July 04, 2013 by The Nation

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Senate in rowdy session over Bill NEWS

•Two senators quarrel

Page 2

Reps probe fake ATM naira notes BUSINESS Page 11

•Report expected in three weeks www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 8, NO. 2536 THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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Military sacks Egypt President Morsi

GYPT’s military last night deposed President Mohammed Morsi, the country’s first democratically elected president. They installed Adly Mansour, the head of the country’s highest court, as an interim leader, replacing Morsi, who swept into office in an election organised by the military last year after a popular uprising ousted long-standing President Hosni Mubarak. Head of Egypt’s armed forces Gen. AbdelFatah El-Sisi said the military was fulfilling its “historic responsibility” to protect the country by ousting Morsi. the Western-educated Islamist leader elected a year ago. Morsi “did not achieve the goals of the people” and failed to meet demands to share power with opponents who thronged the streets of Cairo and Tahrir Square, Gen. ElSisi said. Those crowds erupted as the announcement was made on Egyptian television shortly after 9 p.m. Ahead of the statement, troops moved into key positions around the capital, closing off a bridge over the Nile River and surrounding a demonstration by Morsi’s supporters in a Cairo suburb. El-Sisi said the country’s Constitution had

Continued on page 2

•Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu speaking during a meeting of the ACN leadership with Ekiti stakeholders of the party in Ado-Ekiti... yesterday. Listening are: ACN National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande (third left), Governor Kayode Fayemi (second left) Deputy Governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu(left) and Fayemi’s wife, Erelu Bisi.

Fayemi gets party’s second term nod •Page 8

Okonjo-Iweala seizes N100b constituency cash •SEE ALSO PAGE 11

Action stirs lawmakers’ anger Aide: we’ve no problem with money

AWMAKERS are angry with Finance Minister Ngozi OkonjoIweala over the non-release of the N100billion constituency projects vote, it was learnt yesterday. They have also resolved not to effect any amendment

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

to the 2013 budget, unless the votes are released. Besides, members of the National Assembly are unhappy with President Goodluck Jonathan for giving an unconstitutional role of Co-ordinat-

ing Minister of the Economy to the minister. They alleged that the role has made every decision, especially the release of funds, to go through Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala’s table. But, a source close to the minister denied last night

Slain Ibadan traders lost N22m, says leader

HE 10 Ibadan traders who were killed by Boko Haram sect members in Monguno, Borno State, last Friday night lost N22million cash to their attackers, it was announced yesterday. All was gloomy on Tuesday when the bodies of the Bodija market apprentice beans sellers, who went to buy their goods in Borno – the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency – were brought back home. The secretary of the Bodija Market Food Sellers Association, Mr Sola

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

Faribido, told reporters that the money belonged to seven of the 20 traders who contributed cash for the purchase of beans, which they would have brought back for sale in Ibadan. He said the traders put the money in a bank in Ibadan, withdrew it in Borno State and headed for the village where they were to buy the beans. Faribido regretted that they were attacked, the money taken away Continued on page 2

that she was holding back funds for constituency projects. Although constituency projects are to be executed by the Ministry of Special Duties, the legislators are unhappy that the first and second quarter allocations for the projects

have not been released. According to a source, who pleaded not to be named because he is not directed to talk to the media, the minister has been withholding the funds as a precondition for fast-tracking the amendment to the 2013 budget.

The source said: “We are all angry that after bending backwards to pass the 2013 budget, the minister has refused to release the votes for constituency projects. “She knows we are passionate about constituency Continued on page 2 •From left: Mr. Oscar Onyema, CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Aigboje AigImoukhuede, Group Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank; Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President, NSE and Dangote Group; and Herbert Wigwe, Group Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank at the presentation of the bank’s five years Strategy ( 2013 – 2017) and announcement of a succession plan at the Exchange in Lagos...yesterday. Wigwe was announced as the GMD/CEO-designate at the gathering.

•EKSU COURSES ACCREDITED P8 •IJAW GROUP: WE KILLED ITSEKIRI P58

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS Okonjo-Iweala seizes N100b constituency projects cash Continued from page 1

•President Goodluck Jonathan inspecting some of the products displayed by the first beneficiaries of the Youth Enterprise with Innovation In Nigeria (YOUWIN) Programme at the State House, Abuja yesterday...with him are: Vice President Namadi Sambo (right); Secretary PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN to the Federal Government Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (in red cap) and others.

Amaechi versus Mbu: Reps probe Rivers security crisis

HE House of Representatives is disturbed by the degenerating security situation in Rivers State, following the face-off between Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Commissioner of Police Mbu Joseph Mbu. The House, also yesterday named a 14-man ad hoc Committee to investigate oil theft . The lawmakers mandated House Committees on Police Affairs and Justice to liaise with the Police Affairs Commission, the Inspector General of Police(IGP) and the Rivers State Government to fashion out ways of improving the working relationship between the Rivers

From Victor Oluwaseguna and Dele Anofi, Abuja

State Police and the state government. They are to report back to the House within one week. Peter Edeh (ANPP, Ebonyi), who raised the motion as a matter of urgent public importance, said: “The motion was meant to find means of guaranteeing safety of the people of the state based on the prevailing circumstances because a former militant has raised the alarm that there is a build- up of arms in the state. “This is not good for the state because both the governor and the police chief can guarantee their own safety but the safety of the masses is not guaranteed.”

Edeh reeled out instances of altercations between the two whereby the governor dared the police chief to shoot him while the Police chief labelled the governor dictator. “Those statements have shown that the working relationship has completely broken down between the two. “Meanwhile, Section 14 (l)b of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) empowers the governor to give directives to the Police Commissioner, but in this instance, the question is, ‘has the governor given such directive?’ We don’t know,” Edeh added. He noted that it is more worrisome that Inspector-General of

Police Mohammed Abubakar has so far refrained from addressing this matter or commenting on it publicly. The lawmaker noted that on the basis of the prevailing circumstances, the legislators’ intervention became imperative. Edeh said: “We need to intervene if we want Rivers State to be safe and the people sleep with their two eyes closed”. Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, who presided, put the motion to voice vote and it was unanimously carried. Ihedioha announced the 14member ad hoc committee on the investigation of oil theft with Continued on page 60

Slain Ibadan traders lost N22m, says leader Continued from page 1

from them before they were killed. There were two survivors of the attack.

He was convinced that the murdered traders were followed from the bank after a possible tip off from banker informants. Faribido said many of the traders, who lost money are now in debt, having obtained bank and cooperative loans. Recalling what happened, the market leader said: “We heard that our traders were murdered by Boko Haram on Friday. It

happened around 3pm on Friday. We were calling their numbers without reply, until two of the survivors showed up to confirm that the others have been killed. “It happened initially on May 5. We thought the security measure taken would assist us by not sending majority of the traders to the North but see what happened again.” “The effect of this is that prices would go up. The price is now N500. We are traders and we are deeply involved. Those in that

line would have to diversify.” The mood in the market yesterday was still sober. One of the beans merchants, whose three apprentices were murdered, Alhaji Musa Owolabi, aka 77 Elewa, said his losses were unquantifiable. Owolabi said: “What can I say now? My boys (Nurudeen Lawal, Ninalowo Saheed and Femi Oyetunde) were among those murdered by the Boko Haram. Whenever we need to buy goods for sale, some of us would gather money and ask a few people

to buy for us. That was what happened last week. “We learnt that on Friday, shortly after the Jumat, our colleagues who travelled were intercepted and killed. The cash on them was taken away. Now, their family members are mourning. We don’t know how to console them. It is not the money that matters now.” Opeyemi Adegboyega, a sister to Seye Adegboyega, one of the slain traders, told our reporter on the telephone that she Continued on page 60

projects, but she has tied the release of funds for these projects to amendment to 2013 budget. “We are already in July; the Minister has not approved the release of first and second quarters budgetary allocations for constituency projects.” Responding to a question, the source said: “What we did this year in terms of constituency projects is to identify what 109 Senatorial districts and 360 Federal constituencies need and we passed these projects to the Executive for implementation.” The projects are expected to be implemented by the Ministry of Special Duties. The lawmakers have nothing to do with either the award of contracts for the projects or the choice of contractors, it was learnt. A senator spoke of how members of the National Assembly have been inundated with complaints about the delay in releasing funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). “The system is just unnecessarily being slowed down,” he said, also asking for anonymity. According to a principal officer of the National Assembly, the lawmakers have decided to shun the amendment to the 2013 budget, unless the minister releases funds to the Ministry of Special Duties for constituency projects. “These projects have direct bearing on Nigerians, but funds are not being released as budgeted for. No member of the National Assembly is happy be-

cause we need concrete and people-oriented projects to justify our election,” the officer said, adding: “These are projects the Executive never thought of but which are essential to Nigerians. None of the funds is coming into our pockets because the Executive will implement the projects.” A source at the Ministry of Finance, however, told The Nation yesterday that the issue of N100bn Constituency Ptoject Fund has been a tradition under the Yar’Adua administration and it has continued with the Jonathan tenure. He said the fund has been released and that it is under the supervision of a minister who oversees the implementation of the projects. The source said the dispute over the budget has to do with the N72bn that was removed from the budget, noting that this could result in the inability to pay certain category of civil servants by Spetember, if the money is not returned to the budget. He said: “That is not true. We have no problem with the N100bn set aside for Constituency Projects because that has been the tradition since the Yar’Adua administration. I believe that money has been released even if we may have some issues about implementation. You should be aware that a minister is in charge of that fund and the projects. The Minister of Finance has no problem with the release of the fund at all”

Military sacks Egypt President Morsi Continued from page 1

been suspended and new parliamentary elections would be held. Mansour, the news Head of State is the head of the country’s Supreme Constitutional Court. At the final hour, Morsi offered to form an interim coalition government “that would manage the upcoming parliamentary electoral process, and the formation of an independent committee for constitutional amendments to submit to the upcoming parliament,” he said in a posting on his Facebook page. He noted that hundreds of thousands of supporters and protesters had packed plazas around the country, and he urged that his countrymen be allowed to express their opinions through the ballot box.

“One of the mistakes I cannot accept — as the president of all Egyptians — is to side with one party over another, or to present the scene from one side only. To be fair, we need to listen to the voice of people in all squares,” the statement read. Morsi, a U.S.-educated religious conservative, was elected president in June 2012. But his approval ratings have plummeted as his government has failed to keep order or revive Egypt’s economy. The chaos, including open sexual assaults on women in Egypt’s streets, has driven away tourists and investors, while opponents say Morsi’s rule was increasingly authoritarian. As the troops fanned out Wednesday evening, Morsi was Continued on page 60

Senate in rowdy session over State of the Nation Address Bill

ENATE President David Mark intervened yesterday to stop a breakdown of law and order in the Senate. The upper chamber was thrown into confusion for over 35 minutes due to sharp disagreement over the consideration of the State of the Nation Address Bill 2013. Mark laboured to calm frayed nerves as two senators attempted to go for each other’s jugular. Senator Kabir Garba Marafa (Zamfara Central) and Senator Paulinus Igwe Nwagu (Ebonyi Central) attempted to throw punches at each other. Other senators quickly stopped them. As Marafa attempted to pull off his agbada in preparation for a brawl, other senators moved swiftly to stop him from the unparliamentary action. Nwagu was murmuring as he walked away. Tempers continued to rise as senators formed groups to decide what to do with the amendments suggested by President Goodluck Jonathan on the controversial bill. Mark, who was apparently taken aback, said: “We will solve all the problems by talking, not by boxing.

From Onyedi Ojiabor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja “In any case, for the first time in 14 years, I have seen an effort for people to pull out boxing gloves. That is not necessary, we must never do it. We are distinguished Senators and we are statesmen. We can do all the talking but we should never resort to boxing. “I want to appeal once more that we should suspend the debate on this bill for today, if for nothing else because of the way tempers have risen. We are all on the same wave length and we will do what is best for this country. We don’t need to fight to do it. “I think on this subject matter we are all on the same wave length. “Please, I want to appeal to you that we suspend the debate on the subject.” President Jonathan returned the State of the Nation Address Bill 2013 passed by the National Assembly and requested that some amendments be made on the bill to enable him assent to it. Jonathan described certain provisions of the bill as incon-

sistent with the doctrine of separation of powers and the letter and spirit of the Constitution. Many senators wanted the Senate to override the Presidential objections, but others said the upper chamber had no such power since the letter the President sent to the National Assembly did not say that he withheld assent to the bill. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) traced the origin of the bill and posited that contrary to the President’s position, the National Assembly has never passed a bill that is inconsistent with the constitution. He said the State of the Nation Address Bill 2013 did not in any way contradict the Constitution. Ningi added that Bill was an attempt to deepen democracy and make leaders responsible and accountable. He said: “The letter from Mr. President has no basis; it has no merit. It should be returned to him for assent or to reject it and when he rejects it we will override the President, for the first time.” Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, said the Senate had never had the situation where the President returned a

bill passed by the National Assembly with a comment. In his view, there are three options for the President when a bill is passed by the two chambers. One option is for the President to accept and assent to the bill; the second is for the President to return it and request for amendment. The third option is for the President to withhold assent and return the bill. He suggested that the bill should be referred to the conference committee of the two chambers to advice whether to accept the requests of the President or to override the President. Senator Smart Adeyemi (Kogi West) said the President is not against the spirit of the bill. Adeyemi noted that if the President proposed amendments, it is left for the Senate to either consider the proposals or override the President. He added that Jonathan simply articulated challenges to his office. “As democrats, we should consider what the President sent to us,” Adeyemi said. To Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the President is not against the bill; he merely pointed out salient constitutional issues the

Senate should consider. He noted that the law will be null and void if certain provisions of the bill are inconsistent with the constitution. Mark cautioned that since what the Senate wanted to do is important, efforts must be made to get it right. Senator Ahmed Lawan said the bill aimed to give the President opportunity to talk to the people. He noted that Jonathan had shown that he was not interested in the bill. The only option open to the Senate, he said, is to override the President. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe said that the question before the Senate was to answer whether the bill is inconsistent with Section 67 of the Constitution. Abaribe recalled that the President recently gave a mid-term address. He asked: “What is the difference between what the bill is asking and the mid-term address given by Mr. President?” He noted that Jonathan could as well have called the mid-term address State of the Nation Address. Abaribe said that there was a

•Mark

window for the Senate to consider what the President proposed. But Senator Ganiyu Solomon Continued on page 60

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THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS

Fed Govt’s

•From left: Managing Director, Solution Business Services Nigeria Ltd Mr Shuaibu Gwada; Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria Ashraf Salama and President, Nigeria-Egypt Business Council Mohammed Lere, at the 1st Nigeria-Egypt Business forum in Abuja...yesterday.

• President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Goodie Ibru presenting a gift to the Ambassador of Finland to Nigeria Riitta Korpivaara when she visited him...yesterday.

•From left: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance Mr Danladi Kifasi; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Martin Uhomoibhi and Acting Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Alhaji Kabiru Mashi, at a workshop for local staff of Embassies in Abuja ...yesterday.

•Managing Director, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) Dr. Dayo Mobereola presenting a souvenir to the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Salaudeen Oyefusi when the LAMATA boss visited the monarch in Ikorodu...yesterday. With them is the monarch's wife Olori Muyibat.

Terrorism and oil theft are problems the country’s security forces have had tough time combating. News Agency of Nigeria’s Ifeanyi Nwoko examines the war against these ‘monsters’.

•A worker at an illegal refinery camp inspecting refinery equipment as smoke emerged from behind drums, near the Nun River in Bayelsa.

T is evident that the wave of insecurity and terrorism in Nigeria has gone down considerably in recent times but the citizens, particularly those in the northern part, still worry if it is “peace at last’’. In the words of Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS): “Nigeria is winning the war against terrorism. When I remark that we are winning the war on terrorism, I recall the statement of a Chinese General, Sunzu, which says `if you know yourself, if you know the enemy; then, you can fight a thousand wars. “Winning the war starts from inhouse, 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 dealing with people who disguise themselves as civilians,’’ he said. Ihejirika said the military had made tremendous achievements in efforts to make the country safe, adding, however, that a lot still had to be done. Expatiating further on the military operation, the Minister of State for Defence, Mrs Olusola Obada, said efforts to promote the country’s security must necessarily include strategies aimed at ensuring that neighbouring nations were also safe to forestall any spillovers. Speaking at the ongoing Ministerial Platform in Abuja to showcase the achievements of President Goodluck Jonathan administration in the last two years, she said as part of efforts to ensure the security of neighbouring countries, about 5,000 Nigerian soldiers were serving in various UN peace keeping missions in Africa and other continents. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria are participating in nine United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions within and outside Africa. About 5,000 officers and men, including military hardware, were deployed to various missions in the period under review. “In November 2012, 186 personnel were deployed to Guinea Bissau as part of the ECOWAS military intervention force to restore normalcy to the troubled West African country. “Nigeria still remains an active player in both regional and world peace efforts,” she added. Mrs. Obada said Nigeria deployed a reinforced infantry battalion to Mali on January 17, following the UN Security Council Resolution 2085, which approved the formation of the Africa-led International Support Mission in Mali. She said the ministry had carried out repairs and upgrade of the Contingent Owned Equipment (COE) in Darfur, Sudan, while

carrying out pre-deployment training for soldiers at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre in Jaji. The ministry, she added, had also acquired Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) for the country’s troops in Dafur and Liberia, while producing national cost data for peace support operations. The minister stressed that the importance of the armed forces’ training could never be overemphasised, adding that this explained the rationale behind sustained efforts to professionalise, train and re-train the soldiers. Obada said the military had always been fighting for the country’s unity, peace and oneness. “The Army is doing its very best as our officers and men are among the very best in the world; there is no doubt about it because they are well-trained and they are on top of their work,” she said. As part of efforts to curb oil theft and protect oil installations, the minister said the Joint Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta was instrumental to the destruction of 3,778 illegal refineries in the area in the last one year. Mrs. Obada noted that there had been enhanced protection of oil and gas facilities through the increase of air and ground patrols of pipeline networks to deter vandals from carrying out their destructive activities. “While criminality in the industry has not been completely eliminated, efforts of the JTF had reduced the level of crude oil theft drastically within the period under review. “One hundred and twenty barges, 878 Cotonou boats, 161 tanker trucks, 178 illegal fuel dumps and 5,238 surface tanks were destroyed by the JTF,” she said. Moreover, the minister said within the last one year, the task force also destroyed some militant camps at Oron in Akwa Ibom, as well as Ikang and Ferukpakame in Cross River. Troops, she said, were deployed to mount surveillance on the most critical oil platforms on a 24-hour basis to enhance their security. In the area of internal security, the minister said following President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration of a state of emergency in three northern states, “Operation BOYANA’’ was launched to curtail the excesses of the Boko Haram insurgents. She said the operation had been successful, as the insurgents were dislodged from their strongholds. Obada said the restoration of normalcy and the operations of the JTF had made Maiduguri and its

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS

battle against terrorists, oil thieves

•A boat driver driving past an illegal refinery along the Nun River t. PHOTOS: TRANSTERRA MEDIA

•An illegal refinery worker pumping water into the distilling equipment used to refine the stolen crude oil.

environs unbearable for the miscreants. She highlighted some successes achieved in the military operation as the destruction of some Identified Improvised Explosives (IEDS) and their production factories as well as the recovery of large caches of arms, ammunition and explosives. The minister said the JTF had also monitored and controlled the influx of illegal immigrants into Borno State, while facilitating the repatriation of some aliens. As part of efforts to promote staff welfare and set the pace for other ministries to follow, the defence ministry had also placed 25, 000 HIV-positive personnel and civilians on retroviral therapy in the last one year. She said the intervention was carried out under the Ministry of Defence HIV and AIDS Programme. Mrs. Obada said Nigeria had also strengthened its relations with Japan in the area of defence. Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Mr Mohammed Adoke (SAN) said 75 terrorism cases were treated in the last two years. He said 16 of the cases had been concluded with eight convictions, while 35 cases were struck out. “During the period under review, a total number of 75 cases of terrorism and Boko Haram insurgency were received and prosecuted. “Sixteen of the cases have been concluded with eight convictions, while 35 were struck out. “A good number of the terrorism cases were struck out because the accused persons escaped during

Weighing the war, amnesty for insurgents

S the Nigerian government battles Boko Haram insurgents in the northeast, officials are also grappling with how to end the fighting and what to do with the rebels once peace is restored. New Yorkbased Human Rights Watch says when the battle is done there will be no peace without justice. But some Nigerian leaders say the battles will never end without compromise. How to stop Boko Haram insurgents from killing people has become a national debate in Nigeria. The most common answers are: crush them with military might or, find out why they are killing people and negotiate a peace deal. The Federal Government is currently trying both approaches. Three northeastern states have been locked down in a state of emergency for more than six weeks now and thousands of troops have been deployed. Meanwhile a presidentially appointed committee is trying to get Boko Haram leaders to come out of the shadows and talk. “Constructive discussion that will lead to dialogue. Dialogue that will lead to peaceful resolution of the security challenges in the north,” said Amnesty Committee Chair Kabiru Tanimu Turaki explaining how the process will work. “And which will also lead not only to disarmament but de-radicalisation of a large chunk of the members of the movement who have unfortunately been radicalized attacks on prisons in Bauchi and Maiduguri,'' he added. Also speaking on the same platform, the Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku, whose ministry oversees the Ministerial Platform, said that the ministry had been able to spur other ministries to attain the development goals of the Jonathanadministration. He stressed that the ministry’s efforts to redefine the national information framework had

on ideologies that cannot be said to be straight.” HRW said more than 3,600 people have been killed since 2009 in attacks by Boko Haram, clashes, and extra-judicial killings by security forces. In a letter to Turaki published Tuesday, Human Rights Watch urged him to “reject amnesty for atrocities” and exclude anyone responsible for “crimes against humanity” from any amnesty deal. The group said if Nigeria fails to prosecute those who they believe have violated international law, the International Criminal Court has the authority to do so. But before anyone can be punished, or given amnesty, whoever is responsible for the Boko Haram carnage has to be caught or come to the table. And they don’t appear to be interested. On the other hand, in Nigeria “amnesty” is sometimes considered code for a pot of gold and could attract a lot of interest from low-level Boko Haram soldiers in a region where most people live in abject poverty. After years of fighting the government and oil companies in the southern Niger Delta region, tens of thousands of ex-militants still get roughly $350 a month after turning in their weapons in 2009. Some of their leaders are reported to be getting much more. •Culled from VOA

strengthened the governance process in Nigeria. He said the ministry, in consultation with important stakeholders, had in the last two years redesigned the nation’s information strategy, with a view to involving the people in the governance process. Maku said the Ministerial Platform and the National Good Governance Tour (NGGT) were products of the new approach to information dissemination about

governance in the country. “In the last two years, we have redefined the mandate of the Ministry of Information. It is to lead the management of the image and reputation of the people and government of Nigeria through a professional and dynamic public information system that facilitates access by citizens and the global community to credible and timely information about Nigeria. “The ministerial platform, this is the second edition, has shown

•Adoke clearly that in this country, we can do things differently; and by designing this platform, I believe that we have started something that will be difficult to be stopped by any government in the future. “Now, companies are saying that they will like to advertise on the platform because they want to reach audiences and because of the level of participation. “We will consider the proposal in the next edition of the ministerial platform; we will introduce private sector adverts,” he said. Observers laud the defence and information ministries for their feats in the nation-building efforts but they urge them to strive harder in efforts to transform Nigeria into one of the developed countries of the world.

Boko Haram: Rights group protests engagement of ‘civilian JTF’ in Borno

HE Human Rights Monitor (HRM) has asked the Joint Task Force in the Northeast to disarm the volunteers assisting the military to arrest fleeing Boko Haram members. The volunteers, who are called “civilian JTF”, have been combing Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. The rights group, in a statement by its Executive Director, Mr Festus Okoye, warned security agencies against abdicating their responsibility to a band of youth. The statement said: “The Joint Task Force providing security in the North east and Northwest geopolitical Zones of Nigeria have apparently handed over part of their responsibilities to those they now refer to as “civilian JTF”. “The sad fact is that the Joint Task Force does not know the background of some of these youths. The

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

JTF does not know the communities where some of them reside and their political and religious affiliation. The Joint Task Force has no data of their previous and current activities. “Arming and encouraging youths from diverse backgrounds to take up arms and weapons in an unregulated manner to block roads, make arrests, beat up suspects, kill those “found guilty” and burn their houses and chase them out of town is dangerous to the rule of law and the current efforts aimed at tackling security challenges in Nigeria. “Ordinarily, the Nigerian Police Force is constitutionally and legally empowered to maintain law and order and protect lives and properties of the people. The military are

only called in to assist civil authorities when civilian authorities are overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenges. “ The group expressed fears that some of these gangs may bond together and threaten security and welfare of the citizens. The statement added: “While it is important for civilians to assist security agencies with useful information that may lead to the arrest of those who break the law and threaten the security of the citizens, it is equally dangerous to arm them and allow them to take over the streets in a manner that breeds fear and anxiety on the citizens. “The truth of the matter is that this version of civilian JTF roaming round the street of Borno and Yobe States are not people previously known to security agencies as law abiding citizens.

“The fear is that some of these gangs roaming the streets as civilian JTF may bond together and become a formidable force for purposes that may be inimical to the security and welfare of the citizens. The experience of the Niger Delta militants and the present insurgents that have become difficult to uproot is enough precedent for the Nigerian people to learn from. “We are of the opinion that the Commander of the Joint Task Force must disarm this civilian JTF as their continued operation under official cover gives the impression that the security agencies have abandoned their responsibilities to an unregulated army of untrained persons with no visible means of livelihood and no permanent abode. “The civilian JTF is not trained in the art of handling weapons and

law enforcement and have no idea of rules of engagement in the fight against insurgents and should not be allowed and or used to violate the fundamental rights of the people. “Arming the so-called civilian JTF in an unregulated manner may assist them bond together and they may later become a problem and a challenge to the society since they are armed and dangerous. “Civilians should be encouraged to be vigilant and supply honest information to the security agencies but should not be allowed to carry arms and terrorise persons. “The security agencies must continue their efforts at protecting the lives and the properties of law abiding citizens in a manner consistent with Nigeria’s regional and international human rights obligations.”

THE NATION THURSDAY JULY 4, 2013

NEWS

‘What education means to Jonathan’ MINISTER of State for Education Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has declared that President Goodluck Jonathan appreciates the importance of education at resolving the poverty and health challenges facing Nigerians. He said the President has created an enabling environment for privileged Nigerians to support his administration’s investments to ensure less privileged Nigerians access quality basic education. The minister spoke yesterday while kicking off the distribution of 52,000 school bags donated by a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed for primary school pupils in Adamawa State. He said the instructional materials were vital for pupils to have effective education experience. He said: “Education is a socio-economic liberator and indeed an indispensable weapon against all socio-cultural and political challenges of any nation, particularly a developing nation like ours. “You will agree with me that what we put into our children will determine what kind of adults they become. Therefore, all hands must be on deck to ensure that they get the very best if our collective future is to be bright and fruitful”.

SSS DG risks contempt charge From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

A FEDERAL High Court sitting in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital has threatened to charge the DirectorGeneral of the State Security Service (SSS) for contempt of court over the non release of the 50-year old leader of an alleged Iranian sponsored terrorist group, Abdullahi Berende. The SSS, early this year paraded Berende and named two others, Saheed Adewunmi and Sulaiman Saka as members of the terrorist cell being handled by Iranians to spy on Israel and American interests in the country. The fourth person, Bunyamin Yusuf is said to be at large.

Fed Govt approves purchase of 17,000 voter card readers for 2015 elections

O check multiple voting, the Federal Government yesterday approved the procurement of 17,000 voter card readers at N459million for the 2015 general elections and subsequent ones. Information Minister Labaran Maku told State House correspondents at the end of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan. Maku, who attended the briefing with the Minister of Youth Development, Abdukadir Inuwa, said the Council gave the approval based on the proposal submitted by the Independent

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

National Electoral Commission (INEC) to FEC. He said two additional batches would be purchased to cover the country, adding that the first batch–17,000 smartcard readers would be acquired in the next six months. He said: “In its desire to ensure free, fair and credible elections, the INEC is to procure, customise and configure 17,000 smart card readers that will be deployed during elections for voters authentication.” “The Smart Card Readers will be used to verify the

rightful owner of the voter card presented for identification during elections.” “In order to show the commitment of our administration to free, fair, and credible elections, Council approved the procurement of 17,000 smart card readers in favour of Zinox Technologies Ltd at the rate of N27,000 in the sum of N459 million with a completion period of six months,”Maku said. Giving highlights of his Ministry’s last year performance as presented to FEC, Youths Minister Abdulkadir Inuwa said his ministry executed a lot of programmes last year and particularly trained 700 youths within the

period. Stressing that the Ministry focused on creating opportunities for self-employment for youths last year, he said that there were specific moves to encourage the youths embrace agriculture. “We also used the NYSC Scheme to conduct training for the youths on agriculture. Grants, in a number of cases, were given to the youths who have gone far in operating their businesses. Also last year, we introduced the value re-orientation programme to make the youths rediscover themselves and continue to think and act positively,” Inuwa said.

•General Overseer, Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM) Worldwide, Dr. Daniel K. Olukoya cutting the tape to dedicate MFM Olambe Regional Headquarters, Lagos Region 46, at Olambe, in Ogun State...on Tuesday. With him are Acting Assistant Regional Overseer, Olambe Region, Pastor Daniel Akinpinyi

Clark to EFCC: probe petitions against Orubebe and me From Vincent Ikuomola,

Abuja

HE feud between Niger Delta Affairs Minister Godsday Orubebe and Ijaw leader Chief Edwin Clark took a new turn yesterday, with the elderstatesman calling for a probe of the allegations between him and the minister. The elder statesman, in a fresh petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) titled: “Re spurious allegation against Panama Construction Company Limited”, asked the anti- graft agency to as a matter of urgency investigate the allegations against the minister and himself. Clark also said should both petitions not given proper and judicious attention demanded within 30 days of the receipt of the reminder, he shall be left with no option other than to approach the appropriate court to seek an “Order of Mandamus” against the Commission, compelling it to do the needful. 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, claiming that Panama Construction Company Limited (PCCL), in which Chief Clark has an interest allegedly failed in the execution of contracts worth billions of naira after collecting mobilisation fees.

ECOWAS, Singapore record trade growth

Expect 10,000 megawatts next year, says Minister

INISTER of Power Prof Chinedu Nebo has assured Nigerians that power generation would increase to 10,000 megawatts by December 2014. This, according to the minister, would guarantee 18 hours of uninterrupted power supply in every part of the country. Nebo spoke while briefing the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the activities of his ministry at the party’s secretariat on Tuesday. The minister, who was accompanied by the Minister of State for Power, Hajia Zainab Ibrahim Kuchi, lamented what he described as transmission challenges that could lead to system collapse. He said: “We envisage 10,000 megawatts by December 2014. With our short term, long term and immediate strategies that we have in place; in addition to working assiduously with other stakeholders in the power sector, we will get there. “We have the NIPP work going on, and the Niger Delta Power Company coming up for commissioning by December 2013, we look forward to 10, 000 megawatts come De-

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

cember 2014. Nebo went on: “If we succeed in making it more than that, we will be very happy. But we are focused on actually delivering 10,000 megawatts by 2014. And this by our calculations and data we have on ground. “We will give at least between 17 and 18 hours of power supply to Nigerians. The 24 hours power supply will happen but we are working steadily towards that”. The minister said the private sector is expected to inject more funds into the power and participate more in distribution. Also speaking at the forum, the minister of state said the current system collapse was caused by over grown shrubs around transmission areas, adding, however that the problem was being addressed by a technical team put in place by the ministry. The two ministers said that the process in the power sector is a sensitive one because every aspect of the process must be in place before transmission could be meaningful.

INGAPORE has expressed its intention to deepen economic ties with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as trade relations between the Asian country and the West African sub-region surge. Trade between ECOWAS and Singapore has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 10 per cent in the last five years (2008-2012) to reach SGD1.2 billion (GHS1.9 billion). This is responsible for the growth of Singapore’s overseas investments and international trade, the International Enterprise (IE) Singapore, an agency under the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry, has said.

Why Nigeria must stop tomato importation, by CEO

IGERIA will save N11billion and create 55,000 direct and indirect jobs if importation of tomatoes is stopped with immediate effect, the Chief Executive officer of Vegefresh Company Ltd, Mr. Samuel Samuel, has said. Samuel, who described Nigeria’s status as the largest importer of tomatoes as unacceptable and detrimental, said the nation has all it takes to meet local demands and even become a net exporter of the commodity. He explained the nation resorts to importation because the 2.7 million metric tonne per annum local production is largely wasted through lack of local processing

By Sunday Oguntola

and storage facilities. He spoke on Tuesday on the sidelines of a workshop on tomato value chain development in Abuja. The theme of the workshop, organised by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was partnering to build a competitive tomato industry in Nigeria. Samuel said the meagre 70,000 metric tonnes imported to augument local production can be reversed if waste is eliminated through different measures. To address the waste, he said there must be planting of the right varieties of tomatoes and subsidy to enable farmers produce at a cost

that processors can buy. Samuel said “We have no business importing tomatoes at all because we have comparative advantages above other countries producing the commodity in the world. “We must address waste through offering help to farmers for land preparation and extensive services. We can also group farmers together for tomato plantation”. He said if waste is addressed in the industry, Nigeria will be able to produce at least 270,000 metric tonnes. This, Samuel explained, will eliminate the 70,000 metric tonnes imported and leave a balance of 200,000 tonnes for export.

The export, according to him, will earn the nation another whopping N30billion. Samuel said the unemployment challenge in the nation will also be seriously addressed if graduates dare to embrace tomato planting. “With just 10 hectares of land, an average graduate will generate 200 tonnes of the commodity per annum that can be sold at N17, 500 to processors,” he said. This, he added, will translate to N3.5million income in just five months with only a 40-50 percent cost of production. He said China, Italy and Turkey where Nigeria imports tomatoes from can produce the commodity for

a maximum of 30 days as against the 180 days for which the nation can produce the commodity in a year. On strides achieved by Vegefresh, he said the leading tomato- producing firm has been processing the commodity from its Lagos plant while the Bauchi plant will join the train later this year. The chief executive officer of Vegefresh company said the firm will be able to produce 27,000 metric tonnes of tomatoes per annum while another 135,000 metric tonnes will be required to feed its plants. Samuel urged Nigerians to embrace local production, querying the healthy state of most of the imported tomato pastes in the country.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS

ACN slams Presidency on Oguta poll

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has slammed the Presidency for seeking to usurp the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by describing the rerun to the Imo House of Assembly in Oguta as inconclusive. In a statement yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said it was up to INEC to determine whether the election was ‘inconclusive’ or marred by ‘violence and irregularities’, not the Presidency. “To the best of our knowledge, it is either the candidates or the parties involved in an election that can take a legal recourse over any perceived irregularities. It, therefore, baffles us that the Presidency has rushed to declare the election inconclusive and marred by rigging, and to call for the prosecution of those involved, simply because its preferred candidate lost. “According to the information at our disposal, the INEC cancelled the results in eight of the 232 polling booths for one reason or the other. That is less than four per cent of the number of booths; it is definitely not enough to make an election ‘inconclusive’, as the Presidency did by assuming the role of an

‘How concessionaires short-change FAAN’

Why Oguta poll was inconclusive, by INEC THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said last Saturday’s by-election in Oguta, Imo State, was declared inconclusive because of violence and misconduct among politicians. In a statement yesterday by Mr Kayode Idowu, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, the commission said the exercise was marred by violent and unruly conduct by politicians in eight polling units. This forced it to cancel the results, the commission said. “INEC received reports showing that the election witnessed incidents of violence and unruly conduct by partisans, necessitating the cancellation of the election in eight polling units. This cancellation made the election inconclusive. “Field reports showed that even though security agents mobilised appreciably for the exercise, there were cases of violence as well as ballots and result sheets snatching by thugs, as a result of which the election was cancelled,” the statement said. INEC listed the affected polling units as those of PU 001 in Ward 05 (Ndeloukwu/Umuowerre), with 768 registered voters; PU 007 in Ward 03 umpire,” ACN said. The party also accused the Presidency of being selective in its quest for the prosecution of those who rig or engage in violence during elections, wondering where the Presidency was when the last Ondo State governorship election was marred by massive rigging and violence. It said: “Let’s be clear: It is

•Falana: call ministry, agency to order

By Augustine Avwode

(Izombe), with 939 registered voters; PU 009 in Ward 09 (Oru), with 708 registered voters; PU 010 (Ward 09), with 657 registered voters; PU 011 (Ward 09), with 407 registered voters; PU 012 (Ward 09), with 408 registered voters; PU 013 (Ward 09), with 667 registered voters and PU 003 in Ward 02 (Egwe/ Egbuoma), with 212 registered voters. Explaining the reason for cancelling the election in the eight polling units, INEC said: “The total population of registered voters in the polling units affected was over 4,000; whereas the difference between the leading candidate and the next in the collated results was 2,011 votes. The procedure is that where the number of registered voters involved in a cancelled election exceeds the difference in the votes of the two leading candidates in collated results, the election will be declared inconclusive. “It bears pointing out that the present outcome of Oguta constituency election is similar to what happened with the 2011 governorship election in Imo State, which was eventually resolved.”

not the business of the Presidency to pronounce any election inconclusive or marred by violence. That is the business of the INEC. The Presidency is wrong in trying to pre-empt the INEC, simply because the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate lost the election to the Rochas Okorocha faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

“Would the Presidency have raised the alarm if the victor had come from the Peter Obi faction of APGA? Why didn’t the Presidency speak up over the Ondo State governorship election, which was marred by massive violence and rigging? Is it because its favoured candidate won? “We are the undisputed advocate of free and fair elections:

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

•Alhaji Mohammed

one-man, one-vote, and of peaceful conduct of polls. But we will not support selective perception, as the Presidency is now doing. There must be no sacred cows. Whoever perpetrates rigging or violence must be brought to justice, whether or not they belong to the ruling/favoured parties.” ACN said the Presidency was afraid that the outcome of the election in Oguta may be a referendum on the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan and a sign of things to come; which of course it is! “The Presidency should be prepared for more of the drubbing it received in Oguta, because henceforth, that is what will happen to the PDP in subsequent elections. It is a sign of things to come, hence the Presidency is right to be jittery. But what it has no right to do is to usurp the role of the election umpire or assume the role of a political party,” the party added.

•Soldiers rehearsing for this year’s Army Day Celebration in Abuja... yesterday.

ONTESTANTS at the X Factor Boot Camp got a surprise visit from talented singer and multiple award winner, Sammie Okposo, at the weekend. Okposo, who is a Glo Ambassador, visited the camp to assist regular judges - Onyeka Onwenu, MI and Reggie Rockstone - in mentoring and preparing the aspiring singers for the live performances which will soon begin. A statement in Lagos said details of Okposo’s visit and his interaction with the contestants will be shown in the next telecast of X Factor on Saturday on Africa Independent Television (AIT) and SoundCity at 7p.m. and on STV and Channel TV at 8p.m. The statement also said 135 contestants, who made it from the auditions held in Nigeria and Ghana, went into the Boot Camp to fight for a place in the Top 9, who will go into the live performances.

How N1.1b subsidy fraud was committed, by witness

HREE oil marketers Abdullahi Alao, Opeyemi Ajuyah and Olarenwaju Olalusi - were yesterday alleged to have forged the documents with which they committed N1.1 billion fuel subsidy fraud. A prosecution witness, Mr. Mohammed Adedapo, made the allegation when he testified at the resumed trial of the marketers before Justice Lateefat Okunnu of a Lagos State High Court, Ikeja. The marketers and their firms - Axenergy Limited and Majope Investment Limited - were charged to court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged subsidy fraud. Adedapo, who is an inspector of petroleum products of Q and Q Control Marine Services Nigeria Limited, told the court that Alao, the son of Ibadan business

Music act Okposo mentors Glo X Factor contestants

The Shore Tank Certificate, showing 15,000 metric tonnes, was not signed by me. The signature looks like mine but this document did not emanate from Q and Q By Adebisi Onanuga

mogul, Aare Abdulazeez Alao-Arisekola, and other defendants, allegedly obtained subsidy for 15,000 metric tonnes of petroleum products, instead of the 4,000 metric tonnes of petroleum products they imported. The witness said the discharge was done at Lister Jetty, Apapa, Lagos, between January 22 and 23, 2011. Led in evidence by EFCC counsel, Mr Francis Usani, the witness said Q and Q was contracted by Oando Oil and Gas Plc to inspect the quanti-

ty of products brought in by a vessel, MT Brief, on behalf of Majope Investment Limited. Adedapo said the vessel, which brought the petroleum products allegedly discharged only about 4,000 metric tonnes into the facility while it took away the remaining. The witness added that following the discrepancy discovered in the transaction, he wrote a protest letter to the captain of the ship and stated the fact of the transaction. Adedapo said he issued a

Shore Tank Certificate to the marketers, stating that only 4,000 metric tonnes of petroleum products were discharged. Following the testimony, Falana urged him to sign on a blank paper to compare the signatures. They were admitted as Exhibit P6 by the court. Justice Okunnu adjourned the matter till July 24 for the continuation of the trial. During cross-examination by the defendants’ counsel, Mr Wale Akoni (SAN) and Mr Oludare Falana, the witness said he did not sign any document indicating that 15,000 metric tonnes of fuel were discharged. “The Shore Tank Certificate, showing 15,000 metric tonnes, was not signed by me. The signature looks like mine but this document did not emanate from Q and Q,” Adedapo added.

HE Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has said most of the airport concessions agreements signed between the authority and some firms a few years back were packaged by some government officials to liquidate the authority. FAAN, according to its General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr Yakubu Dati, has begun the revocation of some of the concessions to keep its operations afloat. Dati listed the concession agreements skewed the interest of its 34,000 workers to include the Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) pact between it and Bi- Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Terminal Zero and AIC Hotels Limited. FAAN, he said, had to stop the concession agreements, which aimed to kill it and hand it over to individuals who had connections at the Presidency at the time. Lagos lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has urged the Federal Government to call the Ministry of Aviation and the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to order. In a statement in Lagos, the frontline lawyer accused the ministry and agency of flouting the rule of law. The statement reads: “For quite some time now the authorities of the Aviation Ministry and the management of FAAN have shown utter disdain for the rule of law. Apart from breaching valid and subsisting agreements entered into with some corporate bodies, the Aviation Ministry and the FAAN management have consistently resorted to the use of brute force to eject the workers of certain companies from the airports. “I have confirmed the report that both bodies resorted to selfhelp by dislodging the workers of AIC Nigeria Limited, at the Murtala Mouhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, vi et armis in the early hours of Tuesday, July 2, 2013.

Group hails Federal Mortgage Bank

non-governmental organisation (NGO), the National Scorecard Group (NSG), has hailed the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) for good performance in the housing sector. At its quarterly conference, where the group reviewed the activities of the bank, NSG noted that the performance of FMBN, under the leadership of Mr. Gimba Ya’u Kumo, was commendable. A communiqué issued in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, by NSG’s National Coordinator Wole Badmus; National Secretary Eze Obialor and National Publicity Secretary Alli Yussuf, hailed FMBN for providing affordable mortgage financing to low and medium income earners. The NSG said: “The disbursement of over N39 billion, which represented 46.37 per cent of the total approved loan to over 22,246 beneficiaries, is most commendable.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS ‘Supreme Court ‘ll resolve Ondo poll dispute’ From Damisi Ojo, Akure

THE former Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State, Mr. Sola Iji, yesterday urged the citizenry to remain steadfast in their expectations on the governorship election dispute in the state. According to him, the Appeal Court’s verdict is a fundamental shift from that of the lower tribunal, particularly in its admittance that the foundation for that election was manipulated and full of irregularities. He assured that the Supreme Court would make a pronouncement on the credibility or otherwise of an election conducted with a compromised voter register. Iji, a lawyer and Kwara State ACN Caretaker Committee Chairman, said: “The wise men at the hallowed chamber of the Supreme Court will be more interested in setting a good precedent by making unequivocal statement on what should be the fate of an election with manipulated documents.”

Akande, Tinubu endorse Fayemi for second term

HE National Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Bisi Akande and the National Leader of the party, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yesterday endorsed Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi for a second term. They said he is eligible to contest next year’s governorship election. At a well-attended event held at Jibowu Hall, Government House complex, Ado-Ekiti, Chief Akande and Asiwaju Tinubu gave Governor Fayemi “a clean bill of health” as the party’s standard- bearer in the poll. They hailed him for “his sterling performance in the governance of the state.” On the entourage of Tinubu are former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, Chief Dele Alake, National Secretary of the party, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Senator James Kolawole. At the event were Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu, former governor, who is also the Southwest Leader of

•Bamidele cautioned on ambition From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

the All Progressives Congress (APC), Otunba Niyi Adebayo, former governor of the old Ondo State, Evang. Bamidele Olumilua, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Dr. Adewale Omirin and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Yemi Adaramodu. Also present are Senators Babafemi Ojudu (Ekiti Central), Tony Adeniyi (Ekiti South) and Olubunmi Adetumbi (Ekiti North), Ife Arowosoge, commissioners, special assistants, local government chairmen and other party functionaries across the state. Employing anecdotes, proverbs, jokes and illustrations, Tinubu, who spoke for nearly one and a half hours, said the visit was to settle misunderstanding within the party in preparation for the coming election, noting that similar visits would be made to Anambra and Osun states where governorship elections are also

‘If anyone here knows Opeyemi, tell him that Jagaban has sent you to him to drop his ambition. Invite him and appeal to him. We will return later to do official endorsement’ being awaited. Tinubu went on: “We have not come to impose somebody on you. We have come just to settle a quarrel. America would normally say if the bicycle is not faulty, you don’t take it to the repairer. Fayemi has passed; will you promote him or not?” Cautioning Opeyemi Bamidele on his purported plans to contest the 2014 election, Tinubu said: “When we got there (the political headship of the state), why would we not know how to manage our success?

“If anyone here knows Opeyemi, tell him that Jagaban has sent you to him to drop his ambition. Invite him and appeal to him. We will return later to do official endorsement.” He noted: “Koko lo’ju Abe to ba ma fari” (meaning, the knife that will shave must be sharp.) Asiwaju Tinubu urged Fayemi and the party leadership to make amends within the ranks. According to him, “there is no shame in politics, everyone’s turn would come sooner than later.” He urged that measures must be made to reconstitute ward executives, adding that for the administration to succeed, “party patronage must be controlled.” The media has been awash with reports that Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Federal Constituency I, is planning to contest the governorship election next year. It was, however, uncertain under which party he would be doing that. Akande said the task of the ACN was three-pronged, how to merge with other parties without experiencing cultural

Ekiti varsity secures total accreditation From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

EKITI State University has secured total accreditation of its over-70 degree programmes by the National Universities Commission. According to the Deputy Registrar Information, Mr. Ajibade Olubunmi, the programmes, spread in all departments of the institution, were given full accreditation based on the satisfaction of the requisite academic and non- academic criteria. Findings showed that it would be the first time that the university would record such feats, which he attributed to the “revolutionary ideas of the Vice- Chancellor, Prof. Dipo Aina” According to Ajibade, the successful experience with the NUC was the outcome of more stringent measures instituted by the ViceChancellor in terms of the requisite qualification of the lecturers and the other attached conditions. He said: “Our experience has shown that hard work would always attract medals. The medal has simply come from the total accreditation by the NUC.”

Rain sparks pains in Osogbo From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

•Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (right); Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye (third right); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Mrs. Nike Animashaun (second right); General Manager, Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASSRA), Ms. Olayinka Fashola (fourth right); Director for Middle East and Africa (MEA), Yasser Hassan (left) and others during Governor Fashola’s meeting at the Microsoft Headquarters, Dubai... yesterday.

Southwest PDP reconciliation committees submit reports

HE reports of the reconciliation committees set up by the Southwest Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been submitted to the Zonal Caretaker Committee chaired by Chief Ishola Filani. Filani, who confirmed this to reporters in Lagos, said the reports from the six states have been submitted to another review panel, which has submitted a final recommendation to the zonal interim leadership. He said the party set up the panel to enable the aggrieved

By Emmanuel Oladesu, Group Political Editor

chieftains air their grievances, adding that the move has assisted the leadership in conflict management. Filani said: “We have worked hard to identify the areas of conflict in the different state chapters. Towards this end, we have sent visitation panels to the six states in the zone and I am happy to say that not only have the reports been submitted, a review panel has worked on them and submitted its report. We are set to

implement the recommendations. I am confident that when implemented, our party will witness the rebirth, which we badly need.” A PDP source said the committee for Lagos State expressed concern about the disunity in the fold as manifested by the caucuses working at cross-purposes. It added: “The committee suggested that only internal democracy can restore the party to the path of honour and this is what we will employ to elect new executive com-

Mayhem in Ife as suspected PDP thugs attack ACN members S

EVEN members of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) at Yekemi Abata Egba in Ife East Local Government Area of Osun State were yesterday evening hospitalised following attacks on them by thugs suspected to be members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). A source said they have been hospitalised at the Intensive Care Unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University

hiccups, how to position the party for the coming elections in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states and how to unseat the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from national leadership. Said he: “We are going to merge with another party, but is our culture going to change? Three elections are on the way, but how do we prepare for them? The last task is how do we remove the PDP from Abuja? “Our mission today is to set in motion processes to settle our in-house misunderstanding. If any exists, we must settle it to move ahead.” The ACN National Leader described the PDP as “a burden, which Nigerians must eliminate in the 2015 elections for the country to progress. In a parley with reporters at the Government House, Tinubu said the PDP “has failed in justifying its control of the country’s resources for the past 14 years.” Assuring Nigerians that APC would bring the much- awaited hope to the country’s disenchanted citizenry, Tinubu said: “The APC is about change; positive change for this country. “Unless Nigerians are satisfied with punishment, unless Nigerians are satisfied with the level of poverty, unless Nigerians are not angry with the level of unemployed youths in this country, that is the only way they could decide not to change PDP. “But we are determined to oust the PDP. They have been in power for so long and they have not been able to use the power to develop humanity and the Nigerian populace; what a waste.”

•Seven hospitalised

Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife. According to the source, six of those attacked are the ACN Chairman in Ife East, Sunday Omowaiye, Posi Adewoyin, Omole Rebecca, Femi Adesoji, Taofeek Oke and Oyesiji Michael. The name of the seventh victim was yet to be ascertained at press time.

Reports indicated that the ACN members were attacked during a rally organised by the ACN in the area. Thugs reportedly invaded the area, brandishing cutlasses, cudgels and guns, insisting that the rally must be stopped. The source said the insistence of the ACN members to continue the rally led to a fight during which two women were allegedly

stripped and beaten up. Five men were attacked with machetes. Unconfirmed reports said those arrested in connection with the attack were moved to the Ajan Police Station. The Chairman of ACN in Osun State, Elder Adelowo Adebiyi, urged the police to call leaders of the PDP in Ife to order, noting that the state’s peace should not be tampered with because of the governorship ambition of a man.

mittee next time. The committee seems to be impressed by the way the Chairman, Capt.Tunji Shelle (rtd), is managing the affairs of the party, but real power and influence are wielded by the likes of Bode George, Adesheye Ogunlewe and Musiliu Obanikoro. If these three leaders work together in harmony, the party will be repositioned. This is what the committee noted in the report.” In Ekiti State, the committee attributed the crisis in the chapter to the rancorous congress, which led to the emergence of the zonal chairman, Mr. Segun Oni, who has been shoved aside by the national leadership. The committee also acknowledged that the State Executive Committee is not supported by some key leaders, who have an axe to grind with former Governor Ayo Fayose, whose supporters form the bulk of the state officers. According to the sources, the members of the committee also said the chapter is preparing for next year’s governorship election as a divided house. They canvassed consensus candidature, stressing that the move would prevent post-primary crisis.

FOUR-hour rain on Tuesday in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, flooded some parts of the town, forcing residents to abandon their homes. The rain, which began around 5pm and did not stop until after 9pm, caused panic among the residents of Alekuwodo, Ahmadiya, Okefia, OdiOlowo, MDS, Ogo-Oluwa and Sabo. Some abandoned their homes for churches and mosques. A woman identified as Mama Ope at Odi-Olowo Street cried for losing N15,000, which she said was carried away, among other valuables, by the flood. Belongings worth millions of naira were destroyed by the flood, which was said to have been caused by rivers overflowing their banks. At MDS, traders cried as their goods, including bags of cement and flour, were soaked in water. At old Garage, a bulldozer was yesterday at work, demolishing the Rasco Cinema building and other houses constructed on a water channel. The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Osun State has urged the residents to avoid blocking drainages with refuse and prevent floods. Commiserating with the victims, the acting Chairman of ACN, Mr. Adelowo Adebiyi, urged the residents to be prepared for heavy rains this year as predicted by meteorologists. He advised them to cooperate with the government to combat flood.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS Ex-Wema chief for governor

FORMER Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Adebisi Omoyeni, will tomorrow declare his ambition to run for the governorship of Ekiti State next year on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His campaign organisation said yesterday in a statement that the declaration, expected to be attended by Omoyeni’s supporters and kinsmen from Ikere Ekiti, would hold at the PDP Secretariat in Ado-Ekiti at 10am. The statement, signed by Tope Akintade on behalf of the organisation, said Omoyeni’s decision to contest was informed by his conviction that Ekiti State indigenes deserved more dividends of democracy than they got since the state was created in 1996.

Police parade 12 students, trader for cultism

HE police in Ekiti State yesterday paraded 13 persons, 12 of who were said to be students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, for alleged robbery and cultism. Two of them were also alleged to have earlier robbed a trader in the state of an undisclosed amount of money. Parading the suspects in AdoEkiti, the Area Commander, Mr. Yomi Akinlaja (Assistant

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado Ekiti

Commissioner of Police), who represented the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Sotonye Wakama, said a tip-off led to their arrest. Said he: “12 male and one female suspects were arrested following a tip-off that the dreaded Eiye Confraternity was meeting somewhere in Ado Ekiti.

“The principal suspect is Kolawole Oluwaseun, 24, who is the second-in-command of the group. One Martins, who was the man in charge of the group, was discovered to have been expelled from the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti and Oluwaseun was second-incommand and currently in charge.” The other suspects, according to him, include “Femi Osho, 25;

Damilola Omotiloye, 24; Olanrewaju Sunday, 22; Tunde Jimoh, 18; Asaolu Juliana, 50; Adekanye Sola, 23; Ogunmoroti Temitope, 22; Aluko Kehinde, 39; Omoniyi Richard, 22; Martins Chukwumezie, 20; Falaye Omobolanle, 21; and Ajayi Peter, 24. He said items, including a sledge hammer, a stainless steel knife, five short cutlasses, one

Fayemi, Babalola for conference

Lagos Speaker hails media By Oziegbe Okoeki

AGOS State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji has described the media as a key to legislative business. He said it is through the dissemination of information that the public know what the legislature is doing. Ikuforiji spoke yesterday when he opened the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) Week of the Lagos Television (LTV 8) chapter. Members of the chapter led by the Chairman, Mr. Segun Onafowokan, visited the assembly, donning branded T-shirts and dancing. They said the purpose of the visit was to inform the Speaker that an award, tagged: ‘The Most Peaceful and Proactive Legislative House in Nigeria’, would be formally presented to him tomorrow. LOSS OF ORIGINAL DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public that the original right of Occupancy Land certificate of a Landed Property and Acknowledgement of Regularisation of Land titles of FCT Area Councils for OYEZ CRYSTALS LTD in respect of Plot Number MF600A Cadastral Zone – in Army Post Service Housing Scheme Kurudu Layout of Abuja Municipal Area Council are missing. This is required for record purpose. The general public should please take note.

UTC axe, charms, red muffler, beret, canvas shoes and blue beret, laptops, DVD player and one small hammer were recovered from the suspects. Akinlaja went on: “They were arrested on June 27. Two of them had earlier robbed a trader in the town. “Investigations are on. The suspects will be charged to court when we conclude our investigations.”

•From left: Mr. Sola Adeeyo, son of the deceased, Governor Aregbesola, Governor Amosun and Gboyega Adeeyo, another son of the deceased, at the funeral... yesterday.

Arisekola, Amosun, others honour Adeeyo

OVERNORS Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) and Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) yesterday paid glowing tributes to the late Alhaji Suleiman Ajasa Adeeyo, who was interred yesterday . Alhaji Adeeyo died on Tuesday after a brief illness. He was 79 . Guests were at the Inalende , Ibadan home of the Adeeyos where prayers were offered for the repose of the soul of the deceased before the body left for the cemetery at the Ultimate Private Cemetery, opposite Yanaty Flour Mills, Sanyo, along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The remains of Alhaji Adeeyo were interred at 3.15pm. Before the interment, prayers were offered by Shiek Abdulraheed Lawal, the Chief Imam of Railway Central Mosque . He urged all to reflect on the good deeds of the late Adeeyo and how he devoted his life to the service of Allah. He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant him allejanah. Present on the occasion were the Aare Musulumi of

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

Yorubaland, Alhaji Azeez Arisekola Alao, Governors Ibikunle Amosun ( Ogun), Rauf Aregbesola ( Osun) and Abiola Ajimobi( Oyo), who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Deolu Akande, the Chairman , Vintage Press, Mr. Wale Edun, former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarunmi, Chief Lekan Alabi, the Founder, Guarantee Trust Bank, Mr. Fola Adeola, Dr Segun Oshin, former governorship aspirant in Lagos State Mr. Jimi Agbaje, among other dignitaries. Governor Amosun described the late Adeeyo as a father and a mentor . He said: “We are not happy that he is leaving us so soon, not that he is not old enough, but for us, we would have loved him to be with us longer

than this . But it is the Almighty Allah that gives and takes at anytime. The most important thing is even if it is a few years that you live in life, it is how you live that matters. This is a man that lived very well and everybody noted it yesterday. We will miss his prayers, we will miss his advice and his love and warmth. Definitely we will miss him, the gap will be there. We will continue to pray that may the Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest”. Agbaje said Alhaji Adeeyo left enduring legacy that would live forever. “Like I just said, today’s event speaks volume . When a man dies at a ripe age , he leaves a legacy . So, today what we do is to honour the man. But we don’t honour him alone, we also honour his legacy in his children because when the children are good you will see and

when you look around, you see the friends that are here. It is all part of the honour that you give, not just to the old man but to those he has left behind. I think the man lived a good life and he has left a good legacy. “The greatest contribution a man makes is in those that succeed him. It’s not the material things alone, people are blessed in different ways. If you are blessed materially, you live materially, but there is something that we owe and that is to those that we bring to this world and that is we give them enduring legacy and that is value system . I think that is where I will say that Baba has done very well when you look at his children. He has brought them up well. They stand for principle, they stand for honesty and they stand for integrity. These are things that are needed in life,” he said.

Student found dead in river

HERE was confusion on Monday at Aganyan village in Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State, as the body of a young boy was found inside a river. The deceased, Tosin Ajheigbe Atikekeresola, an indigene of Ilesa in Osun

From Bode Durojaiye, Oyo

State, was, until his death, an external candidate of the National Examinations Council (NECO), who lived with one of his colleagues in the village. The Nation learnt that Tosin and his colleagues went to

the river to fetch water , but he got drowned. Our source said immediately the incident occurred, Tosin’s colleagues ran away. The villagers expressed shock and disbelief at the incident. Police have begun investigation into the matter.

Amosun inspects Ijebu-Ode flyovers

GUN State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun yesterday inspected the flyovers under construction in Ijebu-Ode and urged the construction firm to redouble efforts to complete the projects in time. Two flyovers are under construction in IjebuOde. They are at Mobalufon junction, over the ever-busy Sagamu-Benin road and at Bobasua roundabout at Lagos garage. When completed, the Mobalufon bridge will curb carnage on the expressway as motorists going to Ijebu-Ode will use the flyover instead of risking head-on collision with truck and luxury bus drivers coming from the Benin end of the expressway. The flyover descends into the six-lane international standard Mobalufon-Folagbade-Imepe-

Ibadan road being constructed by the Amosun administration. Commuters on the Ondo-Benin road will not experience traffic gridlock at Bobasua/Lagos garage as another flyover is being constructed at the T-junction. Amosun promised Ijebu-Ode residents that he would transform the city through the provision of infrastructural facilities. He hoped that the bridges would be ready for inauguration before this year’s Ojude Oba festival in October. The governor also inspected the 107km IlaraIjoun-Oja Odan-Ilase road, which passes through four local governments in Ogun West. He expressed satisfaction with the quality and progress of work on the highway.

KITI State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi and legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) are among dignitaries expected at this year’s national conference of the Institute of Strategic Management Nigeria (ISMN). The conference, with the theme: ‘Strategy and Leadership: Panacea to our National Malaise’, is scheduled for July 10 to 12 at the LCCI Convention Centre, Alausa, Lagos. According to a statement by the institute’s President Dr. Otive Igbuzor and Registrar/Chief Executive Mr. Adeyemi Mapaderun, the theme was chosen to underscore the importance of strategic management and leadership in arresting the drift in Nigeria. The statement added that the conference session would be chaired by Chief Babalola. Dr. Fayemi is the keynote lecturer. Other speakers include Prince Eze Madumere, Deputy Imo State Governor, Mr. Bryan Holden, Executive Director, European Council for Business Education (ECBE), Prof. Aja Aja of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and Dr. Austin Uwandulu, Founding President of ISMN. During the conference, prominent Nigerians, who have distinguished themselves, will be conferred with ISMN’s honorary fellowship awards. The list includes Yeye Aare Afe Babalola of Afe Babalola University, Mr. Jimi Agbaje of Jaykay Pharmacy, Dr. Nwankwo of Wichtech Industries, Senator Victor Lar, among others.

Lagos set for food fair

HE Lagos Food and Beverage Fair (LFBF) 2013 will hold today at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. It will close on Sunday. The trade fair, which is the second edition, seeks to provide a platform for food and beverages manufacturers to showcase their products and interact with consumers. Packaged by Imani Media International (IMI) Ltd, a media consulting and events management company, the LFBF, according to Khadija Kuranga, IMI boss and coordinator of the event, would offer participants the opportunity to build partnerships with established manufacturers and suppliers of goods. The LFBF, according to the organisers, would also serve as a platform for small-scale entrepreneurs to get educated and informed through the workshops slated as part of the event.

BUSINESS

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

11 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

Economy not threatened, says Okonjo-Iweala

NEPZA targets $15b investments From Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

•$1b bond oversubscribed From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

HE Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, yesterday said the nation’s economy was not under threat of collapse. She also said Nigeria had successfully accessed the international capital markets with a USD1 billion dualtranche international Bond offering. The bond offers were USD 500 million (5-year Bond) and USD 500 million 10-year Bond at Coupons of 5.125 per cent and 6.375 per cent per.annum., respectively. She said proceeds from the bond will finance key power infrastructure in various parts of the country. Okonjo-Iweala, who made these disclosures at a briefing in Abuja, said she never said that the economy would collapse. One of the national dallies had quoted the minster as saying that the economy will collapse if the budget was not amended. But she insisted that the only issue she discussed was about payment of salaries. On the $1billion bond, the minister said it has testified to investors’ ongoing interest in the unlocked potentials in Nigeria.

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

-N10.6 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES

Inflation -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 $48b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

•From left: Ag. President, Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Z. A. Bulkachuwa delivering her welcome address at the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) sensitisation seminar for Appeal Court Judges on “The Challenges to Deposit Insurance Law and Practice in Nigeria” while the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, NDIC, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim listens.

Reps to probe banks for fake note-dispensing ATMs • Finance ministry blamed for poor budgetary allocation

HE House of Representatives has resolved to look into reported cases of fake naira notes being dispensed by Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). The lawmakers noted that the negative trend has the potential of affecting the cash-less economy policy and the economic growth of the country at large. C o n s e q u e n t l y , House Committee on Banking & Currency has been mandated to investigate the matter and report back to the House in three weeks. Mover of the motion, Tajudeen Yusuf (PDP, Kogi) noted that since the commencement of the ATM, it has impacted positively on banking operations (service deliver) and safety of customers fund.

From Victor Oluwasegun, Dele Anofi and Bukola Amusan, Abuja

He, however, found it worrisome that in spite of that, there has been growing incidence of fake naira notes dispensed by the machines. He said: “It is disturbing that many law abiding citizens have been victims of this unfortunate, unprofessional and immoral practice, which has led to the loss of legitimate funds by Nigerians. “More worrisome is that in most cases, victims of the fake naira notes dispensed by ATMs, suffer neglect, anxiety and confusion, as no concrete and proactive measures are taken by commercial banks to correct these anomalies; immediately. “It is of great concern that the

dispense of fake naira notes by the ATMs may grossly affect the operation, viability and success-rate of the recently introduced Cashless Policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). “Not that alone, this negative trend has the potential of eroding public confidence in our banks, impede smooth banking transactions, throwup ethical questions, slow -down investment and affect economic growth.” Meanwhile, the House of Representative Committee on Information and National Orientation has blamed the Federal Ministry of Finance for poor budgetary allocation to Ministries, Departments and Agencies, (MDAs). House Committee Chairman, Information and National Orientation, Honour-

able Umar Buba Jubrin while on an oversight function to the National Orientation Agency, (NOA) in Abuja yesterday, said the failure of the Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala to yield to the request of the legislatures caused the poor budgetary allocation to MDAs. Jubrin described the situation where NOA staff are not being paid their salaries adequately according to appropriation as unfortunate and unacceptable, noting that this was capable of demotivating the staff. He appealed to the Ministry of Finance to release appropriated funds to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies without further delay to enable the implementation of the 2013 budget as the third quarter of the year is already on course.

Fed Govt to sign off on $3b Chinese loans

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan will travel to China next week to sign off on $3 billion in Chinese loans to build the country’s infrastructure, the finance minister Okonjo-Iweala has said. The agreed loans according to Reuters, will come from the Chinese government and will be based on interest rates of less than 3 per cent over a 15-20 year period, the minister of said. The deal underscores increasing Chinese interest in Africa and its resources - Nigeria is the continent’s top oil producer - in competition with Western powers. Okonjo-Iweala estimates the country needs $10 billion

•Jonathan leads investment team a year of investment to improve infrastructure like roads and electricity to keep up with a rapidly growing population, already some 170 million, and to sustain economic growth at around 6-7 per cent. US President Barack Obama launched a $7 billion initiative last Sunday to help Africa with electricity shortages but this is dwarfed by the $20 million in loans China has promised the continent. Obama did not visit Nigeria. “We know that China fuelled its growth by really keeping one step ahead in terms of infrastructure ... we

need roads, we need power, we need help on aviation, agriculture,” Okonjo-Iweala told Reuters at the presidential villa in Abuja. China has made a string of cheap loans in the past few years to countries in Africa, a continent which supplies oil and raw materials such as copper and uranium to Nigeria, which is the secondlargest economy in Africa. The loans to Nigeria include $500 million to build airport terminals in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano; and over $700 million to build a hydroelectric power plant in Niger State.

It also includes $600 million to build a light railway in Abuja, most of which has already been invested on a project due to be completed early next year. Lending at below market rates to fund infrastructure projects using Chinese firms has enabled Beijing to cement relationships in Africa while subsidising its construction industry. The Central bank governor Lamido Sanusi warned African governments in March that China’s pursuit of raw materials and markets for its manufactured goods on the continent carried “a whiff of colonialism” similar to that introduced by Europeans in centuries past.

HE Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority plans to attract $15billion investments into the Free Trade Zones located across the country in the next five years. The Managing Director, NEPZA, Mr. Gbenga Kuye, disclosed this during a press briefing with journalists in Abuja yesterday. He said that, so far, NEPZA had attracted investment of about $9.4billion, apart from the recent $1billion investment by the General Electric in Calabar Free Trade Zone. He added that the organization was reviewing its strategies to enable it play a catalytic role in the successful implementation of the Federal Government’s Industrial Revolution Plan. He said, “Today, we have attracted about $9.4 billon investment into all the free zones. This is without the $1billion investment that we got through General Electric in Calabar Free Trade Zone recently. “However, for the next five years, we have a projection of attracting investment of about $15billion into all our free zones. I want to commend the foresight of the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, for initiating the first-of-its-kind Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan, which NEPZA has already keyed into.” He added, “But in order for us to make meaningful contribution towards industrialising the country, the first thing I want to do, with my team in NEPZA, is to ensure that majority of the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee set up by the minister to transform the Free Trade Zones across the country are implemented.” Kuye said that NEPZA was vigorously reviewing the processes of granting approval and licences to free zones across the country, adding that mechanisms were being put in place to revamp or close down the free zones that were not economically viable. “The approach and process for granting free zone licences have changed. Now we are focusing on the value addition and economic viability of free zone in terms of job creation, wealth creation, skills acquisition and technology transfer, he said. “Currently, there are 25 free zones. Nine are fully operational, six are under construction, four are at design stages, while six are yet to take off. However, most of these free zones that are yet to take off are largely state-owned. One of the major reasons they have not taken off is due to the problem of change of leadership.” This he said depends on if the leadership of a state considers free zones as the veritable tool for economic development or not.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

e-Business MID YEAR REVIEW

The Information Communications Technology (ICT) sector started a little late in the year, but it seems to be picking up now, reports LUCAS AJANAKU.

Moving slowly, steadily T

OWARDS the end of last year, the Minister of Communications Technology, Mrs Omobola Johnson; Project Manager, Information Technology Developers Entrepreneurship Accelerator (iDEA), Helen Anatogu and others addressed stakeholders on the ministry’s pet project: software incubation centres. Going by Anatogu’s explanation, two centres were to come into being before the end of the year or at worst, first quarter of this year. But that did not happen. The Lagos pilot scheme was inaugurated less than three months ago in Yaba. The other, scheduled for Tinapa Knowledge City in Calabar, the Cross River State capital is yet to fly. Anatogu blamed bureaucracy for the delays. She said the “delay is not denial” as the centre in Yaba was like a blessing in disguise. Mrs Omobola said by 2015, six software incubation centres would have been set up while about 25 new businesses would have been established through the initiative.

Software venture capital fund manager

A Venture Capital fund manager was selected to manage the N500 million seed fund made available by the Federal Government through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). Details of the manager were not made public but it is said to be an internationally recognised venture capital fund manager. “A venture fund capital manager has been selected; unfortunately, we cannot let you know the identity of the manager now,” Helen said. The venture capital fund manager is expectected to raise about $75 million to the pool. The fund is expected to be pulled back in 10 years time.

Dominant operators

MTN and Globacom emerged “dominant operators” in the telecoms industry, the report of consultants commissioned by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) revealed. In its recent industry review, the regulator noted that phone calls between MTN customers cost three times lower than calls to other networks. “This is indicative of the likely establishment of a calling club for MTN subscribers,” NCC said. Nigeria, Africa’s fastest growing telecoms market with a population of 167 million people has a subscriber base that is slightly above 119.3 million by the first quarter of this year, NCC data showed. MTN Nigeria was the market leader with about 50 million lines. Globacom has about 24 million subscribers while Airtel had 23 million customers. Etisalat had 15 million. MTN and Globacom were found to “jointly control about 62 per cent of the public terrestrial transmission infrastructure,” raising concerns that they may “squeeze the margins of their competitors who are also their customers.” NCC directed MTN to adhere to ‘accounting separation; collapse of on-net and off-net retail tariffs; and submit required details on specific aspects of its operations from time to time as the need arises. NCC promised to make a determination of pricing principle to address

•Mrs Johnson

•Juwah

the rate charges for on-net and off-net calls for all other operators On the dominant operators in the wholesale leased lines and transmission jointly dominated by MTN and Globacom, NCC said it will impose price cap/price floor for wholesale services and price floor for retail services, which shall be subject to periodic review. It will also “immediately enforce and implement accounting separation on the joint dominant operator.” “The determination shall take effect from May 1, 2013 and remain valid and binding on licensees for the services specified in relevant market segment of this sector until further reviewed by the commission,” NCC insisted. It is not clear if any of the directives of the regualtor has been implemented, about two months after.

ity of service delivery. According to Juwah, MNP has been identified as one service that could further deepen the competition in the telecoms market, adding that with the growing reliance and dependence on mobile communications for everyday socio-economic interactions, it was appropriate to destroy all fetters to choice. “The vision of the commission is not only to provide access to telecommunication services to Nigerians at affordable cost but to also continue to provide the required stimulus and appropriate environment for the introduction of innovative services that will impact on quality telecoms service delivery,” he said.

National Broadband Plan

Perhaps, the greatest milestone of the period under review was the public presentation of the National Broadband Plan 2013-2018. The presentation was made by former Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC and cochairman of the Presidential Committee on Broadband, Ernest Ndukwe,. He explained that the vision was to have “a society of connected communities with high speed Internet and broadband access that facilitates faster socioeconomic advancement of the nation and its people.” The public presentation of the roadmap has received public commendation from stakeholders. Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) Secretary-General, Prof Tim Unwin, said he was delighted that the country had taken the brave initiative of launching a national broadband policy. He stressed that it was a great step in the right direction. “I see the broadband policy here as a massive commitment to raise broadband connection to the entire country. That is an ambitious programme. We will continue to support the NCC and the government of Nigeria,” he said in Lagos.

MNPlaunch

The NCC kicked off the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) scheme in Lagos, saying the development will give subscribers complete freedom to choose which service provider to use. EVC of NCC, Dr Eugene Juwah, said it was in furtherance of the commission’s vision of providing not only access to telecoms services to Nigerians at affordable cost but also to continue to provide the required stimulus and appropriate environment for the introduction of innovative services that will impact on qual-

End to SIM card registration

The nationwide subscriber identifcation module (SIM) card registration officially ended on June 30 after running for about 27 months. The exercise began on March 28, 2011 and had been enmeshed in one problem or the other. While the operators and subscribers have asked for a three-month extension, the regulator insisted that it has ended the exercise. Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Tony Ojobo, told The Nation that there would be no extension, in spite of the appeals by Association of Licensed Telecoms Opaerators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS). One sore point about SIM registration is that a lot of subscribers will be affected by NCC’s mass disconnection order of unregistered SIM because so many subscribers registered their SIM cards long time ago only to receive text messages that their SIMs were yet to be registered.

Pegging of off-net SMS rate at N4

In a move commended by stakeholders, except operators, the regulator pegged all domestic off-net short message services (SMS) at N4. While the operators lamented that it was an overkill because traffic and revenue originating from SMS had shrunk tremendously due to the emergence of instant messaging platforms, such as Blackberry and WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook chat, Yahoo messenger, 2go, meebo, ebuddy, Nimbuzz and CoollM, subscribers say it has brought an end to the era of fleecing them, arguing that in some countries, SMS are offered to subscribers free.

Crash of voice calls

The NCC also announced a reduction in interconnection rates for voice calls in the country. Under the new dispensation, the rate was reduced from N8.20 to N6.40, N5.20 and N3.90. The regulator explained that the decision to reduce the interconnection rate was taken af-

ter wide consultations with the all the stakeholders in the telecoms sector. “After comprehensive consultations with various stakeholders, the NCC released a new set of interconnection rates determination for voice services for the country’s telecommunications industry, commencing April 1, 2013. The new determination rate, which significantly reviewed prices downwards are informed by the depth of competition in the industry while taking into consideration the position of new entrants and small operators,” Ojobo explained. He said the termination rates for voice services provided by new entrants (defined as newly licensed operator entering an existing or new market within zero to three years) and small operators (defined as an existing operator with a market share of 0 – 7.5 per cent in terms of subscriber base in Nigeria irrespective of the originating network shall be: N6.40 from April 1, this year; N5.20 from April 1, 2014; and N3. 90 from April 1, 2015. According to the NCC, the termination rates for voice services provided by other operators in Nigeria irrespective of the originating network shall be: N4.90 from April 1, this year; N4.40 from April 1, 2014; and N3.90 from April 1, 2015.

Unbanning of promos, lotteries

In a rather bizarre move, the NCC unbanned promos and lotteries on the network. Sector analysts said the regulator capitulated to the maneuvering of the operators. They argued that the reasons for prohibiting lotteries and promos had to do with service quality and still had not been addressed.

Quality of telecoms services

During the period under review, like the proverbial leopard that never changes its spot, the quality of telecoms services continued to drop. Call drops, unsuccssful call rates, crosstalking, unauthorised call diversion and other problems continued to be the daily experience of subscribers across all the networks in the country. In a strange coincidence, service quality dipped to its lowest shortly after the launch of the MNP. In the area of data services, the subscribers undergo untold hardship trying to use their dongles. If the problem is not downtime from the service providers, it is the speed and bandwidth promised that are not being made available to them. Some internet service providers (ISPs) too continue to have a field day as they unleash less than dignifying

National Single Window Portal

The Ministry of Communications Technology in collaboration with the Ministry of Information launched the National Single Window Portal to create one point of entry for Nigerians to access government information and services online. A government Call Center with vanity number ‘’0700 CALL GOV’’ has since been launched. The Call centre will facilitate enquiries, complaints/problem resolution where possible. It will help build a knowledge management database and help support servicom desks. NCS dreams IT Park The Nigerian Computer Society (NCS) unfolded plans to build an IT Park in Lagos. Its President, Sir Demola Aladekomo, said the body intends to replicate what happened in Balgore, India and Sillicon Valley in the US. “What it does is that it allows us to pull resources together to manage all the tings that we need centrally. Just like the Sillicon Valley that we were discussing, once you know that there is a place you can go to get all these service, the whole world will just go there. So, there is synergy it is going to create, not just within the industry but also within the society because they know that they can get service, they will go there. Even the infrastucture providers can then concentrate on us,” he said.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

e-Business

Group canvasses more powers for NCC to check telcos

HE Nigeria Internet Group (NIG) has asked that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) be given the power to sack the chief executive officers of erring telecoms companies. NIG President, Bayo Banjo, said the NCC was copying the regulatory pattern of developed countries where the chief executive officers of the firms were accountable to the shareholders. He said:“The NCC is not a serious regulator in the sense that it is trying to adopt sanctions that

By Lucas Ajanaku

work abroad but those sanctions don’t work here. Let us assume you fine a big organisation like most of the telecoms companies N300 million. How many subscribers do they have? The one that has 50 million for example, to get that N300 million, it just needs N5 from each of its subscribers. How does that pain them? “The reason that type of sanction works abroad is that when it is time for the company’s An-

nual General Meeting (AGM), the shareholders will look at the books and the CEO and tell him: You caused us to lose N300 million that would have been in our kitty. We are going to remove you. So the CEO knows that he has to sit up and listen to what the regulator is saying but here, you fine the operators, they pay the fine and life goes on. If you want to get Nigerian companies to behave well, apply what hs been seen to work.” According to him, the regulator should have powers similar to

that of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to institutionalise discipline in the industry. “The CBN governor has the right to remove the CEO of a bank if he deems him or her unfit to be a CEO. Give NCC that power when the NCC says: I have given you a letter to do this, you are ignoring it, I am going to remove you. That CEO will quickly implement the content of the letter but if it is a fine, they know how to manipulate the system such that they don’t feeel its impact. You fine them N600 million, they just go to

the computer, do the calculation and say okay, that is N10 per subscriber. The subscribers will not even notice it. Human beings are the same everywhere in the world, reacting to sanctions but the sanctions here don’t work,” he said. He added that a measure of sanity came to the banking sector when the CEOs of the banks started losing their exalted positions, arguing that if Nigerian subscribers were ever going to get quality telecom services, the NCC must be given the power to sack telecoms CEOs.

Galaxy Backbone dedicates award to subscribers

ANAGING Director of Galaxy Backbone Mr Gerald Ilukwe, has said the award it won from the United Nations Organisation (UNO) is a validation of efforts of the company and the country at the efficient deployment of Information Technology (IT) in delivering services to the citizens using its homegrown 1-GOV. net initiative. According to a statement, Ilukwe spoke on the sideline at the annual UN Public Service Forum and Awards in Manama, Bahrain, adding that though the company faced some challenges at inception, such as opposition from civil servants, the firm has transformed governance with its IT platform. “What this award means is that this is the way to go, the UN is setting the standards and other countries are also following and

Stories by Deji Fakorede

it shows that we are on the right path. We have to get the people opposed to IT in government service to come on board so that we can deliver quality services to Nigerians,” he said, adding that it will spur him to do more. He maintained that IT was one leg of the efforts as the ultimate aim is “transformational government”, urging civil servants to support Galaxy Backbone in building on the gains it has achieved in its few years in existence. Ilukwe explained that information and communications technology has become a yardstick for measuring human development and assured that the nation would witness unprecedented development if IT is deployed in state and local governments with their support.

MTN donates digital libraries

TN has ended this year’s edition of its yearly staff volunteerism programme, 21 Days of Y’ello Care, which focused on education by donating digital libraries. The programme, initiated by the MTN Group in 2007, encourages MTN staff in all its 21 operating countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East to volunteer their resources, time and skills to assist others and the communities where they live and work. During the programme, workers of the telco engaged in a number of activities with the aim of entrenching the reading culture among children. It adopted the theme “Investing in Education for All”, which aligns with a major goal of helping to improve

one of the important parameters by which real development can be judged. Chief Executive Ofiicer (CEO) MTN, Brett Goschen said, “The theme for this year: Investing in Education for All, is in consonance with the global movement to make education accessible and compulsory for all and sundry across the world. “Twelve digital libraries were set up in primary and secondary schools across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria. Teaching activities were conducted in eighty-one schools. Teacher empowerment seminars were held in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, while thousands of books and other educational materials were distributed in schools across the country.”

Firm launches eco-friendly products

ECH firm, ASUS, says it is balancing engineering with humanity with its range of products which are ecofriendly. Chairman of the firm, Jonney Shih, made this remark at a media event tagged: “We transform Computex”, which transformed consumers’ expectations about technology. He revealed that balancing engineering with humanity is the firm’s way of ‘Design Thinking’, adding that this informed its new products designed to simplify modern digital lifestyle. He said: “We seek to perfect the balance between engineering and humanity, where every intricate detail echoes our needs for both

emotion and function. This is the ASUS way of Design Thinking, where every idea starts with people and we turn our imagination into myriad revolutionary innovations.” The firm showcased the ASUS Transformer Book Trio, which it explained is an innovative combination of notebook, tablet and desktop PC for unparalleled flexibility in work, play and social activity. It added that the new Transformer Pad Infinity is the world’s first NVIDIA Tegra 4 tablet with a stunning 2560 x 1600 resolution display. ASUS also announcedtwo new handheld devices, the 6-inch Fonepad Note FHD 6 tablet with 3G voice-calling and the 7-inch MeMO Pad HD 7 value tablet.

Nigeria hosts Commonwealth forum

IGERIA Communications Commissson (NCC) will, between October 7 and 11, host the 53th Council Meeting and 11th Annual Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) Forum at the HiltonHotel, Abuja. With Innovation through Broadband as its theme, other discussions will be focused on: Future Networks-Infrastructure Development and Enabling Business; Beyond Social Media-from Likes to Learning; Broadband Innovation and

Young People; Securing ICT Development and Success in the Commonwealth and; Broadband Development: e-Government, e-Accessibility and eHealth. Speaking in Lagos ahead of the forum, CTO Secretary-General, Prof Tim Unwin, said he was delighted that the country had taken the brave initiative of launching a national broadband policy, stressing that it was a great step in the right direction.

•From right: Vice President, Ericsson, Dr Shiv Bakhshi; former Executive Commissioner, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Bashir Gwandu; Executive Head, Regulatory Affairs, Vodacom, Mr Mortimer Hope, and Managing Director, Access Partnership, Mr Gregory Francis, at a regulatory panel discussion in London.

Samsung awaits Ekiti for academy take-off

AMSUNG Electronics West Africa, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Company Limited, said it is awaiting the government of Ekiti State for the take-off of another engineerig academy in the country. Its Managing Director, Bravo Kim, who spoke on the sideline at an event in Lagos, explained that it is part of the firm’s capacity building programme targeted at developing 10,000 electronics engineers across Africa by 2015. According to him, the Samsung Engineering Accademy in Ekiti, is almost completed, adding that what is needed is for the state government to give the green light so that the programme could take off. He said the facilities for the academy were already in place. Meanwhile, the firm has an-

nounced the introduction of the new All-in-One (AiO) PC Series 7 into the market. Samaung said the new PC builds on the premium aspects of the Samsung Series 9 Notebook with advanced engineering, craftsmanship and stylish design. Beyond high performance, it added that the new PC Series 7 has been crafted to deliver a new AiO PC experience. Driven by a 3rd generation Intel CoreT i53470T Processor, 6GB RAM, dedicated AMD Radeon HD graphics and a Full HD display with resolution of 1920 x 1080, the new AiO PC Series 7 embodies innovative sense recognition features such as 10-finger multi-touch screen control and hand gesture commands.

The Head, IT Solutions, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Folashade Oyelayo, said: “The new AiO PC packages the best of Samsung’s precision engineering and premium design with top class performance and functionality. “With its unique craftsmanship and boasting of the latest hardware and software, we predict that this new product will be accepted by discerning consumers. It offers a maximised home entertainment experience and is a perfect device for a family PC or desktop replacement. We feel that the AiO PC market carries enormous growth potential by taking convergence technologies to the next level.”

‘Nigeria can generate $3b revenue from selecting 90 participants quarterly IGERIA is yet to tap into the to undergo an intensive six weeks digital media’ enormous potential of $3 of free training in its fully N billion yearly revenue accruable from the digital media industry, Chief Executive Officer, Digital Access Foundation for Technology Development (DAFTECH), Oseji Michael, said in Lagos. He said if the industry is properly harnessed, it will contribute significantly to the nations’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP), lamenting, however, that the nation lacks the technology to tap into this dormant goldmine. According to him, a digital media industry like the movie industry (Nollywood) is bereft of funding in technology and skilled manpower, arguing that this explains why a cartoon movie has not been produced in the country. He said to fill the gap, DAFTECH will, through its skills4Life programme, embark on free training

for the youth to turn out about 5000 technology entrepreneurs through offering advanced courses in iOS, Android and Windows application development, digital effects, classical character animation, film and video editing, graphic designs, Web and mobile publishing. “Our aim is to simplify technology, empower educators and inspire students to enhance their technology potential. Through transparency and high integrity, our objective is to provide a technology hub where learning and skills’ development thrives with the overall goal of reducing unemployment and creating technology entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Africa,” he said. He also said DAFTECH would commence the training soon by

equipped classroom and digital studio. “At the end of each session, certificates will be awarded to participants and the best overall student gets rewarded with a MAC BOOK PRO. The first of such centres is now operational in Lagos and open to participants for registration. With the support of our friends, partners and supporters, we are building more centres in other states of the federation to cater for those outside of Lagos. “In addition, plans are underway to build Nigeria’s first Digital Media University,” he said, adding that by next year, full diploma, first degree and masters level scholarship will be awarded to three students to study Digital Media in the United States.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

INDUSTRY

Abia set to rebrand made-in-Aba goods • Brewery, Modern Ceramics to bounce back soon Stories by Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie Asst.Editor

•Orji

HE government of Abia State has promised to bring experts to the state to help grow small scale industrialists in Aba, the popular commercial nerve centre of the state. This will make goods produced in the state to compete with goods produced in other parts of the world. The state governor, Theodore Ahamefula Orji, told The Nation, that experts have been brought in to polish not only the creativity of the small scale industrialists but to also horn their skills in quality finishing of their products. He said no government worth its salt can neglect

ing more markets for them just behind Osisioma motor park. There is another market springing up in Ukwa West Local Government Area very close to the city centre for wholesale goods, packaging and exporting. We are also organising them into small cooperatives to enable them access funds to help buy the needed machines and accessories make their products compete favourably with the ones that come from Germany and Hong Kong.” He said government has taken it upon itself to raise the bar and also lead a campaign for Nigerians to patronise made-in-Aba goods for their standard quality. According to him Aba is the only place in the country where you find experts in wears, leather shoes and bags that are exported and of very good quality. He said the development of Aba will not be limited to the city alone, adding that the government has commenced the devel-

Expert urges govt, others to embrace local content

HE Federal Government and operators in the oil and gas sub-sector of the economy have been urged to take advantage of the abundant polymer materials in the country to halt the over $1 billion wasted through the importation of polymer into the country. This development will also avert further environmental degradation occasioned by the use of non-biodegradable materials for food packaging in the country. Prof Willis Harmon Ray of the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, United States of America (USA) made this call in Lagos at the annual lecture and Life Achievement Awards and Induction of new fellows of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering (NAE). With Engineering Opportunities and Challenges Related to Producing a Broad Range of Polymer Products from Oil and Gas as its theme, the lecture was held at the Main Auditorium of the University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba. Prof Ray was guest lecturer at the event. Acccording to him, there were great opportunities to produce large quantities of a broader range of valuable polymers in Nigeria that would expand the domestic market, significantly reduce imports, and offer materials for the export market. He lamented that amid the abundant polymer materials in Nigeria, the country is currently spending over one $1 billion on the importation of polymer into the nation. Represented by the interim Dean, College of Engineering, University of Delaware, USA, Prof Babatunde Ogunnaike, said the country should take advantage of polymer materials to improve the economy. He said: “There are well-regarded

the commercial city knowing the activities and contributions of the informal sector to the economy of the state and well being of the citizens. The governor said: “Aba is very important to us because it is only in that town that you cannot find somebody who is unemployed. Every person in the city has employment. It is either you are an artisan, trader or you are learning a trade, even the civil servant finds time to try his hand in one business or the other. Nobody is idle and no responsible government can joke with such people. “The support and encouragement they need to excel we are bound to give to them and we are doing just that as we have constructed over 18 major roads and will still do more to ease their transportation needs as they move their goods from the

point of production to distribution.” According to him, the state government plans to improve the standards of the manufactured products and brand it as ‘Made in Aba with Pride.’ He added that gone were days when goods produced from the commercial city would carry a foreign brand name. To achieve this, he said experts have been hired to give the products an international reach so that they could compete favourably with imported ones. To underscore the seriousness of his administration, he disclosed that the state government is partnering with the private sector to build more markets to serve as production points in clusters. The clusters will be in accordance with the trade of each of the unions operating in the market and they would be provided with the requisite infrastructure. He said: “We are getting more markets for them. For instance, a company known as ABIC is build-

opment of Umuahia, the state capital, by building industrial centres. On the moribund Golden Guinea Breweries and Modern Ceramics industries, the governor said Modern Ceramics Industry was ceded to the Catholic Church through their business arm known as UCL Resources and Investments Ltd. He said the state went into partnership with the firm in order to revive the ailing industry. He added that the firm was actually doing well before running into hitches, promising his administration’s resolve to bail it out. The Nation reliably gathered that under the current shareholding arrangement, UCL Resources owns 80 per cent, Abia State government, 5 per cent, while the remaining 15 per cent is reserved for private investors. On Golden Guinea Breweries, the governor said: “We have an investor now. Initially, he was delayed for lack of funds but he has got money and is Germany-bound to get new machines as the machines are out of use and needs to be replaced fully.”

and successful polymer production processes available for license that could be installed in Nigeria to take advantage of the large volumes of inexpensive oil, gas, and refined products available locally. “Creating and expanding the production of polymers would allow the expansion of the domestic polymer processing industry to provide more varieties and larger volumes of polymer consumer products for both domestic use and export. Nigerians must embrace the production of polymer materials.” Earlier in his address, NAE’s president, Prof Ayodele Francis Ogunye, said polymer production was becoming more relevant to the advancement of various sub-sectors of the nation’s economy. He therefore urged the Federal Government and stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to harness the abundant benefits in polymer production to the country’s advantage. The Academy honoured three of its elders with life achievement awards while 12 new members were inducted into the exalted class of fellows. Those honoured with life achievement awards include Engr.(professors) Gabriel Ayodele Makanjuola, Sikiru Adebayo Sanni and Engr.Guy Eboe Otobo. Those new fellows include former governor of Abia State and Chairmen, All Nigeria People’s Party, ANPP Engr. (Dr.) Ogbonnaya Onu, Engr. (Prof.) Michael Oladimeji Faborode, Engr. (Prof.) Joseph Atubokiki Ajienka, Engr. (Prof.) Joseph Olawole Shojobi, Engr. (Prof.) Lawson Olabosipo Asekoya and Engr. Yusuf Olanrewaju Sagaya. Others are Engr. (Prof.) Joseph Olorunfemi Ojo, Engr. (Prof.) Adetokunbo Omokayode Denloye, Engr. (Dr.) Kisito Okpere, Engr. (Prof.) FunsoFalade and Engr. Jani Ibrahim.

•From left: World Bank's Country Director, Mr Michael Wong; representative of the Canadian High Commissioner, Mr Joseph Sebhatu; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Musa Sada and Australian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Jonathan Richardson, at a stakeholders workshop on the Australian and Canadian externally financed output programme for Mining Sector Development in Nigeria in Abuja.

Rice farmers to govt: stop importation, smuggling

RESIDENT, Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Southwest Zone, Mr Segun Atho, has, urged the Federal Government to adopt decisive measures to stop the importation and smuggling of rice. Atho told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos yesterday that massive smuggling and importation of rice had adversely affected local production and was a major cause of concern to farmers. “Smugglers are seriously killing the acceptability of local rice in the market; we don’t have local rice as much as the foreign one in the markets.

trends, opportunities and impact andcontains data from more than 7000 companies in 19 African countries and provides a unique opportunity for research and policy advocacy in an empirically sound manner.” . Ajala added that the data would support the Federal Government through FMTI, NIPC, SMEDAN and other institutions to monitor trends in investment flows and measure their impact on the economy. It also said the platform will target quality investors and advocate for evidence-based interventions and policy proposals, stressing that IMP would be launched officially in Nigeria by the Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga, in Abuja.

need to increase the nation’s capacity in rice production, rather than in the processing of the produce. “We appeal to government for provision of organic fertiliser, in order for our local produce to be accepted in other foreign countries. “The combination of chemical fertiliser and organic fertiliser increases the yield, more than chemical fertilisers alone, “he said. The association’s president attributed the rejection of locally produced rice at the international market to Nigerian farmers not having ready access to organic fertilisers during cultivation.

‘Why govt should plan commercial areas’

UNIDO, others partner on investment platform

HE United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is to go into partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment (FMTI) and other stakeholders to inaugurate an Investment Monitoring Platform (IMP) in Nigeria. The other stakeholders include the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) and the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). This was contained in a statement issued in Abuja by a UNIDO investment promotion expert, Mr Adetola Ajala. He said: “The IMP is an interactive online investment software developed by Microsoft for UNIDO that enables users to monitor investment

“Government needs to come out and help us to deal with the issue, in order to encourage local rice growers. “If the Federal Government can review the trade liberalisation scheme and close the borders to smuggled goods, this will help improve the production of local rice in the country,’’ he said. Atho added that the increase in the production and sale of local rice would encourage other interested citizens to take up farming as a profession. He also urged the government to invest more in the provision of organic fertiliser, saying there was a

•Onu

NDUSTRIAL establishments that generate liquid and effluents are supposed to integrate into their system, a sewage plant management plan before the government can issue them approvals, the President, Nigeria Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Mr Steve Onu, has said. Onu, who spoke to The Nation in Lagos, decried the reckless discharge of waste water and effluents into the environment, saying that it throws

up health issues in the environment. He argued that commercial and industrial development is not different from residential development, insisting that in each case, there should be adequate physical planning measure where an industrial layout is looked at in totality and essential services adequately provided to take care of the stress of providing them from the industry operators. He encouraged the government to ensure that solid and liquid wastes from companies are treated adequately before being allowed into the municipal sewage system. The NITP president asked for adequate mapping and zoning of industrial areas because, according to him, all human activities revolve around the use of land. Consequently, he called for equitable use of land, adding that the first

thing to do is digital mapping of zones to know what kind of industries that can be cited to ensure that there is safety of lives and property. According to him, unplanned development is expensive in the long run because people will locate industries or housing estates without sufficient plan for quality roads, electricity, water and sewage management. He said when the government realises the mistake, it will come back to demolish the buildings, creating losses for businesses. The NITP president said in the United States of America (USA), before anybody applies to build a house, such a person will seek permission and before it is approved, the responsible government agency will confirm if the sewage, electricity and water board can accommodate the housing or industrial facility.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

Words of wisdom from CJN

• The Judiciary holds the key if the anti-corruption battle is to be won

O the extent of clearly articulating the problem, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar, should be commended for her uncompromising stand against corruption; and her condemnation of the contribution of the Bar and the Bench towards this national malaise. That is highly welcome; for if Nigeria does not kill corruption, corruption will eventually kill it. Speaking at a seminar which theme was “Practical Ways to Combat Corruption in the Justice Sector in Nigeria”, organised by the Nigerian Bar Association Anti-Corruption Commission, the CJN pointed at the inappropriateness of the anti-corruption weaponry and called for sweeping change. “Anti-corruption war in Nigeria is like a gun-war being fought with bows and arrows,” the CJN declared, underscoring the seriousness of the challenge. Adopting the John Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales quip of “if gold rusts, what will iron do?”, she launched a frontal attack on the Judiciary and rued that unscrupulous elements, both in the Bar and on the Bench, aid and abet corruption, insisting such conduct was reprehensible and must stop. “It is a war both sides [prosecutor and defence] manipulate to gain personal and political points. It is a ‘world’ of controversies, politics, extensive debates and high public acclamations” she added, in obvious reference to the crass filibustering that daily goes on in the courts, particularly when the high and the mighty are in the dock, all in the bid to: first slow down; and then, subvert justice. “It is a war,” she declared, decrying the grave dislocation of mores and societal val-

ues in the present cynical and half-hearted war on corruption, “that can turn its fighters into victims and those being fought into heroes”. These are indeed words of wisdom from the highest judicial officer in the land. That, for a mess of pottage, a section of the Bar and the Bench demean themselves to subvert justice is all but open secret. Though it is not the first time the CJN would openly criticise corruption in the Judiciary, her persistent repetition of the charge and her call that lawyers and judges clean up their acts not only show the depth of the problems but also the CJN’s burning passion to solve the problem and save her charge, the Judiciary, from public odium. Let it be clear: an odious Judiciary is not for the Bar and the Bench alone to bother about. It really could make a difference between peaceful change and a violent one. As independent, fair and just arbiter, the Judiciary is structured as the last temple of peaceful change. Now, when that temple becomes a den of thieves, scammers and allied criminals, the resultant hopelessness and fury turns the society into an avoidable volcano. So, the CJN should continue with providing leadership in the anti-corruption war, particularly in the Judiciary, which is her forte. She should put in place more systemic checks and balances to weed out judges and magistrates who are bad eggs; and also checkmate unscrupulous lawyers who see winning and losing a case as just another racket to earn contemptible living. It is however heart-gladdening that even the Bar is concerned about judicial corruption. The event at which the CJN spoke was organised by an NBA anti-cor-

ruption lobby. That is good: for it shows the CJN is no lone voice crying in the wilderness, while other stakeholders are comfy to luxuriate, like pigs, in the bog of sleaze. Still, talk is cheap. If urgent and firm actions are not taken to kill the monster, all these interventions would count for nothing but mere talk shops. That is why everyone should move from mere talks of condemnation and regrets into solid action. Mohammed Adoke, federal attorney-general and justice minister, at the same seminar, spoke of soon to be introduced “National Anti-Corruption Strategy”. He should make sure everyone buys into that strategy to strike corruption the death blow it deserves. That virus must die for the rest of us to live.

‘The event at which the CJN spoke was organised by an NBA anti-corruption lobby. That is good: for it shows the CJN is no lone voice crying in the wilderness, while other stakeholders are comfy to luxuriate, like pigs, in the bog of sleaze. Still, talk is cheap. If urgent and firm actions are not taken to kill the monster, all these interventions would count for nothing but mere talk shops. That is why everyone should move from mere talks of condemnation and regrets into solid action.

Missing ammunition

• The recent report on Ekiti Police Command reflects a dangerous national trend

HE shades of mystery casing the influx of arms and ammunition into illegal hands may be gradually unravelling. Recently, the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts reportedly beamed its klieg light into the 2010 query raised by the Auditor-General (AG) of the Federation against indiscriminate disappearance of rifles and ammunition allocated to some state police commands. For instance, in Ekiti State Police Command alone, 57,000 live ammunitions were unbelievably declared missing. Solomon Adeola, Chairman, House Committee on Public Accounts gave a graphic breakdown of items in the AG’s query to include in Ekiti command: one AK 47 rifle-No. BD359073 with 20 rounds of live ammunition; another AK 47- No.

‘The menace of arms proliferation can only be curbed if there is transparency and accountability in the way and manner ammunition given to the police, and even the military, are judiciously deployed. All those involved in this gun running rackets in the police must be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law’

BA 405835; one Berate pistol and two pump action rifles. Also in Jalingo, capital of Taraba State, one pump action gun and cartridges with 30 rounds of ammunition were declared missing in the query. The same loss of firearms was captured in the AG’s query in Edo State. Despite the role that the police as an institution is expected to play in protecting the law, it is unfortunate that these losses had been treated with scorn and without deference to the provisions of the law. The query gave the clincher in this regard where it clearly reveals that “…losses had not been reported officially in line with the Financial Regulation Chapter 26,’’ while ‘Treasury Form 146 had not been completed as required by law.’ This obvious infraction of the law by the police authority, especially on such important issue as that of misappropriation of arms and ammunition is condemnable. More stupefying is the fact that the police were found wanting, through unconvincing explanations, on the matter. The Inspector-General of Police, Mr M.D Mohammed, contemptuously refused to appear, despite summons, before the House committee to answer questions on the damning queries on the police covering a period of four years, 2006-2010. The explanations given by Mr. Suleiman Fakai, Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in-charge of Administration during his appearance before the House committee that two police officers who were involved in the missing 57,000 live ammunitions in Ekiti State had been arrested, prosecuted and dismissed

belatedly diminishes the severity of the matter at hand. More condemnable is the fact that the DIG could not provide relevant original documents to back up his claims. This is poor accountability. Does it mean that just two police officers were involved in such huge criminal rackets? Could such act of criminality have been committed without the connivance of other top personnel of the force? Why is the crime of arms and ammunition racketeering becoming incessant in police commands across the country? The House of Representatives should pursue this matter to a logical conclusion. At the last count, not less than 134 vital queries, in the last six years, are reportedly standing against the police in the House. The police, as protector of the law, should not intimidate the legislature, a law making organ of government, from carrying out its oversight function on the force. After all, nobody or institution of government is above the law- the police inclusive. At this security challenging period in the country’s annals when armed insurgents’ activities thrive unabashedly, the police force should be prepared to account for every arm and ammunition allocated to it. The menace of arms proliferation can only be curbed if there is transparency and accountability in the way and manner ammunition given to the police, and even the military, are judiciously deployed. All those involved in this gun running rackets in the police must be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law.

US spying is not a threat to friendship – EU should reinforce defences if it wants to stop espionage

ORD Palmerston, twice prime minister of Britain, once said that a nation has no eternal allies, only eternal interests. His words ring as true today as they did 165 years ago. Suggestions that the US has been bugging offices of the EU and other western allies should shock no one. Countries have been spying on friends for millennia. Europe’s public outrage over the latest revelations from Edward Snowden, the former National Security Agency contractor, is misplaced. There are plenty of examples in recent history to show that espionage targeted at allies is nothing more nor less than business as usual. Twenty years ago the US was discovered eavesdropping on French officials during trade talks. Israel recruited Jonathan Pollard, a US government analyst, to steal military intelligence from its closest ally. And European member states, the French and British among them, have also had their secret services out there listening, gathering and analysing. There is a fine balance to be struck when deciding whether to spy on friends. A useful relationship might be spoiled if agents are caught. But it might be legitimate for a country to look after its security interests by, for example, collecting information on an ally’s foreign relationships, including with unfriendly third parties. That has long been the diplomat’s role. Those who threaten to derail recently launched trade talks with the US over the allegations are not just worryingly naive. They are playing a dangerous game. A deal promises to deepen economic ties and prolong western influence over global trade. But it will require tough compromises. Any seasoned negotiator knows that in such delicate talks the other side will come to the negotiating table with as much information as possible. If Europe does not want the US or anyone else to know what it is thinking, it should ensure that its defences against such intelligence gathering are more effective. There is another risk. The furore has weakened Washington’s credibility just as it is taking a strong stand against a rising tide of cyber espionage from China. EU outrage will only give further ammunition to Chinese critics who accuse the US of double standards. However, European companies and governments have also been targets. The EU would be making a grave mistake if it allowed this dispute over unpleasant but hardly surprising US snooping to divert attention from China’s cyber armies. Right now, that is the bigger threat. – Financial Times 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 •Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon •Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina •Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) Yomi Odunuga •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Group Business Editor Ayodele Aminu •Sport Editor Ade Ojeikere •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu • Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho •Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge •Advert Manager Robinson Osirike •IT Manager Bolarinwa Meekness •Press Manager Udensi Chikaodi •Manager, Corporate Marketing Hameed Odejayi • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: The essence of education to the growth and development of any nation cannot be over emphasized. Education is so crucial to economic growth that any nation that genuinely hopes to develop must vehemently andconsistently appropriate a large chunk of its budget to developing its educational sector. Without education, no nation would attain meaningful economic and socio-political development. Two months into the nationwide strike embarked upon by the Academic Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) the Academic Union of Universities (ASUU) has now embarked on an indefinite strike over the failure of the Federal Government to implement a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on ‘‘EARN’’ allowance of N12,500 per month. The issue here is why would government enter into agreements and

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 1000 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.com

Govt should end ASUU, ASUP strike

renege on such agreements? It beats one’s imagination that matters regarding education are handled with utmost levity by the government. There is no equality in a system where a local government councilor earns three or four times the salary of a university lecturer. Any system that relegates teachers’ welfare to the background will definitely produce half-baked graduates and graduates who cannot prove their mettle in the labour market. Why would government wait until lecturers embark on strike before taking action? Does it

mean that strike action is the only language the Nigerian government understands? When are we going to get to a time when lecturers will no longer embark on strikes in Nigeria? With the current insecurity in Nigeria, why would government allow our tertiary institution students to waste their talents at home or roam the streets when they can be meaningfully engaged in the classrooms? Some of these students who are now idle hands could be tempted to engage in nefarious activities or join criminal gangs to perpetrate

crimes. An idle mind is definitely the devil’s workshop so the government must as a matter of urgency act to ensure it resolves the issues with the polytechnic and university lecturers so that these students can go back to school. The strike actions will not do anyone any good; it will only end up crippling an already ailing education sector. We were recently told by the Federal Ministry of Education that only about 500,000 applicants will eventually get admission into our tertiary institutions in 2013 out of about

right. We do not need to reinvent the wheel but just do what other countries are doing to attract attention. We can go back to the drawing board to reassess how we handle matters of wealth distribution in Nigeria. We must change the ways we deal with the matters of justice and rule of law. We must pay attention to things that unite us and discard things that tend to divide us. Let the real men in Nigeria pick up this challenge. Societies have always been moved forward by the

unique discoveries of few great men throughout history. Nigeria has the potential of leading, feeding and policing Africa if we discard primordial sentiments and invest in all Nigerians irrespective of tongue, tribe, culture, religion or tradition. If the rapacious greedy lots in Nigeria can say enough is enough and that they have stolen enough, this country can be great again. Let us begin by making 2015 elections free and fair. This is the first step. Once Nigerians can elect leaders of their choice in a free

and fair process, the journey to greatness can start from there. Let no one be deceived; we cannot be great without electing great leaders. We cannot achieve great things by deploying little-minded persons to do the job of great men. President Obama looked down on Nigeria in 2013. Perhaps in the next 10 years things will be different and the world will pay attention to Nigeria. This I believe! • Joe Igbokwe, Lagos

scored 16 votes against the 19 by your colleague and Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Ameachi. As someone who once proclaimed publicly that he is a born again Christian and Pastor, how do you justify your claim of being the authentic chairman of the forum? How are 16 votes above 19 in your own arithmetic? I am writing these words to you as someone I have always held in high esteem. What shall it profit you if some people who by all standard, are even supposed to be your children use you to cause confusion in Nigeria? Will you be happy to be

penciled down by history as someone that was used by his younger ones to subvert democracy in Nigeria? You are supposed to be a role model amongst the governors and doing the contrary will tarnish the reputation you have built for yourself for the past years. You are not ignorant of the security threats election rigging poses in Nigeria; you suffered it in 2003 in your first attempt to rule Plateau State. We all believed you were rigged in favour of the then incumbent Governor Joshua Dariye, but to the glory of God, you came back

Obama’s Nigeria wake-up call

IR: The dumping of Nigeria by United States President Barack Obama in his recent visit to Africa does not mean that Obama does not know the strength of Nigeria. It is not to undermine the vantage position of Nigeria in Africa and the world. Visiting South Africa, Senegal and Tanzania, and leaving out a promising country like Nigeria is not a way of saying that Nigeria does not matter in the black world. What the flamboyant President of the United States is trying to do is to help us to do some growing up and pay attention. The leader of the world’s largest economy is sending a powerful signal that our leaders are not getting it right. He came short of saying that despite our huge potentials, given our human and material resources, Nigeria cannot take the lead in Africa. Obama is indirectly indicting Nigeria to rise to the occasion and be responsible and responsive. He is advising Nigerian leaders that size is no guarantee to strength; that if leadership is measured by might, giants would have been ruling the world. It’s a clarion call for Nigerian leaders to show some respect to 150 million Nigerians and do things

1.7 million that sat for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in April. Many eligible applicants are denied admission placement due to shortage of space in our institutions due to the fact that these institutions lack the requisite facilities to accommodate them. One of the reasons why the education sector has degenerated to this sorry state is that the government keeps paying lip service to issues concerning education without taking proactive steps to forestall crises. I think declaring a state of emergency in the education sector is long overdue and this should be done to forestall total collapse of the sector. A lot of reforms are urgently required in the educational sector and I believe that the government can do this if it is serious about addressing the problems in the sector. We are a country where so many talented people abound. But one sure way to discover and tap these talents for the benefit of the nation is through sound education for the people. The Federal Government should urgently call ASUP and ASUU to a roundtable to iron out the issues with them so that they can call off the strike as soon as possible.It is high time we discouraged strike action as the only tool that can coerce government into action on matters of public concern. • Tayo Demola Lagos.

Open letter to Governor Jang

IR: Since your assumption of office, Plateau State has witnessed a lot of infrastructural development; you have changed the face of Jos town with the road networks and have brought back the cleanness it has always been known with. However, I am highly disappointed the way things are presently happening around you. My main concern is the controversy surrounding the leadership of Nigeria Governors Forum which you are deeply involved; the forum’s election was done openly and witnessed by every Nigerian where you

in 2007. Such characters you and some of your colleagues are exhibiting will make Nigerians believe that credible election in Nigeria is not possible and therefore, loose hope in the system. The truth is that some of your colleagues who do not have the integrity that you have are just using you to gain themselves the status of “Good Boys” in the villa. The earlier you realize this, the better for you and democracy. • Comrade Richard Tersoo Mnenga University of Basel Switzerland.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

COMMENTS

Bayero: 50 years on the throne of Kano

HE ancient city of Kano is one of the seven Hausa Bakwai states allegedly founded by the eponymous ancestor of the Hausa people Bayajidda who married the Queen of Daura after killing the snake Sarki that was apparently terrorising the local people. Myth of course is not the subject of history but myth is important sometimes for rallying the people. Kano and Daura are sister emirates in the heartland of Northern Nigeria. It is generally presumed that Kano emerged as an embryonic settlement in the 8th century but by the 14 th century, Kano was so highly developed that it did not only become a centre of commerce and industry but a centre of Islamic civilisation with its own Ajami script and with a civilisation that radiated into several parts of the central and western Sudan. Indeed Muhammad Al-Maghili, the 15th century Islamic teacher lived in Kano for a while. This Islamic tradition was overtime undermined by syncretist tendencies of the Habe rulers. This was one of the reasons for the Fulani jihad led by Usman Dan Fodio. The first Fulani emir of Kano was Muhammad Suleiman who displaced the last Habe ruler Muhammad Al Walid in 1805. Since the beginning of the 19th century, the Fulani emirs have been on the throne of Kano emirate, the most important economic centre of Hausa land. Kano developed as a result of its trade links with the Maghreb and North Africa in general. During the 19th century, Kano’s contact with the Western Sudan was further accentuated by the spread of the Tijanniyah brotherhood or Tariqa associated with the rise of Alhaji Umar, the 19th century founder of the Segu- Toucouleur Empire. The Tijanniyah brotherhood brought Kano and what is now Senegal into close proximity. Even though the Fulani emirs of Kano follow the Qadriyyah Tariqa, nevertheless, the liberal and vibrant economic environment of Kano tolerated other ideas within the broad spectrum of Islamic civilisation. When the colourful Muhammad Ado Sanusi, the Emir of Kano from 1954 -1963 came into conflict with modern political leadership of Northern Nigeria particularly Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria and was accused of high-handedness and consequently removed and banished to the dusty little settlement of Dutse, Kano emirate was shaken to its very foundation but the crisis was overcome when Muhammad Inuwa was appointed emir of Kano. He did not last long on the throne when he passed on in 1963 and a highly educated and highly regarded successor in the person of Ado Bayero, a son of Abdullahi Bayero, a previous emir was appointed emir. Mallam Ado Bayero was born on June 15, 1930. He had worked with the British Bank for West Africa and had also been involved in 1949 with the

MONG industrial unions in the country, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) pack a lot of weight. Whenever they call their members out on strike, the nation trembles because they have the power to paralyse socio-economic activities. Whenever they announce their intentions to go on strike, the public becomes worried. The source of their worry is not farfetched. It has to do with the disruption in academic and socio-economic life during such strikes. ASUU and NUPENG’s strikes are usually devastating. As for ASUU, its strike disrupts the academic calendar of public universities, while that of NUPENG makes life generally difficult and frustrating for the people. When ASUU is on strike as it is now, public universities are virtually shutdown because nothing works during the period. Students are left to do their own thing and in such a situation, an idle mind become the devil’s workshop. Many students have becomes wayward all because they had nobody to guide them during such periods. It is not that ASUU should not go on strike whenever there is a compelling need for it, but it should be mindful of the consequences of its action not only on the students but also on the larger society. ASUU’s ongoing strike has to do with the 2009 agreement it signed with the Federal Government on how to revitalise the universities. What is delaying the implementation of this agreement, some four years after it was signed? The Onosode panel is believed to have smoothened the rough edges of the agreerment in order to facilitate its implementation. If this is so, why

Kano native authority which under Sir Fredrick Lugard had developed the Beit-el-mal (Native Treasury) to such an extent that the revenue of Kano was almost half of the revenue of the entire Northern Nigeria and the emir then earned slightly more than the Governor-General of Nigeria. To serve in the Kano native authority in the management cadre was not a little thing then. Later on, Ado Bayero went abroad for higher education in local government administration. On his return, he became the chief clerk of Kano town council. In 1954, he contested election into the Northern House of Assembly on the platform of the NPC (Northern People’s Congress) – Jamiyar Mutanen Arewa and of course won the election in grand style. He later resigned his membership of the House of Assembly to head the Kano native administration police. He held this post from 1957 to 1962 from where he was appointed Ambassador plenipotentiary and extraordinary of Nigeria to Senegal and it was from this post that he was called back home 50 years ago to be appointed Emir of Kano. His appointment was a wonderful choice especially at a time when Nigeria had just acceded to independence and the future looked very bright. He has been on the throne of Kano during which time Kano had witnessed great strides in its development, fortunes and misfortunes and the various vicissitudes of life that is the experience of any vibrant city. The industrial growth of Kano during his reign has been phenomenal so also has been the educational development with several high schools and two universities and industrial layout as well as commercial enterprises; Kano remains the second most important economic centre of the country after Lagos. Because of this, the city has attracted a lot of people mostly from other parts of Nigeria and a large population of Asians particularly Lebanese and Syrians. Kano has also witnessed the radicalisation of politics as manifested through various left-winged political parties starting from Alhaji Aminu Kano’s NEPU - Northern Element Progressive Union which later metamorphosed into the PRP – People’s Republican Party. The Emir has also lived through the regimes of several governors in Kano particularly colourful ones such as Abubakar Rimi and Bakin Zuwo to mention but a few. Through all these, this wise Emir has been able to maintain peace and concord amongst his own people even when he was challenged by radical politicians and by the Maitatsine riot of 1979/1980 when the emirate was plunged into violence. If not for the wisdom with which the emir handled the situation, the story would have been different. His recent escape from an assassination plot by the Boko Haram shows that this group has no respect for anybody. The people of

Kano rallied round their wise leader who in public statement displayed the greatest attribute of a great ruler when he said he fears nothing and whatever would be, would be and that his life is in the hands of Allah. His service to his people derives from Jide the ideas of noblesse Osuntokun oblige in which leadership goes with service to the people, in which leadership carries responsibilities which must be fearlessly discharged. Bayero has been a steady hand in the politics of Kano and one dares say in the politics of Nigeria. His friendship with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, the spiritual head of the Yoruba people is symbolic and it is his own way of helping himself and Alayeluwa Oba Okunade Sijuade, the Onirinsa of Ife, to cement the historic unity of the Yoruba and the Hausa which preceded the advent of British colonialism and a unity which is so desirable today if Nigeria is to survive. Alhaji Ado Bayero has also for years been chancellor of the premier university, the University of Ibadan. He has brought to the office the dignity and honour of a first class ruler and his wise counsel has been of great significance to the several administrations that have passed under his chancellorship. I had the privilege in 1981 or thereabouts, to attend an international conference on education with him in the United States and the dignity and glory he brought to this country remains indelible in my mind. Long live the Emir of Kano, Sai Sarkin Kano Alhaji Ado Bayero

‘Through all these, this wise Emir has been able to maintain peace and concord amongst his own people even when he was challenged by radical politicians and by the Maitatsine riot of 1979/1980 when the emirate was plunged into violence’

One season, two strikes

are we still hearing about ASUU strike? The government should do the needful to stop this incessant ASUU strike. Thank God that NUPENG has called off its own strike. We tend to blame the union for resorting to strike at the least provocation. Is it proper to do so if we don’t do what is right in order to prevent the strike in the first place? NUPENG may be doing things in excess at times, but is the blame really the union’s going by the way we handle such cases? But two strikes by two powerful unions at the same time does not augur well for the economy.

RE : Travails of a war hero

NO matter how people feel about Brig - Gen Benjamin Adekunle, what is for sure is that he cannot be ignored. Love him or hate him, the general commands a following not only among those who fought under him during the 1967 - 70 civil war, but also among the populace. Reactions were swift to the write up on him last week. Many of the respondents wondered why the nation treats its heroes with such contempt. They submitted that a man like Adekunle should not be allowed to suffer considering his sacrifice and that of others to ‘’keep Nigeria one’’. Others have a different view of the matter. But no matter our positions, the fact remains that Adekunle discharged his duty diligently to his fatherland during the war. Nothing can detract from the fact that he was a soldier’s soldier. He may have his faults like other human beings, but we cannot hold that against him at this hour

‘Two strikes by two powerful unions at the same time does not augur well for the economy.

that he needs the help of the nation that he served with all his ‘’heart and might’’. Do not let us waste our time by calling on the army authority or the present ruling class, let us call on the one and only Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assist this hero of our time. I know that he has a large and will be ready to do it. I don’t know how to reach him, but please relay this important Save Our Soul (SOS) to him. From Adetunji Folayan, Oworonsoki, Lagos (08033920391). Gen Adekunle’s case is pathetic and shameful. May God almighty come to his rescue. From Sam Adamu, Port Harcourt (08085588490) I read about Gen Adekunle and how he dealt with my people... I honestly don’t know what to feel for him. Well, as a student I can’t do much for him. However, I wish him well. From Ngwu Chukwuebuka (08133931248). Indeed, the country awaits the response of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS). I have today (June 27) again dropped another letter at the Army Headquarters in Abuja. I will not cease until the right thing is done. From Abiodun Adekunle (08067860987). Adekunle must not die. Should Gen Adekunle be left to die miserably, then Nigeria would have added a greater ‘’minus’’ to what Governor Fashola called empty ‘moral infrastructure’. I pray that, that does not happen. Where is is Gen Gowon while Gen Adekunle suffers? Where is Gen Obasanjo? Has he forgotten how Adekunle made victory easy for him towards the end of the war? Where is Gen Femi Williams while Gen Adekunle is in such a pathetic condition? Does he still remember what Adekunle did for him when he was wounded at the Owerri war front? Adekunle’s dynamic solutions to reviving the Nigerian Ports

Authority cannot be forgotten. The slogan ‘’to keep Nigeria one’’ was the only tonic that propelled Adekunle to shell Biafra to submission. I will not beg anybody to look back at Adekunle , but those who have left undone what they should do, will suffer from the memory of what Adekunle went through before the capture of Calabar and Port Harcourt. From Pa Odutayo, (08023149828). Who were the enemies? If he did all that, please tell him to do it again. How come the people he fought for cannot send him to Ghana? Also tell him tyo prepare for the main war. :08097153657. Adekunle was not fighting his enemies, but only fought to unify the country. From Rev Emon, Jos (08060198831). I am a 63-year-old wounded military pensioner on monthly payment of N21,000, just like most of my colleagues dead or alive. In 2010, President Goodluck Jonathan announced a 53 percent increase in military pension, but till date, the increase has not been effected . My fellow Nigerian, you will agree with me that Nigeria is not worth fighting or dying for. From Iduwe Sunday (08069187363).

Is it still a numbers’ game?

Bravo, Jonah Jang, the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF). If you don’t like that, then wait for the outcome of the case, which Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State instituted in court. If you don’t understand the position of First Lady, you can’t understand NGF’s position APC wants to use Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State against President Goodluck Jonathan and a focused Governor Jang, but we are wiser than him and his backers. 08055469972 The First Lady is probably reacting the same way any woman

Lawal Ogienagbon

lawal.ogienagbon@thenationonlineng.net SMS ONLY: 08099400204

would have reacted if her husband is being disrespected by someone junior to him no matter that person’s position. Your write - up would have carried more weight if you had been seen in the past condemning the governors talking down at the president. 0818884775. No, it is no longer a numbers’ game although 16 can be reversed to read and mean 19, thereby becoming ‘Jona Jang Theorem’. From Pa Odutayo (08023149828). We in Port Harcourt are ‘solidly’ behind President Jonathan. 08035450232. The year 2015 is by the corner, let us show them what failure is. 08054026170.

A lion in winter

Mandela is a transparent person. Because of his transparency, he was honoured by the United Kingdom. As a true leader, he left office after serving one term. If it is possible, Mandela should live forever, but then death is inevitable. From Sylvester, Libolo Edda, Ebonyi State (08179754774). Indeed, Mandela is a super man; an icon. From Charles Umeadi, Port Harcourt (08187104543). Can we ever get a man like Madiba? Everyday, I pray for him, forgetting my own challenges. 08072305653.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

COMMENTS

OR close to three years of Boko Haram insurgency, it has been a daily harvest of deaths. In churches, mosques, markets, motor parks, police stations, prisons and even inside fortified military barracks, it is the same terrible tales of mindless killings. This has continued unabated even with the President’s belated declaration of a state emergency in the troubled areas some three weeks back. Last weekend in Zabarmari ward of Maiduguri metropolis, the Joint Task Force (JTF) on Boko Haram claimed 50 members of the dreaded group were killed during a clash. A week earlier, we were told about 40 were killed in a similar encounter. The flow of refugees within and outside the country has continued unabated. The battle rages on even with deployment of fighter jets and attack helicopters. We have no evidence that the insurgency has been weakened, neither have they renounced their demand for the Islamisation of the country. What is no more in dispute after three weeks of hostility is that we are engaged in a civil war. And what this called for is that all hands must be on the deck. Of course the opposition must keep the ruling party on its toes. It must do everything short of undermining our sovereignty to discredit the ruling party so that they can take over power. In America, the self-proclaiming guardian of democracy, the Republican Party that piled up 16 trillion debts, took their country to two senseless wars are doing everything to discredit the Obama administration. But at the outset of the senseless external war, Americans along with various institutions including the media and even religious groups presented a common front. That is what our nation needs today. But tragically, the opposition, in the last four weeks, has been behaving as if the battle to dislodge PDP is not about Nigeria and Nigerians. I think the president who after two years of praying for miracle has now decided to confront those who declared war against the nation deserves a break. He had been accused even by leading members of his party of incompetence for failing to deal decisively with Boko Haram. Even the northern leaders who sent their children to the best schools in the world with state funds while institutionalizing a culture of almajiri at home blamed President Jonathan for the social dislocation of their society. The president was asked to embrace dialogue, but dialogue failed to move the religious fundamentalists. He was pressurized to grant amnesty along the lines of what obtained in Niger Delta, but this only led to the intensification of war against innocent Nige-

Boko Haram: Buhari’s odious comparison rians. Those who institutionalized poverty by misapplication of their state resources while only 27% of children of school age Borno are in school, suggested poverty alleviation and building of mobile schools for the itinerant almajiris. But Boko Haram became more emboldened as they chased pupils and teachers out before setting the schools ablaze. While all this was going on, there was a culture of criminal silence among northern leaders. Those who managed to speak spoke from both sides of the mouth, blaming President Jonathan for their four decades of betrayal of the people of the north. Jonathan’s sin was upstaging the northern parasites in their game of political subterfuge. And finally when Buhari, often a victim of selective perception spoke, he made an odious comparison. Like a leader who only listens to himself, he declared “You see in the case of the Niger Delta militants, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua sent an airplane to bring them, he sat down with them and discussed with them, they were cajoled, and they were given money and granted amnesty.” They were trained in some skills and were given employment, but the ones in the north are being killed and their houses demolished. They are different issues, what brought this? It is injustice”. I sympathize with General Buhari, the author of ‘Nigerians have no other country but Nigeria’. He has always been passionate about Nigeria. But his greatest undoing has been the fact that he was ill-trained, illequipped and ill-tempered to manage society. It is most unlikely that Buhari’s last three attempts at the presidency, his lamentation

NDEED, if His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Abdulfatah, Governor of Kwara State were to be an athlete, he would be in a blistering form in the 100 metres dash, just as the 4X400 metres relay race would comfortably occupy pole position in his competitive athletic menu list. Interestingly, both require enormous speed and endurance, but more than anything else, focus. No doubt, in the last one year, this gentleman has displayed these traits in surplus; the reason he has so far surpassed expectations before and after his victory in the April 26, 2011 gubernatorial election in the state on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Recall that when politicians and technocrats from Kwara State and beyond converged in Lagos for a retreat to draw a roadmap on the Kwara Project after the elections, many dismissed it as a jamboree; describing it as one of those timewasting talk shops that would not impact positively on the people. In fact, as was with the governor’s “Legacy Continues” slogan premised on the benefits of one administration furrowing into another in terms of policy formulation and implementation, as well as programme actualization, many saw it as another political mantra to cajole the electorate. The doubts arose particularly as most new governments in Nigeria were in the habit of steering away from the programmes of the out-going government and often rubbished their actions and programmes by any way possible. However, as opposed to this common practice, the Ahmed’s administration chanted the continuity mantra and stuck to it being in the know of its benefits to the people. Little wonder, two years down the foray, for the discerning, the administration has substantially acquitted itself by upping the ante of development in many sectors of the Kwara economy with the monumental developmental benchmark set by the immediate past administration of Dr Bukola Saraki as a guide. Starting out with the Lagos Summit which gave birth to the shared prosperity of the administration as a spring board for the formulation, implementation and actualization of the administration’s programmes and policies, all eyes were fastened on the transformation agenda of the government. With a policy thrust that leverages resources and takes advantage of the strength of the state for economic growth, human capital development and youth empowerment, strategic infrastructure and effective governance, all of which fuse with the Shared Prosperity Programme of the administration, happy days, indeed, have come. While deepening and strengthening commercial agriculture through private sector initiative to drive the economy of the state and in turn, create jobs and ensure food security, the government has completed the International Diagnostic Centre, flagged-off of the inaugural flight by student-pilots of the aviation college, completed the Micheal Imoudu/ Offa garage road

about travails of a well -endowed nation repeatedly raped by its incompetent and unambitious leaders, his public shedding of tears over the nation’s woes could have just been informed by a desire to protect the interest of his highly visible and powerful Fulani minority ethnic group or the current crop of Jihadists who operate only on the basis of their narrow interpretation and understanding of the Holy Koran. My suspicion is that, besides being illequipped, Buhari like most new converts of new religion, merely mouths democracy without comprehending what it entails. For instance, for him, multi-partysm and free election equal democracy. He is not bothered about the subject matter of democracy such as fundamental human rights, equality, liberty and justice and freedom from government which favours rulers and their friends just as it was during his short reign in 1995 and just as it has been under successive PDP presidents in the last 14 years. It will be ironic for a man who is so passionate about his country, if in the words of Orisetjiofor, CAN president could ‘oppose a state of emergency when some parts of Borno and Yobe states had been occupied and the Nigerian flag replaced with theirs, burnt churches, schools, government institutions, killed innocent Christians, attacked traditional rulers and others not sympathetic to their cause’. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-religious society. Any political party that intends to rule Nigeria cannot afford to ignore any interest group. Democracy after all is a game of number and to ensure a sense of belonging, our founding fathers designed

Kwara’s transformation testimony By Wahaab Oba among other road projects started by the immediate past government, as part of the continuity agenda. The administration’s high value on the 500 metres concept, especially as it affects its health and water supply policies spurred it on to consolidate on the achievements of the previous administration in the area of healthcare. In its first phase, the administration embarked on a robust rehabilitation of the five General Hospitals across the three senatorial districts of the state at the cost of N1.6 billion with more General Hospitals to follow in the second phase. The governor explained that the logic behind the concept is that no Kwaran should go beyond 500 metres to access quality healthcare. Already, plans are in top gear for the start of the Community-based Healthcare Insurance Scheme, which has already undergone pilot shape. With matchless vigour, Dr Ahmed pursues his dreams of human capital development and youth empowerment. Like squeezing water out of stone, quite a number of investors are now keen on coming to the state. There is a N70 billion agreement on large-scale farming with Valsolar, a Spanish Consortium. The agreement has since been commended by stakeholders in the agriculture sector, just as the federal government through the Minister of Agriculture, Akinwumi Adesina signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the state government on the production and cultivation of cassava on commercial scale in the state. Today, Kwara State produces about 40 tonnes per hectare, which is far above national average. The beauty of the Valsolar/ Kwara State government partnership lies in the fact that the Spanish consortium got to know about Kwara State’s potentials in agriculture through the Spanish Embassy in Nigeria. Another dividend of the administration’s policy on agriculture was the interest of Mosilo Group in building an Agro-Processing complex in Share in Ifelodun council area of the state. The 600 tonnes complex with over $150 million capital outlay for its first phase will change the status of Nigeria to the largest producer of cassava in the world. Instructively, the efforts of the governor has not gone unnoticed as he was awarded the Outstanding Agriculture Icon of the Year 2011, for his contributions to the country’s agricul-

for us a federal arrangement that guarantees a place for individual and groups. Buhari may have his own personal failings, but I think he will remain a great asset to his new party as role model for multitude of miracle seekers all over the country who like him are not democrats but passionate believers in the potentials of our nation. Buhari, imprisoned with his narrow Fulani ethnic culture and religious world, left unaided cannot see anything outside this prism. But he has always excelled in nearly all assignments delegated to him. He was installed as head of state by professional coupists, Babangida and Abacha with little knowledge of their agenda. As minister for petroleum for four years, we exported refined fuel along with crude oil. As Head of State for eight months, we did not import grains. In fact storage facility for excess grains became our problem. Similarly, as chairman of Abacha’s Petroleum Trust Fund, Buhari performed creditably well. As a Nigerian military commander, he drove insurgents that attacked Nigeria from northern Cameroon during Shagari era far into Cameroon territory. Even by his own admission, his joining partisan politics was not of his own initiative but that of others. According to him “his close associates and those who knew him very well convinced him to join partisan politics”. And as man not versed in the acts of compromise, the hallmark of democratic process, but passionate about our country and its potentials, he moved from APP to ANPP, CPC and soon to APC. In his new party, Buhari must allow for a generational change as those who manage the world today are in their 30s and 40s while he provides leadership and moral support just as Asiwaju Tinubu now does for his highly competent and well equipped ACN governors.

‘Even by his own admission, his joining partisan politics was not of his own initiative but that of others. According to him “his close associates and those who knew him very well convinced him to join partisan politics”’

tural development by the African Leadership Magazine in Washington DC, United States of America in April last year. To boost water supply, the administration provided water booster station at Western Reservoir in Ilorin and Anberi to boost water supply to Ajasse-Ipo and environs. It also carried out comprehensive rehabilitation of 15 water works and sunk 300 boreholes across the State. On the area of manpower, which the government sees as critical to the actualization of its robust policies, it has expedited action on the take-off of the School of Nursing, Oke-Ode to complement the College of Nursing, Ilorin, in the training of qualified nurses and midwives. On the area of water supply, the reticulation of water pipes in Ilorin metropolis has continued in high pace while boreholes have been dug for many communities to ensure availability and access to pipe borne water. In the last count, no fewer than 14 water works were rehabilitated while 38 others were committed to the National Grid. It is worthy of note that in the last nine years or so, Kwara State has been reputed for road construction. The tempo has been nourished under the present administration. The Ahmed administration has done over 800 kilometres of roads in the three senatorial districts to open the state further for agricultural development and economic growth. Over 300 of these are feeder and access roads purposed to create the desired value chain. In the KulendeOyun bridge axis of Old-Jebba road in Ilorin, a federal road that was a nightmare for motorists due to monumental traffic snarl, today, the story is different. The state government carried out expansion work on a long stretch of the road at a cost of N200million and traffic congestion on the road has since disappeared. Again, the government has rehabilitated more than 400 classrooms in 58 schools while about N24 million was spent on the payment of National Examination Council (NECO) and National Board for Technical Education (NABTEB) fees for 3,126 students. At the tertiary education level, fees of Kwara indigenes at the Kwara State University Malete was reduced from N180,000.00 to N95,000.00 to the relief of parents and guardians. The government also offered Bursary Award to students of Kwara State origin. The subventions of state-owned tertiary institutions were increased by 50% to boost the financial strength of the institutions. Still poised to reflect the new education policy based on capacity building with a technical education bias, technical schools in ErinIle, Ilorin and Patigi are being rehabilitated and equipped to produce well trained manpower, while an International Vocational Centre at Ajasse-Ipo, in Irepodun local government of the state is under construction. On the economic front, Kwara State remains a beautiful bride for investors and banking institutions who want to partake in the actualization of the state’s potentials. • Oba is Chief Press Secretary to Kwara State governor

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

COMMENTS

THE world has no mercy on the stagnant. Human development in particular has no mercy on those who commit the terrible sin of standing stagnant. Whoever or whichever people, is not moving forward, is actually falling back, and will be pushed further back by others. That is the law of the dynamics of human progress. In some years in recent times, we, the Yoruba, allowed ourselves and our economy to lose our cutting edge position in Nigeria. As a result, we suffer today a degree of poverty and disrespect that we have never experienced before in our history. My past two messages urged that we must speedily revive farming in our South-west, in order to enhance significantly our production of our staple food crops as well as our export crops. My central message in both messages and in today’s message remains the same: Let us put more energy and spirit into our struggle for the revival of our economic strength and self-reliance in the South-west; if we do, we are capable of achieving an enormous lot within a short time. Our people are living in undeserved poverty, but we can fight poverty off in no time. Thank God that in spite of all the battering that we have suffered in recent years, we still command our fundamental strengths. We still command the strengths not merely to recover, but also to rise to new heights. Thank God too, that we are already beginning now to embark on the struggle for recovery. Yes, a new spirit of struggle is on the rise among Yoruba folks at home and abroad. The information concerning this rising spirit of struggle is for now uncoordinated. However, in every direction one turns these days, one can feel it very clearly and powerfully. For instance, in a recent World Bank publication, money transferred by Nigerians living abroad to their homeland is reported to have hit the 21 billion US Dollars mark in the past year – that is, roughly 3,200,000,000,000 Nigerian Naira. This is larger than the annual budget of a number of Nigerian states put together. It is not exactly known how much of this is from the

‘We need to grasp the lesson from this. The lesson is that any Nigerian nationality or group that is absolutely resolved to make progress and snatch its people out of poverty can accomplish its goal’

HE Federal Government of Nigeria on May 14, declared a state of emergency in three states north-eastern states. The comments I want to make are not directed to ‘fire brigade’ action. I am more interested in the perhaps less exciting subject of constitution making. And the angle from which I am approaching this matter is that Nigeria has been in crises right from the beginning. Certain individuals only recently were reported to have threatened ‘fire and brimstone’ should they fail to have their way in matters that concern all Nigerians. I refer the reader to the comments as contained in The Guardian editorial of Monday, May 13, under the title ‘Kuku, Asari-Dokubo and the limits of blackmail’. The comments responded to the threats made by these named individuals, “against the background of the fragility of Nigeria’s security today...” It was pointed out that, such threats that there won’t be peace in the land if so-and-so did not happen, is not new; that supposedly respectable persons had also in the past adopted the practice of blackmail. A lot of commentators point to constitutional imbalances as the cause of our crises and, in consequence, argue for a constitutional conference to address the problem. I agree with this conclusion, however, reject one thesis in particular, put forward in making the case for a new constitution. My interest therefore is to draw attention to one or more misconceptions that have attended the argumentation in favour of a constitutional re-balancing. The case for a national self-reflection of a fundamental sort indeed makes itself in the light of the on-going crises. Not intending to rehash the substantive arguments for a constitutional conference, I would nonetheless refer to some of the matters that have been adduced as grounds for it, and for negating it. I am in doing so rather inspired by this dictum of Francis Bacon that “Truth emerges more readily from error than from confusion”. It would seem to follow that we should guard more vigorously against confusions. Whatever the case, the important point is really for the need for some vision on the part of our leaders. A clarity of vision requires first and foremost an understanding of where one is coming from

Gbogun gboro - 3 Battle cry is ‘self-reliance’ Yoruba Diaspora to their families and relatives back home, but all indications are that that must be substantial. The contemporary Yoruba Diaspora worldwide is very large, numbering an estimated 1.5 million in America, Canada and Europe together, and probably another quarter of a million in other parts of the world. Money routinely sent home by this large number of Yoruba men and women abroad has, for many years, been a major source of support to Yoruba families in the desperate economic situation in Nigeria. Now, the available information indicates that this support from abroad is rising significantly. That is great news indeed. But the contribution of the Yoruba Diaspora from abroad to the growing spirit of struggle in Yorubaland is not limited to money transfers. Increasingly these days, more and more of the folks abroad are giving intellectually sophisticated attention to the situation back home. Just over a month ago, a think-tank group of Yoruba intellectuals from all over the world gathered in a suburb of Wilmington in Delaware, USA, and spent two days in solid consideration of all aspects of Yoruba prospects in Nigeria. Their communiqué, representing perhaps the most incisive proposals of socio-economic development in any part of Nigeria since the Awolowo years, holds out very high hopes for the revival of Yoruba strength and the rise of the Yoruba nation to great new heights. And the think-tank group that held this Delaware conference is by no means the only one of its kind among Yoruba people abroad; some others like it exist in different parts of the world. And even much bigger than any think-tank are the general Yoruba descendants associations, or Egbe, in various countries of the world. Of such Egbe, the largest and most influential is the ‘Egbe Omo Yoruba United States and Canada’, the prestigious umbrella association of all Yoruba people living in North America. In the rising struggle for the economic revival of the Yoruba nation, this association represents a powerful assemblage of resources and capabilities. It is a giant. And that giant, from what one is hearing among some of its prominent leaders these days, is rousing itself for the battle for the revival of the Yoruba nation. Happily, very happily, the biggest news of change and of growing hope is coming from the home front itself. Bit by bit, in this direction

and that, the state governments of the Yoruba South-west are returning to the high quality of striving, venturing and hope that were characteristic of the government of our Western Region of the 1950s. Naturally, the specifics vary from state to state, but altogether they paint a picture of change and rising hope. Each state government is upgrading transportation and communication in its state by constructing a network of good-quality new roads. Each is taking its own kind of step towards a higher quality of education, and towards a higher quality of healthcare delivery. Some are combating agricultural revival boldly, and fighting with the best of their capabilities. And it is very important indeed that all this initial progress and change is taking place in the context of the Nigeria of today – the Nigeria of political, economic and social chaos, the Nigeria of perpetual federal disruption and obstruction of progress in its component states. We need to grasp the lesson from this. The lesson is that any Nigerian nationality or group that is absolutely resolved to make progress and snatch its people out of poverty can accomplish its goal. Of course, federal Nigeria will obstruct and disrupt, and the various component nationalities, rather than stand up for each other’s freedom of action, will mindlessly contribute to the obstruction and disruption. In spite of all these, the will to succeed will succeed. If we, the people of the South-west, regardless of our partisan political stands, would form the habit of standing up together to insist that our state governments be allowed to perform, we will curb the ability of Nigeria to disrupt or obstruct our progress. The time to start doing that has come. As an old citizen of the South-west, I assume that I am allowed to say such things as this – namely, that from my assessment of all the welcome changes and progress that are starting in all our states, I have my favourite state. Osun is not my home state, but Osun State is my favourite state these days. If you travel abroad and talk to Yoruba people in country after country, you will find that most of the growing excitement among them about our states at this point is about Osun State. The men and women directing the affairs of Osun State have caught a big scoop of the spirit that blessed our life as a nation during our pre-colonial cen-

Let not the ‘current’ crises go to waste By Bonaventure Oti and, secondly, where one wants to go. I wish in this regard to disavow some of the propositions put forward by Professor Ogundowole of the University of Lagos in his essay titled: ‘Conference of the sovereigns is inevitable’, in The Punch newspaper in May 8-9. The case for a properly executed conference for the purpose of instituting a sound basis for a stable and viable future should be made with the acute awareness that there are no easy answers to the task of building a modern political community. If there should be one single cause for the general malaise in Nigeria, I would put my finger on immorality, social and political. But then morality is an abstract concept, which, without more may not help us in our search for solutions to concrete problems. However, because ideas, it has been said, rule the world and, according to the philosopher Shelling, the only thing that infuses action with “energy and ethical significance”, the specific political-constitutional question(s) confronting us can only be approached initially abstractly. Political morality: what is it? An unavoidable question, which is to be considered in context. Constitutionalism as a principle, the idea of limited government or a government under the rule of the law is a derivative of the idea of political morality. A glaring example of a practice opposed to political morality is the case referred to above of certain individuals using blackmail to gain political advantage. The openness to negotiation and compromise and the preparedness for talks, coupled with the humility required to engage others in reasonable arguments, are the hallmarks of the practice of political morality. The argument is made that it lies within the province of the elected representatives of the

people to choose to or not to deliberate about the all-too-familiar fundamental constitutional questions. In regard to this, it is worth emphasizing that whilst errors and confusions may be excusable, dishonesty is quite a different matter. Anyone capable of intellectual dishonesty and lacking a sense of personal integrity is not fit to hold a public office at any level of political life. The National Assembly’s claim to sovereignty is in respect to law making only; in like manner, the legitimate powers of the Federal Government and state governments are in respect to governance respectively of the Nigerian State and the states. But sovereignty as such, i.e. unlimited and unqualified, derives, as it is stated in the Constitution, from the peoples of Nigeria. The simple explanation (which most Nigerians can understand) why the National Assembly is not apt to make this new constitution is that the questions to be addressed are much more fundamental than the power to make laws, execute and adjudicate on them. Regarding the question of the structure of Nigeria in relation to the constitutional question, I will for the sake of brevity restrict myself to only one issue raised in Professor Ogundowole’s essay. I agree of course entirely with the conclusion as it relates to the desirability of a properly convened national constitutional conference. However, I do shrink from the unmitigated focus on the nationality question. Problematizing national identities can only lead to uneasy relationships amongst different groups. My position is not to deny or erase ‘the reality’ of different nationalities, corresponding to different cultural, ethnic and other identities. The point to note is that most, if not all, modern states are characterised by a multiplicity of different identities, including that of ethnicity. It is the challenge of statecraft to seek to find the possibility of a common life amongst different peoples.

Gbogun gboro turies and during our 1950s – the Yoruba spirit of progress, prosperity and pride. They are talking very seriously of their desire to make their state the “food basket” for us all, and they are exploring various promising policies to make it happen. They are equipping their school children to learn better by supplying them with the advanced learning tool which they call “Opon Imo”. They are bringing Yoruba culture and history into the curriculum of their schools in a way that our other states are yet to grasp. They are considering daring transportation ideas, including a rail connection that will haul food to our great metropolis of Lagos. They are considering ways to stimulate entrepreneurship and business development among their citizens, and to stimulate industrial growth. On the whole, Osun State is becoming, among us, the state to emulate. In all our states, we are only at the inception of this revival. We are not yet near – we can’t yet even see –the peak of the new era of change, progress and hope; but we have started the climb up towards it. We will climb faster upwards when the masses of our common people catch the fever and take on the climbing – because it is the masses of our people that will ultimately take the climbing to the point when modern farms will spread out as endless green fields in all seasons all over our homeland; when small modern businesses will sprout and flourish in all our towns and villages; when inventions of new products and new processes will become common-place in our economic culture; and when the older ones among us will be able to breathe a sigh of relief and say, “Thank God, we have passed through, and survived, that awful desert and its disorienting storms; we have regained our land of promise, progress and hope”. In as much as I am strongly committed to making the case for a constitutional conference, I believe too in the imperative of the right culture of politics – the ideal of a political morality. There can be no substitute for it regardless of the unity or diversity of any nation-state. I assume that Nigerians want to live in and be part of the modern world. Modernity requires the capacity to be outward-looking and to assume different identities. Our politics must be able to transcend identity politics. If one should think that I am being utopian, I would be quick to raise my hand in acknowledgment. But I ask this - how else do you bring about any positive change through politics, without some sense of idealism - as opposed to some spurious realism. Professor Ogundowole has faith only in what he describes as the individuation of nation states. Taking this doctrine to its logical conclusion would mean that we ought to have over 250 nation states in Nigeria. He referred to the case of the United Kingdom, and is enamoured of the Scottish Independent Party’s drive for independence. However, some Scots are making the case for independence on grounds other than their scottishness, namely, economic and other arguments. A union that has lasted over 300 years could not have been a terribly dysfunctional and an unhappy arrangement. • Oti, BL, LLM, Solicitor, wrote from Manchester, England

‘The National Assembly’s claim to sovereignty is in respect to law making only; in like manner, the legitimate powers of the Federal Government and state governments are in respect to governance respectively of the Nigerian State and the states. But sovereignty as such, i.e. unlimited and unqualified, derives, as it is stated in the Constitution, from the peoples of Nigeria’

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NATION SPORT THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

THE NATION

EDUCATION Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com

THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

email:- education@thenationonlineng.com

The decision of the House of Representatives to investigate the discriminatory cut-off marks for admissions into Federal Government Colleges (FGCs) has renewed the debate about the elevation of the federal character principle above merit. The issue also raises a question on whether some states are really educationally disadvantaged.

HOUGH the admissions policy of the 104 Federal Government Colleges (FGCs), also known as Unity Schools, has been in existence for over 40 years, concerns about the discriminatory cut-off marks for states have always been a contentious issue. Many parents find it difficult to believe that their children who did well in the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) may not be admitted because of where they come from, while those with “ridiculously” low marks are admitted because they are from “educationally disadvantaged” states. Last week, Hon Afam Ogene, who represents Anambra State in the House of Representatives, Abuja, drew the attention of his colleagues to this anomaly during plenary. To gain admission into the Unity Schools, the cut-off mark system requires candidates from states in the Southeast, Southwest to score significantly higher marks than their counterparts from the North or those states tagged “educationally-less-developed states (ELDS) in the NCEE conducted by the National Examinations Council (NECO). For instance, while candidates from Anambra State must score at least 139, which is the highest for any state, those from Jigawa need 44 marks to qualify for admission into the colleges. Yobe has the lowest cut-off, two. Other states with low cut-off marks are: Taraba (3), Zamfara (4), Kebbi (9) and Sokoto (9). To be representational of Nigeria as conceived by Gen Yakubu Gowon when the Unity Schools were started in the 60s, each college admits based on the following criteria: 30 per cent on merit; 30 per cent, state quota; 30 per cent, environment; and 10 per cent exigency. Explaining the quota policy, the Principal of King’s College, Lagos, Otunba Dele Olapeju, said the 30 per cent admitted on merit can gain admission into the colleges of their choice, irrespective of their states of origin if they excel well above the cut-off mark of their states. He said the state quota criterion requires the colleges to select 30 per cent of their candidates from each state of the federation; while the environment criterion is reserved for candidates from the host state/community of the college. The 10 per cent criterion is based on exigencies. Nigerians are divided on the propriety of the discriminatory cut-off marks policy. While many told The Nation that the policy should be abolished because it does not allow for a level-playing field, others favour it because of the opportunity it provides for children from educationally backward states. Olapeju said contrary to belief, candidates from the North with poor scores are not admitted into the college. “What we do in selecting candidates admitted on state and environmental bases is to pick those with the best scores that applied from each state. None of the candidates scored zero,” he said.

Unused slots

•A teacher taking a junior class at Queen’s College, Yaba, Lagos

The unending row over Unity Schools’ cut-off marks By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie, Adegunle Olugbamila, Nicholas Kalu (Calabar), Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, (Nnewi), Osagie Otabor (Benin), Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke (Umuahia), Adamu Suleiman (Sokoto), Clarice Azuatalam (Port Harcourt), Tony Akowe (Kaduna), Kazeem Ibrahym (Uyo) and Damisi Ojo (Akure). Dr. Ahmaad Rufai of the Faculty of Education, Lagost State University (LASU) describes the unused slots as ‘educational wastage.’ “How could you just allocate slots which are hardly utilised to some sections of the country

‘

Though the state admissions criterion stipulates that pupils be admitted from every state, this is not always the case. Many pupils no longer travel a far distance to attend Unity Schools. Many favour schools nearby. As a result, some states do not fill their quota.

where there are others who are eligible but can’t just fill them because of the prevailing quota system? It is simply a way of compromising standards and giving room to mediocres,” he said. Despite the cut-off marks favouring

We must not throw merit overboard in attaining federal character. We cannot continue to use federal character to assure people of access. The incentive must be provided for people to strive and excel. The system suffers when mediocrity turns out to be the product of our educational processes

‘CAMPUS LIFE

INSIDE

Alumni condemn closure of institution THE alumni association of the Federal College of Education, Obudu, Cross River State, has condemned the closure of the institution by the Internal Revenue Service over alleged non-remittance of tax. -Page 27

northerners, a group, Tambarin Arewa Development Association in Lagos, is complaining that pupils from the North are denied access to the Unity Schools as their quotas are given to southerners. In a statement signed by Mustapha Ibrahim Mai-Gandi, the group said: “The merit quota is usually taken by up candidates of southern states due to their educational advantage. However, northern states are equally shortchanged under the state quota criterion that is supposed to be shared among the 36 states based on their cut-off marks. It is discovered that most of the students admitted under this criterion are from the South. “It is very common and amazing to see Ikechukwu or Adewunmi or Esther taking up the Sokoto or Yobe State slots whereas the said candidates have no link whatsoever with those states. An example of this anomaly can be seen in the admission list of Queen’s College and King’s College, Lagos over the last six or seven years. In fact, this year’s admission into the two

•A 10-page section on campus news, people etc

Ebonyi college demotes 15 for forgery FIFTEEN lecturers of the Ebonyi State College of Education, Ikwo, have been demoted over alleged certificate forgery. -Page 37

•Continued on page 26

A race for life -Page 29

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

EDUCATION

•Tambuwal

•Education Minister, Prof Ruqayyat Ahmed Rufa’i

•Mr Nyesom Wike, Minister of State for Education

The unending row over Unity Schools’ cut-off marks •Continued from page 25 schools both at JS & SS levels points to the same direction. “As regards the issue of merit quota, we equally discovered that some candidates from the North are equally shortchanged under this criterion after meeting the merit quota requirement. A typical example is the case of a JS1 candidate from Kebbi State (Nasiru Munira Aisha) who scored 165 marks out of 200 in the Common Entrance Examination. “With this result, such candidate clearly qualifies for the merit list, but instead she was offered admission under Kebbi State quota slot at Queen’s College. This clearly stops other qualified candidates from Kebbi to make the state quota. In fact, we have candidates from the same Kebbi State that met the State Quota requirement but were not offered admission as a result of this. “We are of the opinion that even if those states affected did not fill any candidate for such examination or do not meet the admission requirement, their slots could be filled by other qualified candidates from their zone or other means of filling their slots other than quota will be found,” it said. Reacting to the group’s claims, Olapeju said parents from other parts of the country fill in northern states for their children to take advantage of the low cut-off marks and gain admission. He said the issue is tricky and requires the school to be careful because of constitutional provisions that allow them to claim a state where they were born as theirs. “This issue can be very tricky because of the constitutional provision that if someone has lived in a state for long and had all his children there, he can claim the place as the state of origin. “Some parents use this trick. They claim other states for their children because of the low cutoff marks,” he said. However, he said efforts are made to determine whether the pupils are really from the states they claim.

Proponents of cut-off mark policy Chairman of the King’s College Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Mr Emmanuel Oriakhi said the cut-off mark issue is exaggerated. Like Olapeju, he said nobody is admitted from educationally-disadvantaged states with poor scores. He said the number admitted on this basis is negligible and should not be made an issue. He said the Federal Character principle has to exist for the schools to fulfil the purpose of admitting pupils from all states. This notwithstanding, he said, it does not affect merit. “This idea of the cut-off mark is being misrepresented. People are now looking at the extremes – like comparing a candidate who scored 130 to one who scored zero. There is nothing like a candidate with two marks. There has to be differential grades because of the Federal Character principle. That does not mean that merit is being jeopardised. The number of those admitted from these zones is insignificant. For instance, nobody that scores less than 100 from any state is admitted at King’s College. Nobody can be admitted on the cut-off mark of two. The cut-off mark for any state is about 160 and above. But there is usually concession for those from educationally-less developed states,” he said. If the goal of admitting pupils from all over

Nigeria is to be achieved, Olapeju said merit cannot be the sole criterion as performance in the NCEE has consistently shown that candidates from some states outperformed others. “For instance, in the last examination, out of 6,000 candidates that made the national cut-off, Anambra State had the lion’s share. Between Imo and Anambra, they took a sixth of the national merit. You cannot blame them for being brilliant. However, if all Anambra candidates are admitted, there will be no Unity Colleges,” he said. The renewed interest in the policy after so many years came as a surprise to some people. At the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC) in Abuloma, Rivers State, the principal refused to speak on the issue. However, a worker said: “These press people are always looking for someone to sack from work. Is it today that that policy came up? I wonder why they are just realising that that policy is very discriminatory. It has been there and if our people have been tolerating it all these years why are they agitating against it now.” Mrs Pat Kodu, who retired from one of the colleges, also wondered at the interest. She asked: “Why are our people just raising eyebrows against this policy now? It was put in place when the Unity Schools were established and nobody carried placards against it then. Why now?” Many parents, teachers and stakeholders are satisfied with the discriminatory cutoff arrangement as they believe it allows those who would ordinarily not have entered the colleges to gain admission. A parent who refused to be named and whose child attends one of the schools in Sokoto, said what favoured his child for admission was the environmental factor. “I am from Edo State by origin and I happen to give birth to all my children in Sokoto where I have stayed for over 30 years. This is what qualified my child to secure admission, despite the cut off marks of my state,” he said. Hon Ogene may be miffed that Anambra candidates have to work harder, but to Governor Peter Obi, it is evidence that the state is doing well educationally. Speaking at the distribution of N2.53 billion rehabilitation grant to all public schools, Obi said the good performance was evidence that reforms in public and missionary schools as well as private schools made Anambra pupils come tops in the NCEE. Chief Abdulsalam Suleiman, Chairman, FGC, Sokoto Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), believes that the policy is not meant to discriminate but to correct the inequality in the standard of education as well as discourage the existing gap nationwide. He said rather than dwell on the discriminatory policy, stakeholders should fast-track development in disadvantaged states by providing adequate and necessary facilities and qualified manpower in schools to make the system

more attractive and competitive. “I believe a committee was set up to advise the government before the policy was enforced. It is not meant to punish others. We are all Nigerians and no section of the country will want to remain at a disadvantage. It is for the good of the country”, he said. Alhaji Muhammed Ahmed, Chairman, SchoolBased Management Committee, FGGC, Bakori, Kaduna State, and a retired Director of Education, described the policy as logical, considering the North/South education development divide. “We have several FGCs across the country. As you know, Nigeria is a federal structure with differences in educational attainment. I think it is logical based on Federal Character to relate the performance of say Kwara State with that of Borno State. For example, western education started in Badagry in 1841, while in the North here, western education started in 1907. Study the difference. So, that cut off mark is logical and fair. You cannot compare the performance of a child in Katsina or Jigawa state with a child in Lagos. There is a big difference and so, I think it is fair to reduce the cut off mark. The student who is coming with a low performance should strive to catch up with others when he gets to school and ask many questions while trying to identify the intelligence in him,” he said. Though not a fan of the Federal Character principle, Vice-Chancellor of the Sokoto State University Prof Nuhu Yaqub said the admissions policy should remain to help the goal of unifying Nigeria.

Opponents of the cut-off mark policy For those who dislike the policy, they argue that it promotes mediocrity. They said despite favouring ELDS for decades, those states are yet to develop educationally. Former Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of Edo State Dr. Osagie Obayuwana said the cut-off mark policy, like the federal character principle, only complicates Nigeria’s problems. He said: “We must not throw merit overboard in attaining federal character. We cannot continue to use federal character to assure people of access. The incentive must be provided for people to strive and excel. The system suffers when mediocrity turns out to be the product of our educational processes. Those who are given preferential consideration as far as admission is concerned ought to appreciate they are going to meet challenges and they have some catching up to do so that we are not faced with a situation when somebody gets admission on a quota basis, they will be among the first to get appointment on quota basis. There is no doubt that part of the challenges Nigeria faces at the moment is mediocrity rule traceable to quota and federal character business.” For Njom Nyambi, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Cross River State wing, ELDS

‘This idea of the cut-off mark is being misrepresented. People are now looking at the extremes – like comparing a candidate who scored 130 to one who scored zero. There is nothing like a candidate with two marks’

do not exist, so, the cut-off should be jettisoned. “The people are just trying to be funny. There is no educationally disadvantaged state. All these pupils are the same. The situation is just like depriving some people of their rights and if the Unity schools should have an admissions policy it should be uniform throughout the country. They should not give priority to some people and some other people are treated as if they are second class citizens. I feel it is not fair on some pupils who have to study so hard to score high marks to gain admission while some other pupils elsewhere just get through for scoring very low marks. Today, there are so many professors in the North and they are still calling them disadvantaged states. It is not correct. Everyone should be treated on the same pedestal for the sake of unity,” he said. The FGC, Sokoto PTA Chairman, Chief Suleiman, also pointed out that there is no scientific proof to the term “educationally disadvantaged”, describing the term as derogatory. The issue, he said, had been given political status rather then academic, arguing that many northerners have performed well academically. “It is to a large extent derogatory to peg a cut off mark as low as nine for a state against others with 130 as entry mark into Unity Schools. Even in the North, Sokoto in particular has produced the world’s best automobile designer, Jelani Aliyu, who went through the conventional public school. People like Prof Ardo, a Special Adviser to Governor Wamakko attended University of Benin (UNIBEN); Prof Jibril Aminu won almost all prizes as a mathematician during his days in the university. It is just like the hierarchy of social or class status where we have the rich, middle and the lower classes. The last two categories will want to strive through available means to belong to the top for development”, he said. Constance Meju, a journalist, who once taught in a Unity School, said the policy should be scrapped because if all these years the people from the North and other educationally-disadvantaged states have not been able to catch up, it means they do not appreciate the gesture. Former Commissioner for Education in Kaduna State Matamaki Tom Maiyashi believes that the segregation in cut-off point for entry into the colleges is just a way of scoring cheap political points by politicians and those saddled with the responsibility of running the educational system. Maiyasho believes that the policy will erode the principle surrounding the establishment of the Unity Schools. “The concept of Unity Schools emerged post Nigeria civil war. At that time, the question of unity was paramount because we were seeking ways of uniting the country and the school socialisation system was considered vital in that regard. It was thought that if you bring youths from across the country, their interaction as they grow together, they will look at Nigeria from a broader perspective. That was the cardinal principle of establishing Unity Schools. At that time, the standard was quite high and if you go back and look at the first and second generation products of those schools, you will understand. What has happened over time is deliberate. The unity of Nigeria is paramount and that should guide your principle of maintaining standard. Right now, the standard has fallen and you are even dealing with a mess and even if you segregate, you are really pushing these children into a mess because the standard is not there,” he said. A teacher, Johnson Kalu, who teaches in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, described the policy as one of the ways the North is trying to destroy the education system, adding that they can never catch up with other parts of the country educationally through this means. Kalu said when other states were busy educating their children and building schools, the people of the North were busy doing other things. “What this means is that people from the South will go to the North and fill up their quota for them, you cannot stop the people from the south from going to school under any guise,” he said. He condemned Tambuwal for not agreeing to Ogene’s suggestion that the Federal Ministry of Education should be asked to suspend the obnoxious admission policy which is not in the best interest of the country. A parent from Abia State, Mr Uka Isaac, knows his child who took the examination would have it tough given the high cut-off. He said the policy will not stop the South from outperforming the North. “There is nothing they will do that would make them to stop the people from the southern part of the country from going to school; the least they will do is to make us to put our children in private schools. You do not expect me to ask my child to sit at home for another year just because of one stupid government policy, which is designed to make us wait for people who will never catch up with us educationally, even if we wait •Continued on page 27

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

EDUCATION

Alumni condemn closure of institution

HE alumni association of the Federal College of Education, Obudu, Cross River State, has condemned the closure of the institution by the Internal Revenue Service over alleged non-remittance of tax. The college was shut for two weeks by the IRS over alleged nonremittance of Income Tax (PAYE) deductions from staff salaries amounting to over N543.9 million for between 2004 and 2009. Briefing the National Executive Council of the association in Obudu, a representative of the Governing Board, Dr David Ugbai, said: “We condemn in its totality the unholy act in the recent closure of our alma mater for more than two weeks by the state internal revenue service for non-remittance

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

of taxes.” He said it was not in the best interest of any party to have resorted to litigation to resolve the issue, but rather through dialogue and other peaceful means. He said the development was not encouraging, the considering the huge investment government was putting into the sector in ensuring that a well-refined teacher education is provided. He lauded the management of the institution and the state government for resolving the matter. The National President of the association, Mr Justine Akpo, also noted that the development affected the institution’s academic calendar.

My vision is to transform PTI into world-class, says Minister •Institution honours Uduaghan, Alison-Maduake, others

HE Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani AlisonMaduake, has said it is her vision to transform the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun into a world-class training and research institute that can function like its counterparts, such as American Petroleum Institute (API), in the United States, and the Venezuela Petroleum Institute (VPI) in Venezuela. Mrs. Alison-Madueke, who spoke at Effurun in Delta State, during the graduation of the institution, said the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), before the National Assembly was to enable Nigeria, including the PTI, to gain optimally from oil and gas to maximise value for money earned through the resources. She said it was common knowledge that increased activities in the oil and gas sector were getting more complex, diversified and highly challenging, especially now that oil operations are moving to the downstream sector, emphasising the need to constantly train and re-train the work force in the industry, mostly when the ministry is envisaging that PTI can provide locally, the same quality

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

training standards obtainable abroad. Speaking further, Mrs. AlisonMadueke said for PTI to key into the Federal Government transformation agenda in the oil and gas sector, she is challenging the institute to undertake studies on how to use local materials in providing solutions to the myriad of problems confronting oil exploration and production. The Acting Principal of the institution, Mrs Nnenna Dennar, said since the establishment of the institution, it had justified its 40 years experience with many achievements. Dennar since President Goodluck signed into law the Nigeria Content Act and established the Nigeria Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB) the Federal Government has demonstrated an uncommon will to push through the policy of increased indigenous participation in the Nigeria oil and gas industry.

•St. Michael Secondary School team with their Agricultural Science teacher, Mrs Amanda Adaka, displaying their trophy and prizes.

T. Michael Secondary School, Oleh, Delta State, has won the grand finale of this year’s Nigerian Agip Oil Company-Green River Project (NAOC-GRP) Agricultural Quiz Competition for Secondary Schools in host communities of the company in Port Harcourt. St Michael Secondary School scored 33 points to beat Kins Comprehensive College, Omoku, Rivers State, which scored 13 and half points to take the second position in the contest that started on May 2 with 74 secondary schools from the host communities. While 30 secondary schools came from the swampy area, 44 came from the land area of NAOC host communities spread across Bayelsa, Delta, Imo and Rivers states. Incidentally, the first and second prize winners are from the land area. For coming tops, St Michael Secondary School, went home with a trophy, shield, laptop computers for the students and the teacher, agricultural text books, slashing machine, knapsack sprayer, wheel barrow and spades. Kins Comprehensive College, Omoku was presented with a shield, laptop computers for the students and the teacher, agricultural text books, slashing machine, knapsack

Delta school wins in AGIP quiz From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

sprayer and spades. Government Secondary School, Ndoni, Rivers State which emerged third position in the semi-final got a plaque, laptop computers for the students and the teacher, agricultural text books, slashing machine and knapsack sprayer while consolation prizes of agricultural text books were given to other schools that participated in the competition. The three pupils who represented St Michael Secondary School in the quiz competition were given a one academic year scholarship while Miss Ijeoma Ahiakwo, one of the representatives of Kins Comprehensive College, Omoku, who already has a scholarship from NAOC running is allowed to continue with it. The Public Relations, Communication and Government Liaison Manager of NAOC, Prince

Nwachukwu Obi, who represented the firm at the event, said the competition which made some of the pupils to shed tears and emotion is an indication of their desire to rise. Obi said the contest is channelled towards human development because while the company produced oil, “man cannot use it if he does not know how.” Obi noted that no nation working with it government apparatchik can develop the country alone; adding that its concerted efforts by government, organisations and individuals would achieve greatness. He also expressed hope that the competition would in future “create greater minds that will not cram but have the knowledge and be able to apply it when need be.” He commended the participants’ teachers for imparting knowledge into them. He expressed hope that someday the company would celebrate them since he does not believe teachers reward should be in heaven alone.

The unending row over Unity Schools’ cut-off marks •Continued from page 26

•From left: Chairman, Executive Trainers Ltd (ETL), Dr Ayodele Ogunsan; Registrar, Niger State College of Education, Minna, Abdullahi Dalhatu; MD/CEO ETL, Mrs Ajoke Ogunsan; Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, Bayero University, Kano, Prof Sagagi Murtala; and Mr Adetunji Jimoh, Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, at an entrepreneurship training organised by ETL in Dubai.

Kogi subsidises laptops for teachers

HE Kogi State government has provided a 10 per cent subsidy for 17,000 primary school teachers to obtain laptops. The initiative tagged “One Teacher One Laptop Agenda” is part of Governor Idris Wada’s ICT empowerment programme.

In his address at the launch held at the new administrative complex of the Kogi State wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Wada, who was represented by the deputy governor, Mr Yomi Awoniyi reiterated his administration’s commitment to achieving maximum ICT empower-

ment for its citizenry. The policy statement credited to the governor, stated: “today`s ceremony is the beginning of a gradual ICT empowerment vision for our people, especially our teachers who, by all standards, are custodians of knowledge.

for another 10 years for them to catch up.” A parent in Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Uduak Effiong, whose daughter, Blessing, is seeking admission into FGC, Ikot Ekpene, is also angry about the disparity cut-off marks. “For instance, how could the Federal Ministry of Education apportion 123 cut-off marks to male and female pupils from Akwa Ibom State while Zamfara State is given four marks for males and two for females? It is an injustice and it must be corrected by federal lawmakers,” she said. In his reaction, the Programme Director of Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development, Rivers State, Mr Steve Obodoekwe, said the policy encourages disunity. “The people who made that policy should bury their faces in shame because how can you justify the fact that a pupil from Anambra State is supposed to score as high as 139 to gain admission while his or her counterpart from Yobe State only has to score two marks to get the same admission. “The policy was put in place to enable the so-called educationally disadvantaged states to catch up with the

Igbo who are considered naturally sharp and hardworking. But over the years, these educationally disadvantaged states instead of catching up are retrogressing and so the best thing is for the government to scrap it and let us have a uniform admission policy. “

What does the future hold? Last week, Tambuwal directed the House Committee on Education, chaired by Hon Aminu Suleiman, to investigate the cut-off and quota system used for admission of pupils into the colleges. When The Nation asked Hon Suleiman about the investigation when he visited Lagos for the stakeholders’ forum organised by NECO, last Friday, he declined comments on the committee’s findings. “What the House did was to raise an observation based on complaints received from members of the general public. And I have been mandated to go and find out and report back to the House; therefore, I am handicapped now. I cannot discuss on this issue since I am basically responsible for the investigation. I won’t let the cat out of the bag yet,” he said.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

EDUCATION ACE FILE

Coop elects new officers THE Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo Cooperative Society has elected new eaders to pilot its affairs for the next two years. The election held at the Olusegun Obasanjo auditorium, saw Mr Enoch Ayodele Orunko, emerging president of the society. Other officers elected during the free and fair polls are Dr Oluwatoyin Brownso (Vice President), Dr Peter Akinbile (Secretary General) and Mr. Joseph Obamoyegun (Treasurer). Others are Mr T. O. Olorunmota (Assistant Secretary), Mr. Pius Ogundare (Board member Non-Teaching) and Mr. S.I. Itodo (Board Member representing Demonstration Nursery and Primary School).

COEASU gets new leaders MEMBERS of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union, (COEASU), ACE Chapter, have elected new executives. Dr. Akintunde Samuel Akinrinlola of the Department of Social Studies, who was unopposed was declared chairman with 214 votes. He will serve for the next for years with Mr. Rufus Oziegbe (Vice Chairman); Mr. Abayomi Adepoju (Secretary General) and Mr. Adenegan Kehinde (Treasurer). Other officers elected were Mr. Bernard Anthony (Financial Secretary), Mr. Edafe Joel (Assistant Secretary General); Mr. Anthony Israel Kolawole (Director of Socials); Mr Olaniyan Rotimi (auditor) and Mr. Olaniyan Olaolu (Public Relations Officer).

Registry holds ethics retreat THE members of staff of the ACE Registry Division will be learning about work ethics and code of conduct during a retreat on Saturday. The retreat will be declared open by the Provost, Prof Adeyemi Idowu, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Auditorium. Registrar, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Mrs. Folashade Adediran, will speak on “Work ethics and code of conduct: Effect of the two concepts on productivity”, while Mrs. A. O. Olajuyigbe of the Department of English Language, ACE, will deliver a lecture on “communication skills: principles guiding report writing”.

Firm to assist students get foreign scholarships

SUALLY, students are the ones that seek out firms that can help them travel abroad for further studies. However, the reverse is the case with Avail International Consul Limited (AICL), which is seeking to help students get into secondary and tertiary institutions in the United Kingdom (UK), United States and Canada irrespective of the funds they have. Mrs Bola Agunbiade, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), AICL, said in an interview with The Nation at the firm’s Ogba, Lagos office, that they can help brilliant students with good grades in their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) attract scholarships from reputable institutions outside Nigeria. “There are several scholarship opportunities abroad that people are not even aware of. We want to be able to reach out to students, especially those who are intelligent who have come out in flying colours in their O/levels. They may not have the financial capability to travel abroad; however, there are opportunities for such students to get scholarship. It may be full scholarship, it might be tuition reduction,” she said. After evaluating their credentials, Mrs Agunbiade said the firm would help scholarship potentials to present their applications to the universities. She added that for the next two months especially, AICL would offer its services free to all categories of students in commemo-

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

ration of its second anniversary. She said they would benefit from visa counselling, evaluation and tutorials. “We are inviting students and their parents to come in from June 26 all through July and the whole of August. We are looking at them going in for September. We are encouraging them to come here and it is going to be free. We are inviting them to celebrate our second anniversary. “We will evaluate their documentation, check credentials, see the ones that are really intelligent, assist to writing good personal statement because this is one of the requirements for scholarships and send the applications off to these institutions and see as many scholarship opportunities we can give out to these students for free. Those who can afford the fees and even those who already have admissions can come in we offer free counseling to them help them with their visa application, give them mock interview based on the likely questions they might be asked at the interview centres and embassies to ease the application process.“ However, despite the firm’s enthusiasm to help potential students get admissions abroad, Mrs Agunbiade said it only assists those with genuine intention to study. She said if they go abroad for other reasons and misbehave, they spoil the

•Mrs Agunbiade

country’s reputation. She added: “It is easy for me to tell if the student is genuine. Their parents may have money and just want them to travel. But by the time I talk to them, forgetting even their credentials, I can tell. They might not have the genuine intention to go abroad and really study and its not good for us because institutions come back and blame us that why did we send a student that is not serious. “I have about 40 schools in the UK and we have contracts. They make out rules and they insist we must send genuine students. If I have any doubt I tell them no I won’t process it.“

Lawmaker plans ICT training for youths

EPUTY Whip of the Lagos State House of Assembly Rotimi Abiru has pledged his commitment to providing a platform for Information Communication Technology (ICT) education for members of his constituency. Speaking at the graduation of 196 youths he sponsored for ICT training in Bariga, Abiru, who represents Shomolu 2 Constituency, said the thrust of the programme was to assist the government in liberating the young ones from poverty and equip them with skills for self sustenance. “We have no other choice than to help our people achieve this desire of ICT education because it is simply the only way. And the forgoing made me to contribute a mite to my constituency through organisation of a free Computer Training programme that over 1000 indigent students have successfully benefited from in the last

By Oziegbe Okoeki

six years. “Three best students among the graduands usually go home with a new computer set and accessories, having excelled in the examination with good grades in Desktop Publishing while two best students from the System Engineering Department are given engineering equipment. “Also, 190 students would be admitted for the seventh season of the scheme and the admission process will commence soon for Senior School Certificate Holders”, he said. Abiru said he has not regretted investing huge amounts in education as one of the tools to improve the well being of the Bariga people, including distributing 60 November/ December Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) forms to indigent candidates from different

Pomp at Omoluabi Club launch T was a combination of dance and drama during the cultural display at the inauguration of the 17th Southwest NICO Cultural Club, Omoluabi. The inauguration took place at Saint Dominic High School, Akure. It attracted a huge crowd of teachers, students, and other well-wishers, who welcomed the NICO team led by the Zonal Head, Mr Ohi Ojo. The Principal, Mrs Funmilayo Adegbenro, said it was time Nigerians identified with the country’s rich cultural values and heritage. She said the essence of inviting NICO for the inauguration was to enable both workers and students of the school to be well-informed about the need to protect, preserve and promote their culture. She called for the promotion of Yoruba and other indigenous languages, which are an integral part of culture. She added that the inauguration of the club in her school and other schools in Nigeria would serve as bedrock for building well-cultured leaders and dedi-

FGGC, Bakori to launch appeal fund

cated citizens in the future. Mr Ojo said culture is usually misconstrued by the public as mere wearing of traditional attires. He said culture goes beyond physical appearance to describe the a people’s way of life. He added that the NICO cultural club was not for the Yoruba people alone, but for all Nigerians, as its aim is to inculcate into the students/youths the right cultural values needed to become better persons in the future. Finally, Mr Ojo urged all Nigerians to jealously protect and promote our cultural values and heritage, as that was the only identity we had as a people. The event was spiced with various theatrical performances such as a drama “Ekun Iyawo” (Bridal farewell) which saw a bride leave her family in tears for marriage. The pupils also thrilled the audience with pulsating cultural dance displays from Ondo and Ikale communities of Ondo State. Ojo described the event as one of the best ever.

•A cultural display at the event

parts of his constituency. Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Biyi Mabadeje, who was a special guest on the occasion, commended the initiative, adding that it further complements the state government’s computerisation programmes. He urged the beneficiaries to maximise the training and equipment they have been given, describing it as a fish-net for an enviable future. Highpoint of the event was the presentation of an aquarium by some of the students to the lawmaker, who later re-presented the aquarium back to the school. Abiru, while explaining his reason for re-presenting the aquarium back to the school, said: “I did not organise this programme with a view of getting anything in return from the beneficiaries. So, I am re-presenting the gift back to the school.”

THE School Based Management Committee (SBMC) of the Federal Government Girls College, Bakori plans to launch a multi-million naira appeal fund to develop infrastructure in the school. Chairman of the Committee, Alhaji Mohammed Ahmed, told reporters in Kaduna that the funds to be raised will be used to provide instructional materials, sporting facilities, water and health facilities for the school. He said the decision to launch the appeal fund is in realisation of the fact that the government alone cannot adequately meet the school’s needs. This inadequacy notwithstanding, he said the school needs to continue to maintain its high standard of academic performance. Recently, he said the school came first in the National Junior Science competition.

Three girls get scholarship From Osagie Otabor, Benin

THREE indigent female students are thanking the Ewohimi Committee of Friends for granting them scholarships for their secondary and tertiary education. The three beneficiaries are Miss Okoyomon Hope of the Ewohimi secondary school, Ewohimi, Miss Idiake Grace of Agadaga Secondary School, Ewohimi and another who represented by Mrs. Oseghale Eunice, a teacher at the Ewohimi secondary school. They were awarded the scholarship for their school academic performances. National coordinator of the ECF, Barr. Ighodalo Asuelimen, said the gesture was aimed at improving the girl education and development of Ewohimi town through building of institutional legacies. He spoke when the body hosted Hon. Lawrence Okojie Aghedo on his appointment as Edo state Commissioner for Budget, Planning and Economic Development. Ighodalo described the body as a social platform made up of sons and daughters of Ewohimi who have distinguished themselves in their chosen career and have identified with the onerous task to move the Ewohimi community forward through educational support.

*CAMPUSES

How to promote culture

Aregbesola plants tree of life Page 31

*NEWS *PEOPLE *KUDOS& KNOCKS *GRANTS

Page 36

THE NATION

CAMPUS LIFE 0805-450-3104 email: campusbeat@yahoo.com THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

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

email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

To create awareness about fake products, students of the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) gathered for a marathon at their Ikorodu campus.TOLULOPE OGUNLEYE (HND II Computer Science) reports.

•Some of the participants during the marathon

Y 6:30am last Wednesday, the participants had gathered at the Aluta Mansion, the Students’Union Government (SUG) building, to collect their kits. The exercise took sometime and then all was set for the race. The participants moved to the main gate for the business of the day. It was a marathon organised by the Students’ Union officials of Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH). Sponsored by Dangote Group, MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Lassa Resources and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the race was held to create awareness about products that are harmful to health. At 9:15am, the participants were set for the race. It was reminiscent of an Olympic race.Participants glowed in their blue and yellow sport wears, which were supplied by the sponsors. Sport officials of

A race for life the institution led by Mr Joseph Ogunbowale joined the athletes at the take-off point. Earlier, a combined team of officials of the Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA), policemen and school security personnel had cleared the marathon routes for easy movement and safety. The routes, which started from the first gate of the Ikorodu campus to the library and the third gate, extended to Itamaga Express Road to Sabo Roundabout and Sagamu Road then back to the first gate. Logistics were in place and medical personnel were on hand with a well-equipped ambulance to attend to injured and distressed partici-

pants. As the race progressed, some athletes fell and could not continue. The medical team moved them out of the way for attention. Some whose condition was serious were taken to the school medical centre. The race, which lasted for 108 minutes, was won by Suleiman Amao, ND III Accountancy.The winner maintained his lead from the take-off point until he finished at 9.58am. The last athlete arrived at 11:03am. The runners-up were Toheed Adegoke, ND II Quantity Surveying, who arrived at 10am; Opeyemi Oluwadare, ND II Chemical Engineering, 10:02am; Jeremiah Akinmoyeje, ND III Business Ad-

ministration, 10:04 am and Qudus Osuolale, ND II Business Administration, 10:05am. In the female category, Kehinde Odusanya, HND 1 Computer Engineering, came first at 10:20am. The runners-up were Modupe Tade, ND 1 Estate Management, 10:28am; Kelechi Inagu, ND 1 Computer Science, 10:30am; Funmi Ayenowo, HND II Civil Engineering, 10:33am and Adebukola Ajayi, HND 1 Accountancy, 10:34am. When CAMPUSLIFE visited the medical centre where the injured were admitted, the Students Union Government (SUG) officials led by the President, Olanrewaju Balogun, Sport Director Samuel Akerele and Speaker of the union’s parliament Kehinde Olofintuyi, were in the building to check on them. Dr Ibrahim Abdulraheem, the Medical Director, said the students were stable. He advised the union

officials to conduct pre-marathon exercise and medical examination before allowing participants to embark on the race next time. He said some of the admitted students had high blood pressure; others were diagnosed of other ailments. A few minutes later, the participants converged on the convocation ground for the announcement of the winner. It was a moment filled with anticipation. Principal officers and some guests mounted the podium . The Rector, Dr Abdulazeez Lawal, was absent but other senior officers, including the Registrar, Mrs Aderonke Ige; Assistant Dean of Students’ Affairs, Mr Adebayo Fapounda and Public Relations Officer Mr Olanrewaju Kuye joined the sponsors to present prizes to the •Continued on page 30

•CAMPUSLIFE man is Mr. Anambra Universe-P32 •SUG speaker impeached -P33

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

Here we go again

Pushing Out

HAD concluded my article on another subject for the week when I got a call that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) would commence an indefinite strike from last Monday. The first thought I had formed the title of my piece today. Whenever we take a step forward we tend to take five steps backward. I say this because a few months ago the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the tertiary education report, which is aimed at strengthening universities and eliminate the weaknesses that have brought down the standard of education in the country. I felt then that it was a right step in the right direction, at least the government had come to term with the fact that all is not well with our universities. But that is just one side of the coin. Our loquacious Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, said apart from poor funding, there are other systemic issues relating to the vision of the various universities, improper utilisation of resources as well as regulations that need to be tackled. He was quoted as saying: “The report, which was ordered by the president, following the last ASUU strike brought together stakeholders in the tertiary educational system to examine the state of development of our universities and to look at all the issues that have continued to lead to friction and also lower standards in the university system. “So, in order that we would be able to come up with a very, very comprehensive intervention policy, Mr President felt there was a need to draw in other stakeholders, particularly state governments. And after the presentation to the National Economic Council, Mr President will then proceed to agree on an intervention formula following a thorough analysis of the report that has been presented to us today,” Maku said then. The Minister also added that the FEC also recommended that it has become necessary for the National Universities Commission (NUC) to enforce basic minimum standards on infrastructure, staff/student ratio and facilities, to ensure

with

academic allowance. This earned allowance, and other issues, had dragged on until the government then agreed to write an MoU with the union. But there has been nothing to show that the government was committed to an MoU it willingly wrote to better the university sector. It is in this regard that we are embarking on an indefinite strike,” ASUU said. The “earned allowance” is a N12, 500 per lecturer allowance in a certain category. But because of cost implication, the government negotiated with the union, signed a MoU

Agbo Agbo 08116759750 (SMS only)

•aagboa@gmail.com that the universities meet the best standards compared to any other in the world. So, after this postulation, the big question remains: why allow ASUU to proceed on another unnecessary indefinite strike after the same government failed to honour an agreement it signed? It will be appropriate to listen to the lecturers on why they chose the strike option. The ASUU National President, Dr. Isa Fagge, said in Lagos that the decision to embark on the action, which he said will be “comprehensive, total and indefinite’’, is the refusal of the Federal Government to implement agreement reached with the union. He warned that the strike would last for as long as the Federal Government wants it. Have we not heard this before? Before anyone nails the lecturers for being insensitive to the plight of their students, the nation and the education sector, we have to understand where they are coming from. ASUU explained that it embarked on the strike because the government had reneged on the agreement it reached with it before the lecturers suspended a similar action that lasted for months in February last year. The agreement was signed in 2009 and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was entered into in December 2011. “Before now, there has been this issue of the implementation of the key issues contained in the 2009 agreement we entered into with the Federal Government. We have had several meetings and deliberations to let the government understand why these issues must be resolved, but it is like the more we meet and deliberate, the messier the issue gets. One of the issues that needed to be addressed was basically that of the

and set aside N100billion to take care of all the issues. During the initial part of the negotiation, the government appealed for 20 per cent to be knocked off and another 30 per cent later, bringing the agreed amount to 50 per cent of the original amount agreed on. It was alleged by the union that even with this amount the government still failed to keep its words. According to one lecturer, “This 50 per cent, government said, will be a one off payment; that it was from that 50 per cent that we shall take care of everything, including the earned allowance. This did not go down well with us and so we decided to meet and take the decision we have just taken.” He added that the tertiary education sector is affected by inadequate funding. He emphasised what we knew that one of the reasons foreign scholars shun Nigeria was because of the poor wages. The agitation for earned allowance is a means of attracting foreign scholars and not about ASUU. After being properly lectured, I saw that the policy is aimed at addressing the thorny issue of brain drain in the university system. We are all aware that our best brains are all drifting into industries and other sectors that will pay them better, rather than ploughing back their intellect into the academic sector. For those who may be quick to point fingers at ASUU, I implore them to go to our universities, polytechnics or colleges of education and see the condition in which lecturers operate! As far as I’m concerned, they - like the doctors in our public hospitals - should be applauded and given all the encouragement for staying in the forte when others have left. Simply put, it is tough being a lecturer in Nigeria.

It appears the government is not aware that we are living in a rapidly changing world, where issues are becoming more complex daily such that yesterday’s tools are grossly inadequate to address today’s challenges, that is why universities worldwide are facing increasing pressures to produce “knowledge workers”, to respond to perceived competition dynamics, and to maintain and improve quality standards. In Nigeria, there is a growing concern by the public on the quality of university education and the relevance of the universities curriculum to national development. Part of the problems attributed to these setbacks, in addition to what the FEC identified a few months ago, include: poor funding, lack of infrastructure, lack of frequent curriculum review, inadequate staff training and welfare, students overpopulation, frequent strikes by both the academic and supporting staff etc. In addition to ASUU’s grouse, it is quite unfortunate that facilities, such as sufficient power supply, enough and decent lecture halls, basic chemicals and equipment in labs and well-equipped libraries are lacking. No doubt, public universities need to improve to parallel the global standard in imparting knowledge, conduct researches, and be responsive to the needs of our socio-economic development. Elsewhere, many universities have been adapting, demonstrating the capacity to re-invent themselves while apparently continuing to pursue their fundamental mission and sustaining their core values. Yet, back home, billions are being spent on unnecessary politicking and on issues that are antithetical to development. University education, I emphasise, is supposed to provide the platform for critical thinking which oftentimes challenges the norm. It is in challenging the norm that great inventions are made. Has it ever crossed the minds of our policy formulators that our universities are not at the forefront of technological advancement? Researches and innovations are rare and as a result, those who could afford it go to other African countries for their education. This is why the ASUU strike is unnecessary. The government often cites lack of funds whenever issues bothering on education are raised. Yet, these ‘funds’ are never in short supply when it comes to settling political scores and checkmating opponents. When will we stop mortgaging the future of our youths and country?

11th CAMPUSLIFE workshop begins tomorrow

•Winners with the officials displaying their prizes

A race for life •Continued from page 29

winners. The prizes were MTN DSTV mobile phone with three months free subscription for the first positions, Airtel Internet mobile phone with three months free subscription for the winner; Also, LG DVD player was given to the second runner-up, Airtel Internet modem with a hand pack for the fourth position and MTN rechargeable lamps for the fifth position. The union also gave all winners its note books. The Trade Marketing Consultant of MTN, Mrs Elizabeth Otomewo, said the telecoms firms supported the initiative to hone the sporting skills of the students. Mrs Damilola Ajayi, representative of GSK, which provided

Lucozade Boost drink for the participants, said the event was in line with the company’s objective. Sulaiman, the winner, said: “Relentless training and exercise made me to win the marathon. I run across the same axis every day and with the support of God, I won the race.” Saying the vote of thanks, Samuel, the union’s Sport Director, thanked the sponsors and management for supporting the initiative. He urged students to always take part in sporting activities to keep fit all the time. At the end of the event, participants were thrilled by DJ Da Dre, with hip hop music from local and foreign artistes.

HE first part of the bi-annual workshop for our correspondents across campuses is here again. It starts tomorrow. The event is the 11th in the series. Since inception in 2008, these sessions have been jointly sponsored by the Coca Cola Nigeria Limited (CCNL) and the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited. These firms take up the entire responsibility, from transportation, feeding and accommodation for the three days. We remain indebted to them. The venue for the workshop is highbrow Lekki part of Lagos. To make things easier for the invited correspondents, especially those that will be coming from outside Lagos, arrangements have been made for them to gather at the corporate headquarters of The Nation, where vehicles will be waiting to convey them to Lekki. Details of take-off time had been stated in the invitation sent across to correspondents. Punctuality is of the essence. At the workshop, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), a frontline human rights activist and lawyer, will be speaking to the students on the theme: Building up drug-free and non-cultist generation. Also, an official from Lagos office of the National Drag Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) will be speaking on the theme. The following students are being expected at the event: Peace Adeoye, UNILORIN; Shaibu Success, FUT MINNA; Femi

Ogunjobi, OAU; Sani Garba Mohammed, FUTO; Philips Ogbaje, MAUTECH; Uche Anichebe, UNIZIK; Adebisi Adeniji, UI; Obianuju Asouzu, UNICAL; Halimah Akanbi, UDUS; Tolulope Ogunleye, LASPOTECH; Tunji Awe, EKSU; Kamaluddeen Abubakar, NSUK; Gilbert Alasa, UNIBEN; Yinka Olatunbosun, IBBUL; Opeoluwa Sonuga, OAU; Richard AduraIlesanmi, AAUA; Gboluwaga Olaomo, UNIOSUN; Akinola Oluyi, OFFA POLY; Mark Orgu, YABATECH; Philip Okorodudu, DELSU; Chidiebere Enyia, IMSU; Taiwo Isola, UNIMAID; Temitayo Ayetoto, OAU; Olivia Ushie, KSU; Taiwo Adebulu, NYCS Ibadan, Isah Moshood, NYSC Gombe; Habeeb Whyte, UNILORIN; Hameed Muritala, UNILORIN; Hammed Hamzat, UI; Nurudeen Yusuf, LASU; Kemi Busari, OAU; Idris Abubakar, NYSC Kaduna; Emeka Onwudinjo, OKO POLY; Modiu Olaguro, UNILAG; Kingsley Amatanweze, UNN; Hauwa Muhammad, ABU; Francis Egwuatu, FUTO; Emmanuel Ahanonu, UNICAL; Damilola Olayemi, REDEEMER’S; Segun Odunayo, AAUA; Maimunat Momoh, BUK; Tosin Alawode, OAU; Vivian Gyang, FCE Pankshin; Sulaiman Dutse, TV College; Precious Onuoha, FUTO; Ekenedirichukwu Ahaneku, IMSU; Awwal Mijinyawa, ABU; Sam Ibok, UNICAL; and Mubarak Ibrahim, UDUS.

CDS sensitises pupils on first aid

EMBERS of the Red Cross Community Development Service (CDS) of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have trained over 60 pupils of Agho Comprehensive Secondary School, Egboroyin in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State on how to use first aid boxes. Fisayo Ekundayo, head of the CDS group, said the workshop was necessary to sensitise the pupils on how to make use of first aid boxes in school and home.

From Reuben Agu, NYSC CALABAR

The State Co-ordinator of the NYSC, Mr Nkereke Ibangha, described first aid as a necessary tool which every home must have. According to him, the constant replenishment of the first aid box with necessary tools would promote safety. Ibangha said he would continue to promote activities of Red Cross in the state.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

Aregbesola plants tree of life Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola was honoured last week at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, in recognition of his eco-friendly policies and Igi Iye initiative. DHIKRU AKINOLA and KEMI BUSARI (400-Level Political Science) report.

T was 7am and the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile- Ife was filled with guests and members of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) from within and outside Osun State. Academic activities were literally brought to a halt as students, in green and white attires, welcomed the honoree, Governor Rauf Aregbesola, to the university. The award was organised by the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, OAU in partnership with the Environmental Health Officers Registration Council of Nigeria and the National Parks Service, Abuja. As people trooped into the campus, security operatives had a hectic time controlling them. At 8:34 am, the convoy of members of the State Executive Council led by the Deputy Governor, Mrs Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, arrived. Clad in a green attire with white trousers to match, Mrs. LaoyeTomori led commissioners to the Vice-Chancellor’s office, where they were received by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof Ayobami Salami, and top members of the university’s management. Appreciating the management for recognising and supporting all developmental initiatives of the government, Mrs. Laoye-Tomori said the Aregbesola administration was proud of the university

for being environmental-friendly. A few minutes after, Prof Salami, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Bamitale Omole, led guests to the Jimoh Ibrahim Post Graduate Building to welcome Aregbesola for the tree-planting initiative of the government, tagged Igi Iye (tree of life). Welcoming guests, Director of the Institute, Dr Olusegun Awotoye, said Aregbesola was honoured in recognition of his administration’s initiatives on the environment through various programmes such as O-CLEAN and others. Awotoye congratulated the governor for being the third recipient of the prestigious award. Past awardees are Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and former Governor Donald Duke of Cross River State. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment and Sanitation, Mr Bola Ilori, said the survival of humanity depended on trees to restore friendly weather, adding that Igi Iye would be planted in towns and villages and not in the forest. He said God remained the best environmentalist with the creation of the Garden of Eden before man. He praised the institute for the support, commending OAU Parks and Garden for supporting the beautification project. Prof Bukola Oyawoye, Commis-

•Gov. Aregbesola being presented the award plaque before planting the Igi Iye. sioner for Agriculture, said Aregbesola had worked hard to save the environment. Reading from Genesis 2:8, she noted that God believed that man could not survive without the environment, which was why it came first before man. Earlier, Prof Omole, noted that the university had a plan for ecology and the environment since 1972 after it held a conference on ecology and the environment. He promised to partner the state in its afforestration and environmental programmes. The highpoint of the ceremony was the presentation of the Gold Environment Award Aregbesola. Responding, Aregbesola thanked the university for maintaining the standard and making the dreams of its founding fathers a reality. He restated the government’s readiness to partner with the university to improve the environment.

Singing to the admiration of the guests, the governor said his joy knew no bounds, adding: “It is not easy to receive an award put together by three distinct and reputable organisations. It is uncommon for a university like OAU to lend its hallowed ground for a programme like this. I salute the management team.” Describing environment as humanity’s common heritage, Aregbesola said: “I want the children who are in their formative years to take this initiative with all their hearts. We have imbibed a positive spirit that we must improve our environment. For us in Osun, the environment is not something to trample upon but something that must be cherished and taken care of. “To the children, we are borrowing your time and you must not allow us to misuse it. We do not believe that the environment be-

long to us. It was bequeathed to us by our predecessors and so also we shall bequeath it to you.” Saying that the award will further spur more progressive action, the governor urged the youths to see opportunities in his administration’s environmental policies. Presenting the symbolic trees to the OAU managment, Aregbesola, who was joined by Oyawoye, Dr Awotoye and a female student representing the youths, said that the state had bought 2.5m seedlings for the initiative. The presentation of Igi Iye by Aregbesola was witnessed by Prof Salami, Registrar, Mr Dotun Awoyemi, traditional rulers, members of the state executives and students. The governor later planted the symbolic tree on the campus. Ace Nollywood actor, Saheed Balogun and hip-hop sensation, Olamide, thrilled the guests and students after the ceremony.

Students of the Moddibo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH) in Yola have been going through hard times since emergency was declared in Adamawa and two other states.Their hardship that been compounded by telecoms operators’ decision to shutdown service. PHILIPS OGBAJE (500-Level Information Technology) reports.

Shut out from the outside world

HE Moddibo Adama University of Technology, (MAUTECH) in Yola, Adamawa State, may have returned to the Stone Age. No thanks to the disruption of telecommunication services that followed the declaration of emergency by President Goodluck Jonathan, in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. Soldiers were deployed to contain the activities of Boko Haram insurgents ravaging these parts of the country. The dusk-to-dawn curfew, which followed the emergency has paralysed activities in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, and its environs. Aside the attendant immobility of traders and residents, telephone services were also disrupted. Residents, including students, find it difficult to make calls. Some of them, who spoke to CAMPUSLIFE, expressed frustration over the inability to communicate with themselves on campus and their family members at home. CAMPUSLIFE gathered that since the telephone networks were disrupted, MAUTECH students have

•Stranded students communicating with their families via the Internet.

resorted to the Internet as a mode of communication. With many still unable to use the Internet, communication is difficult. The only cyber café on the campus, Jibril Aminu

Cyber Café, does not have enough space and computers to accommodate a large number of students. Eric Ubong, a final year student of Civil Engineering, does not have

money to buy airtime to surf the Internet. He told CAMPUSLIFE that life has been difficult for him since the mobile networks were disrupted.

“I cannot even browse because I have exhausted the money they gave me at home. I cannot call home; my parents cannot call me, it is as if I am in the wilderness,” he said. David Adejoh, 500-Level Geography Education, expressed the same sentiment, saying:“I have been stuck in school since I finished my exams. There is no means I can reach my parents to send the money for my travelling. I don’t have any money on me again. I don’t even know how I am surviving here.” Worst hit by the situation are the final year students, who depend wholly on mobile network in sourcing materials for their project theses. The poor Internet service provided by the cyber café has only compounded the woes of the students. A female final year student, who did not mention her name, said she could no longer continue with her project. “My supervisor has requested that I bring Chapter Three of my project but I can’t provide it because there is no way I can get the material online. The cyber café is congested and the service is unreliable for any meaningful research,” she said. Staying in a war zone with inability to communicate to the outside world has been miserable for •Continued on page 36

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

•Francis (right) being decorated after he was announced winner of the contest.

CAMPUSLIFE correspondent at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Francis Egwuatu, has won the Mr Anambra Universe pageant held last week for youths. The 21-year-old final year student of Mechanical Engineering, represented Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State in the contest. The pageant was

• Francis posing with the car

CAMPUSLIFE man is Mr. Anambra Universe From Gerald Nwokocha

AWKA held at the Marble Arch Hotel and Event Centre, Awka, Anambra State capital. The event, which was the first of its kind, was attended by youths and students, who came from various parts of

the country. About 58 students entered for the contest online, while 37 were called for auditioning. After a series of training and test, the contestants were reduced to 16. The contestants were tested on physical strength in various attires. Their entrepreneurial skills were

also tested when they were given tickets to sell to participants. The judges also engaged the contestants intellectually. The pictures of the contestants were later uploaded on the Internet for online voting by the public. At the end, Francis beat 15 others to win the contest. He attributed his success to

divine mercy. According to him, hours to the event, he was already feeling bad that he was not going to win because he could not get highest number of votes cast by the public. Francis, however, won the contest because of his brilliance and entrepreneurial ability. He was presented with

a Volkswagen Golf car and one year modelling contract. Elated, Francis told our correspondent: “I feel greatly honoured for this feat.” The show featured performances by several artistes. But the hall was more lively when Lynxx, a hip-hop artiste, took the stage.

LASU students donate blood

HE Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the Lagos State University (LASU) has expressed concern over what it calls poor health awareness among students. In a speech to kick off the union’s Free Health Week, during which students also donated blood, the Welfare Director, Alade Adegbite, said the exercise was to create awareness about some health issues and provide ways through which students could maintain a healthy life. He said students would be given free health talks, medical tests and screening for ailments, such as cancer and HIV/AIDS, among others. A member of the Lagos State

By Olatunde Odebiyi

Blood Transfusion Committee (LSBTC), Mr Solomon Eka, said voluntary blood donation was necessary because it helped the body to produce new blood cells, reduces workload on the heart and the donors have access to blood without demand for replacement. He added that his team would test the donors of HIV 1 and 2, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, genotype and blood group. Eka described voluntary blood donation as a humanitarian service, which should be done once in every three months. Some of the students, who participated in the exercise, said they donated blood to save

lives. Cecelia Ojo, 100-Level Microbiology, who donated blood for the first time, said: “I was a bit scared before the donation, but afterwards, I felt good and I would like to donate every time I have the opportunity. Through this, I am helping my society to increase the availability of blood and reduce death rate.” The Principal of the centre, Mr Deyenuma Akhigbe, described the exercise as a good idea, saying it is a responsibility everybody must engage in to save humanity. “There is no regret for doing it, rather one is doing well to his body,” he said.

Dept loses student From Frank Ejeagbasi

UNICAL

HE Department of Biochemistry of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) has lost a student, Christian Fabian. The late Christian took ill after he wrote the first semester examinations, which ended last week. The nature of the ailment was not known at the time of this report. Until his death, Christian was the class representative of 200-Level students. His class’ football team won the just-concluded Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences Dean’s Cup. The deceased was said to have played a great role in the team’s success. His course mates described hm as diligent and steadfast in representing his class. Remembering his moment with the deceased, Raymond Akpodor, said: “We played chess together. Each time I beat him, he would want us to play again.” The late Christian has since been laid to rest in his home town in Ikot-Abasi, Akwa Ibom State.

•From left: Prof Agunbiade, Dr Babalola and Obembe during the seminar.

Lifeline for varsity from abroad

UNITED States-based researcher, Dr Stephen Babalola, led other scholars to the McPherson University, Ajebo, Ogun State, to rally support for the privately-owned institution. It was at the Nigerian-American Universities STEM Alliance Seminar and Presentation held in the institution. The event, held in the university’s multipurpose hall, was attended by lecturers and students. Babalola, a research fellow in the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Science of A and M University, Huntsville, Alabama, said his mission was to facilitate an alliance between the university and other Nigerian institutions and a select America universities for progress. He also advocated good student-lecturer relations to ensure better alliance. He said the alliance would provide joint initiative, faculty exchange and course infusion aimed at keeping the students and staff in touch with developments in science and technology. Under the alliance, McPherson University and other selected institutions would benefit from equipment donations, training and exchange programmes.

From Ayodele Adesina

ABEOKUTA According to Babalola, the success of Nigerian students abroad could be hinged on good student-lecturer relationship, which, he said, was the hallmark of American education system. The don tasked lecturers to keep tabs on developments in advanced countries to make the institution’s graduates the best in Africa and beyond. Babalola’s Assistant Researcher, Mr Babatunde Obembe, who is a doctoral student in an American university, urged the students to think beyond theory and strive to make impact in their community. “As you are here, the world is interested in the impact you want to make in your imme-

diate community here in Ogun. You must find out the dominant profession in the community and research into how you can help improve on whatever the locals are into. You must use your mind and change right your world from here,” he said. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adeniyi Agunbiade, promised that the university management would work hard to attract more of such endorsement. He added that university would collaborate with more universities locally and abroad to improve the quality of learning and exposure of students to latest techniques. The Registrar, Mrs Adebola Abegunde, said the management would put plans in motion to fully maximise the alliance.

‘The world is interested in the impact you want to make in your immediate community here in Ogun. You must find out the dominant profession in the community and research into how you can help improve on whatever the locals are into’

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

Varsity inducts nurses

RADUATING students of the Nursing Department thronged the University of Calabar (UNICAL) Hotel and Conference Centre in white robes to be inducted into the Board of Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Addressing the inductees during the thanksgiving service held for them, the Chief Medical Director of the UNICAL Teaching Hospital, Dr Thomas Agan, commended the graduates for scaling through the arduous training, charging them to uphold the ethics of the profession. The inductees were enjoined to seek more knowledge and register with the council so as not to be seen as quacks. CAMPUSLIFE learnt that of the 45 students, who were presented for the NMCN professional examination last November, 35 were successful. The guest speaker, Prof Andrew

•Some of the speakers with participants after the seminar.

Corps members trained on safe delivery

O reduce maternal deaths in Oyo State, a seminar has been organised for Corps members, who are medical doctors. The workshop, which was held at the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) House, Ibadan, was put together by Dr Adeyemi Oluwaseun, a Corps member and graduate of Medicine and Surgery from the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State. Corps members from various Local Government Areas in the state attended the seminar. Also at the event were officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) led by Mrs Oluwayemisi Otaru; the Schedule Officer, Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Community Development Service (CDS) Group. The chairman on the occasion, Prof Adefolarin Malomo, a Neurosurgeon at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, who is the NMA chief in the state, urged the young doctors to always observe

From Taiwo Adebulu

NYSC IBADAN medical code of conduct whenever they practise. Malomo told participants to also look on maternal mortality and how they could help in their various places of assignment to save lives. The seminar, which was divided into five sessions, featured three guest speakers – Dr Emmanuel Olowokere, Dr Olalekan Ogunlowo and Dr Nkemdiran Jacob – who took turns to sensitise the young doctors on prevention of maternal death. Olowokere, who came from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, UCH, spoke on Emergency Caesarian Session, Instrumental Emergency Delivery and Management of Ante-Partum and Post-Partum hemorrhages with a practical session. He demonstrated the use of anti-shock gar-

ment in other to reduce peri-partal bleeding. There was also a video show on how to perform an Emergency Caesarian Session and the use of vacuum extractors in performing Instrumental Vaginal Delivery. Ogunlowo, of the Ibadan Central Hospital, lectured the participants on the principles of safe abortion and management of complications after abortion. Saying the vote of thanks, Oluwaseun, a Corps member, enjoined his colleagues to practise what was learnt during the seminar to save lives and reduce mortality rate in Oyo State. He said: “As a development facilitator of MDGs, I have been particularly interested in the fifth goal of MDGs, which is improving maternal health. To achieve this, I decided to bring veteran medical practitioners to tutor young doctors so that we can equip ourselves with necessary skills and reach out to improve maternal health.”

From Stanley Uchegbu and Favour Inyangudo

UNICAL Uduigwomen, admonished the granduands to be committed to their calling. Citing Exodus 1-2, Uduigwomen urged the graduates to learn from Pharaoh’s daughter, who nurtured Moses, despite the king’s directive to kill him. The highpoints of the ceremony was the oath-taking and presentation of awards to outstanding students. In her vote of thanks, the graduating students’ representative, Dorothy Ikumegwang, thanked God for the success of their programmes. She expressed gratitude to the management, lecturers and their parents, she who supported them throughout the training. One of the graduates, Abasiama Edet, said: “I am grateful and fulfilled.”

SUG speaker impeached

EMBERS of the legislative arm of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun in Delta State have impeached their Speaker. George Nwabuzor, a HND student of Petroleum Marketing and Business Studies, was removed last Friday for alleged financial impropriety. The Speaker was impeached just as the tenure of the union was coming to an end. A vote of no confidence was passed on George by 16 of the 28 members of the parliament. A member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said George had been involved in bribery and embezzlement of sitting allowances of members. The Speaker was accused of intolerance against members, especially some of them in OND programmes. The source said George had escaped being impeached several times, saved by his loyalists in the house. At the sitting where the Speaker was impeached, CAMPUSLIFE gathered that it was George’s

• George From TPrincewill Jacob

PTI supporters that moved the motion for his impeachment. After the impeachment, George was reported to have refused to pull off the ceremonial wig, and struggled with members to grab the mace before he was eventually forced to step down from the Speaker’s seat. A new Speaker has since been elected. He is Olayinka Owomoyela, an HND student of Petroleum and Natural Gas Processing.

Muslim law students hold confab

•Students lamenting their fate after their exams were disrupted.

Faculty disrupts exam for registration

INAL year students of the Faculty of Education, University of Calabar (UNICAL), were

shocked when officials of the faculty kicked them out of examination halls for failing to complete their registration. The incident led to confusion in Pavilions 1, 2 and 3, where the students were writing their exam. The officials, led by the Dean of the faculty, Prof Florence Obi, stormed the exam venues and ordered students to vacate the halls for incomplete registration. Distressed Honest Mfon, 400-

From Sam Ibok, UNICAL

Level Educational Administration and Planning, told CAMPUSLIFE that the faculty officials were doing the right thing at the wrong time. “There was no official information prior to the ejection of students from exam halls. Why didn’t they tell us before we entered the halls to write our exam?” she queried. Some of the affected students said the disrupted paper was the reason they were still on campus, saying

postponing the exam to a later date would subject them to hardship. “Our foodstuff have finished and we don’t have any money with us again. How do they want us to survive?” one of them lamented. According to Prof Obi, the action was to make students to know that departmental and faculty registrations are compulsory, adding that many of the students had not paid their dues. The course lecturers urged the students to be calm, promising that the exam would be rescheduled to a later date.

USLIM law students across universities have held a conference to sharpen their skills in advocacy and to discuss national issues affecting youths. The event, held at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), was organised by the National Association of Muslim Law student (NAMLASS). The event was tagged: “Shariah: A tool for youth resourcefulness and social economic development in Nigeria.” Prof Z.I. Oseni, a Senior Lecturer from the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), who was the guest speaker, said lack of good leadership contributed to the backwardness the country is witnessing. He emphasised that good leaders needed not to command or direct but to lead by example. Urging students to work hard to be successful, Oseni quoted the Hadith of Prophet Mohammed, saying: “Use your youth age to work in order to use your old age to enjoy.” During an interactive session on the Shariah: Repulsive to insecurity, injustice and socio-economy stasis, Hon. Luqman Muhammad and Colonel Mohammed Otokiti, said the students were told not to embrace extreme views on religious issues. The resource persons noted that members of the Boko Haram sect were not Muslims due to their philosophy, which they said was not in tandem with Islamic

From Adeyemi Onikoro

LASU teachings. The event also featured Quranic contest between participating institutions and a special Jumat service. A student of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria won the contest. The last day of the event witnessed the display of students’ advocacy skills in a moot court trial. The participating schools were divided into plaintiffs and defendants to argue on the point of Islamic family law. Medical paternity of child under Islamic law was the bone of contention. After the argument from both parties, the presiding judge took his time to explain the position of the law in an Islamic perspective to the both parties. At the end of the trial, the President of the association, Abubaka Iyabargi, a student of ABU, praised the delegates, saying the four-day event was a success. ABU, UNILORIN, UNIBEN, Lagos State University (LASU), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Law Studies (CAILS) took part in the event.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE The Centre for Women, Gender and Development Studies (CWGDS) in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Health Technology (IEHT), Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), has held a conference on the management of global health. SANI MOHAMMED (500-Level Environmental Health Technology) reports.

Fighting global health challenges

LOBAL health is said to be the well-being of a people in a global context and it transcends the perspectives of individual nations. It is the worldwide improvement of health, reduction of disparities and protection against global diseases that disregard nations’ borders. Exposure to transnational threat such as climate change, poverty, violence and others and a feeling of shared responsibility among affected nations has, today, necessitated a more global approach to improving the health of the world. Based on this reality, the Centre for Women, Gender and Development Studies (CWGDS), a unit in the office of the Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Health Technology (IEHT), organised a conference on the management of global health. Its theme was Global health: Issues, challenges and management. In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chigozie Asiabaka, said the university had a mandate to research into health-related issues and health technology to produce profession-

als and specialists in the area. He said IEHT would also provide relevant information and awareness on health and environmental issues and proffer implementable solutions for the benefit of mankind. The Acting Director of the centre, Dr Ihuoma Asiabaka, who is the wife of the VC, noted: “Global health problems are as a result of economic, social, environmental, political and health care inequalities and thus require solution from interdisciplinary teams in such areas as health, education, social sciences, science and technology.” She listed global health challenges to include HIV/AIDS, malaria, emergency and refugee health, noncommunicable diseases and fatal injuries among other. She observed that there was need for collaborative national and transnational efforts using evidencebased policy research to improve health equity without relenting in promotion of strategies to develop parameters of good health. Presenting a paper on theme, Prof Linus Amobi of Community Medicine Department, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, noted that global health had

• Participants at the conference become a developing field in the last two decades. Recognition of the global HIV/ AIDS crisis and rapid spread of epidemics such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), anthrax, Ebola virus and swine flu, he said, have reinforced the challenges collectively facing nations of the world. He said: “For instance, health care systems are still neither available nor accessible in Nigeria; infrastructural decay has threatened the available health care systems, while non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic lung diseases still threaten to Nigerians at the ages of 30 and above. Hundreds of children under the age of five die yearly of malnutrition, diarrhoea, measles and respiratory diseases, which are mostly preventable.” The biggest challenge in global health, said Prof Amobi, is the lack of financial resources to combat the multiple health issues ravaging the poor and sick. He said more funds

were needed to prevent and cure diseases than ever before. “For the world to begin to address health issues, three principles of action should be considered. Conditions of daily life have to be improved; inequitable distribution of power, money and other resources has to be tackled and a workforce that is trained in social determinants of health has to be developed, and a public awareness has to be raised about the social determinants of health,” Prof Amobi said. Other lecturers delivered papers including Dr I. E. Anigbogu of the Faculty of Law, Madonna University, Okija, who spoke on Sex, sexuality and gender imbalance. The conference was well-attended by lecturers and students across the nation. Aisha Aminu, a participant from the Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU), Katsina said: “The papers presented, especially on gender inequality, are products of good research. Though I was pessimistic

on coming, but my attendance is not a waste of time.” For Emmanuel Ugobo, 400-Level Public Health, University of Calabar (UNICAL), the conference had equipped him with knowledge on safe motherhood and gender imbalance. Abdullahi Mustapha, a lecturer from Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education in Kumbotso, Kano State, who presented two papers, said: “The beauty of the conference is that, many participants came from other parts of the nation to interact, educate and proffer solution to various challenges facing the health care delivery.” At the end of the conference, a communiqué was issued, which emphasised among others the importance of safe motherhood, the challenges of drugs and alcohol abuse, relationship between poverty and ill health and improper waste disposal practice. Recommendations were also given to combat the challenges.

How to promote culture The Department of Sociology and Anthropology of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has held a cultural symposium for students of the department. KEMI BUSARI (400-Level Political Science) writes.

HE World Cultural Day may have come and gone, but the memory of the cul-

tural celebration held at the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, will linger in the memory of students. The programme with the theme: Cultural dialogue and integration: A pathway to unity and development in Nigeria was attended by lecturers, Sociology students from the Federal University of Oye (FUOYE), Oye-Ekiti. Mr Joshua Ayodele, a lecturer in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, OAU, in his address, noted that though many rolled out drums to celebrate their cultures, the world had been reduced to an artificial object. He said it was important for nations to engage in cultural dialogue to achieve development. He said: “Since culture is a way of life of people, there is the need for proper representation of such people in the cultural dialogue. This will go a long way in promoting unity and understanding among various cultural elements.” Stressing that cultural dialogue should be an ongoing process, the sociologist said every informed individual needed to be actively

involved in promoting peaceful coexistence of various cultures. He added: “It is observed that cultures have been more developed today than in the past. This development is due to the enlargement in trade, technology, education and migration.” Emphasising that cultural dialogue remains the solution to Nigeria’s challenge, Ayodele said discouraging dialogue would lead to ignorance, intolerance and loss of opportunity to learn about one another’s way of life. Prof Moses Awogbaje, a lecturer, said the focus on study of culture was to identify diversity, which he described as a major problem in every plural society. “For us to develop as a nation, we need to identify and proffer solutions to the problem of diversity,” he charged. Dr Lateef Adisa, who represented the head of the department, said harmonisation of cultures must be taken into consideration in dialogues about peace and unity among cultural elements. His words: “We need to focus on the non-material aspect of our culture; there is no nation that can develop if citizens are chosen on standards alien to their culture.” Olawale Olatujoye, chairman of organising committee, said he

•Urhobo students performing at the event

•Ayodele with some of the students was delighted by the success of the programme, urging students to advance the cause of peace.

The programme also featured Ifa presentation by students. Also, Urhobo students presented while

members of Kegites Club thrill the participants with their gyration songs.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

A vote for dress codes on campuses

AMPUSES are considered places of freedom by many students. After being admitted into a higher institution, a student believes that he has passed the stage of parental control in his life. Many students go to school with such mindsets, believing that they have become adults and should be independent. On campuses, such freedom has been abused in many ways. It is no news that campuses have turned to runways for indecent dresses. It is a common sight to see a male student with sagging pair of trousers that reveal the underwear and shirts laying bare the chest. Ladies put on tight shorts and skirts that reveal the shapes and contours of their body. Male students design their trousers in such a way to open their waist, thus exposing the upper parts of the buttocks and lower abdomen. Their shirts are short, hardly covering the abdomen and revealing the upper curves of the breasts and the skin between them. Others put on tight trousers, revealing the body’s details and skin colour. The prevalence of this mode of dressing is stimulating a debate on whether dress codes should be enforced on campuses. This essay examines arguments for both sides and concludes that dress codes enforcement is long overdue on our campuses. F Nigeria is to make rapid progress on all fronts internally, and if she’s to make her mark on the continent of Africa, and, indeed, in the comity of nations, her youths must be fully mobilised and be prepared to offer willingly and without asking for rewards in return, their best in the service of their nation at all times,” Gen. Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State, said during the inauguration of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on June 4, 1973. Prior to being mobilised for the National Youth Service, I used to think of horrific experiences I would go through during my service year. Fresh from the furnace, which higher institution campuses can be called, a graduate is made to live with yet another people from different cultural backgrounds with a meagre stipend and no accommodation. I got the impression that the scheme was a post-civil war panacea for reuniting the country. Well, our leaders caused the civil war but why are they disturbing my life by asking me to heal the wound they had caused? So I thought. When I was younger, I really hoped that events and government in Nigeria would abolish this mandatory service before it got to my turn. Today, however, I write this piece as a Corps member and a willing participant in a scheme I once wished should be abolished. And it is amazing that I discovered the beauty of the scheme just in my first few months of active service to my

“I

Those who support implementation of dress codes argue that indecent dresses cause distraction on campus. They claim that such dresses make it difficult for students and staff to concentrate on their tasks. Bad dresses are also blamed for the increasing sexual harassment and rape of female students on campuses. The argument is that provocative dresses seduce men and arouse a desire, which forces them to want to have carnal knowledge of girls at all cost. Promiscuity and moral corruption prevalent on our campuses are also attributed to indecent dressing. As a solution to this trend, proponents of dress codes call for an enforcement of strict regulation to stop people from going naked. The codes oblige students and staff to dress in conformance to certain standards. This is then enforced by security personnel on campus. Pro-dress code advocates met a stiff opposition in activists and women groups that argue dress codes are targeted at women to constitute a form of gender discrimination. They insisted that female students have the freedom to dress the way they want without being harassed by anybody. The discrimination story is not true. First, dress codes are not made only for females. The regulations

prohibit certain bad habits of male students such as sagging, putting on earrings and plaiting of hair. Secondly, it is interesting that the feminist groups do not say dressing indecently is right. Instead, they argue people have freedom to dress the way they so wish. However, they must also know that the concept of freedom is not absolute. Let us imagine what would happen if I park a tanker across the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway because I have freedom to park my vehicle where I want to. Another road user comes and insists on his freedom to pass. Multiply this scenario across the various instances we have to make decisions daily and one will discover how chaotic the society will become. So, it is in everyone’s interest for freedom to be regulated. In geography examination, for instance, a student has the freedom to write that the earth has a rectangular shape. But we all have general belief that earth is spherical. If the student writes that eath is rectangular, he fails. This means he cannot express his freedom of alternative thought absolutely. And if students are not free to write whatever they want in their exams, why should they be free to put on anything (clothes) to the exam hall? Is this concept of freedom not rather contradictory?

One fundamental question the opponents of dressing code have to ask is: when we resist a dressing code, will the resistance be felt at work places? We cannot stretch the issue of freedom that far. If students put on whatever they want because they have the freedom, what happens when they also insist on the freedom to come for lectures any time they want? If our institutions are training students, so that they can cope with challenges in the labour market, should they not also equip them with codes of conduct – including dressing – that are acceptable to the society in which this labour market exists? Or are we alluding to the claim that Nigeria is a codeless – or put succinctly – lawless society? In fact, the question of dress codes touches on the fundamental character of our society. What sort of people are we? Why do we exhibit undisguised affinity for lawlessness, corruption and allergic to discipline? We do not want to stand in the queue. We do not keep time. We do not even want to work full hours. We just want to be paid quick and fast. It shows that something is fundamentally wrong with our value system and perhaps, it is because we have debated the enforcement of codes of conduct for too long. We must, however, understand that dress codes

By Msonter Anzaa should not involve imposition of rigid rules on students. Instead, it should give general guidelines within which individuals can improve their creativity and remain fashionable. There is need for regulation of our dress habits to minimise sexual harassment and promiscuity, reduce distraction and generally instill in us, a culture of discipline and moderation, which is the main attribute of education. Given the current level of indecency exhibited on our campuses, dress codes should not just be enforced; it must be enforced now. Msonter, 200-Level Medicine, BSU Makurdi

How NYSC changed my view of the North By Nnaemeka Anyiam fatherland. When I was posted to Zamfara State, it took me time to get over the trauma. After I got my call-up letter, I sat on a fence for hours, ruing what had befallen me. With growing insecurity in the North, I had thought I was going for a journey of no return. But was it funny? My colleagues, who got posted to relatively peaceful parts of the country, mocked me, as though it was all planned. Some of them pitied me and said sweet words to douse my fear. The thought of redeployment came to mind. Friends asked me to feign incurable ailment just to get out of Zamfara State after the three-week orientation. Hitherto, I had been told the story of Zamfara and its strict Sharia Legal system during the administration of Governor Ahmad Yerima. We heard stories of amputation as punishment for even mild offences. Since I could not change the posting immediately, I left for the state with open mind. It was when I got to the state that I knew all the stories we heard in the South were actually exaggerated. In the orientation camp, dance and drama competitions held for Corps members brought together people of various tribes of the country to

foster unity. I heard languages I never thought existed; names I could never pronounce. We discussed issues ranging from insecurity and corruption and it was surprising to see my fellow Corps members condemning evil. Our daily activities in the camp always started with a Muslim and Christian prayer and this shows that we are one people indivisible by religion or ethnicity. We were privileged to have top government officials, including the Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad, and the NYSC State Co-ordinator, Mrs Ruth Bakka, to educate us on the state and its people. The Emir stated clearly that Sharia was to guide Muslims on their religious path and thus was not binding on non-Muslims. He said Christians are free to go about their normal business without fear of molestation whatsoever but should dress decently and respect the law of the land. In Southern part, we have different opinion of the North. We were told that places such as Zamfara State belong to Siberia given its low level of education and its culture, which is believed to be brutish and ordinary. We were told that Hausa girls don’t go to school. But I was stunned to see over 3,000 girls in a secondary school in Samaru struggling to get education. In camp, I met Muslim girls, who graduated with bet-

ter grades than many of us from the South. They all wore Hijabs (veil), which were neatly tucked in. I also found that the average Hausa man is trustworthy and down-toearth. When he tells you it is N10 gaskiya (truth), so it is. Tell a motorcyclist that you are stranded and he will be glad to help you to where you are going. At the place of my primary assignment (PPA), senior officials would make tea in a cold morning and share among the staff; even the gatemen would use cups from the Oga’s office. But Ogas in the south are to be feared from afar. One’s effort to learn Hausa language is instantly rewarded with slashed prices of commodities. When I was posted to my PPA in Kaura Namoda and I lost my way, I was directed to the lodge of Muslim Corps members, where I was fed and attended to regardless of my religious affiliation. This selfless service to has constantly been rendered by the Nigerian Christian Corpers Fellowship (NCCF), Muslim Corpers Association of Nigeria (MCAN), Catholic Corpers Association and the likes. These organisations are made up of Nigerians helping Nigerians regardless of tribe or tongue. This is one of the dividends of the NYSC scheme. I am now confident that the scheme is steadily achieving its objective, which is “to inculcate in Ni-

gerian youths the spirit of selfless service to the community and to emphasise the spirit of oneness and brotherhood of all Nigerians, irrespective of cultural or social background.” Serving in Zamfara State has afforded me a lot of opportunities I would not have had if I remained in my Eastern zone. At least, I have experienced Zamfara for myself and can now separate fact from fiction. The state is peaceful and friendly. You are appreciated as a Corps member. The state even has good amusement park when my Imo State cannot boast of one. I have seen their religious practices and I can now compare with mine. I have seen their flaws and I now know how I can help. I have understood that you don’t judge people or any entity from afar; you must come closer, live amongst them and you will be amazed at how much you did not know. More importantly, I have seen that we are all the same people and can exist as one; you as a Christian and I as a Muslim, life will still go on. Our cultural and religious differences are simply variety, which we all know are spices of life. There is really no need for the hate anyone because of his tongue, background or faith. Nnaemeka is a Corps member, NYSC GUSAU

Let’s stop violence against women

By Ayobami Fasusi

was at a debate recently and the subject of discussion was superiority of male over

female children. I am not referring to the secondary school debate we participated in where two parties tried to outdo each other. Here, it was a serious debate, which left everyone dazed. When I was younger, I heard stories of men who became polygamists to have a male child, thereby causing undue rivalry between their wives and breaking their homes. In fact, in some cases, first wives were sent out of their husbands’ houses because they could not give birth to male children. I sympathised with such women. In my naivety and ignorance, I had also concluded that women should always try to bear male child or

children to secure their marriage since most husbands cherished male children. This barbaric idea that a woman must give birth to a male child before her marriage could be peaceful still exists in this modern world. My view about women bearing male children, however, changed when I attended BIO 201 classes, which is on genetics. The veil of ignorance was removed from my eyes when we were taught that “men, not women, are determinant of the sex of a child”. With mixed feelings, I was made to understand the facts that, genetically speaking, in human beings, there are 46 chromosomes in each body cell, which are in a pair, that

is, 23 in a pair. Out of 23 chromosomes in each pair, 22 are called autosomes and have no direct effect on the sex of an individual. The last one is the chromosome that determines the sex of a baby after fertilisation. A man possesses X and Y chromosomes, while all eggs produced by a woman contain two ‘X’ chromosomes. During mating, if semen with an ‘X’ chromosome from the man fuses with an egg in a woman having the X chromosome, the zygote (fertilised egg) becomes XX, which is a girl. But if semen with ‘Y’ chromosome fuses with an egg bearing X chromosome in a woman, it becomes a male zygote. A woman is naturally ‘XX’, but a

man is the one with the one with the X and Y. If the X chromosome of a man keeps fertilising the X egg in a woman, baby girls will continue to be produced. Also, if the Y chromosome keeps fertilising the X egg in a woman, babies that will be produced from such mating will be boys. This is why some families have several girls and boys, while others only have a mixture of both genders. Through this discipline of genetics, I was set free of my ignorance. But what about women, who did not have the privilege to get this kind of information and are moth•Continued on page 36

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE Fellowship organises Jesus Sales

HE Redeemed Christian Fellowship (RCF), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife chapter, has held a trade fair tagged “Jesus Sales” for students. The fair started on a Saturday at the covered pavilion of the Sport Complex with exhortation by pastors in the fellowship. Students were told not to see the trade fair as an avenue to buy items at cheaper prices, but instead they should see it as a propagation of love to the needy. After the brief sermon, tags were distributed to ensure the purchase of food items at low prices. Packaged foods and beverages such

From Titi Fadeyibi,

OAU as noodles, sachets of milk and Bournvita were sold for as low as N20. Sachet of Spaghetti went for N50 and a kongo of rice and beans went for N250 each. Students swarmed the venue to get food items. One of the welfare officers of the fellowship said the food items were donated to be sold by unnamed philanthropists. But the proceeds from the sales would be used to fund activities of the fellowship and members’ needs. Orphans would also benefit from the proceeds.

•Students buying noodles during the fair

Let’s stop violence against women •Continued from page 35

ers of several daughters, who have been victimised by their husbands because they could not bear male children? Such women will be obsessed with fear of losing their marriage. Some women have become regular customers of herbalists and fetish doctors because they are seeking male child. They pay huge sum for fetish concoctions, which may not eventually work out. There are other women, who have deliberately gone on hunger strike, in the name of fasting and have been reduced to a broomstick. Women, take this free advice: you have been programmed with X chromosomes, it is men that deter-

mine your baby’s sex with his X or Y chromosome. Why must you make your daughters feel inferior when you want to kill yourself over a male child? You must know that girl-child is also useful and productive. After all, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala the coordinating minister of Nigeria’s economy is a woman. What about billionaire Folorusho Alakija, Mrs Bisi Fayemi, Dame Patience Jonathan, Stella Oduah, Deputy Governor Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire, T.Y. Bello and other women who have shown that what a man can do, women can do better? You better live your life and be happy. If you are in dire need of a

male child and you want to go spiritual, pray to God. He will definitely grant your request. To husbands, please stop putting undue pressure on your wives. You, and not your wife, are the major determinant of your baby’s sex. Stop domestic violence. Instead, love and cherish your wives. Daughters are children too. If another man did not give birth to a girl, how will a male child marry? If you are not patient enough to let nature take its course, then maybe you should go for genetic counselling. No woman should be victimised again. I am proud to be one. Ayobami, 300-Level Zoology, EKSU

On and Off Campus By Solomon Izekor 08061522600

Agric students hold lecture

REENERS’ Association, a students’ group under the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Students (NAAS), University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), has held a lecture with the theme: Channelling youth energy to agriculture: A panacea to national unrest. Organised with the aim of encouraging students to see opportunities in farming, the lecture suggested measures for agriculture to be a catalyst for national development. Greeners’ Association President Abdulraheem Abdulraheem said the group was a professional one, which organises practical sessions for agricultural students to have the basic skill. He urged his colleagues to always engage in practical than theory to have a deep knowledge in feed formulation, artificial insemination and moringa. He urged the students not to depend on government policy on agriculture, which he said was not being implemented. Ahmed Aliyu, a member of the group, spoke on quail eggs, which he said were nutritional. He observed that the Japanese quail was first domesticated in China and matured within six weeks for the production of eggs. He said the quail was experimental birds that reacted faster to drugs and the result could be got within two weeks when administered compared to cattle, which may take more than

From Olushola Aremu

UNILORIN

eight months for the drug to react. Ahmed said when three to four eggs were taken, it could help to stimulate appetite, cure tuberculosis and is good for brain development. The guest lecturer, Dr A.Z. Aderolu, from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), said channeling the energy of youths to agriculture should be the aim of policy makers. He noted that majority of students did not want to engage in farming. Narrating an experience as a student, Aderolu said he had collaborated with a friend to buy 500 hens for rearing, all of which died after they were infected with Gumboro disease. The incident , he said, caused a huge loss to him and his friend. But he said he was determined to continue with the business. “As I talk to you, I have thousands of broilers and layers that produce more than 350 crates of eggs daily; I have a breeder that produces thousands of breeds in one week and lots of business I am managing,” he said. He told the students to have mentors and develop their enterprising abilities, admonishing that the road may be rough at first but determination would make them to overcome challenges.

Shut out from the outside world •Continued from page 31

wellbeing,” she posited. Some students have resorted to sending messages on Facebook and other social media to their loved ones. Others travel to Zing town, which is a border between Taraba State and Adamawa State, to make call to their families. On the campus, students use the old method of dropping notes to communicate with one another. Peter Habila, 500-Level Information Technology, said: “There is fear everywhere because nobody knows what is happening in Yola. I had to travel to Zing to place a call to my parents for them to know that I am still alive.” Meanwhile, students have accused the police of profiting from the security situation in the state. There are unconfirmed allegation that the policemen attached to Girei Police Station in Sangere Village, one of the university’s host communities, have been arresting students found outside their off-campus hostels after 7pm.

The arrested students, CAMPUSLIFE gathered, were being asked to pay between N3,000 and N5,000 to regain freedom. There are reports of arrest of 27 students, who were returning from where they went to watch football match. According one of the victims, who did not say his name, the policemen parked their Hilux Van at a hidden spot and swooped in on the students, who were loudly discussing the outcome of the match on their way home. It was gathered that some of them, who brought out their identity cards were asked to pay N3,000 while that could not identify themselves paid N5,000 each. Khalid Idris, a member of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), described the action of the police as wicked. “It is plain wickedness for the police to go to the students’ village in search of people to arrest. The students they arrest in most cases cannot even afford to pay for their freedom.” The Divisional Police Officer of the police station could be reached for comments.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

Ebonyi college demotes 15 dons for certificate forgery

IFTEEN lecturers of the Ebonyi State College of Education, Ikwo, have been demoted over alleged certificate forgery. They claimed to have acquired Ph.D degrees from reputable institutions outside the country. However, a committee set up to investigate their claims, found them to be false. In a statement, the Public Relations Officer of the College, Mr. Nkwuda Bethrand Otukobelu, noted that the affected lecturers would not be allowed to go for

any promotion course until after three years. He said: “A lot of processes were followed in verification and evaluation of the certificates of the lecturers involved. Six of the lecturers who had their Ph.Ds from the institutions should stop parading themselves as Ph.D holders and stop adding the title ‘Dr.’ to their names. “That as regards to their present positions, nine of them have been demoted to lecturer III; two to assistant lecturers and the remaining two to non-academic

staff for not possessing relevant qualifications to be in the academic cadre. “That six of them, who enjoyed financial benefits with the controversial certificates are to refund such benefits which accrued to them in excess of their present new position. “Findings by the Committee and letters from the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the Federal Ministry of Education show that the institutions were neither approved nor recognised by the

Federal Government of Nigeria.” At a press conference in Abakaliki, the Special Adviser to Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State on Higher Education, Prof Mike Ituma, said the discovery shocked the government. He said the actions of the affected lecturers were a reflection of the level of decay ravaging the sector. He said the state supports the college for its action on the matter, describing it as a step in the right direction.

AUN peaceful •Resumes for summer II session

HE American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, began its Summer II session on Tuesday. Dr. Fidelis Ndeh-Che, Chief of Staff to AUN President, Margee Ensign, who announced this, said the Summer II would b end on August 6, paving the way for the fall semester. Despite the state of emergency in Adamawa State, Ndeh-Che said the Summer I session, which ended on June 25, was peaceful. “The AUN campus is a calm oasis that proved conducive to learning and teaching. In addition to classroom attendance, a number of students committed themselves to independent study,” he said. The Registrar, Monique Davis, added that the curfew has been wellmanaged by the institution. “Every person has been focused on their tasks. The emergency rule with the ensuing curfew has been handled well by the AUN community and our supportive parents across the country.” Paul Onwura, a software engineering major, said his parents believe it is “beautiful and safe” within the AUN environment. Another student, Murna Mamman, is joining the Summer II programme as a new AUN student. She said she would like to explore the American system of education. All students are required to participate in AUN’s development projects that range from literacy training using ICT to the Adamawa Peacemakers Initiative.

EKSU FILE

24 students expelled TWENTY-FOUR students of the Ekiti State University (EKSU), AdoEkiti, found guilty of committing offences, ranging from examination misconduct to belonging to unregistered associations, have been expelled. Their expulsion was confirmed by the management after appearing before the Students’ Disciplinary Committee. Also, over 300 students have been rusticated for one session for examination misconduct. With seven expelled students, the Zoology Department had the largest number among the lot. They are: Ajigbotowo Bayo, and Jewole Oluwasoji, Ajayi Francis, Adeoye Esther, Oni Foluso, Adetipe Moyo and Adeosun Emmanuel. Economics Education has four students. They are Ayegbusi Omotade, Ojo Akinrinde, Olatunji Richard, and Omotola Opeoluwa of Economics Education; while Microbiology had five: Iroko Sulaiman Akanbi, Adegboye Dickson, Omotosho Ebenezer, Tubi Mojisola and Olowe Temitope. Others are: Ajibola Olarewaju (Business Administration), Isijola Olarewaju (Philosophy), Akinluyi Adebemiwo (Geography & Planning Science), Abdukarim Mohammed (Banking & Finance), Adebowale Daniel (Elect/Electronics), Omosebi Julius (Chemistry), Adewole Segun (Mathematics) and Odeniyi Fehintola (Plant Science).

Council sacks six workers •From Left: Dr. Moruf Adebakin, Deputy Rector (Admin); Dr Barry, Dr Ladipo and Dr. Moodey Richard after signing the pact.

YABATECH partners Irish institute

HE Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) is to partner Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), Ireland, on research and development. The alliance will also cover advanced articulation arrangement for undergraduate and post graduate students, staff exchange programmes and joint conferences. A statement by the YABATECH Public Relations Officer, Mr Adekunle Adams, noted that the Rector, Dr. Margaret Kudirat Ladipo, received representatives

of the institute, last week. She told the visitors that YABATECH had maintained a very high standard in the past 60 years. Dr. Ladipo praised the management of the institute for partnering with the college. She assured them that YABATECH will work towards the success of the collaboration. The Head of the WIT delegation, Dr. Paul Barry, said plans to visit YABATECH had been on for two years. He said the 42-year-old institute awards diploma, degree as well as

postgraduate and doctoral certificates, assuring the YABATECH management of its commitment to ensuring that the collaboration achieves its desired goals. Barry commended the efforts of the Nigerian community in Waterford for facilitating their visit to Nigeria. Mr Omotesho, President of the Nigerian community in Waterford, said the institute’s visit to Nigeria is as a result of efforts made to be good ambassadors of Nigeria in Ireland and invest in the country’s development.

THE EKSU Governing Council has approved the dismissal of three senior academic staff for alleged manipulation of examination scores, plagiarism and failure to serve the university after being sponsored abroad. Another three had their appointments terminated for gross academic misconduct, falsification of employment records and sexual harassment. The council took the decision at its 108th meeting, where recommendations of the Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee on the concerned staff were considered.

Students’ unionism resumes THE EKSU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Oladipo Aina, has lifted the suspension on Students Union activities. However, the management has stipulated that only duly registered students who have paid their school fees in full would be allowed to participate in the union election either as contestants or voters. Also, contestants for any elective position must not have lower than 2.50 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). The approved time table and guidelines for the election is expected to be out soon.

•From right: Mr Muhammed Ibrahim Adejoh, a representative of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment on the Council of the Federal Polytechnic Offa; Alhaji Baba Idi Bamamu, a representative of the National Board for Technical Education; Dr. Mufutau Olatiwo, Rector; Chief Okey Ezenwa, Chairman of Council; Alhaji AbdulHamid Raji; Registrar and Secretary to Council; Hon. Adamu Gora Kalba, member of the new Governing Council, Tunde Odanye, member and Mallam Sani Nura, a representative of the Federal Ministry of Education at a reception for the new council organised by the polytechnic.

•Prof Aina

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS

FEDPOFFA FILE

APPROACHING DEADLINES

Council hosted THE Federal Polytechnic, Offa (FEDPOFFA) has received members of its newly inaugurated Governing Council at a colourful reception witnessed by members of the staff, union members and students. In his speech, the Chairman of the council, Chief Okey Ezenwa, expressed appreciation for the warm reception. He promised that the new Council would build on the successes of its predecessor. Expressing the hope that the Federal Government and the striking unions will find amicable solution to areas of disagreement, Ezenwa assured staff that all local issues would be tackled and sorted out amicably. Earlier, the Rector Dr Mufutau Olatinwo, said the Council the institution has remained a centre for technological innovations and scientific breakthroughs, adding that it is determined to continue to be relevant to national development through meaningful researches, useful fabrications and productions.

New deputy rectors DR. Ayodele Kuburat Olaosebikan and Mr Biaminu Oshe Saliu have been appointed deputy rectors. While Dr Kuburat Olaosebikan is in charge of Administration, Mr Saliu will manage Academic Matters. Their appointment followed the approval by the Minister of Education, Prof Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i, on the recommendation of the Expanded Management Committee of the Polytechnic. The new deputies will replace Pastor John Ayeni and Mr. Eghe Igbinehi whose second terms in office have expired. Prior to her appointment, Dr Olaosebikan was the Dean, Centre for Continuing Education (CCE). Olaosebikan, who was born in June 1959, is an alumni of the University of Ibadan where she studied English. Mr Saliu was born in July 1952. He had his first degree in Mathematics from the Ahmadu Bello University in 1979. He had his Masters in Mathematics in 1983 at the University of Ilorin.

International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS) at Australian Universities Australian Gov’t/DIISR MS/PhD Degree Brief description: Top of Form Bottom of Form The International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS) program is funded by the Australian Government, Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research (DIISR). The IPRS program was established to maintain and develop international research linkages and specifically aims to: • attract top quality international postgraduate students to areas of research strength in Australian higher education providers; and • support Australia’s research effort. The IPRS program enables international students to undertake a postgraduate research qualification in Australia and gain experience with leading Australian researchers. The scholarships are available for a period of

two years for a Masters by research degree or three years for a Doctorate by research degree. Field of study: Any postgraduate research programme offered at participating Australian Universities. Number of Awards: Around 330 are awarded annually. The allocation of IPRS grants to participating universities is based on a formula that is reflective of their overall research performance. Target group: Scholarships are open to international students of all countries (except Australia and New Zealand). Scholarship value/inclusions: The scholarship covers tuition fees, living allowance, and health cover costs. Eligibility: To be eligible for an IPRS, a student must: (a) be an international student; and (b) meet international student visa requirements as specified by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), including the requirement to purchase and maintain a standard Overseas Student Health Cover policy approved by the Common-

wealth Government Department of Health and Ageing; and (c) be commencing full-time enrolment for the first time in a HDR at an eligible scholarship provider in Australia; and (d) be undertaking study in a subject area identified by the provider as one of its areas of research concentration; and (e) not hold a research qualification regarded by the provider to be equivalent to an Australian Research Doctorate degree or, if undertaking a Research Masters degree, not hold a research qualification regarded by the provider to be equivalent to or higher than an Australian Research Masters degree; and (f) not have held an Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) scholarship within the two years prior to commencing the IPRS; and (g) not be receiving a scholarship for which course tuition is a component under any other scholarship scheme to which the Australian Government makes a substantial contribution. You must check with the Universities if they require specific eligibility requirements. Application instructions: Applications for a scholarship need

to be made directly to a participating Universities/Higher Education Providers (HEPs) in Australia. HEPs are responsible for determining the selection process by which scholarships are allocated to applicants. The deadline varies among universities but is around July-October each year. It is important to visit the website of the University where you intend to apply and the official website (link found below) for detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship. Contact information: All enquiries regarding IPRS awards need to be directed to the university at which the applicant wishes to conduct their postgraduate research. Website: Official Scholarship Website: http:/ /www.innovation.gov.au/Research/ResearchBlockGrants/ Pages/InternationalPostgraduate ResearchScholarships.aspx Related Scholarships: List of Australia Scholarships •Source link: http:// www.scholars4dev.com/3023/international-postgraduate-scholarshipsat-australian-universities/ #ixzz2TBbe2skt

‘Cost of malaria to Nigeria’s GDP is 6%’

PROFESSOR of Zoology at the University of Ilorin, Uade S. Ugbomoiko, has put the yearly cost of malaria to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at between one and six per cent. The economic costs of parasitic diseases are significant, creating an ugly development that has a heavy toll on productivity, Ugbomoiko said. Ugbomoiko, who spoke in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, while delivering the university’s 134th inaugural lecture, noted that foreign investment could reduce the GDP by as much as 20 per cent or more by the next decade in some sub-Saharan Af-

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

rican countries. The lecture was entitled: “That we may lay siege.” He said: “In Sub-Saharan Africa, hundreds of millions of people are afflicted with these parasites, and more than a quarter of the affected population has one or more infections occurring simultaneously. “The advocated health for all by 2020 in the face of the government complacency and lack of funding, in an environment where the gap between the rich and poor widens daily is likely to be a mirage without con-

certed efforts to change behavioural activities that cause the bulk of human parasitic diseases. “It is high time the government saw the occurrence of ancient parasitic diseases in the present century as a social defect and formulate appropriate political will to address them. To achieve a qualitative and holistic control of these parasites, we must evolve a broad-based strategy that will combine good planning, policy consistency with a strong progressive refinement guidelines supported by strong framework for its implementation. According to him, technology and

chemotherapic strategies in disease control will ameliorate the growing threats of infectious animals, but are unlikely to provide what is needed to control parasitic diseases in Africa. Said he: “Improving the health of the poor is therefore not through technology alone, but by ensuring that the basic needs of all are met through intervention that is emancipatory in action. Therefore, the option of behavioral change that will cost nothing to the government and the concerned individual will successfully complement disease control efforts.”

Commissioner seeks youth environmental advocacy By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

AGOS State Commissioner for the Environment Mr Tunji Bello has advocated the inclusion of youths in environmental advocacy. He said over the years, adults had continued to assume that they know best but the convention on the rights of child demands that we question that assumption. The commissioner spoke at the fifth anniversary of Climate Change Club for schools. He urged adults to listen to children and ensure that their views inform decisions and actions taken on behalf of them. Bello stated that state Governor Babatunde Fashola is driven by the vision of attaining a cleaner and sustainable environment, believing that promoting children’s participation in this sphere is about fulfilling their rights to be active citizens that can always rise in defense of the environment. He commended the children on their achievements in the areas of “ Me and My Tree Programme” waste management, waste sorting, the 3 Rs( Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) environmental advocacy, noting that it has greatly enhanced government’s effort at curbing degradation in the environment.

•From left: Patrick Tolani, Joseph Olutomisin, Sir Remi Omotoso, Elizabeth Preye Joseph Obene, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), Odein Ajumogobia (SAN), Dr Chinyere Ozumba, Dr Jhalil Balewa, and Tony Agbojo, all members of the Board of Institute for Oil and Gas, Energy Environment and Sustainable Development (OGEES) during the launch of the institute set up under the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) College of Law, at the university.

UNN alumni to address fallen education in varsities

IEWS on how to rescue education from its prostate state in universities will be the focus at the eight National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Alumni Association, Lagos State chapter which begins today. The three-day event with the theme: “Education standard and the society”, which will be delivered by the Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Ositadinma Nebo, with over 40 branches of the association

By Akinyemi Oluwayemisi

in attendance. The National President of the association Dr Nwane Chioke, would lead other national offices to the Prestigious Standard Alliances Events Centre, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, venue of the event. In a briefing, the Lagos State President of the association, Chief Andrew... said the NEC meeting would also offer another platform for the entire members of the

alumni within and outside Nigeria to rub mind on how to move their alma mater forward. “It also serves an opportunity to sustain networking among members, as they share ideas on various aspects of nation building and professional development in their respective fields of endeavour. The associations will also use the period of the meeting to review new areas that need attention regarding the infrastructural facilities in the institution.” He said the role of alumni asso-

ciation of every university is to ensure that the academic standard of their alma mater does not fall. Adding that their association have a responsibility to sustain the standard they had when they passed through the school. According to Andrew, the Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) of Lagos State will declare the event opened, while Chief Michael Ade Ojo, Chairman, Elizade Group would chair the occasion.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

EDUCATION

59-year-old school, others in Akwa Ibom get facelift

59-YEAR-OLD primary school, Government Primary School, Ikot Otu/ Ndiya Etok, has been renovated by the Akwa Ibom State government. Founded in 1954, the school, which serves two communitiesIkot Otu and Ndiya Etok Ikono in Ikot Ekpene and Ikono local government areas, is now equipped with basic facilities to aid quality teaching and learning. As part of the ongoing inauguration of 448 inter-ministerial projects across the state, the Commissioner for Finance and Chairman Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Committee, Mr. Bassey Akpan, opened two new blocks comprising three classrooms, offices and an assembly hall for the school. Describing government’s intervention in the school as timely, its Headmaster, Mr Ibanga Umoituen, said the free and compulsory education programme of the Governor-Akpabio led government has increased enrolment, leading to

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo inadequacy of classrooms to accommodate pupils. Umoituen, however, hoped that with the renovation of classrooms, the burden of the school has been reduced. He, however, solicited government’s assistance for a perimeter fence, computers and a functional library for the school. Another beneficiary was Primary School Asanting, where a block of six classrooms, offices, as well as two blocks of five classrooms were inaugurated. Also, at the Academy, Iton Odoro, another block of six-classroom was commissioned alongside a science laboratory, an assembly hall, and offices, in addition to a workshop. The Headmaster of Primary School, Asanting, Mr Christian Inyang and the Principal of Trinity Academy, Iton, Mrs Mary Akpan Ituen, expressed appreciation to the tate government for the gesture.

College promises cash, scholarships on cultural awareness

O show its determination to promote cultural awareness and national unity, the management of National College Gbagada Lagos, has promised to give cash prizes and scholarships to students who can speak fluently at least three Nigerian languages. The beneficiaries of the proposed cash prizes must be in the junior classes in the school and must be consistently demonstrating respect for indigenous languages and culture. The students to be selected for cash prizes must also be patriotic and detribalised, well behaved and academically sound. The proprietor of the school Alfred Aina an Engineer, made this known in an address he presented at the maiden

cultural day organised by the school. Speaking, Aina said culture can be used to promote national unity and development if properly harnessed. Aina condemned inadequate use of our indigenous languages, believing Nigeria can adopt one of them as her lingua franca. Aina also advocated what he described as “cultural bonding” which he defines as forging unity by propagating our culture and tradition in such a way that mutual trust and understanding is encouraged. To achieve this, he suggested that there should be home stay exchanges between children from different cultural backgrounds. This, he believes, will lead to unity of purpose.

•Pupils of Dansol High School, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos presenting a Ghanaian dance during the Day of the African Child celebration by Dansol Nursery and Primary School.

Don seeks free education for children

HE Dean, Faculty of Law of the Nasarawa State University, Prof Maxwell Gidado, is seeking free education for every child. He said although corruption and lack of political are impediments to his proposal, Nigeria with her wealth can tackle this effectively. Gidado stated this while answering questions from reporters in Abuja at the commemoration of the ‘Day of the African Child’, organised by Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF), under the theme: Eliminating social and harmful cultural practices against children. He urged Nigerians to stop all harmful cultural habits that inhibit the growth of children. He called

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

on the lawmakers to ensure there is no foot-dragging in passing any law that will inhibit harmful practices against children. “And if they (children) are denied opportunities to grow and be mentored in an atmosphere that we could relax and see them take over from us, then the country is doomed,” he warned. The National Coordinator, WOTCLEF, Mrs Veronica Umaru, said the theme for this years’ day celebration of the day, chosen by the African Union (AU) is appropriate as there are many such practices affecting children in Nigeria. She said though the Child Rights Act (CRA), which is the domestica-

tion of the Convention against the rights of the child, was okay adding that states that are yet to adopt the law should comply. She identifies adults as responsible for the dwindling morals in the society, urging them to be models for children. Meanwhile, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim, said Federal Government is partnering with many Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to stop child abuse, even as government encourages all the states to domesticate the CRA. He added that the celebration is to call attention to the fact that children must always be given their rights which must also be respected.

School heads get computer training

•Members of staff of Olashore International School, Iloko-Ijesa, Osun State with participating pupils at the maiden edition of the Inter/Primary School Challenge organised by the school.

Seadogs donates mobility canes

HE President of the National Association of Seadogs (Pirates Confraternity), Abia State chapter Okechi Utah, has advised visually-impaired persons not to be deterred by their situation but strive to attain the highest position in the society. He said they could only achieve this when they take their studies serious, noting that education is the best avenue the less privileged can explored to greater heights. Okechi gave the advice in Umuahia while handing over 60 mobility canes and T-shirts donated by the group to the inmates of School of the Blind in

From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke Umuahia

Afara, a suburb of Umuahia. He noted that it was by acquiring formal education through selfdetermination that they could realise their life regardless of their visual disability. He said: “In any little way we can, we want to say we are with you. We are your brothers and your sisters. It is in line with our tradition of identifying with the people in the society we feel are in need of assistance and encouragement that we have come today.

“The T-shirt we have given you has an inscription: ‘blind with vision.’ Though you are blind, that does not stop your vision of becoming what you want to be in life. So, we want to encourage you to utilise very well whatever opportunity you have been given to acquire formal education. “What you are may be a temporary setback; that should not deter you from realising you goal in life. God who created you knew what you, will be from your mother’s womb and whatever God has ordained for you, you would accomplish.” Utah also presented some quantities of Braille books.

HE need to prepare teachers for a future in which computers and other technological devices rather than the conventional teacher– to-student teaching method will prevail was the focus among school heads and owners at the Third Head of Schools Summit (HOSS) in Lagos. The event, which drew participants from within and outside Lagos, had as theme “Leadership that shapes the future.” It was organised by the Standard Mandate International (SMI), a human capacity development outfit. Its convener, Mr Nelson Ayodele said Standard Mandate International (SMI) projected into the future to guess how education would look like. “For example, there will be a time when children will no longer come to the classrooms with their bags or books but with their (computer) tablets and the teachers will come in with their own computers with a projector to teach. “A future where the school heads can become Chief Executive Officers (CEOs); not just a teacher as head of school but somebody that can manage and head the school to the point of profitability. We are talking of a future where the classrooms and school environment will look different; where parents will relate with the schools, pay fees and check students’ results in a different manner. Many people can’t see this future now that is why we are,” he said. Any leader that is not learning cannot justify his or her position. He noted that since school heads drive the school, the outfits then decided to bring them together on an yearly basis to talk to them on development, especially as it has to do with

By Medinat Kanabe

education, Information and Communication Technology (ITC), best management practices, human resource issues and dealing with parents. The Chairman of the occasion, Mrs Adenike Adamolekun, who is the proprietor, Supreme Education Foundation Schools, Magodo, Lagos said leadership is not ordering people around but carrying people along with you in establishing and running a system. She said: “Present day systems of administering school is not about wielding power, but mobilising people to face the challenges that require new habits, values, or that promotes new ways of doing old things, by inspiring people to do their work. “It is about defining a compelling vision while also allowing others to realise their vision, about putting right structures and processes in place so people can sharpen their skills and excel in their jobs,” she added. Another speaker, Mr LereBaale who spoke on Benchmarking, advised the school heads to visit other schools, see what makes them better than their’s and emulate them. Mr Kaoli Olusanya, Chief Learning Officer, Kith & Kin Educational Schools Ikorodu, Lagos spoke on Envisioning the future school: Educational inquiry approach, said education is not only important for acquiring facts or knowledge or skills to prepare oneself for making a living, but also about learning how to meet the challenges of one’s time-how to solve problems and adapt to new circumstances.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

EDUCATION EDUTALK

with

A public school encounter

WAS pleasantly surprised by my visit to a public primary school in Lagos about two weeks ago. It was an initiative by a private school, Dansol Nursery and Primary School, Ojodu, to celKofoworola ebrate the Day of the African Child with their less privileged neighbours that took me there. With the support of the Dansol PTA and Kofosagie@yahoo.com some corporate organisations, the 08054503077 (SMS only) school donated bags, writing materials, food and drinks to pupils of Ojodu Primary School I. The materials were more than enough to go round the 1,300 pupils of the school such that even their teachers got something to take home to their wards. Commendable as the initiative is, that was not the highpoint of the programme for me. It was my interaction with pupils of the public school, and their presentation at the second part of the programme that made my day. I am used to visiting public schools and not being able to communicate with the pupils except I repeat myself several times, or speak in the local tongue. I have covered so many events about various interventions by the government, corporate organisations or individuals and the experience has been the same. When it is time to get the views of the pupils, I meet a brick wall. They are so bad in expressing themselves in the English Language that I struggle to piece together an intelligible sentence I can attribute to them. My experience at St John’s Primary School, Ijebu-Igbo in Ogun State, was particularly pathetic. I had tried without much success to get several pupils to tell me how the adoption of their school by Airtel would change their lives. Two journalists from other media houses joined me, so I gladly left the questioning to them. A boy that we asked could only struggle to say something like: “They have house…”, after a long wait to allow him compose his thoughts. By that time I could no longer stop myself from laughing out loud, despite trying not to cause discomfort to the pupils that had gathered to hear their representative speak. A teacher saved the day by selecting the ‘best’ pupil to talk to us. I can tell you that the best barely managed to communicate. This has been my experience in most public schools I visit. To get anything intelligible from the pupils, a teacher has to call out the brightest to speak. However, that was not the case at Ojodu Primary School I two weeks ago. When I requested that the Head Teacher, Mr Adebowale Adaranijo, get me a pupil, he entered a class and said: “Who would like to talk about what happened here today?” Many pupils offered to but it was Titilayo Oyebanji, in Primary Six, who came out to speak with me. She was able to express her appreciation of the gesture so clearly that I asked to speak to someone else, this time, a boy. Mr Adaranijo entered another classroom, repeated his question and called out someone for me. The boy did not disappoint. I had to congratulate Mr Adaranijo for managing his school well. But it wasn’t over. Dansol had invited a team from the school to participate in a cultural programme holding at their high school. They were to join pupils from other private schools to celebrate African countries by parading in their clothes, and talking about their culture, food and the like. Ojodu Primary School I represented Kenya. Other schools represented Liberia, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Ghana and other countries. When pupils of Ojodu Primary School I, mounted the podium, they were no different from their peers from the private schools. They spoke fluently, without making grammatical errors. And it was not that only one pupil spoke; they all took turns to educate the audience about Kenya, its government, people, their dressing, culture and languages. Someone seated close to me had to remark, “Are you sure those children are from a public school?” I would have reacted the same way if I had not visited their school earlier. I am sure some parents in the audience felt that they must be spending huge sums in private schools only for pupils from public schools to be able to achieve the same thing. Ojodu Primary School I has done for its pupils what should be the norm but has become an exception in present-day Nigeria. An average pupil in the school can communicate in English, the language of instruction in our schools. With many public primary and even secondary school pupils unable to do this, the governments of various states need to take a closer look at the quality of education service delivery and whether learners are achieving the stipulated outcomes for whatever level they are in. As I have noted many times, it is not enough for governments to tell us about the billions spent building classrooms, rehabilitating structures, purchasing equipment, recruiting and training teachers; it is also their business to ensure that their investments are yielding the desired returns in form of pupils achieving the learning outcomes for their levels. Many are not, which means it is not time for our governments to boast but to work at genuinely improving our schools.

Belo-Osagie

•Hon. Suleiman (second right), Dr Njoku (second left) and Nollywood Actor Kanayo O. Kanayo with pupils and other participants at the forum.

NECO seeks support to reposition

OW that the National Examinations Council (NECO) is not among the parastatals to be scrapped by the Federal Government, stakeholders have recommended ways to reposition the body for greater effectiveness. Participants who attended a stakeholders' forum organised by the council for the Southwest zone in Lagos last Friday suggested that leveraging on technology to ease the conduct of examinations; improving the integrity of the examinations by checking malpractices; involving stakeholders in its quality drive as some of the steps that would help transform the agency into a world-class examining body. Leading the call for transformation was Chairman, House Committee on Education, Hon Aminu Suleiman who said the Council should aim to add value in line with the theme of the forum tagged: "Repositioning NECO for more effective service delivery: A collective task." He said: "NECO is a national pride of the country with huge nationalistic benefits. I sincerely believe that efforts should be intensified by the government and other stakeholders to reposition the council for optimum performance, because the issue is really not in the number but the value addition and service delivery." Chairman of NECO's Governing Board, Dr Paddy Njoku, said the forum was organised to seek ways to inject vigour into the council's activities. He listed some of the council's challenges with the hope of finding solutions to them.

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

"I am gladdened by this unique opportunity to set the ball rolling in our collective quest towards generating solutions to the challenges afflicting the maximum goal attainment of our council. The challenges include: logistic and examination materials supply chain; ICT development; infrastructure and facilities management; human capacity; exam malpractices and fraud; and capital funding," he said. Tackling the theme in his address, the lead paper presenter and ViceChancellor, Sokoto State University, Prof Nuhu Yaqub, praised NECO's achievement since inception, especially in the timely release of results and adequate monitoring of the examination. However, he urged the council to be at the vanguard of moral rejuvenation of the society so as to restore the integrity of public examinations. "If we do not tackle this most fundamental issue, we may install the best technology to handle our examinations, it is we the morally bankrupt people that will turn around at the next corner to compromise the ideals we set out to achieve," he said. Discussing the topic further, Prof Pai Obanya said when examinations are regarded as a part of the process to determine how much students have learnt, what knowledge gaps they have and how they can be addressed through targeted expenditure and responsive pedagogy, and not just for certification, then passing will not be

a do-or-die affair. "Exams must die the way we see them in Nigeria. Exam the way it should be is to enrich your system for better performance. It should stimulate you enrich your curriculum, respond to the individual needs of learners, and help target expenditure to areas of needs," he said. Another speaker, Dr Chigbo Okolie, recommended that NECO improves its ICT infrastructure to enable it deploy exam questions online rather than distribute hard copy materials from place to place. He added that NECO should explore ways of gaining the loyalty of Nigerian families, perhaps by introducing awards for the best candidates in its Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE), instituting clubs for best candidates from each state and giving scholarships to the best in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) that is written by JSS3 pupils for their senior secondary education. "NECO needs to do something new, something populist to attract the attention of families. For instance, the council could invite the best candidates to the NECO headquarters in Minna as part of the prize for excelling in the examination," he said. Other participants that made contributions at the event included representatives of the National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), All Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), representatives of state ministries of education, and teachers and pupils of select secondary schools.

NGO trains pupils

HE Youths Rescue and Care Initiative (YORCI), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has started the training of about 2,000 students of Eyinni High School, Ibadan on goal-getting skills The two-day workshop with the theme: New term, better me, is being sponsored by First Registrars Plc. YORCI Executive Director, Mrs Bisilola Asenuga said it is important to groom children from the early stage on the need to have a target in life and develop skills to have a brighter future. She lamented that many pupils at the tertiary level have made wrong choices of courses as a result of poor planning or defective background. Asenuga said: “Goal setting is not passive, not wishing for something, but it is effective for all walks of life, all areas of life, ages and for all so-

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

cial-economical groups. When you set a goal, it enables you to achieve success, self confidence and better understand the road blocks or problems that you may encounter. “Principles on how students can reach their goals include: having strong desire, writing down and setting priorities for them, planning, identifying the benefits, listing the skills and knowledge required, re-adjusting when necessary and celebrating success at every stage.” According to her, the NGO has been visiting secondary schools to give thought-provoking lectures on how students can achieve success in life by setting their goals. She appealed to parents and guardians to serve as machinery for their children in setting their goal

for a brighter future. Principal of the school, Mr Gboyega Adeosun, frowned on the imposition of specific subjects of study on students by their parents, advocating that students should have the freedom of choosing their subjects based on their abilities. He said: “The government should also endeavour to equip the libraries so that the students can read widely and choose freely any subject of study that suits them most.” It’s very sad that most of the public school libraries are bad and it is affecting the future of our students.” Explaining what she profited from the exercise, one of the students, Adebola Babatunde, said goal setting techniques have been planted deep in his life. Babatunde promised to work towards becoming successful.

‘However, that was not the case at Ojodu Primary School I two weeks ago. When I requested that the Head Teacher, Mr Adebowale Adaranijo, get me a pupil, he entered a class and said: “Who would like to talk about what happened here today?” Many pupils offered to but it was Titilayo Oyebanji, in Primary Six, who came out to speak with me’

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS •Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (middle), Leader of Niger Delta delegation, Mr Joseph Evah and members of the delegation during their visit to Tinubu to console him on the death of his mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji in Lagos.

•Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Prince Gbolahan Lawal (middle) addressing a news conference on the celebration of this year’s International Day of Cooperatives in Ikeja. With him are Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olajide Basorun (left) and President, Lagos State Cooperative Federation, Mr Aiyeola Yomi.

•Conference of Local Governments and Local Council Development Area, Lagos (CONFERENCE 57) Chairman, Akeem Sulaiman (left) presenting the keys to a 18-seater bus to the Director of Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for Persons Living with disabilities, Owutu, Ikorodu, Mrs Modupe Bello to mark the 50th birthday of Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. With them are Chairman, Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Bolaji Muse-Ariyoh and CONFERENCE 57 Secretary-General Hon Hakeem Bamgbola (right).

•From right: Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Rural Development, Hon Babatunde Hunpe; Chairman of Esan Ogbogun Community Development Association (CDA), Olusegun Fehintola; Commissioner for Rural Affairs and Development, Hon Cornelius Ojelabi, CDA Chairman John Olaleye, when the state handed over transformers to some communities. PHOTO: NNEKA NWANERI

•From left: Mr Mike Essien Board member, Books for Africa), Dr Patrick J. Plonski, Executive Director, Ijeoma Arguba (Centre Manager, British Council, Port Harcourt and Dr Tex Wariboko (Special Adviser to Rivers State Governor and Coordinator NEPAD, Rivers State at the kick off of the one million books project initiative by NEPAD, Rivers State.

•Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire flanked by a member of the House of Representatives (Ikorodu 1), Sanni Agunbiade (left) and Oba of Ikorodu’s wife, Olori Adeyinka, Oyefusi at the graduation of students of short term skill acquisition programme in Lagos.

•Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule (middle) cutting the tape to inaugurate blocks of classrooms at Anthony Model Primary School built by Simon Lions Club of Anthony Village, Lagos. With her are members of the club

•Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Mike Omeri (left) receiving books donated by the President, Academy for Entrepreneural Studies (AES) Excellence Club, Mr Ausbeth Ajagu at a ceremony in Lagos...on Tuesday. With them is the Academy’s Registrar, Mr Paul Umukoro

•Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (middle) and members of the Bola Tinubu Forum during their visit to commiserate with him on the death of his mother Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji in Lagos.

POLITICS

THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

All Progressives Party (APC) chieftain Senator Annie Okonkwo spoke with PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU on the prospects of the proposed party and his governorship ambition in Anambra State.

‘Igbo ‘ll bid for Presidency under APC’

OU are one of the promoters of the APC and the party is seen more as Yoruba/Hausa party. Don’t you think that the Igbos would be marginalised in the new party? No, that perception is wrong because the APC is not a Hausa/ Yoruba party. We, the people of the Southeast observed that the only political party where an Igbo man will have a say and ample opportunity to actualise his presidential ambition is in the APC. Don’t forget that I am the President of C21, a socio-political group that is seriously advocating for the emergence of a President of Igbo extraction. With the signatory of the Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha and with the support of C21, APC has become a recognised national party and every position will be shared equally. The focus of the APC is internal democracy and I am very optimistic that an Igbo man will emerge as the presidential candidate of APC in 2015. Are you sure APC will give Nigerians an alternative? Yes. If we want this country to survive, we need a party like APC that would compete with PDP, a party that will give people the opportunity to have an option, instead of creating doubt in people that after voting for their choice of party, the party will not win. Majority of us that left the PDP were not satisfied with their conduct. We would have decamped long ago, but there was no alternative platform and when APC was introduced, we decamped immediately. APC was formed in order to rescue the people and the country from PDP’s undemocratic way of leadership. No party can rule forever, we need to try the APC since PDP has failed. They don’t think of the welfare of the people, they don’t think about how to provide security for the people. All they are thinking about is themselves. Are you not worried that the party has not been registered till now? I am not worried at all because the process is on and it will be registered. We are not a new political party; it is the coalition of political parties. This is the first time that parties are merging in this country. What we had in the past was alliance. We are not worried about the registration because it will soon be registered. How do you describe the state of affairs in the country today? Personally, I believe that today, there are apprehensions in the country- the issue of insecurity, the crisis in Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the controversial election of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) where they could not choose the chairman of their forum, the increasing unemployment in the country and many other issues. I personally, believe we must start doing something about it. I commend the President on his decision to declare emergency in some states in the North. Since he declared state of emergency, there has not been any serious attack by the Boko Haram group. Before now, it was bombing here and there. I am appealing to all Nigerians to embrace peace, but the Federal Government must be very careful to be able to arrest the situation. The Federal Government should scout and fish out those causing the problem. I believe that would end this insurgence. We have many security agencies; they should investigate properly to fish out the kingpins. It is a worrisome situation which has affected everybody one way or the other. We must all support the government in power, irrespective of our political parties because, if anything happens to Nigeria, it has happened to all of us. We pray we don’t experience another civil war because there is no country that survives two civil wars. It is necessary that we do everything possible to maintain peace to enable us live together as one Nigeria. Is insecurity in the country associated with 2015 election? I don’t think so because the problem has been there since 2009. In 2011, the group (Boko Haram) carried out various attacks but unfortunately, it became serious this period. The Federal Government has been ignoring it without knowing the magnitude. They were taken for granted not knowing that it will result to this. For me, I believe that the government did not do what they were supposed to do. But now that they have realised that and intro-

•Okonkwo

‘We cannot be fooled twice, we have given the support, Southeast has suffered for this government and we cannot boast of anything that will give us hope or convince us that the Southeast will be taken care off. If they have not done anything before now the probability of trusting them that they will do something is very slim and dangerous’ duced measures to arrest the situation, I don’t think it will affect the 2015 election. What are the achievements of President Goodluck Jonathan, in terms of infrastructural development? As far as we are concerned, we are still looking forward to it. As at now, we have not seen tangible things that we can point at and beat our chest that this is what he has offered the Southeast, starting from the dredging of the Niger, nothing has happened, construction of second Niger bridge, the roads that leads to the East or that are in the East are still in terrible condition. The other time they came in to say they have commissioned the airport, nothing is there, and we are now going into the final stage of the race. I do not see anybody that will come and tell me that the promises have been kept. And like they will say in a proverb ‘’first fool, is not a fool but the second one is proper foolish’’. We cannot be fooled twice, we have given the support, Southeast has suffered for this government and we cannot boast of anything that will give us hope or convince us that the Southeast will be taken care off. If they have not done anything before now the probability of trusting them that they will do something is very slim and dangerous. We cannot be asked to continue with this government; yes Ndigbo

as far as I am concerned will not accept promises that have not been kept. So, we are looking for an alternative that we are sure will keep promises. How do you see the unfolding political developments in Anambra ahead of next year’s election? Things have started happening in Anambra because the election is six months down the line. Our concern is to ensure that that APC captures the state. Anambra election will be the first test for the APC. Presently in Anambra, the two political parties, PDP and APGA that can compete with APC are having serious crises and the election is just six months to go. With the way things are going in the state, it will be very difficult for any party to beat the APC. APC will win the election. Having made public your governorship ambition at different fora, are you sure that you will emerge APC’s candidate? I am optimistic. APC believes in internal democracy and not the imposition of candidates on the people. It is the people that will decide their candidate, but if they think I am not the best candidate to carry the flag, anybody the people elect, I will support the person. What is the uniqueness of your candidacy? I am not a neophyte in politics. I have been in Anambra politics for over 20 years and the people know me too well. I have been able to positively affect the lives in the state. If you look at most of the aspirants in Anambra State, you will see that none of them have done half of what I have put on ground. Because of my achievements, recently, some people without my knowledge went and wrote 100 reasons they want me to become the governor. The People of Anambra North Senatorial District are seriously agitating for power shift. Does it bother you? They have been saying it, since the creation of Anambra. There was never a time that the people of Anambra State sat down and discussed about zoning. In all the elections that took place in Anambra, the North, the South and the Central participated. So I don’t see the reason they will come out now and be saying that it is their turn. If they present a credible candidate, no party will deny them of the mandate, but if it is leaving the election open for the people from the North, it is not possible and it has never been done anywhere. The present governor is from the Central, but I don’t see anything special that the people of the district have benefited. So, the most important thing is to elect somebody that has the people at heart. The general impression in Anambra is that the state has a lot of money bags do you think you have the financial strength to compete with them? I don’t believe in money politics. I know that money is needed for publicity, logistics and many other things, but it is not how much you throw around that can make you a governor. Anambra is a very wise state and they know everybody. Anambra is not a state you can buy with money and even, if you are able to buy, you cannot buy everybody. You can be rest assured that the people will take your money and will not vote for you. How would you react to the controversy trailing the NGF election? I am disappointed. I don’t believe that governors can do what they are doing. There are certain things we are expecting from the governors. If you are defeated in an election, you congratulate your opponent and not to make it a do or die affair. Even, if somebody was endorsed prior to the election, the endorsement does not mean you must win. That a group endorsed somebody before an election does not mean that the person has won the election. From what the governors said, there was an endorsement and there was an election. For example, during the election of the principle officers of the House of Representatives, PDP endorsed Hon Mulikat Akande before the election but the majority of the House voted for Hon Tambuwal and today he is the Speaker.

‘Why crisis persists in Ogun PDP’

• Tukur

HE Chairman of the Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adebayo Dayo, has said that the chapter is enveloped in crisis because certain party elders have refused to embrace change. He lamented that the party members instigated by these elders have capitalised on their negative disposition to the State Executive Committee of the party to foment trouble . Dayo, an engineer, gave the party’s situation report at the meeting of the Southwest PDP Stakeholders chaired by the Zonal Caretaker Committee Chairman, Chief Isola Filani, in Lagos. At the meet-

By Emmanuel Oladesu, Group Political Editor

ing, which held at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, the representatives of the PDP chapters in the six states also spoke on the crises rocking the party. In Ogun State, the group loyal to former President Olusegun Obasanjo has not fully reconciled with the Dayo leadership, following the directive of the national chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, that Senator Dipo Odujinrin was not the duly elected state chairman. Members of the group shunned the Lagos meeting. Dayo explained that certain elders, who have refused to face the

reality of change and forget the past are fueling the protracted crises in the Ogun PDP. He stressed: “We will cooperate with our leaders in the six states to succeed. We have problems in the six states. If we don’t bury our differences, there will be problem. “We are fighting to be in government. Unfortunately, we have some elders who do not believe in change. Change has come. We must bury our hatchet and work together. Southwest PDP will continue to be marginalised, unless it wins elections”. Giving report on the state of the party in Ekiti State, a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Dayo Okondo, said that only a con-

sensus governorship candidate can win power in 2014. He promised that the chapter will present a formidable candidate for the poll. A PDP elder from Osun State, Senator Oluwole Alabi, said: “We will put our house in order and present able and acceptable governorship candidate for the next election”. Former Works Minister Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, who spoke for the Lagos PDP, said: “Disunity is our problem. Abandonment of the leadership is the problem. The leadership has been marginalised. Things are not too weel in the Lagos PDP. It is still rocky. Some leaders are still outside. They have grudges against their exclusion from the party. They must be brought back to be part of the party structure”,

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NATURAL HEALTH THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

CLINIC DAY

Questions

New drug to check deformities in babies Mrs Temitayo Alegbejo, Manager of a drug reporting firm, Benjamin Michaels, answers the first question; Dr Segun Fahuwa, aka Mister Guarantee, handles the second.

T is important to take perinatal formula by mothers and mothers to be. Hence your clinician recommending one to you. The reasons for taking perinatal formula include preparing the body with vitamins, micronutrients and trace elements for conception; prevention of birth defects (congenital diseases ) in the new born babies. A congenital disorder, or congenital disease, is a condition existing at birth and often before birth, or that develops during the first month of life (neonatal disease), regardless of causation. Of these diseases, those characterised by structural deformities are termed “congenital anomalies” and involve defects in or damage to a developing fetus. A congenital disorder may be the result of genetic abnormalities, the intrauterine (uterus) environment, errors of morphogenesis, infection, or a chromosomal abnormality. The outcome of the disorder will depend on complex interactions between the pre-natal deficit and the post-natal environment. The mother’s (and possibly the father’s) diet, vitamin intake, and glucose levels prior to ovulation and conception have long-term effects on fetal growth and adolescent and adult disease. Congenital disorders vary widely in causation and abnormalities. Any substance that causes birth defects is known as a teratogen. A genetic disorder in babies can cause

diseases like sickle cell disease, Spina bifida, Down syndrome, Hydocephalus, hole in the heart etc. The diseases of heart and kidney also occur due to genetic disorders. In recent years, modern medicine has developed increasingly sophisticated tests to screen unborn babies for physical and genetic abnormalities. These amazing technological advances have provided information not previously accessible to past generations. However, their availability has also created agonising dilemmas for modern parents, especially if they are confronted with results that indicate their baby may not be perfectly healthy. Genetic testing is always optional, but many parents want the tests performed, or request them. However, caregivers do not always fully explain what the tests are capable of revealing and the possible outcomes are not always clearly spelt out. One aspect that is not always comprehended by parents is that if the test results indicate the baby has an abnormality, there are usually no cures or treatments. Some physical defects (such as a cleft lip/palate) are treatable, but only once the baby is born. In most cases, the only options for parents are to: Continue with the pregnancy with the knowledge that their baby has a genetic disorder or abnormality, but possibly having the opportunity to

• Matruelle

•Mrs. Alegbejo

prepare mentally, emotionally and practically for this; or terminate (or abort) the pregnancy. Parents faced with these issues generally find any decision devastating beyond words. Trying to decide whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy under these circumstances is overwhelming, amidst a flood of emotions. Pharmaton Matruelle, a Swiss product, is now in Nigeria. An expectant mother, Theresa Arike (not real name) has used same just like many other women. The product is for women planning to have a baby, pregnant or already nursing babies. With its balanced formula, mothers and babies can now be sure of getting exactly the right micronutrients, in the right concentrations and at the right times to cover their changing needs. Dosage: Taken daily, in combination with varied, nutritionally well-balanced meals, Pharmaton®

Matruelle® provides more than just the correct dosages of Folate and iron that expecting-mothers need: Pharmaton® Matruelle® also supplies all the essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements, as well as the important Omega-3 fatty acids, needed during and after a pregnancy through a specially tailored scientific formula. In this way, Pharmaton® Matruelle® ensures that correct levels of micronutrients always remain available, thereby assuring the health of both mothers and their infants. Pharmaton® Matruelle contains Docosahexaenoic acide (DHA). And its benefits include but not limited to: Improving birth weights of babies; Important for neurological development in foetus and infants; Improves vision; reduces inflammation and prevents inflammatory diseases like heart disease and arthritis; helps

1 Based on your recent publication on Pharmaton® Matruelle, I need more information on it, now that I am attempting pregnancy and the clinician told me to get the product. Folasade Omojuwa, 28-year-old teacher, Ibadan, Oyo State. (2) I have Rheumatoid arthritis, what can I do to manage it? Chukwudi Muanya, 62-year-old retired Security man, Ajangbadi, Lagos. in the prevention of ischemic CVD; improves cholesterol profile and improves skin health by alleviating symptoms related to skin disorders. It also improves menstrual health by reducing the pain associated with premenstrual tension and dysmenorrhoea. Helps to prevent cancers especially, colon, prostate and breast cancers. Deficiencies in Omega-3/DHA suffer from depression, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia and eating disorders. May decrease the incidence of pre-eclampsia. And improves the level of immunomodulatory factors in the breast milk with resultant protective mucosal immune function ( IgA and cytokines). It has NAFDAC registration number:A4-8267.

'Rheumatoid arthritis can be managed'

HEUMATOID arthritis is a debilitating disease that damages the body's connective tissues, especially the synovial joints. Commonly referred to as RA, it is a major cause of disability in old people. RA is one of many autoimmune diseases caused by the immune system attacking the body's own tissues. RA affects women three times more than men. To understand the condition, you must know the symptoms, causes and treatments for rheumatoid arthritis. Causes: The cause of RA remains unknown, but the most common theory is that the immune system suddenly malfunctions, turning on itself and attacking the body's own tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis also tends to run in families, meaning one’s risk of developing RA increases if a close relative has the disease or another autoimmune condition. In fact, some researchers believe that genes associated with the immune system may trigger RA. Environmental factors may also play a role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. One other popular theory is that there is a connection between infectious microorganisms, such as bacteria and vi-

‘The most common complication of rheumatoid arthritis is damage to the joints and surrounding tissues. With treatment, this damage can be controlled in most cases ... I have some preparations that I use in treating the condition. They are not available in the market because they are clients based/prepared’ ruses, and the development of RA. Because 70 per cent of people with RA are women, scientists are concerned that female hormones may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases like RA. Symptoms: Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis today. The disease affects the small joints of the body, including the wrists, fingers, elbows, shoulders and feet more. Your joints may ache and feel warm to touch due to chronic inflammation. It also causes fatigue that cannot be relieved by rest, which is often the first sign of rheumatoid

arthritis. As inflammation is systemic, you may also have fever, loss of appetite and blood disorders. In addition, the chronic inflammation caused by RA is often damaging to the joints and connective tissues, resulting in joint deformities, decreased range of motion and disability. Some people with RA also have nodules on the joints that develop as a result of chronic inflammation. In some severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis may attack the heart, lungs and kidneys. Treatments: At one time, physicians used a "wait and see" approach

to treat rheumatoid arthritis, but we now know that treating the disease early on is essential for preventing joint damage and disability. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used as a first-line treatment for RA and help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. Because the immune system is involved in the symptoms of RA, phyto-therapy medications that suppress the immune system are very effective at slowing down the disease and reducing chronic inflammation. I have some preparations that I use in treating the condition. They are not available in the market because they are clients based/prepared. Complications: The most common complication of rheumatoid arthritis is damage to the joints and surrounding tissues. With treatment, this damage can be controlled in most cases. RA also increases your risk for heart attack and stroke due to hardening of the arteries. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause inflammation of the sac that encloses your heart. In addition, people with RA sometimes experience shortness of breath due to inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Because RA causes swelling

• Dr Fahuwa and inflammation in the joints, the nerves and surrounding tissues can also be affected. However, complications can be minimized with early diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect that you or a loved one has RA, talk to your practitioner who specialises in joint disorders.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NATURAL HEALTH •Many people have a bad physical posture and, so, do not sit, stand or walk straight, and that may be the reason they suffer from many aches and pains and degenerative diseases.

Lordosis, head, leg and hand, neck, back and waist pain… and The Law of Balance (2) “With your back against a wall, stand with your head, heels, shoulders and the calves of your legs are touching the walls, hands hanging by your sides. Flatten the hollow of your back by pressing the buttock down against the wall. There should be hardly any space between the wall and the small of your back. If the gap is more than the thickness of your hand as you place it between your back and the wall, you have bad posture…”

THER than pains in many parts of the body, espe cially in the lower back and waist, what are the early warnings signals that muscle and skeletal imbalances have set in, and that hyperlordosis may be on the way? One elderly man telephoned me last week, after reading the first part of this series, to say he was experiencing severe back pain which his doctor deduced from a scan report to be caused by “loss of lordosis” brought on by muscle spasms. A muscle spasm is like a “muscle pull” or cramps. It occurs in the breathing problems of asthma. It is a reason a lab attendant may find it difficult, if not impossible, to pull blood from a trembling or tremulous vein. Vomiting and diarrhea, like palpitation of the heart and urine leakage, often, if not always, have roots in muscle spasms. While magnesium supplements often relieve muscle spasms, the roles of such other factors as toxin irritation, oxygen deficiency and microbial disturbances cannot be overlooked. Last week, I mentioned bad posture as one of the major causes of muscle misalignment, imbalances and pain. In his FIT FOR ANYTHING, the book I said helped me address neck pain in the 1990s, about 20 years after I experienced it. Kekir Sidhwa, N.D., D.O., says: “All movements in our body are accomplished by muscles. The latter have two functions Contraction and relaxation. Contraction is of two kinds… Phasic and tonic. The former is often voluntary, and is usually of brief duration, and it results in motion in movable parts; the latter is normally a sustained contraction, is reflex in nature and usually causes no motion. The term ‘muscle tone’ refers to this reflex contraction and its function of maintaining position or posture. It implies a muscle in readiness fraction. Good muscle tone, with correct habits of sitting, walking, standing etc, is necessary to maintain normal posture and efficient working of the parts involved. Faulty habits like stooping can lead to round shoulders, in spite of good muscle tone, if the opposing set of muscles is not kept in good condition by exercises. If no exercise is taken for some time muscles quickly lose, tone and quality and become soft and flabby. A similar degeneration takes place throughout the body. Even, again and tissue of the body is involved in both the effort and the result when exercise is performed. Posture Apart from the self-test check for good posture which Dr. Sidhwa suggested at the beginning of this column, he offers more as will soon be shown. Following his thoughts, I, too, sometimes observed the gait of people as they walk. I find that some people walk with their arms swinging outwards from their side, with the result that they may throw them at you if you are too close by. Some people swing one arm father than the other; some clench their fists while some do not. Dr. Sidhwa says tense muscles and imbalance can be detected “by observing how a person walks” He asks: “Are you pigeon –holed? Do your legs or toes thrust outwards at each step? Do you limp? Do your hips swing back and forth with each step? When you stand erect, are your shoulders even? Is one shoulder higher than the other.? Are you knock-kneed or bow-legged? Have someone obscene you as you stand erect and with your back to him. Is your back straight or is there a curve to one side or the other? Are your buttocks in level? Are the two buttocks symmetrical? Is one hip higher than the other? (Now bend over and try to touch your toes. If you have muscle imbalance, you will not be able to. Many will not even get their fingers much lower than their knees if they are really stiff” Dr. Arthur Mitchele’s book, ILLIOPSOAS, should be of interest to people who have problems with their backs, hips and pelvic regions. Dr. Sidhwa cites Dr Mitchele’s work in his own book, FIT FOR ANYTHING. At that time Dr. Mitchele was professor of orthopaedic surgery at New York Medical College. Dr. Mitchele says in ILIOPSOAS that this muscle is involved in the functioning of muscles in the back, hips and the pelvis. Dr. Sidhwa says this muscle goes from the back through the abdomen and over the brim of the pelvis. In the inner part of the upper thigh. Dr. Mitchele says many problems can become co-passengers in a train if the illiopsoas muscle becomes short. Dr. Sidhwa, reviewing ILIOPSOAS, lists these possible problems as follows. In his words, these include…. • Tripping or stumbling in children

• Tilting of the pelvis to one side • Distortion of the hip in newborn infants, often called congenital dislocation of the hip • Hip pain and limping, ospeually in young boys • Pain in the spine, leg, knees, and feet in children often called “growing pains” • Pain in the chest • Weakening and subsequent fracture of the thigh bone in older persons, often mistakenly blamed on a fall. • Fractures or muscle rupture occurring in army recruits, skiers, and basketball players • Arthrosis of the knees • Arthrosis of the hip • Circulation problems • Poor circulation of internal organs • Fracture of the spine or degenerative disorders of the spine • Pain, tenderness or stiffness of the spine • Herniated (invertebra) disc It is in this light, and many more, that Dr. Sidhwa, an exercises man, addresses kyphosis (hunchback), Lordosis (excessive curvature of the lower spine) and flat feet (suffered in particular by overweight people) Dr. Sidhwa says muscle imbalances worsen health conditions such as asthma, and offers many exercises which strengthen and tone tired muscles with a view to normalising their functioning and overcome the ailments caused by their loss of tone. Lordosis HIS condition is better understood with background knowledge of the spinal column, its structure and functions. It comprises 26 bones all the way from its starting point from below the medulla oblongata portion of the brain at the base of the skull to the base of the pelvis. This structure houses a tubular bundle of nerves and cells which is a continuation of the brain and which, together with the brain, form the Central Nervous System (CNS). Each of the 26 bones is cushioned by an hydraulic disc which absorbs, like shock absorbers of a motor vehicle, the pressure on the spinal column of running, jumping, standing, or falling. From near the base of each of the 26 vertebrate bones, nerves jot out like telephone wires to different parts of the body. The spinal column is divided into several sections i.e cervical (neck) thoracic (chest), lumbar (lower back) and Sacral. Each bone has a first name and a surname written together. For example, there are seven cervical (neck), bones named C1, C2, C3 etc. Each bone has passages for nerves branching from the spinal cord to various parts of the body, such as the eyes, for example. If a bone misaligns or a disc herniated and disturbs a nerve, nerve flow to an organ, say to the eye, is impaired and causes weakness or degeneration. This suggests that anyone who suffers from a chronic ailment needs to have the relevant bones checked by his doctor or by an osteopath. Spinal Curves Apart from housing the spinal cord, the spinal column transfers the weight of the head and the neck to the pelvic bones. Through a flexible and gentle transmission helped by such curves as are found in the neck and lower back, the spinal cord takes the pressure of the body’s mass to the pelvic girdle which distributes it to the leg bones for the heels and the toes to earth it. Poor diet, bad lifestyle, lack of exercise, diseases and poor posture, among other factors, help to destabilise this structure as shown in the diagrams, by exaggerating the curves. Exaggerated spinal curves cause muscle imbalances throughout the body, with disturbances in the natural systemic chemistry and flow of some other factors which include: • Sitting for too long • Excess belly fat • Sleeping on soft mattresses • Protruding abdomen • Osteoporosis

• Ankylosing spondilitis • Tuberculosis Sitting for too long makes the hip flexor muscles contract and drag the pelvis forward. Excess belly fat does the same. The situation is worsened by weak abdominal muscles. The natural solution is to get rid of excess belly fat by improving fat digestion and burning, and enhancing waste evacuation. It is important to support the diet with liver herbs, digestive enzymes systemic enzymes and fiber. I enjoy walking around for a while after sitting for a while. This also obeys The Law of Balance in everything. Soft mattresses offer no resistance to the weight of the body. They sink in, and the body’s shape fills the cavity they create. That means the nerves and muscles which fit the body into this cavity are working on, generating wastes and pulling the counter pole muscles along. That’s why many people wake up from a long night sleep without feeling refreshed… their nerves and muscles did not relax but worked all through the night sleep! Hard bed surfaces and orthopedic mattresses are better. About 15 years ago, I paid Vono Ngeria ltd in Lagos an extra cost to make me orthopedic mattresses that were 25 Percent harder than their standard orthopedics. So, today, anywhere I am, however bullied I may have been by the hurly burly life in Lagos mega city, I am happy to return home, and fling my body into a good, relaxing bed. Osteoporosis is all about calcium getting out of the spine and leaving it weak and more malleable. If the diet forms too much acid, this may occur through natural calcium leaching from the bones to neutralise the acids and save the blood. Ankylosing spondylosis is better understood with the picture of a burning candle in mind. Soft wax forms on the side of the candle as it burns. Similarly, calcium may deposit on the sides of the spinal bones if it cannot be deposited into these bones. Soon, the wrongly deposited calcium hardens joining or calcificaties bones and disc, making the spine inflexible that is rigid and unbendable. If the nerve roots are involved, pain occurs and nerve flow to organs may result which may cause a weakening of these organs. And as weakened organs cannot ably protect themselves against germs or other disturbing factor, disease may arise. Tuberculosis of the spine is common. But many people are familiar with tuberculosis of the lungs. Helping the spine HE first step in getting a sick spine back into shape and health involves adoption of the right posture and exercises. I do not hesitate to recommend Dr. Kekir Sidwas FIT FOR ANYTHING for anyone who can take the trouble to find this 1964 book (ISBN 7225-O-7225-0244-3). It is a rich store of exercises for any imaginable muscle imbalance disturbance. It is a reminder of the need to obey The Law of Balance. When it comes to useful plant or natural medicines, we can trust Mother Nature for an inexhaustible treasure trove. We only need to know what we want what for. In hyperlodosis, we wish to stop pain, make the spine more flexible so we can resume our locomotion with more ease. We cannot touch on everything possible. But here are a few indicators. • Amazon CNS Support, which, unfortunately, is becoming scarce in Nigeria, eases pain in the Central Nervous System (CNS) • Biochemic cell salts Disc recovery is a proprietary beacon of hope for any-one with spinal column disease or deformity attributable to not only disc degeneration but ligament, tendon, muscle and surrounding tissues as well. It is a proprietary blend of 14 spinal column nutrients designed for the support and repair of spinal discs and the surrounding connective tissue. Among these nutrients are cartilage, apple pectin, equisetum, arvense (horsetail, one of the richest plant sources of silica, which aids calcium deposition in the bones, hardens them and promotes connective tissue health, Vitamin D3, Vitamins C, B6, Manganese etc. Amino acids food supplement are important. There are about 600 muscles in the body. The spinal column is held together by muscles which are connected to the spinal bones in a matrix of ligaments and tendons. Exercise and work cause soreness, injury, tear, inflammation, disc hernia, bone fracture and allied problems. High quality proteins in the form of amino acids are required for repairs and cell regeneration. Animals flesh and milk and plants are sources of proteins. These days, animal flesh is “bad mouthed”. Animal milk provides case in which prevent muscle breakdown but it is difficult to digest. Whey protein, on the other hand, is easier to digest and absorb, and it helps to build muscles. These days, the trend is to supplement the diet with broad-spectrum, free form amino acids. They come in softgel or liquid and contain all amino acids, including the nine essential amino acids, so called because the body cannot make them and must obtain them in the diet. Unfortunately, not all plant foods have the broad spectrum. Not even all the good, old beans. Soy bean is the only exception. Increasingly, there is a tend among orthopedicts and other doctors to use Branched Chain Amino Acids BCAAs, especially for post-surgical regeneration of tissue BCAAs are said to comprise about one third of skeletal muscle, and are made up of leucine, oleucine and valine. • To be continued next week

e-mail: femi.kusa@yahoo.com or olufemikusa@yahoo.com Tel: 08034004247, 07025077303

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS

Budget row: Reps kick against envelope system

•From left: Senior Manager and Technical Adviser to the Managing Director, Nigerian Expert Processing Zone (NEPZA) Mr Richard Obianu; Manaaging Director, NEPZA, Mr. Olugbenga Kuye, and GM Admin and Human Resources,Mr Bitrus Dawuk, during a media chat yesterday in Abuja

CBN commences registration of agent banks

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday said it had commenced registration of agent banks to drive its financial inclusion strategy. Mr Paul Eluhaiwe, CBN Director of Development Finance, disclosed this at 18th seminar for finance correspondents and business editors in Umuahia, Abia. The theme of the seminar is “Financial Inclusion Initiatives in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Prospects”. Eluhaiwe said that more agent banks would be registered before the end of the year. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that agent banking was introduced in the country last year as a measure to further promote the financial inclusion strategy of the apex bank. Eluhaiwe said that the country was still lagging behind Kenya and South Africa in the financial inclusion strategy. He stressed the importance of financial inclusion, saying that the financial inclusion policy was aimed at reducing the percentage

of financially excluded in the country. Eluhaiwe said that the ratio of financial excluded dropped from 46.3 per cent in 2010 to 39.7 in 2012 with the optimism to reduce it to 20 per cent by the year 2020. He said that the SouthWest geo-political zone of the country now had the lowest exclusion rate of 24.8 per cent, a 25 per cent improvement over 33.1 per cent in 2012. “The North-Western part of the country, however, recorded the highest level of financial exclusion and the lowest improvement between 2010 and 2012. “At 63.8 per cent exclusion rate, the zone has recorded a 6.3 per cent improvement over the 2010 figure of 68.1 per cent. “Financial exclusion has also reduced in the NorthEast, North-Central,SouthEast and South-South by 12.9, 26.7, 19.8 and 17.3 per cent to 59.5, 32.4, 25.6 and 30.1 per cent, respectively. The director said that the CBN expected that about 60 per cent of funds in cir-

Oil communities seek direct derivation fund payment

IL producing communities are clamouring for the direct payment of 13 per cent derivation to their communities. To this end, they have written a letter to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), asking for the setting up of a National Derivation Committee. The letter signed by 14 leaders of the communities from Rivers State is proposing the setting up of state management committee for the funds so that it is received by the National Derivation Committee and disbursed to the states. According to the letter, “the National Derivation Committee will not award contracts but will supervise and monitor the use of the 13 per cent derivation fund on a constant basis in all the state management committees. The state management committees will execute the project and services for the oil and gas producing committees.” Besides, they want the chairman and members of the National Derivation

By Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor)

Committee to be appointed by Mr. President on the advice of the leaders of the oil and gas producing immunities of Nigeria including a member of RMAFC, while each state will select the chairman and members of the state management committee. The group stated that the oil and gas producing communities have instituted sanctions to be meted out to any erring or defaulting member of any of the committees. They said: “There would be enough checks and balances in the administrative committee system.” The letter was signed by Chief Opaks Harry, Chief Betterlands Daves, Chief Asimebo Fiyasiri, Chief Agiobu Fubara, Chief Seneri Asein and Chief Diepiriye Briggs. Others are Chief Okriye Quege, Chief Odiari Amachree, Chief Opune Macs, Hon. Osaka Dickabbi, Mr. Couplings Alasia, Mr. Fubara Amas, Mrs. Nimi Idoniboye and Mrs. Moudlyn Jaja.

culation would be captured in the financial system through the financial inclusion strategy.

•Seek roll-over of unspent capital expenditure

HE House of Representatives has described the envelope system of the nation’s budgetary preparation as inimical to the economic and technological growth of the country. The lawmakers opined that laziness and lack of creativity was responsible for the continual usage of the moribund system for the preparation of the annual budget. In addition, the bill, sponsored by Bamidele Faparusi (ACN, Ekitii) seeking to provide for a specific fund to support entrepreneurs wishing to commercialise research findings in the nation’s research institutions also successfully scaled reading.

From Victor Oluwasegun and DeleAnofi, Abuja

Similarly, the lawmakers supported the second reading of a bill for an Act to mandate and authorise rollover of all unspent or utilised capital expenditure of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA) in financial year to the next financial year under the same head of capital expenditure. Speaking on the need to discard the envelope system, sponsor of the bill, Beni Lar (PDP, Plateau) said the system had been responsible for the yearly dismal performance of the nation’s budgets.

Besides, the system is outdated as many countries have done away with it, she said, adding, “The current procedure involves the Budget Office of the Federation giving indicative expenditure ceilings considering the real demands in the respective sectors of the economy for which these funds are allocated”. Abubakar Momoh (ACN, Edo) said: “No wonder there has not been marked improvement in our yearly budgetary implementation. We need to invite experts that would fashion modern proactive system that would ensure that budget implementation translates into something positive for our people”.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 3- 07-13

Access Bank targets top three position

CCESS Bank Plc yesterday presented its five-year strategic growth plan with a target of being one of the three top banks in Nigeria and Africa’s most-respected bank. The lender also confirmed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had approved the appointment of its deputy managing director, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, as the substantive managing director upon the retirement of its managing director, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede by the end of this year. Speaking at the presentation of the 2013-2017 strategy at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Aig-Imoukhuede said the bank expects to have moved from its current fourth position to be one of the three leading banks in Nigeria by all indices as well as the most-respected African bank by the end of 2017. Citing the bank’s track records of meeting all targets of its previous two strategic growth plans since 2002, AigImoukhuede said he was confident the bank would achieve the targets in the current growth plan, expressing confidence in Wigwe, who will lead the next growth chapter of the bank. Imoukhuede noted that, Access Bank had used the past

•Herbert steps in as new MD By Taofik Salako

years to build up scale and strong position, which it would use to harness exciting opportunities that would leap-frog the bank further in the tier one league of banks and deliver better returns to investors. “We see more stimulating opportunities in Nigeria and other markets that we operate that will be turned into the game changers. We are excited about the prospects in our markets,” Aig-Imoukhuede said. He pointed out that Access Bank has the highest upside potential in terms of prospects for capital gains among the tier one banks, which should make it attractive to investors. The Access Bank boss noted that the smooth and seamless succession reflects the stability of the bank, which should give investors and customers confidence in the ability of the bank to sustain its growth plan. He extolled the sterling qualities of the managing director designate, pointing out that Wigwe has complete understanding of the bank’s strategies, culture, technology and competitive envi-

ronment, all of which makes him a perfect fit to lead the bank in its next transformation. Herbert said the bank has attained competitive scale that it can use to achieve its growth objectives but it may consider mergers and acquisitions if such become compelling and would add values to investors. He said the bank now has a balanced business portfolio of corporate and retail segments, adding that it would pay much attention to its retail banking through unique segmentation that meets the peculiarities of each segment of customers. According to him, Access Bank will grow its group customer base from its current level of some 6.0 million to some 15 to 20 million as it continues to invest in chosen markets across Africa. He said Access Bank sees enormous opportunities in Nigeria’s mega trends including the oil and gas sectors, power sector, telecommunication sectors and favourable demographics of the Nigerian population, which should handsomely compensate for any challenges in the system. He outlined that the brand promise of the bank going forward would be speed, service and security, which will ensure customers get excellent service within the shortest possible time and with utmost security.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 3- 07-13

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

MONEY LINK

CBN: Financially excluded adults drop to 39.7%

HE Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) policy on financial inclusion has reduced the adult exclusion rate in the financial system from 46.3 per cent in 2010 to 39.7 per cent. CBN Acting Director, Consumer & Financial Protection, Mrs Umma Aminu Dutse, disclosed this yesterday at the ongoing media Finance Correspondents & Business Editors seminar in Umuahia, Abia State. Aminu, who was represented by CBN Head, Consumer Education, Khadijah Kasim, said the overall strategy of the policy is to reduce adult exclusion rate from 46.3 per cent in 2010 to 20 per cent in 2020. He said such feat would support the empowerment of many Nigerians and promote economic growth. He said the CBN’s strategy defined clear objectives and identified specific targets across five primary

By Collins Nweze and Nduka Chiejeina

products and services bothering on payments, credits, savings, pensions and insurance. According to him, the priority is on transforming the Know Your Customer (KYC) regulation into simplified risk-based tiered framework that allows individuals who do not meet formal identification requirements to enter the banking system. He said the CBN and banks have achieved rapid progress regarding the new KYC regulation already released to commercial banks. He added that the CBN is also pursuing the development and implementation of regulatory framework for agent banking to enable financial institutions deliver services through agents such as post offices in locations that will other-

wise be unprofitable to open physical branches. Aminu said the CBN has also developed and is implementing a National Financial Literacy Framework to guide delivery programmes that will increase awareness and understanding of financial products and services with the ultimate goal of increasing sustainable users. The banking watchdog, he added is also implementing a comprehensive consumer protection framework to safeguard the interest of consumers of financial products and services and sustain confidence in the financial system. He said the CBN will continue to pursue adoption of mobile payment system and other cash-less policy to reduce the cost of service provision and increase the ease of financial service transactions.

“Our strategy in financial literacy is to provide leadership in a multistakeholder approach to the delivery of financial education with the objective to improve the knowledge, skills and confidences of consumers to enable them understand inherent risk and opportunities,” he said. CBN Director, Development and Finance Department, Mr. Paul Eluhaiwe, said economic growth and development in any nation is supported by the quantity and quality of goods and services provided as well as their competitiveness. Eluhaiwe, who was represented by an executive of the Development and Finance Department, Polycap Isahaku, said empowerment for economic engagement is created through the instrument of finance. He added that financial services required by the population vary depending on the economic stratum to which they belong.

Wema Bank achieves payment card security certification

EMA Bank Plc has achieved another milestone with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PIDSS) certification of compliance for financial institutions. Speaking yesterday in Lagos, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Segun Oloketuyi, stated that while many organisations may claim to be PCIDSS-ready or compliant, Wema Bank went on an extra step to get certified by one of the world’s most qualified security assessors to validate the compliance because the lener believes that trust must always be maintained with the customers by providing them with secure services while always protecting their data. With this development, he said the bank was already moving towards

By Deji Fakorede

the International Standard Organisation (ISO) certification in information security or ISO 27001/2. “The PCI requirements were developed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which includes the five major payment card issuers— MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover and JCB International, to help facilitate broad adoption of data security best practices worldwide,” Oloketuyi said. Chief Operating Officer, Digital Encode, Mr. Adewale Obadare, said it was a positive sign that Wema Bank has been PCIDSS-certified through his firm’s information security guidance. According to him, the security of card holders’ funds and transactions have been further

enhanced as the cashless system gets traction. This he said will boost customers’ confidence. He explained that Digital Encode assisted Wema Bank to scale the rigorous physical, administrative and technology hurdles required for the certification. He added that the firm had a strategic alliance with Qualys, a technology Approved Scanning Vendor and Control Case LLC, a United States-based Qualified Security Assessor that enables them audit organisations that store, process and transmit cardholders’ details with the requirements to meet the PCIDSS certification standard. Adetokunbo Omotosho, Business Director at Infoprive, external consultants to the project, congratulated the bank, saying the lender’s team had shown tremendous commit-

ment to improving its information security posture through the achievement of the PCIDSS certification. He also commended the support from the bank’s management as exemplary in ensuring that information security is entrenched in the bank as part of its operations especially during the certification process. PCIDSS is a global security standard that helps in preventing card and data fraud by evaluating payment account data security and assessing an organisation’s network architecture, software design, security policies, procedures and protective practices. Recently, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) made it mandatory for all banks within the industry to comply with PCIDSS to improve card holder’s security and privacy in line with international standards.

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

NIDF NESF

OBB Rate Call Rate

Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

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 3-07-13

SYMBOL RTBRISCOE PORTPAINT PAINTCOM ASHAKACEM PRESTIGE INTBREW TRANSCORP EVANSMED ETERNA FIDSON

O/PRICE 1.40 4.95 1.67 24.30 0.57 24.00 1.29 2.94 3.59 2.20

C/PRICE 1.54 5.44 1.83 26.50 0.62 25.50 1.36 3.09 3.75 2.27

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

CHANGE 0.14 0.49 0.16 2.20 0.05 1.50 0.07 0.15 0.16 0.07

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%

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%

UPL IKEJAHOTEL BETAGLAS UBCAP NEIMETH VITAFOAM IHS ROYALEX ABCTRANS CCNN

O/PRICE 5.30 0.90 11.00 1.18 1.40 4.65 2.10 0.58 1.22 10.50

C/PRICE 4.77 0.81 10.00 1.10 1.32 4.40 1.99 0.55 1.16 10.00

CHANGE 0.53 0.09 1.00 0.08 0.08 0.25 0.11 0.03 0.06 0.50

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 3-07-13

SYMBOL

IGERIA returned to the international bond market for the first time in two years with a $1 billion sale of Eurobonds, raising funds for power projects amid a sell-off in emerging-market debt. Blomberg report said Nigeria issued $500 million five-year notes to yield 5.375 per cent and $500 million of 10year securities at 6.625 per cent. In January 2011, the nation paid 6.75 per cent on dollar debt due 2021 in its first overseas offering and the yield on the securities surged a record 133 basis points in June to 6.02 per cent. Yields on emergingmarket bonds jumped 73 basis points to 5.80 per cent, JPMorgan Chase & Co. data showed. Demand is waning after the Federal Reserve signaled in May and June plans to rein in $85 billion a month of assets purchases that drove borrowing costs to record lows and fueled demand for emerging-market assets.

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

Nigeria faces debt drop with $1b in bonds

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS Tenor

• CBN Governor, Sanusi Lamido

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE INVE 139.05 138.58 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 165.11 163.93 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.17 1.17 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.12 1.11 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 13.66 12.99 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 1.33 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 1.80 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 11,051.83 10,722.79 • 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

Movement

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS

Over 80% of North’s teachers unqualified, says NTI chief T

HE Director-General of the National Teachers Institute (NTI), Kaduna, Dr. Aminu Ladan Sharehu, has said less than 20 per cent of teachers in the North are qualified to teach. Also, Kaduna State Governor Mukthar Ramalan Yero has said only 50 per cent of teachers on the government’s payroll are qualified to teach. Yero and Dr. Sharehu spoke yesterday at a national conference on: Quality Assurance and Control in Teacher Education as a Tool for Achieving Millennium Development Goals, organised by Federal College of Education, Zaria. The NTI conducts in-service training for national Certificate in Education (NCE) teachers across the country through distance learning. But NTI chief said over 80 per cent of teachers in the

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

North, especially those in primary schools are not qualified to teach. He explained that the figure was a sharp contrast with what obtains in the South, where the teachers are qualified. Dr Sharehu said several factors are responsible for the high number of half-baked teachers in the North, adding that many of them have never attended any training since they were employed. He said: “Over 80 per cent of teachers in the North are under-qualified because there is no motivation. You need to train and retrain teachers because NCE is just a starting point.

‘We killed over 100 village attackers to secure Langtang’

HE Special Task Force (STF) on Jos Crises, codenamed Operation Safe Haven, said yesterday it has secured the southern senatorial zone of Plateau State from further attacks by Fulani militia. STF Commander, Maj.Gen. Henry Ayioola spoke when he addressed reporters in his office in Jos, the state capital. He said the STF killed over 100 members of the Fulani militia to secure the area. Some gunmen invaded three communities in Langtang South Local Government Area last Thursday, killing 28 people. Several residents fled their homes following the attacks. Gen. Ayiola said: “This was not a case of an ethnic crisis between Fulani and Tarok. It was a case where some gunmen came to attack residents of

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

three communities of Langtang South Local Government. “As soon as the STF got the information, we moved in and confronted the attackers last week. The attackers challenged my troops but when they discovered we had superior fire, they fled. “But before the gunmen retreated, we had killed over 20 of them. My troops traced them and gunned down several of them, days after the attack. “So far, we have killed more than 100 of the attackers before we succeeded in securing the areas. “You know it is the practice of the attackers not to leave any of their members behind wherever they come to attack. They picked their bodies along...”

ASUU: we won’t resume work until govt meets our demands

HEAcademic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) yesterday said lecturers would remain on strike nationwide until the Federal Government fully addresses their demand. ASUU, on Monday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, announced the beginning of an indefinite strike by its members, with effect from yesterday. It is protesting Federal Government’s failure to “implement the outstanding aspects of the 2009 agreement” it entered into with the university teachers. The lecturers, among others, are asking for adequate funding to revitalise the universities, government’s assistance to state-owned universities, progressive increase in Annual Budgetary Allocation to Education to 26 per cent, reinstatement of prematurely dissolved Governing Councils, setting up of research development councils and provision of research equipment to laboratories and classrooms in universities. ASUU National President Nasir Isa told The Nation yesterday that the union was resolute on the ongoing strike, which has crippled academic activities in most universities. He said there had not been any “development” through the Federal Government to the striking lecturers.

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta and John Ofikhenua, Abuja

Isa said: “The strike is comprehensive and total. Our members’ services are withdrawn until the government fully implements all the outstanding aspects of the 2009 Agreement and begins the process of review of the same agreement. “The key sectors of the nation’s economy, which ought to provide the plank for development and prosperity - such as education, power, agriculture and health - are in dire state.” Also, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday urged the Federal Government to immediately end the ongoing nationwide ASUU strike by acceding to the union’s demands. NLC President Abdulwahed Omar made this request in a statement yesterday. He also urged the government to “declare a state of emergency in education because no nation grows without education”. The NLC president advised the government to respect the rights and privileges of ASUU members, especially at UNILORIN. The statement reads: “The NLC is deeply concerned about the ongoing nationwide strike by ASUU.

“In teaching, we don’t have learned people, but learning people. This is because we believe that there is no end to learning till death. So, it is only lawyers that are proudly calling themselves learned. “As for what is really responsible for poor qualification of teachers in the North, I will save that for another day. But there is need for an increase in teachers’ salary, continuous increase in their remuneration to make them better teachers.” Yero, who was represented by the Commissioner for Education, Mohammed Usman, said the government had given the nearly 50 per cent unqualified teachers in the state an ultimatum to get

requisite education. He said: “The Federal Ministry (of Education) stipulates that the minimum teaching qualification in our schools should be NCE. But majority of teachers we have today in the system are not NCE holders. So, how can they qualify to teach the new curriculum? There is no way. That means they are under-qualified. Believe me, many of our teachers today are under-qualified. “When I came on board as the Commissioner for Education in Kaduna State, I discovered that 50 per cent of the teachers, particularly those in primary schools, were underqualified. “There is no way they can do the job very well. I have to give them a time frame of five years within which to upgrade their qualifications and become NCE holders...”

Business leadership summit holds Saturday

TWO-DAY seminar for the promotion of entrepreneurship and business excellence will begin in Lagos on Saturday, from 9.30am to 1.30pm. Organised by Thrive, an initiative of Harvesters Church, Gbagada, Lagos, the seminar will hold at Plot 5-7 Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway, Opposite Mobil Petrol Station, Gbagada. The theme of the seminar is: The Heart of Business Leadership. The facilitators include Dr Sam Chand, recently named the 13th most influential global leadership guru; Pastor Sam Adeyemi, renowned leadership expert, coach and author; Tonye Cole, co-founder and Executive Director of Sahara Group as well as the summit Convener Bolaji Idowu.

Police warn vehicle owners

HE Lagos State Police Command has warned owners of accidented and abandoned vehicles parked at Ikeja and Alade, Somolu Divisions to remove them or lose them to members of the public through auction after 21 days of this publication. The vehicles are: Nissan Jeep (black colour) with registration number AX01AAA; LT Bus (commercial) XG724KJA; Toyota Camry unregistered; Volkswagen Bus XL421KTU; Toyota Corolla (brown) unregistered; Volkwagen Bus XS318LND; White Nissan Pick-up XD345RBC, Bule Nissan Sony DL413LND; Danfo Bus unregistered; Toyota Corolla DM735EKY; Blue Chryster Voyage car CL552FST; Volkswagen Bus unregistered and Mitsuibishi Gallant JN167AAA.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS Ijaw group claims responsibility for attacks

•Speedboats banned in Warri

N Ijaw group in Warri, Delta State, Egbema Radical Group, yesterday claimed responsibility for Tuesday's bloody attack. Eight Itsekiri, including a father and his infant son, were killed in Tuesday's bloody attack, targeting towns in Warri North Local Government Area. The group's spokesman, Capt Dada Amin, promised more mayhem in the days ahead. No fewer than 200 persons, mostly of Itsekiri extraction, have been displaced. Sources from the riverside communities said the full extent of the havoc wreaked by the militant was still yet unknown, stressing, "There who is nobody willing to go and find out because of fear of the unknown." It was gathered that some of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) fled as far as Ondo and Edo states. Amin, who spoke in a telephone interview, said the group is determined to ensure scuttle democratic rule in the council and make the riverside areas ungovernable. A source within the group, who acted as mediator during the chat with the warlord, said, "We gave the government enough warning to address issues of marginalisation of the Egbema Ijaw in Warri North. "Unfortunately, our warnings and threats were treated with levity and what you saw and heard about on Tuesday was just the beginning of more attacks to come. We are determined to change the

From Shola O’Neil and Okungbowa Aiwerie

situation once and for all," Amin added. The Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Koko, Lt. Col Etim, could not be reached for comments. A source in the command said he was supervising troops deployment to the troubled spot. The government has banned speed boats of two horse power and above on the waterways in Warri North Local Government Area. The Secretary to the State Government, Ovuozorie Macaulay, announced this after a Security Council meeting. He said security operatives have also been mandated to arrest youths, who hide under the guise of youth associations to engage in nefarious activities. He said: “The existing law banning the activities of youth organisations in the state is still in force. “The Council notes with regret the recent happenings in Warri North Local Government Area within the last few days. We wish to commiserate with victims and affected families. “Security operatives are in control and they should be allowed to do their work. People should be calm and go about their duties. “The Council approved the ban on all movement on the waterways in Warri North Local Government Area from 6pm to 7am.”

Delta teachers lose N22m to truancy

BSENTEE teachers in public secondary schools in Delta State have lost N22 million to truancy in five months. Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education Prof Patrick Muoboghare made this known yesterday in Asaba. According to him, the teachers absented themselves from school from December last year to April. He said the ministry took this measure to curb indiscipline, stressing that some teachers took delight in absconding from work but were the first to go to the banks for salaries. The commissioner said

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

tougher measures would be implemented, ranging from deduction of a month’s salary and dismissal. Muoboghare said the highest number of absentees were teachers from Ethiope West Local Government, where N2.251 million was deducted over five months. He said all deductions would be paid into the state’s treasury. Muoboghare said the government has invested heavily in education and would not allow unpatriotic teachers sabotage its good intentions.

PUBLIC NOTICE

LOSS OF ORIGINAL CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY The Original Certificate of Occupancy in respect of a plot of land situate, lying and being at No. 32, Lalubu Street, Ibara, Abeokuta, Ogun State, and being property of the Late Pa. A. O. Olufade, is missing. The missing document is registered as No 6, page 6 in volume 1105 of the Land Registry, Ibadan. Whoever deals or purports to deal in the said property without the consent of the children of the deceased does so at his or her own risk. SIGNED: MRS. ABOSEDE FALUA (NEE OLUFADE) & MR. IDOWU OLUFADE.

•Host communities protesting non-funding of community development projects, lack of employment and empowerment initiatives in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital... yesterday.

Suspect: we collected N10m to free Pakistanis

RESH facts emerged yesterday that the gunmen who abducted five Pakistanis off the coast of Bayelsa State freed them after collecting N10million. One of the suspected kidnappers, Jackson Fabowei, also known as Adaka Boro Jnr, made the revelation in Yenagoa. Fabowei is also being held by the police for allegedly masterminding the April 5 murder of 11 policemen in Azuzuama creeks, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. The Pakistanis were abducted on May 24, off the coast of Bayelsa State by gunmen, who attacked their vessel, MT MATRIX. They were, however, freed on June 6 through the efforts of the former Secretary-General of the Ijaw Youths Congress (IYC), Duncan Eradiri. Eradiri had, however, said no ransom was paid to the kidnappers. The five Pakistanis - Rashid Igbal, Wajid Muhammad, Waqas Admed, Mushtag Admed and Mujtaba Ghlum Muhammad - are workers of Metrix Energy, an oil servic-

•’How we shared 11 slain policemen’s guns’ From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

ing company. But Fabowei, who was arrested by the Joint Task Force (JTF) and later handed over to the police, said N10million ransom was paid. He said he took part in the kidnapping shortly after his involvement in the killing of the 11 policemen. The policemen were ambushed on their way to Azuzuama to provide security at the funeral of the mother of a special adviser. Fabowei, who said he dropped out of the Niger Delta University, Amasoma where he studied law up to 400-Level, noted that other gunmen he shared the money with later betrayed him. He said: “N10million was paid for the Pakistanis. They gave the money to us. After collecting the money, some of

us left. Around 7pm in the evening I was watching TV. “Before I knew, the same people l shared the money with came and pointed their guns at me. They said they were going to hand me over to Young Shall Grow. “I offered my share of the money back to them but they refused. They collected all the money and packed the guns to themselves. “In the morning, they tied me and called Young Shall Grow. They called him for about one hour. Then he picked the call and they told him they had caught me. “They said they wanted to hand me over to him in exchange for the guns they collected from his house. They said they needed to make use of the guns. “They advised him (Young Shall Grow) not to bring gunboats. He assured them he was

not going to bring a gunboat and requested they bring me to him. “They took me to one place called Prekegbene. Young Shall Grow boys came there and saw them with me and the guns, they took me and left others and handed me over to Young Shall Grow at Lobia market.” On what happened to the arms of the slain policemen, Fabowei said they shared the guns among themselves. “That very day we killed the policemen, we collected nine guns from them. As we got to the camp, there was a boy called Odie, he said we should go to Okugbe, by the time we went to Okugbe and came back he had collected five of the guns and drove to Ezetu. “Then Virus collected one, then Sailor took one, they gave me one and Latty took one, then Emeka took one. “Then others took their guns and went to Bakassi. I was left with one of the guns.” Fabowei said he is married with five children, explaining that his family lives in Bonny, Rivers State.

Edo rejects DPP report on slain UNIBEN student

HE legal opinion presented by the Edo State Department of Public Prosecution in the case of the killing of a final-year student of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Ibrahim Momodu, has been rejected by the Edo State Government. Momodu was killed by the former Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ogida Police Division, Mrs. Carol Afegbai, on the allegation of being a robber. He was buried by the police but public outcry led to the exhumation of his body for a post-mortem examination. The post-mortem showed that Momodu was shot three times in the back, contrary to earlier claims by Mrs. Afegbai that he was shot in the legs and died on the way to the hospital. A photograph reportedly released by some policemen showed the late Momodu lying on the ground alive. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Henry Idahagbon, who announced the government’s position, said the police were yet to do a thorough investigation.

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

Idahagbon spoke while addressing students and members of civil society organisations, who submitted a protest letter at his office. He said: “The file was returned to my office yesterday. I have examined it and came to the conclusion that the police are yet to do a thorough investigation that can grant a prosecution for murder. Murder is a serious offence. The legal penalty is death. “For any prosecution to be done in a murder case, we

must get our facts straight, we must get the investigation straight and everything must be in line with the law before we can prosecute. Having examined the DPP report, I came to the conclusion that there are still lots of lapses. “We are compelled to do another letter asking them to do investigation in specific areas. There is a difference between sentiment and law. We will not shy away from doing our prosecution. The law is blind. We will do what we need to do. The law will take its course. We will do the

letter to the police and once their reply comes, anybody that needs to be charged to court will be charged to court.” The House of Assembly Speaker, Uyi Igbe, has said the House would soon set up an independent and separate panel of enquiry. Igbe said the House would deliberate on the matter and constitute an independent panel of enquiry into the killing of the principal private secretary to the governor, the late Olaitan Oyerinde.

‘Help pass Ewherido’s bill into law’

HE family of the late Senator Pius Akpor Ewherido has called on his colleagues to help pass into law the two bills he was championing. The bills are Welding Standards Regulatory Council of Nigeria Bill 2012 and Corporate Manslaughter Bill 2013. His elder brother, Rev. Ewherido, made the plea yesterday when 20 senators of the progressive camp visited the late Ewherido’s house in Abuja.

The late Ewherido, who turned 50 on May 4, sponsored a bill on corporate man slaughter. The bill was well received and has passed second reading and awaiting public hearing. The senators were led by Minority Leader George Akume, who described the deceased as a valued member of the Senate, who was respected by all for his brilliance and progressive ideas. Akume assured the family that the senators would participate in the funeral. He told

the widow to call on any senator should she need their assistance. The other senators are: Domingo Obende, ’Gbenga Ashafa, Gbenga Kaka, ‘Gbenga Obadara, Chris Ngige, Olufemi Lanlehin, Akin Odunsi, Mudashiru Husain, Ganiyu Solomon, Anthony Adeniyi, Oluremi Tinubu, Ehigie Uzamere, Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Robert Boroffice, ‘Jide Omoworare, Muhammed Bindowo Jibrilla, ‘Femi Ojudu, Ibrahim Musa and Abdulkadir Jajere.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4 2013

NEWS Again, lawyers’ fight stalls hearing in NGF suit

•Some of the weapons recovered

PHOTO: KAZEEM IBRAHYM

Police arrest 201 suspected kidnappers

HE Akwa Ibom State Police Command yesterday said it arrested 201 persons suspected to be kidnappers, armed robbers and cultists within the last six months. The Commissioner of Police, Umar Gwadabe, gave the figure while briefing reporters at the State Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan-Abia, Uyo. Gwadabe said the command also recovered six stolen vehicles from robbers and five laptop computers belonging to the University of Uyo from Sifonabasi Etim, a native of Idoro village, Uyo.

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

According to the police chief, two suspects, Sunday Egba of Idum-Mbube village, Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State and Samuel Sampson of Ndiya village, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State were arrested with three Toyota Camry with multiple registration numbers. Gwadabe said 32 unregistered motorcycles suspected to have been stolen were recovered by the command within the last six months. Arms and ammunition recovered are: one AK-47 rifle;

Chime swears in five commissioners

NUGU State Governor Sullivan Chime yesterday swore in five new commissioners. They are Prof. Chris Okolo, Dr. George Okey Eze, Nnaemeka Chukwuone, Michael Nwachukwu and Michael Chukwuma Ene. They were yet to be assignment portfolios.

From Chris Oji, Enugu

Chime said he needed to inject fresh blood into the administration. He thanked the appointees for making themselves available for service, urging them to provide the “extra push we need as we get to the home stretch.”

five AK-47 rifle magazines; 12 locally made pistols; three locally made single barrel guns; one English made double barrel gun and two toy guns. Others are 101 rounds of 7.2mm live ammunition; 60 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition; five rounds of 9.mm live ammunition and 179 catridges. Gwadabe told reporters that the command rescued persons falsely accused of witchcraft. His word: “On several occasions, our men were called upon to rescue vulnerable persons like women, children and the elderly, who were falsely

NTERCONTINENTAL Distillers Limited (IDL) manufacturers of Eagle and Commodore Aromatic Schnapps is to sponsor the annual Awankere Festival, popularly known as the Okere-Juju Festival, which will commence on July 25 till July 27 in Okere community Warri, Delta State. The festival, which is a tourist attraction, brings thousands of Warri sons and daughters home. It provides opportunities for

accused of being witches, and who were tortured . “A case was the rescue of two male children– Mmenyene (nine) and Samuel (six), who were branded as wizards in a village called Ikot Obio Asanga. “They were rescued in a toilet having been locked up for 14 days without food and water. “This followed a so-called prophesy that the children were wizards and responsible for the misfortune that had befallen the family. Those involved, the father and a prophetess have been charged to court.”

IDL sponsors Okere-Juju ancestral worship and purification of both the land and the people. It is also said by the community to enhance fertility. Besides the music, singing and dancing which are the main parts of the celebration, Eagle and Commodore Aromatic Schnapps are introducing games, such as table tennis, football, snooker and draft, among others to delight visitors.

ISAGREEMENT between lawyers again stalled hearing in the suit by Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola over the leadership crisis in Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF). A similar incident occurred on June 25 when four lawyers disagreed on who should represent Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State and the registered trustees of the NGF. Thedevelopment forced the judge to order the disputing lawyers to resolve their dispute before the next date. The lawyers were expected to have put their differences behind them, but Awa Kalu (SAN) and F. N. Nwosu disagreed yesterday on who should stand in for the NGF’s registered trustees. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) and Paul Erokoro (SAN) have since resolved their disagreement over the representation of Jang and Osaro Onaiwu (the Sole Administrator appointed by Jang for his faction. Oyetibo now represents Jang. Erokoro is for Onaiwu. Fashola is seeking among others, an order restraining Jang from parading himself as NGF Chairman, on the ground that Amaechi won the election. He is also calling for an order restraining Osaro Onaiwu from acting as the forum’s Sole Administrator. Named as defendants include Jang, Asishana Bayo Okauru (forum’s Director General), Onaiwu and the forum’s registered trustees. At the call of the case yesterday, Prof Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), accompanied by Femi Falana (SAN) announced appearance for the plaintiff. Oyetibo took charge for Jang and Erokoro stood in for Onaiwu. Confusion, however set in when Kalu announced his appearance for Okauru and the registered trustees, with Nwosu also insisting that he was in charge. The development prompted the court to inquire from the law-

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

yers why they could not resolve their differences between the last date and yesterday. Each lawyer tried to justify his position. Kalu told the court that he had unsuccessfully invited Nwosu to a meeting to explore ways of resolving the issue of double representation. “We met on two occasions, but unfortunately, our meetings were unproductive, leading to the situation we have today - duplication of appearance for a party. “Having failed to resolve this on our own, the court should resolve it for us. In such a situation, I invite the court to resolve this matter”Kalu said. He argued that he filed a memorandum of appearance for the registered trustees before Nwosu, having done so on June 12, 2013. He said the implication was that his memorandum raises the presumption of appearance for both Okauru and the trustees. He cited the Court of Appeal decision in the case of FRN v Abiola (1997) and claimed that no lawyer will announce appearance without having been properly instructed, and that if there is need for change of such instruction, the proper procedure must be followed. Nwosu, in a counter argument, told the court that he was in court because the registered trustees. (4th defendant) briefed him and instructed him to represent it in court. “I submit that appearing first without the proper instruction from the party represented does not accord any priority against a counsel properly instructed. “I urge the court to either summon the trustees to appear and identify who should represent them or the court should order the trustees to depose to affidavits on who they instructed to hold their brief.

Your Sexual Health & You: Novelty Tips, Questions & Answers

ear Uche, I read your article in the paper and was enthused by how you solve people’s problems. I thank you for that. I am 27 year old man and I have been masturbating since I was a teenager. The problem now is that I don’t have sexual strength again. I cannot have sex for up to five minutes before ejaculating very little sperm. Also, I don’t go many rounds in bed anymore and after having sex, I usually get ill. I cannot feel the pleasure of having sex again. In short, I can say that I have lost my libido. I don’t know if masturbation can be the cause of these and I fear that I have a problem with my manhood. Another problem I have is that despite the fact that I have a huge penis, my testicles are too small like pal kernels and I feel shy undressing in front of my fellow men. Am I still man enough? Edwin Dear Edwin, thank you for the compliment. You raised a lot of issues, some of which are a bit unusual. You said that you fall ill, after having sex. What do you mean? What kind of illness are you talking about? I have never heard this before. It is normal for men to experience temporary weakness of the body after ejaculation, such that they feel like going to sleep. This feeling is common because sex is a mild sedative that induces sleep. Is this experience what you mean by falling ill after sex? If it is not, then you need to see a doctor immediately. You have also complained about low sperm volume, lack of sexual enjoyment, premature ejaculation and the inability to have several sessions of intercourse. To increase your sperm quantity, you need either the Explosion supplement or Max Load supplement. Any of these supplements will increase your sperm volume and sexual enjoyment as well. To stop your premature ejaculation, you can use a variety of products. I always write about delay creams but you can also make use of ejaculation delay Condoms (Pasante Delay Condoms) and Wipes (Sex on the Go Delay Wipes). And to enable you have

sex as many times as you want, you need a natural performance supplement such as Xzen 1200. It gives performance energy, hard erections and the ability to have multiple sessions of intercourse within a short period of time. Regarding the issue of your testicles, yes the average size of a testicle is like a palm kernel. There is nothing wrong with you there. Take care – Uche I have never had an orgasm and that is why I don’t enjoy sex – Martha Martha an orgasm is possible for every woman. While it is more difficult for some, it comes easily for others. But a sure pathway to orgasms involves the use of a Vibrator and an Orgasm Gel. You can also learn more on becoming orgasmic from the movies Incredible Orgasms and The Big O Erotic Guide to Better Orgasms. Explore some of these novelties and your sexual experiences will turn around for the better – Uche Hello sir. Please what else can help arouse a man if he is unable to take drugs? Thanks – Olatunde You can use Dickalicious Penis Arousal Gel or Instant Erection cream. You can also use a penis pump to get an erection. The Remote Plunger Pump is very good for this – Uche My husband and I are looking for unusual bedroom costumes. Any suggestions? Thanks - Jamie There are many of them. There is the Club Bunny Stretch Teddy costume and there is also the French Maid Costume, Kitty Cat Costume and Bedroom Nurse Costume – Uche That’s it for today. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments/ novelties can call 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries, send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

NEWS Slain Ibadan traders lost N22m, says leader Continued from page 2

planned an appointment with her brother on some family issues before he was murdered. She said her 35-year-old brother was buried in his house at Amuloko in Ibadan, which he moved into about two years ago. He said his fashion designer wife, Anuoluwapo, has been moved to the family house in Olorunsogo. The traders association spokesman, Mr Akeem Emiola, dismissed any possibility of a protest, saying: “It is not in our plan to carry out any protest. The governor has not offended us. Security at the market is very tight now and we have appealed to our members to maintain the peace. It is our responsibility to work and that of the government is to provide security, but they have failed us.” According to him, during the May 5 atteck when five of the traders were killed in the North, the executive of the union banned the traders from going to the North. He said the ban was lifted when the Hausa started bringing in their goods to Ibadan. He said:” “We then lifted the ban because they were making

more money while our people were suffering. That was their third trip after we lifted the ban and see what has happened to our people now.” It was gathered yesterday that the two survivors, (Taoreed Azeez and Ibrahim Ademola), have been advised to stay indoors by family and friends, who believe they may still be wanted by the Boko Haram. Senator Femi Lanlehin flayed the killings yesterday as O’Odua National Coalition (ONAC), a league of many Yoruba self-determination groups, called for an end to such wanton killings. In a statement by ONAC’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Mr Popoola Ajayi, the group urged Southwest governors to set up vigilance groups to stem the tide of violent crimes and terrorism. ONAC said its contacts in the North revealed that the “Bodija 10”were murdered in the most gruesome manner. “This murder must not go unpunished. Boko Haram is targeting religious and ethnic groups. There is a campaign of terror going on … in the North.” The group said the killings underline the urgent need to

address the “garrison structure” of Nigeria and guarantee selfdetermination for the various ethnic groups. Lanlehin (Oyo South), in a statement by his media aide, Olawale Sadare,said: “Every right thinking person would mince no word in condemning this dastardly act of wanton killings of innocent, hard working and active patriots. More so, about four of their colleagues had lost their lives in a similar circumstance a few weeks back while pursuing their lawful business activities. “The pertinent questions here are: why the gruesome killing of fellow human beings without any provocation? Who takes the blame for such wanton and unjustifiable killings? When will Nigerians be free to live in areas of choice, or move round the country as free citizens without the fear of being attacked at will?” Lanlehin sympathyised with the families of the traders, the entire Bodija market community as well as Ibadan people, who have been subjected to untold trauma and agony in view of the development. He called for compensation for the families of the deceased.

Military sacks Egypt President Morsi Continued from page 2

said to be working from a complex belonging to the country’s Republican Guard, across the street from the presidential palace, according to Egyptian state media. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the United .States government — Egypt’s leading ally — could not confirm reports of a coup. Psaki said the United States is not taking sides and urged all parties to come to a peaceful resolution to the “tense and fast-moving” situation.

An aide, Essam El Haddad, said in a Facebook posting that a coup was under way and warned that the generals risked bloodshed by moving against Morsi. “Today, only one thing matters. In this day and age, no military coup can succeed in the face of sizable popular force without considerable bloodshed,” wrote El Haddad, who works in the office of the assistant to the president on foreign relations. “Who among you is ready to shoulder that blame?” “In a democracy, there are

simple consequences for the situation we see in Egypt: The president loses the next election or his party gets penalized in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Anything else is mob rule,” he added. But Naguib Abadeer, a member of the opposition Free Egyptians Party, said what was under way “is not by any means a military coup. This is a revolution.” “The people have decided that Mr. Morsy was no longer the legitimate leader of Egypt,” he told CNN.

Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (Oyo South) noted that the position the Senate found itself is well provided for by the Constitution. Lanlehin quoted Section 58(4)(5) of the Constitution and insisted that it was clear that the President could only assent to a bill or withhold assent. Mark recalled the suggestion by Enang that the Senate should approach the Supreme Court for interpretation and asked: “How do we go about it?” With no end in sight to the debate, Ekweremadu moved that it should be adjourned to consult with the House of Representatives on the way forward. The motion did not go down

well with most members. When Mark put the question on the motion, it was not clear which side - those who wanted the matter concluded yesterday and those who wanted the debate adjourned - carried the day. Intense lobbying ensued on the floor of the Senate. After the adjournment of plenary, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Information, Media and Public Affairs, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, rushed to the press centre to explain what happened between Marafa and Nwagu. Abaribe said that the altercation between the two lawmakers had nothing to do with the State of the Nation Address Bill.

Senate in rowdy session

Continued from page 2

said the President was calling to question the judgement of 469 members of the National Assembly. Senator Ita Enang quoted several Sections of the Constitution to support his position that the Senate should not accede to any amendment proposed by the President. Enang said that the option left for the President was either to assent or withhold assent. Senator Gbenga Ashafa said that the President was only making excuses on a bill that requires him to address the people. He said the Senate should override the President.

Amaechi versus Mbu: Reps probe Rivers security crisis Continued from page 2

Bashir Adamu, Chairman Committee on Defence as Chairman. Others are Chairman Committee on Petroleum Downstream, Dakuku Peterside, Chairman, Committee on Finance, Abdulmumin Jibrin, Chairman Interior Committee, Umar Bature, Chairman, Marine Transport Committee, Ugwuanyi Ifeanyi, Tajudeen Yusuf, Opeyemi Bamidele, Sokonte Davies, Edie Mbadiwe, Nnenna Ukeje and Aisha Ahmed. In Port Harcourt, AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice Worgu Boms urged the Police Commissioner to act within the law. Boms said Mbu should discharge his responsibilities within the precepts of law and not allow himself to be used by political forces against the state and Amaechi. The Attorney-General bemoaned Mbu’s utterances and conduct which, he said, could

lead to anarchy and decried his ban on street processions. Boms said the Police Commissioner had no legal power to ban protests, explaining that the Public Order Act authorises only the Governor to grant permission for a street procession. “The Commissioner of Police is a Commissioner of Police and not a lawmaker or a law interpreter – functions that statutorily and constitutionally belong to the Parliament and the Judiciary, respectively. The Commissioner of Police is only a law enforcer and no more. Yet, being neither a lawmaker nor a law interpreter, he (Mbu) has continued to act in both capacities through his speeches and conduct all of which have combined to signpost a preference for anarchy in place of observance and maintenance of law and order for which the Police are established and for which he was employed.

Inspector General of Police,

Mohammed Abubakar yesterday said his office had not received a petition from the Rivers State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi calling for the redeployment of the Rivers Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mbu Joseph Mbu. Abubakar stated this while responding to reporters inquiries when eight police detectives were recognised for outstanding performance. Governor Amaechi had called for the redeployment of Mbu for what the governor described as the worsening security situation in Rivers State. The governor and the police commissioner have been at daggers drawn over the festering political crisis in the state in which the police boss is perceived to have taken sides with Abuja forces against the governor’s camp.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

CITYBEATS Expectant woman seeks justice for husband's murder A

WIDOW whose husband was allegedly murdered last month by a spy police officer attached toAgip Oil Company has cried out for justice. The late Nwachukwu, a welder, was the Public Relation Officer of Ogbegene Community Development Committee (CDC) in Ogba/ Egbema Local Government of Rivers State where company is located. Mrs. Evidence Nwachukwu who is expectant told The Nation that her late husband was shot by an officer attached to the oil giant. The alleged killer was simply identified as Mallam. He was shot while on his way back from a site at the community where he was supervising a water project. The widow and mother of three, who has taken the matter to human rights advocates, said the police have done their best in the matter to ensure that she and her children are not abandoned by the Agip Company, adding that they should do more for the sake of justice. She said: "I am a poor widow, my husband was shot dead by one police officer attached to Agip Company, the man was simply identified as Malam, when the incident took

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

'How Mogaji's successor emerged'

Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

place last month, we made all efforts through the assistance of the Police for the company to come to our aid but they refused." Nwachukwu who battled to control her tears also addded: "The oil com• Nwachukwu and her three kids with Odili ... yesterday pany has abandoned me and my children that is why we took the matter to human right organization for justice to be done, they have made me a widow overnight and I am calling on Nigerians and Police Authority to assist me and my children to address this injustice." The chairman of Ogbegene Community Development committee (CDC), Mr. Ishmael Odili promised that the community where the deceased served as the PRO will ensure that justice is done on the matter. "When the deseased was shot, I was the first person they called and he company is afraid to come up, but I gating the matter, as I am talking to died after the police rushed him to know we will get justice over the you now a lawyer just left my office in respect of that. But I want the Deye Hospital, Omoku. He was matter." When contacted Rivers State Po- press to always differentiate becoming back from the site one morning when a police officer stopped lice Public Relation Officer PPRO, tween the spy police and the Nigehim and shot him to death. He Mrs. Angela Agabe confirmed the rian police because the suspect is a commited no crime that is why the report. "The police are still investi- spy police"

“I am a poor widow, my husband was shot dead by one police officer attached to Agip Company ..... when the incident took place last month, we made all efforts through the assistance of the Police for the company to come to our aid but they refused”

Barber dies in bed with fiancée HAT could have caused the death of a young man while in bed with his fian-

cee? This is the poser that has proved a hard nut to crack for shell-shocked residents of 6, Are Tewogbola Street, Aboru, a Lagos suburb, since May 29. It was the day when cruel fate chose to come hard on the household of a 32-year-old barber, Sakiru Rasaq. He died shortly after sleeping with his fiancée, Endurance, at about 5am. "Nobody anticipated such a strange thing that day because everyone had planned to be part of the nation's Democracy Day billed to be observed that day. We just woke up to hear of the incident; it was like a bomb," a resident of the area, Lara Adewole, told The Nation. Neighbours seemed not in a hurry to forget the tragic incident. It was gathered that the late barber and his fiancée, Endurance, had been living together for about two years without any problem. The Delta State-born 22-year-old woman was said to have raised the alarm when Sakiru collapsed gasping for breath. A family source described the incident as shocking. "Sakiru's death came as a rude shock because he was hale and hearty. He showed no sign of illhealth on the eve of his mysterious death. He was full of life when he returned home and had shared jokes with a few residents before retiring to bed. "We were, however, surprised when his fiancée raised the alarm that he had passed out after efforts to revive him failed. Although, some have said that he might be a victim of Magun (thunderbolt), no one can ascertain the veracity of the claim," the source said. Recalling the incident, Endurance, said Sakiru got exhausted shortly after he made love to her, adding: "I don't think he was killed or that somebody somewhere had laced me with Magun or any deadly charm. For the avoidance of doubt, we still made love last Thursday and there was no problem at all. "I think it was a case of exhaustion because the problem started soon after he finished making love to me and I thought he would get over it after a

‘... problem started soon after he finished making love to me ... he stretched himself and gasped uncontrollably... he passed on just as people rushed into our room to attend to him’ By Kunle Akinrinade

little rest. I was wrong. He stretched himself and gasped uncontrollably. I was scared. I raised the alarm. But he passed on just as people rushed into our room to attend to him." Endurance explained how she metthe late Sakiru in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, where her parents live : "We met about two years ago in IjebuOde and we exchanged telephone numbers. A few weeks later, he asked me out and that was how the relationship began. He was such a nice man who showered me with love. Although, my father had expressed reservation about our relationship, I was unyielding because I love him. And to further prove my love for him, I left my father's house in Ijebu-Ode to live with him in Lagos and I was warmly received by his parents because he had told them about me. It

ATIONAL Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) yesterday arrested three cargo agents at the car park of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport MMIA, Ikeja, Lagos over a consignment containing 1.630 kilograms of cannabis meant for export to China. NDLEA Commander at the Lagos airport, Mr Hamza Umar gave the names of the suspects as Peter Madunatum, 38, Stanley Chimezie, 23, and Nlemoha Collins Chijioke, 34. All the suspects hailed from Imo state. Hamza said Peter Madunatum and Stanley Chimezie were arrested when

was later that I introduced to my parents; my father had no choice but to accept him." Battling tears, she said further: "We were making plans for a proper wedding ceremony when death snatched from me. Now, I'll have to shamelessly return to my father's house with the trauma. I'll ask one of my siblings to come over, so she could assist me to Ijebu-Ode because I am so devastated by Sakiru's death." A resident, who simply identified himself as Kareem, however, dismissed Endurance's claim, saying: "What else could have been responsible for Sakiru's death if not Magun? Endurance may not have known that she had been laced with Magun because such an act is usually done by any man that wants to snatch a woman from her husband. And the claim that they had sex a few days ago cannot hold because some kinds of Magun don’t kill instantly but take a number of days to become active. "However, we should not hold the lady responsible for Sakiru's death because he may have contacted it from another woman elsewhere and its activation shortly after having sex with his fiancée may have been a mere coincidence. But then, there is no doubt that it was a case of death by Magun." Though bitter about the incident, Sakiru's father, Mr. Salawu Rasaq, said: "It was my son's fiancée who raised the alarm that he was gasping for breath shortly after they had sex. But he died before people who rushed to their room could offer any help. As Muslim and a true believer. I take my son's death as the will of

• The late Sakiru

God and the circumstances surrounding his untimely death, though strange, are known to almighty Allah. "He lived with Endurance for some time without any problem. I was hoping that we would soon properly consummate their marriage without knowing that my son would die so soon." The late barber has since been buried. The matter was not reported to the police. Rasaq explained why: "We didn't report it to the police because that would have complicated things. Endurance was not formally married to my son. I just thank God that she was not the one that died because I wouldn't have known how to explain to her parents. There was no circumstantial evidence to link her with my son's death. He (the deceased) did not foam. Was there any sign or mark showing that they fought or struggled with each other before his death? We would ensure that she returns to her parents in Ijebu-Ode.

Cargo agents nabbed with cannabis they gave a package containing 600 grammes of cannabis to a passenger at the car park. The passenger however insisted on a physical examination of the package before accepting it. In the process, he discovered a parcel of cannabis concealed inside the package. It was learnt that the agents seeing the durgs have been discovered attempted to escape but were apprehended with the assistance of some police men at the car pack. During interrogation, Madunatum

explained how he was arrested by NDLEA officers. "I gave a package to a passenger at the car pack. He insisted on searching it and he discovered the drug. I wanted to run away with my partner when the police at the car pack arrested us and handed us over to the NDLEA," he said. The third suspect Nlemoha Collins Chijioke was caught with 1.030kg of cannabis hidden inside a bag containing garri. In his statement, Nlemoha told investigators that he accepted the consignment because he trusted his colleague who gave it to him.

THE rumour that the recently-installed Iyaloja-General, Mrs Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, was imposed by her father and National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, is unfounded after all. The Iya Oja of Mile 12 Market and Iyaloja-General of Ikosi-Ketu, Alhaja Iyabo Ahmed Jayesinmi, yesterday said Mrs Tinubu-Ojo had been picked by the late Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, to succeed her, over four years ago. Mrs Jayesinmi, who spoke with The Nation in Lagos, wondered why anybody would peddle such rumour, saying the new Iyaloja-General had been deputy to Alhaja Mogaji for more than three years before her death. "How could anybody come up with such a lie? It was Mama that appointed Shade as her successor. She did this more than three years ago when she told us that she wanted Shade to succeed her," she said. Maintaining that the issue of who succeeds the late leader is devoid of politics, the market leader warned politicians to steer clear of matters relating to markets in Lagos.

IT will reduce unemployment By Paul Oluwakoya

DEALERS in Information Technology support service in Lagos State under the umbrella of the Amalgamated Computer, Stationeries and Allied Trade Association of Nigeria (ACSATAON) has called on the Federal Government to re-strategize its commitment towards improving the nation's dwindling economy through the Information Technology (IT) sector. The President of the Association, Anselem Obasi, who made the call at the inauguration of new executive board, said the woes that have befallen the country's economy could be linked to the non-chalant attitude and lack of political will of leaders in public offices towards creating productive platform for human capital develpment in the sector. Obasi said government was narrow minded about how to fully harness human potential and capacity building, stating that Nigerian youths are able to industrialize the nation's economy but a good number of them are jobless while few survive by doing menial jobs at the market. "Information Technology support service can in a long way contribute significantly to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and as well reduce the rate of youth unemployment if the federal government would invest in the IT local market by creating an international market in Lagos," Obasi said.

Union gets road franchise By Yinka Aderibigbe

THE Lagos Chapter of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), has obtained a franchise from the state government to operate Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. Also, its secretariat located on the Igando-Lagos State University (LASU) Road is almost completed, according to its chairman, Adefowope Olorode. Olorode, who made the disclosure in his office, said the association embarked on the new secretariat as part of its repositioning efforts. He, however, said the union was yet to begin operations on the listed routes because it had not met set conditions, adding that the union was ready to support the state government's efforts to expand transportation system in the state by encouraging public sector transportation. He praised the government for granting transport unions loans and other facilities, which they used to improve transport system in the state, adding: "When we assumed office some years back, some of the things we promised to do had been completed and we have maintained peace in our association," Olorode added.

THE NATION THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

FOREIGN NEWS

Mandela’s grave row: Police break down grandson’s gate

HE gates to the homestead belonging to Nelson Mandela’s grandson Mandla in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province have been broken down by police. It comes hours after a court ruled the remains of three of the ex-president’s children should be removed from there to a nearby family graveyard. Mandla moved the remains in 2011, allegedly without the family’s consent. His 94-year-old grandfather remains critically ill in hospital suffering from a recurring lung infection. After the gates were forced, police began searching for the graves Meanwhile, court papers filed last week reveal that Mr Mandela has been on a life support machine, South

Africa’s Mail and Guardian newspaper reports. “Nelson Mandela’s health is perilous. [An] affidavit will be provided from physicians that he is assisted in breathing by a life support machine,” the paper quotes the documents filed by Mr Mandela’s family last Thursday as saying. President Jacob Zuma said on Monday that Mr Mandela’s condition remained critical but had stabilised, and he urged South Africans to plan for his 95th birthday on 18 July. The former president has said he wants to be buried in the family graveyard in the village of Qunu, where he grew up and mostly lived after he retired. Last Friday, 16 members of the Mandela family were

granted an interim order for the remains to be exhumed and moved from Mandla Mandela’s homestead in the village of Mvezo, the former president’s birthplace, to nearby Qunu, 22km (14 miles) away. But Mandla Mandela, who was appointed as chief of Mvezo by his grandfather, went to court to challenge it. The Mthatha High Court confirmed its initial decision and said the exhumations should take place at 15:00 local time (13:00 GMT) on Wednesday. Mr Mandela’s eldest grandson has appealed against the decision, but the police arrived at his property on Wednesday afternoon accompanied by Mr Mandela’s daughter Makiziwe, the BBC’s Gringo Wotshela in

in custody in lieu of $8m (£5m) bail. He could face the death penalty or the rest of his life in prison if convicted. Mr Castro’s lawyers have previously hinted they would offer a guilty plea if the prosecutor agreed not to seek the death penalty. The three women were all taken from the same street between 2002-04 During the hearing on Wednesday, Mr Castro asked for permission to visit the six-year-old girl he fathered with one of the women. “I just think that would be inappropriate,” Judge Michael Russo said, denying the request. Michelle Knight, 32, Amanda Berry, 27, and Gina DeJesus, 23, went missing in

A •Castro Cleveland between 2002-04. They were rescued from the house where they were allegedly kept by Mr Castro after Ms Berry kicked open a door and called police with the help of a neighbour. When officials arrived they rescued Ms Knight and Ms DeJesus, as well as Ms Berry’s six-year-old daughter, fathered by Mr Castro.

Belgium’s King Albert II announces abdication

N a national televised address, the 79-year-old monarch said he would step down in favour of his son Crown Prince Philippe, 53, on 21 July, Belgium’s national day. He said his health was no longer good enough to fulfil his duties, and he would step down after nearly 20 years on the throne. He is the first of Belgium’s line of six monarchs to abdicate. “I realise that my age and my health are no longer allowing me to carry out my duties as I would like to,” he said. “Prince Philippe is well prepared to succeed me.” King Albert met the Belgian government’s cabinet earlier on Wednesday to inform them of his decision, Belgian state TV reported.

King Albert was sworn in as the sixth king of the Belgians on 9 August 1993, following the death of his brother, King Baudouin at the age of 62.

After he succeeded his brother, King Albert became embroiled in a major royal scandal when he was alleged to be the father of an out-ofwedlock daughter, Delphine Boel, and suffered a crisis in his marriage with Queen Paola.

America delays key health care provision

HE main provision of a landmark health care bill passed under President Barack Obama will take effect one year later than planned, his administration has said. Employers now have until 2015 to extend healthcare benefits to their employees. The move has been seen as a major concession to retailers and other businesses. But it puts off the law’s aim

of giving coverage to nearly 50 million Americans without health insurance. It also raises questions over whether other elements of the bill will be implemented on schedule, analysts say. “We have heard concerns about the complexity of the requirements and the need for more time to implement them effectively,” said Treasury Assistant Secretary Mark Mazur in a blog post.

Canada foils ‘al-Qaeda-Inspired’ bomb plot

WO people held after pressure cooker devices are found near provincial government buildings in British Columbia. Canadian police have charged two people “inspired by al Qaeda” who allegedly plotted to bomb a provincial government building on Canada Day. The Royal Canadian

Mounted Police said John Stewart Nuttall and Amanda Marie Korody planned to use pressure cooker devices on the British Columbia legislature building in Victoria. Police said the pair targeted the Canada celebrations on Monday when thousands of people were expected to be there. But the bombs were found outside the building before

A •Mandela the graves are at the moment, have left a bitter taste in the mouths of many within the family. Some family members have also laid a criminal complaint against him for illegal grave tampering. The police told the BBC on Tuesday they would investigate such allegations and a public prosecutor would then decide whether to press charges.

U.S. drone strike kills 18 in Pakistan

Ariel Castro ruled competent for ‘kidnap den’ trial

N Ohio man accused of raping and holding three women captive in his home for about a decade has been found competent to stand trial. A judge ruled Ariel Castro understood the charges against him and could assist his lawyers. Mr Castro was arrested in May after one of the women allegedly held in his Cleveland house escaped. He has pleaded not guilty to 329 charges, including multiple counts of rape, kidnapping and aggravated murder. The murder charges relate to Mr Castro’s alleged starving and beating of a pregnant captive until she miscarried. The accused, a 52-year-old former school bus driver, is

Mvezo reports. The sheriff of the court broke down the gate with an axe and police officers are searching for the graves, he says. Three hearses have been spotted in the area, South Africa’s Eyewitness News reports. The remains are those of Makgatho Mandela, Mandla’s father who died from Aids-related diseases in 2005, and Makgatho’s siblings, Thembekile, who was killed in a car accident in 1969, and Makaziwe, who died when she was nine months old. The BBC’s Pumza Fihlani in Johannesburg says Mandla Mandela’s plans to open a heritage centre dedicated to his grandfather in Mvezo, in the estate where

Texas abortion bill advances after limited testimony

the crowds gathered. Nuttall and Korody, who were arrested on Monday, have been charged with conspiracy, facilitating a terrorist activity and making an explosive device. Police said that while Nuttall, 38, and Korody, whose age was given as either 28 or 29, were “inspired by al Qaeda ideology”, they appeared to be acting alone.

United States drone has killed at least 18 people in northwest Pakistan after a compound and vehicle near a bazaar were targeted. Reports suggest the strike in Miranshah, in North Waziristan, targeted a senior Haqqani network leader. There is no confirmation whether the leader was killed in the attack. The Haqqani network is one of the most dangerous organisations based in the tribal regions of Pakistan.

They have been responsible for most of the attacks in Kabul and on Western forces in Afghanistan. The network pledges its allegiance to the Afghan Taliban chief Mullaha Omar and is alleged to be protected by Pakistan’s intelligence service, the ISI. The strike is one of the worst since the new government, led by cricketerturned-politician Imran Khan’s party the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, took over after the general elections in May.

STATE House committee passed the bill after Republicans limited testimony and refused to allow Democrats’ amendments. The bill would ban abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy and shut down most of the state’s abortion clinics. The legislation is widely expected to pass both houses of the Republican-controlled legislature and become law. Last month, State Senator Wendy Davis, a Democrat, earned national prominence by halting the bill with a nearly 11-hour speech. The following day, Texas Governor Rick Perry, a Republican who opposes abortion, called a special session to take up the abortion bill and other legislation. Senator Wendy Davis spoke for more than 10 hours. On Tuesday, as many as 3,500 protesters swarmed the state capitol, with 1,100 signing up to testify in the House committee on state affairs on the legislation. But fewer than 100 people were able to speak after committee chairman Representative Byron Cook limited testimony to eight hours, saying the panel had already heard from enough constituents. Mr Cook refused to recognise any Democrat on the panel offering amendments, including Representative Sylvester Turner, a senior lawmaker.

www.thenationonlineng.net

THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2013

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

RIPPLES ASUU BEGINS INDEFINITE STRIKE– News

Fed Govt cares less because it won’t disrupt OIL PRODUCTION

VOL.8, NO.2,536

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

HE usually cordial and long standing bilateral relations between Nigeria and the UK are being sorely tested by recent press reports that the British Conservative government is planning to introduce a UK visa bond of £3,000 for first time Nigerian visitors to the UK. Nigeria is one of the six countries being targeted by the proposed visa bond. The other countries include Ghana, Bangladesh, India, Kenya, and Pakistan, all Commonwealth countries. It is believed that this new visa policy could be introduced as early as in November. The countries being targeted by this new measure were caught by surprise as they were not consulted about the visa changes contemplated by the British government. Nigeria’s official response to the proposal was predictably swift with the Foreign Minister, Ambassador Gbenga Ashiru summoning the British High Commissioner to the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Abuja to strongly convey to the UK government Nigeria’s displeasure and concerns about the visa measures proposed. He urged Britain to reconsider the new visa changes and left the British envoy in no doubt that the visa measures were wholly unacceptable as they were plainly discriminatory. At their meeting, the British High Commissioner was reported as saying that only first time visa applicants would be affected by the proposal, still being worked out, and that the number of such applicants is really insignificant. He added that of 180,000 visa applications from Nigeria last year, some 125,000 were approved. But he did not disclose how many of this number of approved applicants were first time applicants, or how many of them had infringed British immigration laws. The number of Nigerian visitors who break British immigration laws cannot be so large and significant as to justify the new British visa policy. Most Nigerians who go to the UK are law abiding. It is morally wrong for the UK to seek to paint all would be first time Nigerian visitors to the UK with the same brush because of the sins of a few. Many of these applicants are students who, for historical and linguistic reasons find Britain more attractive than other foreign countries. The UK should clarify the situation by disclosing figures of Nigerian visitors that have broken British immigration laws. The British authorities are seeking to justify the visa review on both economic and security grounds. But the motivation is largely political as the proposed visa measures have strong electoral appeal in Britain. In 1966, when Enoch Powell, a right wing Conservative Party leader, warned that unless immigration from black Commonwealth countries was curbed, there would be ‘rivers of blood’ in the UK he was roundly condemned by the leaders of the two major political parties for his racist bigotry. Today, Britain is less racially tolerant. All three major political parties, including Labour, will support the proposed measures for electoral reasons. The British economy is under strain. It has been slowing down for years. But this trend can hardly be blamed on foreign emigration to Britain. There is no evidence to support this view. France and Italy, both of which traditionally have also had a larger number of immigrants, have stronger economies than Britain. Neither is contemplating the visa measures

TODAY IN THE NATION

DAPO FAFOWORA

FROM THE SUMMIT dapo.fafowora@thenationonlineng.net

Diplomatic row over proposed UK visa bond

•Amb. Ashiru

being considered by Britain. The down turn in the British economy cannot be justifiably blamed on foreign immigration. The reasons are largely domestic. That is where the solution lies. As a matter of fact, foreign immigrants to Britain have had a positive impact on the British economy, by holding down wages and, thereby, keeping inflationary pressures in Britain low. Without them wages in the UK will sky rocket. The current British Conservative government has rightly embarked on savage cuts in public expenditure to reduce Britain’s huge budget deficit, the real reason for the economic downturn in Britain. The cuts are having a significant impact on jobs and public service delivery. This negative trend has made the Conservative government rather unpopular in Britain. There are security considerations involved as well in this new visa policy. The countries targeted in the fresh visa proposal are considered the major sources of terrorist attacks in Britain. Only a few weeks ago two British citizens of Nigerian ancestry were named in the killing of a British policeman. They are both currently facing trial for the murder. But the two suspects were born and

bred in Britain, not in Nigeria. It was in Britain that they were indoctrinated by Islamic extremist groups. The truth is that there are more British born would be terrorists in Britain than those seeking entry into Britain from countries such as Nigeria. The British visa review proposal is a knee jerk reaction to both the economic and security challenges facing Britain and other Western countries. It will not on its own solve Britain’s economic or security problems. What is needed to meet this particular challenge is a global and not unilateral response to a problem that is festering globally. The UN could provide a forum where this visa problem can be discussed and debated with a view to working out a framework based on a global consensus. Otherwise, there is a strong danger that the world could run into a global visa quagmire. This could undermine the much touted globalisation of the world’s economy as every country shuts down its borders to foreign immigrants. This is a real danger that the UK government should not ignore. The Nigerian authorities are right to convey to the British authorities their concerns about this proposed discriminatory visa policy. While it is conceded that Britain has the right to determine its immigration policy, this new measure targeted at some Commonwealth countries will damage the cordial relations hitherto existing between Britain and Nigeria. It will also weaken Commonwealth ties, already fragile for historical reasons. Britain is no longer a major world power. It has for decades now been on the retreat from its global and old imperial responsibilities. In fact, it is less nostalgic now about the historic ties of the Commonwealth than its partners. But it is still the leader of the Commonwealth of which its Queen is the head. This status imposes certain

HARDBALL

JIDE OSUNTOKUN

moral and political responsibilities on Britain which she now seems to have abandoned in recent years. True, Britain’s major political and economic interests are now centred mainly in Europe. Her economic relations with the Third World have declined somewhat. But that is where Britain should be seeking to strengthen its economic ties. Can Britain really ignore her long standing friendship and economic ties with the new Commonwealth countries? Can she afford to weaken her ties with these countries, including India, which have vast economic potentials? Such countries will be right in coming to the conclusion that Britain no longer cares about her Commonwealth ties and has effectively turned her back on the Commonwealth. They too will be justified in looking elsewhere for their major economic partners. Many of them are already doing so to the detriment of Britain’s economic ties with the Third World countries from the Commonwealth. As far as Nigeria is concerned, there is no point in the federal government seeking retaliation against Britain over this visa matter. This is hardly a viable option for Nigeria. Britain is not South Africa. We too should put our economic house in order. Many of our youths have no jobs. They seek emigration abroad to escape poverty at home. Yes, we have every right to be angry about the new visa policy, but our bilateral relations with Britain are so wide and comprehensive that this little matter should not be allowed to lead to any major diplomatic row between the two countries. This diplomatic wrangling is better resolved through diplomatic channels. There is no reason for instance why Nigeria should not undertake to be the channel for the visa bond being planned by the UK. At independence and for decades afterwards, Nigerians traveling abroad for the first time were legally obliged to post a repatriation deposit with the Nigerian immigration authorities. This requirement can be reactivated to meet the concerns of the British authorities. Diplomatic rows between Nigeria and Britain are not new. It is a road we have travelled several times before in our bilateral relations with Britain over the years. Examples of this include the row over the Anglo-Nigerian defence pact in 1962, differences with Britain in the period of our civil war, and the face off over Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). But we were able to resolve these disputes through diplomatic engagements. There is no reason why this method of resolving our disputes should not be adopted in the present row. The situation calls for the utmost restraint on both sides. • For comments, send SMS to 08054503031

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Why is Salisu Buhari’s chicken always crossing the road?

HAT shall we Nigerians do with a certain fellow called Salisu Buhari? Or to put it in a better perspective, what would the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), do without this chap, Salisu Buhari (SB)? For those who were too young in 1999 or who may have forgotten, SB was the golden–haired boy of Nigeria’s re-born democracy in 1999 when he shot into the political scene like a bold, bright meteor. Just in his 20s (but claimed to be older), suffused with astounding military contracts money and the right contacts in the hegemonic circles of the North, SB became a member of the House of Representatives in the new Republic. If only he had tempered his ambition and remained just an ordinary lawmaker of the Federal Republic, he probably would have risen to be a kingpin in the PDP firmament, perhaps in line to be president today or something higher if ever there was such. None of us would have been wiser for it after all we have been afflicted with worse afflictions (pardon me). But SB was a lion, osina nwata buru ogaranya, the tenderloin who made good real good, if you would allow me to put it that way. A military leg man and

carpetbagger; he pitched for the top job. It was the era of innocence when democracy was defined in salubrious officers’ mess and even dingy mammy markets depending on the taste bud of your military brass. SB – small boy who swims in big waters, he dove for the big prize: he wanted to be the Honorable Speaker of the new born 3rd Republic of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. And pronto, SB was Speaker. But before you could say “Mr. Speaker Sir”, there was trouble in the House. You know the ancient saying that when a deity begins to give its people too much trouble, they simply ‘undeify’ it by revealing the tree with which they had carved it. Our Honorable Speaker, Salisu Buhari had hardly assumed his stool when it ‘came out’ that he was not the person he claimed he was, he did not go to the schools he forswore to have gone, he was not the age he filled out in forms and SB did not do some of the noble things he may have ascribed to his name. SB was a poseur. So was the party, one would argue but then he was caught out. Thus the concept and reality of a Hon. Speaker Salisu Buhari became chimerical. His classmates at King’s College, Lagos could not work out the alchemy of an age mate ‘acquiring’ more age ahead of them. They could understand

SB acquiring more mansions and machines. It also turned out that he did not school at Toronto University, Canada which he claimed. He was convicted and he went in for it. He was the first casualty of a rambunctious new age. But just before you could say EX-CONVICT, SB was ‘slammed’ a presidential pardon by the then President Olusegun Obasanjo. Of course SB was party’s cash machine and no ill dares befall him. Obasanjo went ahead to make him chairman of an education parastatal and in spite of Nigerians shouting themselves hoarse, he never budged. The PDP government has thrown the Salisu Buhari mud at Nigerians once again. SB has just been made a member of the Governing Council of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. What grim humour, what dark, mirthless offering? Why would SB’s chicken always want to cross the express road you ask? The Salisu Buhari affair is a metaphor for the manner PDP governs Nigeria – insensitive, unthinking and unconscionable. This is how our agencies are filled with nincompoops and scallywags. If SB must get board appointments why not in less opprobrious entities; and what, may we ask would PDP make SB next, a vice chancellor?

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