The Nation July 15, 2014

19 girls rescued from baby factory

NEWS

Page 58

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VOL. 9, NO. 2908 TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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•INEC denies APC members voter cards, says party •U.S. Consul General, 30 others to monitor poll •Good times await workers, says LP • AND MORE ON PAGE 8

sack governor

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From Yusuf Alli, Abuja and Johny Danjuma, Lafia

FTER a 13-minute session, Nasarawa lawmakers resolved yesterday to go ahead with impeachment proceedings against Governor Umar Tanko Al-Makura for alleged mismanagement of N13billion in three years.

President Goodluck Jonathan landed in a helicopter in the state a few minutes after the impeachment motion was hastily passed by the lawmakers.

Jonathan was in the state to inaugurate a farm established by a foreign investor, Olam Nigeria Limited, in Ondorie-Rukubi, Doma Local Government Area.

The Assembly, which was on recess, convened an emergency session, recalling its members.

The one-item motion, which centred on the impeachment of the governor, was brought under “Matters of Public Interest” after an executive session.

Continued on page 4

Lawmakers consider report on Nyako today

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HE Adamawa State House of Assembly will consider today the report of the panel that investigated the allegations of misconduct it levelled against Governor Murtala Nyako.

The Buba Kaigama-led seven-man panel set up on July 8, submitted yesterday a four-volume report to Speaker Ahmadu Fintiri.

The panelists informed the speaker that both Governor Nyako and his Deputy Bala Ngilari failed to appear before them after being duly invited. The chairman said, however, that did not stop its investigation into the allegations.

Fintiri promised that the House would consider the report during today’s plenary.

Though the content of the report was not made public, it is unlikely that Governor Murtala Nyako may have been cleared.

Continued on page 4

•Malala (third left) with five of the Chibok schoolgirls, who escaped from Boko Haram’s captivity after her speech…yesterday.

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PHOTO: NAN

Jonathan: Chibok girls ’ll be rescued alive

OR the umpteenth time, President Goodluck Jonathan promised yesterday to rescue the 219 Chibok schoolgirls in Boko Haram’s custody —more than 90 days after their abduction.

Dr. Jonathan also dismissed the insinuation that the government had done little to rescue the girls.

The President spoke during the visit of Malala Yousafzai, the

•Malala meets President From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

teenage Pakistani girl-child education campaigner, to the Aso Villa, Abuja.

The President explained to Malala, who was accompanied by her father and other members of her Foundation, that the Federal Government’s efforts were con-

strained by the overriding imperative of ensuring that the girls’ lives are not endangered in any rescue attempt.

He said: “Terror is relatively new here and dealing with it has its challenges. The great challenge in rescuing the Chibok girls is the need to ensure that they are rescued alive.”

According to him, the Federal Government and its security agencies are very mindful of the need to avoid the scenario in rescue attempts in other parts of the world where lives of abductees were lost in the effort to rescue them.

“The time it is taking to achieve that objective is not a question of Continued on page 4

Conference ends abruptly No agreement on resource control

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WHERE ARE THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15?

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ONTHS of screaming, shouting and swearing ended yesterday at the National Conference, with delegates failing to agree on key issues.

The plenary ended abruptly, leaving the resource control controversy hanging.

Conference Chairman Justice Idris Kutigi (rtd) announced that plenary would resume on August 4 when delegates are required to consider and ap-

Delegates demand N2.6tr for Biafra victims

From Onyedi Ojaibor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

prove the draft reports of the conference for presentation to the Federal Government.

Signs that the conference might end without a compromise on resource control emerged immediately delegates settled for the business of the day.

Justice Kutigi said the “50 wise men”— chairmen, co-chairmen and

deputy chairmen of committees who were scheduled to meet on Friday to resolve some knotty issues in the recommendations of the Committee on Devolution of Power could not meet.

He blamed the inability of the select group to meet on the closure of the Abuja Airport, which he said prevented those invited for the meeting from attending.

Insiders, however, said that northern delegates shunned the

meeting“because of their opposition to the 18 per cent derivation principle proposed for the oil producing states of the Niger Delta”.

Justice Kutigi told delegates that he was still of the view that the group should be given some time to resolve the controversy surrounding the proposed 18 per cent derivation principle, five per cent solid mineral fund and five per cent insurgency fund.

Continued on page 4

•NOBEL LAUREATE NADINE GORDIMER DIES AT 90 P60 •MADUKA’S BROTHER RESCUED P58

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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NEWS

‘Jonathan ne •From left: Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Tony Okpanachi, Group Executive Director, Domestic Bank, Ecobank Trans International, Patrick Akinwutan, Chairman, Mansard Insurance, Victor Osibodu, Chairman, Ecobank Nigeria, Sonny Kuku and the bank’s Managing Director, Jibril Aku at the launch of Ecobank Premier banking in Lagos.

Malala Yousafzai is a global education advocate and cofounder of the Malala Fund. In this piece written for Washington Post, she examines the plight of girls worldwide as regards access to quality education as well as the need to free the Chibok girls

B • Legal Adviser, Bristow Helicopter, Mr. Tolu Olubanjo presenting the key to a helicopter to Rector/CEO, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, (NCAT), Zaria,Capt. Sam Caulcrick in Lagos for the training of its students. With them is General Manager, Human Resources, Bristow Helicopter, Mr. Femi Collins (left).

•From left: General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Adebola Shabi; Director, Supply Chain, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Cephas Afebuameh; former Guinness Nigeria Managing Director and Chairman of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, Mr. Keith Richards, during the 2014 Tree Planting Day organized by LASEPA in partnership with Guinness Nigeria Plc in Lagos...yesterday.

•Board member, Tapshak Enterprises, Amos Osai (left) and Globacom's Zonal Business Coordinator, Northeast, Samuel Ibrahim at the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for sponsorship of the Puuskaat Festival

IRTHDAYS are a time to move forward. We look back with gratitude on what has passed and decide that this year we will be even stronger.

I have already lived what many people might say is a lifetime. I was 11 when I started speaking out against the Taliban and for my right to go to school. I was 12 when I had to leave my home in Pakistan’s Swat Valley as terrorism and extremism

•Malala

raged in my city. I was 15 when I was shot by the Taliban and almost died but was given another life. I was 16 when I once again raised my voice for girls’ rights and education,

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A Nigerian doctor practising in the United Kingdom is banned for one year over the death three years ago of a boy twin.

He is accused of killing the boy through negligence, writes Daily Mail

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NEWBORN twin boy died because managers at an overstretched maternity unit failed to make proper checks on whether a bungling doctor was up to the job.

Dr Olufemi Dina was allowed to work only under the supervision of a consultant after being blamed for the death of a young mother following childbirth, and also after falsifying medical records.

But with a severe shortage of staff, managers at the unit where he had been working as a locum for three days allowed him to take charge of delivering Natalya Almond’s twin boys.

The first, Lien, was born safely, but his brother, Arron, was deprived of oxygen when his head got stuck for 20 minutes, and suffered severe brain damage.

Yet Dr Dina still placed him on his mother’s chest – only for her to see to her horror that he had turned grey and wasn’t breathing. Arron died after three weeks on a life support machine.

After a lengthy battle to learn the truth, Mrs Almond and her husband Neil, from Darwen, Lancashire, have now been awarded more than

•Dr Dina

Baby’s de £50,000 after the hospital accepted Arron would probably have survived had he been delivered competently.

Dina, 49, who was found to have ‘communication problems’ because English is not his first language, was later banned from practising for lying to investigators. But the Almonds are furious that none of the staff who put him in charge of such a complicated birth have been disciplined.

‘You put your trust in these people and believe that they know best,’ said Mrs Almond, 27. ‘Now we know managers at the hospital knew he wasn’t competent enough to deliver my twins but simply left him to it.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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n needs to do more on Chibok girls’ ‘ I have come to Nigeria to

honor the stories of these brave girls who have sacrificed so much to get an education and achieve their dreams. I am meeting with some of the abducted schoolgirls who have now escaped Boko Haram this time on an international stage.

This past weekend, I turned 17.

The first time Malala Day was celebrated, in November 2012, I was in the hospital, barely clinging to life.

‘

People across the world came together to pray for my recovery and to raise their voice for girls’ rights, to say that together we were stronger than terrorism, stronger than vio-

lence.

Last year the United Nations officially declared my 16th birthday, July 12, to be Malala Day. I spoke before the U.N. General Assembly with Secretary General Ban Kimoon, special U.N. envoy Gordon Brown and other great leaders. On that day, I raised my voice not for myself but so that those without a voice could be heard. I spoke of strength and power: “One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world.”

As we celebrate Malala Day on July 14, I have both hope and heartbreak. I thought we had hit a turning point in our history, that never again would a girl face what I had to face. I did not think that, just one year after my U.N. speech, more than 200 girls would be kidnapped in Nigeria by Boko Haram simply for wanting to go to school. These girls are my sisters.

Every day women and girls face unspeakable challenges. More than 66 million girls are still out of school around the world. In Pakistan, my sisters are taken out of school and made into brides when they still are children. In India this May, two of my sisters were raped and killed, their bodies left hanging in a tree. I struggle to even understand such a devastating act of violence.

I think of the girls from Syria who not so long ago knew what it felt like to be in a classroom and now live in refugee camps while the

world stands by as they become a lost generation. I think of girls who are caught in the crossfire of conflict between Gaza and Israel, heads down as they hear the terrifying sound of the air-raid siren instead of heads down in a book, as they should be.

No student, anywhere, ever, should be a target of conflict or violence. Let us all lay down our weapons.

We cannot sit on the sidelines and let this continue. Each of us is responsible. We cannot rest until we have justice and freedom for every girl and every boy. Since last Malala Day, I have been working to help my sisters, raising my voice. But we must all do more.

I know education is what separates a girl who is trapped in a cycle of poverty, fear and violence from one with a chance at a better future.

During my school holidays, I traveled to help my sisters through my organisation, the Malala Fund. I have visited refugee camps in Jordan, spent time with girls facing poverty in Kenya, and even been to New York City, where girls face bullying and violence.

I know that my small contribution is not enough. But it is a start; I am just one girl.

Everywhere I have gone, I have been humbled by the power of all my sisters. I am grateful to have met many world leaders and inspiring people. But it is my sisters I carry

with me. We all may seem different from far away. But up close, we face the same fears, and we own the same courage, if we only look deeply enough to recognize it.

We raise our voice so that those without a voice can be heard. We pledge not to forget the voiceless. Not to get tired of calling for the creation of a world that we want to live in. Not to lose hope, and not to stop caring.

Last Malala Day I told the world my story. This Malala Day, I have come to Nigeria to honor the stories of these brave girls who have sacrificed so much to get an education and achieve their dreams. I am meeting with some of the abducted schoolgirls who have now escaped Boko Haram and also some of the families of girls still in captivity, to listen to their stories and call on Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan to do even more to help them. They suffer, but I believe they are stronger than their oppressors.

Will you listen?

We are stronger than those who oppress us, who seek to silence us. We are stronger than the enemies of education. We are stronger than fear, hatred, violence and poverty.

My birthday wish this year is that we all raise our voices for those under oppression, to show our power and to demonstrate that our courage is stronger than their campaign of fear.

The road to education, peace and equality is long, but we will succeed if we walk it together.

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His mistakes have now caused the deaths of a mother and a baby, but he could be able to work again next year – what does it take for a doctor to be struck off?

•The lost twin: Arron, right, with Lien, now three.

•Moments before the end: Arron in the arms of his parents.

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y’s death in UK lands Nigerian doctor in trouble •Olufemi Dina was previously blamed for death of mother after childbirth •He was only meant to work under supervision of a consultant •Staff shortage meant he took charge of delivering Natalya Almond’s twins •Lien was born safely but Arron was deprived of oxygen and suffered brain damage and died after three weeks on life support •Dr Dina initially continued practising but has now been banned for one year ‘We feel the people who let him work that night are partly responsible for what happened.’

In 2007 the Nigerian-born doctor, who specialises in obstetrics and gynaecology, was branded negligent by a High Court judge after sending home a new mother who complained

of headaches with painkillers when she in fact had a fatal blood clot.

Then in 2008 he was accused of falsifying medical records and prescribing powerful drugs to a pregnant patient he had not seen while working as a locum in Manchester.

The General Medical Council or-

dered that he should work only under the supervision of a consultant.

In September 2010 he secured a locum post at Royal Blackburn Hospital. On the night Arron was born there were staff shortages and clinical director Mark Willetts let Dr Dina work unsupervised because the alternative was shutting the maternity unit.

Lien was delivered safely but Arron was deprived of oxygen when he became stuck. Three weeks later his parents were advised to turn off his life support machine.

In an initial report, the hospital claimed Arron’s death had been unavoidable, saying ‘no gaps in care

were identified’.But after his angry parents discovered that Dr Dina should not have been practising unsupervised, Arron’s inquest was halted.

An independent medical expert concluded that ‘the outcome could have been significantly better’ had he been supervised by an experienced consultant, but the coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Dr Dina was initially allowed to continue practising but after pressure from Arron’s parents there was a fresh investigation. The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service banned him from practising for 12 months for lying that he had told the

GMC about his Blackburn locum post.

He has now lost an appeal.

Mr Almond, a 36-year-old plasterer, said: ‘His mistakes have now caused the deaths of a mother and a baby, but he could be able to work again next year – what does it take for a doctor to be struck off?’

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust described Arron’s death as a ‘very sad incident’ and said ‘changes in practice have been put in place’. But it added: ‘The Trust has found no grounds for action against individual doctors.’

Dr Dina’s solicitors declined to comment.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

Jonathan: girls ’ll be rescued alive Continued from page 1

the competence of the Nigerian Government. We have had teams from the United States, Britain, France, Israel and other friendly nations working with us here on the rescue effort and they all appreciate the challenges and the need to tread carefully to achieve our purpose,” he said.

Jonathan said that he would meet with the parents of the abducted girls before they leave Abuja to personally comfort them and reassure them that the Federal Government was doing

•Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole speaking during a solidarity visit of All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leaders to Benin City...yesterday. With him (from right) : Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Senator Bukola Saraki, National Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun and Minority Leader, House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila

House plans to sack Nasarawa governor Continued from page 1

The lawmakers hurriedly sat between 11.30am and 11.43am They said 20 of the 24 members, who are mostly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), signed the impeachment notice.

The Assembly comprises 20 PDP members and four APC lawmakers.

Some of the allegations against the governor are: •presiding over misappropriation or outright diversion of about N13 billion in three years; •extra budgetary expenditure; gross misconduct and abuse of public office; • recruitment of hundreds of youths without budgetary provisions for the expenditure; •alleged spending of N800m by the State Universal Basic Education Board(SUBEB); •alleged missing N2billion from the Local Government Joint Accounts; and •alleged reckless spending of SURE-P funds by the Ministry of Local Government

Leading the motion, Deputy Majority Leader Yahaya Usman Ohinoyi (PDP, Umaisha/ Ugya), said: “I am on my feet to raise a motion under the matter of public interest, and I will go directly to read the document I have in my hands. This is a notice of impeachment of Governor Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa State for gross misconduct.

“And for the violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, today being the 14th July, 2014, the 20 members of the 24 members of this House unanimously endorse to serve Governor Tanko Al-Makura notice of impeachment.”

Ohinoyi urged the Assembly to resolve that the notice be served on the governor through the media.

The motion was seconded by Mohammed Okpede (PDP, Doma-North), who is also the Chief Whip.

Speaker Musa Ahmed (PDP, Nasarawa Central), sought the consent of members and the

majority had their way.

The Speaker said with the backing of the majority, the Assembly had fulfilled the relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution on impeachment proceedings.

He asked the Clerk of the House, Mr. Ego Mai-Keffi, to serve the impeachment notice on Al-Makura.

He added: “While in the event that His Excellency, Governor Tanko Al-Makura could not be reached for service, the clerk is directed to serve him with the impeachment notice through the media.”

Al-Makura was at Olam Farm before the 30-minute sitting began.

A source said: “Coincidentally, the helicopter that brought Mr. President landed a few minutes after the 13-minute session was concluded. It is just unfortunate that Nigerian politics has turned into a charade.”

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Lagi Innocent described the session as “unfortunate”.

He said: “It is our country; it is our state; all of us. It is what we cook that we’ll eat.

Public office is public trust, and it is about the people. If members feel convinced that they have answered the aspiration of the people of Nasarawa, so be it.

“But I see a situation of toying with public interest to satisfy personal interests. There is everything fundamentally wrong with this. I have issues with the Assembly; they are overstretching their powers with impunity. What is the goal to achieve from this; whose interest? They are representing our various communities; I hope they represent us well.”

The plot to impeach the governor started on November 3, last year when the Assembly decided to raise an ad-hoc committee to look into reports presented by four standing committees which carried out oversight of the Al-Makura government between May 29, 2011 and November 2013.

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He briefly adjourned proceedings and mandated the select groups to meet for two hours and report back to plenary.

This is coming after days of fruitless discussions Justice Kutigi held with leaders of geo-political zones, other principal officers and chairmen of all the standing committees to resolve the matter.

The two hours Justice Kutigi gave the select group ended up to be five hours as members emerged from their meeting venue wearing gloomy faces.

Apparently as a last-ditch effort to resolve the logjam, Conference Deputy Chairman Prof.

Bolaji Akinyemi invited five members of the group - General Ike Nwachukwu, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, Chief Olu Falae, Hon. Mohammed Kumalia and General Geoffrey Ejiga- for “special discussion”.

Akinyemi’s effort to broker compromise on the issue also failed.

Insiders said after over five hours close-door meeting with the leadership of the conference, southern and northern delegates did not agree on some of the issues thrown up in the initial meetings of some regional leaders.

Our correspondent gathered that three issues were raised during the meeting. These are 18 per cent derivation for mineral producing area, five per cent for the development of solid

Continued on page 59

Boko Haram kills 45 in Borno village attack

OKO Haram yesterday struck in Borno State in Dille in Askira Local Government Area of the state.

The sect members overran the village in the early hours burning down churches, including Church of Brethren in Nigeria.

Some houses and shops were not spared in the raid, which

was said to have happened along the Sambisa forest area.

Eyewitnesses said no fewer than 45 people were killed.

The insurgents were said to have been come fully armed with explosives, anti-aircraft guns and rocket launchers.

The military also bombarded the insurgents, it was gathered.

But details were sketchy.

House considers panel’s report Continued from page 1

But Ngilari may be cleared, sources said last night.

Section 188(8) and (9) of the constitution states “Where the panel reports to the House of Assembly that the allegation has not been proved, no further proceedings shall be taken in respect of the matter.

“Where the reports of the panel is that the allegations against the holder of the office has been proved, then within 14 days of the receipt of the report, the House of Assembly shall consider the report, and if by a resolution of the House of Assembly supported by not less than twothirds majority of all its members, the report of the panel is adopted, then the holder of the office shall stand removed from office as from the date of the adoption of the report.

Kaigama who declined to disclose the content of the report

Conference ends abruptly as delegates disagree on key issues Continued from page 1

all within its powers to rescue their daughters.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safe and proper education of all children.

He said: “I personally believe that since about 50 per cent of our population is female, we will be depriving ourselves of half of our available human resources if we fail to educate our girls adequately or suppress their ambitions in any way.

“We are, therefore, taking steps to curb all forms of dis-

however said the panel tried to ensure justice in the discharge of the provisions of section 188(5) under which it derives it functions.

He explained that although the panel lacked the powers to make both men appear before the panel, it had to delay the commencement of its sitting in the hope that they would show up since they were notified of its sitting.

According to him, the adjournment of its sitting was to allow for representation of the respondent.

“Despite the opportunity given to the governor and the deputy to clear themselves, it was not utilised,” he stated.

Kaigama also exonerated the panel of complicity, against the background of alleged haste to submit its report.

“We have discharged our responsibilities to the best of our Continued on page 59

Southeast, Southsouth demand N2.6tr reparation for Biafran war

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ELEGATES from Southeast and Southsouth geo-political zones at the ongoing National Conference yesterday demanded the payment of N2.6 trillion reparation as damages incurred during the Biafran war.

The demand was contained in documents circulated at the conference yesterday entitled “Amendment to the proposed National Intervention Fund: The case of the Southeast, Southsouth zones of Nigeria” and “Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Atrocities and injustices against Ndigbo.”

The document was endorsed by 20 Southeast and Southsouth delegates including the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Gary Igariwey, Secretary General of Ohanaeze, Dr. Joe Nwaorgu, Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, Ms. Annkio Briggs and former Senate President, Adolphus Wabara.

The delegates noted that it is incalculable to put a price on the death of millions of Igbo killed in the civil war and in other incidents.

The Federal Government, they said, should pay N400 billion each to the five states of the South East as compensation to those who lost loved ones, property and those still suffering dislocation in the counminerals and five per cent for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of states in the northern region ravaged by insurgency and internal conflicts.

While northern delegates were said to have insisted the five per cent for reconstruction and rehabilitation should be only for the North, southern delegates were reported to have argued that the fund should be for the entire

From Onyedi Ojiabor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

try.

“The same amount should also be paid to the government of Delta State for the benefit of Anioma area of the state,” they demanded.

The document added: “Since the proposed National Intervention Fund is to address the vexed issues of devastation and upheavals caused by an act of war or outright war itself, the South South and South East zones should be adequately taken care of by the fund in terms of the physical infrastructure, rehabilitation, development and other losses resulting from the civil war.”

Apart from asking for payment of reparation, the two zones said the Federal Government should, with urgency, “set up a body to work out agreed reparation to settle the civil war issue once and for all.”

It noted that all fair-minded Nigerians would agree that the former Eastern Region and part of former Mid-West Region, which encompass the present day Southeast and Southsouth zones of the country were theatres of the civil war.

The delegates said it is well known that the civil war devastated the Southeast and Southsouth zones and brought untold hardship to the citizens of the areas.

country.

The disagreement between on the issue was said to have split the delegates along South and North lines.

Our correspondent also gathered that it was suggested that since there were other areas funded from the Federation Account outside the issues being considered, “it would be proper to have a technical committee to

“The case of the Southeast which bore the full brunt of the civil war for 30 months, is particularly tragic. Most of it has remained a wasteland, despite General (Yakubu) Gowon’s declaration of three “Rs” Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation,” they said.

The conferees noted that the Boko Haram insurgency in parts of the country, and especially in the Northeast zone, has brought up the issue of reparation and reconstruction “in whatever guise to the fore and the National Conference through its Committee on Devolution of Power has tackled it headlong.”

The delegates insisted that “since what is sauce for the geese is also good for the gander, the Conference cannot afford to ignore the yearnings of our people to rehabilitate and reconstruct the war devastated South South and South East zone through the proposed National Intervention Fund or through any other integrated platform or plan available to the Federal Government.”

The noted that several panels set up by the Federal Government including the Oputa Panel, had approved reparation for war damages “but ill date, this has not been addressed.”

take a global look at the revenue allocation framework and determine the appropriate percentages on the three issues under consideration and advise government accordingly”.

The selected group was also said to have “critically examined the issues in contention and recognised the need to review the percentage of revenue allocation to oil producing states, includ-

ing those producing other resources; to reconstruct and rehabilitate areas affected by problems of insurgency and internal conflicts; and the diversification of the economy by fast tracking the development of solid minerals”.

When the conference reconvened, Justice Kutigi announced that the select group, “having critically examined the issues in

•Justice Kutigi

contention, recognised the need to: .review the percentage of revenue allocation to states producing oil and other resources; .reconstruct and rehabilitate areas affected by problems of insurgencies and internal conflicts; and .diversify the economy by first tracking the development of the solid minerals sector.

He said: “The conference also notes that assigning percentages for the increase in derivation principle and setting up special intervention fund to address issues of reconstruction and rehaContinued on page 59

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THE NATION TUESDAY JULY 15, 2014

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FRSC: Onoja, eight others battle to succeed Chidoka

INE people, including eight serving officers, are in the race to succeed the outgoing Corps Marshall of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr. Osita Chidoka.

The government is believed to be under intense political pressure to outsource the next Corps Marshall.

Chidoka was nominated a minister last week by the President.

But the workers are calling for the appointment of an insider as the next Corps Marshall to sustain the gains of the commission and allow career growth, as done in the Armed Forces and para-military services.

FRSC workers are also appealing to the President to insulate the commission from politics.

Those believed to be in the race are: Maj-Gen. Lawrence Onoja (rtd.), a former military administrator of Katsina State and indigene of Benue State and eight Deputy Corps Marshalls (DCMs).

The eight DCMs are: Yemi Oyeyemi (Kwara, Northcentral); Yemi Omidiji (Osun, Southwest); Adeyi Abu (Taraba, Notheast); Danjuma Gar-

•Commission’s workers seek ‘insider’s appointment’ FRSC promotes Jonas Agwu, 17 others

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IGHTEEN newly promoted senior officers of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) have been decorated by Corps Marshal Osita Chidoka.

The FRSC chief urged the officers to ensure transparency and fairness in their duties.

Three Assistant Corps Marshalls (ACMs) were promoted to Deputy Corps Marshal (DCM); 15 Corps Commandants were promoted to Assistant Corps Marshals.

FRSC Public Enlightenment Officer Jonas Agwu is now an Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM).

At the decoration in Abuja, Chidoka noted that with the promotions, the FRSC had all it needed to ensure efficient service delivery.

“By this promotion, you have been called to higher tasks. You are to disFrom Yusuf Alli, Abuja

ba (Zamfara, Northwest); Chidi Nwachukwu (Enugu, Southeast); Demola Lawal(Lagos, Southwest); A. K. Hassan (Katsina, Northwest) and Ojeme Ewurujakpor (Delta, Southsouth).

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

charge your duty with humility. You should be guided by the principle of fairness,” he told the officers.

The FRSC chief urged the officers to deal with their workers with sincerity.

He said: “I want to believe that you will be a disciple of the FRSC. Be just and fair to your workers. If there is justice, people will respect you and your decision.”

FRSC Board Chairman Felix Chukwu also urged the officers to prove their skills and competence, which earned them the promotion, by rededicating themselves to higher duty.

On behalf of the officers, Deputy Corps Marshal (DCM) Ojeme Ewhrudjakpor thanked the FRSC board and management for recognising their efforts.

He promised that they would justify the confidence reposed in them.

Although two of the Deputy Corps Marshal ls - Omidiji and Garba - are due for retirement next month, they are still in the race to succeed Chidoka, who had been in charge of the FRSC since 2007.

It was also learnt that the contest for the office is be-

tween Onoja, a retired General, who is rated as an outsider, and the eight DCMs. A source said: “We learnt that some political forces are pushing for the appointment of Onoja, who was once a governorship aspirant, as corps marshall. With a politician in

PHOTO: PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU

APC to tackle PDP’s reign of impunity, ‘rascality’

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Army: we can’t afford to lose war against terrorism

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•Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Nval Command, Rear Admiral Sanmi Alade and Commander, NNS Beecroft, Commodore Ovenseri Uwadiae, during a briefing in Lagos... yesterday.

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has promised to stop the alleged attempt by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to destabilise APC-controlled states.

The party said it would no longer tolerate the “impunity” and “rascality” of the PDP, which it said has undermined the institutions Nigeria depended upon.

It claimed to have uncovered “a properly mapped out war against APC by the PDP to destabilise APC governments and governors”.

APC also said it was regrettable that the PDP was dividing the country along religious lines.

Its National Chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun spoke yesterday in Benin, the Edo State capital, when he led the party’s leadership to a solidarity visit to Governor Adams Oshiomhole on the crisis rocking the House of Assembly.

Odigie-Oyegun hailed Oshiomhole for standing on the side of truth and for being resolute.

He said: “We are trying to contain the fire that has been lit in Adamawa State. We are

charge, there is no way the activities of the FRSC will not be politicised one way or the other.

“It is true that Onoja has a robust military antecedent but those records have been overwhelmed or overtaken by his involvement in partisan politics. Besides, age is no longer on his side at all. Yet, a Corps Marshal is expected to lead a commission of hi-tech generation of young officers.

“Also, the FRSC was almost polarised the last time Gen. Haladu Hananiya, from Adamawa State, was appointed the Corps Marshal. It got to a point we had North-South divide in the commission.

“We have had enough of outsiders and retired hands to head this important commission.”

Responding to a question, the source said: “Yes, Chidoka was an outsider as far as the FRSC is concerned. But requisite qualifications and age were on his side and he quickly adjusted to the tasks at hand.

“He is a Corps Marshal who chose to learn daily. And

•Oshiomhole: PDP inducing Edo lawmakers with N75m From Osagie Otabor, Benin

preparing for the ones they are promising in Nasarawa State and the bombs have started exploding in Kano.

“We are preparing ourselves to meet these challenges and we have decided strongly that it is time that this rascality of the PDP should have their consequences.

“So, we are not sitting back anymore and accepting what is being dished out to us because the level of impunity is becoming totally unacceptable.”

Odigie-Oyegun regretted that national institutions, especially the security agencies, were being undermined by the PDP. The APC national chairman noted that the desperation of the PDP to hang on to power in 2015 was a sign that the PDP was afraid of defeat.

He said: “We have seen what has happened here, the way the police have been used to protect eight or nine people against the lawful decisions of a court, against a lawful government, against a

lawful and majority-controlled Assembly.

“We do not think those who are doing these sufficiently thought of the damage they are doing to the cohesion of this nation of ours.

“We, today, are being tagged in pejorative ways as ‘the supporters of Book Haram’. The implications of that on national cohesion are very obvious.

“We agreed that since lives were involved in the Boko Haram onslaught, we will cooperate with the government, even when we do not agree with the way they are handling things, to make sure that the issue is not politicised.”

Oshiomhole blamed the police for promoting the crisis in the Assembly.

The governor urged APC members to reconnect and ensure effective communication with one another.

He said the PDP was frustrated by his achievements.

Oshiomhole alleged that the PDP planned to destabilise his administration by inducing the lawmakers with as

much as N75 million.

He said: “Previous Houses of Assembly at one time or the other, either for the right reasons or the wrong reasons at the state and even at the national level, have had cause to suspend their members. It has never become a big issue to the economy of the state.

“I think it is more of the way the police have sought to intervene in the suspension and providing armed cover to force those people into the House that has become an issue.

“In a democracy, the police must be seen as a creation of the law.”

APC chieftains on the visit included the National Secretary, Alhaji Mai Mala Goni; the National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Dr Ogbonnaya Onu. Others are former Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Mallam Nasir El-Rufai; former Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki; Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and House of Representatives’ Minority Leader Femi Gbajiamila.

Chidoka has been able to move the commission forward leading to his appointment as a minister.”

But another top source said the FRSC workers were insisting on the appointment of the next Corps Marshal from “within”.

The source said: “The workers are saying that of all paramilitary organisations, only the Corps Marshal of the FRSC is outsourced because of political interest. Except former Minister of Defence (Navy) Olu Agunloye, who emerged Corps Marshal from inception, others were brought from outside.

“It is professionally killing and diminishing for FRSC staff not to get to the peak of career. This is not obtainable in the Nigerian Prison Service, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Nigerian Customs Service among others.

“The workers are appealing to the President to allow merit to guide his choice of the next Corps Marshal instead of political rehabilitation or compensation.”

HE Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, has said the army and other security agencies cannot afford to lose the war against insurgency and terrorism.

Gen. Minimah spoke yesterday in Abuja at the opening of the three-day Chief of Army Staff’s Third Quarter Conference.

The Army Chief called for public support and understanding to accomplish the war.

He acknowledged the expectations of Nigerians to see a speedy end to the war against terrorism, adding that the challenges the insurgents posed were enormous.

Gen. Minimah said: “Our nation is today faced with enormous security challenges. The upsurge in terrorism has shifted the focus of the public to the Armed Forces, particularly the Army.

“Our activities are increasingly coming under public scrutiny. While a lot of patriotic Nigerians have continued to support the Army, others have cast aspersions on our competence, integrity and ability to rise to the occasion. The Nigerian

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

Army is performing and I also know the expectation of Nigerians; the expectation is rather in a haste. We need some time, we need patience.

“We are fighting terrorism; we are not fighting a conventional war. The Nigerian Army is a conventional army. We are also fighting terrorism. The terrorist is someone you don’t know; maybe someone who sold food to you or fruits to you in the morning. But by afternoon, he is a terrorist.

“We are having all that interplay in the battle fronts in the Northeast. We have to be cautious to separate the terrorists from law-abiding citizens.

We also have the human rights to protect because you don’t just go out and start killing people and say they are terrorists.

Some of them are also innocent Nigerians.

“We are bound by all the international treaties of human rights. Therefore, we need time.

I know the expectation of the Nigerian citizen is that this thing should have been over by yesterday.”

Soyinka is a man of extraordinary courage, says Atiku

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ORMER Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has said Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka is a credible social critic who created a big space for himself in the hearts of Nigerians.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his media office on Soyinka’s 80th birthday, the former vice-president said he always admired the Nobel Laureate’s patriotism and courage to speak freely and honestly on public issues.

Atiku said: “Soyinka is an inimitable and indomitable social critic who does not hesitate to criticise Nigeria’s leaders whenever he believes they were going wrong.”

The Turaki Adamawa noted that the Nobel Laureate looked at national issues beyond ethnic and regional sen-

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

timents, adding: “His views are coloured by the larger national interests.”

The former vice-president also recalled that when Soyinka was criticising the governments in power, many Nigerians praised him from safe distance.

Abubakar said the Nobel Laureate was always on the side of the ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, Soyinka’s courage to criticise military regimes, which at one point took him to jail, was a shining example of his remarkable courage.

He wished the Nobel Laureate many more years of patriotic service to Nigeria and humanity.

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THE NATION TUESDAY JULY 15, 2014

NEWS

Reps, Fed Govt, NMA meeting deadlocked

Fashola lambasts PDP over rally at Gani Fawehinmi Park

•Lawmakers summon Okonjo-Iweala, others From Victor Oluwasegun, Abuja

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• Governor: over five million trees planted in six years

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AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) yesterday berated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for holding its rally at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park at Ojota.

The park is among the greening initiatives of the state government which the PDP had described as “cosmetic and elitist”.

The PDP, last Friday, staged a rally at the park as part of Ekiti State Governorelect Ayo Fayose’s “thank you” tour of the Southwest.

Fashola spoke yesterday at this year’s tree planting campaign in Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LDCA).

The governor said the PDP leaders, by their action, vindicated his administration’s greening policy while they also displayed their inconsistency.

He expressed satisfaction with the success of the greening initiative and tree planting.

The initiative has provided jobs for thousands of youths, Fashola said.

The governor recalled that at inception, the PDP criticised the programme and labelled it a waste of tax payers’ money.

He said the tree-planting exercise and greening programme, since inception in 2008, had generated over 75,168 jobs for horticulturists, pruners, gardeners, welders, tanker drivers, security personnel and other artisans.

• Fashola (middle) planting a tree...yesterday. With him are: Commissioner for the Environment, Mr Tunji Bello (second left); Chairman, Eti-Osa Local Government Area, Yisa Owolabi (right) and Olumegbon of Lagos, Chief Fatai Lawal (left) during the 2014 tree planting campaign at Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie Road, Sangotedo Eti-Osa Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos.

PHOTO:MOSES OMOSEHIN

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro and Precious Igbonwelundu

Fashola said: “But our uninformed and unable - and I say so emphatically - our unable opponents, criticised this initiative. They called it cosmetic, they called it elitist.

They clearly demonstrated their ignorance because the environment is also the new economy. They are ignorant.

“What they call cosmetic and elitist has developed our economy. It has created jobs and it has put food on the tables of many people who would otherwise be unemployed.”

The governor recalled that the PDP-led Federal Government attempted to stop the fuel subsidy removal protest in 2012 at the Fawehinmi Park with armed soldiers.

He said: “Our opponents have no shame. In their unthinking inconsistency, it was at the same Ojota Park, the same Gani Fawehinmi Park they now chose to hold their party rally last week.

They lie, they forget what they said, what they complained about. Don’t believe them.

“Have they forgotten that

the park was cosmetic? Have they now forgotten that the park is elitist? Or, indeed, are they the true elite?

“For me, they have shown themselves up for who they are: a party that is unworthy of trust and lacking in consistency.

“I feel vindicated because this initiative is consistent with Goal Number 7 of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and our party’s commitment to sustainable environmental development.

“I feel vindicated because we have turned environmental challenges into massive economic opportunity. I feel vindicated because our opponents, in their flip flop and in their lies and in their shameful inconsistency, have also vindicated me.”

Reminding residents that it was his last tree planting as governor, Fashola said the exercise had been institutionalised with the setting up of the Lagos State Parks and gardens Agency (LASPARK) to maintain and sustain parks, gardens and trees across the state.

He said: “Our government and our party, the All Pro-

gressives Congress (APC), remains committed to continuing this initiative. But you know now what our opponents think about this programme. They have told you.

So, if you value this job, if you value the economic benefit, you must vote to keep this programme going. You must defend your livelihood and your jobs with your votes. May God help you as you do so when the time is right.”

Commissioner for the Environment Tunji Bello said over 5,000,313, trees had been planted while over 297 sites had been landscaped.

Also yesterday, Fashola said the state had planted over five million trees since it initiated the tree-planting campaign in 2008.

The governor spoke at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft at Apapa, where he donated 200 tree seedlings to the Navy in commemoration of this year’s Tree Planting Day. Represented by a lawmaker, Wahab Alawiye, the governor said by planting about 5,000,313 trees, the state government overshot its estimated one million trees in

10 years and achieved a 60year feat in six years.

He said: “In the past seven years, we have come together once a year for the treeplanting exercise because it has been proven that the quality of our health largely depends on the number of trees around us. “…Trees are known to make a huge impact in the fight against environmental problems, including global warming. Apart from the aesthetic value of trees, the health and environmental benefits are innumerable. “...In the past six years, we have vigorously pursued the policy of total regeneration of the environment, which was part of our pact with Lagosians when we came into office. More than ever, our environment has been restored to a considerable extent and this has earned us both local and international awards.

“In 2008, when we launched the tree-planting exercise, our target was to plant one million trees in 10 years. We have planted over five million across Lagos that is a feat of 60 years achieved in seven years.”

Boko Haram: Danjuma heads panel on Victims’ Support Fund

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HE Federal Government yesterday named Gen. T. Y. Danjuma as the Chairman of the 26-man Committee on Victims’ Support Fund.

A statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, said the committee will be inaugurated by President Jonathan tomorrow at the Council Chamber, Aso Villa, Abuja.

The statement reads: “In its continued effort to scale up support for victims of insurgency and terror attacks nationwide, the Federal Government has constituted a Committee on Victims’ Support Fund to mobilise resources and administer appropriate support to victims of insurgency and Boko Haram terror activities all over the country.

“Accordingly, President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the composition and appointment of members of

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

the Committee on Victims’ Support Funds.”

Fola Adeola is the Deputy Chairman of the committee.

Other members include Mohammed Indimi, Abdulsamad I. Rabiu, Sani Dauda, Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija, Cosmas Maduka and Jim Ovia.

Other are: Businessman Wale Tinubu; the DirectorGeneral of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Sani Sidi; Air Vice Marshall Tony Omenyi (representing Defence Headquarters); Police Commissioner Salisu Fagge, representing Nigerian Police Force; Mr. Sayana Yusuf, representing the Department of State Services (DSS); Uche Secondus, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Deputy National Chairman (South); Tijani Tunsah, All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy National

Chairman (North).

Others are: Representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); representative of Jamaatul Nasril Islam (JNI); Mrs. Nkechi Mba, representing the National Council of Women SocietiesMember; Prof. Ben Angwe, Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC); representative of the United Nations (UN); representative of the Department for International Development (DFID); representative of the Unites States Agency for International Development (USAID); representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC); Balarabe Musa, representing the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP); two representatives of local civil society/youth groups (male & female). The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) is the secretariat of the committee.

HE hope to end the indefinite strike of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) dimmed yesterday.

Efforts by the Ndudi Elemelu-led House of Representatives’ Committee on Health to resolve the dispute between the doctors and the Federal Government ended in a deadlock.

The NMA officials held their grounds that they would not end the strike until some important aspects of their demands, particularly skipping and relativity, were resolved.

The union rejected the passionate pleas from the lawmakers, Health Minister Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu and Labour and Productivity Minister Emeka Wogu to end the strike.

Members of the committee urged the NMA to suspend the strike to stop avoidable deaths in public hospitals.

NMA President Kayode Obembe said: “Some of what we are asking for have been on for 22 years.

“First, I want us to realise that ...we doctors are human beings and are not interested in strikes. The people who are dying are our people. We are not isolated. We are not strike mongers but life savers.

“Relativity and skipping, if not resolved, doctors will not go back to work. They (NMA members) want to see the alert on the relativity.”

According to him, the circular issued by the Health Minister failed to address the issues raised by the NMA. The union leader said the disparity between the basic salaries of doctors and other health workers had remained unresolved for 22 years.

Obembe said the Federal Government and its agencies were to blame for failing to honour various agreements between both parties.

He added that the Federal Government could not be trusted.

Obembe said: “They first said March, then June. But both failed. They are now saying September.”

The NMA also requested for the payment of N13 billion, of which N9 billion is to bridge the disparity between basic salary of doctors and other health workers for this year.

The union asked for another N4 billion for call duties, shift duties, clinical duties allowances, among others, for medical and Health workers in federal employment.

Wogu told the committee that 23 of NMA’s 24 demands were being addressed.

The minister urged the doctors to return to work pending the full resolution of their requests which, he said, might last between 30 days to three months.

He said a committee, chaired

by Yayale Ahmed, which would address various issues, had been set up by the President.

Wogu said dental workers had recourse to the National Industrial Arbitration Court in their case.

Chukwu said the contentious circular on the Deputy Chairman Medical Advisory Committee would be resolved.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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NEWS Ekiti NULGE gives govt 21-day ultimatum

Daniel greets Osoba at 75 Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

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From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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KITI state chapter of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government over unresolved welfare issues.

The ultimatum was contained in a statement issued at the end of the union’s emergency meeting held in AdoEkiti, the state capital yesterday.

Its chairman, Bunmi Ajimoko, in the statement signed by the association’s secretary, Mr Victor Adebayo, said the government ignored its advice “and decided to carry on with its activities without giving a thought to the problems of council workers”.

Some of the issues, according to the statement, include implementation of Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).

Ajimoko said “nurses working at the councils take monthly salaries of about N70,000 lower than their counterparts in the state service”.

Other grounds for grouse, according to the statement, include “usurpation of local governments in the area of running grants and functions by the Ministry of Local Government, which is at variance with the operations of past administrations and Underfunding of the Local Government Service Commission and other local government agencies through an Act of Ekiti State House of Assembly to reduce its statutory grants from 5 per cent to 4 per cent without due recourse to public opinion and other relevant key stakeholders”.

Ajimoko said if no useful moves were taken to resolve the problems before the expiration of the ultimatum, council workers would downtools.

•Governor Abiola Ajimobi (right) addressing traditional rulers from Atisbo Local Government Area who visited him in his office in Ibadan...yesterday.

Osun PDP expels six chieftains T

HE leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State is far from being resolved, as six stalwarts of the party have been expelled.

In a statement by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Bola Ajao, yesterday, those suspended include the Deputy Chairman of the party, Bashiru Salaam, former Secretary, Mr. Yinka Adeojo, Secretary, Maj. Raphel Towobola (rtd.), Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye, Alhaji Rasaq

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From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Oyetunji and Rasaq Oyelami.

The PDP said the chieftains were expelled for alleged antiparty activities. He said the decision to expel them was taken at the State Working Committee meeting of the party.

Towobola, however, described his expulsion as “the joke of the year which cannot stand.”

He said the purported expulsion was carried out be-

Towobola, who claimed that he is educated and sophisticated enough to allow his name to be soiled, said he would challenge his expulsion, maintaining that he remained the secretary and a bonafide member.

Igbalaye, chairman of the Osogbo Local Government and ALGON during Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s administration, said he was expelled because he belongs to Oyinlola’s camp.

Oke-Ogun, Awori seek own states

HE Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria (AWAN) has urged the National Conference to include Awori State on the list of proposed states.

In a statement issued in Lagos by the President of the association, Chief S. Ojolowo, the group said: “Awori are still vehemently and strongly opposed to the creation of Lagoon State as it is presently being proposed and presented to the National Assembly, which purports to include a good portion of Aworiland when, in fact, the Awori people were not consulted.”

He said the group earlier proposed the creation of Awori

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan and Basirat Braimoh

State, which would merge both Awori groups in Lagos and Ogun states into one state.

“It is, therefore, not out of place if the confab, in its wisdom, supports the merger proposal of our kinfolks in Ogun State to be transferred to Awori State for equity and fairness,” the statement read.

The people of Oke Ogun, Oyo State are also seeking the creation of a state to end what they described as marginalisation.

The acting president of Oke Ogun Development Council (ODC), Mr Oladoja Oladele,

Twelve aspirants jostle for Oyo PDP governorship ticket

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cause on March 10, he challenged his suspension from the party at the national secretariat in Abuja, adding that his protest letter was yet to be investigated.

Towobola added that the expulsion was a grand design of the Chairman, Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa, to take over his office. He said that all those allegedly expelled along with him have written to the party of their intention to dump the party.

Ajimobi, Aregbesola for Youruba Conference

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

O fewer than 12 aspirants are battling to get the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State ahead of next year’s election.

They include the immediate past governor, Adebayo AlaoAkala; his deputies Hazeem Gbolarumi and Taofik Arapaja; former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, Prof. Taoheed Adedoja, business tycoon, Seyi Makinde, former Chairman, Oyo State Basic Universal Primary Education Board, Prof. Soji Adejumo; Femi Babalola, former Senate Leader Teslim Folarin and Chairman, Oluyole Local Government, Kehinde Olaosebikan.

Others are: Dr Azeez Adeduntan and former commissioners for Health, Dr Babalola Owolabi and Dr G. Ola Adetunji.

Their posters adorn the State Secretariat of the party along Queen Elizabeth Road, Ibadan and a few spots in the city.

However, there is another faction of the party with secretariat on Yemetu Road, Ibadan. The faction is being coordinated by the Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Jumoke Akinjide, who is also believed to be eyeing the ticket.

A chieftain of the party, Chief Lekan Balogun, who is believed to be throwing his weight behind one of the aspirants, yesterday denied the allegation. He described it as the figment of imagination of those spreading the news.

Balogun, who is the Osi-Olubadan of Ibadanland, said there was no way he could allign with any of the aspirants because of his position, not only as a leader, but also as an elderly person to all of them.

spoke at the Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan while addressing reporters along with the monarchs of the zone.

He said: “From the early 1960s, attention has always been called to the backwardness of the northern portion of the area called Oyo province. That portion later became known as Oyo North or Oke Ogun.

When states began to be created, the feeling was that development would be brought to the area as was being done to other parts of Nigeria, Western State and Oyo State to which Oke Ogun area geographically belongs. Alas, this feeling was not not be as

•Aregbesola

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OVERNORS Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) and Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) will lead dignitaries to the Youruba Youths Conference in Ibadan on Thursday.

According to the organizers, the Coalition of Oodua Self Determination Groups (COSEG), participants are ex-

pected from Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Lagos as well as Kwara and Kogi states.

The secretary of the planning Committee of the 10th Yoruba Youth Conference (Oluyole 2014) Mr Gbenga Soloki, said the theme of this year’s edition is “Yoruba - A Nation under siege”. The lead speaker will be Prof Ayo Olukotun of Leeds City University, Ibadan. Dr Oluyomi Finnih will chair the occasion.

Aregbesola is the special guest of honour.

Eminent Yoruba who have excelled in their chosen profession especially public governance, will also be honoured, Soloki said.

year in, year out, marginalization, neglect and disempowerment continue to be the lot of the people of the area and the land on which they dwell.”

On how viable the state will be when created, he said: “Our zone is blessed with resourceful, resilient, industrious and peace loving people; a vast land of rich agricultural possibilities, immense natural resources, a historical setting with monumental sites and traditional crafts. The proposed state has structures that can meet the immediate administrative needs of a few state.”

ORMER Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel has extolled the virtues of Aremo Olusegun Osoba, his predecessor, who is 75 today.

He said Osoba remains an elder statesman, astute grass-roots politician and a veteran journalist.

Daniel noted that Osoba’s legacies as governor could not be easily forgotten.

In a statement by his Media Aide, Mr Ayo Giwa, Daniel said Osoba opened up many rural communities and extended electricity supply to the nooks and crannies of the state in line with the rural integration policy of the legendary Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Daniel said: ”Chief Osoba, according to Otunba Daniel, was a front-line and fearless journalist of the old stock whose footprints were instrumental to the shaping modern journalism in Nigeria.

“New and younger generation of journalists owe a lot to the quintessential former governor as a patron and veteran of that noble profession.”

Illegal tree fellers in Ondo From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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LLEGAL tree fellers have invaded the Ondo State Forest Reserve from the neigbouring Edo, the Commissioner for Natural Resources, Mr. Tunde Atere, has said.

Atere said when he and the Joint Task Force (JTF) recently went on anti-encroachment and surveillance visit to Ose River Park at Ose and Owo Local Government Area, where he uncovered 1,764 billets of indigenous tree know as ‘Arera’ illegally exploited by fellers from Edo State with the connivance of some indigenes of the localities.

Atere, who described the development as sad, said the illegal act continued despite regular dialogue with indigenes to prevent such act.

He said the billets would be sold on court orders and the proceeds would go into government coffers.

INEC ready for litigation on Ekiti election, says REC From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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KITI Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Halilu Pai has said the commission is ready to defend its integrity before the Election Petitions Tribunal.

In a telephone conversation with reporters in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, yesterday, Pai said the action taken by APC was right, according to the Electoral Act 2010, as amended.

Pai spoke through the commission’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Taiwo Gbadegesin, in reaction to the petition filed at the Election Petitions Tribunal by the Chairman of APC in the state, Chief Jide Awe. His words: “The candidate declared by INEC, Mr Ayodele Fayose, won the election gallantly, having fulfilled the laid-down provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended during the election.

“Any aggrieved party or candidate who wishes to challenge the outcome is equally free to do so within the ambit of the same enabling instrument.”

The REC added that the Commission did not perpetrate any form of compromise, noting: “We are even happy that they are in court, rather than trying us on the pages of newspapers”.

THE NATION TUESDAY JULY 15, 2014

8

NEWS OSUN 2014

LP: good times await workers From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

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SUN State Labour Party (LP) has assured civil servants of good times, if its governorship candidate, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, is voted into power in the August 9 poll.

The Media Director for the LP’s governorship candidate, Mr. Kayode Oladeji, in a statement, said workers’ minimum wage would be reviewed upward across board.

The LP candidate assured that there would be job security for workers, saying they would be allowed their full term of 35 years of service or 60 years of age, while those in tertiary institution would enjoy the statutory 65 years of age.

Akinbade said: “By the special grace of God, under the Labour Party government in Osun State, we shall ensure that the welfare of workers receives due and prompt attention. Their present minimum wage shall be reviewed upward across board.”

•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (right) addressing the crowd during the launching of Micro Credit Agency and distribution of Mini-Buses to Cooperative Transporters and Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) at Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo, the state capital.

U.S. Consul General, 30 others to observe poll

By Precious Igbonwelundu

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HE United States (U.S.) Consul General in Lagos, Jeffrey Hawkins, said yesterday he would be leading a team of about 30 American observers to Osun State for the August 9 governorship election.

Hawkins spoke at the opening ceremony of a four-day workshop organised by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria for press and public affairs officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) drawn from parts of the country.

He said the U.S. would closely monitor the election because it is a key to cementing Nigeria’s democracy.

“I will be in Osun on the election day. We will be deploying about 30 observers in similar magnitude with that of Ekiti.

“The Osun election is the last litmus indicator for future elections in Nigeria. Please be transparent with the process.

“We have a wide programme working with the INEC through the United States Agency for International Development and through various training sessions to support the work of INEC and we have a close collaboration with the Chairman, Attahiru Jega and others.

“So, there is a strong commitment from the U.S. to democracy in Nigeria whether it is on a localised level or at the national level,” said Hawkins.

While expressing the U.S.’ satisfaction with the Ekiti governorship poll, Hawkins urged the INEC press and public affairs officers to be open and transparent while they go about their duties during elections.

He said: “Be honest with your immediate colleagues, journalists and the Nigerian public and demonstrate to the Nigerian people that the country is on the right track; that the democracy is moving forward.

“Let the people know that they have an electoral commission that cares about honest results in the elections. It is a big challenge, but if you can achieve that you would have done a good thing for the country and you would be great patriots for Nigeria.”

Osun State INEC Public Affairs Officer Adenike Tadese has said the commission was 85 per cent ready to conduct the election.

“We in INEC Osun State are 85 per cent prepared. We still have other things to put in place such as the training of adhoc staff which would be done between July 29 and 31,” she said.

INEC denying our members Permanent Voter Cards, APC alleges

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised the alarm over what it alleged is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise its members in Osun State from the August 9 governorship election.

It accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of denying its members their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) after insisting that only those who possess PVCs will be allowed to vote.

They party’s National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in a statement in Benin yesterday, said INEC has resorted to asking those who daily throng its offices in Osun which party they belong to.

The statement said almost all those who have identified themselves as APC members were told their PVCs were not ready. ‘’This is nothing but sys-

O

lowing all those who can present their temporary voters cards to exercise their franchise on election day. ‘’Anything short of an urgent resolution of the PVC crisis, which may have been instigated deliberately by unscrupulous elements within INEC, will not augur well for a free, fair and credible election on August 9th,’’ APC said.

The party recalled that since it first raised the alarm over the PVC shenanigans in Osun, via a statement it issued on July 6th, the situation has gone from bad to worse.

APC claimed INEC had failed to speak out publicly to refute the charges of deliberately disenfranchising opposition voters in order to give an unfair advantage to the PDP. “The continued denial of APC members in Osun of their PVCs and the silence of

INEC over the issue have given us a serious cause for concern and we are calling on INEC to resolve the issues we have raised if indeed the commission has no plan to collude with the PDP to rig the August 9th election in Osun,’’ the party said. ‘’When the referee decides to play for one of the teams he is supposed to preside over in a critical match, there can be no grounds to continue with the match or repose any confidence in the calls made by the referee. We sincerely hope INEC is listening. ‘’We also call on local and international observers to take more than a passing interest in the pre-election processes in Osun, especially the issue of whether or not all those who registered to vote are able to do so without a colluding electoral commission preventing them from exercising their franchise,’’ it said.

‘Opposition planning to implicate Adeleke’

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HE All Progressives Congress in Osun State has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of planning to implicate the state’s first civilian Governor, Senator Isiaka

SDP: credible poll possible on August 9 SUN State Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) governorship candidate Mr. Olusegun Akinwusi has expressed confidence in the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a free and fair poll on August 9.

Akinwusi, who spoke during the visit of Concerned Osogbo Indigenes and Non-Indigenes Group (COING) to his campaign office in Osogbo, the state capital, called on co-contestants in the forthcoming election to desist from violence.

He expressed concern over alleged plan of Governor Rauf Aregbesola to use his “State Boys” and members of Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) to cause mayhem during the election.

“I detest violence and that is why I go about

tematic rigging from source,’’ it said, wondering why INEC, which is expected to be a neutral umpire in the election, would resort to actions that portray it as partisan and bereft of credibility.

APC wondered whether this was the reason why INEC had to push its REC in Osun aside to pave the way for a malleable REC, who would do the bidding of the PDP. The party challenged the INEC leadership to wade into the delay in the distribution of the PVCs in Osun, alleging that the planned disenfranchisement of APC members might be the handwork of some compromised INEC officials.

It said if INEC cannot ensure that all prospective voters in the state will get their PVCs before August 9, the electoral commission should do the needful by al-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

my campaigns with no thug or armed men. If I truly want to be leaders of my people, why will I move around to harass them with thugs?

“There must be a departure from what we have before. We want to create a sane society where development will be our focus. We want to plan for our people and create a conducive environment for economic growth,” he said.

He urged security agencies to ensure that there is a repeat of what they did in Ekiti state in Osun by providing adequate security for voters during the polls.

He said: “We all saw what happened in Ekiti State. People should be allowed to express their minds by voting for who they like. Security must be adequately beefed up for electorate to exercise their voting right.”

•PDP: no plot against anybody From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Adeleke, by hiding criminal objects in and around his Ede country home.

According to a statement by the party’s spokesperson, Kunle Oyatomi, the APC got the information of the “evil plot from usually reliable sources within the PDP.” He said the plan was meant to create an excuse for security operatives from Abuja to come and arrest the APC leader and whisk him away.

“The plan is to replace their aborted attempt to assassinate Adeleke. There is no guaranty that the man may not be assassinated after his arrest. Our source is very reliable. Nothing that had been exposed in the past through the sources

was found to be false.

“We accused them of going about buying people’s voter cards, in order to manipulate the electoral process. Already, we have evidence of over 2,000 people, real people whose cards are in the PDP’s possession with their names, addresses and telephone numbers.

“We accused the PDP of planning to destroy Aregbesola’s projects if it came to power. Omisore went to campaign in Ejigbo and promised to turn the best of Aregbesola’s schools built so far into a poultry. Within a couple of days of that statement, a huge explosion went off at the assembly hall of the school and brought it down,” he said.

The APC added that its alle-

gations against the PDP were based on credible information.

It urged the citizenry to take seriously its allegation that “the PDP intends to frame Adeleke in order to get security people from Abuja to come and take him out of circulation.”

The PDP, through its Director of Publicity, Mr. Bola Ajao, has denied the allegation, saying “only the guilty are afraid.”

The party spokesperson said the PDP has no business plotting or planning to incriminate anybody.

He said as far as the PDP is concerned, Adeleke is of no political value, maintaining that the major pre-occupation of the party was how to make its governorship candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore, emerge the winner of the August 9 election.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

9

CITYBEATS

‘Fake soldier’, others held for alleged robbery

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48-YEAR-OLD man, Sikiru Aderemi (a.k.a Papi or Commander), who has allegedly been parading himself as an Army Sergeant, has been arrested.

His four accomplices were also arrested by operatives of the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS), Lagos State Police Command.

The suspect, who resides at 48, Olowu Street, Sango in Ogun State, claimed to be attached to the Directorate of Military Intelligence (DMI) in Lagos.

He was accused of using his fake identity to dispossess his victims of their valuables.

Other suspects include: Saheed Akeem, 28, a fashion designer who hails from Ogun State, Dosson Patrick, 28, a Benin Republic national and a locally made gun merchant; Rasak Plariwaju, 37, a Kwara State-born battery charger and Jamiu Adeyemi, who hails from Ilesha in Osun State.

A source said the suspects specialised in impersonating soldiers and using military

By Ebele Boniface

uniform and identity cards to intimidate their victims before robbing them on the highways.

Following petitions by some victims, Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Umar Manko, directed the officer in charge, Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS), Abba Kyari, a Superintendent of Police (SP) to take over the case.

Kyari, it was learnt, swung into action with his team and arrested the “fake” sergeant and his accomplices.

Sikiru, who confessed being a fake sergeant, said: “One Saidi told me that there was somebody with N18million in the State House, Abuja; I told him that I would arrange my boys to collect the money. I have my identity card as an Army Sergeant attached to DMI Lagos. He also told the Police that he makes money through escorting smugglers.

Whenever I escort smuggled goods to Mile 2 from Seme, I do collect my 10 per cent.”

Man 'impersonates' Arik HE Murtala Air staff M u h a m m e d

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International Airport Police Command yesterday arrested a man for allegedly parading himself as a staff of Arik Air. Police sources hinted that the suspect had been duping unsuspecting Nigerians around the airport premises in Ikeja, adding that he is being interrogated at the domestic police station near Arik Air headquarters.

The suspect, it was learnt, is

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

helping the police with useful information that would lead to the arrest of other persons involved in such criminal activities.

Last Year, Arik Air donated a Toyota Hilux Pick-up van to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Police Command, for the improvement of security around the airport.

Group inspires teenagers

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UPPORT Bridges Initiative (SBI), a nongovernmental and nonprofit-making organisation, has inspired some teenagers in private and secondary schools in Lagos State.

It gave out educational items worth several thousands of naira to the pupils after an essay presentation and Spelling Bee competition.

The beneficiaries got packages including Laptop, IPod and Phones at the event held to mark the initiative's 9th anniversary at Isale Eko Senior Secondary School in Lagos.

The initiative is a global multi-directional resource centre, which is committed to building the potential of young

By Olatunde Odebiyi

people between ages 13 and 19.

Winner of the essay contest, Gani Yusuff, an SSS2 pupil from Dolphin Senior High School, wrote on "What I expect from our leaders in 2015 election."

Odunewu Aminat, an SSS 2 pupil from King Ado Senior High School emerged the second best and won an iPod while Akanyinja Adejoke, an SSS1 pupil from Eko-Akete Senior Grammar School, came third, winning a Samsung Galaxy phone.

The group’s Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Folasade Adetiba, said the gesture was to improve on the skills of the students in literacy, presentation and communication on a yearly basis.

Lawmaker rehabilitates O ensure availability of boreholes potable water in Eredo

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Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, has rehabilitated and equipped four community boreholes with motorised equipment and power generators.

Residents trooped out en masse to witness the commissioning of the facilities. Two of the motorised boreholes are located in OdoEgiri, one in Poka and another in Odomola community.

The lawmaker moved to upgrade the facilities,

By Wale Ajetunmobi

following complaints by resident that the hand-pumped boreholes, which were constructed under the Millennium Development Goals (MGDs) scheme.

Community and religious leaders could not hide their joy as they took delivery of the boreholes. An Odo Egiri resident, Mrs Ayo Adesanya, said the senator's gesture would alleviate their long period of suffering for potable water in the community.

Sikiru who described himself as a 1987 Mass Communication graduate from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, said he did his industrial attachment at the DMI. He said that based on his experience at the DMI as an errand boy, he recruited three boys “to make cool money.”

He said he also had some vocational studies in Interior Designs after an industrial training at the DMI. “In 2002, I met a friend, James Imada, who gave me an ID card and beret of a Sergeant.

In 2012, I met another person called Mopol Tunde through another man, Wole, at Campus Square. It was Tunde who introduced me to car

•Sikiru (middle) and his accomplices... yesterday

snatching,” he said.

While Rasak said his role was to drive his gang

members during operations, Jamiu said he was arrested by policemen who stopped and

searched his commercial bus and found ammunition on him.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

NEWS Dutse Airport gets first flight

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By Kelvin Osa Okunbor and Ahmed Ru’fai

ISTORY was made yesterday as the first commercial aircraft operated by Overland Airways touched down at the N11.5 billion Dutse International Airport in Jigawa State.

The government said the airport would be used temporarily three times weekly for flights between Abuja and Jigawa State.

He said with increased patronage, daily flights would be introduced.

Governor Sule Lamido said the first phase of the project cost N11.5billion.

He hoped that with the beginning of flights, economic activities would be boosted and agricultural produce would be easily exported.

Lamido said the terminal would be inaugurated next month

by President Goodluck Jonathan.

“We are here today to witness the first commercial flight operated by Overland Airways. We signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the management of the airline and I want to say it here that this is not an airport, but the airport.

“However, this project is one of the projects initiated by this administration to transform the Northwest with an agro-allied airport.”

The Managing Director, Overland Airways, Capt. Edward Boyo, described the airport as one of the most beautiful in the country.

Boyo said the airport would further bring development to the state and boost the economy of the region.

“The airport was designed specifically to develop unique economic opportunities for different states in the region.”

The Managing Director of National Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Ibrahim Abdulsalam, described the airport as a “masterpiece”.

11 die in Plateau attack

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From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

LEVEN persons have been killed at Zamadede, Pilgani District in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Eyewitnesses alleged that the attackers were Fulani herdsmen.

It was gathered that the gunmen struck on Sunday morning.

Sources said the attack might have occured as a result of the scramble for grazing land between Fulani herdsmen and farmers.

The victims include an expectant mother and a 45-yearold mother, who died with her seven-month-old child. Several homes were razed during the attack.

A victim, who lost two members of her family, Mrs. Baby Hosea, said on phone that the attackers killed the victims in their sleep.

The member representing Langtang North and South in the House of Representatives, Beni Lar, was worried about the attack on her constituents.

She urged the people to remain law abiding.

Yero sacks administrators

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From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

ADUNA State Governor Ramalan Yero has sacked development area administrators.

A memo by the Secretary to the State Government, Hamza Ishaq Danmahawayi, said the governor directed the area administrators to hand over to their secretaries.

The memo said: “The secretaries of the development areas are to oversee affairs of the offices of the administrators.

“The governor wishes to use this opportunity to thank the outgoing administrators of the development area committees for their service.”

Boko Haram attacks Borno community

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UNMEN suspected to be Boko Haram members invaded Dille Village in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State and opened fire on residents.

They set ablaze three churches, including the Church of Brethren in Nigeria (EYN), shops and residential buildings.

Displaced residents said the attackers stormed their community yesterday at 6am from Sambisa forest.

A source said the attackers were armed with Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), anti-aircraft guns and Rocket Propelled Launchers.

The source added that he could not give the exact number of casualties but said many were feared dead.

He also said two Air Force fighter jets have arrived Dille to repel the attacks.

Wada’s father laid to rest

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From James Azania, Lokoja

HE remains of Pa Alilu Wada Ejiga, father of Kogi State Governor Idris Wada, were buried yesterday at his home town, Odu-Ogboyaga in Dekina Local Government Area.

The late Pa Ejiga, 100, died in Ayangba, on Sunday.

He worked in the public service for over two decades as a judicial officer and was appointed Judge of the Area Court in 1958, serving at Idah, Odogwu, Dekina and Ankpa areas, until 1982, when he was appointed Judge of Upper Area Court, Makurdi. He retired at the Upper Area Court Ankpa in 1984.

Wada said he had lost an adviser and a friend.

“My father was very close to me; a very good adviser. I have never insulted my father. He was a very generous man and he was like a father to all.

“Even when we were young he looked after many children; the underprivileged, the orphans, we all grew up together.”

•Lamido flanked by the Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Nuhu Muhammadu Sanusi (left) and Capt Boyo at the airport...yesterday.

PHOTO: KELVIN OSA OKUNBOR

Shut Maiduguri Airport opened for Sheriff

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HE shut Maiduguri International Airport was opened yesterday for ex-Governor Modu Ali Sheriff’s plane to land in preparation for his defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Governor Kashim Shettima was, however, shut out following the directive of the military that no commercial aircraft would be allowed to land till September 29.

The governor and his entourage travelled by road to Kano.

The Defence Headquarters, a fortnight ago, claimed that the restriction of the facility was due to military use for the operations against Boko Haram insurgents.

The “military use” led to the denial of 286 would-be pilgrims, who were going for the lesser Hajj (Umrah),

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•Governor, entourage travel by road From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

access to the airport.

An alternative arrangement was made for the pilgrims to fly out through Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano.

But the PDP’s determination to woo Sheriff made the Federal Government to allow him to give him access to the airport.

S h e r i f f w as g i v en a waiver to land based on “orders from above”.

It was gathered that the ex-governor was provided heavy security by troops in Maiduguri.

A source said: “We learnt that there was a directive to the military and other security agencies to protect Sheriff with what is termed ‘federal might’.

“The former governor arrived at the airport at 1.32 pm aboard his private jet, 5NBMH, to the waiting hands of a garrison commander, who led troops to give him cover.

“The plane departed the airport at 2. 22pm and is expected to return today to airlift Sheriff.

“Sheriff is expected to join the PDP and lead the reelection bid of President Goodluck Jonathan in Borno State.

“Youth political groups called ECOMOG, which were associated with rival violence during the Sheriff administration, stormed the airport to welcome him.

“A campaign office, which belongs to Sheriff, was painted in white; it is expected to wear PDP col-

ours in coming days.”

The source said the governor travelled by road to Kano.

The source added: “As the airport closure was still in force, Governor Kashim Shettima yesterday embarked on a trip by road to Kano to see his elder brother. The governor’s convoy was without soldiers.

“Shettima Mohammed Shettima, the governor’s brother, was last Friday involved in an accident resulting in the death of a policeman travelling with him.

“The accident occurred 20 kilometers away from Damban in Bauchi State at about 2pm while the governor’s brother was travelling to Kano.

VC hails ASUU-LASU for calling off strike

HE Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, has praised the institution’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for calling off its nearly two months-old strike.

Prof. Obafunwa spoke through the university’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Kayode Sutton.

According to him, the management had not been insensitive to the lecturers’ strike, adding that the ASUU’s decision would complement students’ thirst to return to classes soon.

He said: “Since the inception of ASUU-LASU strike that

•SSANU awaits management’s decision

By Adegunle Olugbamila

started in May 20, I want to say the management has not rested on its oars in meeting ASUU’s demands. Initially, it was about 21 demands by ASUU on which members declared a trade dispute with LASU. Management was able to prune down the demands to seven and after much compromise, arrived at three, which eventually became the core issues ASUU eventually declared a strike.

“But the management has said it repeatedly that the three

issues are not what it can handle, and that it needs the government to come in.

“The issues involved school fees, which government recently reviewed downward from between 34 to 60 per cent. The others are Universities Miscellaneous Act and the “No Vacancy; No promotion,” which we have always believed was the coinage of the unions. As I speak to you today, the least paying student in LASU pays N76, 250 and the highest paying student who happens to be a Direct Entry student in College

of Medicine or in Faculty of Engineering pays N115.000.”

Following the review of the school fees and the ASUU resolution to return to work, Sutton said: “It simply means peace has returned to LASU.” Chairman of the SSANU LASU chapter, Comrade Saheed Oseni, said the management met with the union on Friday and discussions were yet to be concluded.

“But another meeting is holding tomorrow (today).

We are hopeful that council will look into our demands and act accordingly,” he said.

taking advantage of the fewer number of delegates from the North and using voice vote to put them at the short end of the lever.

“This is out of order because the order allows for only consensus or 70 per cent in case of division that calls for vote.

“Northern delegates believe issues of national importance, like local government and creation of states as well as resource control should not be by voice vote. Nigerians believe local government is the closest to them.

“And that has been the reasons why there has been the clamour for removal of the provision of Joint Account in order to free them from shackles of state governments and give them freedom to deliver on the promise of democracy.

“To now recommend removal of local government as third tier of government and their removal from access to the Federation Account and place their creation in the exclusive reserve of state governments should not be effected by mere voice.”

Our grouse about conference, by northern delegates

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O R T H E R N delegates to the National Conference said yesterday that the leadership was manipulating the order of proceedings to favour a section of the country.

It said voice vote was not supposed to be used to adopt controversial positions, which require voting.

Operating under the Northern Delegates Forum, the delegates expressed surprise that a minority report that was ruled out of order at the conference plenary is beginning to gain the mo-

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

mentum at the conference.

The northern delegates threatened to pull out of the conference, if things were not done the right way due, forcing the conference to adjourn abruptly Their spokesman, Anthony Sani, told The Nation that the conference was taking advantage of the fewer number of delegates from the North and using voice vote to purge them.

He said: “The position of the Northern Delegates Forum is that the conference is

BUSINESS

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

11 ‘Europe is a good market for gas. Incidentally, Belgium has important terminals such as the Port of Antwerp through which Nigeria hopes to get its gas to the rest of Europe. We’ll start marketing our abundant gas resources to Europe,’ •Group Managing Director, NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu

Bill to end ‘casualisation’ passes second reading

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• From left: Executive Director,Southsouth/Southeast, Skye Bank Plc, Mrs. Ibiye Ekong; Divisional Head, Line of Finance, Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Prvate Sector (ICD), Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo; Deputy Managing Director, Mrs Amaka Onwughalu; and Principal Layer, ICD, Saani Ibrahim, during ICD team’s visit to Skye Bank in Lagos ... yesterday.

Jonathan inaugurates N18b Olam rice mill P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday inau gurated the N18 billion Olam Nigeria Integrated Rice Mill.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said the commissioning of the rice mill is a reflection of the commitment of his administration to attain self-sufficiency in rice production by next year.

The president spoke in Rukubi, Doma Local Government Area, Nasarawa State.

According to him, Nigeria expects to surpass the 20 million metric tonnes of rice by the end of this year.

He said: “We must continue working towards becoming the largest producers and exporters of food. With our vast land, Nigeria has no business becoming major a importer of food.”

Jonathan also said his administration was committed to reducing the food import bill of the country.

The rresident said the goal of the country is to become a net exporter of rice within five years.

He said: “We have the potential to produce rice locally.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$117.4/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,396.9/troy Sugar -$163/lb MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE -N11.4 trillion JSE -Z5.112trillion NYSE -$10.84 trillion LSE -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -8% Treasury Bills -10.58%(91d) Maximum lending -30% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -1% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $45b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

• ‘Nigeria to be self-sufficient in food production’ From Frank Ikpefan, Lafia

If we must have to eat rice, we must produce more. Our commitment is to reduce our food import bill.

“Nigeria must be self-sufficient in food production. Large scale farmers will be encouraged to boost food productions.

“The private sector is responding strongly to our rice policy as the number of rice mills has grown from just one three years ago to 18 today.

“Our goal of making Nigeria a net exporter of rice will be

achieved faster by encouraging large commercial farms that will complement our small scale farmers. Large mechanised rice farms like Olam’s 6,000 hectares farm will not only boost food production but also provide significant opportunities for jobs in rural areas.

These mills are producing high quality local rice that meets international standards and competes well with imported rice.”

Olam’s Managing Director for Africa and Middle East, Venkataramani Srivathsan, said the integrated rice mill

CBN pensioners urge Emefelie to reverse 15 % slash

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ENTRAL Bank of Ni geria’s (CBN) pen sioners have urged the Governor, Godwin Emefelie, to reverse the 15 per cent reduction in their monthly pensions.

They said the arbitrary deduction applied to 1,604 of them that retired before June 1, 2000, urging that Emefiele should restore their pension to what it was from July 2011 to February this year.

They have therefore called for a refund of the total deductions.

“With your expected gracious intervention, we are hopeful that we are going to start receiving our normal pension as from the end of this month – July 2014, or perhaps, not later than from August this year,” they said.

In a statement by the Concerned CBN Pensioners, signed

by Wale Adebayo and Felix Obi, the former workers explained that on February 26 this year, over 1,600 of them received alerts from their bankers notifying them the slash.

The statement read: “Initially, we thought it was a mis-

By Joseph Jibueze

take that would be corrected the next month or shortly thereafter. But when we enquired from some top officers of the CBN in Abuja about the reason for this unprecedented, arbitrary and ill-advised action, we were surprisingly told that CBN had to slash our pensions because we were being overpaid since July 2011.

“The truth is that there was no mistake in the calculation of the pension we have been receiving as from July 2011 to January 2014 (33 months).

Rather, the slash was done in bad faith.

“It was clearly a punitive, vindictive and illegal action calculated to intimidate and arm twist us into abandoning our legitimate right of seeking redress in court for the enforcement of court orders in respect of the long-lingering issue of an all-inclusive (for all the 5,000 CBN pensioners) and full harmonisation of pension for those pensioners whose pensions were slightly enhanced in July 2011, which we stoutly resist.”

demonstrates how large -scale commercial farms can work with smallholder to help advance Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda.

According to him, it underlines the country’s ability to grow high quality, nutritious rice that can enhance domestic food security by providing an alternative to imports.

LABOUR Act Amend ment Bill passed through second reading yesterday in the House of Representatives.

The bill seeks to amend the Labour Act, 2004 to provide a time frame for the regularisation of casual or temporary employment to permanent status by all employers of labour in the country.

Hon. Emmanuel Jime (APC-Benue), who sponsored of the bill which also seeks to ensure that casual workers are given permanent status after two years, said the bill, if passed, would ensure that casual workers get permanent employment after a time frame.

While leading the debate on the general principle of the bill, Jime said the bill was meant to address the rising incidence of casualisation (short term jobs) of workers in the country, According to him, there are two categories of workers; short and permanent workers adding that the amendment is seeking to address the plight of the

From Victor Oluwasegun, Abuja

short term workers.

He said: “There is a clear violation of the rights of these casual workers, since they are not entitled to full benefits. This amendment has opened up the protection of the Nigerian workers by way of a legal backing.”

He urged his colleagues to support the bill, saying it is for the interest of all the workers.

Hon. Nkiruka Onyejiocha (PDP-Abia), supported the bill. She said the bill would enable workers, particularly the casual workers, to get full employment benefits, adding that the bill is for the protection of the workers.

The bill scaled second reading despite opposition

by Hon. Francis Enekorogh a(PDP-Delta), who argued that it could “create series of problems than solving it.”

It was subsequently referred to the Committee on Labour and Productivity for more input by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, who presided.

12

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

BUSINESS NEWS

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SON confiscates N200m substandard handsets

HE Standards Organisa tion of Nigeria (SON) has raided the popular Lagos Computer Village, Ikeja where it confiscated suspected substandard telephone handsets worth over N200 million.

According to the its Head of Intelligence and Compliance Directorate, Bede Obayi, who spoke after the operations, the exercise was diligently carried as a result of its surveillance team reports which monitors products displayed for sale in all the markets across the country.

He said a handset dealer at the market,Trinity Technologies and Communication Ltd came to SON and registered one H-Mobile phone in his name only for the standard setting agency to discover that the company had embarked on the importation of different brands

By Toba Agboola

of handset other than the HMobile he registered.

Obayi said the company also imported large quantity of unbranded handsets into the country and kept its self busy labelling them with popular brands in the market thereby deceiving the unsuspecting innocent buyers.

The managing director of the company who apparently got wind of SON’s presence in his shop ran awayand refused to come and witness the operation. However, two of his workers were apprehended and are helping SON and the police in locating his warehouse where it was believed has stock of the fake handsets as he is a big time distributor of the product.

However, Obayi expressed shock at the attitude of the market leaders who instigated their

boys to fight SON officials and the police with dangerous weapons during which some of its vehicles were destroyed.

He said: “Our operation in the market was very smooth as our target was only in Trinity Technologies and Communication Ltd shop and we requested other traders who converged around us to go and be doing their businesses. Nobody was molested or insulted by our men nor our police as we consulted with the police in charge of the market and they provided us with a place to park our vehicles. Even their market leaders were also informed about our operation in the market as SON and market associations in major markets across the country have been collaborating to rid markets of fake and substandard goods.

• From left: Head, Strategic Relations & Corporate Affairs, Temasek of Singapore, Ms. Cheo Hock Kuan and Managing Director & CEO, Nigeria Sovereign InvestmentAuthority (NSIA) Mr. Uche Orji, during the former’s business visit.

Institute expresses confidence in economy

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HE Institute of Busi ness Development said promoting an enabling business environment is key to improving economic performance.

Leading a delegation to the Headquarters of Vintage Press, Publishers of The Nation Newspapers, in Lagos, its Vice President, Mr Adewale Talabi said the country has huge potential for growth, adding that there are also hurdles to overcome in triggering the growth process.

Developing infrastructure bases, particularly power, strengthening institutional capacities, and promoting strategic and proactive policies, he said are urgently needed .

He noted, however, that there are increasing investors’ confidence in the economy, driven by multinational and local businesses that see still Nigeria as an investment destinations in Africa.

By Daniel Essiet

Nigeria, according to him, stands out not only for its positive risk rating, but also because of the economy size and ongoing investments.

He added that the reward for investors is attractive, offering a stable business environment and potential for growth.

Talabi said the institute was impressed with the efforts of the Federal Government to create a conducive environment to attract more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), adding that this will led to employment creation.

While acknowledging that the economy was passing through painful internal crises, he maintained that businesses need to be alive to explore growth opportunities it offers, adding that in many sectors, window of opportunities still remain open for new businesses and competition is intensifying.

The Vice President stressed the need to give more encouragement to the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), adding that SMEs are the backbone of the economy and there is a need to address their concerns urgently basis to ensure a conducive business environment for them to operate.

Right now, he indicated that SMEs need to be offered in terms of access to finance, and modifications in regulation, can drive long term growth and solidify the role of the nation in global commerce.

Talabi urged the government to use the present momentum generated by ongoing reforms to shape an environment conducive to long-term growth, adding that this is vital in re-establishing the nation’s position as one of the leading business centres.

Olawepo urges more power sector investment

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HAIRMAN of Bresson AS Energy, Gbenga Olawepo, has called for more private sector investment in the nation’s power sector.

He said President Goodluck Jonathan’s commitment to the achievement of the power reform programme should serve as incentive for the renewed interest.

The industry captain who spoke at the groundbreaking

ceremony of the 90megawatts (Mw) Magboro power plant being built by his firm highlighted the importance of adequate power supply in the evolution and sustenance of any economy.

“Nigeria has emerged as the largest economy on the African continent. The implication of this is that the economy needs no interruption in terms of growth, to enable the system reap from multipliers and a continued stimulation. An un-

interrupted power supply is the key, and besides the government, the private sector also has to be active,” he said.

He said about $10 million had been spent on the Magboro power plant. “The ultimate goal of the firm is to deliver affordable, cleaner and efficient energy using environmentally friendly technologies tailored to meet the needs of our customers and help our people to become energy sufficient,” he said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorsed the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents in case of any emergency on the metropolitan Roads. Accordingly, the public may easily contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

157TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO. incerity of purpose and steadfast commitment to deliver on campaign promises reiterated in the inaugural speech delivered by Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE on 29th May, 2011, gingered and propelled the momentum and vigour to the

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present administration to perform beyond the expectations inherent in the cardinal resolutions to transform Kano State for the better.

Pursuant to the above today Wednesday 9th July, 2014 (12th Ramadan, 1435 AH) the Kano State Executive Council held its one hundred and fifty seventh (157th) sitting under the Chairmanship of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE during which eleven (11) MDAs submitted fifty two (52) memoranda for deliberation by Council.

Twenty five (25) of the tabled memoranda were approved for execution with an expenditure of Four Hundred and Six Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Eleven Naira, Forty Kobo (N406,968,711.40) covering twenty three (23) projects while the remaining two (2) were on policy issues. Thus; 1. OFFICE OFTHE SECRETARYTO THE STATE GOVERNMENT The Secretary to the State Government submitted fifteen (14) memoranda on behalf of the Chairman (Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE) and some MDAs for deliberation

by Council. Four (4) of them were approved for execution as follows; a) Request for Funds to Enable Transportation of Students on Exchange Programme from Kano State to their Home States:The Secretary to the State Government endorsed the cited routine request from the Ministry of Education and presented it to Council for consideration. The aggregate sum of N3,897,300.00 was requested for release by Council for the stated purpose according to the following summary; SN Description Amount (N) i. Transportation of 767 other States students from GSS Karaye and GGC Kachako to Rumfa.

306,800.00 ii. Transportation of 929 other States students including 162 SAS students. 1,549,300.00 iii. Meal allowances for 929 students. 185,800.00 iv. Transporting of 630 State Indigenous Students back to their respective schools after holidays for the first (1st) term 2014/2015 session.

1,063,600.00 v. Transportation of 767 students of the 18 Northern States from Gidan Murtala to GSS Karaye and GGC Kachako after third (3rd) term holiday. 306,800.00 vi. DTA for 20 teachers to escort them N7,000.00 140,000.00 vii. Payment of 2012 and 2013 annual contribution of SEP Secretariat Kaduna. 300,000.00 viii. Cost of participation in the 2014 SEP post inspection meeting.

45,000.00 Total = N3,897,300.00.

Council acknowledged the request as a routine requirement and approved its execution. b) Presentation and Request for Funds to Enable Payment of National Examination Registration in Respect of Health Information Technician Students, School of Health Technology, Kano:The Kano State Ministry of Health submitted the cited request which was endorsed by the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration.

Council was politely notified that, the School of Health Technology offers a course on Health Information Technology which was accredited by the Health Officers Registration Board of Nigeria to train Health Information Technicians since the year 2006. So far, fifty two (52) students graduated from the course this year and are required to attend the National Examination conducted by the Board.

Details of three (3) items required costed to the tune of N2,984,400.00 were presented to Council for consideration and granting of approval for release.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested. c) Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Monthly Sitting Allowances to Seven (7) Members of the Standing Committee on Zawachiki Inland Dry Port (ICD) (June, 2013 to April, 2014):Contents of this memorandum substantiated to Council that, the cited request was instigated by the fact the last time the Committee in question received its statutory sitting allowances was in the month of May, 2013 (eleven (11) months ago). Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of the aggregate sum of N2,250,000.00 to cover for the sitting allowances for the seven (7) - Member Committee for a period of twelve (12) months.

Approval was granted by Council as requested in consideration of the statutory nature of the request. d) Request for Funds to Enable Payment for Six (6) Months (January - June, 2014) to Members of the Taskforce on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs as well as the Operational and Logistics Requirements of the Mobile Magistrate Court Attached:The Secretary to the State Government endorsed and presented the cited request for consideration by Council on behalf of the Ministry of Health.

Activities and achievements recorded by this Taskforce Committee were considered commendable by Council as approval was granted for the release of the aggregate sum of N7,484,800.00 for the following two (2) purposes; i. Operational funds = N1,004,800.00. ii. Allowances for Mobile Court and other Staff attached to the Committee = N6,480,000.00.

Total = N7,484,800.00.

Council approved the release of the requested sum of N7,484,800.00 to the Secretary to the State Government for the stated purpose.

2. OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF CIVIL SERVICE Two (2) of the five (5) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from the Office of the Head of Civil Service were approved for executive as follows; a) Request for Funds to Enable Sponsorship of Five (5) Nurses to Study Post Basic Psychiatric Nursing (2014/2015 Session) at Federal School of Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso Psychiatric Nursing Kware, Sokoto State:The Head of Civil Service in his statutory role as custodian to the capacity building and professional training for all personnel in the Civil Service submitted the cited request for consideration

by Council.

Essentially, the course was adjudged relevant and in agreement with the policy of the present administration to provide for the Health Sectors in all ramifications.

Council approved for the release of the aggregate sum of N1,505,000.00 to cover the four (4) items required by each of the five (5) Students for the course. b) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Augment the Monthly Personnel Cost of the Kano State High Court of Justice:The need to provide additional manpower to man the newly established Courts in Kano State instigated the submission of the cited request from the State Ministry of Justice, endorsed by the Head of Civil Service and presented to Council for consideration.

Council was notified, through contents of this memorandum that, the State Judiciary do not draw their salaries from the State Payroll, rather they receive monthly grant directly from the Ministry of Finance to settle their personnel emoluments.

Council was requested to approve for the release of the sum of N3,423,066.13 monthly to the State Judiciary as augmentation to its personnel cost.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

3. MINISTRYOFHIGHER EDUCATION Three (3) of the seven (7) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry for Higher Education which were approved for execution as follows; a) Request for Funds from College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies (CARS) for Free Education, IJMB 2014/2015 Registration, Excursion and Verification of Results for Students of the College:The Kano State College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies submitted the cited request which was endorsed and presented to Council for consideration. Details on the requirements for free education, IJMB 2014/2015 (ABU Zaria) registration, excursion and verification of results for the students of the College were presented along with the financial implications to the tune of N28,618,000.00 which was requested for release by Council.

Relevance of the request prompted Council to approve the release of the trimmed down sum of N21,830,000.00 to the Ministry of Higher Education for onward payment to CARS for the stated purpose. b) Request for Funds to Enable Furnishing and Provision of Fittings at the Newly Constructed Administrative Block and Staff Office Complex at College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies, Kano:The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Higher Education notified Council, through contents of this memorandum that, the three (3) approved Capital Projects at College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies were completed to required standard. They include; i. Construction of e-library (phase I). ii. Construction of administration block. iii. Construction of staff Office Complex.

Hence the need for the provision of furniture and general fittings at the administrative block and staff office complex which was assessed to the tune of N12,423,000.00.

Council acknowledged the request as congruent with the laudable policy of the present administration to provide for education in all ramifications and at all levels. The release of the sum of N12,423,000.00 was approved to the Ministry for Higher Education to enable execution of the stated project at College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies. c) Request for Funds to Enable Redemption of Pledge by the State Government for an Award of Scholarship to Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa:Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa was the overall winner at the International Qur'anic Recitation Competition (Musabaqah) held in Saudi Arabia. The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Higher Education submitted the cited request to Council for the fulfillment to its pledge and approval granted at its sitting of 26th February, 2014 to sponsor Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa to pursue M Sc. Degree in Biochemistry at Bayero University, Kano.

The admission letter of Abubakar for the M Sc. Programme was presented to Council for consideration along with the financial commitments in the total sum of N1,056,000.00.

As such, Council was requested to approve the release of the sum of N1,056,000.00to enable Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa pursue the M Sc. Biochemistry course at Bayero University, Kano.

Council acknowledged and approved the release of the sum of N850,000.00 to Gwani Kabiru

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014 Abubakar Musa as pledged by the Kano State Government.

4. MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSINGAND TRANSPORT This Ministry submitted fourteen (14) memoranda for deliberation by Council. Ten (10) of them were approved for execution as follows; o Five (5) of the approved memoranda from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport were on the Installation of Street Lights along one road or the other for varying distances to be executed by the Taskforce Committee on the Installation/Repairs/Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights. They include the following; a) Magajin Rumfa Road (1.5KM) - N25,988,494.50. b) New Race Course Road Off Alu Avenue (0.7KM) - N9,696,648.00. c) Along SSS Headquarters and Giginyu Quarters - N70,069,507.10. d) Along Miller Road (2.5KM) - N59,812,737.30. e) Walkways/Garden Lighting Installation (Phase II) - N15,462,062.50. f) Request for Funds to Enable Continuation of Enforcement of Street Decongestion and Illegal Motor Parks in Metropolitan Kano:The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport notified Council of the achievements recorded by KAROTA in the enforcement of Traffic Rules and Regulations as well as decongesting the roads in Kano Metropolis. The general public appreciates the effort which instigated the submission of the cited request to enable extension of the exercise for yet another three (3) months (July - September, 2014).

Details on the eleven (11) items required were presented to Council for consideration along with the financial implications to the tune of N11,403,960.00 which was requested for release to enable extension of the stated exercise for another three (3) months (July - September, 2014).

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the trimmed down sum of N10,000,000.00 for the stated purpose. g) Request for Funds to Enable Procurement of Operational Rain - Coats for 378 KAROTA Personnel:The cited request was submitted cognizant of the prevailing rainy season and the nature of operations of the KAROTA Personnel which is characteristically outdoors irrespective of the season.

Nevertheless, protective rain - coats are required by 378 KAROTA Personnel quoted at the most responsive Contract sum of N2,000.00 per unit totaling the aggregate sum of N756,000.00 for the 378 KAROTA Personnel which was requested for release for the stated purpose.

Council approved as requested. h) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Five (5) Additional Operational Vehicles (Pick Up Vans) to KAROTA:Operations of KAROTA involve prompt movement from one point to another which necessitates usage of serviceable and agile motor vehicles of which the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport recommended the procurement of five (5) serviceable second hand Pick - Up Vans at the unit cost of N3,450,000.00 totaling N17,250,000.00 for the five (5) which was requested for release for the stated purpose.

Council appraised the request and approved the release of the sum of N6,950,000.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to process the procurement/allocation of one (1) New FordRanger to KAROTA as additional operational vehicle. i) Presentation of Report on the Fifty Seven (57) Kwankwasiyya Girl - Child Initiative Buses under KAROTA Management:The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport reminded Council, through contents of this memorandum, of the Kano State Government transfer of the management of the Kwankwasiyya Girl - Child Initiative Buses from the Ministry of Education to KAROTA. KAROTA assessed the condition of the buses and discovered many of them require repairs which necessitated the request for the release of the sum of N5,000,000.00 by Council. Approval was granted and N3,758,550.00 was judiciously utilized for the purpose leaving a balance of N1,241,450.00. Details were presented to Council for consideration. Based on these, the following two (2) prayers were forwarded to Council for consideration; i. Council approved the recruitment of eighty (80) graduates from the Kano State Driving School for the Kwankwasiyya Girl - Child Initiative Buses. ii. Council approved KAROTA to take over the fuelling of the buses and collection of fees by issuance of tickets to the students/passengers. j) Request for Funds to Enable Renovation of Miller Road Bompai, Nassarawa LGCA:Contents of this memorandum presented Miller Road in Bompai area of Nassarawa LGCA as an important link to many high capacity roads such as Sani Marshal Road, Mission Road, Murtala Muhammad Way etc.

In fact, Miller Road helps in decongesting high volume vehicular traffic along nearby major roads. Renovation of the road is of paramount importance which was assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N98,237,060.00 which was requested for release by Council for the stated purpose.

Council appraised the request and approved the release of the sum of N98,237,060.00 for the execution of the stated project on Contractual Arrangement to be supervised by the Kano State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport.

5. MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, INTERNALAFFAIRS, YOUTHS, SPORTSAND CULTURE The Ministry submitted five (5)memoranda for deliberation by Council. Two (2) were approved for execution as follows; a) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Cash Gift to Two (2) Additional Players of the Kano Pillars Football Club:Contents of this memorandum applauded the Kano State Government of its magnanimity in donating gifts to members of the Kano Pillars Football Club and their Officials which comprised motor cars and cash prizes.

Inadvertently, two (2) of the players were omitted in the cash donation of N700,000.00 each which total up to the aggregate sum of N1,400,000.00 which was requested for release by Council for onward payment to the two (2) players. Details were presented to Council for consideration.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested. b) Presentation and Request for Funds to Redeem Pledge of Cash Gift of N500,000.00 and A Brand New 36 - Seater Bus to the Kano Pillars Football Club Fans':The Kano Pillars Fans' Club was presented as a reliable motivator for the glorious performance of the Kano Pillars Football Club at home and away matches to which the State Government

15 pledged to donate a brand new 36 - Seater Bus and N500,000.00 cash for their activities.

Council acknowledged the presentation and approved as follows; i. The sum of N500,000.00 to be released to the Kano Pillars Football Club Fans' Club in support of their activities. ii. The Office of the Secretary to the State Government to process the procurement/allocation of one (1) unit of brand new 36 - Seater Bus to the Kano Pillars Football Club Fans' Club at the sum of N16,390,000.00.

6. MINISTRY OF LANDAND PHYSICALPLANNING The memorandum submitted for deliberation by Council from this Ministry was approved for execution. Thus; Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Compensation for Fourteen (14) Items Affected by the Dualization of Hadejia Road Junction to Dakata Police Station to Kwanar Inusawa Road:The cited project is among the commendable efforts of the present administration and is in earnest progress which affects fourteen (14) structures assessed for compensation to the tune of the aggregate sum of N25,567,160.00 which was requested for release by Council to effect payment of the compensation for the fourteen (14) structures.

To enable smooth progress of the project to its completion on schedule, Council approved the release of the sum of N25,567,160.00 to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning for the stated purpose.

7. MINISTRY OFWOMENAFFAIRSAND SOCIALDEVELOPMENT Request for Funds to Empower 129 Graduates of Kano Reformatory Institute, Kiru:Triumphant of the successful completion of 129 batches 1, 2 and 3 graduates of the Kano Reformatory Institute, Kiru sent to ITF Skills Acquisition Center, Kano and KEDI Dawakin Tofa, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development submitted the cited request for consideration by Council.

To further empower them, the 129 graduates were segmented into six (6) clusters (grouping by trades) with assistance from the Skill Acquisition Center. The trades include Welding, Carpentry, Computer, POP, Tailoring and Building. The estimate cost of equipment and rent was put at N7,716,500.00 which was requested for release by Council to enable execution of the stated purpose though some of the graduates indicated interest for other viable engagements elsewhere especially Government Organizations such as KAROTA, Informatics Institute, Corporate Security Institute etc.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the trimmed down sum of N7,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for the stated purpose in line with the empowerment policy of the present administration.

8. MINISTRYOFRURALAND COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT Request for Funds to Enable Procurement and Replacement of 500KVA, 33.0415KV Electricity Transformer at the Armed Forces Specialist Hospital, Ashton Road, Kano:Authorities at the Armed Forces Specialist Hospital Submitted the cited request which was endorsed by the Kano State Ministry of Rural and Community Development, presented to Council for consideration.

The project was assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N4,144,522.00 which was requested for release by Council to enable the Kano State Rural Electrification Board execute the project.

Council acknowledged the request and approved as requested.

10. MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY, COOPERATIVESAND TOURISM Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Empowerment Packages for the Trained Entrepreneurs at the Common Facility Center (CFC) for Leather Products Processing, Sharada:Cognizant of the empowerment policy of the present administration, the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Tourism submitted the cited request for consideration by Council.

Council acknowledged the request and approved for the release of the aggregate sum of N5,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Tourism for the stated purpose.

UPDATE ONACTIVITIES OFTHE 157TH EXCO SITTING 1. PASSING OUT PARADE (POP) AND CONFERMENT OF COMMISSION ON 197 DIRECT SHORT SERVICE CADETS (DSSC) INTO THE NIGERIANARMYAT JAJI CANTONMENTAND COMMISSIONING OF 140 CADETS FROM THE NIGERIAN AIRFORCE BASE KADUNA Council acknowledged the successful passing out parade of 197 Direct short service cadets (DSC) men amongst which six (6) are indigenous to Kano State who were commissioned into the Nigerian Army with the Rank of full Lieutenants at Jaji Cantonment on Saturday5thJuly, 2014.

Accordingly, Council noted another commissioning ceremony of 140 service cadets from the Nigerian Air Force Base Kaduna where four (4) of them are indigenes of Kano State.

2. SIGNINGOFMOU BETWEENTHE KANO STATE GOVERNMENTANDTHE FRENCH GOVERNMENT ON THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF FRENCH LANGUAGE IN THE STATE Council acknowledged the signing of an Agreement between Kano State Government and the Government of France on Monday7thJuly, 2014 by the Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE and the French Ambassador in Nigeria where the agreement will help towards the development of French Language across Secondary Schools in the State.

3. FLAG - OFF CEREMONY FOR THE RECRUITMENT OF 1000ADDITIONAL TEACHERS, LABORATORY & LIBRARYASSISTANTS AND COMPUTER DATA ANALYSTS Council noted the flag off ceremony on Tuesday8thJuly, 2014 at the Government House for the recruitment of 1000 additional teachers, Laboratory and Library Assistants and other Computer data analyst. During the ceremony, the new employers were presented with their letter of offer of appointment to teach at 100 secondary schools, forty four (44) new senior Islamic secondary schools and twenty two (22) technical colleges across the State.

Signed: Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports andCulture www.kn.gov.ng/new

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TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS

TRANSPORTATION

E-mail: ynotaderibigbe@gmail.com

It took the Nigerian Navy’s intervention last week to bring sanity to the Apapa expressway that has been long overtaken by tanker drivers. JUDE ISIGUZO and PRECIOUS IGBOWELUNDU report.

Nightmare continues on Apapa-Oshodi road W ITH 9,100 roads, Lagos is expected to enjoy free traffic. But this is not so because many of the roads are bad. Motorists and commuters agonise daily plying the roads.

Traffic around Apapa, which houses the ports, is a motorist’s hell. Traffic is usually at standstill for hours, with motorists inhaling noxious fumes from heavy duty trucks and tankers.

This is why many jubilated last Thursday when the Nigeria Navy cleared the area of traffic bottlenecks in an all-night operation.

With reporters in tow, the naval men moved from one end of the road to the other, removing obstacles to free flow of traffic.

Motorists caught in the traffic by 12pm watched as the naval men worked.

Some of the truck and tanker drivers forced off the road poured invectives on the government for “deriving joy from the poor's anguish.”

Tankers and trucks, blocked the road such that motorcycles or tricycles could not pass. Many of the truck drivers abandoned their vehicles to their conductors to sleep on make-shift beds and pillars beside the road.

The Nation observed that the closure of the Mile2-Apapa, which is under repairs, has forced most motorists to take the Ijora axis as an alternative, but that route has not eased the traffic.

Many factors are responsible for the gridlock. There are drivers’ indiscipline; extortion by law enforcement agencies and inefficiency by the concessionaire.

The blame game The obviously infuriated truck and tanker drivers, who had been on the road for days, lamented that their plight is worsened by the absence of adequate parking spaces.

A truck driver Mr. Daniel Ejiofor said: “ I have been a driver on this route for over 20 years and all these places with giant structures and tankfarms used to be parking spaces. They were all sold off under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“Now, the situation is even worse because security agencies allow trucks and tankers that have no business here to park on

(FERMA) to prosecute errant drivers, many have dismissed them.

People's lack of trust in the agencies may not be out of place, especially because both federal and state governments have over the years, made several promises on the roads that were not fulfilled – no thanks to the “powers that be” who own businesses that attract these trucks and tankers. Moreover, the government has not kept its promise that transportation of cargoes from the ports would be done by railway.

What can be done?

• Typical gridlock on Mobil road Apapa. Inset, Commodore Uwadiae (right) and Capt. J.N. Mamman

PHOTO:PRECIOUS IGBOWELUNDU

Tanker drivers allay strike fears

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HE Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) union of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has denied any impending industrial action to draw attention to the poor state of the Apapa-Oshodi expressway especially around the tank farms within the area.

It said last Friday, that it is constrained because of the negative impact of such action on Nigerians.

In a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer Mr. Atanda Adebayo, the PTD said: “Despite the hardship the bad condition of the roads is causing our members, the union is constrained about taking any action that will have negative effect on the citizens.”

He appealed to the Federal authorities to expedite action on the roads to make sure that it becomes motorable

in the shortest possible time.

The union said it is willing to take all tankers off the road to enable the contractors work.

“The union is ready to work with the Federal Government by ensuring that all trucks on the road are evacuated if it would assist them complete the job on time. This option will be considered if an agreement is reached between the Federal Ministry of Works and our leaders, “ the statement noted.

On the one week ultimatum given by the Lagos State Governor Mr. Babatunde Fashola to sanitise Creek road, the union said it will comply as a law abiding citizen.

The drivers’ however observed that the ultimatum “has nothing to do with the Mile 2 traffic, but the Creek road gridlock.”

He said though the governor had blamed the tanker drivers for the gridlock on Mile 2, he said the delay in fixing the road is blamed on its being a federal road.

the road and scout for customers after collecting between N500 and N2,000 from them.

“When these drivers now park, they leave their conductors in the vehicle and go in search of clients.

So, they (security agencies) are further compounding the problem for us here. To make matters worse, the terminal operators are also guilty,” a driver who craved anonymity said.

A business woman, Mrs Nonye

Ifeanyichukwu, said: “The effects of the traffic snarl are encompassing; loss of manpower and time.

To beat traffic, we no longer sleep. This is because we get home as late as 1am or 2am and leave for business by 3am. Before, we get home around 10pm and leave for business around 4am but now, it is something else.

“I had to boycott the Mile 2 axis for Western Avenue and now the tankers as well as other motorists

now follow suite.”

Motorists are enjoying the naval men’s intervention. All through the weekend, movement on the road was hazzle free, leaving many to wonder how long they would enjoy such luxury before they return to the gridlock.

Despite the recent pledge by the Federal Roads Committee on Surveillance and Action against Road Abuse (FERCSARA) and Federal Road Maintenance Agency

• Atanda

Motorists suggested that the government should develop a safer water transportation, so that most people who live in that area can use the waterways and leave the road for the heavy duty vehicles until a more permanent solution is provided.

The Commander, NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Ovensenri Uwadiae, after a meeting with other stakeholders, advised the concessionaires (terminal operators) to incident their activities for each day and ensure that they run schedules that would allow the vehicles come in only when they are supposed to.

“There is need for a multi-level approach, including the education of the drivers, because they need to know the situation does not favour them since they end up being in a particular position for hours without achieving anything.

“We are equally appealing to tankfarm owners and concessionaires operating in the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) to work out modalities that will see vehicles move in batches to the port and tankfarms.

“Instead of this current situation where all vehicles including those without any business move to the port to scout for clients. That cannot help us because the spaces are not there for them to park and they end up blocking roads.

“There should be proper schedule of vehicles coming to the port to either discharge or load cargos.

Timings should be worked out for the vehicles to indicate the time and where they are to come so that the port will be ready to take them as they move in and save us this chaotic situation we are in.

Uwadiae said the operation will be sustained round the clock until sanity returns to the road. “We will only allow those who have cargos to drop or pick them.

Those who do not have proof that they have business in Apapa should either remain at the park provided for them or at LagosIbadan Expressway,” the Commander said.

Vehicle owners’, operators’ accreditation still free, says Opeifa

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HE ongoing accreditation of commercial vehicle owners and operators is still free, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation Mr. Kayode Opeifa has said.

Opeifa while speaking in his Ikeja office, said though the accreditation ought to have come at a fee to those who are just complying, the payment was waived to enable more operators take part in the exercise.

He said the government embarked on the exercise first, to generate an authentic database of all commercial vehicles and operators,

By Adeyinka Aderibigbe

create a platform for improved service delivery and establish a safe and secure public transport system that can be trusted by all commuters.

Opeifa said the exercise which ought to have lasted for only two months has been ongoing in the last eight months as part of government’s commitment to ensure that the sector is made safe.

He said: “Those registering after the commencement of the policy

on July 1, ought to have paid for the documentation, but the exercise is being carried out free of charge by the Vehicle Inspection Services (VIS) and the state’s Drivers Institute (LASDRI)’’.

Opeifa lamented that the low response by owners and operators is affecting the full implementation of the state public transportation management system that is to lead to improved efficiency and effectiveness of public transport, leading to upscale in economic growth, job and wealth creation and the promotion of a safe, reliable, effi-

cient, sustainable and secure public transport system.

Giving a breakdown of compliance to the new policy, the Transport Commissioner said “only 944 commercial mass transit buses; 13, 839 commercial buses, 7,092 commercial taxis, 2,194 commercial cabs (Kabu-kabu); 221 car hire vehicles and 2,169 tricycles, totaling 26,459 automotives have so far registered with more than an estimated 30,000 operators yet to comply.

He praised the leadership of the various transport unions; especially the National Union of Road Trans-

port Workers (NURTW) and the Taxi Co-operatives for their co-operation and support, and urged the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and the Tricycle Operators to emulate the NURTW and Taxi Co-operatives by mobilising their members to participate en-masse in the exercise in the drive to have a dependable, predictable, reliable and sustainable transport system that would ensure good return on their investment and would also earn dignity, recognition and respect from the society.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

17

THE NATION

BUSINESS MARITIME

e-mail: maritime@thenationonlineng.net

Manufacturers’ cargoes trapped at Lagos ports S

OME manufacturing firms are finding it tough at the Lagos ports.

Their goods have been trapped because of the traffic gridlock on the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway and the delay in moving their trucks to the ports, The Nation has learnt.

A clearing agent close to the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Mr Rasak Balogun said goods worth millions of naira belonging to five companies are trapped at the Tin Can Island and Apapa ports.

The delay, he said, has “serious implication” for the firms’ produc-

Stories by Oluwakemi Dauda Maritime Correspondent

tion, if the government fails to address the issue.

The delay has led to the payment of huge demurrage to shipping companies and rent to terminal operators.

It is also affecting their targets for this quarter (July - September).

The firms’agents are shuttling from office to office, in and outside the ports, to speed up clearing.

Importers and clearing agents are also in the same boat, it was learnt.

Besides, banks are on their necks

to service their loans.

Sources close to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) said it takes ships on the Lagos waters between eight and 10 days to berth at the ports.

The importers, manufacturers and agents are urging the Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to “exercise her powers under Section 152 of CEMA” to waive all demurrage and other charges on the affected goods.

An importer, who pleaded for

anonymity, said he took a loan to import rice, adding that the ship arrived at the port between June 26 and 28, but could not discharge its goods until July 7.

He said his bank has been pursuing him for part-payment, which was due last month, adding that the demurrage is huge.

“Rice business is a big business.

The majority of those of us in the business take loans from the banks to remain in the trade. Once there is a delay in offloading the rice from the ship or in moving the rice out of the terminals, we pay a lot of money to the shipping company, the terminal operators and the truck drivers.

“The delay we are facing was caused by the neglect of improving port facilities by the Federal Government. The major responsibility of the government is to make access in and out of the ports easy for users.

“But when a journey of less than 15 minutes from Mile 2 to Apapa ports now takes almost eight

hours for truck drivers, who can withstand the rigour, and you need about 10 trucks to enter the terminal to carry your goods where others are also struggling to move out their own on time to avoid demurrage, the problem is better imagined than observed,” he said.

On the challenges of servicing the loans, Balogun said: “The increase in ship and cargo dwell time has slowed down activities in cargo clearance and this has caused build-ups and tension at the ports.

The delay has resulted in the payment of huge demurrage to shipping companies and rent to terminal operators by importers and clearing agents. Before, we take delivery of between 10 and 20 containers at the ports daily. Right now, we can hardly take delivery of two containers because of the delays. Once your goods are at the port, you are in trouble because you cannot use the raw materials or produce and the bank will not allow you to sleep.’’

Fed Govt rakes in N2.2b monthly from CIS

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• From right: Former Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Chief Adebayo Sarumi and representative of the Olubadan Prof Femi Lana at a colloquium organised for Sarumi by NPA in lagos.

PHOTO: OLUWAKEMI DAUDA

NPA unveils plan to rehabilitate Oshodi-Apapa Express road

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IGERIAN Ports Authority (NPA) Managing Director Mallam Habib Abdullahi has expressed concern over the gridlock at the Apapa and TinCan Island ports in Lagos.

Abdullahi attributed the gridlock to the bad access roads, adding that they have been worsened by the rains and the reconstruction of the Apapa–Oshodi Expressway.

He called for collaboration among stakeholders to address the problem. Abdullahi said NPA plans to meet stakeholders to seek a way forward with.

The agency, he said, would cooperate and work with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to find a lasting solution to the perennial traffic jam.

He praised the Federal Ministry of Works for the re-construction of the road and Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola for finding a solution to the problem.

Abdullahi appealed to the construction firms to expedite work on the road, adding that the NPA

has also embarked on remedial work on the common user roads to alleviate the problem.

He said NPA was partnering with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) on its Train for Trade Port Training Programme so that it can continue to keep abreast of developments in ports’ operation.

Speaking when a delegation of the UN’s agency visited him in Lagos, he said training was important to NPA, adding that because of the competition from other ports in the West Africa sub-region, there was the need for operators in the industry to acquire necessary skills that will facilitate efficient and smooth operations.

Abdullahi said NPA’s Human Resources Division would liaise with the UNCTAD team to determine areas of needs and how best both parties could benefit from the collaboration.

The leader of the UNCTAD del-

egation, Mark Assaf, said the Train for Trade Port Training Programme, which is run in conjunction with Irish Aid of the Irish Government, operates through four language-based networks English, French, Portuguese and Spanish in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America.

Assaf said the programme was part of UNCTAD’s Corporate Social Responsibility to developing countries and a way of showing commitment to ports’ operations globally.

Urging the NPA to assist in mobilising stakeholders to key into it, he said the programme has been of immense benefit to participating countries.

The UNCTAD delegation also met with the management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Shippers Council, Nigeria Customs Service, terminal operators, clearing agents and visited Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.

HE nod by President Goodluck Jonathan for the transfer of Destination Inspection (DI) scheme from scanning service providers to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has started yielding positive results as the Customs generates over N2.2billion monthly into Federal Government’s coffers as one per cent of the Comprehensive Import Supervision (CIS) scheme.

The amount would have accrued to destination inspection service providers if they were still handling the scheme.

Speaking at a training for maritime journalists in Lagos, Customs Deputy Controller Olugboyega Peters said the N2.2 billion revenue was part of the many gains of Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) introduced

by Customs on January 1, this year.

He, however, said contrary to speculations that the money would be kept in Customs’purse, this was not so.

“We are yet to receive part of the money, but I am sure it will be given. Over N2.2 billion is being saved monthly by Customs as money that could have gone into the coffers of the service providers,” he said.

He said the service is fully automated and that the initial hiccups it encountered in the transmission of PAAR from its ruling centre in Abuja to the customers’banks have all been surmounted and resolved.

According to him, Customs clearing document is being managed by a network provider, Webfontain.

Peters said genuine importers can obtain PAAR in six hours, adding that Customs has cleared the 99,000 backlog of PAARs it inherited from the former service providers.

West Blue network provider, he said, handles Customs training schools and help in developing soft ware for its young officers.

PAAR: Customs at Seme generates over N1b

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HE Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Command has gener ated N1,084,644,883 through the implementation of the Pre Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) and the Vehicle Import Transit (VIT) at the border.

It wsa gathered that the schemes have eased vehicles importation and other items.

Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Abdullah Dikko, it was learnt, introduced the schemes to secure the country, reduce smuggling, improve revenue collection and facilitate trade at ports and border stations.

Investigation revealed that Nigeria-bound trucks are scanned by Customs officers, while100 per cent physical examination is carried out on suspected trucks by the scanning machine to avoid the importation of prohibited and dangerous goods.

With the introduction of the schemes, the Customs officers no longer engage in the hazardous task of chasing smugglers through the bushes.

Its Public Relations Officer, Ernest Olottah said: “The scheme has reduced smuggling of vehicles and increased the revenue generation of the command.”

He attributed the increase in revenue to the VIT scheme.

Meanwhile, Olottah has warned the public against the purported sales or auction of vehicles at the command.

In a statement, he said: “Our attention had been drawn to the news that some internet fraudsters have been impersonating the Nigeria Customs Service by defrauding unsuspecting members of the public with the purported ‘Auction Sales at Seme Command.

“The NCS has often warned the public on our Customs Duty programme broadcast on NTA International at 8:30pm every Monday.

Yet, it appears some people are not paying attention. We, therefore, plead with the media to assist us in enlightening the public that there is nothing of such at Seme Area Command.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

18

THE NATION

BUSINESS AVIATION Despite their promises, many domestic airlines have a reputation for not paying insurance claims after accidents. At a seminar in Lagos, some experts proffer a solution to the problem, reports KELVIN OSA OKUNBOR.

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Addressing insurance challenges

OMESTIC airlines’failure to pay claims to families ofaccidents’victims insurance remains a sore point in the industry.

The major reason for this is the airlines’ failure to pay premium.

The International Civil Aviation, Organisation (ICAO), according to its Montreal Convention, requires airlines to pay at least $100,000 per passenger if there is crash.

Last week, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority ( NCAA) and the Socio-Economic Rights Initiative (SERI) organised a seminar for stakeholders and High Court judges to examine air carriers’ liability and insurance.

The seminar provided a platform for experts, insurance practitioners, airlines and specialists in aviation law to reexamine challenges confronting aviation insurance.

Setting the tone for discussion, NCAA’s Acting Director-General Benedict Adeyileka said aviation insurance has become topical because of the failure of air carriers to pay compensation to families of victims of air crashes.

Adeyileka said the NCAA was

worried because operators do not have adequate insurance cover for their operations.

The primary objective of the seminar, Adeyileka said, is to offer a platform for the jurists and stakeholders to focus on policy, law and regulatory framework of insurance.

He said: “As a regulatory body, we are being saddled with ‘frivolous suits’, due to inadequate enlightenment of the stakeholders and the public on the statutory functions of the authority as it affects aviation insurance.

“The objective of this would be to enhance carrier liability and insurance, which the management of the NCAA intends to capture in the proposed amendment to the Civil Aviation Act 2006 and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2009 and 2012.”

This seminar, he said, is important because some issues have brought aviation liability and insurance under scrutiny, thereby emphasising the need to reexamine the legal and policy frameworks to ensure the country’s regulatory framework is appropriately adapted to modern aviation and insurance

environment.

He said attention was shifting to victims’ families’ access to compensation and the assistance airlines provide to victims and their families.

He said there was a need to offer protection to families of victims of air crashes, which should be commensurate with international standards and best practices.

Adeyileka said aviation insurance came on the front burner to improve consumer protection for air travellers.

He said plans were underway to deal with compensation for third party victims of air accidents.

He described third party victims as people on the ground, who are injured by a crashing aircraft in line with the ICAO modernisation of Rome Convention.

The Head, Legal Unit of the NCAA, Pollie Okoronkwo, said the authority intended to provide prompt and equitable compensation for consumers and victims of air accidents, as well as foster a productive and sustainable industry.

He said there should be a balance between the interests of

victims, carriers, insurers and the government.

He said the issues had become topical in view of claims by multiple heirs of accident victims, delays in payment of compensation, arising from the slow wheels of justice, especially in the administration of estate matters.

Okoronkwo also spoke of the challenges facing the civil aviation regulator in relation to validity of insurance policies and unavailability of insurance cover.

He said: ”In light of the foregoing, there is an urgent need to enlighten stakeholders on the law of air carriers’ liability; and the underlining principles and technicalities therefrom, which might affect the success or otherwise of their claims.”

Deputy Director, Authorisation and Policy National Insurance Commission of Nigeria (NAICOM), Mr Leo Akah, identified inadequate expertise to underwrite aviation risks, premium quotes, unfavourable terms, claims of control clause and jurisdictional clause as part of the challenges facing aviation insurance in Nigeria.

He said many firms lacked the requisite capacity to underwrite aviation risks, adding that such gap accounted for why domestic carriers prefer foreign firms to undertake their insurance risks.

Akah said the industry was struggling with other challenges, including inadequate reinsurance capacity. Most insurance firms struggle with high claims, a development that has had adverse effects on the industry, he stated.

According to him, aviation insurance has had huge challenges due to the quality of reinsurers in addition to lack of an aviation

B

• Legal Adviser, Bristow Helicopter, Mr Tolu Olubanjo (second left) presenting the helicopter’s keys to Capt.

Caulcrick. With them are: From left: Collins; Head of Engineering, Henry Toluhi, NCAT and Director of Legal Services Mrs Folake St. Matthew Daniel at the event.

Bristow spends N800m on training

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O boost manpower development, Bristow Helicopters has spent over N800 million in eight years to train helicopter engineers and instructors at the Nigerian College of Civil Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Speaking during the donation of a training helicopter to the college in Lagos, the Head, Human Resources, Bristow Helicopters, Mr Olufemi Collins, said the aircraft was part of its contribution to growth of the institution.

Collins said Bristow has a relationship with NCAT, adding that its memorandum of understanding was still subsisting and that the airline would continue to assist the foremost college.

He said: “This working relation-

ship has been strengthened with Bristow sending an average of twenty graduate engineers annually to the college for training. The company has also sent six instructors of NCAT for refresher courses abroad and intends to send four more instructors this year.”

The Rector of NCAT Captain Samuel Caulcrick expressed appreciation to Bristow for its support.

He noted that the college has also received gifts from the airline in the past. According to him He said: “Bristow has given us equipment in the past. This helicopter is just the latest. They are our partners.”

He also said this latest gift brings to two the helicopters the college has.

He further said the college has

528 students andcould admit more if hostel accommodation, one of the problems of the college, was solved.

Last month, Bristow Helicopter said spent over $ 6 million in the construction of a maintenance hangar in Port Harcourt. It is the most equipped in Africa.

Also, the airline said it invests over $5 million yearly on the training of helicopter pilots and engineers at the Bristow Academy in the United States.

It said Bristow, which has over 35 per cent of the market share in the logistical rotary wings operations, would continue to invest in domestic capacity in the aviation sector by supporting the training of helicopter pilots and engineers at NCAT.

pool and huge premium payment required of airlines.

His words: ”The challenges of air carrier insurance are quite enormous. Primary among them are the uncooperative attitude of some airline operators.There is also the challenge of confirming the actual boarded passengers with names in the manifest of an aircraft that has crashed. The claims administration system, incomplete documentation by claimants, fraudulent claims, multiple claimants as well as cultural and religious inhibitions are among the challenges.”

But, all the challenges could be resolved if there were a better cooperation between NCAA and NAICOM, compliance of airline operators to the NCAA Act, enforcement of the new market conduct guidelines for insurance institutions by NAICOM and strict observance of Section 50 of Insurance Act 2003 Also, NCAA General Manager, Economic Regulation and Facilitation, Mrs Anthonia Vincent, said the regulatory body was tackling many domestic carriers over the prompt submission of duly signed insurance policy, certificates and evidence of payment of premium.

She listed part of the regulatory challenges affecting insurance as instalmental payments of premium, which is against the requirement of NAICOM. She said many domestic airlines are pushed to get insurance cover from foreign underwriters because of the absence of requisite local content.

Mrs Vincent said: “ Part of the challenges of aviation insurance in Nigeria includes difficulties and delays in partial and or full settlement of claims and compensation to the families of the victims of airlines’ accidents as stipulated in the Act and Montreal Convention.”

Bi-Courtney to complete MMA 2 upgrade in 2016

I-COURTNEY Aviation Services Limited (BASL) will complete its facilities at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2 ), Lagos in 2016, its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Christophe Pennick has said.

Last week, it inaugurated an escalator at the airport. The project, which is the fourth phase of its facility upgrade, is worth N500 million.

Pennick said the upgrade of facilities at the terminal would be in 11 phases.

Other phases earlier inaugurated

by BASL, according to Pennick, are the automation of the car park, installing of new dual billing system at the cargo section and the expansion of the check-in counters from 33 to 45.

He said with the upgrade, its operations would be International Air Transport Association (IATA) complaint, adding that this would make it the first terminal in the subSaharan Africa to attain the standard.

He said: “We have done a major technical surgery to come out with this change. No pain, no gain. The escalators weigh more than 40 tonnes and it was not easy.”

Also, BASL’s Chief Operating Officer Miss Adebisi Awoniyi said the management changed the esca-

lator to boost the maintenance culture at its facilities.

She said the firm would not toil with the maintenance of its facilities, despite the myriad of challenges in the industry and the country.

Miss Awoniyi said the management went the extra mile to engage more people to assist passengers,, especially the physically-challenged during the reinstallation of the facility, praising the staff for their dedication.

She said: “We cannot afford to mess around with the maintenance of our facilities wherever they are. We have lots of facilities and equipment that were installed by Nigerians, but they come with their own challenges as their maintenances are not the way they should be.”

Also, the Director, Consumer Protection, NCAA, Alhaji Adamu Abdullahi, said the agency would continue to keep all the terminal operators, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, on their toes to improve passengers’ experiences within airport environments.

Adamu said: “It is good they are doing this and they will be able to put FAAN on its toes. FAAN, with this, has no choice than to improve on its facilities and give world-class operations in its terminals.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

19

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

FROM OTHER LANDS

Govt-contrived fuel crisis?

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•Only this can explain why fuel importers can be owed a staggering N300bn

ILL the Federal Government ever be able to inter the ghost of contrived scarcity of petroleum products? In the wake of fresh reports that the club of fuel importers are bracing up for another cycle of showdown over non-payment of subsidy claims, the question has become pertinent. Last week, some reports actually put the amount outstanding to the marketers at about N300 billion.

As a result, some of them are threatening to shun importation for the third quarter. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, admitted much to the fact of backlog of the bills when she stated that payment of claims to verified marketers, amounting to N45 billion, was ongoing.

‘It seems to us that Nigerians are even less likely now to accept the subsidy-removal pill than they were in January 2012, precisely because the Federal Government, aside failing to earn their trust, continues to demonstrate benumbing capacity for bad faith’

Nigerians are now familiar with the ding-dong game between the Federal Government and its partners in the fuel import bazaar. Ever since the last failed attempt by the government to ram the removal of subsidy agenda down their throats, Nigerians appear unlikely to see the last of the episodic simulation of crises in the downstream petroleum sector anytime soon.

The story today is that the fuel supply chain is under threat – courtesy of endless verifications and interminable procedures put in place by the finance ministry. Claims running into N300 billion are said to be locked in, with grave implications for fuel supply.

To start with, the story would probably have made sense if at the end, Nigerians are guaranteed that what is paid for from the treasury actually represent the value of fuel brought in by the marketers. The truth however is that this is ever hardly the case, which then raises the question about what the procedures seek to achieve.

Of greater concern to us however is that the Federal Government has shown neither the interest, nor the willingness to resolve the fuel-supply conundrum in any fundamental sense. It prefers, instead, to latch on to the lingering hope that wearied citizens would, somehow, surrender to it the final word on the subsidy question.

It seems to us that Nigerians are even

less likely now to accept the subsidy-removal pill than they were in January 2012, precisely because the Federal Government, aside failing to earn their trust, continues to demonstrate benumbing capacity for bad faith. Notable examples in this regard are, the failure to start work on the three proposed Greenfield refineries; the dumping of the recommendations of the 22-man panel led by former finance minister Kalu Idika Kalu on the overhaul and privatisation of the nation’s four refineries; and not least, its failure to clean up the monumental corruption in the petroleum sector.

How the Federal Government handles the issue of the outstanding claims to the marketers is entirely its business. From the amount, we see very little chance that the marketers would be able to bring in new cargoes – a situation which leaves the government the only wise option of expediting action on the claims.

We may well add that neither the Federal Government nor the marketers deserve our empathy; the fuel importers for exploiting the weakness of the industry to make illicit gain; and the government for not moving in the right direction in terms of driving a virile downstream sector, the result of which OPEC’s sixth largest producer of crude oil relies almost entirely on importation of refined products.

To the extent that the latter is at the heart of the cyclic crisis, both would remain, in our view, equally complicit.

SANs and corrupt judges

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•CJN’s criticism of the senior advocates is understandable

HE assertion by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar (CJN) that Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) who defend corrupt judges are equally guilty of corruption is a weighty indictment of her frustration with the judicial process. For, ordinarily, under our judicial system, courts encourage the appointment of pro bono counsel to defend the poor, charged with criminal offence. But corrupt judges understandably are a different kettle of fish, for most of them are stupendously rich, and can afford to hire the best legal minds to marshal their defence. So what is likely irking the CJN is the effort by such lawyers to employ subterfuge and filibustering to frustrate the prosecution of corrupt judges.

In essence, the CJN is throwing the dice back at those who accuse the judiciary of corruption, to say that, the fight against the heinous crime of corruption in the judiciary cannot be left to the administrative and judicial authorities alone. Justice Aloma Muhktar, who doubles as the Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC), the body constitutionally charged with the discipline of judges spoke at the Judicial Reforms Conference co-organised by the Nigerian Bar Association.

In her remarks, she said “we (the NJC) receive petitions and we have always tried to hear from both sides.

But many times many affected judges complain that they are not given fair hearing. Some will come with as many

as six SANs. Those SANs who go with them are equally guilty”. She also said: “the NJC is trying its best to ensure that those that are corrupt or that have cases of misconduct proved against them are shown the way out”.

As head of the judiciary, Justice Mukhtar cannot be averse to the intricate adversary judicial process that we practice, which deems an accused innocent until proven guilty, neither could she be opposed to the fundamental right of an accused to be defended by a counsel of his or her choice. We believe that the point the learned CJN is making is not that we should not follow the law, but that we should not use the law to frustrate the society, and we agree with her on that. That perhaps explains why the constitution imbues the NJC with a quasi-judicial authority to, among other things, discipline corrupt judges. The body populated mainly by judges and lawyers is like a peer review, but with the constitutional power to sanction.

Because we believe that it will also be constitutionally impossible to limit the intervention of the courts and the lawyers in the process of dealing with corruption in the judiciary, we think the solution lies with strengthening the criminal justice system of which the judicial process is the anchor. That is perhaps why the indictment of senior lawyers by the learned CJN should also extend to other institutions in the administration of our criminal justice proc-

ess. For, it is this tenuous criminal justice process that lawyers exploit to compound the difficult effort by the NJC to bring indicted corrupt judges to book, whether at the administrative level or even when the matter is adjudicated in the open court.

Indeed, we believe that if forensic evidence is procured indicting a judge; and the trial court/administrative authority is untainted, then it will be difficult for any lawyer to employ any antics to frustrate the process. We also appreciate that the learned CJN was by her exhortations urging lawyers to exert moral rectitude in their business; after all they are first and foremost officers in the temple of justice. The import is that no effort should be spared to cleanse the judiciary of corruption.

‘Corrupt judges understandably are a different kettle of fish, for most of them are stupendously rich, and can afford to hire the best legal minds to marshal their defence. So what is likely irking the CJN is the effort by such lawyers to employ subterfuge and filibustering to frustrate the prosecution of corrupt judges’

Fighting climate change with trade – Negotiations to End Tariffs on Environmental Goods

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HE United States, the European Union, China and 11 other governments began trade negotiations this week to eliminate tariffs on solar panels, wind turbines, water-treatment equipment and other environmental goods. If they are able to reach an agreement, it could reduce the cost of equipment needed to address climate change and help increase American exports.

Global trade in environmental goods is estimated at $1 trillion a year and has been growing fast. (The United States exported about $106 billion worth of such goods last year.) But some countries have imposed import duties as high as 35 percent on such goods. That raises the already high cost of some of this equipment to utilities, manufacturers and, ultimately, consumers.

Taken together, the countries represented in these talks (the 28 members of the E.U. negotiate jointly, while China and Hong Kong are represented by separate delegations) account for about 86 percent of trade in these products, which makes the potential benefit from an agreement substantial. Other big countries that are not taking part in these talks, like India, South Africa and Brazil, could choose to join later.

China’s decision to take part is important because it has put up trade barriers that have made it hard for American businesses to offer renewable energy equipment in the Chinese market. These talks could help remove those protectionist policies, which, among other things, require foreign companies to set up local joint ventures if they want to sell equipment in China.

The process won’t be easy. The negotiators have to first determine what specific goods will be included in the agreement. They are starting from a list of 54 products identified by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, but they are expected to expand that list considerably. Officials will also have to determine how quickly to phase out tariffs and other barriers to trade.

World leaders will have to use many tools to deal with climate change. Eliminating tariffs on environmental goods could help.

– New York Times TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh

• Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Adekunle Ade-Adeleye •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina

• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •General Manager (Abuja Press) Kehinde Olowu •AGM (PH Press) Tunde Olasogba

•IT Manager Bolarinwa Meekness •Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) •Press Manager Yomi Odunuga Udensi Chikaodi •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Legal Counsel John Unachukwu •Group Business Editor Simeon Ebulu • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye •Group Sports Editor Ade Ojeikere •Acting Manager (sales) •Editorial Page Editor Olaribigbe Bello Sanya Oni

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

20

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: This is a save-our-souls call from Nigerian students in Russia under the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) programme of the Federal Scholarship Board. If something is not urgently done to help our situation, Nigerians should expect to see screaming headlines like Russian Government deports Nigerian Scholarship Students for begging for alms on the streets of Russia; Russia set to deport Nigerian scholarship students for working without work permits; Nigerian students starve to death in Russia; Female Nigerian students prostitute for food in Russia.

The BEA scheme is a joint program run by the Nigerian government (through the Federal Ministry of Education) in collaboration with governments of other countries such as Russia, China, Cuba,

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EDITOR’S MAIL BAG

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SOS from Nigerians on scholarship in Russia Morocco, Algeria, Ukraine, etc.

Under the scheme, outstanding students from all the states of the federation are nominated by the Nigerian government to the foreign governments. The receiving-country then places the scholars in universities and pays their tuition while the Nigerian government pays for students’ visas, flight, and a monthly allowance of US$500.

In the last seven months, we have not received our stipends from the

Federal Scholarship Board (FSB), Abuja. Not a kobo or a single cent.

Having not received a single cent in the last seven months from the government that sent us abroad, how are we expected to survive?

The average cost of living in most Russian cities is about US$750 monthly; in cities like St. Petersburg and Moscow, it gets as high as US$1,000. This means that the US$500 the FSB is supposed to pay us is grossly inadequate. That

notwithstanding, the US$500 is never paid as at when due. The earliest we have received our stipends in the last four years is six months late. Every year, the Association of Nigerian Scholarship Students in Russia (ANSSIR) keeps writing newspaper articles as this, including letters to the House of Representatives, Senate and to the Federal Scholarship Board. Our numerous requests to increase our stipends and to pay them as at and

He was part of those who formed Youths Against Misguided Youths (YAMY) in a strong opposition to the Aso Rock bought-over Youth Earnestly Asks for Abacha (YEAA) led by one Daniel Kalu. He led several other movements that eventually sent the military to the barracks.

The struggle to enthrone transparency and accountability in public service landscape was kick started by the late human rights activist and few others. The end result of that struggle was the eventual passage of the Free of Information Bill into law in 2011. He had also tested that law when, in 2012, he wrote to the former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi asking him

to disclose his salary, allowances and other entitlements which the latter reluctantly responded.

Worried that most law graduates could not attend law school due to excessive and cut-throat school fees, the late civil rights activist dragged the Council for Legal Education to court in 2010 asking for the reduction in the oppressive fees. But unfortunately, the suit was struck out for want of locus standi.

That didn’t deter him from continuing his philanthropic work as he kept sponsoring handful of indigent students to Nigerian Law School. With just a letter of request by the Law Students Society (LSS), UI, the late Aturu accepted to foot the bill of the inter-university moot court competition at the Uni-

versity of Ibadan few years ago, later to be renamed “Bamidele Aturu Annual Inter-Universities Moot Court Competition”. I was taken aback by such gesture. He did all of this and many more without attracting unnecessary publicity to himself.

There is no degree of tributes and national monument that will quantify the late lawyer’s contributions into the nation’s jurisprudence as well as his dogged fight towards the entrenchment of good governance in Nigeria. The national leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association and the entire civil rights community should ensure that this dream is sustained.

• Barrister Okoro Gabriel, Ebonyi

lative and tendentious, but in portraying opinion as news.

Workers in the state were owed May salary, but this was in late June.

However, as soon as the cheque from the federation account allocation cleared on Tuesday June 24, salaries were paid and workers started receiving alerts from their banks that very moment.

Pray, how then does that translate into wooing? Is payment of salaries not a statutory responsibility? When an employer pays its workers, does that amount to wooing them?

Governor Rauf Aregbesola has

been ‘wooing’ the workers since December 2010 when it gave them 25 per cent of their salary as 13th month bonus, which has never happened in the state. He progressively increased the percentage every year until December 2013 when he gave them 100 per cent as bonus. He has given workers in the state housing loans and, earlier this year, car loans.

He has restored foreign training trips to the senior cadre which had been suspended more than 15 years ago.

These are what wooed the workers, not paying salaries. The tenden-

Aturu: Nigeria has lost a voice

IR: Words alone cannot adequately express the quantum of loss and vacuum created in the civil rights community, in particular and Nigeria in general, by the shocking demise of the famous and fearless human rights activist, Bamidele Francis Aturu, who died at 49. As I write, so many people (including yours truly) are yet to overcome the rude shock of the sudden demise of the Lagos-based and people’s lawyer!

Aturu, who died in the morning of last Wednesday, was a gift to the country’s legal profession but more particularly to the downtrodden Nigerian who are victims of successive government oppressive policies and misrule. He did not only employ his uncommon skills towards the development of the legal profession in Nigeria, he fought for a just society where the rule of law, as opposed to whims and caprices, would prevail.

Aturu was a thorn on the flesh of vicious leadership in Nigeria. He was equally a voice to the oppressed. It dated back to the military junta when he aligned with other progressive forces to reject a system of government obtained at gun point. Like other human right activists, he was not left out from the state brutality and clampdown, but he never compromised. In the heydays of Abacha regime, he was among those who gave the late maximum ruler sleepless nights.

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when due has always gone unanswered. The excuse always given is that the budget has not been passed.

Does it take seven months to pass the budget every year? What about the supplementary budget? Why can’t provisions be made for our stipends in the supplementary budget?

Why can’t our stipends be paid monthly like Nigerian workers (such as the staff of the FSB) and students from other countries such as Botswana and Ghana?

Nigerians need to understand that the visas issued us by the Russian government are student visas, which preclude any form of employment.

This means that we are not permitted by law to work even as cleaners, waiters or waitress, not part-time, not even during the holidays. Russian immigration laws are very strict and the Russian authorities are quick to punish offenders. Earlier this year, some foreign students were deported for working at a restaurant, in addition to the owners of the restaurant being made to pay huge fines. We would have loved to work to support ourselves but we are not permitted to work.

More worrisome is that that our yearly student visa expires in another four weeks. To renew it, we need a US$40 renewal fee. Failure to renew it 20 days before expiry could lead to deportation. Our problems still does not end there. Some of us our currently doing internship either at the hospital (medical students) or airport (aeronautical engineering students) and need money for transportation.

We plead with the federal government to speedily come to our rescue to save us from trauma.

• Samuel Mbakwe, Moscow

Aregbesola not wooing workers with salaries

IR: Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State recently paid the outstanding salaries of workers in the state. This was received with joy and much commendation by the workers who appreciated this as a product of great financial engineering, knowing that the monthly allocation to the state from the federation account had dropped by 40 per cent since last year. However, a section of the media, reported this as the governor wooing workers.

The slant of the story is disturbing and betrays a poor professional judgement, not just in being specu-

tious report of wooing workers with salaries is innocuous except that it was done with the intention of portraying the governor as using salaries as campaign instrument; that he has only paid salaries because of the impending election, or else, he would not have paid them at all.

A newspaper as an organisation, can take sides, but as professionals, let us stick to the facts and not pass opinion as news.

• Sola Fasure, Osogbo, Osun State

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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BOUT everyone Prof. Olatunji Ripples had, with a flourish, Dare has taught almost always rounded off a Language Arts enthuses: we owe him a debt of first degree at the University gratitude. The academic, famed colof Ibadan, and set his mind on umnist and editorial writer, turns 70 being some future wordsmith. on July 17.

Again, it was the first class; Lekan Sote, a columnist with The and the then Dr. Dare asked Punch, encountered Prof. Dare, then a his PGD Mass Communicagraduate assistant, as a fresh man at tion inaugural writing class to the University of Lagos Department of do an essay on anything that Olakunle Mass Communication in 1975. Those caught their fancy. Ripples lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola were the closing years of the golden conceitedly blurted, in the age of Nigeria’s academia. piece, his dream: “The man taught me three things,” wordsmithery. volunteered Mr. Sote, “how to write, The script literarily bled: why you must attend classes because “Wordsmithery for what?” the you always pick up something new and But in this age of brilliance without character, it is her teacher queried. “Have you ever heard the saying: scratch a testimony to the solid character of her teacher, even by a how to network.” journalist and you will probably find a social reformer?” foreigner, that blows the mind, en route to her taking up the The networking lesson came after Mr. Sote came asking The moral: wordsmithery is useless, if media writing does USIS job. his old teacher for a job reference, even after he never asked not improve society.

“He was one of the three referees whose names I submitafter the don for many years. The professor, feigning anger, Over the years, these were the fine ideals Prof. Dare taught ted when I was applying for the job of an information spethreatened not to write the reference; but eventually, he his lucky students. More importantly, these are the ideals cialist,” Mrs. Omotunde recalled. “Not knowing then which did. The moral: ask after people; nurture your network. he pens in his writings. organisation I was applying to, the then Public Affairs OfLearning how to write was a routine teacher-student ritual, For some four decades now — in his classroom and in the ficer of the USIS shortlisted me because a prolific writer, an though it was no less refreshing. It was no less refreshing public space as columnist and analyst — Prof. Dare has stuck upright journalist, Olatunji Dare, was one of my referees. I because the young Sote would, via rejoinders, critique Dare’s to his principles; and demonstrated how to match brilliance scaled through the series of interviews because, to the Amerinewspaper contributions. The teacher, after reading Sote’s with character, with stylistic panache and devastating rigcan officials, a student of Olatunji Dare would be ‘worth piece would invite him over, commend him on his strong our. employing’. It is 23 years now, and I am still on the job!” areas but still draw attention to weak areas that could make Incidentally, the week that started July 13 opened with a In 1985, another student, Azubuike Ishiekwene, former the contributions more logical than emotional. flourish of birthdays, of truly iconic Nigerians, all in their editor of The Punch and now managing director of LeaderBut the imperative to attend classes came at a stiffer cost. winter years: Prof. Wole Soyinka (80, July 13), Chief Ajibola ship, drank from the Dare spring.

Mr. Sote admitted some measure of truancy because he felt Ogunshola (70, July 14), Prof. Dare (70, July 17); and on July Now, between 1975 when Mr. Sote was a freshman; and he was brilliant enough to always pass his examinations.

10, Chief Henry Odukomaiya, famed newspaper technocrat 1985 when Azu was, the Nigerian academia had rapidly deHe passed this one, all right. and manager, had turned 80. clined, with the flux of the river of Heraclitus, which flows Still, the professor gave him a reference, just to teach the But should one laugh or cry? To be sure, a harvest of so rapidly you cannot “step in the same river twice.” hard lesson of intellectual modesty. Harsh? Unfair? Maybe. laughter is assured for these senior citizens who, in indiThe military barbarians were on overdrive, cannibalising Maybe not. But Mr. Sote admitted that single lesson stripped vidual accomplishments, have shown their country what it the glory of Nigeria’s tertiary education; and, with maniacal him of his near-contempt for class instructions — and he could easily have been but has not — no thanks to a unceaszeal, implanting the rust iron that would blight its future; always picked up something new! ing relay of third-grade rulers. thus condemning the best of Nigerian intellect to a Diaspora From the same golden 70s of the Nigerian academia comes But there might be some cry too. For starters, Wole brain drain. the golden testimony of Joke Omotunde, another former Soyinka in his poem, “Abiku”, proclaimed the “ripest fruit” But even with all that storm, Prof. Dare would appear to student of Prof. Dare’s, a staff of the United States Informathe “saddest”. Even on the personal level, this makes some have retained his essence: a strict but fair and conscientious tion Service (USIS) for 23 years now. sense, since old age comes with frailty. academic — again, not unlike Parminedes, who contrary to Mrs Omotunde’s first testimonial is to the rigour and brilBut it is in the sociological level that this sadness becomes the ever-changing theory of Heraclitus, his Greek philosophiliance of Dare’s teaching. “For me,” she said, “he was my more acute, with the Nigerian education system in a shamcal cousin, insists nothing ever changes. lecturer at the University of Lagos in the late 70s, a meticubles. The temper that produced these titans, despite an inAzu gave his impression of Dare in “The debt I owe”, publous mentor to the core whose ‘grammar for journalists’ has different Nigerian leadership over the years, appears in real lished in his column in Leadership on July 11: how the profeshelped me tremendously on the job I now do.” danger. sor disabused the mind of his freshman class of 1985 on fanSo, as we toast these senior citizens, role models all, are tastic notions about journalism; how Dare, with Chief Ajibola we seeing the last of the titans? As far as Nigeria’s educaOgunshola, the man who brought The Punch back from the tion and academia go, is this the last dance of the golden dead, directed his uncharted steps at crucial junctures of his generation — even if Prof. Soyinka famously dismissed his education and journalism career; how his old teacher poohgeneration as the wasted one, before the advent of the real poohed a piece of writing the student felt he could crow wasted generation? about but highly praised an improved later piece, encouragHappy birthday to Prof. Dare, a man of brilliance and charing the writer to get it published in a newspaper — his first acter. May his protégées continue to uphold his legacy of ever! banner without stain.

Azu’s experience is not that different from yours truly.

That, in Azu-speak, is the debt we owe!

epublican ipples

Man of brilliance and character at 70

‘Happy birthday to Dare, a man of brilliance and character.

May his protégées continue to uphold his legacy of banner without stain’

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T is an axiomatic that a considerable segment of world’s population cannot afford comfortable housing. Worst hit is Africa with overwhelming population, bad governance and stark poverty. Of the three basic human needs of housing, clothing and foods, housing has remained a recurring problem in Nigeria since Independence. The cost of housing has continued to skyrocket in the face of poor economic growth. There are insufficient houses for Nigerians to lay their heads. The available ones are not affordable.

After the second-world war, the British government in their wisdom built more than two million houses. That is why till today in Britain, people do not look for where to build houses, but houses that they will buy and the houses are always there for sale because they are enough to take care of the accommodation problem. This is, unfortunately, not the case in Nigeria because successive governments have neglected the development of the housing. They have found solace in the argument on whether private sector should take over the sector or the government should continue to get involved – an argument some state governments have hid under to abandon the sector completely in their developmental agenda.

That is even when in developed economies of the world, governments are still deeply involved in housing programmes to make them affordable as against leaving it in the hands of private investors whose main motive is profit.

If the Second Republic Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande had bought into the puerile argument that government has no business in construction of housing estates, he wouldn’t have constructed several housing estates in Lagos then. Today, the estates have provided succour to so many residents of the state at affordable price. They have remained reference point many years after and Jakande has always been remembered and eulogised for the vision.

‘Among the already completed include four dormitory blocks at the state National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Umunna, Bende Council Area; four new duplexes for commissioners at the Commissioners’ Quarters, the new ultra modern workers secretariat, four building complexes for the School of Midwifery at Amachara General Hospital and a modern students’ dormitory at Santa Crux High School Olokoro’

Tackling Abia’s housing challenge

By Benson Onyekwe On assumption of office in 2007, Abia State Governor Chief Theodore Orji was passionate about putting roof on the head of the residents of the state at affordable price. Just like Jakande, Orji’s government embarked on the housing projects in the state with target of 3000 residential housing before the end of his second term in 2015.

Presently some housing estates have been completed in Aba and Umuahia the state capital by the state government.

At Aba axis, the some buildings have been allotted to some people at the Unity Garden Estate at Osisioma Several houses have been completed and occupied at Amauba, Adelabu Street/ Amaokwe, Otobo and Isieke Ibeku housing estates.

At Adelabu Street/Amaokwe Estate located in the heart of the state capital, there are 65 duplexes already completed and occupied. Also completed and delivered by the government are 300 housing units, comprising of 225 three-bedroom bungalows and 75 duplexes and modified duplexes at Isieke Ibeku housing estate.

Close to the Ubani Ibeku modern market is Trader’s Estate comprising of 500 housing units nearing completion. Under construction also is the 8,500 housing unit for the residents of the state especially the civil servants. Finishing touches is being put by the government for the commencement of 3000 units of three and two bedroom units in IBB phase 1 and 2 as well as 1500 units of three and four bedroom bungalows in Amakamma and Ohiya Housing estates, respectively Apart from residential housing, there are also some nonresidential housing projects being undertaken by the state government as part of its developmental agenda. Some of them have been completed and handed over while others are nearing completion.

Among the already completed include four dormitory blocks at the state National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Umunna, Bende Council Area; four new duplexes for commissioners at the Commissioners’ Quarters, the new ultra modern workers secretariat, four building complexes for the School of Midwifery at Amachara General Hospital and a modern students’ dormitory at Santa Crux High School Olokoro. Others include Abia Broadcasting

Station Complex, the state Customary Court of Appeal, twostorey building at Ministry Of Justice, Abia State Planning Commission complex, Abia State Environmental Sanitation Agency (ASEPA) Complex, Abia Specialist Hospital, and others.

Nearing completion is the 3,000 capacity International Conference Centre with large parking space. The centre has four underground lounges and backup light for events. The finishing works at the centre is at advanced stage and superb with quality materials. Others include the new Government House, On the argument by some people that estate developers would have been engaged in developing the estates, the state government has before now lamented on the challenges of getting credible developers that will deliver according to specifications and set deadline with affordable limits. Truly, we have had cases of estate developers collecting money from people without delivering the house to them as agreed. That is why instead of giving the housing estate projects to developers that would start and abandon them halfway, the state government is undertaking and completing them as at when due.

In order to ensure proper maintenance of the estates after completion and handover to beneficiaries, the government has established the Estate Maintenance Management Systems.

This is to avoid ugly experience in the past where some estates built by governments across the country are left unattended to or not maintained. In such situation, some of them ended up as economic waste even when majority of the people have no houses to live.

Already people in the state are opening mortgage accounts to qualify them for mortgage as the state government has concluded arrangements with some financial institutions to assist buyers under a mortgage scheme.

Under the Site and Services Scheme, the state government has, rather than build and sell houses, gone into allocation of the lands, determining the type of house an allottee can erect within a time frame.

With the scheme, if a land is allotted to somebody, such person has a specific time frame to start development as failure to do so allows government to reclaim the land and re-allocate it. The scheme has brought about rapid housing development in the state, especially at Ogurube layout, the new Umuahia which is now a construction site.

It is therefore no surprise that the state governor was recently awarded the Housing Governor of the Year at Eight Abuja Housing Show at Nicon Luxury Hotel Abuja. The Programme Coordinator, Festus Adebayo, said the award to the Abia State Governor was in recognition of his laudable achievements in the housing sector.

•Onyekwe, an architect wrote from Okigwe, Imo State

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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HESE are not the best of times for the governors of Adamawa, Murtala Nyako and Nasarawa, Umaru AlMakura, both of the main opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) party. If all goes to plan, the two of them could be out of job sooner rather than later, courtesy of plots by their state House of Assemblies to remove them.

Over the weekend, the seven-member panel set up by the Adamawa legislature to investigate allegation of gross misconduct against Nyako and his deputy, Bala Ngilari rounded up its assignment after sitting for just two days. Neither the governor nor his deputy were present or represented.

Its report is expected to indict the governor but exonerate his deputy, paving the way for Ngilari to replace Nyako once the latter, as planned by those orchestrating the impeachment from outside of the assembly, is removed.

And in Lafia, capital of Nasarawa state, 20 out of the 24 members of the State Assembly Monday signed a notice of impeachment against Governor Al-Makura citing gross misconduct and misappropriation of funds.

Clerk of the House, Ego Maikeffi has been directed to serve Al-Makura with the 16-count charge contained in the impeachment notice.

Down south in Edo State, the House of Assembly has been in turmoil over who con-

‘For every allegation against Nyako and AlMakura, President Goodluck Jonathan is equally guilty at the national level. Beyond the allegations of gross misconduct and misappropriation of funds, there is enough evidence to nail Jonathan for gross incompetence, abuse of office and nepotism, which I believe are enough grounds for impeachment’

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Same treatment for Jonathan trols the legislature between the ruling APC and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Not a few are of the opinion that the battle is targeted at Governor Adams Oshiomhole by a resurgent PDP to either frustrate him out of office or render him impotent for the remainder of his tenure.

Further down south in Rivers State, the PDP is still bent on causing trouble in the APC controlled assembly with the sole aim of removing Governor Rotimi Amaechi also of the APC. The ‘war’ between the governor and the National Judicial Council (NJC) over who becomes the Chief Judge of the state is seen as another of the weapons being employed by the PDP to get at Amaechi.

The crises facing these governors are not unconnected to their membership of the APC. It is not an accident that these crises are taking place only in states controlled by the main opposition party. Of course the reason is crystal clear. To get President Goodluck Jonathan reelected next year, the PDP must win the majority in these states to counter whatever large votes the APC is expected to get in the presidential election in such big states as Lagos and Kano.

The allegation of gross misconduct against Nyako would not have arisen if he had remained in the PDP. But with support for Jonathan 2015 ambition sagging, any governor, especially any one of those that defected to the APC from PDP must either be whipped back into line or pushed out to pave way for the kind of massive votes needed to get Jonathan a second term. And Nyako is being particularly targeted because of his vulnerability following his running battle with the former national chairman of PDP, Bamanga Tukur.

Nyako’s problems to some extent are self inflicted, but to look at the impeachment threat solely from that angle is to miss the ‘invisible’ hands of the presidency in the whole affair. Though the governor has exonerated Jonathan from his travail, no one is fooled; this could just be a survival strategy for the cup to pass over his head, so to speak, before dealing with the issue of Jonathan 2015 project.

The case of Al-Makura is similar in many respects to that of Nyako. He, like his Adamawa counterpart is being accused of gross misconduct, an amorphous term to call a dog a bad name in order to hang it. Any ‘offence’ can come under this, and with a legislature awash with heavy monetary inducement from the PDP hierarchy, any governor that refuses to play ball and sing the Jonathan 2015 song is as good as gone, especially in states where the governor’s legs are shaking.

This is the kind of politics that we are likely to be witnessing as we move towards the 2015 presidential election. Jonathan in his desperation to get reelected would not leave anything undone, legal and illegal, ethical and unethical. To him and his camp, the end justifies the means. But if in the process of achieving that end, the fabrics of our existence first as a nation and may be a democracy are destroyed, of what use would that end be?

Get Nyako out, install his deputy as successor and pair him with Tukur’s son as deputy, then Adamawa is in Jonathan’s corner for 2015; signed, sealed and delivered. Give AlMakura the same treatment and once this is done, every other recalcitrant governor would fall in line and the road would be clear for another term for Jonathan. Really! Not so easy Mr. President? And Nigerians are no

fools. Jonathan can orchestrate the removal of all the opposition party state governors if he likes, that would not wash away his failures and that would not prevent him from being punished by Nigerians at the polls.

The APC’s complaints over Ekiti governorship polls notwithstanding, if only the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would conduct next year’s presidential election in a similar way, peaceful, with Nigerians allowed to express their preference, then I have no doubt that President Jonathan would be voted out and sent packing from the Villa in 2015.

I can’t wait for that opportunity to come and I am sure not a few Nigerians are looking forward to that day.

To the state legislators allowing themselves to be ‘used’ to harass their governors, I wish them good luck. I got nothing against them.

If their governors had actually erred, then they should be punished. One only wish that the National Assembly would be equally ‘responsive’ and act in the best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians by commencing impeachment proceedings against Jonathan.

For every allegation against Nyako and AlMakura, President Goodluck Jonathan is equally guilty at the national level. Beyond the allegations of gross misconduct and misappropriation of funds, there is enough evidence to nail Jonathan for gross incompetence, abuse of office and nepotism, which I believe are enough grounds for impeachment. But I have my doubt if the Senator David Mark’s led National Assembly has the strength and will to move in this direction and save our nation from this avoidable slide.

We have heard of the ‘missing’ billions, unremitted to the federation account from our oil earnings, but instead of addressing the issue, the whistle blower is being abused.

Nigerians are no fools. What about the Stella Oduah’s limousine scandal; the Petroleum Minister’s jet scandal and so on and so forth.

The Chibok girls are still with Boko Haram, and just over the weekend the terror group claimed responsibility for the Sienna bus explosion in Apapa. We are glossing over this while pretending that all is well. By the time these would explode, I pray God would save Nigeria.

For now let the point be made, whatever treatment is good for Nyako and Al-Makura, Jonathan deserves the same.

If Segun Osoba had failed…

HEN Sir Alex Ferguson was retiring as the manager of English football giants Manchester United after a remarkably unprecedented term spanning 27 years, he handpicked fellow Scot David Moyes to succeed him. Moyes was a middling figure, alien to trophy-winning ways. His years at Everton were barren, neither capping the season with laurels nor moving the club into Europe’s lucrative Champions League glare.

How the departing coach and the Malcolm Glazer family that owns Man United expected Moyes to succeed the success of the old Scot would remain a debate for a long time to come. For, to consummate a succession, the successor must either sustain the good work of his predecessor or surpass it. We can’t talk of a transition as a fait accompli if upon the handover of a baton, we observe a drop in fortunes in the state of affairs.

We may describe what Ferguson did as a radical shot.

But alas Moyes did not follow up by radicalizing the club, by properly connecting and converting Ferguson’s move into thunderous medal-gathering goals Man United was use to. He failed and paid the supreme penalty: an embarrassing sack!

Here in Nigeria years ago, it was not so with one professional godfather and his protégé. In the 70s when it was time for Alhaji Babatunde Jose to make changes at Daily Times Nigeria Limited (DTN), where he was the

‘Classical German philosopher of the 19th century Wilhelm Hegel said that great personalities in history appear twice, as it were. Several years later, Karl Marx, his compatriot of a more radical persuasion, ran a cynic’s post-script. According to him, Hegel forgot to add that when history so resonates, the first apparition is a tragedy and the second a farce.Jose wasn’t a tragedy; nor Osoba a farce’

By Banji Ojewale lordly chairman and Editor-in-Chief, he took quite earthshaking steps that saw him bring in Segun Osoba his godson as the editor of Daily Times, the company’s influential flagship, bypassing others perceived as deserving of the office.

There were other appointments. But it was the unfortunate chain reaction to Osoba’s that sparked the inferno that eventually consumed Daily Times.Godfather Jose meant well for godson Osoba and the newspaper group, just as Ferguson did for Moyes and Man United. I don’t think there is any doubt about this.

The ball would always be in the court of the protégé to play, not in the court of the godfather. Moyes let down his benefactor most woefully and gave rise to mischievous remarks questioning Ferguson’s skills in boardroom decisions.

It was not so in the case of Jose and Osoba, although we have an apt analogy in two godfathers influencing the upward positioning of their mentees.

Jose did what he believed was right for the DTN group, with his mind far into the future, even if the changes he put through were thought to be punitive. Given the success he had achieved for DTN, he reasoned this could only be maintained by someone like him. That future could only be guaranteed by Osoba who had proved highly successful through his industry, discipline, professionalism and loyalty in his work as a reporter and editor, following in the footsteps of Jose.

Even when Jose had left Daily Times group and the government of the day wanted to reorganize the media house, they approached Jose. This is what the godfather said about what transpired: “…in advising on the reorganization of the Daily Times, the man my mind went to was Segun Osoba as managing director. And I could justify it. I made him editor of the Daily Times and some people said it was a hazy, hasty decision. He did for a while. Then another publishing organization, though smaller in size, the Herald, appointed him general manager at a stage when they were just developing. He built up the company. Then the Sketch wanted the man. He also developed the Sketch and turned it into a profitable company. So, I said time had proved me right. Of the young people I knew, worked with or groomed at the Daily Times, Segun is a man who has proved himself

and proved me right. I recommended him and he was appointed managing director of the Daily Times. As managing director I think he took after me”.

Jose speaks in radiant terms about Osoba because the latter succeeded as a journalist, manager and governor.

So partly, Jose’s record as an acclaimed journalist and administrator stemmed from Osoba’s success. Viewed from the reverse, if Osoba had failed, he would have mired Jose as Moyes did Fergie.

For Osoba to be seen as a remarkable professional he apparently needed to meet the expectations of both his mentor and those he worked for. But what was weightier: satisfying the mentor or your constituency (those you are accountable to)? I think both reflect one and the same pursuit: the mentee can only please his mentor by posting a good performance, this being the trademark of the successful mentor himself. There is only a change of personalities; there is no displacement of excellence. One good actor leaves the scene, expecting the incoming one to earn the applause of audience through his own outstanding achievements.

This essay is a tribute to senior colleague, elder statesman and ex-governor Segun Osoba as he marks his birthday today. I am compelled to see him as the reappearance of the patriarch Ismail Babatunde Jose.

Classical German philosopher of the 19 th century Wilhelm Hegel said that great personalities in history appear twice, as it were. Several years later, Karl Marx, his compatriot of a more radical persuasion, ran a cynic’s post-script. According to him, Hegel forgot to add that when history so resonates, the first apparition is a tragedy and the second a farce.Jose wasn’t a tragedy; nor Osoba a farce.

Happy birthday, Aremo Segun Osoba!

•Ojewale is a media consultant and writer in Ota, Ogun State.

‘Jose’s record as an acclaimed journalist and administrator stemmed from Osoba’s success. Viewed from the reverse, if Osoba had failed, he would have mired Jose as Moyes did Fergie’

TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

25 and legal practitioners are vital in securing the integrity of the judiciary. ’ Judges Lawyers should support the judiciary by desisting from playing any part in the corruption and subversion of the judicial process ’ See page 26

E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

The judiciary is central to a democracy. As the third arm of government, it acts as a check on the executive and the legislature. But due to political and other influences, the judiciary is not living up to public expectation. Its integrity is being questioned because of the unseemly conduct of some judges. Experts, including Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Maryam Aloma Mukhtar are calling for the sector’s reform. JOSEPH JIBUEZE reports.

How to cleanse judiciary,

by CJN, others

ther queried or removed.

Judges, she added, have been warned to stop issuing orders or give judgments that cannot be defended on the basis of available facts and applicable law.

Justice Mukhtar urged the NBA to pay attention to senior lawyers who have been linked with serial violations of the rules of professional ethics. She also accused some Senior Advocates of Nigeria of unwittingly encouraging corruption in the judiciary, saying they work “in tandem” with corruption judges.

For instance, she recalled that a judge who was facing a disciplinary hearing for misconduct was represented by no fewer than six SANs. “I think the SANs are equally guilty,” she said.

Chief Justice of South Africa, Justice Mogoeng Reetsang Mogoeng, who gave the keynote address, said the judiciary has what it takes to kick start a turnaround in Africa’s image. He urged the judiciary to be “ruthless” in dealing with corruption within it, as that is the only way it can develop the moral courage to deal with graft in the society.

“If there is one institution that can demonstrate that power can be exercised without corruption, it is the judiciary. We have to start it. Only then can we deal as harshly as possible with corrupt people when they’re brought before us,” he said.

W

ILL the judiciary ever regain its glory? This is the question begging for answer amid the rot in the sector. In the past, the judiciary repudiated technicalities to function at an optimum level in dispensing justice without fear or favour. In recent times, many judges have been found guilty of corruption and other sordid acts.

The judiciary is grappling with the challenge of defending its independence and integrity.

With some exceptions, corruption, undue political and other influences, flawed process of judicial appointments, poor performance and denial of justice have become the judiciary’s lot. The consequence is a loss of faith in the justice system, leading to more people taking the law into their hands. Will there ever be a change?

Experts say change is possible with fundamental reforms, which must begin from within. According to Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Maryam Aloma Muktar, corruption remains the judiciary’s bane. “Corruption has become a real cankerworm that has refused to depart,” she said.

‘Review appointment process’

Need for reform

INSIDE:

Speaking at a Judiciary Reforms Conference in Abuja, with the theme: Putting our best foot forward: The judiciary and challenges if satisfying justice needs of the 21st century, Justice Mukhtar said corruption does not only manifest in judges receiving bribes to alter the course of justice, but in a flawed appointment process that produces inefficient judges that have no place on the bench.

She called for judicial reforms, which she said requires both cultural and systemic change in the delivery of justice, and must include the implementation of, and adherence to, a strict judicial evaluation performance management system.

The conference was organised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Judiciary Committee; the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which is implementing a justice reform programme in Nigeria with the support of the European Union; and a non-profit justice advocacy group, Access to Justice, which is executing a justice reforms project with the support of the Open Society Initiative of West Africa (OSIWA)/DFID, and the Performance Evaluation Committee of the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Justice Mukhtar said: “It is distressing to say that some judicial officers in Nigeria fall below the standard expected of judicial officers in the area of intellectual capability, uprightness, character and integrity and this reflects in the poor quality of judgments delivered by various courts in Nigeria and

•Scale of Justice

‘

‘It is distressing to say that some judicial officers in Nigeria fall below the standard expected of judicial officers in the area of intellectual capability, uprightness, character and integrity and this reflects in the poor quality of judgments delivered by various courts in Nigeria and a growing problem of conflicting judgments and the attendant confusion they create in the Nigerian legal system. This problem stems mostly from the flawed appointment process of judicial officers and the enthronement of mediocrity over merit’

‘

a growing problem of conflicting judgments and the attendant confusion they create in the Nigerian legal system. This problem stems mostly from the flawed appointment process of judicial officers and the enthronement of mediocrity over merit.

“The NJC under my leadership is effectively prosecuting a war against judicial corruption. I

Lawyers, social activists, others mourn Aturu -Page 37

shall review the strategies adopted by the NJC to institutionalise the reforms with a view to repositioning the judiciary to serve the interests of the Nigerian people,” she said.

She said through the Intelligent Performance Measurement System of the NJC’s Performance Evaluation Committee, judges found to be performing below the required standards are ei-

Osunbor sues NHRC for indictment over electoral offences -Page 38

NBA President Mr. Okey Wali (SAN) said the judiciary cannot perform efficiently where its independence is not guaranteed.

“To secure the independence of the judiciary, the government must grant to it true financial autonomy, and a full self-accounting status. The funds of the judiciary must be released to it as soon as the same is approved in the budgets of the Federal and state governments,” he said.

On appointment of judicial officers, Wali said persons who have had little or no serious practice of law have often been appointed judges.

“Appointments are not always made on merit but on extrinsic factors, such as family and political ties or affiliation. As a result of this, the judiciary and ultimately the judicial service system have been the worse for it,” he said.

He regretted that after 40 years, no practicing lawyers or distinguished university jurists have been elevated to the Supreme Court since the days of the late Justices Augustine Nnamani and Teslim Elias.

“The NBA repeats our call that practising lawyers and distinguished university jurist of note should be appointed to the High Court and appellate Courts, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court,” Wali said.

Wali also faulted the organisation and funding of conferences for judges within and outside the country by some organisations, such as the Assets Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), who are litigants or prosecutors before the courts.

“This is quite disturbing. Like Caesar’s wife, our courts must not only be above board, but they must, at all times, be seen to be above board,” he said.

A former Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) agreed with Wali, saying merit is the least considered factor when lawyers are appointed to the bench.

“Generally, our systems of appointment •Continued on page 26

Law and transformation: NIALS forensic empiricism and legal pragmatism •Continued on page 26

-Page 39

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

LAW COVER CONT’D

‘

•Continued from page 25 locally and nationally focus more on other considerations. Merit comes very low in order of considerations,” he said, adding that when judges are appointed on the basis of ethnicity/ religion or other parochial considerations, they will almost invariably see themselves as champions of the platform which gave them the position rather than doing justice to all.

Osinbajo said to ensure merit in judicial appointments, there should be clarity on criteria, selection process and information for intending applicants; openness in shortlisting and selection from a wide range of eligible candidates, rigorous standard testing of competences and quality assurance at every stage of the process.

He recommended the United Kingdom model, which involves vacancy request, advertising and applications, short-listing, references, open candidate selection, panel decision, statutory consultation, checks, selection decisions and quality assurance.

A member of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission Chief Kunle Uthman, who represented the Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Ayotunde Phillips, urged the NJC to review the process of selection of judges and make it merit driven, open and transparent.

“This process of nomination by serving judges is awkward, restrictive, limiting in nature and forecloses other constituencies like the Magistracy, the Ministry of Justice and private practitioners as relevant in the exercises.

“An important part of the appointment process is the submission of two lists, namely Priority and Reserve, which are sent to the NJC with comments of every member of the JSC on each of the candidates. This process of selection is not merit driven and is further compounded by the submission of the Priority and Reserve Lists.

“I suggest an abolition of these two lists. In future, the JSC should forward the exact number of persons to fill the vacancies. Afterall, the JSC and not the NJC interviewed and observed the performance of these candidates prior to making recommendations.

“The NJC should cease to have the prerogative of tampering with the lists. If NJC is dissatisfied with the choice of any candidate its sole prerogative is to give in unequivocal terms reasons for such rejection, and request for clarification or replacement.

“In summary, members of the JSC and the NJC (to a limited extent) involved in the selection and appointment of applicants for judicial office, for promotion to higher judicial office and/or for specific roles within the judiciary should make their decisions by reference to sound, objective criteria, on the basis of each candidates personal merit, experience, competence, performance, skills and abilities,” he said.

A professor of law, Dakas C. J. Dakas, said the appointment process “should be designed to guarantee the quality and independence of mind of those selected for appointment at all levels of the judiciary”.

According to him, “an open, transparent and credible process inspires confidence in the men and women who are charged with the responsibility of dispensing justice.”

Dakas also faulted the appointment process, saying: “Judicial vacancies are officially circulated only in the legal community. Names of applicants or nominees are not published in the media. Non-confidential and non-sensitive information about the applicant are not published in the media.

“Comments are invited from superior court judges and the NBA, but members of the public are now allowed to submit any relevant information about the applicants candidates are not interviewed, whether in private or public.

On the whole, the current dispensation is neither open nor transparent,” Dakas said.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr. Mohammed Adoke (SAN), represented by Bola Odugbesan, said any evaluation system should be focused on the judiciary rather than on individual judges, while the emphasis should be on quality, and not necessarily the number of judgments delivered within a period.

“I share the view that the judiciary has a system skewed towards quantity rather than quality. We should focus on how well the judiciary is performing as whole,” he said.

‘Prosecute corrupt judges’

Responding to Justice Mukhtar’s allegation against SANs, Mallam Yusuf Ali (SAN) said though he had never defended any judge before the NJC panel, the principle of presumption of innocence entitled a person to defend themselves with everything at their disposal, including legal representation.

Besides, he the best way to deal with corrupt judges is not merely to dismiss or retire them quietly when they’re found culpable, as NJC

Judicial appointments should, as much as possible, give adequate consideration to gender parity. There should be enough diversity in the appointment process to ensure proper representation. The quality of justice is improved since a diverse judiciary is able to draw on a wider range of collective experience‘ •From left: Justice Abdullahi (rtd), Odugbesan, Justice Bulkachuwa, Justice Mukhtar, Wali and Cisoko

•From left: Member, NBA Judiciary Committee Mohammed Audiu; Mrs Ugonna Ezekwem of UNODC; Otteh and NBA Judiciary Committee Chairman Alhaji Hibatullahi Salako

•From left: Former NBA General Secretary Ibrahim Eddy Mark, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama (SAN) and former NBA President Lanke Odogiyan

‘How to cleanse judiciary’ presently does, but to subject them to full criminal trial.

“If it has been established that a judge is corrupt, he should be tried. That’s the only way the judiciary can operate with moral authority. We must give corruption the real treatment it deserves,” he said.

Executive Director of Access, Mr Joseph Otteh said there is increasing public distrust of the judiciary arising from what is perceived as a lack of independence or its unwillingness/inability to fight off political interference in the administration of justice.

He added that the dwindling public confidence is also caused by the dysfunctional state of the judiciary which results in its failure to resolve cases in a fair, efficient and speedy manner.

“Issues implicated in a judiciary’s low standing in the public eye ultimately have something or the other to do with the way judges are appointed into office and the degree of accountability of the judiciary to its people and

‘

‘If it has been established that a judge is corrupt, he should be tried. That’s the only way the judiciary can operate with moral authority. We must give corruption the real treatment it deserves’

‘

of the accountability of judges to the judiciary itself...

“This is why we thought, as stakeholders, we could offer our support towards implementing reforms to these processes,” Otteh said.

He also rejected suggestions that states should have the sole prerogative of appointing judges, without NJC’s intervention. “We need a layer of safeguard and that’s why I think the role of the NJC is very critical,” he argued.

UNODC Country Representative Mariam Sissoko stressed the need for an effective performance evaluation mechanism for judges to ensure the success of the ongoing reform process in the nation’s justice administration system. She said that the ability to monitor and evaluate the performance of the judiciary is an important component of judicial reform.

“Public confidence in a free, fair and impartial judiciary is enhanced when the public is not only aware of the process by which judges and magistrates are selected, but also when they are assured that there is oversight in the manner in which the judiciary dispenses justice,” she said.

Resolutions

A communiqué issued at the end of the conference reads in part: “An essential aspect of ‘putting the right foot forward’ must include a review of the guidelines for the recruitment of judges to encourage a more transparent, competitive and merit-based system that will eliminate non-transparency in the appointment process. The ongoing review of the process by the NJC should include a participatory process that will ultimately lead to the appointment of persons of integrity and eliminate corruption.

“There should be adopted a manner of appointment of members of the Judicial Service Commissions (JSCs) that would ensure that only competent candidates are appointed who should resist any attempt to influence them in arriving at their decisions.

‘

“To reduce case backlogs in states with limited judicial manpower, the option of appointing and using ad-hoc judges is worthy of consideration. SANs, competent senior lawyers and retired judges could be appointed on an ad-hoc basis to fill these positions as is the practice in other jurisdictions.

“Judicial appointments should, as much as possible, give adequate consideration to gender parity. There should be enough diversity in the appointment process to ensure proper representation. The quality of justice is improved since a diverse judiciary is able to draw on a wider range of collective experience.

“Competency based criteria should be adopted in the appointment of judges and the process must be merit-based. Fair and equal consideration should be given to members of the Private Bar and the Academia.

“There is need for a strategic improvement in the system to involve all stakeholders in order to have a system that takes into consideration outputs and standards which have the capability of sustaining public trust. The Nigerian Bar Association should also institute a system of qualitatively monitoring and evaluating courts and judges’ performance at all levels of court.

“States’ Judicial Service Commissions should undertake performance evaluation at the lower courts where a majority of cases are decided in order to strengthen the system of justice delivery.

“Performance evaluation should go beyond sanctions for poor performance and should include interventions to improve capacity towards enhancing performance where gaps are noticed.

Exceptional performance by judicial officers should be rewarded.

“An enabling environment should be created for judges to adequately perform their functions.

The judiciary and other stakeholders must advocate for true independence with control over its own budget. There is need to implement and respect the constitutional provision on fiscal Independence of the judiciary.

“Corruption is an insidious plague that leads to the subversion of justice. The judiciary must play a pro-active role in eliminating corruption within the justice system thereby enhancing integrity and accountability.

“Judicial officers must develop case, change and time management skills. An evaluation methodology that uses National caseload data will enhance decision-making and produce better performance management policies. A properly structured judicial education system through which continuous training will be available to Judges must be developed.

“The National Judicial Council should refer all substantiated complaints of corruption against judicial officers to appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation.

“Concerns were raised about the commitment of the Bar in securing the independence of the judiciary. Attorneys General must do more in giving relevant advice to governors.

“Performance data used for evaluating the outputs of judges should include all decisions and pretrial proceedings done by judges.

“Judges and legal practitioners are vital in securing the integrity of the judiciary. Lawyers should support the judiciary by desisting from playing any part in the corruption and subversion of the judicial process.”

At the conference were Supreme Court Justices, President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulchachuwa; former PCA, Justice Umar Abdullahi; Heads of Courts, including Anambra State Chief Judge, Justice Peter Umeadi and his Imo State counterpart, Justice B. A. Njemanze; and chairman of NJC Performance Evaluation Committee Justice Emmanuel Ayoola (rtd).

Also present were Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Senator Umar Dahiru; his House of Representatives counterpart, Beni Lar; Prof Ernest Ojukwu, Nigerian Law School; Deputy President, National Centre for State Courts, Jeff Apperson; an independent judicial researcher Dr Gar Yein Ng; former chairman, NBA Lagos Branch, Chijioke Okoli.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

LAW & SOCIETY

Braithwaite’s N10b suit against bank fixed for Sept. 25

H

EARING on the N10 billion suit filed by elderstatesman, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite before a Lagos High Court, against Standard Chartered Bank Plc has been fixed for September 25.

The hearing was stalled last week owing to the absence of the trial judge, Justice Doris Okuwobi, who was reportedly ill. As a result, the court registrar adjourned the matter, alongside other matters, till September 25 on the agreement of the parties.

At the last hearing, Justice Okuwobi had dismissed an application filed by the bank against the plaintiff’s amended statement of claims for lack of merit.

In her ruling, Justice Okuwobi stated that she did not see how the issues raised by the claimant had hampered the case.

She said: “I do not foresee that the defendant/applicant will be denied the right to plead his own case in full and that he will be denied the right to fair hearing. For this reason, this application cannot sail through.

Consequently, it is accordingly hereby dismissed.”

The bank had prayed the court to strike out some paragraphs of the claimant’s re-

By Adebisi Onanuga

ply to the bank’s amended statement of defence.

The application followed Dr Briathwaite’s response to the bank’s amended statement of defence in which he raised some vital issuesin support of his position.

Standard Chartered Bank , responding through its counsel, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, urged the court to strike out certain paragraphs it considered inimical to it, on the ground that the claimant is introducing new facts outside the issue in contention.

Opposing the motion, counsel to the plaintiff, Razaq Okesiji, had told court that the contents of the claimant’s reply to the defence statement and witness statement on oath are relevant to the subject matter of the suit and necessitated by the averments in the amended statement of the defence as well as the documents introduced by the defence, which were not in existence at the time of filing the amended statement of claims.

He further stated that the claimant had neither departed, contradicted nor added new

item to its claim, which should prejudice the defendant.

Citing several Supreme Court authorities, Okesiji said the reply was within the rights of the claimant and that Order 15, Rule 19 of the High Court Rules allows new pleadings to come up in a reply.

He urged the court to dismiss the defendant application, pointing out that the paragraphs of the claimant’s reply to amended statement of defence and corresponding paragraphs of the statement on oath which the defendant seeks to be struck out relate to the Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure in Nigeria, and the failure of the defendant to compete therewith, has always been the kernel of the claimant’s case right from the commencement of the suit.

Dr Braithwaite in the suit is seeking an order declaring as illegal, the erecting a 15storey commercial building and multi-level car park by the bank in an otherwise residential area in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The claimant is also uncomfortable with the bank’s installation of giant industrial generators directly opposite his house with the concomitant fumes and noise shattering

•Braithwaite

their air and serenity.

In view of this, Dr. Braithwaite is praying the court to grant him N10billion in damages and a demolition of the building.

Ezeobi dies at 75

C

•From left: Azinge’s wife, Valerie; Prof Paul Idornigie, Azinge, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, Alegeh, Dakas and Kalu.

Azinge seeks six-year term for president

A

FORMER Nigerian Institute of Ad vanced Legal Studies (NIALS) Direc tor-General, Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN) has called for a constitution amendment to provide for a six-year single term for the President.

He said six years is enough for a president to implement all his programmes and make way for another person with fresh ideas.

According to him, there is a tendency to run out of ideas after a few years in office, adding that the current two terms of four years is not necessary.

“It gets to a point where a leader is burnt out,” he said.

Azinge, who retired as NIALS DirectorGeneral on May 26, spoke at a dinner organised in his honour by Mr Augustine Alegeh (SAN) in Abuja.

Alegeh was Azinge’s student at the University of Benin Law Faculty where he (Azinge) began his teaching career in 1981.

Azinge said he could not think of anything he could have done at NIALS in five years that he did not do.

“At that point, I was burning out. I was exhausted. It was a matter of giving it my

T

By Joseph JIbueze

last shot,” he said.

Azinge said his success at NIALS was a collective one, adding that no individual can generate ideas on his own.

“We were able to create a cream of the best at NIALS. We also made maximum use of the media in trying to ventilate our achievements,” he said.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jide Koku, said Azinge made huge impact in the lives of others.

A former Abia State Attorney-General Prof Awah Kalu (SAN) said Azinge did well, not just at NIALS, but in the Ministry of Justice where he also worked, and at UNIBEN. “It’s the experience he gathered at those places that he applied at NIALS,” he said, describing Azinge as a man with “many angles”, referring to his “sartorial elegance and intellectual endowment.”

A former Plateau State Attorney-General, Prof Clement C.J. Dakas (SAN), who also taught at NIALS, said it was a pleasure to celebrate Azinge.

“Alegeh said Azinge mentored him, but

unfortunately today, we don’t have the people with the spirit of mentoring young people.

“If Prof Azinge didn’t have the spirit to mentor young people, we won’t be here celebrating tonight. He encourages his staff to be the best they can be and ensures he is surrounded by stars.

“Everything about him was the institute.

Some saw him as a slave master. He has not only raised the bar, but the visibility of the institute. We thank him for the sacrifice. I’m confident God will continue to elevate him.

“As his name Epiphany suggests, he is a revelation that all of us are seeing today.

He is a lesson that when we dare to make a difference in the lives of others, we are always rewarded,” Dakas said.

A lawyer, Anozie Obi, who studied at NIALS, prayed that God strengthens Azinge and helps him find “better places to serve.”

Alegeh said Azinge “served very well,” adding: “We were not invited to come and defend him in court on any charge by any anti-graft agency. If he didn’t serve well, I’ll even deny that he taught me.”

HIEF Theodore Ezeobi (SAN) is dead.

He was 75.

In a statement, his son Theodore jnr., said: “The death has occurred, in Enugu of Ononenyi Chief Theodore Anachuna Ezeobi (SAN), at the age of 75.

“An accomplished Barrister -at- Law and a most distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria. Chief Theodore A. Ezeobi (SAN), a quintessential gentle man, the Lawyer’s Lawyer, a dedicated Bar man, a teacher and mentor, was a product of Government College Umuahia (1952) on Government Scholarship, University of Lagos (1962) on Standard Bank of Nigeria Ltd. Scholarship, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1965) on Standard Bank of Nigeria Ltd. Scholarship, Law school programme, Enugu (1966), Nigerian Law school, Lagos (1970) on Standard Bank of Nigeria Ltd. Scholarship.

“His was a heroic, noble, accomplished and content life of service to humanity and his very much loved field of endeavor, the practice of Law. “Chief, as he was fondly called, was the first Nigerian Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Standard Bank of Nigeria Ltd., now First Bank of Nigeria PLC, past Chairman; Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch, NBA Disciplinary Committee Panel B, Nominee of the NBA at the National Judicial Council (NJC), Member; Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), Nigerian Body of Benchers, Council of Legal Education, NBA National Disciplinary Committee, Asia Pacific Lawyers Association, and International Bar Association (IBA).”

He added: “He was a member of other notable associations, including; Peoples Club of Nigeria, Otu-Oka-Iwu, Ndigbo Lagos, and Patron; Association of Anambra State Development Unions, Lagos, Catholic Lawyers Association, and Catholic Youths Organisation of Nigeria. He was also a member of the Parish Pastoral Council, Holy Family Catholic Church, FESTAC Town, Lagos.

“He was interested in Gardening, loved watching football, listening to good music, photography and travelling.

“He is survived by his wife, Iyom Bernadette Ezeobi, five children, all of whom are lawyers, sons and daughters’ in-Law, grand children, relations.”

Benue CJ praises agency’s contribution to justice reform

HE Chief Judge of Benue State and the state’s Solicitor General (SG) wn case in full and that he will be denied the right to fair hearing. For this reason, this application cannot sail through. Consequently, it is accordinglyand Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Justice Iorhemen Hwande and Mrs Christy Anageende have praised the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) over its support in enhancing reform in the state’s justice sector.

They spoke at the recent action planning workshop for the Benue State’s justice sector held in Makurdi by the UNODC under the “Support to the Justice Sector in Nigeria” project funded by the European Union (EU).

The state’s CJ, who was represented by Justice Aondover Kaka’an said EU and UNODC’s support is uplifting the judiciary and enhanc-

From Eric IIkhilae, Abuja

ing the quick delivery of justice in Benue State.

UNODC’s Outreach and Communications Officer, James Ayodele in a statement, quoted the Benue CJ as saying “UNODC supported us in establishing the Judicial Research Center (JRC), and with the resources in the center the judges are able to access information that will enhance their work and help them dispense justice without delay.

“Due to the implementation of the action plan drawn up in 2008 with support from UNODC, we have increased pro bono services to individuals who cannot afford the services of a lawyer and this has enhanced smooth hearing of cases by the courts and reduced the number of awaiting trial inmates in prisons,” he said.

Ayodele also quoted Mrs Anageende as say-

ing “I know the importance of this work planning workshop and I want to appreciate the efforts of the European Union and UNODC. I have no doubt that Benue State will benefit immensely from this workshop and the project.”

The focal person for the EU-UNODC justice project in the state, Justice Polycarp Kwahar said “some of the reforms we included in the 2008 work plan looked impossible. For instance, the establishment of the JRC; it was capital intensive, but with the support of EU and UNODC and the effort of the Chief Judge we were able to establish it.”

The National Project Officer Justice Sector Reform at UNODC, Mrs Ugonna Ezekwem, said Benue State is particularly important to the EU and UNODC because of its outstanding performance during the last EU-funded

project implemented in the state.

“A lot of the reforms implemented in Benue State with support from EU-UNODC during the previous justice sector reform project have been sustained and the activities in the 2008 action plan are still being implemented, so we are very happy to be back here to advance these reforms.

“Action planning will encourage the justice sector in supported states to plan strategically for reforms and to monitor and evaluate their performance over a period of time,” Mrs Ezekwem said.

Ayodele explained that under the EU funded project, UNODC is supporting the development and implementation of state-level action plans for justice sector reforms in nine states and the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

NATIONAL BAR

Okorocha donates land to lawyers I

MO State Governor , Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha, has donated a plot of land to the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) for its national secretariat in the state.

The governor also promised to give the forum N50 million when the building is decked.

He made these promises while declaring open the forum’s seminar and awards ceremony.

The governor, fondly called the Senior Advocate of the Masses, praised EBF for the choice of this year’s seminar topic, which is: The role of the Judiciary in the promotion of common good and security in Nigeria, whither Nigeria?

“The topic is well thought out because our nation is in dire need of good leaders at this point in time. Nigeria is waiting for the Igbos, we are well packaged, we are a special people.”

Okorocha regretted a situation where the government can no longer guarantee the safety of lives and property of its citizens, saying: “If the government cannot guide the people, the people should guide themselves.”

He urged the people to guard themselves, form vigilante groups, know their neighbours and be conscious of their security at all times.

He said Igbos have laid their lives more than any other group for the country’s unity.

EBF Governing Council Chairman, Mr. Ogbonna O. Igwenyi, praised Okorocha for the gesture.

He said: “Eastern Bar Forum in its present standard has come of age and has begun to asset its relevance in the consciousness of members and the immediate environment. “In the year 2012 under Kemasuode Wodu administration, the forum organsied international conference on national security at Calabar, which was attended by

T

•From left: Augustine Alegeh (SAN), Rev. Father John Odey; Justice Doris Adekebo, Chief Judge Bayelsa State Justice Kate Abiri; Umeh (SAN), and Gov. Okorocha

•From left: Former President NBA, Onueze C.J. Okocha (SAN); Igwenyi; Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Abia State, Hon. Umeh Kalu; First Vice-President NBA, Francis Ekwere; and Funke Adekoya (SAN).

Suspense as NBA elects officers today

HE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) will today in Abuja elect new officers to run its affairs for the next two years. The new officers will be sworn in on August 31 when the tenure of the incumbent administration will end.

Apart from the normal anxiety that characterises such elections, today’s election is expected to throw up a lot of surprises because of intrigues in the build up to the election.

At the last NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) in Abuja, NBA President, Okey Wali (SAN) announced the constitution of an electoral committee, with Okey Amechi (SAN) as the chairman and Mrs. Sefiya Balarebe as secretary.

He also lifted ban on campaigns and rolled out the time table and guidelines for the Bar elections.

The guidelines state that nomination shall open from May 1, and close on May 31; and that nomination papers shall be enclosed in sealed envelopes and addressed to the secretary of the committee to

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By John Austin Unachukwu

the then National Security Adviser to the President, the late General Owoyi Azazi.

“That conference resolved that Nigeria was ripe for State Police to complement the federal force in the maintenance of law, peace and order in our region nay the whole country.”

The Chairman of Owerri branch of the NBA, Mr. Stanley Chidozie Imo, expressed appreciation to the branch members who voted for him.

He assured them of his commitment to their welfare.

“As I said in my inaugural speech, I am extending my hands of fellowship to all and sundry. The time for politicking is over, what is before us now is the task of moving the Bar forward. I urge that all hands must be on deck in order for us to achieve this goal.

“I want to use this opportunity to congratulate all the awardees for this well deserved honour done to them by the EBF. Particularly, I want to thank the EBF for choosing Chief Mike Ikenna Ahamba (SAN) (the Ogbuhuruzo of Owerri Bar) for this award. “As you all know, Chief Mike Ikenna Ahamba is a legal colossus and a pathfinder of our branch. I also thank the EBF for giving this honour to our action Governor, His Excellency, Owelle Anayo Rochas Okorocha ‘’Imo regretted that up till now, Owerri Branch has not produced a National Officer in NBA. Particularly, the EBF has never endorsed a candidate from Owerri. “ Therefore, I want to state here and now that come next two years, we shall be calling on the EBF to help us realise this dream. On our own part, we shall present a candidate that is marketable,” he said.

By John Austin Unachukwu

reach her on or before May 31.

Screening of nominated candidates by the Electoral Committee took place on July 7 at the National Secretariat of the Association.

A full list of properly nominated candidates was to be exhibited at a conspicuous place or notice board in or around the Delegates’ Conference Hall not later than a day before the election.

The guidelines also provided that there would be no pasting of posters, Billboard, Hand bills or any form of campaign materials whatsoever; no souvenirs or gift of any sort is allowed.

The candidates for the presidency are Mrs Funke Adekoya (SAN), Mr Osas Erhabor, Mr Augustin Alegeh (SAN) and Deacon Dele Adesina (SAN).

Following the lack of consensus candidate from the Southwest where the election is zoned to, voters will decide who among the candidates will lead the association.

•From left: M. C. Aniazoka Zokas, S. U. Anyia, Chairman NBA Aguata branch, E.N. Ezeonwuka OnowuChair NBA Anaocha branch, Chris Adimorah, and Lawrence Nwakaeti

•From left. His Royal Majesty, Chief Akuro George; Nnamdi Ahunanya, Mrs. Nkoli Awa, Igwenyi, ,Mrs. Tess Moris Okeke, Secretary EBF, S. Long Williams, Reuben James, former Chairman NBA Kaduna, Sam Atung and VAB Ewuzie.

NBA Ikorodu elects new officers

HE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikorodu branch has elected new officers to run its affairs for the next two years. A former vice chairman of the branch, Adedotun Adetunji was elected chairman.

He polled 130 votes, while Bayo Akinlade, who came second, scored 29 votes. The election was held on July 7.

Other officers are Abimbola Ojedokun (Vice-chairman), Blessing Ene (Secretary), Islamiyat Adesola

(Public Relations Officer), Charity Fagade (Treasurer) and Owoyemi Ajoke (Social Secretary).

Adetunji, while thanking all members for their support and trust, said the task of rebuilding the branch has just begun.

He said fostering unity and peace in the branch is the new executive’s main task.“All the electioneering promises would be fulfilled,” he said, adding that he is set to reposition the branch as one of the best bar associations in the country.

•Dele Adesina (SAN) (middle) with his friends at the event.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

PAGE 29

Kano relishes lawmaker’s gesture •PAGE 30

Kaduna revives food processing factory •PAGE 31

•A crowded Terminus Roundabout, Jos

T

Insecurity: Plateau shuts major streets

HE last time the terrorists struck in Jos, the Plateau State capital, on May 20, they chose a crowded part of Murtala Muhammed Way. Over 100 people died in the twin blasts, many more injured. A large number of people were either buying or selling on one of the city’s four major business streets at the time of the explosions. That is why the state government and the security authorities have closed the major streets to trading. The affected routes are Murtala Muhammed Way, Ahmadu Bello way, Rwang Pam Street and Tafawa Balewa Street, which are usually busy round the clock.

The terrorists set off two bombs on Murtala Mohammed Way targeting the crowd. The explosions brought down most of the shops along the street.

Why was there such a huge crowd there in the first place? It is one of the major streets near the sprawling site of the burnt ultramodern Terminus Market. Since the market was not rebuilt,

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

former shop owners and others found business space anywhere they could, provided it was near the famous market site. The traders’ crowd began to spread to nearby streets, Murtala Mohammed Way being one of them. Old Bukuru Park and Bauchi Road also host the influx.

As a result, security agencies had to cordon off the affected streets for weeks. Following the closure of business activities on Murtala Muhammed Way, traders who survived the blasts relocated their business to the next street, Ahmadu Bello Way. In a few weeks there was another heavy concentration of people at Ahmadu Bello Way, triggering concern that in the event of another attack on that street, there could be more casualties.

The threat of a suicide attack led to a temporary closure of some of the adjoining streets by security agencies when it was rumoured that some Improvised Explosive

Devices or IEDs may have been planted there. The military operations lasted almost a whole day.

Affected streets include Murtala Mohammed Way, Ahmadu Bello Way, Beach Road, Bank Road, Yantaya Junction, ECWA Good News Road, Old Bukuru Junction, Terminus Junction, Rwang Pam Street, Kashim Ibrahim Junction by Ahmadu Bello Way, Ahmadu Bello Way (including Hamaz and Unity Bank Junction), Murtala Mohammed Way (University of Jos old campus), and Beach Road by Zenith Bank.

The Special Task Force (STF) on Jos crisis, codenamed ‘Operation Safe Haven’ which led the military operation on these streets, said, “While the STF will not relent on its part to ensure that peace is achieved and this phase passes quickly, it relies on the provision of prompt information to ensure that no group of terrorists will cause harm to the populace.”

Though the security agencies refused to disclose their findings in the military operation, it was learnt

that a number of high-capacity explosives were evacuated from the streets during the exercise.

But as soon as the military operations were over the traders returned to the streets for business.

This has compelled the security agencies in collaboration with the state government to contemplate applying force to decongest the city centre. The state police command had earlier issued a quit notice to all traders around the Terminus Market. This was followed by an announcement by the state government that a task force was about to start evacuating traders from the troubled zone.

State Commissioner for Information, Olivia Dazyem at a media briefing, said, “The general public will recall that in the aftermath of the last bomb blast in Jos and other security challenges, the Plateau State government came up with some measures aimed at ensuring safety and promoting peace and security within the Jos city centre.

These include the ban on street trad•Continued on page 30

N3tr Centenary City shapes up •PAGE 33

Another lunge at the image challenge •PAGE 34

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

30

THE NORTH REPORT

Kano relishes lawmaker’s gesture T HE classroom blocks he built have brought run-down schools back to life. Water is available in many communities, thanks to him. To the less privileged, he has brought hope. That is why Kano North senatorial district adores Senate Chief Whip, Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo.

A resident of the area, Malam Hamisu said, “for us in Kano North Senatorial District, Senator Gwarzo remain irreplaceable because he is a caring and loving father of all. In fact, there is no community in this Senatorial District that has not benefited from Senator Gwarzo’s benevolence,” he said, adding that Senator Gwarzo’s excellent performance has become the reason why people of the district, irrespective of party affiliation, insisted that he must continue to represent them since 1999.

By the execution of numerous laudable projects, Senator Gwarzo, according to the people of his District, has positively touched the lives of the less privileged in the district. He has installed over 400 water handpumps, as well as sunk solar-powered boreholes spread across the 13 local overnment areas of the district, just as he has built not less than 200 classroom blocks and a college for girls in Gwarzo town.

Other projects initiated and executed by the lawmaker, adjudged to be the longest serving senator in his constituency from 1999 to date, include water supply to Janguza Jumaat mosque, including Bukavu barracks.

Also, Senator Gwarzo has established a foundation in his constituency, which provides free healthcare medical services, as well as the sponsorship of football tournaments and the construction of feeder roads to link remote villages within his constituency.

To ensure hitch-free potable water •Continued from page 29 ing, operation of illegal motor parks and indiscriminate parking of vehicles along major streets in the city centre.

“Also government had earlier placed a ban on the operation of commercial motorcycles within the greater Jos Master Plan Areas.

“In order for all stakeholders to appreciate the gravity of our security challenges, government and security chiefs met with leaders of traders Association and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) on the 25th of June 2014. At the meeting, it was resolved that the streets within Jos city center should be cleared of illegal traders, hawkers and motor parks and indiscriminate parking of vehicles be stopped to avoid a repeat of the collateral damages to lives and properties that accompanied the 20th May 2014 twin bomb blasts.

“Based on this resolution, a task force was on the same day inaugurated by the state commissioner of police to enforce the ban.

“Since then, security chiefs have been monitoring closely the security situation in the state as there have been threats of security breach. The strengthening of the task force has become urgent and necessary.

“It is based on this that the Pla-

In his capacity as a party leader, Senator Gwarzo during festive periods, distributes foodstuff, comprising millet, bags of rice, textile materials (Sheda) to both men and women, as well as cows and rams to communities and at the conclusion of the fasting period, he breaks fast with his constituent members

‘

•Items distributed by Senator Gwarzo From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

supply to all residents of his constituency, Senator Gwarzo constructed earth dams, including community halls, built in Gwarzo, Shanono, and Danbatta which has the capacity to accommodate not less than 500 people, just as he also initiated the construction of Kunchi-Lamba-

Kazaure Federal road project. Already, Senator Gwarzo has commenced preparations for both the fasting and Sallah periods, as he has concluded arrangements to hold meetings with party leaders, stakeholders and members and will during the meeting unfold his plans to distribute rams and Sallah gifts to members of his constituency to mark

the festive period.

In his capacity as a party leader, Senator Gwarzo during festive periods, distributes foodstuff, comprising millet, bags of rice, textile materials (Sheda) to both men and women, as well as cows and rams to communities and at the conclusion of the fasting period, he breaks fast with his constituent members. In his

determination to add value to the quality of life in rural communities in his constituency, Senator Gwarzo embarked on rural electrification projects, particularly in areas like, Dunawa town in Mokoda Local Government Area, electrification of Dambatta to Masallachi in Dambatta Local Government Area, Gwanda village in Dambatta and Dukawa viallage also in Dambatta Local Government Area.

Other areas that benefited from the rural electrification projects include Maiganji village, Tsaraka village, including 15 other villages and towns, all which are located in Dambatta, Gabasawa, Tsanyawa LGA, Bichi Rimin Gado and Kunchi Local Government Areas. For the sustenance of power supply, Senator Gwarzo also sponsored the construction of 33/11 KVA transmission line from Kkankia to Bichi Local Government Area, just as he also embarked on Solar street illumination projects, covering 11 Local government Areas, among which are Getso town in Gwarzo Local Government Area and Shanono town in Shanono Local Government Area.

For the stable supply of potable water for both human and animal consumption, Senator Gwarzo also embarked on motorised borehole •Continued on page 32

Plateau shuts major streets teau State police command has put the general public on notice that the task force is set to swing into action immediately. For example, operators of illegal motor parks, illegal traders, and motorists engaged in illegal parking around Terminus areas down to Plateau Riders, Ahmadu Bello Way, Tafawa Balewa, ECWA Good News, Old Bukuru Park, Murtala Muhammed Way, Rwang Pam Street, and Gangeri road are strongly advised to comply.

“Shop owners along the mentioned areas and other motorists are also advised to find alternative areas to park their vehicles.

“I also wish to inform occupants of the JMDB shopping complex along Murtala Muhammed Way that experts from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development have declared the facilities unsafe.

This is due to the impact of the 29th May bomb blasts. Those renting shops at the complex are advised to contact JMDB and the Ministry of Commerce for further directives. For the avoidance of doubt, alternative shops are available at the Kwararafa New Market and the Kabong Satellite Market.

“I wish to say here that all these measures are in no way punitive

aimed at ensuring public safety, sanity, economic prosperity and the general well being of all people.

“Therefore, I wish to solicit the support, cooperation and understanding of all to make Jos the hub of business and an example of pla-

‘

teau state being the undisputed home of peace and tourism.

With this development, the famous Jos business streets are gone for fear of Boko Haram. But the affected traders are not pleased with the enforcement of the ban.

Chinedu Onu who owns a shop at

As soon as the military operations were over the traders returned to the streets for business. This has compelled the security agencies in collaboration with the state government to contemplate applying force to decongest the city centre.

The state police command

‘

the affected streets said, “In as much as we don’t want suicide bombers to seek the opportunity of heavy traffic of people and strike, we don’t also want government to close this market because everybody in the city prefers to shop here; people are not used to the alternative market where they are forcing us to go” Most of the women who sell vegetables along the streets are not happy either. They said their family depends on the little gain they make from their petty trade.

Esther Marcus said, “Instead of driving us from the street, they are supposed to provide security for us, if we leave here we will never have space in the new markets, government is just punishing us” It was tough for motorists as the task force moved out to enforce the ban, almost all the streets within the city centre were cordoned off to keep traders away. Motorists were left with few roads to ply and the traffic gridlock was another terrible experience for citizens.had earlier issued a quit notice to all traders around the Terminus Market. This was followed by an announcement by the state government that a task force was about to start evacuating traders from the troubled zone.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

31

THE NORTH REPORT

W

HAT does Kaduna State get from its abundant tomatoes? Pretty little indeed.

Its farmers are among the largest producers of the crop in the country, yet neither the growers nor the state have reaped bountifully from it. Every year, most of the farmers’ harvest is wasted. Why? Only a fraction of what is produced is sold or consumed, and there are no storage facilities. In season, a basket of tomatoes is sold for as little as N2,500.

Has the state always ignored this challenge? No. The establishment of the Ikara Food Company by the state government was meant to put to use the tomato produced in commercial quantity in the area. But like many other state-owned firms across the country, the food company whose idea was mooted by the government of Alhaji Abdulkadir Balarabe Musa in the Second Republic remained dormant since its inauguration by former military president, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida during the Tanko Ayuba regime.

It was Balarabe Musa who saw the need to tap into the vast potentials available in the state to create jobs for the teeming youths. But the company never took off before he was impeached and it remained a dream until the Tanko Ayuba military government revived and completed the project. It was commissioned by General Ibrahim Babangida at an elaborate ceremony where the civilian government of the late Alhaji Mohammed Dabo Lere was introduced to the people of the state. The commissioning of the plant was among the last activities of the Tanko Ayuba government in the state before handing over the reign of government to Alhaji Dabo Mohammed Lere.

The Ikara Food Processing Company is back, under a Public Private Partnership, which some reckon will ensure that the tomatoes produced

T

•Governor Ramalan Yero (second right) and officials of the company signing the agreement

Kaduna revives food processing factory From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

in the state are no longer wasted.

The state deputy governor hinted earlier on the reopening of the factory when he told reporters that the government had concluded negotiations with a foreign firm to take over the company on a PPP arrangement as part of government’s effort to generate employment and improve the revenue base of the government.

Governor Mukthar Ramalan Yero said while handing over the company to the new owners, Springfield Agro Limited that the move was part of his administration’s commitment to continuity and actualization of all projects initiated by past administrations in the State. Governor Yero said “our administration remains focused in achieving the objective of boosting investment by encouraging pri-

vate sector participation, in the economic growth and development of the State. As you may be aware the State Government is fashioning out its Policy Framework on Investment, Commerce & Industry (PFI&CI), tailored towards providing the much needed enabling environment for private investors to do business with

‘

The Ikara Food Processing Company is back, under a Public Private Partnership, which some reckon will ensure that the tomatoes produced in the state are no longer wasted

‘

Lawmaker donates buses to Kwara PDP

HE senator representing Kwara South at the National Assembly, Simeon Ajibola, has donated four Sienna buses to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to aid its campaign for the 2015 elections.

It was gathered that three of the buses are meant for the party secretariats in the three senatorial districts of the state and one in the state’s party secretariat in Ilorin, the state capital.

The senator also gave out 950 bags of rice as Ramadan gifts to members of the party in all the wards in the 16 local government areas of the state.

Speaking during the presentation of the materials in Ilorin, the state chair of the party, Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo represented by the publicity secretary, Chief Rex Kolawole, also announced the donation of another bus to the party by Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Makanjuola Ajadi.

He said that the donation would put the party in good stead for the task ahead in 2015.

He also said that one of the political leaders in the state, Senator Gbemisola Saraki, also donated bags of rice for distribution to party members in the state.

Akogun Oyedepo, who enjoined other politicians in the state to always reach out to people in their areas towards endearing them to ideals and programmes of the party, said that politicians who is out to serve his people must be prepared to sacri-

ease in Kaduna State. Apart from tomato, Kaduna State is blessed with other important crops, such as maize, cassava, ginger, groundnut, and mineral resources, whose value-chain development could be a source of employment for our teeming unemployed youths, create wealth and reduce poverty. We are committed to

supporting MSMEs, who would venture into agro processing, so as to take full advantage of this.”

An elated Yero said that the state government was negotiating with other foreign investors with a view to ensuring that other state owned companies are put into productive use. He stressed that as a way of explore the value chain advantage of the crops available in the state, negotiations have reached advance stage with potential partners towards reopening the Makarfi Sugar Company, the Kachia Ginger Processing Company, the Zaria Pharmaceutical Company and Kafanchan Flour Mills. He said “apart from tomato, Kaduna State is blessed with other important crops such as maize, cassava, ginger, groundnut, and mineral resources, whose value-chain devel•Continued on page 32

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

fice for the people.

He expressed gratitude to Senator Ajibola for the gesture, promising to put the vehicles and other materials to good use and for welfare of the party supporters.

The donor, who was represented by one of his associates, Elder John Yusuf, said the items were part of the pledges made by the lawmaker during the fund raising programme organised by the party recently.

He described Senator Ajibola as a loyal party man, who had never wavered in his support for the PDP in the state.

At another empowerment programme and distribution of food items to members in Offa and Oyun local government areas of the state, the PDP was optimistic that the senator’s gesture could bring victory for the party in the 2015 general elections in the state.

The PDP chairman in Oyun Local Government Area, Taiye Olaniyi, commended the lawmaker’s efforts in reaching out to members in 193 wards in the state.

The party chairman urged other chieftains of the party in the state to emulate development strides of the lawmaker, saying that the assistance of every PDP leader to members during Ramadan would help sustain party structure towards achieving success.

He also used the occasion to implore party members to go out in

From left: Senator Simeon Ajibola’s representative, Elder John Yusuf, member of Kwara PDP executive council, its publicity secretary, Chief Rex Kolawole (with the keys) and others at the presentation of the buses large number and participate in voters’ registration exercise, saying that was the only way they could justify their support for the party during the election.

Hon. Olaniyi also appealed to all PDP governorship aspirants in the state not to take politics as do or die affair, saying that God bestows power to whoever He likes and advised that the party should support

whoever emerges as candidate.

Also speaking, Senator S S Ajibola, who was represented by his special assistant on Legislative Matters, Alhaji Fatai Akorede, charged the wards leaders to always play the politics of inclusiveness, saying the current situation of the party in the state calls for cohesion of all stakeholders.

“The victory we are are clamouring

for can only be achieved if we all work together as one to ensure victory for the party come 2015,” he added.

Akorede also said that Senator Ajibola had always support the mobilization of the party members during the local government congresses, adding that the lawmaker always loved to assist people at the grassroots.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT

Lab technicians hail Ahmed’s T health plan

•Governor Ahmed

HE Kwara State branch of the Association of Laboratory Technicians and Assistants of Nigeria (AMELTAN) have praised Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed’s administration for the renovating and remodelling five General Hospitals in Ilorin, Omu-Aran, Offa, Share and Kaiama.

The general hospitals cover the three senatorial districts of the state.

AMELTAN appealed to the state government to start paying call-duty allowance for their member’s working day and night in the state.

AMELTAN also wants its members especially those working with the Community Health Insurance Scheme placed on permanent appointment.

The state chair of AMELTAN, Elder

Bandipo Olusanyan made the demand in Ilorin, the state capital at the association’s 3-days conference He equally sought for the recruitment and posting of “our members to local government health facilities in the state.

Said he: “Apart from this, the state of art medical equipment purchase, improved staff welfare including prompt payment of salaries, payment of consolidated health salary structure, release of promotion and extension of community health in-

surance have endeared the governor to our heart.

“The same gesture also extended to smaller health centres, Iwo Cottage Hospital, Omupo Cottage Hospital and Edidi Health Centre are part of good work executed to serve our people.

“We also appreciate the state governor for the sustainable peace and harmony that provides the platform for us all to operate in Kwara state.

The massive infrastructural provision and pace of development has helped our association to live up to expectation.”

fabric of the society where somebody is going to school and you are not sure of his safety and security. It creates a lot of questions. So the earlier government sees it as a major problem, as a cankerworm the better for the educational sector of the country.

“You can imagine the plight of parents of the affected schools and even those who are not parents, because what is happening there can happen elsewhere; so it is an issue that must be holistically confronted otherwise it might affect the very fabric of education in the country.”

On the centenary celebration, the association president said that “situation of things in most schools in Nigeria now are not as they used to be in the years back and as stakeholders we think we have a gap to fill to complement same in the government efforts.

“It behooves on every responsible person of the old boys to rise to the occasion; to see that missing gaps that exist. We have a vibrant

old boys; so we have been trying to identify critical areas we can intervene as save our school, so that we can restore lost glory.

“The celebration will stretch for a week starting from the October 23rd to November 1st of this year.

Basically, we intend to mobilize our members and our well wishers as well to assist us in filling the gaps so that name and glory of the schools can be maintained. This has been the driving motive for us.

“The first intervention is the one that will directly affect the academic attitude of the students. In the olden days if you were a student of that school you were almost certain of coming out well. The magic was simply that the school was well equipped. We are also looking at getting the laboratories well equipped; getting decent classrooms for the school for teaching to more interesting and upgrading of information technology centre (ICT) of the school etc Perimeter fencing of the school.”

Nation that the leasing of the company was a step in the right direction. He wondered why it has taken the state government such a long time to realise the potentials available in the area and the need to reopen the factory. He noted that although government has no business running companies, the decision to give the company to private investors was commendable and implores them to hasten negotiation with investors so that the other companies can be reopened. He said “as you know, Kaduna has one of the best gingers in the world and the ginger factor has established by the state government had never been put to productive use. If you go to the southern part of the state, you will see large quantity of ginger wasting and the farmers keep cultivating with-

out benefiting adequately from what they cultivate. The same thing applies to the people of Ikara and environs who farm tomato. Before now, you will see a lot of tomato wasting, but with the reopening of the factory, the farmers will have a ready market for their tomato”.

Some of the farmers in the area spoken to expressed happiness about the reopening of the factory. One of them, Mohammed Ikara said “I am happy that this factory will soon begin to work. I will have a good market for my tomato now. Before now, we use to sell at a very cheap rate so that they will not waste. But now, I am sure that we will make some good money from our sweat. Our boys too will have jobs to do and our area will be opened as many people will be coming here to do business.”

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

Alumni’s N1b for Kwara schools

T

HE Old Boys of Government Secondary School, Ilorin (GSS) have a great plan for their alma mater, which is counting down to its centenary celebrations.

They are giving the school N1 billion for its infrastructural development.

The National President of the alumni association, Alhaji Nurudeen Alabi told reporters yesterday in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital, adding that the old boys would intervene in the refurbishment of classrooms, building of upgrading of the school information technology centre (ICT) etc.

He also urged old boys associations in the country to complement government efforts in the educational sector by giving back to their alma mater.

This to him is the way out of the parlous state of the country’s educational sector.

Alhaji Alabi decried the rising insecurity in parts of the country, say-

Kaduna revives food processing factory

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

ing it is capable of threatening the educational fabric of Nigeria.

Said he: “The decay in infrastructural facilities in schools is a nationwide problem in Nigeria. The way out is for all who have benefited from the schools to rise up to the occasion by assisting government in giving back to their alma mater.

“Government alone cannot do it because there are so many areas of contending needs. So the old boys are the prime movers in addressing the decay; thereafter they also identify all the stakeholders.

“The issue of insecurity in parts of the country is certainly a threat to the educational sector. The way out is for our leaders to have the political will because mere wish to solve the problem may not be the way out. Of course every member of the society should rise to the occasion because this is a challenge that can threaten the very

•Continued from page 31 opment could be a source of employment for our teeming unemployed youths, create wealth and reduce poverty. We are committed to supporting MSMEs, who would venture into agro processing, so as to take full advantage of this”.

The governor asked the operators of the Ikara Tomato Company; Messrs Springfield Agro Limited to revamp the company as contained in the agreement entered with the State Government saying “I must congratulate Springfield Agro Ltd for emerging successful out of many Companies that bid for Ikara Food Processing Company Limited. Your selection was purely based on merit, and we hope you will not let the State Government and the people down.

It is also pertinent to inform Springfield Agro Ltd that, though Ikara Food Processing Company Limited was established 33 years ago, it is still in good condition and operational. It is therefore your responsibility to ensure proper maintenance culture of the factory, machinery and equipment. It is now your responsibility to properly secure facilities at this factory against theft and vandalism.

Above all, the Lease Agreement that was signed today should be strictly adhered to for the benefit of both parties in the agreement.”

The Nation gathered that the company has an installed capacity for processing of 16,950 tons of tomato, 5,760

•The Ikara Food Company facilities tons of mangos, 5,120 tons of oranges and 780 tons of pineapple per annum which are to be sourced locally. The factory also has 700 hectares of land purposely for tomato farming.

The state Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Joshua Shekarau Uchissa said the leasing of the company was a step in the right direction, adding it is expected to generate employment, create business activities and boost farming. Managing Director of Kewalram Group, owners of Springfield Agro Limited, Mr. Tarun K. Das expressed the commitment of his company to ensuring the viability of the company. He said that the management were committed to reviving the company and will immediately move into action.

An agricultural expert and environmentalist, Shedrack Madlion told The

Kano relishes lawmaker’s gesture

•Continued from page 30 projects, providing water to towns like, Dawakin Tofa, to Butu Butu in Rimin Gado Local Government Area, as well as in Bagwai and Dogo towns in Makoda Local Government Areas. Apart from that, Senator Gwarzo, who has the interest of the less privileged at heart also embarked on solar powered boreholes and constructed such boreholes in U/Gara, Gabasawa Local Government Areas, including 58 other Local Government Areas, as well as initiation of irrigation projects, especially meant for dry season farming to ensure an allyear round provision of water for the health growth of vegetables and assorted crops for human consumption.

Also, Senator Gwarzo embarked on similar projects, like hand pump borehole water supply, covering so many local government areas, just as he also embarked on road construction/Rehabilitation projects to ensure easy accessibility to towns and villages within Kano North Senatorial District. And to ensure a healthy society, Senator Gwarzo also embarked on the construction of not less than 23 Health centres, prominent among which are Makoda Health Centre, Shuwaki Health Centre, Dumbulim Health Centre in Tsanyawa among others scattered across 23 locations for easy accessibility fo healthcare facility for a health living.

In order to teach members of his immediate constituency how to fish but not to providing them with fish all of the time, Senator Gwarzo embarked on the construction of less than 31 conducive classroom blocks for pupils and students, so as to learn how to fish, so as to desist from depending on Government for their basic needs and become self-sufficient.

Some of the projects Gwarzo initiated and sponsored are the construction of classroom blocks in Gabasawa, Dambatta, Makoda, Kunchi, Tsanyawa, Bichi, Bagwai and Shanono.

Others are in Gwarzo, Kabo, Rimin Gado, Tofa and Dawakin Tofa, as well as the construction of Girls Science College in Gwarzo, including the provision of solar street lights, small Earth’s Dam construction, as well as feeder roads within the vicinity of the Kano North West Senatorial District. Based on his impressive performance, members of his constituency have been and still clamouring for him to contest and continue in 2015, promising that they will collectively cast their votes for him to ensure continuity in the Senate, so as to continue to adequately represent their interest.

Members of his constituency have been and still commending his efforts in ensuring their welfare, pointing out that not too long ago, Senator Gwarzo in his magnanimity shared so many cows to various communities, with which to mark one of the Sallah festivity.

Within the last four years, Senator Gwarzo has spent not less than N5 billion in the execution of various human-oriented projects for members of his immediate constituency and beyond.

For the people of Kano North Senatorial District, Senator Gwarzo has consistently impacted positively on their lives, an indication that whoever challenges him in 2015 may have a tough fight.

TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

•The Centenary City model

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OT everyone agrees that clocking 100 years is enough reason to throw a party. There are too many challenges to indulge in such frolic, some argue. The nation, they say, has yet to find its footing in so many respects and insecurity remains a growing threat. Why celebrate?

President Goodluck Jonathan believes there is cause for joy. One reason he puts forward is that 100 hundred years after it was named, Nigeria has not broken up into different nations.

The Northern and Southern protectorates were amalgamated by the colonial authorities on January 1, 1914. It was then that Nigeria’s journey to nationhood began.

The president believes that Nigerians should be celebrating their determination to excel and remain one. And to solidify his convictions, he promised that a Centenary City would be built to mark the feat. That promise was made during the celebrations in February.

The City is now taking shape.

Located between the Airport and the main city of Abuja, the Centenary City, built on top of a hill, will forever be remembered by all even generations yet unborn.

At the groundbreaking and unveiling ceremony, President Jonathan said the city will be a place where nobody will own a power generating set or build a personal borehole as every infrastructural facility needed to make live comfortable will be in place.

The cost of the city is put at N2.976tr ($18.6 billion).

A total of N1.2bn, being 100 per

Page 33

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

N3tr Centenary City shapes up ‘ From Gbenga Omokhunu

cent compensation has been paid for economic trees to the original inhabitants as well as structures belonging to some non-natives. The city sits on 1,200 hectares of land.

Twenty per cent of the plots are earmarked for residential houses, while the remaining 80 per cent are for mixed use and for commercial purposes.

The city is expected to incorporate a free trade zone, duty-free regime, tax holidays and non-regulated banking services. These are part of government’s efforts to boost trade and investment in Nigeria, which in turn, would create thousands of job opportunities for Nigerians.

The Federal Government hopes to replicate the successes achieved in Dubai, Monaco, Shenzhen (China), Singapore and Songdo (South Korea).

President Jonathan, who was elated that the establishment of the city is happening during his regime said: “I am indeed delighted to be part of history at today’s groundbreaking and unveiling ceremony of the Centenary City, Abuja.

“In all, the joyful reflections and re-awakening shared by the nation, through this year-long commemoration of our amalgamation, there may, perhaps be no greater symbol of the spirit of our determination than this city that unfolds before us.

At the groundbreaking and unveiling ceremony, President Jonathan said the city will be a place where nobody will own a power generating set or build a personal borehole as every infrastructural facility needed to make live comfortable will be in place “Let me commend the leadership of great men like the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar who accepted to chair the Board of the Centenary City Plc. I am pleased to state that the successes of such cities as Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, Shenzhen in the Peoples’ Republic of China and the Songdo International Business District in South Korea had shown that the development of a themed city is a strong social, political and economic tool for securing foreign investment, promoting positive international attention and heralding new national economic renaissance.

‘

“Offering free trade status, outstanding infrastructure, secured business environment and efficient transport services, this Centenary City promises a unique and innovative global standard in real estate creativity. I will be happy to see a city where there will be no personally-owned power generating set and borehole.

“I am very pleased that our Centenary City has been designed by a reputable world-class design team as an efficient “mixed-use” City with emphasis on modernity and Nigeria’s distinctive cultural heritage, ably integrating contemporary demands and future expectations

into a working scheme that will allow the city develop in a sustainable and socially-responsive manner.

“It is important that the outcome will be a modern city where natural beauty and architectural ingenuity will merge to create an environment, alive and productive, with many unique sub-themes including a prominent cultural core with various symbols of Nigeria’s unity and strength, a green-city concept, as well as Presidential Archives that will house the history of our political development.

“This will be a revolutionary approach to urbanisation in Africa and will, through its private ownership, promote the private sector’s participation in projects of significant magnitude. It will also represent a landmark of professional excellence for all branches of the development team.

“It is my determination to make the Centenary City a sustainable and viable economic project, providing not just the best infrastructure and facilities, but also an example in urban management, maintenance and security. It will remain totally a business venture, owned and managed by private business people and investors, but government shall continue to be the vision driver, providing the necessary, •Continued on page 34

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

34

ABUJA REVIEW

•Prof Obiozor speaking at NOHP launch

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O one has quite explained the perennial paradox. How can a country be so endowed, yet so derided? Some reckon that Nigerians are among the best brains in the world and that few can boast of its natural resources, yet no one is in doubt that their country is a great way from the league of developed nations. The international community and its media also do not seem to have such a great opinion of the country.

Successive governments have tried to address this challenge without much success. President Olusegun Obasanjo did his bit. So, too, did President Umaru Yar’Adua. President Goodluck Jonathan has taken a shot at it. His administration has launched the ‘Nigeria our heritage’ project.

The Minister of Culture, Tourism, and National Orientation at the presentation of the new project in Abuja, said government will reverse the negative perception of the international media through the promotion of tourism and cultural heritage. The government said it would overhaul the nation’s global image and promote tourism for the patriotic purposes of creating wealth for national development and securing international trust for foreign investment.

Duke further explained that the tourism innovation would restore a positive perception for Nigeria as an emerging international hub for business in the next century. According to him, the western media does not see anything positive about Nigeria, hence their consistent negative reports, adding that Nigerians all over the world have stretched the boundary of creativity, but this is not appreciated by purveyors of negativity against the country.

He said: “In the last few months, there has been a global conspiracy against Nigeria; a lot of indignity has been dished to the leadership and humiliation to the country by western media;

Another lunge at the image challenge From Frank Ikpefan

Nigerians have stretched the boundaries of creativity and stretched milestones, there is a need for a new story of Nigeria to begin.

“To us, part of the strategy is to create and brighten the image of our country while encouraging Nigerians to re-invigorate their hope and commitment to the Nigerian project.”

The minister explained that his ministry has adopted the project being sponsored by some private individuals under government’s policy on Public Private Partnership.

He observed that countries like South Africa and Rwanda were able to erase the negative perceptions against them while Nigeria with a population of about 160 million people was still being vilified by the international media. He appealed to Nigerians to work hard to change the negative perception about the country by believing in the nation and having confidence that it could be greater.

Duke stated that the ministry would

work with the ”Nigeria, our Heritage Project” initiators to overhaul the nation’s image and promote its tourism and cultural heritage using such platforms as the creative and performing arts, National Council for Arts and Culture, literatures and others to drive the project. He said the 744 local governments in the country will be used to showcase the much-desired change

‘

through festivals.

The project would, among other things; chronicle Nigeria’s past and present while projecting progressive initiatives for the future that will create access for international interests and investment in potential business opportunities in Nigeria and re-define Nigeria as a world leading nation through development of leadership in-

Through the ‘Nigeria, our heritage’ project, we shall celebrate the rich cultural inheritance and vast economic endowment of Nigeria as well as the large market the country offers. We recognise the bright future of Nigeria as a rising business destination in the continent of Africa; above all, we recognise the impact that a rebranded Nigeria, collectively supported by all Nigerians, will have on businesses, the economy, and our people

stitutions and frontier schemes.

The project will also put Nigeria first in Africa. It promises to make the nation the giant in business, a haven for investors through tourism, while projecting the culture and reshaping the image of the country. It also seeks to bring prominence to the nation’s local languages.

It will engender a new and positive global perception of Nigeria such that Nigeria would be enabled internally and externally to realise her full potential. It is about what and where Nigeria should be 100 years from now. The core essence of that dream is that Nigeria should be one of the top five economies in the world by the year 2114.

Duke said, “Through the ‘Nigeria, our heritage’ project, we shall celebrate the rich cultural inheritance and vast economic endowment of Nigeria as well as the large market the country offers.

We recognise the bright future of Nigeria as a rising business destination in the continent of Africa; above all, we recognise the impact that a rebranded Nigeria, collectively supported by all Nigerians, will have on businesses, the economy, and our people.

‘ N3tr Centenary City shapes up

•Continued from page 33 conducive investment and functional environment.

“In many ways, this legacy project also marks a coming of age and a new chapter in our efforts for greater involvement of the private sector in major development projects. I therefore commend and congratulate the

Promoter Investors, for putting their money and trust in this initiative and welcome other captains of industry who shall be investing in the Centenary City.

“I commend, especially Eagle Hills LLC and Nael and Bin Harmal Hydroexport (NBHH) both of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Julius Berger International of Ger-

•From left: Director-General National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Alhaji Mohammadu Sani Sidi, Minister of State for Education Onyeso Wike, Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Zainab Maina, Chairman Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, publisher of Thisday Newspaper, Nduka Obaigbena and Vice-President Namadi Sambo at the inauguration of Presidential Committee on Save School Initiative by the President at the State House Abuja.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

many for their confidence in Nigeria, and pledge that my administration will continue to provide you and other investors in our country the necessary support to sustain your investments.”

Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, (rtd) who is the chairman of the Centenary City Plc, noted that the project can be successful only if peace reigns in all parts of the country.

“Therefore, I call on Nigerians to ensure they maintain peace across the country and ensure that this project is concluded as planned. This is historic and we will not leave any stone unturned to achieve success,” he said.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim said the Centenary City with 1, 262.27 hectares of land size ranks as the biggest present city development in the world.

He said the city being a free trade zone, is going to be one of the few cities in the world that have that status.

He said: “It is revolutionary; it is visionary as well transformational.

It is the new approach to attracting foreign direct investment.

“Mr. President, you will recall that in your speech during the flag-off ceremony of the Centenary celebrations on February 4, 2014, you promised the nation that what will come out of the celebration is a green city to be known as a Centenary City.

You also directed that the city should be developed to achieve two main goals. The first is to provide a centre

to collect, document and showcase the contributions of Nigerians to the cultural, political, social and economic development of the world in the last 100 years. The second is to develop a centre of excellence in service delivery, in financing a sector and ensure diverse economic activities with excellent world-class infrastructural facilities that will promise business, leisure, sports and tourism.

“These directives became a road map for the committee to realise your ambition for the Centenary City. Accordingly, the Centenary City is not only to manifest a milestone contribution for Nigeria but also to create an economic forum that will create thousands of jobs, attract foreign investments while catering for the modern day living needs of the teeming population of Abuja.

“It is in line with this concept that the Centenary City is planned to host about 500, 000 individuals who may be workers, businessmen, shoppers, tourists, sports lovers and so on. The planned residential component of the city is only to support the economic activity and to ensure human presence round the clock.

“I want to emphasise that the Centenary City project is not a housing estate. It is an economic project. It is important to note that the Centenary City project is being promoted

by Centenary City Plc; a company composed of investors from Nigeria and abroad.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

ABUJA REVIEW

•From left: President Goodluck Jonathan, former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida; former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar; Vice-President Namadi Sambo, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim during the National Council of State meeting at the Presidential Villa.

•From left: Kaduna State Governor, Alhaji Murkthar Ramalan Yero; Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh during the inauguration of a water treatment plant at Kargo Dam in Kaduna.

PHOTOS: AKIN OLADOKUN

35

•From left: Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Abdu Bulama; Minister of Niger Delta Development, Stephen Orise Oru; Minister of State for Works, Adebayo Adeleye, and Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau taking the oath of office at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

•Minister of Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga (left); Managing Director, Nigerian Commodity Exchange, Yusuf Abdurrahim and Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Yinka Sanni at the launch of Electronic Warehouse Receipt System in Abuja.

•From right: Representative of First Lady, Minister of State for the FCT, Oloye OlajumokeAkinjide; wife of Benue State governor, Mrs. Dooshima Suswan and Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswan at the donation of relief materials to victims of the recent crisis in the state.

•President, Business Initiative Direction, Jose Prieto (left); Chief Executive Officer, Hatlab Ice-Cream Abuja, Mrs. Latifat Balogun and President of QC100, Mr. Craig Miller at the International Star for Leadership in Quality Award

•Executive Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Segun Awolowo(left); Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka and Executive Secretary, NEPC, Mrs. Saratu Umar at their investiture as Special Marshals at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission in Abuja.

•President, Chartered Institute of Treasury Management, Dr Emmanuel Chu Nwude (middle); Registrar, Adedoyin Olumide (left) and a council member, Dr Oghenegueke Anuya at a workshop on compliance on international public sector accounting standard in Abuja.

PHOTOS: ABAYOMI FAYESE

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

36

ABUJA REVIEW

N

IGERIAN sports not only appear to be in retreat but also back to the dark days.

While Nigerians were still sad that the Super Eagles could not go beyond the round of 16 in the justconcluded FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Nigeria, on Wednesday last week, was suspended by the world football governing body from taking part in any international sporting competition due to alleged government interference in the affairs of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Apart from competitions, neither the NFF nor any of its members or officials may benefit from any FIFA or CAF development programmes, courses or training during the suspension period.

The immediate casualty of the latest FIFA ban will be the Falconets, who will be prevented from participating in the forthcoming FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Canada slated from August 5 to 24, except the suspension is lifted on or before July 15, 2014.

Nigerians were already hoping that the Falconets would bring joy to them by doing what the boys could not do in Brazil.

If the ban is not lifted, Nigeria will also forfeit an U-17 African qualifier match billed for July 20 in Democratic Republic of Congo.

It is also sad that the Super Eagles players had issues with their match bonuses and welfare packages in Brazil, which many believed psychologically contributed to their early ouster from the competition.

Another sign that all may not be too well in the Nigerian sports was the FIFA suspension that came barely two hours after Sports Minister; Tamuno Danagogo gave assurance to Nigerians that Nigeria will escape the FIFA sledge-hammer.

This, among other issues, have continued to worry stakeholders in the sector who are wondering whether the minister is being misled by technocrats and civil servants who want him to fail on the assignment or that he is a square peg in a round hole.

Speaking with State House correspondents on Wednesday last week, few hours before the FIFA suspension, Danagogo said: “Nigeria is safe, I can tell you that.

What FIFA wants is for the right things to be done. So far, if you look at what has happened, I think government has been very fair.

Government has done everything possible not to unduly interfere.

“The chairmen of football associations and other stakeholders, who also didn’t want the Maigari

Nigerian sports in reverse? administration to continue, held their congress and the congress passed a no confident vote on that executive. That is not government’s action. It is strictly a decision of a majority of the stakeholders of football in the country.”

Worried about the saga over the bonuses and welfare packages of the Super Eagles in Brazil, the Sports Minister said: “ Really it is an unfortunate development. It is embarrassing that issues like that keep up cropping up each time African countries go to the world stage.

“When we got to Brazil and the players were grumbling and the grumbling is not just for this world cup, these boys are bitter that right from the World Cup in South Africa and the Confederation Cup, they had entitlements which they said FIFA paid to NFF out of which they ought to get their share. But I wasn’t in the know of all these until I got to Brazil.

“We know that the Federal Government paid every kobo that we needed. Mr. President approved the fund which was released as at when due. So we don’t need to have any problem. FIFA even gives money

From the Villa

By Augustine Ehikioya for the same things that the Federal Government released monies for and the players should get their money,” he said.

Even though the former DirectorGeneral of the National Sports Commission, Dr. Amos Adamu recently had issues with FIFA, such FIFA ban never came under his tenure and the many years he was in the sports sector. He always had a way of nipping any issue in the bud before it happens.

The FIFA ban also probably would never have come if the immediate past Sports Minister, Bolaji

Abdullahi had remained in the saddle.

One of the successes Abdullahi claimed to have achieved before he was removed from office on March 5, 2014, apart from winning many laurels for Nigeria, was bringing peace and harmony among the warring parties in the sector.

In March, Abdullahi, through his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Julius Ogunro said: “Abdullahi settled the almost fratricidal war in the Nigerian Football Federation by making all the parties involved in the crises agree to a comprehen-

sive peace deal.”

It is worrisome how Nigerian football has gone back to the era of warring groups and court cases.

Nigeria needs to urgently go back to the drawing board and try to chart a new course.

As a way forward, government should thoroughly investigate the matter and punish anybody involved in any fraudulent practice concerning Super Eagles’ bonuses as a deterrent to others in the future. The matter should not be swept under the carpet.

In the spirit of true democracy, it must also ensure it does not unduly interfere, whether directly or indirectly, in the affairs of the NFF in line with FIFA statute.

While it is good news that Amos Adamu is part of the Nigerian delegation to resolve the current FIFA ban, Nigeria must definitely find a way of going back to its winning ways because taking sports, especially football away from Nigerians’ social life is like taking everything away from them. Its unifying power cannot be overemphasised.

Minister bans power-bikes

P

OWER bikes are no more welcome at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) – no thanks to the bomb that killed 23 people and injured over 53.

FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed directed the Police Commissioner to prosecute any person illegally using power bikes and motorcycles.

The directive, according to a statement issued by the Assistant Director/Chief Press Secretary to the FCT Minister, Muhammad Sule which was conveyed to the FCT Police Commissioner via a letter dated June 27, 2014 but signed by the FCT Permanent Secretary, John Chukwu, reminded him that the ban on the use of power bikes and motorcycles in the FCT was still in force.

The minister said the reminder is underscored by the fact that one of the suspects in the recent bombing at the Emab Plaza, Wuse II District Abuja was seen on a power bike by security agents.

From Gbenga Omokhunu

The minister further directed that all security personnel using motorcycles should obtain permits from the FCT Commissioner of Police and the FCT Transportation Secretariat; in addition the officer should be properly kitted in their uniform and helmet.

According to the letter, the intention of the FCT Administration is to, as a matter of urgency; evolve necessary bye-laws and security protocols that will indicate minimal security requirements in private and public institutions as well as other congregational locations in the Federal Capital Territory for compliance and enforcement.

The administration, the minister said, will also embark on “know-your-neighbour campaign” as a strategy to promote neighbourhood security awareness among residents.

•From left: President Goodluck Jonathan, Acting Director, Pencom, Chinelo Amazu and Pencom co-Chairman Harry Smorenberg at the World Pension Summit, Africa Special at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15 , 2014

LAW & SOCIETY

L

Lawyers, social activists, others mourn Aturu

AWYERS, social activists, oth ers sympathisers have been visiting the residence/chambers of activist and Lagos lawyer, Bamidele Aturu, 49, who died last Wednesday to commiserate with his wife.

Until his death, Aturu was a leading human rights, labour and prodemocracy activist.

Among those who called at the deceased’s residence are the former Attorney-General of Ogun State, Mr. Wemimo Ogunde (SAN); eminent Professor of Law, Itse Sagay; Director-General, Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), Prof. Tunde Babawale; Professor of Entomology, Olukayode Bamgbose of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUAAB), Chairman, Agege Local Government, Hon. Jubreel Abdulkareem; Dirctor Centre for Free Speech, Richard Akinola; activist, Wale Ogunade; Coordinator, International Press Centre and former Lagos State Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lanre Arogundade and Segun AkaBasorun.

They paid tributes to the fallen lawyer.

Femi Adesina President, The Nigerian Guild of Editor, Femi Adesina expressed shock over the untimely death of the radical lawyer. Adesina in Lagos described the deceased as an activist par excellence who sacrificed his all for justice to the oppressed an downtrodden in the society.

He said the late lawyer will be remembered as a fearless activist who stood against military dictatorship and fought for the restoration of good governance and corrupt free society in the country.

“He was an activist par excellence.

Somebody who has been in the public glare since his university days and who kept faith in what he believed in to have just passed on like that is quite sad. It is even very sad because he passed on at the age of 49”.

“He will be remembered for his landmark strides the country especially in standing up for the rights of the downtrodden and oppressed in the society. He will also be remembered as an activist who voiced out his opinion against bad leadership and the entrenchment of good governance in Nigeria, His vital and incisive contributions to burning national issues can never be forgotten.

“We pray that God will comfort his family and colleagues and grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss” he said.

Mrs. Funke Adekoya(SAN) Mrs. Funke Adekoya (SAN) described the death of rights activist, Mr. Bamidele Aturu as shocking and

By Adebisi Onanuga and Toyosi Babatunde

unbelievable.

Adekoya said in a statement by Mr. Emeka Nwadioke, the Director of Publicity, Funke Adekoya Campaign Directorate, that Aturu’s passing is a huge loss to Nigerians.

“I received with shock and disbelief the passing of Mr. Bamidele Aturu,” said Adekoya.

“He was a foremost advocate for the rights of the common man. Aturu has not been afraid to take a position on anything that affects the rights of the Nigerian citizen. He has stood steadfastly against any encroachment on people’s or citizens rights. It is a loss not just to the human rights community; it is a loss to the civil society organisations; it is a loss to the Nigeria people.”

Dele Adesina (SAN) adesiona said: “I have just received with shock information that a shining light of our progressive bar in the person of Bamidele Francis Aturu passed on in Lagos. I beseech all members of the Bar to remember his family in prayers. This loss is irreplaceable. I am short of words for now. May God console his family and the Nigerian Bar Association.

Amen.”

Augustine Alegeh(SAN) The sudden demise of our learned colleague Bamidele Aturu is shocking and sad. He was a vibrant lawyer who never wavered in his commitment to serve the oppressed. I join in praying for the repose of his soul and for God to comfort his family during this difficult time.

Charles UwensuyiEdosomwan(SAN) Former Attorney General, Edo State, Charles UwensuyiEdosomwan (SAN) said the sudden death of Bamidele Aturu “is shocking, to say the least. He was a good lawyer that should have been a SAN. His was a credible voice that was never primed for self vending. He was honest to a fault and demonstrated uncommon courage whenever events called for it. His death is such a sad loss to a country that sorely needs honest discerning minds like that of the forgone Aturu. My heart goes out to his family”.

Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) The premature death of Bamidele Aturu is a big loss to the Bar in particular and the nation in general.

Aturu was very active in the human rights front as well as in the civil society. He was committed to the defence of the rights of workers in Nigeria and played a prominent role in the fight for the return to democratic governance in Nigeria. If he died from complications arising

from high blood pressure, then lawyers in Nigeria should take a cue from the incident and pay close attention to their health.

Monday Ubani His death is of monumental proportion to the human rights community in particular and to the country as a whole. He was a perfect gentleman, a zealous patriot and a change agent. He has been in the forefront of the fight against corruption and ineptitude of Nigerian leadership over the years. These fights and the Nigerian pathetic situation may have taken a toll on his health. His death is a cruel one and he will be greatly missed by many Nigerians young and old. We pray for the family for strength and absolute peace with God to bear this great loss. May his humble and gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Nurudeen Ogbara “Verily, with ALLAH alone is the knowledge of the Hour...”Qur’an 31:34.”To Allah we belong,and to HIM is our return.”Qur’an 2:156.I lost a brother,friend and comrade Bamidele Francis Aturu. Kindly pray for him,his aged parents,wife and children.BF, RIP! Ikechukwu Ikeji Activist, Ikechukwu Ikeji said Aturu”was a colossus that bestrode the landscape of justice in Nigeria. He was an iroko among the trees of the forest of the battle for the soul of of a better Nigeria. He was a General in the human rights community. He tried his best to add impetus to the fight against injustice and oppression. He died too young, leaving us all with mouths agape. I feel saddened by this irreplaceable loss, I feel helpless and overwhelmed by the reality of the fruitlesslessness of our stressful existence, an existence that holds nothing but a deep question of what happens to us all in the hereafter. Aturu’s death is a reminder that we should all mend fences with ourselves and God so that, in the event we have any account to give after death, there will be no condemnation waiting for us.

I feel for his family as I pray that God gives them the fortitude to bear the loss while I pray for a repose of his soul.”

Adegbamigbe Omole Former chairman, Nigerian Bar Associatin (NBA), Ikeja Adegbamigbe Omole said the death of Aturu “came to me as a rude shock I still cannot believe that BF is no more. I have known him for a period spanning over two decades when we met at Ife he had never looked sickly. He was a committed and an uncompromising activist defending the rights of the less privilege. He was a brilliant advocate al-

•The late Aturu

ways on the side of the truth. Now that the reality has done on us that BF has departed this sinful world we pray that the almighty God will give the family and the human rights community he left behind the fortitude to bear this great loss”.

Tunde Babawale Babawale described the late Aturu as “a man of the people, committed advocate of social justice, relentless fighter of the oppressed, a brilliant, humble and caring individual.

Adieu, Bamidele”.

Yinka Farounbi The news of the death of Bamidele Aturu came as a rude shock and unbelievable. The Legal profession, no doubt, has lost a rare breed that may be difficult to replace. BF, as we fondly called him, was a very committed member of our branch, the NBA Ikeja Branch. He has served the branch in so many capacities. He was two years the Chairman of our Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture and he did so well - he spent his enormous time and money for the success of the programme and he used his Uncorrupted influences all over the federation to gather the who is who of this country to attend the event.

BF was equally a consultant to our branch on legal issues and he has taken up an appeal at the Court Appeal, Abuja on behalf of the branch without taken a dime. Not only did he not charged us, he bore the flight and the hotel bills on his own.

As for the NBA Ikeja Branch, which I currently lead, we will immortalise

BF for his numerous contributions to the continuous growth of his worthy branch. He was our son and we are proud of him.

Beyond these, Nigeria and Nigerians had lost one of the truest Human Right Activists this Country ever produced. BF could be the only man standing like Gani Fawehinmi. You will recall he declined the offer to serve in the CONFAB with the attendant lost of over N10million whereas some instigated protest(s) to be nominated. How many Nigerians can be that principled?

The legal profession has lost a rare breed that may be difficult to replace.

His humility has no equal.

Adieu “The Man Of The People” Itse Sagay Prof. Sagay, who fought back tears when he visited wrote in the condolence register, “Nigerian light has gone. God knows better”.

Olukayode Bamgbose Prof. Bamgbose wrote, “God must have a reason for doing this. It is well.

Wemimo Ogunde (SAN) Ogunde(SAN) wrote, “Dele, this is a big loss your departure has brought. Till we meet in the bosom of the Lord.”

Hon. Jubreel Abdulkareem Hon. Jebreel wrote: “I pray to almighty Allah to forgive you and reward all your efforts, especially to have.”

Wale Ogunade Activist Ogunade wrote: “You have done your bit. We shall keep the flag flying

•From left: Chairman NBA, Ikeja, Yinka Farounbi, First Vice chairman, Gloria Nweze and Financial Secretary, Thelma Coco-Bassey, at a conference on delay in justice administration.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

LEGAL OPINION

Osunbor sues NHRC for indictment over electoral offences

F

ORMER Edo State Governor Pro fessor Oserheimen Osunbor has sued the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) over its recent recommendation to the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (AGF) that the ex-governor and other individuals be prosecuted for alleged violation of electoral laws.

Osunbor, in the suit initiated via originating summons, marked; FHC/ ABJ/CS/374/2014 filed before the Federal High Court, Abuja, queried the powers of the NHRC to make such recommendations to the AGF and accused the commission of denying him fair hearing in the proceedings leading to the production of its report of February this year.

But the NHRC has insisted that it acted within its powers. The commission had, after reviewing the various judgments by courts and election tribunals, suggested to the AGF that some 41 people, including Osunbor, allegedly indicted in the judgments, be prosecuted for election related offences.

Osunbor, who is seeking N500million in damages “for the mental agony, torture, pain and psychological trauma” allegedly caused him by the report by the NHRC, raised four questions for the court’s determination and and sought seven reliefs.

He wants an injunction restraining the NHRC and its agents from taking any step or action to circulate the report or produce any other one or a final report in furtherance of the earlier published initial report and a declaration that, by the combined provisions sections 5 and 6 of NHRC Act, Section 214 of the Constitution and Section 4 of the Police Act, the defen-

From Eric Ikhilae

dant lacks the powers to investigate electoral offences as stipulated in sections 124 and 139 of Electoral Act 2006.

The plaintiff also seeks a declaration that the defendant, in exercise of its powers under sections 5 and 6 of the NHRC Act, the commission is bound to follow the extant provisions of Section 36 of the Constitution and the rules of natural justice. He wants the court to declare that the recommendation contained in its initial report of February 2014, as it relates to the plaintiff, are ultra vires, null and void.

He equally wants the court to declare that the NHRC “is not empowered by law to review the judgment of a competent court or tribunal and to arrive at a different conclusion from that of the court or tribunal for the purpose of indicting the plaintiff for criminal prosecution.”

Last Tuesday, plaintiff’s lawyer, Udu Diegbe told the court that though the defendant was served with processes in relation to the suit, it is yet to file any response. NHRC was also not represented by any lawyer, forcing the trial judge, Justice Evoh Chukwu to adjourn to October 7 for mention.

The NHRC had last year constituted a Technical Working Group (TWG) comprising of academics in the field of Law to carry out a general review of those indicted for electoral offences in judgments by the courts and election tribunals.

The TWG submitted its initial report, where it found that some individuals and institutions indicted by the various election petition tribunals and courts of record were identified, but were not prosecuted as required

under the Electoral Act. Relying on the provisions of sections 5 and 6 of the NHRC Act, the commission recommended the AGF, the prosecution of those the TWG found to have been indicted in the various judgments it reviewed. The commission said the recommendation was pursuant to its powers under Section 6 (1) of the NHRC Act 1995 as amended.

One those recommended for prosecution is Prof Osunbor. His inclusion, the NHRC said, is in relation to the findings of the election tribunal in the petition by Governor Adams Oshiomhole, where the tribunal came out with criminal and administrative indictments against the respondents in the case.

Also recommended for prosecution were former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Clarence Olafemi; former Ekiti State Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs Ayoka Adebayo, and an Assistant Superintendent of Police, Christopher Oloyede.

The case against Mrs Adebayo, according to the NHRC, was in relation to her role in the election in Ekiti State as captured in the tribunal’s finding in the judgment in the petition by Governor Kayode Fayemi against Mr.Olusegun Oni and others.

The NHRC said on ASP Christopher Oloyede, the Court of Appeal held: “The evidence on record showed that a policeman, ASP Christopher Oloyede, signed an election result sheet as a party agent on behalf of the PDP. This is an illegality and violation of electoral rules both by INEC and the police.”

•From left: A. T. Kehinde (SAN), Former President Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN), Tajudeen Oladoja and his wife, Hajiya Rabi Salisu-Oladoja at the Judicial Reform Conference in Abuja.

Court resolves Odofin farmland tussle

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HE nine-year-old tussle over Odofin farmland, situ ated at Sekan Village, on Agoro/Oloba road in Osun State Iwo has been resolved.

The resolution of the land crisis is contained in a judgment delivered by Justice M.A. Adeigbe on July 3 of an Osun State High Court, Iwo. The matter was resolved through an out-of-court agreement.

The claimant in the suit, which started in 2005, was the Odofin family while the defendants are also members of the Odofin family.

The defendants were alleged to have trespassed on an 80-hectare land.

The family sued Messrs Bilawu Akanni, Akibu Alimi, Abdullahi Bilawu and Madam Wosilatu Alimi to court for allegedly trespassing on the Odofin farmland.

Five persons, including Mr. Lasisi Akanmu, Mr. Lamidi Adisa, Mallam Akibu Atanda, Mr. Muraina Adeleke and Alhaji

By Adebisi Onanuga

Taleatu had instituted the case for themselves and on behalf of all members of Odofin family, Iwo, excluding the defendants.

Three of the claimants Akanmu, Adisa and Taleatu died during the case.

This left the duo of Atanda and Adeleke to continue representing the family members at home and in diaspora.

After several adjournments, the parties, however, agreed to an outof-court settlement, culminating into the terms of settlement.

According to the terms of settlement, the parties agreed that the land in dispute was a crown land, which can only be administered by the Odofin of Iwoland.

The terms of agreement was adopted and read as judgment of the court presided by Justice M. A. Adeigbe on July 3.

In the consent judgment made available to newsmen, last week, the parties agreed “that the land known as Odofin family land situate, lying and being at Sekan,

Agoro/Oloba Village Road, Iwo Osun State bonded in the right by Akinrin family farmland, on the left by Modasa family farmland, in the front by Bamolu family farmland and at the back by Ajigbagun family farmland and more particularly delineated on Plan No. OS/297/2010/DS 01 drawn and signed by A. A. Adeyemi, a Surveyor on 09/03/ 2010 belongs to Odofin family of Odofin’s Compound, Gidigbo Quarters, Kajola Area, Iwo Town, Iwo Local Government, Osun State.

“That both plaintiffs and defendants are members of Odofin’s Compound, Gidigbo Quarters, Kajola area, Iwo Town, Iwo Local Government, Osun State.

“That these terms shall be entered as the judgment of this Honourable Court and parties shall bear their own costs,” the judgment read in parts.

Earlier, counsel to the two parties, Dr. Kehinde Adekunle and Mr. E. A. Gbadegesin, holding brief for I. T. Tewogbade, informed the court of the amicable resolution.

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com For comments: 08033054939 (sms only)

Memo on constitution review

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HERE is groundswell of opinion that the 1999 constitution needs fun damental amendments if the country is to survive and develop; more so as the first to third amendments looked after only narrow interests.

With Nigeria fast deteriorating into anarchy, it should be obvious to the political actors, that there may soon be no country for the practice of political chicanery. Now, what the country urgently needs is a fundamental restructuring, to untangle our political economy for a meaningful progress; because the current constitution has too may booby traps and unless Nigeria is extricated from its strangleholds, the vultures may soon gather.

To achieve that, the nation needs a constitution that drives development, not one that imperils it. In amending the constitution, first, there is the need to define citizenship, and what benefits and responsibilities come with that.

Under this, we must agree as to the political, economic and social rights of every citizen, regardless or limited by residency, and provide guarantees or exclusions based on what is agreed. In the face of massive retreat to ethnicity and desperate political exclusion, the fundamental dynamics of a nation state is threatened.

The next is to determine the nature of citizens we want, patriots or turncoats. Our country has perhaps correctly, been credited with the harshest type of capitalism in the world. Currently there are no provisions for social security or safety nests, while life indignities are foisted on hapless citizens as national ethos. The amendments must therefore appropriate for the benefits of the citizens basic socio-economic rights, like free basic education, housing, and employment. The current provisions known as fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy are indeed fundamental to citizenship and humanity and must therefore substantially become secured rights protected by the constitution without equivocation. For instance what dignity lies for that jobless, homeless, uneducated and unemployable Nigeria, as currently but falsely guaranteed for in section 34 of our present constitution.

Next is the dispersal of power – economic and political. As things stand, power is over concentrated at the center, and unfortunately this was appropriated not by consensus, but by military fiat during the many years of military intervention. To make progress, the country must boldly seek a consensus on the decentralization of power. On the political front there is the need to create capable federating units that can appropriately negotiate, protect and preserve any constitutionally appropriated rights. That perhaps justifies the need for constitutional recognition of the six geo-political zones as the federating units, with the states as the third tier of government.

If however the states are to remain the fulcrum of federating units, then there is need for equitable distribution of political power to the geo-political zones that make up the federation. Currently the south east which has lesser number of states and local governments than the other geo-political zones deserve the creation of a sixth state. To pretend that that demand is not genuine is to gloss over the historical inequities underpinning the creation of states by the military governments. Again if the present arrangements remain, then the current legislative provisions allowing hybrid local government administration will have to be redefined. We will either have the councils as the third tier government, or as in other federations operate it under the apron of states.

Now the most important of the needed constitutional amendments is the dispersal of economic powers. There is the urgent need to whittle down the contents of the second schedule to the constitution, so that states can explore the resources in their domain. As things are, many states are poor despite their substantial endowments, and the result is the increasing extreme desperation by all the stakeholders to seek an increased portion of the available resources. There is also a disincentive to work for state’s prosperity, as the bureaucracies at the states concentrate on feeding from its share of the forcefully appropriated Niger Delta resources, instead of creating wealth at the local level. On their own part, the federal authority, with too much loose money, attract and dispense enormous resources and influence, and consequently has turned into the amphitheatre of corrupt enrichment and a thriving rent economy.

To complement the dispersal of economic power, the coercive prerogative of the state to protect and enforce the rules of economic engagement, through policing needs decentralization. The controversy over state policing is uncalled for, if proper delineations and control measures are put in place. To complement this will be a decentralized judiciary. Exhaustive and independent judiciary to adjudicate the economic, social and political issues bordering the ordering of rights and duties within the states or zones would harm nobody or the federal judiciary. Instead the federal courts will continue to deal with matters of federal interests, leaving the sub national interests to the sub national courts.

An interesting perspective to creating a functional country came penultimate Saturday from Professor Chidi Odinkalu, the Chair of Council, National Council on Human Rights at the installation of Rotarian Victor Achuonu, and the board of Rotary Club of Festac Town. The erudite Professor professed, “Three processes are essential to the effective functioning of a country. These are: the process of legitimating public power (elections); the processes of quantifying the democratic coverage/composition of the country (census); and the process of estimating and distributing the commonwealth (public accounts, including revenues and appropriations).”

He furthered, “The rationales for these and relationships between them are obvious. Through the votes validly counted, government acquires its legitimacy to rule; through the census, it knows the number of people it needs to cater for and among whom the resources need to be distributed; and in the public accounts’ it knows what it needs to manage in the interest of these people…”

This article first published here on 7th August 2012 is repeated as the Jonathan Confab winds down.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

LAW & SOCIETY

Judgment in hijab suit Sept 26

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USTICE Modupe Onyeabo of a Lagos High Court, Ikeja has fixed September 26, for judgment in a suit filed by the Muslim Student Association of Nigeria (MSSN) against Lagos State Government over the use of Hijab by female Muslim students in the state’s primary and secondary schools.

Justice Onyeabo fixed the date after counsel to MSSN, Gani AdetolaKaseem (SAN) and the Lagos State Solicitor-General, Lawal Pedro (SAN) argued and adopted their written submissions.

The MSSN had sued the state government to court over the restriction of the use of the Hijab, on the ground that it violates their fundamental human rights.

The Muslim students also argued that banning female students from using Hijab on or outside the premises of any educational institution in Lagos State “is wrongful and unconstitutional”.

The MSSN had filed the case against the State Government along with two pupils, Miss Asiyat Abdulkareem and Miss Maryam Oyeniyi, who are the

By Adebisi Onanuga

first and second applicants respectively.

The two pupils, who are students of Atunrashe Junior High School, Surulere, Lagos State joined the suit as claimants through their fathers – Alhaji Owolabi Abdulkareem and Mr. Suleiman Oyeniyi.

The defendants in the suit are the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, and Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye and Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Mr. Oyinlomo Danmole.

At the resumed hearing of the matter last week, counsel to MSSN, Mr. Gani AdetolaKaseem(SAN) maintained that the essence of wearing Hijab by Muslim female is to prevent them from tempting people of the opposite sex or being tempted by them and also to protect their chastity as required by their religion, Islam.

The lawyer also submitted that from Islamic point of view, womanhood is determined not by biological age or

marriage but by the time a person has attained the age of puberty.

He further stated that scientifically and from experience, the attainment of puberty varies between individual.

Some females attain puberty as early as the age of nine years while others attain puberty at age 13 or more.

Adetola-Kaseem contended that it is mandatory for all Muslim who have attained puberty to participate fully in the practice of Islam, including Islamic dressing mode, worship and fasting.

He therefore urged the court to grant the application because the position of the Lagos State Government violate the religious rights of the applicants and it is the duty of the court to protect them.

But the Solicitor General, Mr. Lawal Pedro(SAN) who represented the defendants argued that the wearing of uniforms in public primary and secondary schools is for identification of students from different schools in Lagos and that the standardised set of dress for students is meant to encourage a sense of unity, discipline organisations and orderliness the schools.

Three arraigned for alleged theft

By Toyosi Babatunde

•IGP Mohammed Abubakar

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HREE men have been ar raigned before a Lagos State magistrate court, Ikeja for stealing and for obtaining N6,697,000 under false pretext.

The defendant are Ibrahim Sulieman 30 years, Habeeb Quadri 42 years and Rauf Adebayo 44 years.

They were arraigned before the court presided by magistrate Mrs. E.A. Fabanwo last week on a three count charge of obtaining money under false pretext.

The Police prosecutor, Inspector A. Samson alleged that the defendants, on May 14 about 10.45am at Ogba conspired to

commit felony to wit obtaining money under false pretext and thereby committed an offence and punishable under section 409 of the criminal law of Lagos State of Nigeria 2011.

According Inspector Samson, the defendants had under false pretext obtained the sum of N6,697,000 from one Temilola Akintayo to import fabrics for her knowing same to be false and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 312(1a)(3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria 2011.

The defendant were also alleged to have stolen N6,697,000 being property of one Temilola Akintayo and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 285(1)of the criminal law of Lagos State of Nigeria 2011.

The defendant pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them.

Magistrate Fabanwo thereafter granted them bail in the sum of N500,000 each and two sureties in the like sum.

She adjourned the matter till July 22, for hearing.

Ex-director denies forgery allegation

•A partner, Folabi Kuti; Senior Associate Miss Olubukola Thomas; Aderemi; Associate, Olugbenga Sokan; Eghobamien; a partner Olawale Adebambo and a consultant Mrs Sylvia Nzekwu

Commercial law firm gets new partner

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LAGOS-based commercial law firm, Perchstone & Graeys, has admitted one of its senior associates, Mr. Tolulope Aderemi as a partner.

Aderemi, a 2005 law graduate of the University of Ibadan, hold a Masters in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland.

He has been involved in high profile domestic and international energy transactions, litigations as well as energy/construction arbitration references.

He heads the firm’s Oil and Gas group and is the Editor of the Perchstone & Graeys’ electronic Power Today, a weekly publication dealing

By Joseph Jibueze

with trends and events in the power sector.

The firm’s founder and Managing Partner, Mr Osaro Eghobamien (SAN) said Aderemi emerged through a rigorous and transparent qualification and screening exercise, in which the Board of Partners engaged the services of an independent external consultant who assisted to identify the best talent.

“The decision making process proved to be far more daunting than ever anticipated. Each of the candidates showed various sterling qualities, having been in the firm for no

less than five years.

“In the end, the Board of Partners had to settle for one who was most likely to develop new business, contribute to the firm’s profitability and add value to the firm beyond doing legal work.

“Now more than before, the firm it seems is strategically positioned to meet and exceed its clients’ expectations by attracting and retaining the best talent to service its clientele across diverse sectors.

“The message seems to be that there is no upper limit to the heights that can be attained by the irm’s lawyers in a system that rewards dynamism and opens up a piece of the business to deserving stars,” Eghobamien said.

A FORMER director in the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs Eunice Oddiri (nee Esiso) has debunked media reports that she was involved in an alleged registration and forgery scandal over her late father’s estate.

She said contrary to the reports, she was duly appointed by her mother as a director in the companies, including Gateway Estates Limited and Oil Field Transport Services Limited.

According to her, the companies had her late father Mr E. A. Esiso and mother Chief Iketiti Esiso as founding directors. Following her father’s death, she said her mother appointed her and three of her siblings as directors.

Mrs Oddiri said she could not have forged any of the documents regarding registration of the companies’ directors as insinuated in the reports.

She said her father, in a personal statement to the police and his banker while alive, also affirmed that he duly donated his Power of Attorney to her.

The police, she said, had in 2008 investigated an allegation that she forged the Power of Attorney and issued a report, signed by the Inspector-General of Police on

By Joseph Jibueze

October 20, 2008, clearing her of allegations of forgery.

She said her elder brother, who allegedly petitioned the police Special Fraud Unit (SFU) again this year on the same issue on which she was cleared six years ago, had also filed a suit at the High Court in Isiokpolo, Delta State, to challenge the validity of the Power of Attorney, but did not wait for the court to determine his suit before writing another petition.

Oddiri, through her lawyer, Mr Nelson Ogbuanya of Novena Partners, has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Warri, challenging her brother’s handling of her late father’s estate using a letter of administration purported obtained in a court.

The reports, according to Oddiri, also claimed she and her other brother would be arrested and arraigned at a Magistrate’s Court in Warri for alleged forgery.

“We’re apprehensive about our safety. We believe it is my elder brother who is misleading the police. My father did not put his name as a shareholder in any of the companies. The article was designed to embarrass and destroy my reputation,” Oddiri said.

Text of the lecture delivered by Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) on the eve of leaving as the DirectorGeneral of NIALS.

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Law and transformation: NIALS forensic empiricism and legal pragmatism

IALS have developed this pattern of legal scholarship in the past five years and examples that can be gleaned from our publications are namely: 1.State of Emergency in Nigeria: Law and Politics 2.Plea Bargaining 3.Judicial Reasoning 4.Legal Regime of Free Trade Zone 5.Deregulation: Law and Economics 6.Law of Domestic Violence in Nigeria 7. Corporate Governance and Responsibility 8.Nuclear Law and Policy 9.Competition Law and Policy 10.Justiciability and Constitutionalism: Economic Analysis of Law 11.Law and Security in Nigeria 12.Law of Wars and use of Force 13.Manual of Legislative Drafting

14.Fundamentals of Legislative Drafting 15.Law and Development in Nigeria 16.Supreme Court of Nigeria: 1990-2012 17.Legal Pluralism in Nigeria: A compendium on African Customary Law 18.Legal Empiricism and Writing Skills 19.Rule of Law and Good Governance 20. Nigeria: A Centenary of Constitutional Development 1914-2014 21. Legal Dynamics of the African Union 22. Principles of Mediation and Negotiation 23. Legal Assistance 24. Right of Persons with Disability 25.Intellectual Property and Development 26.Annotation of Electoral Act 27.Annotation of Evidence Act 28.Annotation of CAMA All these and other publications under my watch clearly elevated legal pragmatism as

a jurisprudence postulate. As we engaged in the process of enunciating principles and theories in our publications backed by pragmatic enthronement of issues, so did our journals interrogate otherwise established concepts and judicial pronouncement. To this end, NIALS SUPREME COURT REVIEW has remained a veritable vehicle for revisiting Supreme Court decisions and offering divergent views that may be useful in subsequent determination of cases.

I am grateful to My Lords, Justices of the Supreme Court for their humility in acknowledging that the views canvassed have enabled them rethink the position they took and given the same circumstances, may be a little bit more circumspect. Other NIALS journals that certainly have elevated appreciation of our scholarship globally include:

•Azinge

a.NIALS Journal of Constitutional Law b.Journal of Law and Development c.Journal of Business Law d.NIALS Journal of Maritime law e.Journal of Air and Space Law f.Environmental Law Journal •To be continued nextweek

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

LAW REPORT

Improper arraignment renders trial a nullity IN THE COURT OF APPEAL IN THE LAGOS JUDICIAL DIVISION HOLDEN AT LAGOS ON FRIDAY, JUNE 20, 2014 BEFORE THEIR LORDSHIPS Y. B. NIMPAR, J.C.A. SIDI DAUDA BAGE, J.C.A. JAMILU YAMMAMA TUKUR, J.C.A. CA/L/828/2010 (2014) LPELR-23124(CA) Between OTO-BONG …………………….….........................… Appellant And THE STATE …………………………........................... Respondent LEAD JUDGMENT DELIVERED BY Y. B. NIMPAR, J.C.A.

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HE Appellant as second defendant along with Sopuruchi Obed were arraigned be fore Justice M. A. Dada of the Lagos State High Court on a two count charge and upon trial, the court in a considered judgment dated May 28, 2009 found them guilty for the offence of conspiracy and armed robbery and convicted them to death. The offences were contrary to Section 403(4) and 402 (2) of the Criminal Code Cap (17) Vol. 2 Laws of Lagos State, 2003.

The facts of the case at the trial court are that the appellant along one other, Sopuruchi Obed were charged with conspiracy and armed robbery contrary to Section 403 (A) and 402 (2) (a) of the Criminal Code Cap C17, Vol. 2 Laws of Lagos State, 2003. The appellant and the said Sopuruchi Obed were alleged to have robbed one Mrs. Praise Lawani of various items on September 30, 2004 at Obele Road, off Maigbon, Lagos while armed with a locally made short gun, a knife and eight cartridges. The two accused persons pleaded not guilty to the two count charge and the matter proceeded to trial.

The trial court upon due consideration found the two defendants guilty. The appellant dissatisfied with the judgment filed a notice of appeal of six grounds upon which three issues for determination were distilled as follows: 1. Whether the arraignment of the appellant was not in compliance with the law and consequently the entire trial at the lower court was a nullity?

2. Whether non-signing of the record of proceedings of the lower court rendered the proceedings of the day a nullity.

3. Whether the finding of the learned trial judge that the prosecution proved its case as required by law can be supported by the totality of the evidence adduced before the court.

The issues formulated by the appellant were adopted by the court for determination in this judgment.

The appellant in arguing issue 1 submitted that the arraignment of the appellant was not properly done and the defect had rendered the trial a nullity. He submitted that the law requires that a charge be read and explained to the accused in a language he understands before he can be called upon to take his plea according to Section 24 of Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Lagos State and 36(6)(a) of the 1999 Constitution. Appellant contended that there was nothing in the record of appeal to show that the charge was read, explained or interpreted to the appellant before the plea was taken. On this issue, he finally submitted that failure to comply with

the requirement for a proper arraignment has occasioned a miscarriage of justice and he urged the court to discharge the accused person as it would be unfair to put the appellant through a second trial because the case for the prosecution is weak.

Addressing this issue, counsel for the respondent submitted that Section 215 of the Criminal Procedure Act and Section 36(6) (a) of the 1999 Constitution provides for how a person accused of an offence shall be brought to court unfettered and the charge to be read over and explained to him in the language he understands to the satisfaction of the court before his plea can be taken. Counsel contended that the provision was not violated by the court and the appellant misconceived what an arraignment is and relied on OGUNYE v. THE STATE (1999) 5 NWLR (Pt. 604) 518 AT 567; (1999) LPELR-2356(SC) where arraignment was explained.

In deciding this issue, the court stated that it is the requirement of the law that necessary steps to a valid arraignment are complied with as provided in Section 215 of the Criminal Procedure Act. The court further stated that such requirements must co-exist and non compliance will warrant an order of a re-trial as the trial will be vitiated and rendered a nullity.

The court held that failure of the trial court to comply with the requirement of Section 215 of the Criminal Procedure Act rendered the arraignment and trial a nullity. The court cited the case of JOSIAH v. THE STATE (1985) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1) 215; (1985) LPELR-1633(SC) where the Supreme Court observed that the condition laid down in Section 215 of the Criminal Procedure Act must be strictly complied with.

The court held that the deficiency in the record of appeal concerning arraignment is vital and it has vitiated the trial. The trial was held to be a nullity and this issue was resolved in favour of the appellant.

On issue 2 , appellant submitted that by virtue of Section 245 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Lagos State 2007 which is the same as Section 294 (1) of the Criminal Procedure Act, it requires the trial court to maintain a record of proceedings and the judge must sign the notes for each day. Counsel submitted that this requirement is mandatory and any failure to observe same renders the proceedings of that day null and void. He contended that the additional record were transcribed but were not signed by the trial judge including the proceedings in which the appellant was arraigned.

•Special Assistant to Cross River State Governor on Youth Affairs, Dr. Dorn cKlaimz Enamhe (left) receiving award on behalf of his governor from Mr. Arthur Chukwu during the EBF seminar and awards.

The respondent’s counsel submitted that the appellant’s complaint was about the transcribed record of court duly certified as required by law. That Section 145 and 147 of the Evidence Act also prescribes a presumption of genuineness of a certified document and also that Order 17 Rule (9) (1) (c) of the Rules of the Court allow for the use of transcribed copies of record of proceedings as substitute for Judges Notes. Counsel urged the court to discountenance the argument of the appellant under this issue and find for the respondent.

On this issue, the court held that the portion complained about are the additional record of appeal and these are the transcripts of the proceedings which are certified by the officer duly authorised. The court stated that it is important to note that the portion of the additional record complained about is not directly the note of the trial judge but transcripts from the recording by an officer authorised to do so and it was duly certified. The court held that the complaint of the appellant lacked merit. This issue was resolved against the appellant.

The appellant in arguing issue three challenged the finding of the trial court that the prosecution proved its case as required by law.

Addressing the issue, counsel for the appellant submitted that the prosecution did not prove the allegation according to law. He relied on the case of ALABI v. STATE (1993) 7 NWLR (Pt. 307) 511; (1993) LPELR-397(SC).

Counsel submitted that to answer the issue, the evidence of the two prosecution witnesses will have to be analysed and when that is done, it can clearly be seen that the evidence was hearsay evidence as both PW1 and PW2 told the court that Mrs. Praise Lawani told them what they told the court. The said Mrs. Lawani did not testify. The appellant urged the court to expunge the hearsay evidence of PW1 and PW2 and to discharge the appellant. Counsel submitted there was no evidence Mrs. Praise Lawani existed. She was not called even when she is a vital witness in proof of whether a robbery actually took place. That in the face of the retracted confessional statement and the

appellant’s alibi which was established, the prosecution failed to prove that a robbery took place. Appellant’s counsel further submitted that there was no clear identification of the appellant as one of those who participated in the robbery and therefore the court erred in finding that the appellant participated in the robbery. And furthermore that the report by Mrs. Lawani was on suspicion since she did not identify anybody on the day the alleged robbery took place.

Counsel for the respondent submitted that identification parade is not required where the suspect is caught at the scene of crime or closely connected as in this case. Counsel submitted that prosecution is not bound to call witnesses if it can prove its case by those called, he relied on BELLO SHURUMO v. THE STATE (2010) 19 NWLR 9 (Pt. 1226) 73 AT 94; (2010) LPELR3069(SC).

On this issue, the court stated that the police man in the station cannot be a witness to a crime which took place in a different location when he was not at that venue except if he is a spirit. The court stated the settled principle of law that where direct evidence of the commission of a crime is absent, the court can infer from the facts proved the existence of other facts which logically and conclusively establish the guilt of the accused, the Court cited the case of AKPA v. STATE (2008) 14 NWLR (Pt. 1106) 72; (2008) LPELR-368(SC). The court held that there is no direct evidence in this case, neither is there circumstantial evidence that can pin the appellant to the crime without the evidence of a victim on the important aspects of how the offence was carried out.

On the whole, the court held that the appeal succeeds. The judgment wherein the conviction and sentence of the appellant by the Lagos High court presided over by HON. JUSTICE M. A DADA and delivered on May 28, 2009 was set aside. The appellant was discharged and acquitted.

•Odenigbo

•Unachukwu

•Edited by LawPavillion LawPavilion Citation: (2014) LPELR-23124(CA)

Group adopts candidate for NBA election today

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AWYERS in the Media Forum (LIM) at the weekend adopted the Assistant National Publicity of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) John Austin Unachukwuas its candidate for Publicity Secretary in today’s NBA election.

On why he was adopted, LIM’s Chairman Mr. Charles Odenigbo said: “John Austin is the man for the job. He is credible. He has integrity. He has been tested and found competent in all departments of the profession.

“John Austin was the pioneer Secretary of LIM. He is hardworking, firm and committed to the ideals of the association.

That is why we found him a worthy ambassador of LIM and we have no doubt that he will make NBA and LIM proud as the Publicity Secretary. “ He is the candidate to beat in the election. We are behind him and are very ready to work with him as the Publicity Secretary of NBA. Together we we will lift the Bar and place it on information super high way.”

Unachukwu has a Masters Degree in Law. A trained journalist, he has a Diploma in Journalism and was the best graduating student in 1994 Diploma class of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba Lagos. He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Business Education Examination Council (BEEC).

He has been the Editor of the NBA Bar

News since 2012, a platform he has used to endear himself to Nigerian lawyers. As the Legal Editor of The Nation newspapers, he has also used the medium to drive the publicity of the NBA more than any other journalist in the history of the Bar. He is the Assistant National Publicity Secretary of the Bar. He has understudied and worked with many past Publicity Secretaries of the Bar, including Abdulrasheed Muritala (Murray) and Emeka JP Obegolu.

He understands the workings of the NBA, information management and has the requisite qualifications and trainings to fly the flag of the NBA as its image maker.

Having been adopted by the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) and LIM, the stage is set for him to coast home in the contest.

Unachukwu was born in Jos and enjoys tremendous friendship and support from the north,. He lives and practices his trade in Lagos where he enjoys a lot of goodwill and friendship.

Widely travelled, he has coverered law conferences in Australia, Dubai, South Africa, the United States of America, among others.

With his election as the Publicity Secretary of the NBA, the Bar will witness a turning point, and international best practices in the management of its image.

Other constestants to the office of NBA publicity secretary are Gbolahan Gbadamosi and Kunle Edun.

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TUESDAY JULY 15, 2014

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

ABIA POLITICS Ten politicians are jostling for the senatorial ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Abia South District. The seat will be vacant next year when Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who is now a governorship aspirant, leaves the Senate. EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the factors and issues that will shape the contest.

A

SPIRANTS are warming up for the succession battle in Abia State. In Abia South Zone, prominent politicians are jostling for the Senate. The seat will become vacant next year when Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe bows out. The senator, who is a former deputy governor, has unfolded his ambition to rule the state.

The senatorial ticket has always rotated between the Ukwa and Ngwa ethnic groups. Former Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wabara, who hails from Ohambele, Ukwa East Local Government Area, represented the zone between 1999 and 2007.

He was succeeded by Abaribe, who is from Ngwa.

Out of nine local governments in the district, Ngwa has seven.

Ukwa has two. As Ngwa people are jostling for the governorship, Ukwa politicians are eyeing the Senate.

For now, only the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial aspirants are visible. Aspirants on the platforms of other parties have not come out with their posters.

But, sources said that some politicians are also warming up in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (UPGA).

PDP aspirants include Chief Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Uzoma Abonta, Chief Solomon Ogunji, Hon. Asiforo Okere, Hon Emeka Stanley and Chief Don Ubani.

These gladiators are from Ukwaland.

Many factors will shape the contest. From 1999, Abia has been represented by colourful politicians in the Senate. Therefore,

• Orji

• Abaribe

• Nkwonta

10 for Senate in Abia South green horns in the race may only be making a futile bid.

In Abia South, electioneering is also expensive. Therefore, the ability of the aspirants to nurture formidable structures and regularly oil the machinery is another factor.

In the zone, primaries are usually held for contenders. The party has its guidelines. The ambition of aspirants who may not be able to meet the conditions will crumble.

However, some of the aspirants traversing the nooks and crannies of the zone to consult stakeholsers and mobilise support for their candidature, ahead of the primaries, have what it takes to

be in the Senate.

A grassroots politician, Nkwonta contested for the seat in 2011 against Abaribe, but, based on the agreement among the stakeholders, Abaribe was returned. Nkwonta is from Akwete, Ukwa East local Government Area. he is a successful businessman and philanthropist. He is the Chairman/Chief Executive of Southern Star Hotels and Towers, Port Harcourt, and Chairman, SURE-P, Abia State. The Chris Nkwonta Foundation, which he founded, has organised empowerment programmes for youths, students, widows, artisans and peasants.

Declaring his ambition in Akwete, his home town, he said he joined the race to serve the district. Sources said that the politician decided to step down his governorship ambition and opted for the senate, following consultations with stakeholders. When he declared his ambition, he also lent support for the senatorial ambition of Governor Theodore Orji. He said Orji has the experience to lead Abia senators in the Upper Chamber next year.

Also in the race is Abonta, a member of the House of Representatives from Ukwa.

Constituency. He also hails from Akwete.

Another contender is Ogunji, a

native of Ohambele, Ukwa East Local Government. He is the former Cmmissioner for environment.

Okere is the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly.

He was first elected in 2003. The legislator hails form Ohuru, Ukwa East Local Government. Many youths want him to leave the House next year. They said he could have performed better as their repre-sentative.

Emeka Stanley is the Chairman of the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC). He is from Obohia, Ukwa East Local Government Area.

He was displaced in the House of Representatives by Abonta, who had protested against his victory at the tribunal. He became the Chairman of ASOPADEC seven months ago, following the appointment of his predecessor, Chief Sam Nwogu, as the NDDC commissioner representing Abia State. Many feel that it is risky for him to abandon the plum job for the uncertainly of contesting for the Senate.

Ubani is the commissioner for Petroleum Resources. He is from Ukwa West Local Government Area. According to politicians from the area, it may be difficult for him to achieve his aspiration because the House of Represent-atives slot, which rotates between Ukwa East and Ukwa West, has been zone to his area. They pointed out that Ukwa West cannot have two slots in the National Assembly.

Therefore, a source said that he has been advised to seek elective or appointive positions at the state level.

A group, the Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa (CGGEJA), has written a letter to President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene in the Edo State House of Assembly crisis. The solution to the crisis, according to the organisation, is for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to desist from fanning the embers of disunity.

PDP plans to destabilise Edo, says group

T

HE Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa (CGGEJA) has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to stop the alleged plot by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to fuel the crisis in Edo State and destabilise the government.

In its letter to the President, the group said that the plot is not in the interest of democracy, urging him to rise to the occasion as a statesman.

Copies of the letter were sent to the Chief Justice of the Federation, Human Rights Commission and civil society groups. The letter was signed by a leader of the group, Mr. John Mayaki.

CGGEJA described the PDP as a destructive opposition party bent on creating chaos, noting that the state has been enveloped in anxiety, following the threats to recapture the state. It said that since the controversial defection of some All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP, more steps have been taken to divert the attention of Governor Adams Oshiomhole from governance.

The letter reads in part: “The oppostion has a role in democracy. It has a duty to keep the government on its toes. The essence of the opposi-

tion in a well-established democracy, if it is to be of benefit, is that it must be constructive as this is the strength of the opposition in the established democracies of the world. They recognize that they, together with the government of the day, proceed from the major premise that they have a joint aim; to advance the welfare of the people.

“But, what we see in Edo State in recent times is the mobilisation of the opposition party members and some disgruntled elements who want political power relinquished to them on a platter of gold to embark on the policy of obstructing the government, without devising a programme on which they would base an alternative one. Their policies have been narrow in concept and often violent, abusive and ‘terroristic’ and their first port of call is the State House of Assembly. The people of Edo state have become unwilling spectators in the unfolding drama.”

On the May 9, 2014, three members of the House of Assembly had obtained from the Federal High Court, Benin-City, an ex-parte order of interim injunction restraining the Speaker from declaring their seats vacant, pending the determination of the motion on notice. But, the court

refused the prayer for an injunction restraining the applicants from being suspended from the House.

On the June 9, 2014, the House suspended four members. It also went to the court to challenge their refusal comply with the suspension. Noting that the order was not complied it, the group lamented that state agents have turned around as the enforcement wing of the PDP to aiding the recalcitrant lawmakers to invade the plennary session. Before the crisis, the House of Assembly complex was being renovated.

Thus, members moved to the old complex. But, the police also blocked access to the road to the City Centre, (Ovonranwen Square), causing untold economic hardship and social dislocations for the state capital.

“In what seems like a script, the police, on the 7th of July 2014, assisted the PDP legislators to gain access into the Assembly Complex under renovation and pretended to have held plenary.

This is a complete mockery of democracy and a slap on the rule of law,” the group added.

CGGEJA chided the PDP for threatening to cripple the Edo government by invoking the federal might, instead of planing the role of a legitimate opposition to the Al Progressives Congress (APC) government. It said while

the Labour Party in Britain follows a political doctrine opposed to that of the Conservative Party, the PDP is relying on anti-democratic means to gain political control.

The group added: “The situation in Edo is peculiar. The opposition, which lacks popular support, is undermining the popular and people-oriented government by allegedly inducing people to defect from the ruling party and plotting the impeachment of the governor.

CGGEJA said that, despite the fact that Oshiomhole has not waged any war against the opposition, key PDP chieftains are trying to distract him from governace.

It said the crisis has implications for the state, stressing that the gains made under the Oshiomhole Administration may be wiped out.

The group said the government has changed the orientation of the people about service delivery, fought the infrastructure battle, promoted transparency and accountability and restored the glory of the state. It added that these revolutionry tendencies and push for radical change are beyond the ken and comprehension of Oshiomhole’s detractors.

It said that, in this period of our socioeconomic life, old habits, political, so-

•Oshiomhole

cial and economic thought should be discarded and a new political ideology of higher moral conception of public and social duty and obligation must come to the front burner.

The group said that Oshiomhole needs the cooperation of the stakeholderes to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

“Therefore, I humbly call on President Goodluck Jonathan, the various security agencies, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, The National Human Rights Commission, well meaning Nigerians and Edo people, both home and abroad, to prevail on those acting as clogs in the wheel of progress in our dear State to desist forthwith to forestall the breakdown of law and order,” it added.

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THE NATION TUESDAY JULY 15, 2014

POLITICS Soyombo Opeyemi is Special Assistant (Media) to Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun. In this interview with reporters in Abeokuta, the state capital, he says the administration has returned the state into its glorious era.

‘Regional autonomy not negotiable’

By Raymond Mordi

‘Amosun has launched T Ogun into new era’ W

HAT is the greatest achievement of the Amosun administration in the last three years?

That’s quite interesting. If you ask the opposition, they will tell you it is the road construction and bridges. Yes, they acknowledge that much that Amosun is the first governor, since the creation of Ogun in 1976, to build overhead bridges all over our major cities, construct the first international standard six-lane roads across the state, and the first also to construct a 107km modern road cutting across four local councils, many villages and towns. They will, of course, add a little mischief, by saying that our roads cost more than that of the previous government. That is politics, but it is self-indicting as well. How can you compare orange with apple?

They built a few roads, which collapsed within two years. Their best is the 1km semi-modern road in Abeokuta, while Amosun’s roads are of 21st century standard; wide and complete with modern features like clearly-defined pedestrian walkways, storm drains, greens, well-defined medians, speed breakers, etc.

But, if you ask some of our people in the rural areas, they will tell you that they are happy with the new roads, but they are much more grateful to the governor for the free education because they no longer pay school fees or buy textbooks for their children and wards. Again, the extremely poor women who receive free antenatal care, get transport money and, after birth, receive ‘mama kit’ with gifts for mother and baby may argue it is health care. Or the farmers who are beneficiaries of the N1billion credit scheme will consider agriculture as the greatest achievement. What will be the opinion of the parents of our youths who remained at home, idle for several years after completing their education, but have now got gainful employment through Amosun’s employment generation scheme and thousands of others employed by the 34 new industries that began operation under the current administration?

You said your government was the first to construct bridges. But, the immediate past governor said at a recent rally in Abeokuta that he built bridges...

It may be necessary to ask for the locations of the bridges. You probably did not understand what he said or he was misquoted because I don’t think anyone will lie about physical structures like bridges. The fact remains that the immediate past government did not build a single bridge, not one.

I think the lesson we should all take away from this is that once you have the opportunity to serve your people, do it with all your might. But much more than that, there is need for vision. A leader should also have consuming passion for the welfare of his people. These are the things that set Amosun apart from the previous government. If you have the opportunity and misuse it, you may not get another chance to make amends.

The former governor also said

•Amosun

he constructed a six-lane road...

I must give him the benefit of the doubt. He probably never meant what you said. If you check the 1km Lalubu Road, the best constructed by the last government, it is effectively a four-lane road because the last two are service lanes. You cannot compare it with our 2.4km IbaraTotoro Road, which is a standard six-lane highway, with two additional service lanes. Besides, unlike the Ibara-Totoro road, the Lalubu road has no greens, welldefined pedestrian walkways, modern bus-stop and speed breakers. T he median of the Lalubu road is narrow, just like its drains. The street lights used for the road, which is actually not up to 1km, were obsolete as at the time it was constructed. The Amosun road has 200mm or 8 inches thick stone base, whereas Lalubu road does not have.

Lalubu is a single-layer asphalt road, whereas Ibara-Totoro is a double-layer asphalt road.

Please, go and check the two roads and see the difference. The era of ‘newspaper development’ or ‘development by billboards and propaganda’ is over in Ogun State. But why should the last government take pride in constructing less than 1km semimodern Lalubu road in eight years and this is not replicated anywhere outside Abeokuta? The current government, on the other hand, has constructed close to

‘A leader should also have consuming passion for the welfare of his people. These are the things that set Amosun apart from the previous government. If you have the opportunity and misuse it, you may not get another chance to make amends’

100km roads of international standard across the state (Abeokuta, Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, Ilisha/Ago Iwoye, Ilara/Ijoun, Aiyetoro, Ota, Ibafo/Magboro) in just three years? And work is still ongoing in many kilometers of such modern roads.

Recently, your internally generated revenue (IGR) exceeded your income from the Federation Account. How was your government able to achieve that?

That’s a very pertinent question.

You know the general belief in Nigeria is that everybody waits till the end of the month to share oil money. That is no more the situation in Ogun State. From a meagre sum of N730 million per month IGR inherited from the last government, the Amosun administration has raised the level to N4 billion monthly. As a matter of fact, we attained a milestone of N4.6bn in March this year. That exceeded our due from the Federation Account. It is a feat our government should celebrate because it means our fate is no longer tied to the monthly allocation from the Federation Account. How did we achieve that?

By simply blocking the loopholes in the old system. You all remember that the state lost close to N30 billion during the last admini-stration, due to racketeering at the Bureau of Lands alone. The situation has dramatically changed today.

Manual systems have given way to the culture of e-payment. Our people are complying with the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) law and with the cooperation of Lagos State, the Residency Rule is gradually being observed. That is, you pay income tax where you live, not where you work. Above all, Amosun is an expert in prudent husbandry of resources. People are happy with this, and are giving their maximum cooperation.

How do you justify the the assertion that Amosun has launched Ogun into its golden years?

Never in the modern history of Ogun have we witnessed such gargantuan investments in social services within such a short space of time. When you have such 21st century monumental structures reshaping the landscape of the state and such landmark strides are still on-going, then you have a state witnessing its golden moments. The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Chris Cooter, visited Ogun in April last year. What he said is very instructive: “The governor has been emphasizing that his administration is very particular about hard work. Here we are on a Sunday, I look at the construction going on, definitely, I am impressed. Whether it is canal, the road network, health or education, clearly, I can see a demonstration of the ‘can do attitude’. I have not been to a state where people are working quite as hard as this one, and I have been in most of them...” That is it. Through visionary leadership, hard work, prudent financial management, continence and consuming passion for the welfare of the citizens, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has launched Ogun State into its golden era.

HE Coalition for Yoruba Autonomy (COYA) has reminded Southwest delegates at the National Conference that the Yoruba would not accept the restructuring that will exclude regional autonomy.

Speaking at the Yoruba Martyrs’ Day, in Lagos, the President of the coalition, Ambassador Kunle Adesokan, said regional autonomy is the antidote to poverty, corruption and insecurity.

Adesokan noted that Nigeria, with its present structure, has failed in all fundamental indices of being a true nation.

The secretary of the group, Mr. Foluso Mojuba, said that, if at the end of the day, the National Conference fails to grant regional autonomy or it does not materialize due to the intervention of members of the National Assembly, “the struggle would go on until we have autonomy.”

Mojuba said regional autonomy is a Yoruba demand, and not just that of COYA. He added that the coalition of five Yoruba groups recognises that a struggle of thuis nature entails a process.

“Today, we have Eritrea from Ethiopia and South Sudan from Sudan. Their struggle also took a similar process to achieve,” he added.

Another member of the group, Mr. Debo Adeniran, said the aspiration of a cross section of Nigerians is to subject the outcome of the National Conference to a referendum. “If they subject it to the whims and caprices of members of the National Assembly, we will tell them that the minimum we expect is a referendum,” he added.

According to Adeniran, the Yoruba Martyrs’ Day was instituted to remember the outstanding contributions of some Nigerians, particularly those of Yoruba descent, who laid down their lives for the progress of Nigeria.

He said the death of Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, on July 7, 1998, rejuvenated nationalism in Nigeria; hence July 7 was chosen as the Yoruba Martyrs’ Day. Adesokan noted that COYA is concerned with the increasing reports of kidnappings and ritual killings in the Southwest. “We urge Yoruba elders, politicians and youth organisations to check this criminality in our society,” he said.

How Lagos APC candidate will emerge, by chieftain

By Emmanuel Oladesu

L

AGOS State All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Chief Akanni Seriki has said that the governorship candidate will emerge by merit, urging members to shun religious and ethnic bigotry.

The former Interim Vice Chairman (Lagos East) also advised aspirants to desist from politics of desperation and blackmail, which he said, are counter-productive.

No fewer than 14 contenders are jostling for the ticket. They include Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, House of Representatives Minority Leader Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, House of Representatives member Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, House of Assembly Speaker Yemi Ikuforiji, the former Accountant-General, Mr. Akin Ambode, Commissioner for Works Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, his Agriculture counterpart Gbolahan Lawal, former Heath Commissioner Dr. Leke Pitan, and Mr. Fowler. Others are the APC National Legal Adviser Dr. Muiz Banire, former Head of Service Segun Ogunlewe and Alobo Bakare. But, the State Executive Committee of the party led by Chief Oladele Ajomale has not released nomination guidelines.

Seriki, who spoke with reporters in Lagos, cautioned against ethnicity, emphasising that indigeneship is not an issue in Lagos politics. He urged the aspirants to brace up for primaries and shun politics of destruction.

He said: “When election is approaching, people peddle lies and rumours. They will start to brand aspirants who have an edge as nonindigenes, despite the fact that these aspirants have served the state for many years in the public service.

“I have looked at the 1999 Contitution and there is no provision that says that only indigenes of a state should be elected as the governor, commissioner and special adviser. Even, in Lagos State, Akabueze and Igbokwe are appointees. Let us forget ethnicity. Obama, whose father was from Kenya, is the President of United States of America. Let the aspirants go and face primaries.”

Seriki explained that party elders and other stakeholders under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu will not let the state down in the course of selecting a credible candidate for the party. He cautioned against making uncomplimentary statement against the leader by desperate politicians, saying that Tinubu is a man of vision, foresight and courage.

The politician, who reflected on the zoning of the slot to the East District, said that Epe is entitled to bid for it in an atmosphere devoid of strife and rancour. He said the party leaders from the area will brainstorm on this challenge so that “Epe does not lose the slot.”

Seriki also spoke on the clamour for internal democracy by some aspirants, saying that the term is not beyond the ken and comprehension of the APC leaders. He explained that internal democracy does not translate into the rejection of elderly advice and gerontocratic guidance.

The party elder advised certain aspirants to threat softly and avoid making inflammatory statement capable of causing discord and eroding confidence and trust in the party. He said that it is ironic that some aspirants crying foul over an imaginary imposition were beneficiaries of similar impositions in the past.

Seriki said that there is no aspirant itching to succeed Governor Babatunde Fashola who has not benefitted from the system before, urging them to acknowledge that, out of the 15 aspirants, only one person will emerge as the flag bearer.

He also urged them to cooperate with Tinubu and other leaders in their bid to protect the progressive legacies in the Centre of Excellence.

Seriki said: I laugh when they talk about imposition. There is no candidate that has not been imposed before. They should remember that the old leaders who brought them into politics have never achieved the feats they have achieved in politics. There •Ajomale is the need for political contentment.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

45

HEALTH THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

Renal and cardiac patients may no longer have to travel abroad for treatment, courtesy of the Lagos State Government, which has built a facility to handle such conditions. OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA reports.

No longer a foreign issue •Local treatment for renal, cardiac conditions

I

T may soon be a thing of the past to travel abroad for treatment of renal and cardiac conditions. Reason: The Lagos state Government has built a two-storey Cardiac and Renal Centre where such problems can be handled. The facility is 67-bed at the General Hospital, Gbagada, an annex of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

The facility will offer out-patient services, diagnostic services, ultrasound, CT scan, Echo cardiography, Stress Electrocardiography, laboratory services, fluoroscopy, ocular investigation for complications from hypertension, diabetes and renal conditions. Other services are haemodialysis for acute and chronic kidney diseases with 24 dialysis machines, admission for all cardiac conditions that require hospital stay, critical care in intensive care unit (ICU) and high dependency wards, cardiac catherisation, non- invasive cardiology, open heart surgery, renal surgery, nursing and diabetic rehabilitation and corporate wellness programmes.

According to the Health Commissioner, Dr Jide Idris, the government embarked on the project to help those with renal failure.

Idris said the cardiac and renal diseases constitute a growing health burden globally, ading that there is what is called a triple jeopardy in the health sector especially in Lagos and Nigeria which requires the efforts of all to address.

“We have what we call double jeopardy but now it is triple jeopardy in the sense that we do not only have problems with communicable diseases, we are now having problems with non-communicable diseases, and the third one has to do with mental health. But this project is trying to address the major aspect of the non-communicable disease burden.

“The non-communicable disease burden prompted the state government to embark on the screening of people for hypertension and diabetes which are major contributor to the cardiac and renal ailment burden as part of the of its preventive and health promotion strategy. The study from screening conducted state-wide showed that roughly 20 per cent of the people who were screened were hypertensive and between five and six per cent were diabetic.

“Not only that, we also do know that these two disease burden jointly cause serious complications in people who have these problems; and once you have these problems, you have them for live if they are not properly treated”, Idris explained.

Over the years, he said the government has been sponsoring people abroad on various medical problems that could not be treated at home, adding: “It is the copulation of these factors that prompted the state government to build the cardiac and renal centre. We also find a way of staffing it with indigenous expertise by inviting Nigerian medics in diaspora to provide the needed services to treat people of these ailments, reduce the number of money

we are spending to sponsor people abroad, and more importantly to build local capacity of medics”.

“Setting up of the facility will help bring back home Nigerian medical specialists, as a way of ‘brain gain’ to defeat the ‘brain drain’ phenomenon.

Over the years, quite a number of indigenous medical personnel have left the country for greener pastures outside of the country due to lack of infrastructure and facilities they could exhibit their skills with.

“We have over 2000 specialists in the United States, similar number in Europe and Canada. And this is one way of ‘brain gaining’ instead of ‘brain drain’ because if you establish a facility with the right equipment and infrastructure, we can use that to attract the specialists abroad back home where they can exhibit their expertise and at the same time use it to build local capacity here. That was the basic underlining reasons why we decided to embark on this project”.

The commissioner explained that the project started in 2008 when it was awarded to Messr Deaux Project Limited, stressing that the facility which was also equipped by the company will be managed privately through a five-year operation and management concession by a competent consortium of medical professionals.This is renewable for another five-year term subject to satisfactory performance and mutual agreement of the parties wherein the proponent will provide all the health care services; clinical and nonclinical and total facilities management required for the value-engineering renal and cardiac centre.

He said the need to get a suitably qualified and competent consortium that has the needed requirement to run the facility prompted the state to opt for a public-private-partnership agreement through the office of public-private partnership, culminated in the appointment of Renescor Health Limited Liability Partnership to manage the facility.

Idris listed training of local medical personnel especially the establishment of a state government sponsored foreign capacity building for

•The Cardiac and Renal centre

medical personnel as part of the concession agreement aside the operation and management concession.

The Commissioner for Finance who doubles as the Supervising Head for the Public-Private Partnership Office, Mr. Ayo Gbeleyi, said the reason for opting for qualified competent consortium of medical professionals to manage the facility through a PPP initiative was due to the dearth of appropriate competent staff in this environment and the highly specialised nature of the equipment and services to be rendered within the facility.

He said the PPP office is quite convinced of the capabilities of the private managers, “they are expected to provide quality services in line with international best practices, promote medical tourism, provide training field to develop the capacity of state’s owned health personnel and facilitate a gradual paradigm shift on dependence on foreign hand with the skilled empowerment of local professionals.”

While signing the concession agreement for the take-off and management of the Cardiac and Renal Centre with the commissioners on behalf of the state government, the Managing Director of Renescor Health Limited Liability Partnership, Dr. Ladi Awosika, gave kudos

‘Training of local medical personnel especially the establishment of a state government sponsored foreign capacity building for medical personnel are part of the concession agreement aside the operation and management concession’ to the state government for building the state-of-the-art facilities which he described as first of its kind in sub Saharan Africa taking out South Africa and Angola. ”The cardiac and renal centre has been built to very good specification that specialists that have signed up with the company attest to, stressing that the centre has facility for telemedicine which will make every procedure going on in this facility to be reviewed by colleagues anywhere in the world thereby ensuring that training and cutting edge facility therapy will be available at the facility.

“Messr Renescour is made up mainly of Nigerian specialists who have been in the Diaspora and could not get any space to work in Nige-

ria. When they saw what was on ground, they pledged to contribute their quota through the facility. As at today, we have about 200 Nigerian specialists who have signed on to be a part of this. Some of them have decided that it will not even be for money, rather they will take one or two weeks vacation to be at this centre to impart their knowledge and skills to the people of Lagos in particular and Nigeria in general”, he stated.

Awosika said more facilities of the magnitude of the cardiac and renal centre are required in the state to be able to satisfy the demand of more than 21 million residents of the state and promote medical tourism in Lagos. He, thereafter, pledged that his company will not let the state down.

Cancer centre to train oncologists, others

A

PRIVATELY-owned cancer facility in Ghana, SwedenGhana Medical Centre (SGMC) has said oncologists and other health care workers in Nigeria and other West African countries can be trained in its facility for improved performance.

According to the centre, interested candidates only need to apply through their institutions.

Its Medical Director Jens Engelson, said building capacity of professionals will increase access to the management and treatment of cancer.

Engelson identified people’s lifestyle as a major predisposing factor to cancer diseases.

He said increased awareness has helped to ensure more people get diagnosed of the disease, adding: “Most cases are already there but we do not have a proper system in place to cap-

By Wale Adepoju

ture them”.

The level of awareness and diagnosis, he said, has improved a lot in the last few years.

The centre’s Chief Executive Officer Joshua Tetteh, said it takes a lot to run a cancer centre.

He said there must be uninterrupted power supply daily as well as an enabling environment. Besides, there is the need for atomic energy permission and other support structures because cancer treatment requires a lot of logistics”.

Tetteh said cancer patients in Nigeria and other countries in the re-

gion have been accessing treatment in the facility at a reduced cost.

Patients, he said need not journey to India and the United States for cancer treatment.

Many patients at the centre, the CEO said, are having palliative care because they presented their cases too late.

Why elders need physical treatment, by expert

P

RESIDENT, Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP) Mr Taiwo Oyewumi has recommended physiotherapy treatment for the elderly to keep them healthy.

According to him, the aged require the services of physiotherapists to be free from old age-related diseases and conditions such as stroke and

By Wale Adepoju

arthritis.

Oyewumi, who spoke at a media parley in Lagos, said patients who visit physiotherapists are not likely to suffer from age-related diseases.

He said physiotherapists are qualified and professionally required to undertake comprehensive assess-

ment of the patients or clients.

Besides, they evaluate the findings from the examination and assessment to make clinical judgment regarding a patient or client based on clinical reasoning and decision making process.

He added: “They also formulate the diagnosis, treatment plan, interven-

46

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

HEALTH

NAFDAC seeks harmonisation of medicineregulation in West Africa N ATIONAL Agency for Food and Drug and Administration Control (NAFDAC) Director-General Dr Paul Orhii urged Heads of National Medicine Regulatory Authorities (NMRA) and West African Economic Monetary Union (WAEMU) to adopt the harmonisation of medicine regulation in the region.

The call was made at a meeting of NMRA and WAEMU in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The meeting is to promote the adoption of standards, documentation and procedures for medicine regulation among ECOWAS member-countries.

Dr Orhii noted the benefits of common guidelines and gover-

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

nance mechanism which, according to him, will see the sub-region witness an improved public health as a result of the rapid access to safe and efficacious medicine to treat priority diseases.

Other benefits of harmonisation, according to him, are the economic gains that can be derived from harmonising documentation and the attendant cost reduction for regulatory authorities.

Orhii said the harmonisation will reduce duplication as it affects inspection activities and cut down

cost initially incurred from sponsoring large number of inspectors

by National Medicine Regulatory Authorities to manufacturing companies, reduce burden on companies, increase capacity building and information sharing, whilst improving regulatory confidence among member states.

The participants resolved at the end of the meeting to agree to work together to achieve convergence in three years, prepare a common action plan based on the commonalities observed in the action plan presented by WAEMU and non WAEMU groups and to form a short

term plan to be submitted to the partners for funding.

The participants also agreed to set up a technical committee to develop a long term project proposal for submission to the partners.

Other resolutions of the meeting include recommendation to Ministers of Health in the region to ensure the setting of autonomous medicine regulatory authorities in countries where they do not exist to facilitate the harmonisation process.

The participants also advocated for the adoption of the validated common technical document (CTD) format for medicine regulation in the 15 countries of the ECOWAS. The meeting also resolved to

strengthen inter country collaboration despite the language barriers to accelerate the convergence.

In furtherance of the above, the meeting requested WAEMU and WAHO to accelerate the setting up and functioning of the regional steering committee during the three years transition period.

According to the Public Relations Officer the agency, Mrs Christy Obiazikwor, the harmonidation will, no doubt, boost economy of Nigeria in line with President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda following the prequalification drive of Nigerian Pharmaceutical companies and subsequent WHO GMP certification of one of the companies.

Paediatricians want Chibok girls back

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HE Paediatic Association of Nigeria (PAN) has appealed to the abductors of the Chibok girls to release them so that they can re-unite with their parents.

According to the association, the continued detention of the remaining 219 girls is a cause of great concern to it as an ssociation.

In a statement made available to The Nation and signed by its President, Prof Adebiyi Olowu and National Secretary, Jerome Elusiyan, the harrowing experience the girls are being subjected to in the past two months is beyond imagination.

“The health needs of these adolescent girls- physical, mental and psychological - could hardly be met outside their natural homes. The ef-

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

fects of the psychological abuse already suffered by these innocent girls may last longer than the duration of their abduction and indeed their families share in the extreme impact of the pains of this terrorist act. Paediatricians across the country commiserate with the parents, family and friends of these children,” they stated.

The association said it joined other well-meaning Nigerians to appeal to the government to take the release of these girls as topmost priority to prevent further deterioration of their health. While it appreciates the efforts of government so far, they said the safe release of all the girls will be the only yardstick of a successful effort.

Firm inaugurates new mobile ultrasound

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oyal Philips International Company has inaugurated its new ultra-mobile ultrasound system VISQ in Lagos to save expectant mothers from complications and preventable deaths.

According to the company’s General Manager, Africa, Peter van de Ven, the device will ensure proper screening of expectant mothers to detect complications early.

He spoke during the Lagos leg of its yearly pan-African Cairo to Cape Town Roadshow.

The GM said: “Most women in Africa are at significant risk of premature death because of the high maternal mortality rates of expectant mothers”.

The ultrasound device, he said, is portable and accessible to expectant mothers in remote areas, especially those who could not access innovative technology.

By Wale Adepoju

“It makes me proud to see how cost-effective, easy to operate ultrasound systems can make a real life difference in Africa. It shows that meaningful innovations can contribute to saving people’s lives,” he said.

He said the equipment will provide high quality images for expectant mothers wherever care is taking place, adding that it is simplified and patient-focused with high clinical performance.

Quoting the World Health Organisation (WHO), he said diagnostic imaging is crucial in health care.

Many developing countries, he said, cannot afford to purchase expensive high technology imaging equipment despite the urgent need to use imaging resources.

•The Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu laying the foundation for the international headquarter of the West African College of Surgeons (WACS). With him from left are: Secretary General of the college, Dr Tola Olatosi; President, Prof Kofi Herve Yangni-Angate; First Vice President, Prof Akinyinka Omigbodun and the Project Manager, Architect Gbeke Oshunkoya.0

5000 pupils dewormed in Kano

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S part of its corporate social responsibility, Dana Drugs Limited has dewormed about 5000 school children in Kano State.

The deworming exercise was flagged off by the Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso at the government House.

Kano branch Manager Dana Drugs Limited, Mr Kishore said the exercise was meant to prevent school children from worm-related diseases in their tender age.

The three-day event was conducted in collaboration with the

By Amidu Arije

Kano State Ministry of Health and Kano State Ministry of Education.

According to the Kano government, the exercise was part of the Maternal and Child Health Care day of de-worming of children under five years of age.

No fewer than three public primary schools benefited from the exercise with Wormidan (albendazole) tablets/suspensions.

The schools were Kawo Cikin Gari Primary School from Nassarawa Local Government Area; Kwalli

Primary School from Kano Municipal Local Government Area and Maikalwa Special Primary School from Kumbotso Local Government Area.

The school children were given health talks by the officials at the school-based de-worming exercise.

Customised gift items from the company were given to every school pupil.

This is the fourth in the company’s series of nation-wide school-based de-worming project which began in 2013 with Osun, Lagos and Niger states.

•From left: Prof. Adetokunbo Fabanwo; Prof. Wole Atoyebe and Chief Medical Director (CMD), •A cross section of parcticipants at the one day event on sexual violence in Lagos, orgainsed by LASUTH, Prof Wale Oke at the Medical Guild Ordinary General Meeting held at the Medical Mirabel centre and partnership for Justice, held at office of the public Defender, Surulere Lagos and Research Centre (MRC) Auditorium, LASUTH, Ikeja.

TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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property@thenationonlineng.net muyiwalucas2002@yahoo.com

Trouble is brewing in Amu, Mushin, a Lagos community over the blockage of a canal by a developer, reports MUYIWA LUCAS.

Living in fear

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ESIDENTS of Akingbola, Amu, Cash, C.A.C, Adedokun and Oduduwa streets in Mushin, a popular Lagos subsurb, are living in fear of flooding. They are worried over a fence and culvert constructed on the path of a canal that runs through the area. The development is threatening peace in the area.

From Agege Motor Road, the canal runs through Akingbola Street to connect the Oke-Afa canal in Isolo. Therefore, any obstruction to the flow of the canal would have a backlash on communities on its axis.

When The Nation visited the area last week, bricklayers were seen constructing the fence, leaving no space between the canal’s edge and the fence.

Apostle Timothy Ogungbesan, chairman, Amu Community Development Association (CDA), told The Nation that the community has complainted to the local government. Some members of the community, he said, have also gone to the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LSBCA) whose officials have stopped work on the site. He said the owner defaced the “stop work” inscription placed on the site.

“We wrote the local government (Mushin) to intimate them of the havoc the construction will wreck on this community if it is allowe to remain. Allowing this structure will be tantamount to allowing flood to destroy our lives and properties in this communities because whenever it rains, that channel is where the flood flows through. But the structure has now disrupted flood such that it now flows into the adjacent streets,” Ogungbesan explained.

Though the community leaders claim to be in the dark over what would be built on the large expanse of land, they are resolute in their demand that the government should stop the construction on the canal because of its dire consequences to lives and properties.

They alleged that Mr. Bayo Abdul, the property owner, broke part of the canal during the construction.

The Nation’s findings showed that Abdul incurred the communities’ ire when he decided to extend the fence by 18 feet, bringing it close to the canal with less than two inches.

Chief Jimoh Apena, a 74-year-old community leader and chairman of Cash Street CDA, said Abdul bought the land about five years ago.

“Bayo (Abdul) came to meet us that he wanted to demolish the original fence that was built in 1958; he said he wanted to use the 18-ft set back and we explained to him that the space was left because of the canal in case it was to be evacuated. Besides, there is a mandatory setback which the government expects from any land development.

Two companies have used that land before he bought it and they didn’t

• The culvert built over the canal. On the fence is the government’s marking allegedly defaced by the land owner.

• Pa. Apena

lay claim to the setback, so why him?” he asked rhetorically, appealing that the government should come to the aid of the community before a major disaster happens.

“On June 26, this year, a new twist was introduced into the matter when policemen from Zone D, Isolo, visited the community. At the end of their visit, 13 people, including Pa Apena and his daughter, were arrested and whisked away to the Zone D Area Command. The police were allegedly brought by Abdul.

“When I came out to intervene, he (Abdul) told the police to arrest me too. I was arrested and taken to Zone D, Isolo Road, in my knickers. I was arrested with my daughter; but released on bail with my daughter on the same day, but the others were put in cell till the next day,” Pa Apena said.

He said the Zone D Area Commander appealed to the parties to embrace peace and since it is not

• Apostle Ogungbesan

within the command’s jurisdiction to intervene in land matters, he directed them to the Lands Bureau to solve the problem.

But Abdul debunked the allegations, saying he only recovered his “property from trespassers”.

“There is nothing wrong in what we have done. Trespassers broke the fence over two months ago and we are only trying to rebuild it. I have papers (documents) for everything we are doing on that land, and it is approved by the government. I have permission from LSDPC, Ilupeju to do what I am doing,” he said in a telephone interview.

He said the disputed setback was used by artisans in the community as a mechanic workshop, adding that this not only constituted a nuisance, but made a mess of his property, turning it into a dumping ground for rubbish, including faeces.

Abdul said he had an understanding with the government which

‘Besides, the state government is said to be intolerant of acts that endanger the lives of the people, hence, it is ‘not possible for approval to be given for construction in places that constitute potential disaster’ ‘

stipulated that whenever the need arose for the setback, he would hand it over to the government for use.

Explaining his role in the arrest of the residents, Abdul said Pa Apena was only invited by the police. He said the community leader and his daughter were released immediately. “I see the Apena as my uncle. I respect them a lot in the community and I love them.

But the old man threatened my life and I reported to the police,” Abdul added.

Pa Apena denied threatening Abdul, alleging that Abdul used the police to harass people in the neighbourhood.

At the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development (MPP & UD), Alausa, Ikeja, officials declined to comment because as “civil servants, we are not authorised to speak to the press”. A top source in the ministry told this reporter that the ministry would never approve such a development near a canal.

According to the source, the state, determined to forestall future building collapse and protect the environment, is enforcing the 2010 law on building.

“At the site you are talking about, did you see any project board there? If you didn’t, then it is illegal construction going on there,” the top source explained.

He further added that the ministry is the only government agency vested with the authority to give approval to buildings or any construction in the state. Setbacks, the source emphasised, is mandatory and the government would not compromise on it for any reason.

The same scenario played out at the Lagos State Ministry of Environment, Alausa. This reporter was informed by a senior official, who pleaded anonymity, that construction along waterways or canals is illegal. Besides, the state government is said to be intolerant of acts that endanger the lives of the people, hence, it is “not possible for approval to be given for construction in places that constitute potential disaster.”

Nigerite unveils special ceiling

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HE Marketing Director of Nigerite Limited, Mr Toyin

Gbede, has reiterated the company’s commitment to quality products. This, he said, is in tandem with the firm’s drive to sustain its new vision of being the number one market leader in the sector.

This has led to the introduction of Klassik Ceil, a four by four feet ceiling, and Nigerite Prestige.

The Klassik Ceil was unveiled last week to distributors, carpenters and customers in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ilorin and some other parts of Southwest.

He said the new product is a child of surveys by the company whose result revealed the preference of the market for three types of pattern, making Nigerite to specially manufacture three pattern machines for that purpose.

“Although Klassik Ceil emerged the most loved during the survey, it was the one we found most challenging in terms of coming up with the pattern machine. It is the first ceiling product of that size and it comes in white and grey colour. It can also be combined with prestige and plain,” Gbede said.

Secretariat for surgeons

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

T

HE foundation for the permanent secretariat of the West African College of Surgeons (WASC) has been laid by the Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu in Yaba, Lagos. The planned five-strorey building is on Harvey Road, off Medical Compound, Yaba, Lagos Mainland.

Laying the foundation, the Minister, Prof Chukwu, a Fellow of the College said Nigeria is privileged to have the headquaters of the prestigious college.

Chukwu said: “This foundation laying marks the attainment of yet another significant milestone in the proud history of the college which has demonstrated in clear terms that you can start small, never despising the days of small beginnings, and you can achieve greatness on the long run, if you believe your ability and trudge on, no matter the daunting challenges on your way.

“I wish to most heartily commend the initiators of this most noble endeavous for their vision and courage not only in conceptualising a befitting permanent secretariat for the college but daring to put the first foot forward in this march towards the realisation of the dream. You certainly fit the description of surgeons having the vision of eagles and the heart of lions.”

The Minister he had no doubts that the surgeons would not cringe from seeing the project through no matter the cost, adding: “Only the eyes of the childhood fears a painted devil.”

The college’s President Prof Kofi Herve Yangni-Angate, an Ivorien, said the secretariat would serve the college’s needs.

“The foundation laying ceremony is the beginning of the realisation of this noble dream. It will be a place of innovation; brainstorming; development; building solid human capacities for all the West-African sub-region,” he said.

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TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS ENERGY

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

Planned rural electrification has failed, T says minister

HE proposed rural electrification has hit the brickwall, years after it was launched to connect over 2,000 communities to the national grid.

The Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo, said infrastructural deficits, funding, and non-commitment by the communities led to the project’ failure.

He listed insecurity, destruction of power plants’ facilities and lack of interest by the private sector as other factors.

The government, Nebo said, was committed to the production of 6,000 megawatts(MW) by December and 20,000MW by 2020,despite the problems.

He said the objectives of rural electrification and light up communities’ projects had not been achieved.

Nebo said the rural electrification aimed at furthering the goals of the power sector reforms has

By Akinola Ajibade

suffered from inadequate funding.

Rural electrification financing, he said, was too much to be left to the government alone, adding that the private sector must be involved to fast-track its implementation.

He said the cost of providing and maintaining infrastructure was high, adding that it requires more investors.

According to him, providing electricity to communities across the country is complex, giving the people’s needs.

He said: “There are problems hampering the projects. One of

them is funding. The projects are not sustainable because of the fundamental issues that have not been sorted out. That is why it is difficult to set a time-frame or deadline for the completion of the projects across the country. It is obvious that the Federal Government cannot give a time-frame for the projects because of some issues.

We need to study the energy needs and what the energy supply is; we need to study the terrain; we need to look at the best way of bringing electricity to the communities because many of them are not connected to the national grid.’’

Nebo said the government was planning to use renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and biomass

to allow more people access electricity. Solar energy, he said, had been tested and adjudged a veritable means of generating electricity. ‘’Communities have been used as a flagship to demonstrate the efficacy of solar energy. The result shows that communities can be powered 24 hours a day using solar technology. Though they are small plants, they are good. The government is moving in that direction and hope to achieve good results,’’ he said.

Nebo explained that generators come with their health hazards,

Ogoni kicks against Shell’s plan

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From left: Commandant, Critical Infrastructure Protection, Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), H/Q Abuja, Mr. J. I Iyogbo; Chief Finance Officer, Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC), Mr. Aigbe Olotu; Commandant, NSCDC, Lagos State Command, Mr Donatus Ikemefuna and Area Manager, IKEDC, Dare Oyedotun, during a visit to the company by NSCDC officials.

Why LNG projects are delayed, by NNPC chief

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HE Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has explained the delay in take-off of the Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas (OKLNG) and Brass Liquefied Natural Gas (Brass LNG) in Ondo and Rivers states.

They are being delayed by the withdrawal of British Gas (BG) from OKLNG and ConocoPhilips from Brass LNG. NNPC’s Group Managing Director, Andrew Yakubu said the firms’ withdrawal affected the final investment decision (FID) on the projects. Signing of the FID would have given financial backing to the projects, he said.

Yakubu spoke in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, at a workshop for journalists. NNPC, he said, wanted to get the cost of parameters right before taking the FID. He explained that no investor would sign the FID, adding that the project is capital intensive and has long development period that spans over 20 years.

He said: “The NNPC through the Gas and Power Directorate superintends the high value export of gas in the country. The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Company has continued to sustain its production to maintain

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

contractual obligation.

“Just recently, the company delivered its 3000th LNG cargo, a demonstration of its reliability as a source of natural gas supply to the global market.

“The new LNG projects as you may be aware of, has suffered significant disruption following the withdrawal of ConocoPhillips and BG from Brass LNG and OKLNG respectively. We have restructured the project to ensure the attainment of final investment decision within the available global market window.

“NNPC is poised to fully participate across the entire oil and gas value chain taking advantage of associated downstream opportunities that will enhance overall take from its LNG business. To actualise this, we have established NNPC LNG Limited, which will in partnership with its strategic investors; trade LNG in the Atlantic basin, Europe and Asia Pacific markets.”

According to him, NNPC had prepared the ground, set the ball rolling for the signing of the binding document that will give legal and finan-

cial backing to the projects before BG and Conocophilips pull out from the projects.

He explained that ConocoPhillips, for instance, is the technical partner and the provider of technology for the development of Brass LNG, adding that withdrawal of Chevron and BG from OKLNG also affected the development of the project as initially planned.

Yakubu also noted that international oil firms that invest in long- term gestation projects are very conscious of the sacredness of contracts with nations and corporate organisations, adding he would notcommit Nigeria to prolonged legal international tussle when the nation is out to attract foreign direct investment for economic growth.

He also explained that OandoPlc that acquired the assets of ConocoPhillips in Nigeria lacks the technology for the Brass LNG. He said the delay in the take-off of the two projects have denied Nigeria over $3.5billion per year and about 50,000 jobs that would have been created during their construction.

Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas project is located between Ondo and Ogun states while Brass LNG is in Bayelsa State.

noting that the development has resulted in low life expectancy in Nigeria. ‘’People spend more money to acquire kilometres of electricity, using generators. They fuel their generators, and buy candles to get light. They inhale fumes in return.This impairs the lungs of children and cause infections to their system. Renewable energy is devoid of these hazards and not expensive. The government needs communities to buy into the rural electrification projects to record success.

“Communities should realise that power cannot be produced free. The government is trying to help the communities and they should in return embrace the project by participating in it,’’ he added.

HE oil ravaged communities in Ogoniland have said the plan by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to embark on comprehensive clean up of the communities is a ruse.

SPDC Managing Director and Country Chair of Shell companies in Nigeria, Mutiu Sunmonu last week in Lagos hinted that the company would commence an all-inclusive clean up of Bodo and other areas affected by oil spills in Ogoniland in Rivers State.

The Chairman, Council of Chiefs and Elders, Bodo communities, a part of Ogoniland in Gokana Local Government Area in Rivers State, Mene Sylvester Kogbara, said the misgivings arose because Shell had not been consistent in its attempts to address issues affecting the areas.

Kogbara told The Nation that the allegation by Shell that the communities have been cooperating with it to clean the areas affected by oil spills was not true.

He said the communities received the news that Shell would clean their lands with mixed feelings, noting that past efforts yielded no results.

By Akinola Ajibade

He said: ‘’Shell has been saying that it would embark on complete cleaning of the areas affected by oil spills.

We have been negotiating with the company for sometime now. We do not trust the sincerity of Shell on the issue. We need actions and not promises.’’

According to him, the communities have rejected the moves by Shell to start a pilot clean up of the affected communities due to certain problems.

“When Shell wanted to do pilot clean up, we objected to the decision because of its grave implication to the oil producing areas. If you clean up one section at low tide, it will not have effect on the other sections. That would further compound the woes of the residents,’’ he said.

The United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) has directed Shell to address the problems in the oil polluted areas in Ogoniland.

Also, the Federal Government Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project(HYPREP) set up in July 2012 with a mandate to implement UNEP’S recommendation.

This, Sunmonu said, had not come to reality because of challenges facing HYPREP’s execution.

OPEC foresees decline in crude

T

HE Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has said its crude will decline to the lowest in six years, as supplies from United States and other producers are enough to cover the increase in global consumption.

The body, in a statement, said its crude will slide to 29.4 million barrels daily in 2015, 300,000 barrels less than what member countries pumped in June.

OPEC said this would be the third consecutive annual drop in demand for its crude and the lowest since 2009, adding that United States will provide about two-thirds of next year’s supply growth, amid a shale-oil surge that has made the U.S. the world’s biggest producer.

OPEC said: “Even if next year’s world economic growth turns out to be better than expected and crude oil demand outperforms expectations, OPEC will have sufficient supply to provide to the market.”

The U.S. has overtaken Saudi Arabia and Russia as the world’s biggest oil producer as it taps shale formations in Texas and North Dakota by splitting apart rocks with high-pressure liquid, a process known as known as hydraulic frac-

turing, or fracking. Oil prices have remained supported by threats to supplies in OPEC members such as Iraq and Libya, with the Brent benchmark’s loss this year limited to 2.3 per cent.’’

Global demand Brent traded at $108.20 a barrel at 10:50 a.m. London time on the ICE Futures Europe exchange. Global oil demand will expand by 1.2 million barrels a day, or 1.3 per cent, to 92.35 million a day in 2015, a faster pace of expansion than this year’s 1.1 million a day, OPEC said.

World economic growth will quicken next year to 3.4 per cent from 3.1 per cent in 2014, it projected. OPEC kept its forecast for demand this year unchanged, predicting growth of 1.3 per cent to 91.13 million.

Supply growth from outside OPEC will slow next year, according to the report. Non-OPEC producers will increase output by 1.31 million barrels a day, with 880,000 a day of this provided by the U.S., reaching 56.96 million a day. Non-OPEC supply expansion in 2014 is estimated at 1.47 million barrels a day.

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PHOTOS •Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan with Sr Perpetua Apo (left); Sr Catherine Ologunagba and Sr Felicia Ogundana at the Silver Jubilee and celebration of religious profession of the three sisters of St Louis Nigeria Province in Gwagwalada... at the weekend.

•Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam (left); his wife Yemisi assisting Tor Tiv, Dr Alfred Akawe Torkula (middle) to cut his birthday cake in Gberko... at the weekend. With them are Torkula’s wife and musician Zakki Azzay.

PHOTO: UJA EMMANUEL.MAKURDI •Chief Executive Officer, Support Bridges Initiative (SBI), Mrs Folashade Adetiba (middle) being assisted by well-wishers to cut the SBI’s ninth anniversary cake at Isale Eko Senior Grammar School, Lagos... at the weekend.

PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI

•Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Ima Niboro, presenting a birthday card and flowers from President Goodluck Jonathan to the Girls’ Education Campaigner, Malala Yousafzai, at a dinner in her honour in Abuja.. at the weekend.

•L - R: Chikezie Bethel Nwankwo; Ogbonna Chidera; Abdulkareem Dantata, Okafor Ugochukwu; winners of Legend trip to Dubai, Emmanuel Agu, Marketing Manager, Gulder, Legend & Life, Nengak Zunji, Oriladewo Adeleke, Prince Peter Onyeali and Peter Dike, winners of Legend's Trip To Dubai, at The Carrefour, Dubai Shopping Mall, Dubai, after shopping for gift items, at the just concluded Legend Dubai Shopping Experience.

•Asiwaju Oba of Ojoduland, Lagos, Chief Lukman Noah Adetokunbo (right) cutting the tape to inaugurate the Maba Island bridge/launch of 500KVA transformer. With him are chairman, Maba Island Community Development Association Mr Victor Enayaba (left) and Chairman of the occasion Mr Samuel Ogunyemi.

•Chairman, Mushin Local Government, Hon Olatunde Adepitan (right); member, Lagos State House of Assembly and representative of Govenor Babatunde Fashola, Hon Adefunmilayo Tejuosho; Mr Bade Adebowale (representaive of Environment Commissioner) and Vice Chairman of the council, Emmanuel Bamigboye at the 2014 Tree Planting in Mushin...yesterday

•Senator Gbenga Ashafa (Governor Babatunde Fashola’s repesentative) middle; being assisted by chairman, Shomolu local government, Hon Gbolahan Bago-Stowe (left) and Mr Abashin Odunbaku, who represented Commissioner of the Environment during the Seventh Lagos Tree Planting Campaign in Shomolu... yesterday

•Executive Secretary, Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission, Mrs. Tanwa Koya (left); Bimbo Onafowokan; Chairman of board, Mr. Taiwo Shebioba; and Mr Doyin Owolabi during an inspection of the facilities of the Lagos Water Corporation at Iju waterworks.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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MONEYLINK

Standard & Poor’s to rate more banks, regional firms S TANDARD & Poor’s expects to rate a number of Nigerian banks this year and is talking to some Kenyan banks and companies about future credit ratings, its Managing Director for sub-Saharan Africa , Konrad Reuss, has said.

He told Reuters that borrowers across the continent are looking to tap international capital markets following successful bond sales by African countries.

“More Nigerian bank ratings will be coming out later this year.

We are working on a number of corporates in the region,” Reuss said. Borrowers in frontier markets such as Africa have turned to capital markets as aid funding dries up and monetary easing

Stories by Collins Nweze

across the western world keeps interest rates low.

A flood of new issues from subSaharan Africa in the past couple of years, includes a recent debut dollar bond from Diamond Bank.

First Bank of Nigeria is holding a bond road show this week, according to Thomson Reuters service IFR. These bonds follow sovereign dollar debt issuance from Nigeria, which analysts say helped to familiarise investors with the West African economy. Kenya issued a well-received $2 billion bond last month, its first in international markets.

Sterling Bank begins ATM activation

“We are reaching out to Kenya,” Reuss said, referring to plans to discuss ratings with local banks and corporates in the East African country. “On the back of a very successful sovereign bond, a benchmark has been set.”

Tanzania, which has also said it plans to launch a debut Eurobond, has not yet gained a rating.

“Time and time again, the government has made announcements, time and time again those plans were delayed,” Reuss said, adding that any ratings timescale was difficult to predict “because of the many delays that we have seen so far”. S&P officials said they were watching security issues in both Nigeria and Kenya.

Access Bank inaugurates the ‘W’ Initiative for Women

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CCESS Bank Plc at the weekend, unveiled the ‘W’ initiative in its renewed efforts to offer women exclusive access to a wide range of lifestyle-oriented value added benefits and privileges.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the event held in Lagos at the weekend, the Group Managing Director/CEO, Herbert Wigwe, said the initiative would also support small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) owned by women.

“If you look at SMEs today, they are controlled about 30 per cent by women and yet nobody pays attention to them. From my own experience when we started it in 2006, they

had the lowest default rate.

“The second and most important thing is that by supporting women and the businesses that they do, it would lead to economic growth in this country. It is not a new initiative, it is something we started in 2006, but we are re-launching it properly and embedding it in our institution,” he said.

According to Wigwe, every staff member of Access Bank now understands and pays greater attention to women and their needs.

With the initiative, he said women now have an online community with ‘W’ where they can reach out and connect. “So it is all about the women

•MD Sterling Bank, Yemi Adeola

S

TERLING Bank has begun a four-week pan Nigeria ATM Activation at its selected Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) locations. The project is meant to deepen the use of ATM as alternative channel for banking transactions in Nigeria and in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives.

The locations for the four-week

FCMB rewards customers

who want to be inspired, connected and empowered. ‘W’ speaks to the strength that every woman around the world carries. It is about women, the Nigerian women and women around the world,” he added.

Also speaking during the event, Senator Ita Giwa described the ‘W’ Initiative as an uncommon plan to raise the status of women in the country. She said Nigerian women have performed exceptionally well and need to be supported. “I thank Access Bank for restoring the dignity of Nigerian women. The programme is one way of getting our women to stop begging and add value to the society,” she said.

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HE second phase of the First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited promo, t agged ‘’FCMB 30th Anniversary Promo Reloaded’’, has rewarded the first set of lucky customers across the country at the Regional and Zonal draws held last week, nationwide.

While three customers of the bank were rewarded with N1million each at the Regional draws held in Lagos, Abuja and Abia State, a total of 130 others went home with generator sets, television, DVDs and other exciting prizes at the Zonal draws held in 26 locations in the country.

At the Lagos/South-West Regional draw which took place at

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

Offer Price

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

168.45 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.39 1,663.89 1,663.89 1,05.92 1,087.30 1.3451 1.3635 1.0178 1.1855

167.01 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.33 1,663.89 1,663.89 119.71 1,087.00

GAINERS AS AT 14-07-14

RETAIL DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM (RDAS) Transaction Dates 7/14/14 7/9/14 7/7/14

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

8.0%

Monetary Policy Rate

12.0%

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

154.73

155.73

264.8049

266.5163

210.897

212.26

173.7173

174.84

Yen

1.5244

1.5343

CFA

0.3017

0.3217

238.3058

239.8459

24.9306

25.0926

Riyal

41.258

41.5257

SDR

239.1352

240.6807

$38.1bn

US Dollar

0.91

0.05

Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

$110.44

Pounds Sterling

32.55

34.17

1.62

Money Supply (M2)

N15.9 trillion.

CAVERTON

6.47

6.79

0.32

Euro

INFINITY

1.61

1.68

0.07

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

N16.76 trillion

Swiss Franc

WAPIC ASHAKACEM

C/PRICE

0.86

WEMABANK

0.98

1.02

0.04

UPL

4.23

4.40

0.17

MANSARD

2.52

2.62

0.10

MBENEFIT

0.54

0.56

0.02

JAPAULOIL

0.57

0.59

0.02

GUARANTY

29.97

31.00

1.03

LOSERS AS AT 14-07-14

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

ETERNA

4.45

4.25

-0.20

ABCTRANS

0.90

0.86

-0.04

COSTAIN

1.37

1.31

-0.06

PORTPAINT

5.13

4.92

-0.21

NIGERINS JBERGER GUINNESS IKEJAHOTEL UNILEVER 7UP

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

Amount Sold in ($) 305.4m 279.08m 342.8m

Currency

Foreign Reserves

O/PRICE

Amount Offered in ($) 350M 300m 350m

CBN EXCHANGE RATES July 14, 2014

Inflation: May

CHANGE

SYMBOL

Matori in Lagos State, Olaniyi Ayodele received the reward of N1million, while the North Regional draw held in Abuja awarded Chizoba Asilugwa also with the same amount, and at the South-East/South-South Regional draw held at Aba in Abia State, also today, Peter Ndukwe walked away with N1million as well.

Speaking on the promo, FCMB’s Executive Director, Lagos & South-west, Mr. Femi Bakre, stated that the event was in fulfillment of the promise made by the Bank at the commencement of the second phase of the promo, which started in May 2014 and will run till September 2014.

DATA BANK

Bid Price

1.3361 1.3635 0.9999 1.1855

programme will include Lagos (Adeola Odeku, Demurin, Surulere and Ikorodu) which is currently running, South-West (Ilorin and Ibadan), North (Abuja and Kano/Kaduna), East (Onitsha) and South-South (Port Harcourt).

In addition to using the platform to encourage the use of ATMs in Nigeria in line with the cashless economy policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the lender will provide exclusive offerings to customers that use the ATM points within this period.

Some of the gift items and services on offer, include makeovers, photography sessions, saloon services, spa /relaxation services, fashion incentives, exotic car rides, drinks and one on one engagement with celebrities.

Rate (%)

Rate (%)

Overnight (O/N)

10.500

10.500

1M

12.175

12.101

3M

13.328

13.225

6M

14.296

14.-85

WAUA Yuan/Renminbi

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

July 4, 2014

July 7, 2014

T-bills - 91

9.98

10.00

T-bills - 182

10.00

10.07

T-bills - 364

10.22

10.22

Bond - 3yrs

11.26

11.37

Bond - 5yrs

11.36

11.41

Bond - 7yrs

11.77

11.86

FOREX RATES

0.54

0.52

-0.02

68.05

66.01

-2.04

R-DAS ($/N)

157.29

157.29

205.00

199.50

-5.50

Interbank ($/N)

162.75

162.75

0.76

0.74

-0.02

Parallel ($/N)

167.50

167.50

51.50

50.24

-1.26

102.53

100.03

-2.50

54

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 14-07-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 14-07-14

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

55

EQUITIES

Nigerian equities regain modest rally N

IGERIAN equities opened this week with a modest rally, halting a two-day decline that had closed the market at the weekend.

While there was still widespread bearish sentiments, bullish rally within highly capitalised stocks supported a modest market recovery.

The composite benchmark index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the All Share Index (ASI), rallied by 0.23 per cent yesterday to close at 42,930.60 points as against its opening index of 42,832.82 points. Aggregate market value of all quoted equities added N33 bil-

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

lion to close at N14.176 trillion compared with its opening value of N14.143 trillion.

The NSE 30 Index, which tracks the performance of the top 30 companies, rose by 0.24 per cent or 4.7 basis points to close at 1,950.39 basis points. The uptrend nudged the average year-to-date return to 3.87 per cent.

With 27 gainers to 29 losers, the uptrend was orchestrated by gains recorded by some highly capitalised stocks such as Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria, Guaranty Trust Bank, Forte Oil, Stanbic IBTC Holdings and Ecobank

Transnational Incorporated.

The banking sub-sector led the activity chart, accounting for 37.4 per cent of total turnover traded for the day. Banking subgroup recorded a turnover of 175.233 million shares worth N1.303bn were traded in 1,688 deals.

Volume was driven by trading in the shares of Unity Bank Plc, Wema Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and Access Bank Plc. United Bank for Africa and Zenith International Bank Plc also recorded high turnover. Total turnover stood at 468.56 million equities valued at N6.2bn in 5,502 deals.

In percentage terms, Wapic Insurance Plc led the gainers, rising by 5.81 per cent or five kobo to close at 91 kobo per share. It was followed by Ashaka Cement Plc and Caverton Offshore Support Group, which gained 4.98 per cent and 4.95 per cent to close at N34.17 and N6.79 per share, respectively. On the downside, Eterna Plc led the losers, shedding 4.49 per cent or 20 kobo to close at N4.25 per share. ABC Transport Company Plc and Costain (West Africa) Plc fell by 4.44 per cent and 4.38 per cent to close at 0.86 per cent and N1.31 per cent, respectively, while Portland Paints and Products Nigeria Plc declined by 4.09 per cent or 21 kobo to close at

N4.92 per share.

In value terms, Ashaka Cement led the gainers with a gain of N1.62 to close at M34.17. Guaranty Trust Bank followed with a gain of N1.03 to close at N31.

Lafarge Wapco rose by 97 kobo to close at N113. Forte Oil gathered 94 kobo to close at N235. Stanbic IBTC Holdings added 45 kobo to close at N27.50 while ETI rose by 28 kobo to close at N17.50 per share.

On the other hand, Guinness Nigeria recorded the highest loss of N5.50 to close at N199.50. Julius Berger Nigeria dropped by N2.04 to close at N66.01. Seven-Up Bottling Company lost N2.50 to close at N100.03. Seplat Petroleum Development Company slipped by N2 to close at N700. Flour Mills of Nigeria lost N1.30 to close at N76.70 while Unilever Nigeria dropped by N1.26 to close at N50.24.

Afrinvest declares N44m interim dividend for NIDF

N Zenith Bank, others partner on entrepreneurial development

Z

ENITH Bank Plc, British Council and Virgin Atlantic have formed a partnership to promote the development of young entrepreneurs. The initiative, known as Enterprise Challenge, is an online competition for Nigerians entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35 years and living in Nigeria or studying in the United Kingdom (UK). The apprentice-style competition took place over three rounds, during which candidates wrote an essay on their entrepreneurial journeys, created a video pitch for their businesses or business plans, and had their ideas scrutinised by a panel of experts in Nigeria and the UK. More than 1000 young Nigerian entrepreneurs entered the competition – which was organised by British Council in partnership with Virgin Atlantic and with financial support from Zenith Bank

in order to help talented young Nigerians develop their entrepreneurial skills.

Two of Nigeria’s brightest young entrepreneurs have had a business master class from Sir Richard Branson, after winning a competition

by British Council and Virgin Atlantic in partnership with Zenith Bank.

Eseoghene Odiete and Nasir Yammama won the latest edition of Enterprise Challenge.

The mentoring session between the two winners of the enterprise challenge competition and Sir Richard Branson took place on July 1 in London. The session was designed so that the winners could ask about and learn from the magnate’s life and business experiences.

Founder and chairman, Virgin Group, Sir Richard Branson, said Virgin Atlantic was delighted to have supported the Enterprise Challenge

programme dedicated to supporting young Nigerian entrepreneurs and fostering new ideas.

“Innovation has been an important part of Virgin’s heritage and I was pleased to see so many young Nigerians keen to embrace new ideas through the competition.

Many congratulations to Ese and Nasir who had fantastic business plans and I’m sure will have very bright futures,” Branson said.

Odiete runs Hesey Designs – an online store selling African-inspired accessories, which also helps to empower and mentor other young African women.

“It was an awesome experience meeting and learning from Richard Branson; one that will change my life and business and take it to a whole new level. I am super grateful for the opportunity,” Odiete said.

Yammama, a postgraduate student at Middlesex University in London, won with a business plan for a mobile phone application called Verdant to help crop farmers.

He said the Enterprise Challenge has been a remarkable competition which has not only helped to develop his skills but exposed him to a whole new way of looking things from writing to pitching and presentation.

“Also, the calibre of people I have been able to interact and network with is the absolute thing every aspiring entrepreneur and innovator wishes to associate with. And meeting Sir Richard Branson was a priceless opportunity that I will continue to value immensely. I have been able to acquire so much wisdom and inspiration that I feel ready and bound to exceed all expectation,” Yammama said.

BRICS launches $150b reserve fund, bank

T

HE leaders of five of the world’s largest emerging markets will showcase a new currency reserve fund and development bank this week. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, known as the BRICS, will approve the creation of the $100 billion reserve fund and $50 billion bank at a July 15-16 summit in Brazil’s coastal city of Fortaleza and the capital Brasilia, President Dilma Rousseff and other officials said last week.

The initiatives are born out of frustration with a lack of participation in global governance, particularly in the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, said Arvind Subramanian, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. The measures aren’t big enough to boost growth or cohesion in the group as foreign investor sentiment sours and member states focus on issues close to home, such as Brazil’s elections, the conflict in Ukraine and new economic

policy plans in India.

“It’s hard to see a lot of impetus at this stage for the BRICS in general and for these initiatives in particular,” Subramanian said by telephone from Washington. “There’s going to be a lot of attention on domestic issues.”

Bloomberg reported that economic growth in the five countries is projected to average 5.37 per cent this year, half the pace seen seven years ago, according to the median estimate of economists surveyed by Bloomberg. Brazil and Russia will grow 1.3 percent and 0.5 percent, respectively.

Yuri Ushakov, Russian presidential aide on foreign policy, said in an interview that the group’s growth rate is still above that of the global average and that its economic and political weight is increasing.

The BRICS have evolved from the original term coined in 2001 by thenGoldman Sachs Group Inc. economist Jim O’Neill to describe the growing weight of the largest emerging markets in the global economy. In 2011,

South Africa joined to give the BRICS a broader geographic representation. The group’s track record in pursuing a common agenda on the world stage has been mixed.

“It’s easier to say what the BRICS aren’t than what they are,” said Jose Alfredo Graca Lima, undersecretary for political affairs at the Brazilian Foreign Ministry.

The five countries failed to agree on a candidate to head the World Bank in 2012 and the International Monetary Fund in 2011, two posts at the heart of their demands for more say in global economic matters.

The summit is unlikely to provide a common front to push ahead global trade talks either, even though the World Trade Organization is headed by Brazilian Roberto Azevedo. Brazil itself has increased protectionist measures under President Dilma Rousseff.

“I wouldn’t say that there will be a common outcome in that sense, but certainly there will be

discussion on WTO matters,” said Sujata Mehta, secretary for economic relations at the Indian Foreign Ministry.

India and South Africa have signaled they may backtrack on a trade facilitation agreement reached at the WTO talks in Bali in December 2013, wrote Carlos Braga and Jean-Pierre Lehmann, professors at Lausanne, Switzerland-based IMD business school.

Still, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to rock the boat at the Brazil summit, said N.R. Bhanumurthy, an economist at the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, a governmentbacked research institute in New Delhi.

“Domestic issues are dominating his agenda, especially growth and inflation,” Bhanumurthy said.

Russia expects BRICS leaders to discuss international issues, including the situation in Ukraine, and speak out against “sanction pressure,” Ushakov told reporters July 10.

IGERIA International Debt Fund (NIDF), a mutual fund listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), has announced distribution of about N44.2 million as interim dividend for its unit-holders for the current business year.

NIDF, a collective investment scheme (CIS) invests in fixed income securities of Federal and State Governments, is managed

by Afrinvest Asset Management Limited.

The fund manager stated that N44.17 million would be distributed among note-holders on the register of the NIDF by July 29, 2014 while payment would be made within two weeks of the closure.

Managing director, Afrinvest Asset Management Limited, Mr. Ola Belgore, said the interim dividend is the 32rd coupon in the life of the Fund which was launched in 1997.

According to him, since the NIDF is an open-ended fund it is estimated that a minimum of N36 per note would be paid to note holders who are in the books of the NIDF on the closure date which is July 29, 2014.

“The interim distribution is in line with the structure of the NIDF, as the fund is designed to pay distributions twice a year, as indicated in the Fund’s Trust Deed,” Belgore said.

He noted that NIDF invests in the domestic and international debt instruments of the Federal Government of Nigeria as well as those of the 36 States.

According to him, NIDF offers investors safety, capital preservation, steady returns, diversification and value, and has a consistent dividend history making it quite attractive for both individual and institutional investors such as Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), insurance companies, asset managers and gratuity funds.

Restructured as an openended fund in October 2010 at a price of N1, 700 per unit, the NIDF with a price of N1, 988.48 as of July 10, 2014 has achieved a capital appreciation of 16.96 per cent.

Afrinvest Asset Management Limited is a subsidiary of Afrinvest West Africa Limited, a wealth advisory firm involved in investment banking, securities trading, asset management and investment research with a focus on West Africa.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

56

NEWS (SHOWBIZ)

Georgina Onuoha plans health programme

W

Uti Nwachukwu to host Star The Winner Is

A

CTOR and winner of 2010 edition of Big Brother Africa reality TV show, Uti Nwachuwu, has been named host of the new TV game show, Star The Winner Is. The announcement was made by the management of Star Lager, in partnership with Talpa International B.V., creators of global singing show, The Voice.

According to the producers of the TV show, each epi-

sode will feature six acts that will go head-to-head each week and sing with everything they have for a shot at the N10million and a brand new car grand prize.

Designed to be shown on TV stations over the next three months, the show saw thousands of hopefuls audition in five cities in Nigeria for a chance to step on the big stage.

“Uti is a versatile and seasoned host and we are thrilled to be working with

him. With Uti at the helm on air introducing surprising and competitive twists, viewers are sure to be immersed and entertained,” said Tokunbo Adodo, Marketing Manager Star, Goldberg and Export.

Interestingly, the show host said: “It is a head-tohead singing competition.

And after their performances, the 101 jury members will cast their votes. The contestants have to believe in themselves.”

Flavour, Davido, others to perform at AFRIMMA

O

RGANISERS of the African Magazine Muzik Awards (AFRIMMA) have announced that a number of Africa’s finest entertainers will be performing at the music event billed to hold on Saturday, July 26, in Dallas, USA. To be hosted by popular comedian Basketmouth and sensational actress Juliet Ibrahim, some of the top stars to perform at AFRIMMA include: Khuli Chana, Fally Ipupa, Flavour, Davido, Diamond Platnumz, Toofan, 2face Idibia, Tpain and Jamaican Ragga star Demarco, among others.

The star-studded event will attract guests from various cities throughout the United States as well as guests and honorees from

over 17 African countries.

AFRIMMA is a highly anticipated award show celebrating the beauty of African music and artistry. It will also honour some of the world’s top African celebrity music acts, producers, dance groups, DJs and cultural influencers.

MDA: Artistes excite fans with new dance step

I

T was a day of excitement and fun for onlookers when popular comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, ex- Miss Black USA, current Maltina Dance All (MDA) compere, Osas Ighodaro and standup comedian Laffup, alongside other dancers, took to the dance floor to showcase new dance styles known as Rhythm of Happiness Dance (ROHD) at the Atrium of the Silverbird Galleria in Lagos.

The ROHD dance is a new easy to learn Hip-hop dance style that reflects contemporary pop culture. The new

dance style is a prelude to the popular family dance show, MDA season eight tagged The Rhythm of Happiness.

Gbenga Adeyinka and Osas Ighodalo, who are not known for their dancing skills, dazzled the audience with their displays. The video, which has already been uploaded on YouTube, has received thousands of views.

Kufre Ekanem, Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc., described the dance performance as just “a tip of the iceberg from this season of Maltina Dance All.” He added that the show “is

the foremost experiential and sponsorship platform of the Maltina brand renowned for promoting togetherness with friends and loved ones.”

The TV show, which made its debut in 2007, has remained Nigeria’s first and only family dance TV show, featuring families from various regions across the country.

Ekanem revealed that the winning family, this year, would go home with the grand prize of N10 million. The first and second runners up will also get N3 million and N1 million respectively.

According to him, “This is a considerable increase from the N6 million, N1 million and N500, 000 won last year by contestants.”

The show proper will be preceded by regional auditions, which will kick off in Port Harcourt at the Atrium Event Centre on July 18 and 19. It will later move to the National Theatre, Lagos from July 24 to 26 before berthing at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja on August 1 and 2.

The first- ever season of the show, which offers a centre stage to a wide variety of talents from different genres and musical backgrounds, is set to air from July 19.

The producer further described it “as a singing showdown, where an unusual 101 jury, consisting of music enthusiasts and specialists, votes for the best performer. Losing a duel means a contestant is out of the game.”

HEN popular Nollywood actress, Georgina Onuoha, relocated to the U.S. shortly after she got married in 2006, many of her fans thought that she might have bidden bye to acting, a profession that had given her fame.

Although her face has literally become a rarity in most Nollywood movies for some time, Onuoha, who is also a health worker in the U.S., said she had not quit acting.

As proof that the star of Ejima 1& 2, is still very much in love with acting, she revealed in a telephone interview with The Nation, that she just finished a production in the U.S. But beyond re-affirming her interest in acting, the mother of two also disclosed that she would be coming home in a couple of months to organise an awareness programme on health.

“Living in America has given me a whole new perspective about life. It is so sad that a lot of Nigerians are dying of things that should ordinarily not kill them, health-wise. So, I am doing a project at the moment that will address health issues, whereby you don’t wait until you are dying before seeing a doctor. You can empower through the social media. It will also be an avenue

By Dupe AyinlaOlasunkanmi

where you can learn about your human anatomy and physiology; learn when things are not right and when to visit your doctor and learn to ask questions.

It is not just going to the doctor to complain and you are told you have malaria and then you go home. So, we are trying to create an avenue whereby an average Nigerian can always ask questions. Aside being a mother and health worker, these are other things we are trying to put together to empower people concerning their health.

Instead of buying somebody a bag of rice, you can get a bag of beans to save life. It is a training programme to start challenging ourselves and start asking questions about our health.”

•Onuoha

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

57

NEWS

I left PDP over non-implementation of UNEP report, says Amaechi

R

IVERS State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has said he left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) because of the failure of the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration to implement the recommendations in the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report on Ogoniland.

He declared that the Federal Government lacked the political will to implement the recommendations.

The governor spoke at the thanksgiving service for a former Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Gregory Nwidam, at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church, Bane-Ogoni.

The UNEP report stated that the sustainable environmental restoration of Ogoniland would take 20 years to achieve and will need coordinated efforts of

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

government agencies at all levels.

It recommended that the Federal Government should establish an Ogoniland Environmental Restoration Authority.

The UNEP report notes that full environmental restoration of Ogoniland would be a project, which will take 30 years to complete.

Amaechi said: “After the verification and recommendations to the Federal Government, it has refused to release $1 million for the cleanup and development of the area.

“As I am talking to you today, the Federal Government is doing nothing about the UNEP report.

“One million dollars is about N160 billion, but the Federal Government has been spending billions in

other places.

“But, you need to ask yourselves what did Ogoni do to the Federal Government that it cannot release N160 billion to save your environment?

“That is the reason I left PDP for APC, because our interest is not protected in PDP. So, when they cannot give the people of Ogoni N160 billion, which is not even enough for their kids to travel why should you vote them?

“What you should do is to punish them with your votes, by voting them out next year.

When you vote, you are not fighting for me, you are fighting for yourselves, because I have served as a Speaker for eight years and also as governor for eight years, what I need from God is long life.

You need to fight for yourselves and save Rivers State.

The governor urged the people to register and iden-

tify with the APC. Amaechi said: “Let me assure you that the APC will win in Rivers State. You owe me a duty to get registered with APC. Go and register during the voter registration and get your voter cards.

“The PDP said it will bring the policemen and soldiers. Let them bring them, but you should know that they are also human beings.

On election day, I will be in front.

“There is nothing police will shoot that I have not inhaled before. There is no cell that they have not locked me up as a student leader. There is nothing new that the Federal Government has not done to me.

“What has Federal Government done for the people of Ogoni? If I have not done anything, I have built roads, primary and secondary schools, as well as health centres in Ogoniland.”

•Niger State Governor Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (middle), Director General, National Centre for Women Development, Lady Onyeka Onwenu (left) and|Nigerian Ambassador to Morocco- Senator Abdallah Wali at the Crans Montan Forum, Rabat, Morocco, where the Director General represented the First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan.

A

Court to rule on Island property suit Aug 4

N Igbosere Magistrate Court, Lagos Island, will on August 4 rule on an application for stay of execution of a ruling regarding the possession of a property on 36, Macarthy Street, Lagos.

Mr Folabi Balogun and Adetunji Conde leased the ground floor warehouse to Dynacord Nigeria Limited for 10 years from March 1, 2004 to February 31, this year.

Following a dispute due to alleged breach of lease agreement, the firm was allegedly ejected from the property.

However, the court, in a ruling delivered on November 20, last year, made a mandatory order for the restoration of the defendant (Dynacord) to the office.

The magistrate, Mrs O. I. Oguntade, also ordered the plaintiffs (Balogun and Folabi) to remove all padlocks from the office, and

PH ONLY

By Joseph Jibueze and Emmanuel Udodinma

to return all items they took away from the premises forthwith.

The court also directed the plaintiffs to show cause why they should not be committed to prison for “flagrant disregard” of the court and for interfering with proceedings “through acts of unlawful ejection of the defendant/applicant on

December 4, 2009.”

At the last proceedings, counsel for the plaintiffs, Kayode Fasetire, informed the court of an appeal against the ruling. They are also seeking to stay execution of the ruling.

The appeal, he said, is on the basis that the order is in the nature of a mandamus which is the exclusive preserve of superior courts of record, and therefore, the court lacked the juris-

diction to grant the order.

Meanwhile, a lawyer, Mr Segun Jegede, is praying to be joined in the suit because he also rented the same property in dispute.

He claimed he was not aware of the case in court.

The magistrate, however, dismissed the application for joinder.

Mrs Oguntade adjourned till August 4 to rule on all pending applications.

Woman sells baby for N20,000 in Bayelsa

W

HATEVER compelled a prostitute in Bayelsa State to sell a baby she carried for nine months has remained a puzzle to residents of Yenagoa, the state capital.

The police are investigating why the unnamed prostitute sold her new born baby girl for N20,000.

Some said the commercial sex worker, operating in the red light district on DSP

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

Alameiseigha Road, sold the day-old baby on Sunday; others said the incident occurred last week.

The baby was reportedly sold to a family in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Police spokesman Alex Akhigbe said yesterday that the matter was being handled by the Criminal Investiga-

tion Department (CID).

He said he was yet to get details of the incident, including the name of the woman.

Akhigbe added that preliminary investigation had traced the receiving family to Port Harcourt.

Akhigbe said: “Though the details of the investigation are sketchy, the special unit is on its way to recover the baby and arrest the family that bought the child.”

Lagos accuses PDP members of vandalising Gani Park

L

AGOS State yesterday accused Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members of vandalising the Gani Fawehinmi Park in Ojota, Lagos during a rally.

Commissioner for the Environment, Mr Tunji Bello expressed shock at the level of destruction.

He said the platform and base of the late human rights lawyer’s statue was damaged; the railings and green lawns were trampled on, while the solar light panels were vandalised.

“With this act of vandalisation, the PDP again demonstrated their penchant for violence,” Bello said in statement by the ministry’s spokesman Fola Adeyemi He said the party members did not only damage the park,

By Joseph Jibueze

they “inflicted great pains and discomfort to the entire users of Ikorodu Road and Ojota areas, while also denying them the right to trade and earn a living during the lock-down of the entire area.”

He wondered how a PDP-led Federal Government that makes billions from the Apapa port cannot fix the roads in the axis which have become a nightmare to users.

“The Lagos State Government is pained by the sufferings of innocent Lagosians who eke a living in this axis and are daily locked up in a traffic jam that lasts for hours after a hard day’s work.

“Is this the type of hardship they want to bring to Lagosians?” Bello asked.

Gemalto, GSMA partner on African Health initiative

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By Lucas Ajanaku

LOBAL leader in digital security, Gemalto said it has joined forces with (global System for Mobile Communication Association (GSMA1) to drive the pan-African Health Initiative (PAMI), a mobile ecosystem that aims to improve maternal and child health and nutrition in sub-Saharan Africa.

In a statement, the firm said acting as one of the first leading partners in this ambitious undertaking, Gemalto is contributing its digital security expertise to two key mHealth programmes: the United Nations Every Women Every Child Global Strategy and the Global Nutrition for Growth Compact. GSMA’s PAMI brings together stakeholders from the mobile and health industries, as well as from the public sector.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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NEWS SSS rescues Maduka’s kidnapped brother From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

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HE State Security Service (SSS) yesterday rescued Mr. Pius Maduka, the elder brother of Mr. Cosmas Maduka, the owner of Coscharis Motors, from suspected kidnappers.

The victim had paid N15million ransom, but the suspected abductors refused to release him.

They instead demanded an additional N28million ransom to release him and a woman mistakenly kidnapped as his wife.

The Nation learnt that one of the suspected kidnappers was killed during the rescue. Four suspects have been arrested.

A source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said “Operatives of the Department of State Security Service have rescued Mr. Pius Maduka, the elder brother of Coscharis Motors owner Mr. Cosmas Maduka.

“Pius, who was kidnapped nine days ago at Nnewi in Anambra State, was rescued in Orlu, Imo State.

“His abductors were said to have demanded and collected N15 million, but they refused to release him.

“They later demanded an additional N23 million ransom, saying the amount would be sufficient for the release of Pius and a woman they mistook for his wife.

“On Monday morning, the SSS operatives stormed the suspected kidnappers’ hideout, rescued Pius and killed one of the suspected abductors.

“Four of the suspected kidnappers were later arrested by the SSS operatives. Two were nabbed in Orlu and the rest were apprehended in Port Harcourt.”

Southeast Southsouth demand N2.6tr reparation From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

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ELEGATES of the Southeast and Southsouth at the National Conference demanded yesterday the payment of N2.6 trillion reparation for damages done in the zones during the civil war.

The demand was contained in the documents circulated at the conference, titled: “Amendment to the proposed National Intervention Fund: The case of the Southeast, Southsouth zones of Nigeria” and “Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Atrocities and injustices against Ndigbo.”

The documents were endorsed by the 20 Southeast and Southsouth delegates, including the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Gary Igariwey, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, Dr. Joe Nwaorgu, Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, Ms. Annkio Briggs and former Senate President Adolphus Wabara.

The delegates said their demand was meant to put a price on the death of millions of Igbo, who were killed in the civil war and on other occasions.

The Federal Government, they said, should pay N400 billion each to the five states of the Southeast as compensation to those who lost loved ones, property and those still suffering dislocation.

“The same amount should also be paid to the Delta State government for the benefit of Anioma area of the state,” the delegates said.

•Some of the rescued expectant girls and suspected ‘baby factory’ workers

Civil Defence rescues 19 expectant girls from ‘baby factory’

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HE Abia State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has raided a ‘baby factory’ at Umunkpeyi in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government and rescued 19 expectant girls.

Parading the teenagers and workers in the ‘factory’, NSCDC Commandant Andy Dateer said they received information about a home where expectant girls were kept until they were delivered of their babies, who would later be sold.

He said the name of the ‘baby factory’ is Nma Charity and

From Ugochukwu UgojiEke, Umuahia

Motherless Babies’ Home and that the owner, who is at large, brings in men, who impregnate the teenagers. He added that the girls are given peanuts.

The NSCDC boss said his men raided the place yesterday and rescued the girls and three babies, adding that four ‘social workers’ and four men were arrested.

He said he paraded the girls and the suspects to make the indigenes to be aware that such people exist in the state.

Dateer said although the raiding of a ‘baby factory’ is not within their operation, “it is part of the security work we do. I’ve informed the police, the women affairs department, the office of the governor’s wife and the governor about the development.”

He said he would hand over the girls and the suspects to the appropriate authority. “We will ensure the teenagers are taken to their homes to reunite with their families. We urge their parents to take them back.”

The NSCDC chief said one of the teenagers is in a bad condi-

tion and she has been taken to hospital.

He said the girls told him that they had not been fed for two days. “But I’ve made arrangement for them to be fed. I enjoin the government to assist us in rehabilitating the girls.”

Dateer said 15 of the teenagers are indigenes, while the rest are from neighbouring states.

The Nation learnt that this is the third time security agencies would raid the ‘baby factory’ to rescue expectant teenagers.

On each occasion, the owner escaped.

Revenue collectors, tricycle operators clash in Awka

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HREE persons were injured during a fight between suspected fake revenue collectors and members of the tricycle owners and operators in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The incident, which occurred at the weekend, took place at Ogbugbankwa on Zik Avenue in Awka.

Two of the victims, who were allegedly attacked with a machete by the revenue collectors, Chikamso Egbunonu and Ifeanyi, have been hospitalised.

The chairman of the tricycle operators in the Southeast, Ikejina Ijeokwukwe, briefing report-

•Three injured From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

ers yesterday, implored Police Commissioner Usman Gwary and the Director of the Department of State Service, Alex Okeiyi, to intervene.

He alleged that Johnson Anago carried out the attack, using the names of Jude Agumadu and Jimmy Okonkwo as his sponsors.

A source, who spoke with The Nation yesterday, said one of the receipts being paid for by the tricycle operators was issued in alliance with the Anambra State

•Chikamso on the hospital bed...yesterday.

Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA).

When our correspondent called the Managing Director of ASWAMA, Mrs. Njideka Ofoe-

du, on the phone, she confirmed that the company was in collaboration to collect what she called the N50 sanitation toll levy.

Apapa gridlock: Navy deploys 120 men to tackle insecurity

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HE Nigerian Navy (NN) said it deployed 120 personnel across eight major routes in the Apapa, Lagos economic hub to clear traffic jam because the situation posed a security risk.

It had on Thursday, launched a week-long operation code named Igbale in order to ensure a free flow of traffic, which until the force’ intervention has proved impossible.

At a situation report briefing held at the headquarters, Western Naval Command (WNC), the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Rear Admiral Sanmi Alade expressed satisfaction that their efforts yielded positive result.

Although controlling traffic was not the duty of the Navy, Alade said the force could not fold its arm since the situation was worrisome.

“For a long time, around Apapa, Mile2 to Tincan has been be-

By Precious Igbonwelundu

devilled by traffic, affecting businesses and creating security problems.

“Given the security challenge in the country, it was considered something serious and the Naval Headquarters directed that we do something urgently to clear the traffic logjam that held people for several hours.

“We contacted other stakeholders and launched operation Igbale on July 10 across various locations segmented into eight sections-Marine Bridge; Ijora-Orile Iganmu; Apapa Wharf; Liverpool; Tincan; Ibafo; Berger-Kirikiri and Mile2 general axis.

“I am glad to see that some decorum have returned to Apapa and motorists can move freely. This has been graciously attested to by the Governor of Lagos, Baba-

tunde Fashola and I want to promise that we shall continue to collaborate with other stakeholders to ensure peaceful and secure environment in Lagos,” he said.

Briefing the FOC on efforts embarked on, the Commander, NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Ovenseri Uwadiae said though the roads have been rid of logjams, naval personnel would still remain at their various locations till the end of the operation to forestall a recurrence.

Uwadiae said they were able to clear the traffic because they ensured that all vehicles (tankers and trucks) without proof of cargo collection were made to return to Lagos-Ibadan Express, while those who had businesses at the port, maintained a single lane.

Uwadiae, who had earlier told reporters that the logjam affected the Navy’s mobilisation of men and materially seriously because 90 per cent of its personnel reside in the affected areas, saw that discussions were ongoing with other stakeholders to ensure the situation is not repeated.

“We ensured that no vehicle was parked along the road and made the drivers remain in their vehicles to move same when necessary.

“There are a lot of national economic assets along the axis and with the current terror acts being experienced; it would not be safe to allow the traffic situation continue.

“Also, the situation was not helping anybody. Not business definitely, since a lot of valuable manhours are lost in the traffic leading to frustration, health hazards and low productivity.

‘Intelligence gathering foiled Owerri bomb blast’ From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

IMO State Commissioner for Information Mr. Theodore Ekechi has said government has set a standard that ensures citizens’ participation in intelligence gathering.

He added that this helped to foil the recent attempt by suspected Boko Haram insurgents to bomb a church in Owerri.

The commissioner spoke in Abuja where he was honoured by the Ngor Okpala community in Abuja, under the aegis of Obiri Ngor Okpala.

He said: “Before 2011, Imo State was notorious for armed robbery, kidnapping and other crimes. But it is on record that between 2012 and 2014, the commissioners of police that had come to Imo State, had along with the governor, received one international award or the other, for excellence in security, in securing life and property.

That is a matter of fact.

“Even if I’m not going to speak for the governor, let me talk about the commissioners of police. There is nothing suggesting that the police commissioners sent to us in recent time are more qualified than those there before 2011.

There is no evidence to show that they were more educated than those there before, or they had more training.

“I think what made it possible is the system that had been put in place, and this is what we have been telling the whole world and Nigerians in particular.”

Prayer summit A PRAYER summit is holding at the Assemblies of God Church (Land of God), Ifako, Ijaiye, Lagos.

The event, which began yesterday, will end on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at the church auditorium at 2, Olabode Close, Alex Kehinde Taylor Estate, near Somori Secondary School, College Road, Ifako-Ijaiye, Lagos.

The host pastor, Rev. C. Ali, said the theme of the summit is: “Possessing the gate of your enemies”, adding that there would be salvation, deliverance, healing, restoration and miracles. The guest speaker is Rev. Ebele Okechukwu.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

59

NEWS

Conference ends abruptly Continued from page 4

bilitation of areas ravaged by insurgency and internal conflicts as well as solid minerals development requires some technical details and considerations.

“Conference, therefore, recommends that government should set up a Technical Committee to determine appropriate percentage on the three key issues and advise government accordingly.”

Tension was high as Justice Kutigi hurriedly put the decisions to voice vote.

What followed was a thunderous “aye”.

Justice Kutigi ruled that the decisions and others had been duly adopted.

Members of the 50-man committee came under fire yesterday for recommending that the Federal government should set up a technical committee on the most suitable derivation formula for the country.

Some delegates reacted angrily following the decision of the conference to stand down recommendation on derivation principle.

The Conference, on the recommendation of the 50-man committee, urged the Federal Government to set up a technical committee to advise it on the most appropriate percentage for derivation, solid mineral development and insurgency intervention fund.

According to the protesting delegates, the decision amounted to the Conference shirking its responsibility and passing the buck to the President.

Sola Ebiseni, a delegate from Ondo State on the platform of Local government system, said: “As far as I am concerned, there was no decision taken today.

What we did today was simply to abdicate our responsibility by throwing the issue back at Mr Preident, who sent us here to assist in proffering solutions to some of our national challenges.

“What we fully failed to appreciate about what a National Conference is all about is that it is an extra-constitutional assembly of the people to critically examine

all the issue that were pushed to us in a federation like ours where we have to constantly review the terms of our national engagement as a country.

“To now come at the tail end, while considering critical issues and say we couldn’t take a decision and push it back to the President, to me, is a crafty way of adopting the status quo and refusing to talk about it.

“If a technical committee must be set up, after all plenary has been adjourned till 4th of next month, I would have expected the Chairman to set it up, made up of the members of the conference itself.

“Without sounding immodest, I do not see anywhere in Nigeria where people with more technical know-how are assembled than those at this conference.

In Ebiseni’s view, “The credibility of the conference won’t be affected because we have succeeded in making far-reaching and lasting decisions that, if eventually implemented would make the country better in the long run”.

Mohammed Kumaila, a delegate from Borno and a member of the 50-man committee, said recommending certain percentages to be taxed on the Federation without data and facts on revenue accruable to the government was responsible for the decision to allow government to shoulder the responsibility.

Chief Olu Falae, leader of the Southwest delegation and a member of the Elders’ Committee, said the final decision was the most reasonable thing for the Conference to do.

Kumaila is one of the four leaders who met with Conference Deputy Chairman, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi shortly before the final decision was read by the Chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi.

Kumaila said: “What informed the decision was that we realised that it would be foolhardy to create percentages on the Federation Account without necessarily evaluating its impact on the existing obligation of government.

“This is because we are creating additional five per cent deri-

Jonathan: girls ’ll be rescued alive Continued from page 4

•Prof. Akinyemi

vation for the Southsouth, another five per cent for minerals development, another five percent for reconstruction of insurgency affected areas.

“Meanwhile, apart from this 15 per cent, if you remember we have created some forms of percentages in other sectors but the cumulative effect of all this on the Federation account has to be looked at critically.

“This is because as it is now, all the states and local governments, including the Federal Government, have existing obligations but without looking critically at these obligations and their implications, going on to create these percentages is very dangerous.

“To go ahead and do this would only make us a laughing stock by the the time experts sits down to look at what we have created.”

“What we are saying is that it is the work of a Technical committee, we don’t have the time or the technical expertise at this point to be able as a conference to look at this in detail and be able to make informed recommendation that would be sustainable.”

Falae, who corroborated Kumalia’s stand, said it was the inability of the 50-man committee to arrive at a consensus on the issues that necessitated the idea of the Technical Committee.

crimination against girls and women, and have also undertaken many affirmative actions on their behalf.”

The President said that the Federal Government was also proactively evolving and implementing policies and measures that will benefit the abducted Chibok girls when they are safely rescued, as well as others that have been adversely affected by the Boko Haram insurgency.

These, President Jonathan said, includ the establishment of a Victims’ Support Fund, the Safe Schools Initiative and the Presidential Initiative for the North East.”

He said he would inaugurate tomorrow a National Committee to oversee fundraising for the Victims’ Support Fund, which will also cater for families of security men and women who have died in the war against terrorism.

Malala, who was shot by Taliban three years ago for campaigning for girls’ education, speaking at a news conference after her meeting with the President, said Jonathan assured her that everything was being done to ensure the safe release of the girls.

According to her, the annual budgetary allocation to education in Nigeria is too meager.

The Director of Communication of Malala Foundation, Eason Jordan, said Jonathan also promised to ensure scholarship for all the girls. Malala pledged to support the scholarship with $200,000.

Malala said: “I am here in Nigeria on my 17th birthday for a price which is to see that every child goes to school. This year, my objective is to speak up for my Nigerian sisters, about 200 of them who are under the abduction of Boko Haram and I met the President, Goodluck Jonathan, for this purpose.

“I convey the voice of my sisters who are out of school or who are still under the abduction of Boko Haram. And for those girls who escaped from the abduction

but still do not have education.

And in the meeting, I highlighted the same issues which the girls and their parents told me in the past two days.

“The parents said they really want to meet with the President to share their stories with him.

And I asked the President that if he wants to meet with the parents of the girls, the President assured me that he would meet with them.”

She went on: “I spoke to the President about the girls who complained that they cannot go to school despite the fact that they want to become doctors, engineers and teachers. But the government is not providing them any facility. They also need health facility, security, and the government is not doing anything.

“These are the issues I presented to the President today. And the President fortunately, promised me that he will do something for these girls and he promised me that the girls under the abduction of Boko Haram will be released as soon as possible.

“This is the promise the President made and I am hopeful that his promise will come through and we will soon see those girls return. He has made promises, but in politics, nothing is clear.

But the President said these girls are his daughters and he is pained by their suffering and that he has his own daughters and he can feel what they are feeling.”

“The President has expressed his solidarity with those girls and his sadness. He has assured that these girls will come back home safely. He has several options but that he will choose the best to ensure the girls are released safely.”

“Yesterday I also met with the parents of these girls who are still under the abduction of Boko Haram and they were crying and hopeless.

“But still, they have this hope that there is still someone who can help them. They asked me if there is any chance for them to meet the President because at this time, they need the President’s support, so I asked the President

if it is possible for him to go and see them to encourage them and the President did promise me that he will meet the parents of these girls.”

Continuing, she said: “I am hopeful that these two promises - the return of the girls from Boko Haram and meeting with their parents - will be fulfilled and we will see it soon. Even though the promises have been made, it does not mean I am going to stop talking. I will be counting days and I will be looking when those girls are going to be returned home. I can’t stop this campaign until I see those girls return back to their families and continue the agitation.

“This is the position of the Malala foundation. My father and I and the entire family want to speak out for those 10.5 million children who are out of school. They have no access to education because of many problems. And I am hopeful that the international community will take serious action because if we think this country is in Africa and is not going to affect other countries, we are really wrong.”

According to her, if the 10.5 million children are left to be illiterates, there is a risk that they will become terrorists; they could be violated and deprived of their basic human rights.

Minister of State for Education Nyesom Wike, during his meeting with Malala, said: “From present efforts on ground, we hope to reduce the number of children who are out of school by at least two million pupils by the beginning of the 2015 academic session, by September next year.

This is a pledge we make and we are committed to the realization of this goal”.

House to consider panel’s report Continued from page 4

ability and it is left for God to judge us rightly or wrongly,” Kaigama said.

He said the members appreciated the rare privilege given to them to serve on the panel.

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

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ello Mr Edochie. I am in a bit of a dilemma and I feel you may be able to advise me. Last weekend, I was at a friend’s birthday party. We drank a lot and I woke up the next morning with a woman beside me that looked like my wife but wasn’t my wife. She is my wife’s twin sister and I had sex with her. I am going crazy here because I don’t know why my sister in law didn’t try to stop it especially as she knew that I was drunk. Should I tell my wife? The news will really kill her – James James people do a lot of strange things when they are drunk, so a part of me believes your story. But not everybody will believe you, especially your wife. It is also true that identical twins have been known to sometimes have sex with their sibling’s lover. So this makes your story a bit more believable. There are two choices here that you are faced with and none of them are perfect. You can make a moral decision and tell your wife or you can make a common sense decision and be quiet about it especially since it was an incident that took place under the influence of alcohol. They say the truth shall set you free. Unfortunately, telling your wife the truth can cost you your marriage so it might be best to say nothing and continue with your life. It is also best for you to totally avoid alcohol from now onwards. I can assure you that if you had been involved in a drunk driving accident instead and killed somebody, nobody will be feeling sorry for you – Uche The Exploding Thunder you recommended for my weak erection has me a lot and it kept working even the following day. Please how often should I be taking it?

Peter Peter take it every two to three days. Exploding Thunder is a 72 hour formula, meaning that one capsule is capable of working for up to three days – Uche I experience vaginal dryness and sometimes I fail to get aroused even during intercourse. What type of vagina tightener do I need? Maybel

Maybel you don’t need a vagina tightener. What you need is an arousal lubricant and I have a good one for you. Ask for the 69 Nipple and Clit Arousal Gel. It is a wonderful and flavored gel for women that lubricates against vaginal dryness and also awakens the sense through nipple and clitoral stimulation– Uche I hear that there is a way to keep my erection strong even after ejaculation. Please I need to know how. It takes me too long to get a second erection after climaxing - George Yes it is true. You can achieve that through the use of a Cockring. A Cockring has the unique ability of retaining blood within an engorged penis in order for a man to maintain his erection for up to twenty additional minutes, after ejaculation – Uche What drugs do I need for maximum sperm count (quality and quantity)? Also what do I need for penis enlargement that will be permanent? - David To boost sperm quality, increase semen quantity and enlarge the penis, you will need three different supplements. My advice is to take two supplements and a sex toy for enlargement. So for increase in sperm quality, ask for Fertil Aid or Repro AidSupplement. For increase in semen quantity, get Max Loador Explosion Supplement. And for your penis enlargement, get the Machismo Penis Enlargement Pump – Uche I used the Prolonging Creamfor premature ejaculation and liked it. Can you still get it for me? Chima Prolonging Cream is available. Men fighting premature ejaculation like it a lot. Call the numbers below to get it – 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 can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

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FOREIGN NEWS Over 500 killed by Ebola in West Africa

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EEP in the forests of southern Guinea, the first victims fell ill with high fevers. People assumed it was the perennial killer malaria and had no reason to fear touching the bodies, as is the custom in traditional funerals.

Some desperate relatives brought their loved ones to the distant capital in search of better medical care, unknowingly spreading what ultimately was discovered to be Ebola, one of the world’s most deadly diseases.

Ebola, a hemorrhagic fever that can cause its victims to bleed from the ears and nose, had never before been seen in this part of West Africa where medical clinics are few and far between. The disease has turned up in at least two other countries — Liberia and Sierra Leone — and 539 deaths have been attributed to the outbreak that is now the largest on record.

The key to halting Ebola is isolating the sick, but fear and panic have sent some patients into hiding, complicating efforts to stop its spread. Ebola PUBLIC NOTICE NWABUNIKE I, formerly known and addressed as Nwabunike Chizoba Vivian, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ekpearu Chizoba Vivian. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

LAWAL I, formerly known and addressed Miss Ogunfunke Titilope Ogunsanwo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ogunfunke Titilope Lawal. All former documents remain valid. Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) and General public, please note.

has reached the capitals of all three countries, and the World Health Organization reported 44 new cases including 21 deaths on Friday.

“There are no cases from outside Africa to date. The threat of it spreading though is very much there,” said Dr. Unni Krishnan, head of disaster preparedness and response for the aid group.

Preachers are calling for divine intervention, and panicked residents in remote areas have on multiple occasions attacked the very health workers sent to help them. In one town in Sierra Leone, residents partially burned down a treatment center over fears that the drugs given to victims were actually causing the disease.

Guinea first notified WHO about the emergence of Ebola in March and soon after cases were reported in neighboring Liberia. Two months later there were hopes that the outbreak was waning, but then people began falling ill in Sierra Leone.

Doctors Without Borders says it fears the number of patients now being treated in Sierra Leone could be “just the tip of the iceberg.” Nearly 40 were reported in a single village in the country’s east.There is no cure and no vaccine for Ebola, and those who have survived managed to do so only by receiving rehydration and other supportive treatment. Ebola’s high fatality rate means many of those brought to health clinics have been merely kept as comfortable as possible in quarantine as they await death.

PUBLIC NOTICE KIRIKIRI TOWN DEPOT OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

The general public is hereby notified that the named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Corporate and Allied Matters Acts 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: OTUNBA TUNJI DUROSINMI ETTI GBEMISOLA HASSAN ADEDAMOLA HON. NNAMDI EZEANI ANTHONY OBINNA ONYEAMA MRS. VICTORIA A. SAMSON AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1) To unite in the pursuance of the welfare of members especially in the area of the depot operations.

2) To embark on viable projects beneficial to members especially in minimizing risk to the operational environment.

3) To promote corporate social responsibility by assisting in the provision of amenities such as good roads, firefighting station and equipment, water hydrants and scholarship to the indigent students of the society.

4) To co-operate with the community, government and its agencies in achieving the above and also in ensuring security of life and properties in the community where we operate.

5) To promote peace and harmony through advocacy practices.

6) To ensure compliances with the laws and regulations for safety and best practices.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja.

Within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: Chief E.A. Otokhina, (Solicitor).

PUBLIC NOTICE KIRIKIRI TOWN STAKE HOLDERS’ ASSOCIATION

The general public is hereby notified that the named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Corporate and Allied Matters Acts 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: CHIEF WAIDI SUNMONU OTUNBA TUNJI DUROSINMI ETTI MR. J.M. OMOGBEMI ANTHONY OBINNA ONYEAMA HON. NNAMDI EZEANI GBEMISOLA AJIBOLA KABIRU MRS. VICTORIA A. SAMSON AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: (1) To embark on viable community development projects in Kirikiri town Lagos state such as good roads, drainage, provision of portable water, electricity power projects, educational projects, sporting facilities and also ensuring good environmental order and practice.

(2) To achieve the above projects through self- help and co-operation with relevant government and their agencies. (3) To cooperate with government and security agencies in ensuring security of lives and properties in the Kirikiri town. (4) To promote peace and harmony among residents, commercial concerns and government agencies in the area.

5) To work toward youths empowerment through education, skill acquisition and development.

6) To assist deserving and needy members through welfare projects and scholarship.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja.

Within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: Chief E.A. Otokhina, (Solicitor).

PUBLIC NOTICE! FRIENDLY AMBASSADORS CLUB

This is to inform the general public that the above named club situates in Lagos has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR. JOHN CHIKWENDU AMAH 2. MR. REMIGUS OKEKE. 3. MR. FULBRIGHT ENYINNYAH AJAH. sententious 4. MR. CALLISTUS IKE. 5. MR. SOLOMON NMEZI 6. MR. ELISUS OGOCHUKWU EZEKWEM. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE CLUB ARE: (A) To foster and promote the coming together of Great Friends and extend friendship within the areas of operation of the club.

(B) To cater for the welfare of members of the club.

(C) To promote peace, love, unity, progress and understanding amongst the members and the society.

(D) To promote and encourage good relationship amongst members and other similar bodies.

(E) To assist members in need and extend assistance to the less privileged when the need arises according to the financial ability of the club.

(F) To work for social progress and development of the club and the society.

(G) To inculcate discipline and obedience to the law and order amongst its members and within its environment of operation Any objective to this registration should be addressed to the Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: High Chief Chuks Nwolisa Chuks Nwolisa & Co. (08033030387 & 07083711160)

We downed Hamas drone, says Israel

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HE Israeli military said it downed a drone on Monday along the country's southern coastline, the first time it encountered an unmanned aircraft since the campaign against Gaza Strip militants began last week.

The drone was launched from Gaza and was shot down near the southern city of Ashdod, the military said.

Hamas claimed it launched several drones Monday at Israel, without immediately providing details on their missions.

Since the latest bout of fighting began last Tuesday, mili-

tants have fired nearly 1,000 rockets at Israel, causing some injuries and damage to property, but no fatalities among Israelis. By contrast, 172 Palestinians have died as a result of Israel's air attacks.

But the use of drones with an offensive capacity could potentially inflict significant casualties - something the rockets from Gaza have failed to do, largely because of the success of the military's 'Iron Dome' air defense system in shooting them down.

Israel began airstrikes Tuesday against militants in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip in what it says was a response

to heavy rocket fire out of the densely populated territory.

The military says it has launched more than 1,300 airstrikes since then, while Palestinian militants have launched nearly 1,000 rockets at Israel.

The military said yesterday's drone was launched from Gaza and was shot down in mid-flight by a Patriot surface-to-air missile in mid-flight near Ashdod.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that the current Israeli operation could last for "a long time" and that the military was prepared "for all possibilities."

That includes a wide-ranging Gaza ground operation, which would likely cause heavy casualties in the coastal strip.

But Netanyahu is coming under increasing international pressure to end the operation soon. On Sunday, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for an immediate cease-fire while U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry voiced American "readiness" to help restore calm. Egypt, a key mediator between Israel and Hamas, continued to work behind the scenes to stop the conflict.

African government under the apartheid regime including 1966’s The Late Bourgeois World and 1979’s Burger’s Daughter.

Her last novel, No Time Like the Present, published in 2012, follows veterans of the battle against apartheid as they deal with the issues facing modern South Africa.

The author featured on the 1981 BBC series Writers And Places, narrated by authors about places which are important in their work and lives.

Gordimer’s film focussed on Johannesburg In her later years, Gordimer became a vocal campaigner in the HIV/Aids movement, lobbying and fund-raising on behalf of the

Treatment Action Campaign, a group pushing for the South African government to provide free, life-saving drugs to sufferers.

She was also critical of South African President Jacob Zuma, expressing her opposition to a proposed law which would limit the publication of information deemed sensitive by the government.

“The reintroduction of censorship is unthinkable when you think how people suffered to get rid of censorship in all its forms,” she said in an interview last month.

Gordimer’s family said a private memorial service would be announced at a later date. She is survived by three children.

Nadine Gordimer, South African author, dies at 90 •Won Nobel Prize in 1991

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OUTH African Nobel Prize-winning author Nadine Gordimer has died in Johannesburg aged 90.The writer, who was one of the literary world’s most powerful voices against apartheid - died at her home after a short illness, her family said.

She wrote more than 30 books, including the novels My Son’s Story, Burger’s Daughter and July’s People.

She jointly won 1974’s Booker Prize for The Conservationist and was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1991.

The Nobel committee said at the time it was honouring Gordimer for her “magnificent epic writing” which had been “of very great benefit to humanity”.

Writing from an early age, the author published her first story Come Again Tomorrow - in a Johannesburg magazine at just 15.

Her works comprised both novels and short stories where the consequences of apartheid, exile and alienation were the major themes.Nadine Gordimer and Nelson Mandela were close friends Gordimer’s family said she

•Gordimer with Mandela

“cared most deeply about South Africa, its culture, its people, and its ongoing struggle to realise its new democracy”.

Committed to fighting apartheid, the author was a leading member of the African National Congress and fought for the release of Nelson Mandela. They went on to become firm friends.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation paid tribute to Gordimer, saying it was “deeply saddened at the loss of South Africa’s grande dame of literature”.

“We have lost a great writer, a patriot and strong voice for equality and democracy in the world,” it added.

A number of Gordimer’s books were banned by the South

Ukraine: Military plane shot down as fighting intensifies

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UKRAINIAN military transport plane was shot down yesterday along the country’s eastern border with Russia, the defence minister said.

Rebels in conflict-wracked eastern Ukraine immediately claimed responsibility for downing the Antonov-26 but Ukrainian Defense Minister Valeriy Heletey said the rocket may have been fired from Russia.

Heletey said the plane was flying at an altitude of 6,500 meters (21,300 feet), which he said was too high to be reached with the weapons used by the separatists fighting government troops.

Ukrainian authorities say plane may have been carrying around 20 people but there was no immediate word on casualties.

Fighting intensified yesterday around Luhansk as government forces stepped up efforts to disrupt rebel lines and reclaim more territory from the faltering insurgency. One resident said panic was gripping the city.

Despite reports of military successes, however, Ukraine’s president announced he has more evidence that Russia has directly supported a separatist insurgency against his government that is dragging into its fourth month.

The Defense Ministry said yesterday that government troops had retaken several villages

around the rebel-controlled city of Luhansk and had reopened a corridor to its civilian airport.

Rebels, however, insisted their fighting capabilities remain strong.

The leader of the military wing of the insurgency, Igor Girkin, also known by his nom de guerre Strelkov, had over the weekend predicted a bitter fight for Luhansk, a city of 400,000, and estimated that Ukrainian forces had deployed up to 70 tanks in the offensive. Moscow is considering targeted strikes against Ukraine after a shell reportedly crossed the border and killed a Russian civilian, the Kommersant daily reported Monday, citing a source close to the Kremlin.

Migrants to pay more for NHS in UK

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ATIENTS from outside the EU are to be charged 150% of the cost of treatment in the NHS in a fresh crackdown on so-called “health tourism”.

The move is designed to incentivise NHS Trusts in England to recover the cost of operations from migrants.

But only a fraction of the £460m in chargeable procedures performed every year is currently recovered.

Most migrants and foreign visitors can currently get free NHS care immediately or soon after arrival in the UK but they are expected to repay the cost of most procedures afterwards.

The charges are based on the standard tariff for a range of pro-

cedures, ranging from about £1,860 for cataract surgery to about £8,570 for a hip replacement.

From next year, trusts will be able to charge 150% of the normal cost of treatment for nonEU patients. Under these plans, non-EU patients receiving a £100 procedure could get a bill of up to £150.

Temporary migrants from outside Europe who are in the UK for longer than six months will have to pay a new surcharge when they submit an application for leave to enter or remain in the UK. Those hospitals failing to bill foreign patients could also face fines.

Mr Hunt said the principle that

the NHS was free at the point of delivery for residents would not be “undermined”.

But he said treating non-UK citizens cost the NHS an estimated £2bn a year and the plans could save the health service £500m a year by 2018. . From next year, the government will pay trusts 125% of the cost of treatment for EU patients, up from 100% at the moment to encourage hospitals to submit more relevant data.

The government is also trying to make it easier for hospitals to identify foreign patients while not burdening staff with extra paperwork.

As part of simplifying the registration process, trials are due to start in some A&E depart-

•Cameron

ments this summer to explore how details can be taken from patients with an European Health Insurance card when they register.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

61

NEWS

RAMADAN KAREEM

Ramadan 18, 1435AH

•Senator Solomon (left); Hon Ikuforiji and Hon Alawiye-King at the event

Our democracy in danger, says don

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SENIOR lecturer at the University of Ibadan, Dr Abdul Hafiz Oladosu, has lamented the degradation of the nation’s political system.

The don said the economic crisis crippling every sector of the country is affecting the psyche of the masses.

He attributed poor leadership to the downturn necessitated by the nation’s the socio-political quagmire.

Dr Oladosu spoke during the 10th Ramadan lecture of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Muslim community titled, “The Islamic concept of democracy and the political climate in Nigeria”.

The renowned scholar of Arabic and Islamic studies expressed sadness over the change of the definition of democracy from the government of the people, by the people and for the people to the government of the few, by the few and for the few.

According to him, the last Ekiti governorship election was a perfect example of a state of total shift from dem-

By Fatimah Abdul

ocratic system of government to autocratic system of government.

Masses, he said, are now being robbed of their democratic rights to elect credible candidate, instead voted for candidate with stomach infrastructure programme.

“If that election is conducted nine times, you will not be surprised that the claimed winner will still be the one that will emerge. Wherever politics is considered as patronage, that nation will continue to suffer economic downturn,’’ he said.

Oladosu said Islam allows practice of democracy with fear of God. He said: ‘’Countries like United States, Malaysia and South Africa have thrive immensely in their political system, which has in turn brought about development. The unemployment rate in America before Barrack Obama became the president has reduced. In Cairo, for the number of years I spent there,

their light never fluctuates for once. The electricity was stable. In Malaysia, their roads are good. Here in Nigeria, government have failed to provide essential amenities such as good roads, electricity, health and shelter for the people. If the democratic political system we claimed to be practising here is not checked, our economy will be stagnant.”

Missioner of Ansar-udDeen Society of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter, Shaykh Zakariyah Muhammad Thanni, said Islam is a religion that encompasses system of governance.

Shaykh Muhammad Thanni said people should be allowed to freely choose the person they want without being coerced through monetary and materials gifts.

Democracy, he said, should be government of the people, by the people and for the people and not be government of the rich, by the rich and for the rich.

•First Bank of Nig Plc’s retired Senior Manager and National Naibatul Amirah of The Criterion; Alhaja Fatimat Oyefeso; wife of Mosan-Okunola LCDA chairman, Mrs. Oyedoyin Mafe; Alhaja Hajarat Abimbola-Jinadu and Mrs Rebecca Onasanya during Ramadan lecture in Lagos.

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ERMANENT Secretary in the Ministry of Justice/Solicitor General of Lagos State Alhaji Lawal Pedro has urged politicians to look for people with leadership acumen to sponsor for the coming elections for the good of the country.

Alhaji Pedro, the president of the Anwar-ul-Islam College Agege Old Students’ Association (ACAOSA), spoke at the maiden annual Ramadan lecture of ACAOSA in Lagos.

He said politicians should be magnanimous enough to look for the best hands to administer the state, saying that is the only way to guarantee meaningful development.

“Political parties should look for credible people with leadership quality to sponsor and not the moneybags.

It is only through this that the country will have development,” he said.

The Solicitor General admitted that leadership in Nigeria is facing serious challenges, but advised the peo-

Lagos speaker, Solomon canvass peaceful co-existence

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HE Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Thabith Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has called on Nigerians to always be peaceful with their fellow beings, irrespective of ethnic group, religion and profession.

Ikuforiji said Nigerians must remain united despite provocation.

He spoke at the 24th edition of the NTA/MKO Abiola Ramadan lecture on NTA premises, Tejuoso, Lagos.

Ikuforiji said Nigeria has come a long way, saying the country needs to consolidate its existence by looking forward.

“Our population is more in this country. If there is trouble in Nigeria that means the Muslims are facing more trouble. With that, let us maintain peace among ourselves. Moreso, let the lessons of Ramadan be incorporated into our daily lives even after Ramadan,” he said.

Chairman at the occasion Senator Ganiyu Solomon enjoined everyone to im-

By Fatimah Abdul

bibe lessons of Ramadan and allow its teachings remain with them.

National President of Zumratul Islamiyah Islamic Society of Nigeria Prince Tajudeen Olusi called on youths to be responsible ‘’Since the youths will be the leaders of tomorrow, who will carry on the Islamic activities after the demise of the old, I am happy you are all here to listen to the word of God. It shows that you will be responsible,” he said.

Former Lagos State Commissioner for Education,

T

Alhaja Sekinat Yusuf enjoined mothers to train their children and take care of them.

According to her, “the security challenge facing this country is dreadful. The children are our future, lets train them towards the path of Allah so that they can be useful to Islam and the society,” Alhaja Yusuf said.

Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Education, Wahab Alawiye-King enjoined Muslims to be their brothers’ keepers.

One of the guest speakers, the National Missioner of

Aenur Rahman International, Sheikh Musliudeen Kalejaiye, who spoke on the golden rules of success, said success in Islam is an act that would make one meet the pleasure of Allah and to do things that will be of benefit to humanity.

A successful man, he said, does not live for himself but for the humanity.

“Nelson Mandela of South Africa’s success is worth to be emulated. He struggled for humanity and liberated his people from the shackles of colonisation which made him revered and celebrated after his death,” Sheikh Kalejaiye said.

Family ties key in Islam, says cleric

HE Chief Imam of Daaru' Naim (DN), Shaykh Imran AbdulMojeed Eleha, has enjoined Muslims to strengthen the ties of kinship for the sake of Allah.

In his Ramadan lecture, Eleha emphasised the duties of a child, particularly to his parents.

"A Muslim should not see visiting relatives as a fine that he or she must pay, rather, a means of seeking Allah's mercy. Allah enjoins us to show kindness to our relatives.

Allah abhors Muslims to nurse hatred in their hearts. Muslims must know that when-

By Basirat Braimah

ever they suffer any affliction, it is a test of their faith in Allah," he said.

He urged Muslims to eschew stinginess, abusive actions and backbite, as each of these may cut the tie of kinship.

"Being stingy towards relatives when you are in the position to help can cut the tie of kinship. Some people are abusive in their nature; they rain abusive words even on their relatives. Allah encourages Muslims to speak well or keep quiet," he said.

‘Politicians should sponsor credible leaders’

By Amidu Arije

ple not to condemn their leaders.

“It is not easy to govern, but easier for people to criticise and condemn those at the helms of affairs, give them the mantle, let them come and experience the same thing that is when they will know it is not easy to govern. But at the same time, there is different between politics and leader-

ship,” he said.

The guest speaker, Alhaji Shakirudeen AbdulGafar, who spoke on “Leadership, Governance and Security: Islamic Perspective” said to have good leaders in the country, there must be justice, and equality.

Abdulgafar said leadership must be transparent and just.

He cited public accountability as a necessary tool for leaders to succeed.

RAMADAN GUIDE WITH FEMI ABBAS e-mail: femabbas@yahoo.com Tel: 08122697498

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Functions of Mosque

OSQUE in Islam has both temporal and spiritual functions none of which should be taken for granted. The word Mosque is the corrupt English pronunciation of ‘MASJID’ (pronounced ‘Masgid’ in Egyptian dialect) which means a place of prostration.

In Islam, mosque is not meant for SALAT alone. It serves many other purposes each of which has a fundamental significance. For instance the very first mosque established by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in Medina was a multipurpose one. That mosque named the ‘Mosque of Qubah’ did not serve as a place of worship alone, it also served as a school, a library, a clinic, a court and even a parliament for the Muslim community. And, ever since, the Mosque has continued to serve all those purposes throughout the Islamic world.

That was why the very first University ever established in the world, the University of Cordoba in Spain , started as a Mosque. And, it will be recalled that even the three oldest Universities in the world today: Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt; Qarawiyyin University in Fez, Morocco and Zaytuniyyah University in Tunis, Tunisia all started as Mosques.

Using the above yardstick to judge what the Mosque is in our society as against what it ought to be, one will sincerely conclude that our Mosques are grossly underutilized.

Hardly can we find in our society today, a Mosque that is used as a court, a library, a parliament and a hospital. Whereas Islam is a dynamic religion and the Mosque is supposed to be a symbol of that dynamism, this is rarely considered when it comes to establishing Mosques in our society.

Today, we need Mosques in our societies more than ever before. We need Mosques for training and good orientation for our children. In fact, we need Mosques as a backup for homes in reforming our society.

That is why we must provide in every Mosque those amenities mentioned above if only to give our children the best education they deserve, as our own little way of making our society a worthy place to live in.

In our Mosques, we need Computer training Centres; tutorial classes for our Imams and Muadhdhins as well as to coach our secondary school boys and girls; good libraries for reading and research; modest clinics as well as arbitration courts where civil and matrimonial conflicts can be settled without any recourse to the Western Courts where Qur’an and Sunnah play no role in adjudication.

For Islam to continue to play its dynamic role as originally designed, enabling environments must be created for our Mosques so that so that Muslims can occupy befitting positions in the society.

62

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

THE NATION TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014

63

TODAY IN THE NATION

TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.9

NO. 2,908

‘For every allegation against Nyako and Al-Makura, President Goodluck Jonathan is equally guilty at the national level. Beyond the allegations of gross misconduct and misappropriation of funds,...’

WAHEED ODUSILE

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

I

ALWAYS suspected that there was much more to the terror that has been convulsing Nigeria in the past four years than the facile rationalisation that all the analysts, domestic and foreign, have brought to the matter.

How, I have been musing: How can the desire of an extremist sect to Islamise Nigeria, the marginalisation of adherents and sympathisers of that sect, the corrosive poverty in Nigeria’s Northeast and the historic indifference of the authorities to it, plus Nigeria’s military contribution to the international effort to crush the revolt of the Touaregs in Mali – how can these factors, mere allegations at best, have led to the depredations and the devastation that have now become the fearsome signature of Boko Haram?

Is this line of reasoning not the product of the kind that led some commentators who were so caught up in the foam of events that they could not see the decisive element in the recent Ekiti governorship election – the stomach infrastructure factor that lay just beneath the surface in several precincts and was literally screaming at them in the others?

The whole thing just doesn’t add up. An explanation that can stand the most rigorous analysis will have to be sought. And it would most likely come from the nation’s most accomplished social scientists, I concluded with resignation.

Little did I know that our own Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, whom no one has ever accused of psittacism, has not only been seeking but has actually found such an explanation.

In the finest tradition of scholarship, his thesis is at once testable, parsimonious and heuristic. It is engaging and elegant, and it has the great merit of deriving from longitudinal perspective, as opposed to the snapshot approach that is the standard fare of much social research.

Best of all, it explains the relationship among the component variables, it is predictive, and it serves as a reliable guide to action. In fact, I am almost prepared to say that it is the stuff of a genius.

Stated simply, Labaran’s thesis, postulated at an interview in Lagos the other day, is that there is a direct correlation behind the series of terrorist attacks in the country and the various landmarks recorded by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration.

Whenever the Jonathan administration has had cause to celebrate an achievement – which happens all too frequently, I might add — bombs explode to distract Nigerians and portray the government in bad light, the highly cerebral minister was reported to have said.

This is no fanciful thesis. The empirical evidence Maku adduces is overwhelming

RIPPLES DON’T SELL YOUR VOTESOlunloyo advises Osun Residents

SHINE YOUR EYES...A bag of RICE won’t last 4 YEARS.

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net

When success breeds terror

‘

Labaran’s thesis, postulated at an interview in Lagos the other day, is that there is a direct correlation behind the series of terrorist attacks in the country and the various landmarks recorded by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration •Maku

and irrefutable. Hear him: “Immediately we rebased our economy and it was now confirmed that Nigeria was the largest economy in Africa, there were bombs at Chibok. Immediately they learnt we were going to hold the World Economic Forum, there were bombs in Abuja and its environs to make sure Nigeria does not get the economic benefits of hosting the World Economic Forum and discourage the world from coming here and to make the attack the centre point of international and local media. We also noticed that immediately after Ekiti, the bombs started raining again.”

I must here enter a word of caution to those who are ever so quick to jump to conclusions – usually the wrong conclusions. Maku’s thesis implies no causality. It posits no causeand-effect relationship between President Jonathan’s achievements, coruscating as they are, and the barbarous exploits of Boko Haram and its confederates in murder. It

’

merely establishes a direct correlation between them, the exact magnitude of which my sources say he is planning to reveal to the World Press next week.

From the thesis, it follows that the frequency of terrorist strikes in Nigeria varies directly as the accomplishments of the Jonathan administration in transforming Nigeria. It may even be the case that the volume and intensity of terrorist strikes on Nigerian soil also correlate directly with the magnitude of the central government’s accomplishments, but that is an investigation for another day.

For now, it is sufficient to know that each time the Jonathan administration chalks up another glittering achievement, another terrorist strike can reasonably be expected.

The policy implications of this seminal finding should not be lost on the Jonathan administration, the security services and the public.

HARDBALL

I

T is no news that there are plaintive cries from Chibok.

Besides losing not fewer than 200 young school girls to Boko Haram, Chibok has also been the butt of other terrorist violence: mass slaughter in churches, kidnap of wives when husbands had gone in search of daily bread, and general and regular arson and plunder, at the whims and caprices of Boko Haram — as if that community is in some pre-historic territory and not in 21st century Nigeria.

Hear one of the latest laments and its sheer symbolism: “My daughter,” cried an anguished father, “is languishing in Sambisa forest in the hands of her captors.

I have not seen her for weeks now. I have lost my peace.”

And who does the hurting father address his lament to? “Nigerians must know that we are in trouble and suffering here.”

Nigerians? Why not the government that, at least, going by the good old Social Contract, is depository of all power and so has the legal responsibility to protect all?

Tell that to the Chibok folk and you probably are talking gas. Such, it appears, is their complete alienation from the

Cry, my Chibok country present order that they would rather pitch their tents with equally powerless fellow Nigerians.

Hear the parent resume his lament: “Last Sunday, the attackers came and killed over 58 people in churches across three communities. Before then, we got the hint about the impending attack, but we were helpless. The soldiers around could not come out to our rescue. They came to say to us that they were sorry; that they had been over-powered. So they left us to our fate”!

So, this is what a part of Nigeria has become, some failed state where the strongest, no matter how crazed or irrational, is simply king? Is this what Nigeria has become, some pre-historic state of nature, in which Thomas Hobbes described life as nasty, brutish and short?

Indeed, continuing on the Chibok lament lane, one has an eerie experience of what

Given the indissoluble association between new government accomplishments and terrorist strikes, it follows that if the authorities are truly minded to curb terrorism, they would have to freeze with immediate effect any project or activity that might lead them to proclaim success of any kind or move Boko Haram to suspect that the nation is moving forward.

The authorities would have to curb their predilection for taking the thought for the deed and for celebrating mere intent as glorious achievement. In short, they must stop creating the illusion of momentum, for that only incenses the Boko Haramites and drives them to murderous rage.

This means tamping down all those claims about the wonders that the Transformation Agenda and the Industrial Revolution and the New Automotive Policy and the New Agricultural Policy and the Cassava Revolution and the Rice Revolution and the New Rail and Water Transportation Policy have wrought, not forgetting the zillions of jobs they have spawned of will spawn.

It means the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its agent, the Federal Government, not winning another election, Ekiti-style.

It means not staging any international conference.

It means desisting from re-basing the economy again, no matter the provocation or the benefits; it means restraining all those rating bodies from ranking any Nigerian among the world’s richest people; it means not calling global attention to the largest fleet of executive jetliners in Africa and one of the largest in the world, is owned and operated by Nigerians, as President Jonathan has been doing.

It most certainly means summoning those overzealous Transformation Ambassadors to modesty. It means ordering them to desist from placing Dr. Jonathan in the same league as Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, Lee Kuan Yew and Barack Obama.

Armed with Maku’s hypothesis, the security forces can now calibrate with greater confidence the national threat level and accordingly mobilise first responders. Whenever yet another epochal achievement is being proclaimed from on high, they know it is time to sound the alarm and deploy their anti-terror machine against the Boko Haram strike that is sure to follow.

Residents of cities prone to terrorist attacks now have a reliable warning system: Take cover when the Minister of Industry declares that the all-Nigeria automobile that compares favourably with those built in Japan, Germany and South Korea and costs much less is about to roll off the assembly line.

You know then that Boko Haram must be lurking in the neighbourhood.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above Hobbes must have meant in describing his state of nature.

The Chibok father again: “What the gunmen now do is that they would enter our houses, pack our food and burn them.

We are now in complete nakedness, suffering hunger, fear and helplessness, only waiting for death to come.”

And now the clincher, from a people, to which the government for all its supposed monopoly of coercion, has become history — and this testimony from a woman, even too scared to mention her name.

“What we are begging Nigerians, especially concerned influential mothers for, now, is for them to find any way possible to evacuate our children at least, because if we are killed the next minute, they will remain our legacy. Nigerians must not wait for a minute more; it is dangerous.”

Is there anything called government here?

Well, there is. The problem is, it is perhaps too busy strategising how to win elections, by hook or by crook, or how to impeach a sitting governor, or how to ... Anything will do but Chibok and its endless troubles!

May God save us all from fatallydistracted governments!

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