The Nation June 03, 2015

Newspaper of the Year

Ondo govt breaks into ex-deputy governor’s house NEWS Page ?

•N8b ‘fraud’: CBN staff, four others remanded in prison P4 •Buhari seeks Senate’s approval to appoint 16 advisers P6 •Boko Haram suicide attack kills scores in Maiduguri P4 •‘There’ll be no crisis over National Assembly leadership’ P6

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VOL. 10, NO. 3234 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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•INSIDE: BLATTER RESIGNS AMID SCANDAL P42 PDP CHIEFS VISIT FAYOSE P8

•Fire fighters at the scene of the incident ... yesterday.

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PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA AND ADEJO DAVID

23 vehicles, 30 shops burnt in Lagos fire

By Seun Akioye, Assistant Editor

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ANY were yesterday drenched in tears as they mourned their losses in a massive midnight fire.

There were rows of shops and vehicles consumed by the fire, which occurred after a petrol tanker fell and spilled its content.

The scene of ruination was Iyana-Ipaja Continued on page 4

•Some of the shops consumed by the fire ... yesterday.

•Segun Atanda, the owner of the bus that the tanker fell on ...

•Mr Ambode answering questions ... yesterday yesterday

APC moves to stop PDP’s plot for Senate president PDP orders senators to vote one candidate ? A WILL THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15, LAST YEAR EVER RETURN?

FEW days to the convening of the eighth National Assembly, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has launched a plot to take the Senate presidency from the All Progressives Congress (APC) which controls the majority of senators.

But the APC is not taking chances.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

It has summoned a meeting of its lawmakers to forge a united front.

The plot, if it succeeds, may lead to the return of outgoing Senate President David Mark and his deputy Ike Ekweremadu to their positions.

The PDP has directed its 49 senators to vote for one candidate when the eighth Senate convenes.

The APC is left with 59 Senators following the death of reelected Borno Senator Ahmed Zanna.

Although APC ought to produce the next President of the Senate, with its simple majority, the party has not

reached a consensus.

Senate Committee on Public Accounts Chairman Ahmed Lawan and Ecology Committee Chairman Bukola Saraki are locked in a battle of popularity for the job.

The Nation learnt that PDP leaders at the party’s retreat in Port Continued on page 4

•DOCTORS HAIL ‘SPECTACULAR’ STEP TOWARDS CANCER CURE PAGE 51

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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Obasanjo, F

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (second left); President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Otunba Femi Deru (second right); his predecessor, Mr. Chidi Onyeukwu Ajaegbu (left) and Registrar/Chief Executive of the Institute, Mr. Rotimi Omotoso at the investiture of Otunba Deru as ICAN’s 51st President at the Council Chamber, Victorial Island, Lagos...yesterday.

•Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (second left); his deputy Dr. Oluranti Adebule (second right); Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Tunji Bello (right) and Head of Service (HoS) Mrs. Shade Jaji at the governor’s maiden meeting with civil servants at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos...yesterday.

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

•Ex-Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) Alhaji Atiku Abubakar congratulating the former Agriculture Minister, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina as the Presidentelect, African Development Bank (AfDB), before Atiku's departure to South Africa...yesterday.

•From left: Divisional Head,Operations & Technology Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr Akeem Adesin; Divisional Head, Small & Medium Enterprises (SME), Mr. Abdulganiyu Mohammed; Managing Director\Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa and Executive Director, SME, Mr. Waheed Olagunju at the launch of the bank’s SME digital products in Lagos...yesterday.

PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU

To many Nigerians, the Fourth Republic came into being with ease. But, seasoned journalist DARE BABARINSA says the democracy that has endured for 16 unbroken years could have been a stillborn if not for the intervention and sacrifice of some stakeholders. He traces the journey and says the concession of defeat by a sitting President to an opposition challenger has saved the country its worst nightmare.

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WENTY-FOUR months ago, it may have appeared farfetched to think of Nigeria’s immediate future without the role of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan in it. He was the leader of Africa’s most powerful and richest country. He was the Commander-in-Chief of the continent’s largest armed forces. He was propelled to power by the largest and most formidable political party in Nigeria’s history which was destined to rule in the first instance for “60 unbroken years.” He had in his grasp, the powers of the Nigerian Presidency with its near omnipotence and all-pervading reach. Then he started believing in his own invincibility and inviolability, ensnared by the sirens of sychophants and shackled by his own idiosyncratic preoccupations. He was going full-steam in his “unsinkable Titanic” and did not see the tip of the iceberg ahead. Now, he is home after almost six years in the sanctum of power, to embrace the creeping sunset. ‘Goodluck’ to him!

Yes, Jonathan did a lot to earn himself the red card from the electorate, though he was a beneficiary of a multiethnic rainbow coalition in 2011. He lost his command, almost lost his party and led it to its first defeat in 16 years of Nigeria’s unbroken democracy.

Future historians may unravel what happened to a man brought to power by uncommon ‘Goodluck’ and with so much roaring support, who finally ended his tour of duty on a note of sorry whisper.

Handover ritual Whatever they may unravel however, they would not but commend him for his dignified carriage which lends solemn majesty to the ritual of handover to President Muhammadu Buhari, his old opponent and ultimate Nemesis.

Transition has always been a problem for Nigeria, especially from one elite group to another. Before Gen Olusegun Obasanjo (rtd) handed over power to elected President Shehu Shagari on October 1, 1979, all Nigerian heads of government since independence have died in office with the notable exception of Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), who was toppled in a military coup on July 29, 1975. Before then, Alhaji Abubakar TafawaBalewa, the country’s first and only Prime Minister had been killed on duty on January 15, 1966. His successor, Maj-Gen. Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, the first military Head of Government, was also killed on duty on July 29, 1966 and he was succeeded by Gen. Gowon, who ruled for nine eventful years. Gen. Gowon’s successor, Gen. Murtala Ramat Muhammed, was also killed on duty on February 13, 1976.

After Gen. Obasanjo broke the jinx, two other Nigerian rulers have died in office. Gen. Sani Abacha’s iron rule was brought to an abrupt end when he died suddenly in June 1998 paving the way for Gen AbdulsalamiAbubakar (now rtd). The death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, after a lingering period of illness, ushered in the era of former President Jonathan. Now, Dr.

Jonathan has taught us how to have an almost seamless transition with a sitting President conceding victory to his opponent and then attending to the rigour and drama of the inauguration rituals.

History beckons Dr. Jonathan was the man who saved Nigeria from fulfilling its worst nightmare, especially, considering the hate-campaign that characterised the presidential campaign and the saberrattling from his so-called militant supporters. One is happy that President Buhari gave him due recognition during his inauguration address, commending him for his statesmanship and grace.

One man who played a similar role was Chief Olu Falae, the presidential candidate of the defunct All Peoples Party (APP) and the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD), joint alliance that tackled the behemoth Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 1979. Falae’s opponent was the redoubtable Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, a Civil War veteran and the country’s most profound political strategist. The 1999 presidential election was fraught with irregularities, but in the end, Chief Obasanjo was declared the winner by the electoral commission.

Chief Falae and his supporters were seriously disappointed. Most members of Idile Odua, the pan-Yoruba group to which I belonged, were supporters of Falae, who was the official candidate of Afenifere, the mainstream Yoruba political and cultural organisation under the leadership of the late Senator Abraham Adesanya. After Obasanjo was declared the winner, Falae met with his close aides and supporters at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.

Our friend and member of Idile, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, (the immediate past Minister of State for Works under Dr. Jonathan) was with them at the Abuja meeting.

While Falae was billed to address a press conference in Abuja, one of our most prominent leaders, Bayo Adenekan, the deputy leader of Idile and then the managing director of Capital Oil Plc., called me on the phone (there were landed phones in those ancient, pre-Obasanjo days!), saying there was fire on the mountain! I was already dressed up to go to work and the Adenekan’s phone call changed my itinerary for the day. He said Otunba Solanke Onasanya (now late), one of the most prominent Afenifere leaders, had called him, asking for our intervention in preventing a crisis that may be ignited by the pending press conference of Chief Falae. Sure enough, the late Otunba Onasanya called me and in an agitated voice, requested me to talk to Chief Falae immediately. “He must not go ahead with that press conference unless he is willing to amend the content of his statement,” Baba Onasanya said flatly.

Onasanya said he was privy to the draft statement to be read by Falae where he would call for the cancellation of the result of the presidential election. He said those like Falae (he was also detained by the Abacha dictatorship), who had been at the van-

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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NEWS

, Falae and why Buhari is ‘Goodluck’

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•President Buhari

•Gen. Abdulsalami

guard for the restoration of democracy should not be calling for the cancellation of the presidential result. “The worst civilian regime is better than the best military government,” Onasanya said. “Cancellation means annulment.

We know what our people suffered, following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola.”

I promised Baba Onasanya that I will carry out the assignment. Chief Falae was our candidate and he emerged according to our prescription. Our colleagues wanted the presidential candidate of the AD to be nominated by the caucus of the leadership of Afenifere and not by open primary. We had wanted the same for the governors, but the late Senator Adesanya said he had to agree to hold open primaries because of pressures on him from some of the young Turks within the movement. This almost led to the emergence of those we called “Abacha politicians” (those who served in the military government or participated in the politics of Abacha’s five political parties) as governorship candidates of the AD, especially in Lagos and Ondo State. Rearguard action restored our favoured candidates, but the damage was extensive.

In Lagos, Senator Bola Tinubu emerged and in Ondo State, Chief Adebayo Adefarati emerged, shutting the door to the formidable Mrs. Mobolaji Osomo, one of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin’s most trusted lieutenants. Hence, the close caucus primary that led to the emergence of Falae, a phenomenon that, ironically also, divided the movement for supporters of the late Chief Bola Ige, the first elected governor of the old Oyo State, who lost the contest, believed he was robbed.

Therefore, Chief Falae went to war with a divided army, but we were not prepared for defeat. Our candidate was a first-class bureaucrat, who had ran a presidential campaign before and had a nationwide structure and

•Dr. Jonathan

•Chief Falae

acceptance. But he had lost to the ‘old soldier’ muscle of Chief Obasanjo, whose campaign war-chest was incomparable.

Between Falae and Obasanjo When the result was announced, we believed Obasanjo had won unfairly.

What with the critical report of the international observer teams and the secret reports of the security agencies?

How can Obasanjo and the PDP defeat the combine forces of the AD/ APP, which produced the vice-presidential candidate of the alliance, Alhaji Umarru Shinkafi, a former DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Security Organisation (NSO), now State Security Service (SSS), who were entrenched in the politics of the old north? We wanted war. Then the call from Baba Onasanya, he said if Chief Falae calls for annulment, then he would be playing into the hands of a clique within the ruling military junta which was not happy with the transition programme.

He said if Falae rejects the result outright, then that clique may have an upper hand over the group that supports Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, who wanted the transition to go on.

I called Adeyeye at the Sheraton and briefed him on the Onasanya assignment. “We are calling for cancellation because we have been robbed,” said Adeyeye. “There is nothing wrong with starting again.”

Yes, we may start again, but we don’t know how long the journey would take and the cost in lives and property. The journey that started after the annulment of the late Abiola’s victory in 1993 had been long and costly. We cast our lot with Falae because he shares our belief that Nigeria needs constitutional reforms. We want a federation that would allow the Yoruba people of Western Nigeria living in Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti and Ondo State to have one regional government instead of the present sixstate government. We believe that “there is only one Yoruba Nation, it has a common interest and one inescap-

•Chief Obasanjo

•The late Pa Adesanya

able destiny.” We are convinced that such a regional government would have the capacity to promote the political, cultural and economic interests of our people and this would impact positively on the fortunes of Nigeria.

It would have the capacity to embark on life-changing programmes like the construction of modern rail lines, airports, power projects and create a template for relating to other Yoruba people in Nigeria, especially in Kogi, Kwara, Edo and Delta and also outside Nigeria in Benin, Togo and the American and Caribbean Diaspora.

We believe this could be achieved politically if we have a president who shared our passion for constitutional reforms. Falae was ours, but the electorate preferred the old soldier, Chief Obasanjo. Despite the loss, we were not sure we want to go back to the starting block.

Adeyeye said the press conference would hold in the next 20 minutes. I told him about our fears of another protracted political crisis. Soon, he was able to get Chief Falae to the phone. It was a long conversation lasting more than 15 minutes. In the end, Falae addressed the press conference, about two hours behind schedule. He did not call for the cancellation of the result. Instead, as we counselled, he rejected the result and promised that he would challenge it at the tribunal. He did.

The following Monday when the ruling junta met at the Aso Rock Villa, the clique within the junta called for the cancellation of the result, based on the reports of the security agencies and some of the international observers, but Gen. Abdulsalami was able to wave them aside.

“You cannot weep more than the bereaved,” he was quoted as saying.

“Chief Olu Falae, the man directly involved, has said he would challenge the result at the tribunal. Let the tribunal do its duty.”

But that was not to be the end of the matter. Few weeks later, the tribunal was siting in Abuja. One of the witnesses from the government side said

A friend of ours close to the tribunal said without the instrument, then Obasanjo would be declared ineligible to contest and therefore, the tribunal would have no choice than to cancel the result of the presidential election. He said it was not certain that it would declare Chief Falae elected by default.

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he was not aware that Chief Obasanjo had been pardoned by the military government. He said there was no instrument of pardon which could only have been signed by the Head of the Junta, Gen Abubakar. This was a critical development. A friend of ours close to the tribunal said without the instrument, then Obasanjo would be declared ineligible to contest and therefore, the tribunal would have no choice than to cancel the result of the presidential election. He said it was not certain that it would declare Chief Falae elected by default.

Protecting democratic institutions There were only two options. We should get the instrument of pardon and present same to the tribunal. Or, we could get Chief Falae to withdraw his petition and save the entire process. It was late afternoon when we got this information. We decided to act on it immediately.Two of my colleagues Bayo Adenekan and Prince Adedokun Abolarin, now our royal father, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Osun State, were dispatched to see the late Senator Adesanya in Ijebu-Igbo, and discuss the options with him. The late Senator Adesanya immediately invited them to a meeting of the caucus at the palace of Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland.

The meeting became an all-night one.

Present along with Adesanya were many of the leaders of Afenifere including Baba Onasanya, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi and Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

Kabiyesi Awujale and some of his chiefs were also present. Senator Adesanya said the best thing to do was to inform Obasanjo and Falae immediately about the new development. A few phone calls confirmed that Obasanjo was somewhere abroad in South America. Chief Falae was in London as a guest of the international businessman, Chief Harry Akande.

In the end, it was decided that the best option was to prevail on Chief Falae to withdraw his petition and

save the embrayonic democracy. A call was put through to Chief Falae and his host. Chief Falae said he was in the dark about this development and that only his lawyer could brief him properly. His lawyer was in Nigeria and Falae believed he was competent to handle any development. The lawyer was called in the middle of the night. He listened patiently to Baba Adesanya and then said he can only take instructions from his client, Chief Falae. Another call was put through to Falae who said he cannot give instructions on the phone without a proper discussion with his lawyer.

Senator Adesanya requested that Chief Falae should return immediately. Chief Akande then promised to bring Falae home in his private jet.

In the end, events took an unexpected turn. The top official who claimed he could not find the instrument of pardon later changed his testimony and tendered the instrument to the tribunal during a subsequent sitting. What was clear was that Chief Falae, despite his being the aggrieved party, was ready to make all necessary sacrifice to save the system and protect the institutions of democracy.

Those institutions have survived in various forms since that eventful night at the Awujale Palace. Since then, Adesanya, Onasanya, Bola Ige, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Solomon Lar and many of the great veterans of the anti-Abacha struggle that gave our great country the current democratic dispensation, have since passed to the great beyond. Their sacrifices made our freedom possible.

Conceding defeat as antidote to nightmare Like Falae did in 1999, we have seen again how the statesmanship of Goodluck Jonathan mayhave prevented the fulfillment of our worst nightmare. Africa’s greatest nation has passed an historic test. It is now the good fortune of President Buhari to ensure competent men and women to man national institutions to ensure the growth and prosperity of our great country. We are on the threshold when new demands would be made, for there are outstanding issues, especially constitutional issues that have not been addressed since 1999, and only competent persons could handle them.

Nigeria is lucky to have Buhari as President. His passion and patriotism are necessary ingredients to take necessary action to make Nigeria continue on an irreversible journey to stability and progress. He was military ruler when Nigeria had only 19 states and 20 governments. Now we have 36 states and 37 governments including that of the FCT and the Federal Government. There is a need to visit the demand for constitutional reforms so that those zones that want their own regions can have them. If unity is good for Nigeria, it cannot be bad for the regions.

We are lucky too that Jonathan is back in Otuoke in good health if not in high spirit. God is good to Nigeria and our leaders are no longer going home in body bags. Jonathan has now joined the most exclusive Boys Club in Nigeria, the club of retired Heads of Government. He, President Shagari and Chief Ernest Shonekan are the only civilians there. The others: Gowon, Obasanjo, Babangida and Abubakar are old soldiers. A job is also waiting for him as the next chairman of the PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT).

I hope now he will find time to reply most of his letters and write new ones.

I am sure if the new tenant of Aso Rock does not reply his letters, he will not be surprised, and find the good humour to take it in his stride.

Babarinsa, journalist, media entrepreneur and author, is the Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Gaskia Media Limited.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

NEWS SiX CBN officials, four other bankers remanded in prison for N8b ‘fraud’

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IX Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) officials and four others were yesterday ordered to be remanded in prison till June 9 when their application for bail will be heard.

They were remanded by the Justice Ayo Emmanuel of a Federal High Court, sitting in Ibadan, where they are standing trial in seven cases brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The accused are facing a 31count charge ranging from conspiracy, abuse of office, stealing to false declaration and concealing of property.

The CBN officials, who worked at various branches of the apex bank are Patience Okoro (Abuja), Afolabi Olufemi (Lagos), Ilori Adekunle (Akure), Kolawole Babalola (Ibadan), Olaniran Adeola (Ibadan) and Fatai Yusuf (Ibadan).

The four other accused persons, who work with some commercial banks and are accused of conspiring with the CBN employees, are Tope Akintade, Togun Kayode Philip, Salami Ibrahim and Odia Emmanuel.

Seven cases are filed on the alleged N8 billion fraud.

They were accused of stealing and recirculating defaced and mutilated currencies

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

meant for destruction, substituting them with newspapers.

They all pleased “not guilty” to the five-count charge in the first case.

At the opening of the first batch of three cases yesterday, counsel to the accused laboured in vain to make the judge accept an oral application for their bail.

The lead prosecution counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), told the court that his team had filed a charge dated May 19.

He pleaded it should be read to the accused.

While making the oral application for his client Kolawole Babalola’s bail, Mr. O. Bolanle, who led the defence counsel, urged the court to grant the bail because the offences allegedly committed are not punishable by death.

He laboured hard to persuade the judge to accept the oral application and use his discretion in favour of his client.

But the judge interrupted him, wondering if he thought oral application for bail could be granted on such weighty offences.

Bolanle, however, persisted with tenacity, emphasising that the nature of an applica-

tion on which bail could be granted is not explicitly stated in the law. He insisted that it was in the discretion to grant bail, irrespective of whether the application is oral or written.

The lawyer cited Section 118 (2) of the Criminal Procedure Act, which he said had been affirmed by the Court of Appeal in the case between M. K. O. Abiola and the Federal Government of Nigeria as reported on page 115 of 1995 Nigerian Weekly Law Report.

According to him, the offences for which his client was standing trial was not as weighty as that of Abiola. He also referred to a case between Justice Nikki Tobi and Mr Suleiman, a one-time Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, which was reported in 2008.

Bolanle added that the prosecution had already granted his client an administrative bail in the past, adding that he did not abuse it in the course of investigation.

Counsel to the five other accused persons aligned with him in their oral application for bail.

But Jacobs punctured their arguments, saying the law did not state that all applications for bail can be oral. He also cited the case of Fasehun

•Some of the suspected CBN officials and others on arrival in court in Ibadan ... yesterday.

PHOTO: FEMI ILESANMI

versus Attorney General of the Federation reported in 2008 in the All Federation Law Report, Part 423, page 1369, part 1406-1407 where oral application for bail was declined. “An appeal was made and an application for bail was put at the discretion of the judge,” he said.

The prosecution also pointed out that the Criminal Procedure Act cited by the Defence counsel had been repealed since May 18, reclassifying bail to minor and major, based on the nature of offences committed.

Justice Emmanuel, in his short ruling, declined the defence counsel’s request, stressing that the offences were too weighty for consid-

eration of an oral application for bail. He ordered the counsel to file a written application, which will be heard on June 9. He ordered the accused to be remanded in prison till then.

Trial was adjourned till July 6 and 7.

The second case involves five of the accused and two others said to be at large.

They pleaded “not guilty” to the 11-count charge. The defence counsel relied on their previous arguments while the judge applied the initial ruling and adjourned dates for bail hearing and trial.

Four accused persons are facing a 15-count charge in the third case. The accused are Kolawole Babalola,

Olaniran Muniru, Toogun Philip and Tope Akintade.

One other accused is said to be at large.

They also pleaded “not guilty” to the charges. The initial ruling and adjourned dates were adopted, but the trial dates changed to July 2 and 3.

Earlier in the day, the court premises was filled up with EFCC operatives, litigants and their relations, reporters and observers who wanted to witness the proceeding, in spite of the early morning rain.

Policemen had a hectic time controlling the crowd.

The hearing of the remaining four cases continues today (Wednesday) at the same court.

APC moves to stop PDP’s plot for Senate President •Sokoto State Governor, Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, welcoming Mr. Michael Galway of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation when he visited the Governor in Sokoto ... yesterday.

23 vehicles, 30 shops burnt in Lagos fire Continued from page 1

in Agbado Oke Odo Local Council Development Area (LCDA). No lives were lost in the incident.

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode arrived at the scene of the incident around 9:45 am. He commiserated with the victims of the fire and promised that the government will help the owners of the burnt homes and shops within 48 hours.

Ambode said: “It is a sad incident that a tanker fell from the bridge down to this street. All the agencies have been effectively on ground and we have been able to manage and control the consequences of what 33,000 liters of petrol would have done to this neighbourhood.

But we thank God there has not been any loss of life but we have victims whose shops have been destroyed.

“We also recorded two other incidents, just like this one in Lagos overnight – one in Badagry and the other one in Ojo area.”

Senator-elect Adeola sad

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HE Senator-elect for Lagos West Senatorial District, Hon. Solomon Adeola has expressed sadness over the incident.

The Senator-elect, who is the outgoing representative of Alimosho Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives said the accident is unfortunate at this trying period of the nation with serious hardship being experienced by the people.

Hon. Adeola called on relevant regulatory agencies to come up with policies on the control and maintenance of articulated vehicles carrying explosive substances like petrol as most of the accidents relating to such vehicles could be traced to lack of maintenance as well as their hours of operation in densely populated areas like Alimosho.

The Senator elect, in a statement signed by his media adviser Chief Kayode Odunaro, called on policemen and other security agencies to exercise utmost restraint in their dealings with drivers of articulated vehicles as the accident was reported to be related to altercations between Policemen and the driver of the ill-fated truck.

It was drizzling as the governor inspected the scene. He had a word for tanker drivers – they must become responsible and careful.

Ambode said: “It will also mean that we have to start doing something about our tanker drivers. We cannot

continue to have losses of properties and lives just because our tanker drivers have become undisciplined. While we are trying to address all that, we will ensure that all those who have lost properties and even lost their shops, we quickly find a way to let

them get back to their normal business lives. Immediately I receive the report of this incident, in the next 48 hours, I will ensure that we do something positively, so that life can come back to normal here.”

Everyone agreed that the fire was caused by the spilled petrol from a 33,000 - litre tanker with registration number KJA 238 XN, which fell from the tail of the Iyana Ipaja Bridge onto the new Iyana Ipaja Road, there was confusion about the remote causes of the incident.

According to Lagos State Fire Service officials, there was a distress call around 1:15 am on Tuesday that a petrol tanker had fallen off the bridge. Officials rushed down to the incident met an inferno which had engulfedscene to find four streets engulfed by the fire.

According to Dare John, Chief Fire Superintendent, who was one of the first to beat the scene, said: “We reContinued on page 60

Continued from page 1

Harcourt,the Rivers State capital, for its senators-elect and members of the House of Representatives-elect mooted the idea of the opposition retaining the senate presidency.

It was gathered that the PDP leaders agreed that with block votes by its 49 senators, the party could win the must coveted seat with a simple majority.

The permutation of the PDP is that APC might be unable to birdge the gap between Lawan and Saraki.

A highly-placed source said: “The PDP leaders held a secret meeting in Port Harcourt on Monday night to finetune the plot.

“The development may see

Mark and Ekweremadu joining the race in a ‘tactical moment’ if the APC remains divided.

“The PDP is seeking to retain the office because there is no rule which says either the majority party or the opposition should produce the president of the Senate.”

The source cited Section 50 (1) of the 1999 Constitution to back the lacuna.

The section says: “There shall be a President and a Deputy President of the Senate who shall be elected by the members of that House from among themselves…”

Apparently sensing the danger in going into the Senate presidency race divided, the APC leadership has Continued on page 60

Boko Haram suicide attack kills scores in Maiduguri •We’ll sustain the onslaught tempo, says military

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OKO Haram yesterday sustained their suicide mission in the Northeast – the battle they re-launched on President Muhammadu Buhari’s inauguration day.

Another suicide attack in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, took place yesterday afternoon at the Kasuwan Shanu(meat market).

There are conflicting figures of casualities. While some people claimed 50 people dies, others said it was 20. But the police chief said five people were killed by the bomber.

Yesterday’s was the fourth bomb blast within Maiduguri and Biu town in Borno State since May 29.

A butcher at the abattoir one Ado Mohammed Lawan said after the bomb went off, many

From Duku Joel, Maiduguri and Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

of the victims were burnt beyond recognition “Most of the people taken to the hospital were completely burnt. You could only identify some of them from the head. I started counting the dead but I lost count because I could not continue. But over 20 people that I counted were burnt beyond recognition” Lawan informed.

The Police in Borno said five persons died when the suicide bomber struck.

Mr Aderemi Opadokun, the Continued on page 60

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NEWS Don’t push Reps out of offices, says Ihedioha From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

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•APC National Chairman, Chief John Oyegun (right) leading other party chieftains to a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Defence Guest PHOTO: NAN House in Abuja...yesterday.

How next legislature can perform better, by Zwingina, Mamora, others •8th National Assembly to be inaugurated June 9

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ENATORS Olorunnimbe Mamora, Jonathan Zwingina, Joseph Waku, Olubunmi Adetunmbi and former House of Representatives member Musa Elayo yesterday said the incoming National Assembly would only surpass its predecessors by upholding its independence.

Zwingina advised the National Assembly against yielding the choice of its leadership to forces outside the legislature.

Waku stressed the risk of the lawmakers subjecting the arm of government to Executive control. Mamora stressed the need for the legislators to be committed to their responsibilities.

Elayo advised the legislators against compromising

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

their primary responsibilities.

They spoke in Abuja yesterday at a pre-inaugural retreat for newly-elected members of the National Assembly held at the instance of Senators Forum and the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), with the theme: “Building synergy with civil society organisations, media and constituents.”

Zwingina blamed the failure of the legislature on constitutional inadequacies, interference from other rams of the government, and the willingness of lawmakers to trade their constitutionally guaranteed powers for political gains.

He stressed that the identified inadequacies account

for the identified failure of the legislature to effective check the Executive, as required by the constitution.

This, he added, accounts for why annual budgets are not well attended to, and oversight functions, not well carried out.

Zwingina, who doubted the country’s capacity to account for its oil earnings, said the control and management of the nation’s oil earnings were in the hands of the multinationals oil companies.

He cited an instance where a Senate Committee went on an oversight function to an oil exploration facility, but had to rely on Shell’s facilities to achieve their aims, including having to pay the visiting legislators per diem.

Zwingina, who regretted

former President Goodluuck Jonathan’s failure to assent to the amended Constitution, urged the new legislators to work on what is left.

Mamora and Waku urged the new legislature to commit themselves to the responsibilities of the National Assembly. He cautioned them against speaking publicly against the legislature.

Momora urged the new law makers to ensure that “democracy works and works better.”

Adetunmbi, representing Ekiti North, educated the law makers on how to navigate the tricky waters of parliamentary operations. He told the lawmakers that, “at the end, it is interest and relations that mater. The essence of the Legislature, within the con-

cept of separation of power, is to check the excess of the Executive.”

PLAC’s Executive Director Clement Nwankwo said the essence of the retreat was to empower the new legislators and those returning on how the effectively perform their roles of lawmaking and checking Executive’s excesses.

The Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Ben Efeturi, who spoke for the Clerk, announced that the 8th National Assembly would be inaugurated on June 9. He said the 7th Assembly will proceed on its terminal leave on Thursday.

He told the lawmakers that they required a lot of “knowledge, support base and background support to act effectively.”

Momoh, Alaibe, others set agenda for Buhari on Niger Delta

F

ORMER Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Timi Alaibe and former Minister of Information Chief Tony Momoh yesterday suggested ways President Muhammadu Buhari can bring change and development to the Niger Delta.

Momoh and Alaibe spoke at a talk-shop with the theme: “President Muhammadu Buhari’s Change Agenda and the Niger Delta Struggle for Development” in Abuja.

The dialogue was organised by the Gatekeepers Foundation, Change Ambassadors of Nigeria and Niger Delta Media Professionals.

Alaibe recommended broad action strategies to Buhari as a means of delivering infrastructural and socio-economic development to the Niger Delta region.

The former Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs said it was still a matter of reflection whether or not Dr Goodluck Jonathan used the opportunity presented him to benefit the people of the region or not.

He said: “There is unfolding reflections particularly among Niger Delta folks on

•’ Jonathan’s achievements debatable’ From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

the one hand whether or not the immediate past administration held by one of our own maximized the available opportunities to actualise the goals of Niger Delta.

“On the other hand, whether or not Niger Delta people and especially the region’s elites and activists made an earnest, collective and active effort to get the last administration to maximise the opportunity. This reflection described so subtly may continue for quite a while and take on a variety of turns.

“It may trigger various perceptions and misconceptions as whether or not the answers to the two questions above raise any estoppels however temporarily on the issues and advancement of Niger Delta struggle.”

He maintained that the people of Niger Delta while maintaining their historical aspirations cannot wait and cannot be kept waiting any longer for development.

He added that the Buhari’s administration, would itself be eager to deliver as fast as is

realistic on the expectations of Nigerians and to justify the huge wave of local and global goodwill he has received so far.

He insisted that Buhari would be determined to demonstrate in all possible ways, in his own words, he belongs to everybody by delivering visible development to the people.

He said: “So, the question is, what is change for the Niger Delta? The mantra of this new administration is change.

What will constitute change for the Niger Deltan?

“Change for the Niger Delta in terms of development will to a large extent simply mean the following: Provision of critical infrastructure and social amenities that will make life more meaningful to make them communicate and compete on equal terms with other parts of the country and of the world; effective participation in National economy especially in sectors that are based on the nation’s endowments such as maritime and petroleum sectors; environmental protection, particular-

ly, from the ravages of petroleum pollution, safeguarding the fertility and integrity of the environment.”

Momoh, who was chairman of the event, said Buhari is the only President since independence that prepared himself to lead.

He said the new administration needs cooperation from the Niger Delta to be able to deliver on his developmental goals across the country.

Momoh said: “We need all the cooperation we can get.

Buhari needs cooperation from the Niger Delta. Niger Delta must remain one of the six zones that contribute to the development of the country.”

The Executive Director of Gatekeepers Foundation and chief host of the event, Blessing Agbomhere said the programmed was meant to articulate the expectation of the Niger Delta Region from the Buhari’s administration.

Agbomhere said he believed that Buhari is sincere in his promise to develop Nigeria in general and Niger Delta in particular.

CTING Speaker Emeka Ihedioha has urged the management of the National Assembly not to stampede members of the 7th House out of their offices.

In a memo to Senators and members, the management of the National Assembly asked them to vacate their offices by May 18 with the view to renovating all the offices ahead of the inauguration of the 8th Assembly.

Speaking at plenary yesterday, Ihedioha urged the lawmakers to go about their legislative activities without intimidation, adding that he would meet with the Clerk of the National Assembly to find an amicable settlement to the problem brought about by the circular.

Obuah seeks probe of Rivers’ ‘missing’ property

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HE Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rivers State chapter, Prince Felix Obuah, has called for the probe of the ‘missing’ government property.

Obuah accused ex-Governor Rotimi Amaechi of ‘unwarranted raid’ of government property.

He urged Governor Nyesom Wike to ensure that the alleged burgled items were recovered and all those who perpetrated such act were brought to book.

A statement by Obuah’s aide, Jerry Needam, reads: “The PDP says it is not happy that the people of the state have been thrown into this pathetic situation when they do not deserve it, considering the huge resources that have been available to the out-gone Governor Amaechi, meant for the development of the state and empowerment of the people, regretting that rather than appropriating the resources accurately and transparently.”

He added that “the looted items, even though it is aware that many of them are being sold off by the looters, can be found if there is a dyed-in-the wool effort aimed at recovering them by the Governor and the law enforcement agents”.

Ex-militants seek review of pipeline contract From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

A •Alaibe

He said: “We believe the present administration is ready to develop the Niger Delta. We believe they are sincere in their promise to implement all government policies for the Niger Delta.

“We expect Buhari to be a father to all Nigerians and to the Niger Delta in particular.”

Other dignitaries present at the event include former Minister of State for Niger Delta, Dr. Sam Ode, Managing Director of Ocean Marine Limited, Peter Dunia, Group Captain Sam Ewang, Chief Executive Officer of A&E Petroleum, Chief Ayiri Emami, Rivers State Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate, Prince Tonye Princewill among others.

group of ex-Niger Delta militants yesterday urged President Muhammadu Buhari to review the pipeline security contract awarded by former President Goodluck Jonathan to some ex-militant leaders.

They also appealed to the President not to scrap the Amnesty Programme as doing so could trigger unrest in the Niger Delta region.

Speaking at a news conference in Abuja, the National President of the group of ex-militants, under the aegis of the National Coalition of Niger DeltaEx-agitators, General Israel Akpodoro, said there was the need to review both the oil pipeline surveillance contract and the amnesty programme, saying they were meant to serve the interest of a few.

Citing fraud and selective treatment in the Federal Government’s palliative programmes, Akpodoro called on Buhari to revisit the two programmes.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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NEWS

There’ll be no crisis over Senate President, Speaker, says Oyegun

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HE Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has said there will be no crisis over the leadership of the National Assembly.

Odigie-Oyegun, who spoke in Abuja yesterday, said President Muhammadu Buhari would surprise the terrorist group, Boko Haram.

According to him, the increase in Boko Haram’s attacks after Buhari’s inauguration was to test the President’s resolve against the group.

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

The APC chairman, who spoke after he led members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party to a meeting with the President at the Defence House, Abuja, said: “There will be no crisis. I want to give you that assurance. We are very conscious of the fact that a National Assembly is the separate arm of government and the constitution provides that they are the ones responsible for electing their

•’Only Buhari can talk about his assets’ own officers. All we have to do is provide for them a conducive environment of doing just that.”

On how long it will take for the ministerial list to be released, Odigie-Oyegun said: “All I can say is that Mr. President is committed to carrying the party along in everything that he does and we are very grateful for that. He has always been like that; he has put the party on the front burner in all the things he does

at all times and he has continued to do that.”

On the plan to relocate the military command to the Northeast, he said: “There is nothing like lives. He was elected to protect Nigerian lives and that is even his first priority.”

Stressing that all the problems in the country cannot be solved in one day, he said that the party would stand with Buhari all through.

Odigie-Oyegun said: “We

noted the fact that expectations are extremely high and that the public expects a totally new dawn. On that score, ‘we told him we are with you, Mr. President you will succeed because the entire party will be galvanised as one man behind you, to ensure that days into this presidency that Nigerians will indeed see that things are changing.

“All the problems cannot be solved in one day…But

what Nigerians want is to be sure that we are getting it right and that we are on the proper path towards answering their long frustration towards ameliorating their condition and that is what they will get.”

On the meeting, OdigieOyegun said: “We did have frank discussions and I think all that happened is that he was quite appreciative of our declaration of support.

He briefed us on one or two issues and we are quite pleased at the way things are going.”

President Muhammadu Buhari with Service Chiefs during a meeting at the Defence House in Abuja... yestesrday.

PHOTO: NAN

Wike accuses Perm Secs of aiding last-minute ‘cash withdrawals’

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IVERS State Governor Nyesom Wike has accused some permanent secretaries in the state of aiding last minute ‘cash withdrawals’ by the last administration.

The governor spoke at a meeting with the permanent secretaries at the Government House, Port Harcourt yesterday.

Wike ordered permanent secretaries to produce the bank statements of their ministries for the last 18 months.

He advised the permanent secretaries to shun partisan politics as career civil servants, saying the roles some of them played in the closing days of the immediate past administration were politically motivated.

•Governor vows not to victimise civil servants Wike added that some permanent secretaries helped the immediate past administration to illegally withdraw funds from the State Government coffers.

He said: “I want full details and print out of every ministry’s account in the last 18 months. I will not accept any handover note without an accompanying account details.

“The government was coming to a close and some of you were busy signing cheques on 26, 27 and 28 of May. On 28 of May, the Transition Committee called most of you and you refused to cooperate because they told you I will not be sworn-in.”

The governor noted that he would not witch hunt any civil servant irrespective of his/her role in the electioneering period . He, however, said that no civil servant would be allowed to sabotage the efforts of his administration.

He urged the permanent secretaries to work with his administration to revive the state and put back smile on the faces of the people.

“Those of you who want to work with us to develop Rivers State will get the necessary support. You are career civil servants and not politicians.

As civil servants, don’t play the role of politicians,” he said.

The Rivers State governor

pointed out that “back-dated employments and indiscriminate issuance of certificates of occupancy by the immediate past administration” would be re-visited.

He directed the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands and Survey to produce the relevant land documents for examination. The permanent secretaries were led to the meeting by the Head of Service, Samuel LongJohn.

Others who attended the meeting were the former Minister of Sports, Dr Tammy Danagogo, Former Deputy governor, Tele Ikuru and Secretary of the Transition Committee, Frank Owhor.

Mark: hoodlums attacked me on way to Buhari’s inauguration

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From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Yemi Osinbajo and former President Goodluck Jonathan for a successful handover of government.

This followed a motion by Senate Leader Victor NdomaEgba and 107 other Senators entitled “Congratulations to President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR and others.”

Ndoma-Egba, in his lead debate, noted the successful handover of government and the inauguration of Buhari and Osinbajo.

He also noted the successful inauguration of some National Assembly members as

governors.

He listed the National Assembly members inaugurated as governors to include Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (Sokoto); Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta State); Senator Benedict Ayade (Cross River State), Senator Bindo Jibrilla (Adamawa), Senator Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi) and Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu).

Ndoma-Egba said the Senate identified with the Buhari government and the state governments under the leadership of “our colleagues in the National Assembly in their attempts to actualise the legitimate yearnings of our people for a greater country in all spheres of social-political and

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

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RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has asked the Senate to grant him the approval to appoint Special Advisers.

Buhari, in a June 2 memo titled: “Appointment of Special Advisers”, sought approval for the appointment of 15 Special Advisers.

The memo was read yesterday by Senate President David Mark.

The president said the request is sequel to the provision of Section 151(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The memo reads: “Pursuant to the provision of Section 151(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) which confers on me to appoint Special Advisers to assist me in the performance of my functions, I write to request for your kind consideration and approval of the Distinguished members of the Senate of the Federal Republic to appoint 15 Special Advisers as prescribed in Section 151(2-3)of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Buhari sought prompt consideration and approval of the request.

The names of the advisers were not stated. The president has already named a former Managing Director of The Sun Publishing Limited, Mr Femi Adesina, as his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

When his request is approved, he is expected to appoint 14 more Special Advisers.

ASUU seeks freedom for Western Sahara Republic

•’It’s backward for senators to be elected governors’ •Senate applauds Buhari, Jonathan for peaceful handover ENATE President David Mark yesterday said he was attacked by hoodlums last Friday on his way to the inauguration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Mark said the hoodlums damaged the windscreen of his vehicle. He also condemned senators who vacated their seats for the position of governor.

He said that after being a senator “we should look up and not look backward. But if some of our colleagues in order to make sacrifice decided to become governors, it should be seen as sacrifice; that is alright.”

The Senate also congratulated Buhari, Vice-President

Buhari seeks Senate’s approval to appoint 15 Special Advisers

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

T •Mark

economic life.”

Mark noted that for the first time in the political history of the country, the presidential election result was not contested at the tribunal.

He added: “It is not just enough to congratulate Buhari, we have to congratulate the former President Jonathan who willingly conceded defeat and followed it up with a phone call. We should congratulate Buhari, former President and every Nigerian.”

HE Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has condemned Morocco’s continued colonisation of the Western Sahara Republic.

ASUU urged the United Nations General Assembly to ensure freedom to the Saharawi people.

ASUU, in a statement by the convener, International Conference on the decolonisation of Western Sahara, Dr Dipo Fashina in Ibadan, added that it was no longer conceivable for a fellow African nation to colonise another country for over 36 years.

Western Sahara is situated between Morocco to the North, Mauritania to the South and Algeria to the East . It is the only one in Africa on the United Nations’ list of the remaining 16 dependent territories in the world.

Dr Fashina said: “While the African Nations celebrate African Liberation Day, the existence of a colony in Africa, worse still by a fellow African nation, Morocco and its allies in Europe and America is condemnable. We are going to galvanise support for collective action at the regional and global levels for the speedy liberation of Western Sahara.”

He said colonial subjugation was historical anachronism that must be expunged from the world,adding that the legacies of Pan-africanists and African liberation fighters would strengthen the struggle against modern-day colonialism.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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NEWS

Olanusi: Ondo officials broke into my apartment

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USTED Ondo State Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi yesterday said Governor Olusegun Mimiko illegally ordered state officials to break into his residence.

The former deputy governor alleged that Mimiko gave the order without a court order.

Olanusi, who was impeached for joining the All Progressives Congress

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

(APC) two days before the presidential election, said he had been out of the country and was yet to return to Ondo State.

He said: “I was out of the country when they decided to impeach me.

“I was away for health reasons and only returned two weeks ago.

“Since I returned to Niger-

ia, I have not been to Ondo State and have not been able to remove my things.

“I just received a call on Monday that some people, led by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor, Femi Akinrinlola, broke into the deputy governor’s residence through the kitchen and removed all my things.

“They took all my belong-

ings to an unknown destination.”

Olanusi said the proper thing for the governor to do was to obtain a court order, which would have been served on him but Mimiko decided to follow the path of impunity.

“I know Mimiko did not get a court order before carrying out this illegality be-

cause court workers just called off their strike.

“I just learnt from one of my ex-aides that Mimiko is just attempting to get a court order to legalise what he has done.

“Mimiko could have even informed me through the Permanent Secretary in the Deputy Governor’s Office, Kehinde Temikotan, but he failed to do so.”

Ekiti lawmakers for inauguration EKITI State Governor Ayodele Fayose will on Friday inaugurate the Fifth House of Assembly.

A statement by the Clerk of the House of Assembly, Tola Esan, said the ceremony will take place at the main chambers of the House at 10am.

“Government officials, traditional rulers and the public are invited,” the statement said.

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HE Oyo State House of Assembly yesterday passed the 2015 Appropriation Bill.

The N143.1billion budget is made up of recurrent expenditure N88,054,250,700 and capital expenditure N55,054,410,000.

The approved budget is N2 billion higher than the last budget presented to the House by Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

The Speaker, Hon Monsurat Sunmonu, passed the budget after the Committee on Public Account, Finance and Appropriation submitted its report.

The committee Chairman, Olusegun Olaleye, said: “We will surely monitor the budget utilisation and we hope for more infrastructural development in the state.”

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

A

From Sikiru Akinola, Ibadan

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From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

Vandals attack NNPC pipelines

UI workers protest ORKERS under the aegis of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan, Oyo State, yesterday defied the rain to protest the non-payment of their allowances.

The JAC, comprising the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU), National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) and Non Academic Staff Union of Universities and allied institutions (NASU), demanded full implementation of the 2009 agreement reached between the unions and the Federal Government.

The unions also demanded full payment of arrears from 2013.

SSANU Chairman Wale Akinremi said the allowances must be paid immediately.

Akinremi said: “The full implementation is expected to start this month. If the management fails to honour our agreement before June 30, we may not be able to guarantee industrial harmony in the university.

“The Federal Government paid for years before it asked universities to start paying.

“Other universities have started honuring the agreement. UI can afford the agreement.

“The VC is a manager; he should manage the system.

UI should be at the forefront of staff welfare.”

It was gathered that the unions marched on the campus and stopped at the vicechancellor’s temporary office at the VC’s Lodge.

The Registrar, Olujimi Olukoya, was said to have addressed the protesters.

He assured them that he would inform the management about their demands.

Apparently not satisfied, the workers later converged on Trenchard Hall, where another meeting, reportedly chaired by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Emilolorun Ayelari, was organised to pacify them.

Oyo Assembly passes budget

•Ambode (middle), Deputy Governor Mrs. Oluranti Adebule (second right), Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Tunji Bello (right), Chief of Staff to the Governor Olukunle Ojo (left) and Mrs. Jaji...yesterday.

Ambode promises better welfare for civil servants

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AGOS State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday met with public servants, reiterating his promise to improve their lot and change the face of the civil service.

The governor, who spoke at an interactive session at the Adeyemi- Bero Auditorium, Alausa, said his administration will focus on capacity building , which will enhance staff productivity and prepare them for retirement.

He said his vision is to build a public service devoid of discrimination and inhibitions.

“My dream for the public service is to have an establishment that would prepare you for retirement.

What happens to each and

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

every one of us when we leave service is what I am after in the next four years.

“There are a lot of opportunities, but you must work for them.

“I desire a public service where there would be no discrimination and where your circumstances will not inhibit you from progressing.

“We would not discriminate against you. We must have a good sense of harmony where people in the parastatals or in the local government service or in the mainstream are at par.

He expressed his readiness to meet the Joint Negotiating Council and resolve all issues relating to workers’

welfare.

“My major vision is a better civil service. I’m ready to address issues that relate to welfare.

“I know that whatever it is I am today, it is through the kind of training that I have received in the civil service, so I would place major emphasis on capacity building and training.”

Explaining his pronouncement on the creation of new ministries, the governor explained that it was not intended to increase the cost of governance, adding that the new ministries will be created by realigning existing ones, hence the number of ministries remain 24.

He sought the support and cooperation of public servants, promising to do ev-

erything possible to make life easier for them.

“I will accord you the respect that you deserve. I am ready to reward hard work, merit and professionalism, that is all that I gained from this place and so long as you are good, the top is your seat,” Ambode said.

The Head of Service, Mrs. Folashade Jaji, assured the governor of the workers’ readiness to cooperate with his administration and achieve his vision to move the state forward.

“On my part, you know I believe strongly that I have to show leadership by example and I also have to bring back everything that God has endowed me with to be able to bring it back to the public service and I am ready to do that.”

Fayose to Buhari: let me nominate ministerial candidate

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KITI State Governor Ayo Fayose yesterday

demanded for the right to nominate the minister to represent the state at the Federal Executive Council.

The governor, who belongs to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), promised to send what he called “a worthy and competent Ekiti professional for appointment” as minister in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government.

Fayose’s request is causing ripples in the state as he was among the PDP chieftains, who led a hate campaign against President Muhammadu Buhari in the runup to the March 28 presidential election.

He sponsored series of hate adverts with the most controversial, suggesting that Buhari might die in office on account of old age

From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

and unnamed health challenges.

But the governor noted that his request to nominate a ministerial candidate “was based on the declaration made by the President that he would put the overall interest of the country above partisan interests and biases”.

Fayose’s letter, dated May 31, stated that his demand was based on constitutional provisions.

The governor said: “Should the request be favourably disposed to, I shall be happy to nominate a worthy and competent professional who can always oblige your Excellency and your cabinet the benefit of a second opinion in the serious business of governance.”

He also hinted that his letter was on the strength of the 1999 Constitution Sec-

tion 147 (2) and (3).

Fayose argued that Ekiti is a PPD-controlled state where the governor, the National Assembly and the State Assembly members are all PDP members.

He contended that “in the spirit of an all inclusive government with capacity for national integration,” the President should accord him the honour and privilege to name the minister from Ekiti State.

In substantiating his argument, Fayose said former President Olusegun Obasanjo of the PDP appointed opposition figures into the then Federal Executive Council.

He cited the example of the late Chief Bola Ige who was initially appointed Minister of Power and Steel before he was later appointed Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

The governor also cited the example of former AD National Chairman, Alhaji Ahmed Abdulkadir, who was appointed Special Adviser by Obasanjo.

But the APC in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatubosun, described Fayose’s request as “a gratuitous insult and madness at its worst fit”.

The party said: “Even if he were to be APC governor, hasn’t President Muhammadu Buhari made it clear that he won’t allow governors pick ministers for him?

“Why didn’t Fayose fight for former Governor Kayode Fayemi to allow him suggest Ekiti ministerial nominees for President Goodluck Jonathan when the former President was appointing his ministers?

“We hope Fayose will, for once, strike a sane chord in his public conduct and stop hallucinating about the right to nominate candidates for Ekiti ministerial slot.”

N attempt by vandals to destroy one of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipelines in Mosinmi, Sagamu, Ogun State, was foiled by officials of the New Age Global Security and Surveillance.

The firm’s spokesman, Lateef Lawal, said 20 vandals invaded the pipeline, carrying a generator, pumping machine, digger, wrench, adaptor drilling, sledge hammer, spanner and other equipment.

A vehicle believed to be owned by the leader of the gang was recovered.

However, the vandals ran out of luck as the guards arrived the scene.

Lawal said men of the security outfit engaged the vandals in a gun battle.

The vandals fled, abandoning their tools and vehicle.

Adeboye to pray for leaders

By Adeola Ogunlade

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HE General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, will hold a special prayer service for leaders and emerging leaders at the church headquarters, The Throne of Grace, 1-9 Redemption Way, Ebute Meta, Lagos, on Sunday.

The Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Admin and Personnel, Pastor Johnson Odesola, made this known at a briefing in Lagos.

He said the essence of the special service is to pray specifically for leaders and emerging leaders in the country.

“This service, which is to be led by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, is to prepare all leaders and new leaders for the task of leading us to greater heights.

“This service is not only for political leaders as the challenge of nation building is for all of us. Leaders in various segments of our society are expected,” Odesola said.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

8

NEWS FNPH workers shut hospital

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EALTH workers at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital (FNPH), Yaba, Lagos, under the aegis of the National Association of Nurses and Midwives Council of Nigeria and Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, have embarked on an indefinite strike.

The workers, who converged on the patients’ dining hall, marched on the office of the Medical Director, Dr Rahman Abolore Lawal.

Carrying placards with various inscriptions, such as “Abolore Must Go”; “Health Workers of FNPH, Yaba Say No to Tenure Extension and Patient Suffering”; “Dr Abolore Lawal, FNPH Workers Say No to Anti-patient Policies and Workers Welfare”, the workers filed to the office of the Medical Director, who refused to address them.

The protesters’ spokesman, Comrade Uzundu Eke, said workers are tired of the “horrific” working system in the hospital and are against Lawal’s secret ambition to elongate his tenure, which expired in January.

But Lawal said his tenure expires in August and he has a right to reapply for a second term.

On the “horrific” working system, the Medical Director said the hospital does not pay salaries, but the Federal Government does through the Integrated Personnel and Pay System (IPPS).

“How can they accuse me of owing them, when they know that their salaries are paid by the Federal Government through IPPS in Abuja?”

Nurses take over doctors’ duty at UCH From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

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URSES have taken over doctors’ duties at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, following the five-week strike by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP).

The NUAHP declared a nationwide strike on May 18, two weeks after the ARD began an industrial action at UCH. At UCH yesterday, nurses and nonmedical workers were seen attending to patients.

A nurse, who pleaded for anonymity, said: “We are left with no choice, but to assist these dying patients. As nurses, we have empathy, we are all human beings, so we have to go beyond our duty here to save lives.

“The pressure has forced us to take up any duty, if that is what we can do to manage the situation and save lives. We just pray that the situation will not go on like this, something urgent must be done by the government to end the suffering of these patients.

“But for now we are doing everything humanly possible to manage the situation here.”

Speaking on the situation yesterday, the UCH NUAHP Chairman and National Deputy President (South), Olusegun Sotiloye, said nurses were rendering services within the scope of their professional callings.

“The nurses are changing dressings, attending to people who come for immunisation, and patients who could not be transferred. The nurses are working within the scope of their professional calling,” he said.

Sotiloye declared that the strike is still on, but that union leaders and the Federal Ministry of Health officials are meeting on the crisis.

He said: “There was a meeting last Tuesday called by the permanent secretary, Ministry of Health. We were told that the minister was not well, he is out of the country receiving treatment.”

“The minister of state is also not around. The permanent secretary and several directors were around.

“They met with NUAPH and we had a fruitful deliberation, the template was provided and it would be a template for the incoming minister to work on.”

•Aregbesola (second left); Salam(left), former Speakers Wale Afolabi (second right) and Adejare Bello....yesterday.

We’ve lived within our means, says Aregbesola

O

SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola yesterday said

his administration has lived within its means in trying to fulfill its financial obligation to workers.

The governor said this in his address titled: “We shall overcome” during the inauguration of the sixth House of Assembly.

He said his administration has not exposed the state unnecessarily, contrary to the claims of some people painting the present administration as financially reckless.

Aregbesola added that the present administration will stop at nothing to ensure that people enjoy life abundantly.

“The problem began in 2012 when our expenditure increased as a result of the hike in minimum wage.

“This was when we applied the increase to junior workers only.

•Governor inaugurates sixth Assembly From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Then, our total emolument rose to N2.7 billion from the N1.4billion that I met in November 2010.

“By December of that year, it hit N3.5 billion. At the same period, our statutory allocation increased marginally from N2.1 billion to N2.5 billion. By July 2013, our total emolument hit N4 billion; our statutory allocation was N2.1 billion. By then, we had extended the increase to other workers.

“The summary reveals that in the last two months of 2010, we received a net allocation of N4.2 billion and paid N3.6 billion. This left us with a net gain of N573 million from our statutory allocation.

“In 2011, we got N29.9 billion allocation and spent N25.8 billion on emolument with a net gain of

N4 billion. However, in 2012, we got N28.4 billion and expended N31.6 billion on emoluments.

“This left us, for the first time, with a deficit of N3.2 billion. The following year, 2013, our statutory allocation had dropped to N26.4 billion while our emolument rose to N36.9 billion.

“This gave us a N10.4 billion deficit. Last year, our statutory allocation reduced to N19.3 billion and by this time we were defaulting on some of our obligations on emolument, which had also dropped to N22.4 billion, but still left us with a deficit of N3 billion.

“In summary, between November 2010 and December 2014, we got a total statutory allocation of N108.3 billion and our expenditure on emolument was N120.4 billion.

“It left us with a total deficit of

N12 billion.”

Aregbesola added that, aside from expenditure on salaries, if other emoluments are to be included, the total recurrent expenditure will be N206 billion and statutory allocation N108.3 billion.

He also noted that adding other accruals from Abuja, it will add up to N176.5 billion, leaving the state with a deficit of almost N30 billion.

After the inauguration, Speaker Najeem Salaam was re-elected for a second term.

Also returned were Akintunde Adegboye (Deputy Speaker) and Timothy Owoeye (Majority Leader).

Oladejo Makinde was elected Minority Leader.

Folorunso Bamisayemi was elected Chief Whip.

Nobody can remove me, Fayose boasts

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KITI State Governor Ayo Fayose yesterday declared that nobody can impeach

him.

He described himself as a “oneman political army to defend the state from invaders”.

The governor spoke when members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) visited him.

Led by the Acting National Chairman, Uche Secondus, the PDP NWC warned the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government against supporting what it called “illegality”.

The PDP national leaders called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the ruling APC to respect the constitution and the rule of law.

They noted that the raging crisis of impeachment in the Fountain of Knowledge represents a “litmus test” for the ruling party’s democratic credentials.

Secondus was accompanied by National Secretary Wale Oladipo; National Organising Secretary Abubakar Mustapha; National Publicity Secretary Olisa Metuh and National Auditor Fatai Adeyanju.

Addressing reporters after a 25minute confidential meeting with Fayose, Secondus denied begging the APC lawmakers to back down on their impeachment plan.

The PDP boss explained that the APC and its lawmakers must obey a court order, which mandated parties in the leadership crisis rocking the Assembly to maintain sta-

•PDP national exco visits governor From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado Ekiti

tus quo ante bellum, pending the determination of the Motion of Notice before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Secondus argued that Dr. Adewale Omirin is not the Speaker of the House of Assembly, hence he (Omirin) cannot order the chief judge to constitute any panel.

He said the “gang-up” against Fayose would fail because the people are behind the governor and they are ready to defend the mandate given to him.

Describing the PDP as a “lawabiding party”, Secondus described Fayose as a “lawabiding governor”, insisting that the rule of law and the constitution must be strictly adhered to by the APC and its lawmakers.

Secondus said: “We are here in Ekiti to pay solidarity visit to our dear Governor Ayodele Fayose over the political crisis in Ekiti State.

“As you are aware, the leadership of APC and the lawmakers have ganged up to illegally remove the governor.

“The court order of April 23 given by Justice Chukwu of the Federal High Court in Abuja is still effective. As of now, Dr Adewale Omirin is not the authentic Speaker and can’t tell the chief judge to set up a panel to try Fayose.

“Even as we speak, the governor has not received any letter

from the lawmakers. We call on the Federal Government that democracy is in danger in Ekiti. We owe it a duty to protect the rule of law.

“Should they go ahead to illegally impeach the governor, the consequences will be anarchy, crisis and violence.

“PDP is law abiding and this we demonstrated by allowing democracy to grow while in control. This is a test for the APC-led Federal Government. It must ensure that the constitution is protected.

“We are not begging anybody, but our appeal has been that due process must be followed. We are warning the lawmakers to desist from their actions.

“PDP will not allow anybody to return Nigeria to autocracy.

Fayose is a performer and he should be allowed to develop this state.”

Buoyed by the visit, Fayose said Ekiti people would not tolerate the abuse of the constitution and the rule of law saying he and his supporters are “solidly on ground”.

The governor, who maintained that the court ruling on maintenance of status quo must be adhered to, reiterated his support for the rule of law.

He said if he wanted to violate the rule of law, he would have inaugurated the House of Assembly on Monday.

Fayose warned the APC and its

•Fayose

leaders to let him focus on his primary assignment of governance.

The governor, who said he is not losing any sleep on the matter, boasted that the lawmakers would fail in their bid to impeach him.

He added that the PDP is ready to play its constitutional role as the main opposition party to defend the nation’s democracy.

Fayose said: “We will not allow them to trample on the constitution. That the country is witnessing peace today is a collaborative effort between former President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP. “The PDP is united after the loss at the election and we are gradually picking the pieces.

“But we are assuring you that we are solidly on ground. You know it will get to a stage when the people will act like the constitution themselves.

“My party leaders just go home and rest. We will be on ground like the nation of Israel to protect our territory.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

Dismissed soldiers, three others arrested for ‘robbery’

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WO dismissed soldiers, Sunday Osor and Matthew Arome, with three others have been arrested by Lagos State Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) operatives for alleged armed robbery.

Osor told the police that his gang creates accident scenes for easy snatching of vehicles.

Others are Ebere John, Ikechukwu Chilaka and Ifeanyi Chukwu.

According to the police, the gang trails its target and on getting close, it hits the motorist to provoke him.

“Once the driver comes out, the gang leader will point gun at the driver, force him into their vehicle and drive off with the other vehicle.

They also pretended to be policemen or soldiers on surveillance to intimidate the driver before snatching the vehicle,” the police said.

Luck ran out on them when they robbed a woman on Igando Road, abducted and dropped her on Obadore Bridge and zoomed off with her car.

The woman reported to the police.

•From left: Ifeanyi; Osor; Arome; John and Chilaka... yesterday

By Ebele Boniface

The police recovered a Berretta pistol and one locally-made doublebarrel gun and six live ammunition.

Eight other vehicles including a Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), Toyota Highlander and Gulf car were also recovered.

Osor led the police to the arrest of others.

Osor, who said he was dismissed from the Army as Lance Corporal, said he used military uniform to de-

ceive victims.

“I help the gang to intimidate victims. I sit in our operational vehicle with army uniform and when a victim sees me, he will think that we are Task Force men. I was dismissed in 2010. I was lured into armed robbery by one Danjuma Suleiman a.k.a DJ. My wife is a teacher. When we want to snatch any car, we will first hit the car from behind, pretending it was an accident. When the victim stops and alight from her car, we start opera-

tion. I handed some of the snatched cars to a receiver at Onitsha called Ifeanyi,” he said.

Ifeanyi said: “I am from Umunze, Orumba South local government area of Anambra State. I met Sunday in Kirikiri Prison in 2013. I sell motor spare parts. The Customs seized my goods and I lost all I had.

Luckily, Sunday told me that he had contacts with a gang that could supply enough cars to me to make me recover again from my financial problem. That was how I became a

Two housewives held for drug trafficking

FOMWAN to lift the displaced

By Safiyyah Abdur-Razaq

T

N

ATIONAL Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) operatives have arrested two housewives for ingesting cocaine.

The women packed the cocaine in their underwear and inserted some in their private parts.

Their arrest, according to NDLEA, prevented them from being arrested and executed in China few weeks after the Indonesian Government executed some Nigerians for drug trafficking.

The women were found with 2.635 kilogrammes of cocaine at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, while attempting to board a Qatar Airways flight to China.

In their statements, the women said they took to the illicit trade because their husbands abandoned them.

NDLEA Airport Commander, Hamza Umar described the suspects as desperate traffickers.

Umar said: “These women are curiously desperate for ingesting drugs, packing same on their bodies and inserting in their private parts.

“The first one, Uzoma Alaka, 47, was found with 1.180kg of cocaine.

She inserted 260 grammes of cocaine in her private parts and ingested 60 wraps weighing 920 grammes.

“The second suspect, Priscilla Chukwujekwu, 45, was caught with 1.455 kilogrammes of cocaine.

She packed 59 wraps on her body, inserted one parcel weighing 1.285 kilogrammes in her private part and ingested 10 wraps weighing 170 grammes. They are both from Anambra State”.

Priscilla said she wanted to establish herself financially to take care of her children.

“I am married to a soldier but he abandoned me 10 years ago when he retired from the Army. I got married early because there was no

receiver. I have received more than three cars from the gang; I used to pay them completely. “Sunday was the one bringing vehicles to me. I went to prison over a minor case,” he said.

Arome, a driver from Olamoboro in Kogi State, claimed he was dismissed as a Lance Corporal in the Army because he fled the battlefield in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, to join his pregnant wife at home.

“They said it was AWOL,” he said.

•Priscilla... yesterday

•Uzoma... yesterday

‘

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

money for me to further my studies after my primary education.

My husband who is a retired soldier abandoned me 10 years ago.

Since then my life has been sorrowful.

“I sell female clothes and shoes to take care of my children. I met a man at the market who promised to assist me in my business by making me an importer.

“This was how we began to talk on phone. He gives me recharge cards and money to sustain myself.

It was the day I was to travel that he told me that I would take drugs to China. He took me to a hotel where I was given the drugs and 6000 dollars to buy my goods in China. I could only swallow ten wraps, so I forced some into my private part and packed others in my underwear”.

‘I swallowed 59 wraps of drugs all through the night because of 6,000 dollars. I also packed some in my underwear and one in my private part. It was a terrible experience. I feel so sad that I have to end up this way as a Christian’

’

Uzoma said her husband abandoned her with seven children, adding: “I sell female bags and shoes to sustain myself and my children. My husband left me in 2005 and since then, I have been facing several challenges. I took loan to travel to China and in the process; I incurred huge debt which compounded my prob-

lems.

“At a point, I had no money for food, school fees and even house rent. This was what made me to smuggle drugs. I swallowed 59 wraps of drugs all through the night because of 6,000 dollars. I also packed some in my underwear and one in my private part. It was a terrible experience. I feel so sad that I have to end up this way as a Christian.”

NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Ahmadu Giade said the action of the women was disgraceful.

According to him, “it is good that the drugs were detected here by our officials because China has capital punishment for drug trafficking.

This arrest saved them from death and the country from embarrassment. Their action is utterly disgraceful because as mothers, they ought to be of good example to their children.”

HE Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), Lagos State Chapter has concluded arrangements to donate materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Amirah (female president), Dr Sariyu Ashiru disclosed it yesterday during a briefing on the FOMWAN Week.

Ashiru urged the public to donate materials, both in cash and kind to the displaced persons.

According to her, the association would soon hold a special prayer for the nation.

She said: “Since we have just changed to a new government, we need to pray for the new administration tread the right path.”

With Service to Humanity: Path to Jannah as the theme, Ashiru said the week-long activities would include symposium, visitation, prayers, special jumat service and advocacy at each local government.

•Dr Sanusi... yesterday

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

CITYBEATS Synagogue: Coroner to give verdict July 8 T

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

HE Lagos Coroner investigating the collapse of a building on September 12, last year, at the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Ikotun, Lagos will give its verdict on July 8.

The Coroner court presided over by Chief Magistrate Oyetade Komolafe announced this yesterday after parties made their final submissions.

About 115 persons, mostly tourists from South Africa, lost their lives when the six-storey building,

By Adebisi Onanuga

which served as guest house for visitors, collapsed.

The Lagos State government had set up the inquest to ascertain the cause of the collapse and identify the victims.

The Founder of the church, Pastor Temitope Joshua, had initially linked the tragedy to a strange aircraft hovering above the

building shortly before it collapsed.

The church released a video on social media, which showed an aircraft hovering around the building before its collapse.

The coroner took evidences from many witnesses, counsel of the government, trustees of the church and professionals in the construction industry.

Joshua declined the

coroner’s invitation to appear in person before the court.

Instead, the cleric, through his counsel, Olalekan Ojo, filed an application in which he sought the order of the high court setting aside his invitation.

He accused the coroner of delving into areas outside its jurisdiction.

Joshua told the coroner court that he was not under

any obligation to testify before the coroner.

The high court presided over by Justice Lateefa Okunnu ruled that the Coroner had the power to summon anybody and corporate body it deemed fit to assist it in the conduct of the inquest.

But the cleric appealed the ruling. The matter is still pending before the Court of Appeal.

The Lagos State govern-

ment had insisted that the inquest must be guided by Section 40 of the coroner’s law which bestows on it the role to find out who the deceased are, when and how they died.

The government had submitted that since the issue of who the deceased are and when they died had been resolved by the report prepared by the state’s Chief Medical Director, Prof John Obafunwa.

Woman led Ikorodu banks robbery, says eyewitness •From left: Jumoke Airuoyo; Olubumi Obadan; Pastor Godwin Obadan; Pastor Mojisola Ojo; Pastor Felix Fadele; Pastor John Airuoyo; Deaconess Abiodun Daudu; Mrs Lydia Idowu and some nurses at the opening and dedication of a maternity centre donated by The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Overcomers’ Lagos Parish, Ikorodu, Lagos.

By Adebisi Onanuga

A

WOMAN led Monday’s robbery of two banks in Ikorodu, Lagos, it was learnt yesterday.

Two persons died in the incident.

The woman was seen giving orders to her colleagues after leaving one of the banks.

The Nation learnt that the robbers snatched two vehicles, including a Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and drove towards Ijede.

An eyewitness said the lorry driver had just parked by the road side.

He alighted and was heading towards a canteen near the bank when he sighted the robbers coming and shooting into the air.

The driver turned and made for his vehicle but was shot before he could start it.

The other victim was trying to leave the troubled area when he was caught in a crossfire between the robbers and police.

The police were said to have been delayed by traffic snarl caused by speed breakers.

They were coming from Itamaga to where one of the robberies took place at Omitoro.

Police spokesperson Kenneth Nwosu, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP), said the police were able to foil one of the robberies.

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

SCENES OF THE TANKER FIRE IN LAGOS... YESTERDAY

•Some of the burnt vehicles... yesterday •The burnt trailer... yesterday

•Raging fire inside the drainage... yesterday

•Onlookers surrounded the burnt tanker... yesterday PHOTOS: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE; OMOSEHIN MOSES AND ADEJO DAVID

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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NEWS Police kill suspected robbers in botched attack on herdsmen From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

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HE Delta State Police Command has said it shot dead two suspected robbers after a botched attack on some herdsmen.

Police spokesperson Tina Kalu, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), confirmed the incident yesterday in Asaba, the state capital.

She said the four hoodlums attacked herdsmen in a bush at Okpara waterside, Ethiope East Local Government Area.

Kalu said the police station at Isiokolo, the local government’s headquarters, got a distress call from a man simply identified as Alhaji Ibrahim, that some gunmen attacked his herdsmen.

The spokesperson said operatives from the police station rushed to the scene.

She said the hoodlums alighted from their operational vehicle and engaged the police in a shootout.

According to her, the gunmen fled into the bush when the police nearly overpowered them.

Kalu said the police pursued the suspects into the bush, where two of them were shot.

The others escaped, she added.

The spokesperson said the two injured suspects died on the way to the hospital.

Items recovered from the suspects include six cut-tosize guns, two Nokia handsets and a Honda Accord salon with number plate (Lagos) SE858AAA. Kalu said the police had begun a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.

Akwa Ibom monarchs to support NDDC

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EMBERS of the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Traditional Rulers of Oil Mineral Producing Communities of Nigeria (TROMPCON) have assured the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of their continued support and cooperation.

The monarchs expressed their position on Monday at a special meeting with NDDC’s Managing Director, Sir Bassey Dan-Abia, and other senior officials of the commission.

The meeting, which was hosted by the Paramount Ruler of Onna Local Government Area, Edidem Akpabio Ukpa, reviewed the activities of the NDDC over the years and passed a vote of confidence in the board and management.

Edidem Ukpa, who is also the President of Eket Senatorial District Traditional Rulers Council, noted that TROMPCON played a key role in the establishment of the NDDC. According to him, it is its duty to always support the agency.

The monarch said the challenges facing the NDDC were enormous, adding that all stakeholders in the region should support it to succeed.

Dan-Abia acknowledged the pioneering role of TRAMPCON in the establishment of the commission.

Police parade 162 suspected cultists, 29 ‘robbers’ in Rivers T

HE Rivers State Police Command has said it killed 13 suspected criminals in gun battles last month.

Its spokesman Ahmed K. Mohammed, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), spoke yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital, during the parade of over 200 suspects, including four women, at the Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

The suspects are being held for various crimes, including cultism, robbery and kidnapping.

•Nine ‘robbers’, two ‘cultists’, two ‘kidnappers’ killed From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

The police said 162 suspects were arrested for alleged cultism and related activities; seven for alleged kidnap and 29 for alleged robbery.

They also said nine suspected robbers, two suspected kidnappers and two “cultists” were killed in a gun battle within the period.

The police said they foiled five kidnap attempts and rescued five kidnap victims.

A statement yesterday said 34 firearms, 174 ammunition/cartridges, 15 stolen vehicles, four tricycle/motorcycles and N296,760, including N10,000 suspected fake currencies and various shapes and sizes of charms were recovered from the hoodlums.

The suspects were arrested mainly from Rumuekini, East-West Road, both in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area and Chokocho, in Etche Local Government Area.

The police hailed the public for its cooperation, which it said led to the arrest of the suspects.

The command called for more assistance for the police.

It reiterated its commitment to ridding the state of hoodlums.

The command warned criminals to have a change of heart or face its wrath.

•Former Lagos State Governor’s wife Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (left) greeting Guest Speaker Pastor Ituah Ighodalo at the eighth Annual Praise & Worship Concert Berachah 2015 at the Haven Event Place, GRA; Ikeja, Lagos...yesterday. With them are Founder, The Counselling Ambassador Organisation and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy & Mineral Resources, Mrs. Iyabo Regina Obasa and Mr Muyiwa Obasa, an engineer.

APC okays Akwa Ibom tribunal’s relocation to Abuja

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HE Akwa Ibom State All Progressives Congress (APC) has approved the movement of the Elections Petitions Tribunal from Uyo, the state capital, to Abuja.

The tribunal was set up to look into petitions from aggrieved contestants in the March 28 National Assembly and April 11 governorship and Houses of Assembly elections.

It was learnt that as from today, the tribunal would be conducting its business in Abuja, for security reasons.

APC’s state Chairman, Dr. Amadu Attai, backed the relocation.

The chairman noted that the atmosphere in the state was not conducive for legislative business.

He said the party was satisfied with the decision, adding that APC hoped to get unbiased judgment at the tribunal.

Attai said: “When we went to the tribunal in Akwa Ibom,

•PDP cries foul From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

we were often harassed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Even, the tribunal members did not live where they were supposed to live. Some of them lived in the accommodation provided by government officials. But now, we are confident that we would get a good judgment.”

On the burden of sponsoring witnesses to Abuja, since APC is the petitioner in the cases before the tribunal, Dr. Attai said such would pose no serious problem.

The chairman said sponsoring its witnesses was akin to the way the party financed its campaigns during the elections.

But the state’s PDP Chairman Paul Ekpo said it appeared only the tribunals in

PDP-controlled states were being ordered back to Abuja.

The chairman argued that the movement had caused confusion in the party’s activities.

He said: “The PDP did not set up the tribunal. The Judiciary set up the tribunal. But what we are shocked and surprised about is that the tribunal, which has been doing its work without any disturbance from the party or anybody here, is suddenly being ordered to move Abuja.

“Again, you note that prior to this, APC was telling everybody that when Muhammadu Buhari is sworn in as President, the tribunal would be asked to move to Abuja. When they move to Abuja, the election will be annulled. But is Buhari not the President of the country?

“PDP ruled this country before. There are states that were in opposition. Even Lagos, which they are using to mount an attack on us, was an opposi-

tion state. The PDP never destabilised the functionality of such states. I keep saying that Buhari is a statesman and the Judiciary is the last hope of the common man. If the Judiciary begins to show bias for one party, I wonder what kind of democracy we are going to practise here.

“So, we condemn that and we pray that the President or the Chief Justice of the Federation, or whoever set up the tribunal, should allow it to stay at its original place so that the people, especially witnesses, would not have to travel to Abuja to make presentations. The tribunal should be allowed to do its work.

“Why do you move the tribunal to Abuja? There is also a similar scenario in Abia State. So, why all the PDP states? If you want to move all the tribunals to Abuja, then do so; don’t select the tribunals.”

Discordant tunes trail Rivers CJ Okocha’s appointment

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IXED reactions have continued to trail the swearing-in of Justice Daisy Okocha as the Acting Chief Judge (CJ) of Rivers State.

Justice Okocha was at the centre of the CJ crisis that led to the closure of courts in the past one year.

She was sworn in on Monday by Governor Nyesom Wike at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

While some lawyers, rights activists and civil society groups supported the inauguration of Justice Okocha, oth-

From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

ers noted that her appointment was too hasty and did not follow due process.

A Port Harcourt resident, Ezekiel Amiofori, said the reopening of the courts was commendable because it would enable people with cases to have them heard.

But he said Wike was too fast in appointing the Acting CJ. Amiofori said he had no illfeelings about the appointment, adding that it should

have followed due process to avoid the mistakes of the past administration.

He said: “It is indeed a commendable development that the courts have been reopened after nearly one year.

But I have issues with the way the appointment of the new CJ came. It should have been allowed to pass through due process of law to avoid the impunity former Governor Chibuike Amaechi’s leadership was accused of.”

The spokesman for Civil Liberty Organisation (CLO), Livingstone Wechie, hailed

Wike for fulfilling one of his campaign promises of reopening the courts and appointing a CJ. The activist urged the governor to set up a commission of enquiry to investigate the Judiciary crisis in the state with the view to bringing the culprits to justice and serve as deterrent to others.

He said: “What happened in the state Judiciary is indescribable. There is joy in the hearts of Rivers people over the reopening of the courts, nearly one year after they have been under lock and key.”

Ayade abolishes anti-forestation task force From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

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ROSS River State Governor Ben Ayade has disbanded the anti-forestation task force.

The task force was the brain child of former Governor Liyel Imoke to check illegal logging of forest reserves.

A statement yesterday in Calabar, the state capital, by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Mr Freedom Ejom, said offenders would be summarily prosecuted.

Also, the state’s weekly executive council meetings have been scrapped. In its place would be a monthly meeting, except for emergency situations, the statement said.

The governor explained that from this month, his administration would struggle to pay workers’ salaries on the 25th of each month, from internally generated revenue.

He said revenue-generating Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are to immediately forward a detailed list of defaulters to the Ministry of Justice for necessary action.

According to him, all buildings within the Calabar metropolis, which are located on flood plains and without approvals, are to be relocated or demolished.

On the continued strike by the state’s chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Ayade called for a “meaningful dialogue with the leadership of the union with a view to amicably resolve the impasse and the strike called off as soon as possible”.

Ijaw leader lambasts Dokubo-Asari From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

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ROMINENT Ijaw youth leader and Niger Delta activist, Famous Daunemigha has asked his compatriot, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, to stop inciting youths against the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

He told Asari-Dokubo to join other former militants to work with the nation’s new leadership.

Daunemuagha was the Bayelsa State governorship candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in 2011 and is known for arresting and handing over to the police some of the thugs who stoned Buhari in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, during the 2011 presidential campaign.

Daunemigha, who was the Vice-President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) when Asari-Dokubo was the President of the council, said the former militant leader’s recent ranting was empty because the region would no longer be a battleground for his selfish benefit.

On the hue and cry over the December deadline for the Presidential Amnesty granted Niger Delta former militants, the youth leader said former Dr Goodluck Jonathan was President for six years but could not review the date.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

Life

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The Midweek Magazine E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Text only: 08023058761

Celebrating 60 years of ‘nourishing goodness’ – PAGE 18

Honour well deserved

•

– PAGE 18

‘They shot my mother; mother; she fights on through me’ ‘Take your campaigns to relevant audience’

– PAGE 47

‘When I was growing up, our house was full of people who came to her because she would listen and she would help.

Even though she was threatened and jailed, that didn’t stop her from campaigning. She believed people had a right to democracy and as a wife of the symbol she was bound to speak up’ SEE STORY ON PAGE 17

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

On the eve of a film about how she lost both parents in Nigeria’s political turmoil, Hafsat AbiolaCostello tells MARGARETTE DRISCOLL why she is battling to help women in her homeland.

‘They shot my mother, she fights on through me’

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Y the time she was 23, Hafsat Abiola-Costello had lost both her parents to political violence in Nigeria. Her mother, Kudirat Abiola, was shot in 1996, the day before she was due to fly out to Hafsat’s graduation in America. Two years later Hafsat’s father, Moshood Abiola, died in the prison.

Moshood, a businessman, had won the country’s first democratic election in 1993 but was prevented by the military government from assuming power. Officially, he died of a heart attack but his family never believed it: he collapsed after drinking tea that may have been poisoned. “My father loved people and had faith in people. My mother, too,” says Hafsat.

“She was just the nicest person. She was married to this wealthy, powerful man but she loved her family and she was raised in a culture of sharing, so his wealth was only useful in so far as you could use it to help others…

“When I was growing up, our house was full of people who came to her because she would listen and she would help. Even though she was threatened and jailed, that didn’t stop her from campaigning, she believed people had a right to democracy and as a wife of the symbol she was bound to speak up.”

Nearly 20 years on, Hafsat has taken up her parents’ mantle and is running a campaign to educate and empower women in Nigeria.

She is also a member of the Ogun State cabinet, responsible for the fulfilment of millennium goals in education and development in the area. Moving back to Nigeria, four years ago was one of the hardest decision that she has ever had to make as it entailed leaving her two young children – Khali, 8, and Annabella – 6 in Brussels with their father Nick Costello, a British diplomat.

She visits as often as she can and intends to bring the children to Nigeria for a month over the summer, but for the foreseeable future their family life is stretched across two continents.

“Some friends were so shocked, they thought my priority should be my own kids but I thought: if I’m going to be a public servant, I can’t have this traditional mindset,” she says.

“I can only do what I’m doing because I have the nicest husband. When I’m coming back, he starts counting down the days with the children and explaining how long I’ll be around, so they feel ‘Mummy’s around and she’s going to read us bedtime stories and help with dinner.’ Nick creates a stable environment in which we can all be happy. A lot of husbands would set up the guilt trip, making me a villain, but he never does, so I feel very lucky.”

Hafsat’s move into politics, her dramatic family history and the story of Nigeria’s fragile pro-democracy movement are chronicled in ‘The Supreme Price’ a film by the American director Joanna Lipper that opens in Britain tomorrow (thesupremeprice.com). It won the prize for best documentary at the Africa International Film Festival and has been shown at other festivals round the world. The New York Times says it “shapes one country’s

•The late Mrs Kudirat Abiola

•Mrs Abiola-Costello

ADVOCACY recent history into an accessible and tragic family drama.”

Even today, with a democratic government in place, Nigeria isn’t safe. The Islamist group- Boko Haram has rampaged through the north of the country abducting girls, most notably the 276 schoolgirls who were seized in April last year. Sexism is still rife- only a tiny minority of politicians are women and even Hafsat’s brother regards it as a step too far to imagine a woman president.

“With every step forward that women take, especially if they take many steps forward, some men may feel threatened so there is a backlash,” says Hafsat. “It’s of no surprise that the girls who were abducted were in school preparing to take an exam to go to university in an area where only four per cent of girls go to university. So it’s a backlash, a sense of being threatened, that some men feel and it’s not rational.”

As for danger, she was afraid when she first visited Nigeria after her parents’ deaths – “I didn’t trust the police or the army” – but she

has had to take danger in her stride. “Everybody in Nigeria is in danger in one way or another,” she says.

“If you are ill or have an accident and you have to be rushed to the hospital, your life is in danger because you could… find the medicines have not been restocked or there are no doctors or the doctors are on strike.

“Going to work or having a baby in London is not a dangerous activity but because of the dysfunction, these are dangerous things in Nigeria – simple, normal things put people’s lives at risk. It’s no good sitting at home hoping to be safe, we have to go out and change the system. The country want change, the important thing for me is how we give women a voice in that change.”

She named the campaigning group she has founded, The Kudirat Initiative for Democracy, after her mother. Three years after Kudirat was killed, Hafsat was able to visit Nigeria briefly when the military government gave way to democracy. She slept in her mother’s bedroom surrounded by her things. Nothing had been moved, her mothers clothes still hung in the wardrobe.

It was, not surprisingly, an emotional homecoming. “We should have realised her phone was tapped, that she was being tracked,” says her daughter.

“I decided then that if in killing my mother they were trying to silence her, her voice would live through me. Those were giant shoes to fill but her voice would not be silent one more day.”

•Culled from New York Times

Christie’s auctions Ofili’s Holy Virgin Mary

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HRISTIE’S will offer Chris Ofili’s painting The Holy Virgin Mary (1996) at its upcoming June 30 sale in London with an estimate of about $2.3 million.

According to the artnet price database, this is the first time this work has come to auction.

The painting is being sold by Australian collector David Walsh, owner of the Museum of New and Old Art (MONA) in Tasmania. Walsh purchased the work from British collector Charles Saatchi who bought it directly from the artist. But it is most famous for the furore it incited when it was featured in the 1999 Sensation show at the Brooklyn Museum featuring art from Saatchi’s holdings, when New York’s then-mayor Rudy Guiliani criticised the work as “sick” because of Ofili’s incorporation of elephant dung in a portrait of a holy icon.

AUCTION Conservative media outlets eagerly followed suit. A Daily News headline at the time stated: ‘B’klyn Gallery of horror. Gruesome museum show stirs controversy.’ The report inaccurately described the painting as being ‘splattered with elephant dung.’ In an act of protest, a retired teacher smeared white paint across the work in 1999, for which he received a $250 penalty.

Giuliani and the City of New York brought a court case against the Brooklyn Museum, threatening to cut city funding, and even threatened the institution with eviction. The museum and its director Arnold Lehman fought back with a First Amendment federal lawsuit, which it eventually won.

‘I don’t feel as though I have to defend it,” Ofili told New York Times reporter Carol Vogel

in a 1999 interview. ‘The people who are attacking this painting are attacking their own interpretation, not mine. You never know what’s going to offend people, and I don’t feel it’s my place to say anymore.’

Ofili’s work was the subject of a much-lauded retrospective at the New Museum this past winter (October 29–Februay 1). His record at auction, according to the artnet price database, is roughly $2.9 million (£1.9 million), which was achieved at a Christie’s London sale, also oddly, on June 30 (the same date as the upcoming sale), though this sale was five years ago in 2010. Given all the hype and controversy surrounding the portrait of the Virgin Mary, the work could potentially sell for far more than the estimate. And despite all the controversy, as for the much lauded recent New Museum show, Ofili has stood the test of time.

•The Holy Virgin Mary

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

17

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Eki Eboigbe is the first woman chairperson of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), Lagos Chapter and Creative Director/CEO, Entertainment Bus-Stop Ltd, an Arts and Events RENAISSANCE Consultancy. She is also the initiator of YETI (Young EduTainment Initiative), a community service project for young people. She speaks with Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME on her activities at NANTAP, challenges and dream for the association, among other issues.

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OW has NANTAP fared under your leadership?

It is the grace of God that makes the difference and with all humility I will say I have not fared badly. NANTAP Lagos has been the flagship of the association, so what I needed to do was to build on the success of the past executive council of the Chapter. However, there was an urgent need for us to expand the platform by creating activities that will encourage inclusion and participation from members, enhance corporate and government leverage, which will catapult the association visibility in the mind eye of the local and international audience. With this mission in mind and after due consultation with creative eggheads and like minds, we were able to articulate the following programmes, while improving on existing projects, such as like the yearly celebration of the World Theatre Day. Capacity building and empowerment for members: At the monthly Congress meeting, we have invited experienced professionals from different fields to inspire motivate, enlighten and challenge many of our members to re-focus, restrategise and aim higher in our chosen specialisation, in a platform we tagged ‘Business talkshop’ Health Care: Our dream of increasing ‘Celebration nights’ to reduce our ‘candle light processions’ was enhanced when we successfully flagged off our quarterly health check up programme. Our goal is to detect and contain early enough, symptoms that could become terminal. We are presently working out modality to register members into the health scheme that has been open to entertainers by the Federal government.

Stakeholders Parley: Our mission to leverage Corporate Nigeria and government agencies created this quarterly parley, a platform where artist and corporate Nigerians engage in conversation aimed at evolving a beneficial partnership towards sustainable growth of the entertainment industry.

World Theatre Day (WTD): A global celebration, is always an opportunity for NANTAP, Lagos to advocate for project policy directions for the Nigeria Arts and Culture

•Eboigbe

‘My stewardship at NANTAP’ THEATRE sector. Each year, our chosen Themes align with the universal message, while reflecting our generic concern: in 2013 when I was elected NANTAP Chairman, I felt that the D-day should henceforth be used as an avenue to institutionalize ideas or project, in line with my mission to enhance visibility for the association, so the theme Sustainable environment in reaction to Climate Change was the choice for 2013, part of commemorating the day, we planted 10 trees at the newly constructed Queen Amina’s garden at the entrance C of National Arts Theatre. The trees seedlings was donated by LASPARK and Management of the National Theatre, thru its D.G, Mallam Kabir Yusuf welcome the gesture and promptly tag it the ‘1st Entertainment trees in the world’. The idea to plant the trees was to also align with the vision of Lagos state government policy on environment, while I totally agree with Nelson Henderson that says ‘The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit ‘ Our theme for WTD 2014 was The past, the present, our Fu-

ture: the renaissance of Nigerian theatre in the 21st Century and the collective of Nigerian Artistes in Lagos embarked on an Advocacy walk from NTA Television Station in Victoria Island to the National Theatre, Iganmu.

We also develop project titled Live Theatre as a re- orientation tool: This project create platform to showcase our objectives, as the moral conscience of the society, while propagating the policies of the Lagos State Government, in the area of intervention in the disconnects between government policies, as well as buy-in acceptance of the populace.

Through drama skits and workshops, one of which was the EBOLA sensitisation talks with artists/para-society Relocation of Secretariat: During my leadership of NANTAP Lagos, we successfully relocated our office to a more befitting space inside the National Theatre. Once again, many thanks to the Management of National Theatre As the first female chairman of NANTAP in Lagos, what major challenges have you faced and how did you tackle them?

The first challenge was the usual, encountering people set in their ways and not willing to embrace change. The second was that am a WOMAN, leading hybrid of creative individuals and the third was the task of inspiring the balancing of celebrating official title with the responsibilities of the call for selfless service.To tackle this, needed calculated calmness, wisdom from above and a lot of consultation with elders and stakeholders. I tell you the truth, holding this position for the three years tenure has matured me; it has been an interesting added value.

What are the projects you have executed so far?

Capacity Building and Empowerment for Members, Health Care, Stakeholders Parley, World Theatre Day (WTD) 2013, 2014 & 2015, and the relocation of Secretariat.

You have an impending programme before the end of the year. What is it and how do you intend to carry it out?

As I round off my tenure as Chairman, we are planning the celebration of a post-WTD 2015, which we could not mark in March due to Nigeria Election activities, it is schedule for June 26th at the banquet hall of the National Theatre, with the theme paper presentation and recognising, celebrating and giving honours to distinguished Arts and Culture Ambassadors whose works have contributed towards leaving a lasting legacy for younger generations.

Our 2015 celebrator is the delectable Mrs. Bolanle AustenPeters, Managing Director Terra Kulture and other heroes behind the scene will be awarded culture ambassadors and certified thespians. Our 2015 theme is Theatre and conflict resolution in the 21st Century.

In what unique way have you created incentives for your members in Lagos?

NANTAP as a non-profit association has a generic incentives for her members, during my tenure, we constituted a welfare committee to cater for members’ bereavements, celebration and business. A token is donated toward that.

What is your dream for the association before you leave office?

My dream is that the vision of a 200-seater Community Theatre in every local government areas in Lagos comes to reality. Even though we have articulated in a detailed proposal and delivered to the Lagos State government, which we hope, will be implemented on the platform of the public/private partnership. This venue will also be used as viewing centers for films and it is aimed at complementing other existing platforms. The launching of NANTAP Lagos endowments funds that will enable artistes access a collateral free funding for productions, aid sustainable income and increase audience participation and building a permanent secretariat for the association.

Head Start School wins Peak Art Challenge

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EAD Start Private School, Ire-Akari, Isolo, Lagos has won the 2015 Peak Milk Vision Nigeria Art Challenge for schools. It beat nine others to win a cash prize of N250,000; Deby Link Nursery and Primary School and Well Spring College got N150,000 and N100,000 for coming second and third. The 62 schools which participated got N50,000 each as consolation prize, each of the 10 teachers that represented the top 10 schools got a Galaxy tab.

The art competition, held at the University of Lagos Sport Complex, was organised by Peak Milk to help pupils create mind-blowing innovations from scraps, such as Peak cans, tins and sachets.

Marketing Director, Friesland Campina WAMCO Mr Tarang Gupta described the children as the future leaders, adding that more of Peak Milk would help them achieve their dreams.

By Sampson Unamka

COMPETIITION He said “Dream for your future, peak will also be there”.

Head Start won with an entry that captures a beautiful space station made out of Peak cans, tins and sachets.

According to the art teacher of Head Start, Mr Solomon Amu, who represented the school, the choice of a space station was to look into the future of the country. “We see Nigeria in years to come have a space station of its own since the developed world they have their own, we now thought of an idea, that we needed it, that we can go and see the galaxy of various planets, and they would like a station like this to be in Nigeria for them to go for vacation,” he said.

He said it took his pupils three weeks to create the art work, noting that this is the first time the school is coming first in an art competition in the state.

•Miss Chika Mbewu (centre) who represented Head Start School receiving the cheque from the organisers at the event.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

• A scene during a performance at the event

• Yemi Alade

Friesland Campina WAMCO has marked 60 years of nourishing Nigerians through its brand-Peak Milk. OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA was at a theatrical event that captured the metamorphosis of the brand in the six decades.

Celebrating 60 years of ‘nourishing goodness’

“T

ONIGHT is special! Let’s capture some magical moments, let’s create happy memories and let’s surround ourselves with laughter and friendship.’’

This statement by Friesland Campina WAMCO Managing Director, Mr Rahul Colaco, set the tone for an evening of classic entertainment to mark the 60 years of Peak in the country. It was a night of varieties. There was comedy by ace entertainer, Gordons, dance drama and presentation of “the foremost symbols and connotation of the Peak elements. The colorful milestone celebration of 60 years of nourishing goodness was held inside at the Zinnia Hall, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

It was an exciting journey into the visual world of Peak, exploring the various symbols on the pack-River, Mountain, Canoe and Palm Tree. The River represents transportation of goodness to West Africa, Nigeria; Mountain implores people to reach for the peak of one’s dream; Canoe propels to the future while the Palm tree is resilient, no matter the storm, hence everybody should be resilient no matter what. This

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

ANNIVERSARY pulsating and captivating story was presented in a fascinating piece of musical drama.

Guests were also taken through the story of Peak Yesterday, Today and the Future of helping Nigerians achieve their dreams.

There were also the inspiring stories of those who came, saw and conquered with Peak.

The story of Madam Ajoke Okusanya, who rose from a petty trader to a key business partner as well as the amazing story of popular female artiste, Yemi Alade, were major highlights. Yemi Alade, the sensational Johnny crooner, won the first edition of Peak Talent Show in 2009 and told the world she would never have become a musician without the Peak Talent Show platform. ‘’I actually wanted to get my B.Sc, get a job, settle down and live a private life until the Peak Talent Show came up and the rest as you can see is history”, she said.

The Marketing Director, Mr. Tarang

Gupta said that the introduction of Peak in Nigeria 60 years ago gave the people “an experienced of a new beginning with sharper minds, stronger body and matchless opportunities to bring out the best in them and reach for their peak. This is the inspiring story of Peak in Nigeria.”

He said the story of the Peak brand is about Nigeria and the Nigerian people. “It’s your story, the story of the generations before you and the generations that will come after you. This is the celebration of our great past, happy present and brighter future.’’

“To Peak, there’s greatness in everyone.

It lives in us. All we have to do is believe in it, work hard at it and we will surely achieve it. Peak at 60 is a celebration of your story, my story, our story and the story of our great nation, Nigeria.” He concluded.

The event was well attended by consumers from all walks of life including top personalities from the media, children and notable celebrities led by former Nigeria international and Olympic Gold medalist, Kanu Nwankwo.

Colaco described Peak as “a truly Nigerian iconic brand’’. In his opening speech, Colaco expressed happiness and appreciation of Ni-

gerian’s loyalty to Peak milk and “particularly those who have come from far and near for the celebration of 60 years of nourishing Nigeria with quality dairy nutrition.’’

He said, “Since the presence of Peak in the Nigerian market, the brand has continued to grow despite several changes in the market.

Peak’s success is attributed to two things: First, a singular focus, which is to nourish Nigerians with quality dairy nutrition in order to reach their Peak. Second, continually exploring ways to stand out of the crowded shelf and touch our consumers through every stage of their lives. Peak has won industry recognition as an innovative and trendsetting brand that delivers superior dairy nutrition across life-stages. The Brand’s positive results and success is about connecting with our Consumers, supporting our Business Partners and communities to pursuing their aspirations and reach for their Peak!

“Every Nigerian grew up with Peak; Nigerians are still growing with Peak and without Nigerians, there won’t be 60 years of Peak milk, the iconic brand that has served the good people of Nigeria from generation to generation,” he said.

The Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL) has held its 23rd Leader Without Title (LWT) leadership tribute colloquium in honour of renowned actress Mrs Taiwo Ajai-Lycett. It was held at the CVL building on Victoria Island, Lagos, last Tuesday, OLATUNDE ODEBIYI writes.

Honour for an ageless actress

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MINENT actress Mrs Taiwo AjaiLycett stood tall as she was honoured by the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL) for her contributions to the growth of entertain-

ment.

Mrs Ajai-Lycett turned 70 on February 3; she was celebrated in line with CVL tradition last Tuesday. The theme was Music, Culture and National Image: New Ways of Projecting Power.

CVL initiated the Leadership Tribute Colloquium to honour outstanding leaders who are over 70 for their special contributions in the sector where they worked.

CVL founder and host, Prof Pat Utomi described the celebrator as a vibrant, brave, gracious, truly committed, passionate and a woman who believes that her world defines the world.

He added that she is someone to be emulated adding that she is hard working and focused on delivering value.

Mrs Joke Silva who is a renowned actress said the celebrator is one of those incredible, articulate and intellectual artistes. She described her as an amazing performer and a true entertainer that is dedicated and that she is proud of her.

She stressed the need to keep engaging government on the needs of the industry adding that those in the industry should acquire more knowledge and ensure content in what they are doing.

Mrs Ajai-Lycett said life has just started at 74

• Prof Utomi and Mrs Ajai-Lycett at the event

saying she feels elated and honoured to have the wonderful gathering. She noted that it is special to be honoured for what she has been doing for almost a life time.

“This tells me that people appreciate what I

have been doing; I can see that people have so much affection and they give me recognition.

I think it is wonderful and I am on top of the world. I thank everybody for coming as you can see it is a full house in spite of the national

crises. So many people turned out and I was surprised, I was stunned,” she added.

She urged upcoming artistes in the entertainment industry to ensure hard work and continue to work on themselves all the time.

“I wake up every day in the morning as an actor even at 74, I am still working. I have to do all my practices and I have to make sure that my acting skills are sharp, my body is flexible, my voice is clear and I have to work.

“So it is constantly working on yourself so that your audience and the people you meet are always getting the best from you. It is important to respect the people you work for and give them the best that you can,” she said.

She stressed that government must create an enabling environment for culture to arise and it must be educated in the arts and appreciate it. “They must have an understanding of what the art can do to help them govern this nation even better.

She urged actors in the country to celebrate and be proud of themselves adding that ‘our own people can be as good as anyone in the world.’

“All we need to do is to have a bit more confidence in ourselves and don’t think that anything we have from abroad is better than what we have here; our culture is number one in the world and am proud to tell you that.

“There is a big gap between acting in my younger days and now because in that time we were well trained but now everybody thinks they can act and they don’t think you can learn to act, they think they have talent, yes you have to have talent but talent has to be polished.

“Acting till today is easy for me because I have acted all my life and I improve on myself every year. I am working on myself and it is getting easier and clearer,” she said.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Baba Sala at 80

• Nigeria’s King of Comedy attains a landmark age S Nigeria’ s burgeoning entertainment industry continues to grow from strength to strength, those individuals whose talent and determination helped to establish it must never be forgotten. One of the most prominent of these distinguished people is Moses Olaiya Adejumo, MON, alias Lamidi Sanni Oropo, Baba Sala, who recently celebrated his eightieth birthday.

Olaiya’s life and career accurately reflect the trajectory of the entertainment scene in the country. Although he worked as a Sanitary Inspector, he did not permit his love of acting, music and comedy to lie fallow, and took up these pursuits after closing hours.

In 1964, Olaiya led a highlife group called the Federal Rhythm Dandies whose membership included a young Sunday Adeniyi, who would rise to global fame as the juju maestro, King Sunny

A

‘Nigeria can celebrate this remarkable man by seeking to ensure that it creates an entertainment industry worthy of his successors. The country failed to heed the warning implicit in Olaiya’s own bitter experiences with piracy; it must now take decisive steps to ensure that those who attempt to profit from the creativity of others pay a high price for their actions’

Ade. In 1969, he became a full-time stage actor and comedian, setting up the Moses Olaiya International Alawada Theatre Limited. The group toured extensively and visited many towns in Nigeria’s south-west, as well as the United Kingdom and the United States.

Olaiya was quick to exploit the potential of television when WNTV/WNBS was set up in the Western Region, and his Yoruba-language comedies were extremely popular for decades. He was also a pioneer in the emerging movie industry and was one of the first producers of indigenous-language films. Some of the most notable were Orun Mooru (1982), Aare Agbaye (1983), Mosebolatan (1985) and Agba Man (1992).

There can be no doubting the extent of Olaiya’s talent. Like Charlie Chaplin, he was a natural comedian who could provoke laughter without saying a word. His trademark props – enormous bow-tie, gigantic spectacles, over-large shoes, alarm clock and pipe – combined with his hilarious demeanour to create an unforgettable character that was synonymous with entertainment for much of the seventies and the eighties.

Unlike many of his successors who are apparently unable to draw upon their cultural heritage for much of their material, Olaiya was solidly rooted in his culture, and able to exploit its Christian, Muslim and traditionalist elements, even though he was himself a Christian. His nearly five decades in the industry are untainted by scandal or improper behaviour. It is no surprise that he was

made a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) by the Obasanjo administration in 1978.

Not surprisingly for one who was always at the cutting-edge of the entertainment industry, Olaiya has also had to endure many of its shortcomings as well.

His Orun Mooru was so heavily pirated that it nearly drove him to bankruptcy, given the huge loans he had taken to make the film. Many of his television comedies are lost to history, no thanks to the lack of an effective archival system in the television sub-sector. It is doubtful if he receives royalties for his films that are still shown.

Nigeria can celebrate this remarkable man by seeking to ensure that it creates an entertainment industry worthy of his successors. The country failed to heed the warning implicit in Olaiya’s own bitter experiences with piracy; it must now take decisive steps to ensure that those who attempt to profit from the creativity of others pay a high price for their actions.

Films, television programmes and other intellectual property must be properly stored for the entertainment of future generations; it is depressing that the works of Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and other foreign comedians who existed decades before Olaiya can still be found.

Perhaps most importantly, greater efforts should be made to draw upon the wisdom of veterans like Olaiya whose vision and determination enabled them to carve out a path for others to follow.

May his life continue to serve as an inspiration for his compatriots.

Radiance of the queen •Emergence of Asisat Oshoala as BBC’s first global preeminent female player is good omen for a renascent Nigeria N truth she had been nothing but spectacular, the way she burst on the Nigerian and global football audience in 2014. That year, Asisat Oshoala won everything there was to win in female football, both in Africa and at the global stage.

At the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Canada, Asisat won both the highest scorer and best championship player, officially tagged the Most Valuable Player (MVP). The only diadem she lost was the championship itself, in which Nigeria lost to Germany in the final.

Fresh from that, she moved seamlessly into the full female national side, and won, with Nigeria, the Africa Women Championship in Namibia. Not only that: she also emerged the MVP. Come the Confederation of African Football (CAF) yearly awards for 2014, on January 8, Asisat also emerged both the African Women’s football player of the year, after earlier being named the best young female player on the continent.

Later, she would move to Liverpool Ladies FC in England, from her Nigerian club, Rivers Angels FC. She also wasted no time to settle down, making herself a vital member of that team; and scoring crucial goals en route to doing that. Right now, “Queen Asisat” is with the Nigeria Super Falcons, preparing for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, holding in Canada from June 6 to July 5.

So, her final shortlist for the BBC inaugural award, with four others, was not exactly a surprise. The final five were Veronica Boquette (Spain and FFC Frankfurt), Nadine Kessler (Germany and VFL Wolfsburg), Kim Little (Scotland and Se-

I

attle Reign FC), Marta (Brazil and FC Rosengard) and Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria and Liverpool Ladies).

But the result must have surprised many — not because Asisat lacked the technical ability and athletic discipline, but because she would appear quite some green horn, in comparison with the strong field.

The Brazilian Marta, for instance, had won the FIFA Women’s Footballer of the Year five consecutive times between 2006 and 2010. The other three are also more established names; in any case, playing in bigger and better organised leagues, across Europe and America. Besides, Asisat, at 20, was the youngest in the pack. Yet she landed the diadem: Asisat Oshoala, the first ever BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year!

Her win is again a reiteration of one thing: Nigeria is a storehouse of talents in almost every sphere of human life. With discipline and devotion, that raw gold can easily emerge as a global reference point in sheer glitter. In this age of national doubt and near-collapse, Asisat’s feat is indeed a good sign.

Believers in perceptive symbolism, if not outright metaphysics, could even push the argument further: her emergence, from virtual nowhere comparatively, is good omen that Nigeria may well be rousing in the right directions.

If Akinwunmi Adeshina’s election as the new president of the African Development Bank (AfDB) is added to the mix, it is refreshing that for once, good news, not torrid tales, are emanating from this country. Add that to the emergence of a new Muhammadu Buhari government,

on which Nigerians, the rest of Africa and indeed the whole of the world pin new hopes, it is no doubt a loving symbol of better days ahead.

Still, beyond the grandiose and the symbolic, the lesson from Asisat’s feat is simple: talent is never enough, except when well honed. That is the magic of Asisat’s success. If Nigeria deliberately and consistently hones her surplus natural talents, she would be a world beater in no time.

But back to the young woman: it is morning yet on honour’s day. That is why she should work even harder to improve on her rising profile. It is therefore the patriotic duty of her coaches to manage her such that she is not exposed to crippling pressure. That is the surest way she can achieve her full potential.

Congratulations, Queen Asisat! Congratulations, Nigeria.

‘Still, beyond the grandiose and the symbolic, the lesson from Asisat’s feat is simple: talent is never enough, except when well honed. That is the magic of Asisat’s success. If Nigeria deliberately and consistently hones her surplus natural talents, she would be a world beater in no time’

Buhari and fifthcolumnists

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IR: The statement issued by President Muhammadu Buhari last Saturday to the effect that he did not direct anyone to stop anybody from travelling abroad did not come as surprising when viewed against the background of how his efforts was thwarted by fifth-columnists when he was Military Head of State some 30 years ago.

Fearful of what Buhari may become to the people of Nigeria and fearful of what may befall their vested interests, some cliques within constituted themselves into fifth columnists and began to undermine his efforts and the integrity of the government he led. Soon afterwards, Nigerians began to hear untoward things regarding Buhari’s leadership. Concerted efforts were made to portray the government as heartless; one that has no regards for citizens human rights. The culmination of the activities of these fifth- columnists later led to his overthrow by Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

Now 30 years after, the fifth-columnists seems to be rearing their heads again, perhaps too soon.

The news about the stoppages of VIP’s at the airports ostensibly to bar them from travelling abroad is disturbing and can at best be described as gradual reincarnation of what happened to his government between 1984 to 1985. But thank God Buhari realised this fast and quickly said: ‘No one has my permission to bar anyone from travelling abroad’. This prompt action by the President is heartwarming and a demonstration of the fact that, apart from being a man of compassion, Buhari is also a man that takes the rights and privileges of individual Nigerians as sacrosanct.

‘Unless otherwise directed by the courts, no lawabiding citizens should be barred from travelling abroad. We must treat fellow citizens with courtesy and respect’ said President Buhari. This solemn declaration has indeed put a lie to those who drummed into our ears during electioneering campaigns that Buhari will put all of us in jail when voted into office.

Truly, Buhari has became a converted democrat just as he righty observed at his Chatham House lecture. He has indeed, come to represent a shinning example of how leaders in a democratic setting should think and behave. His inaugural address at Eagle Squire Abuja is being praised by all including his adversaries. The pledge by Buhari not to go after his opponents was superb and consistent with his fear of God. George Herbert in one of famous quotes said: ‘He who cannot forgive breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass’; therefore by coming out to allay the fears that he is going to settle old scores, Buhari has demonstrated the fact that he is only out to unite Nigerians and advance the cause of democracy and good governance.

But while on this, we must hasten to caution that Buhari’s opponents too must forgive and forget the past; for this is a period when unity and progress of Nigerians should be uppermost in our minds.

All the fifth- columnists in our midst must come to terms with this otherwise history would be harsh on them.

• Rayyanu Bala Lafia, Nasarawa State.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: At the onset of a new administration in Nigeria, it is appropriate to have a new look at many things that bedevil the nation. Apart from those that are apparent to the eye, there is one issue which continues to evade public attention. The lack of information and interest by the public on the total remuneration including take home pay of our Senators and Members of the House of Representative is one of those unpardonable lapses

by Nigerians.

Members of the National Assembly like all federal elected or appointed Nigerians are all political office holders. They are paid by tax payers, personal or corporate. Nothing should be shrouded in mystery about the benefits these public servants and others take from the national till. In fact, the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) is charged with the responsibility, among others, of determining the remuneration of all political office holders (from councilor of a local government to the President) and also to judicial officers. This remuneration package is expected to be passed through the Presidency to the National Assembly for enactment into law. Both the President and the

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

NASS remunerations: PMB must move fast National Assembly are constitutionally barred from increasing the recommended remuneration by one kobo but could reduce it as they may find it fit.

Unfortunately, the above constitutionally provision has been routinely and shamelessly flouted by our lawmakers. I am not sure of any recommendation of the Revenue Commission that enables a Senator or a member of the House of Representatives to earn N3million per month. But because of the cloud of doubt which envelopes certain aspects of the working of the National Assembly, nobody seems to care to know details of their take home pay. The height of impunity was demonstrated by the Clerk of the National Assembly who allegedly refused to give details to a Committee set up by government or even to a judicial body. In better climes, this would

be completely unacceptable.

The fairy tale that is making the rounds is that some senators earn up to N12 million N13 million per month, when these annual remunerations are broken down into calendar months.

President Buhari has many problems on his laps. It is because of the existence of these problems that he was massively supported during the last election. He shall not be heard to be weary or hesitant in taking appropriate remedial actions. Interestingly, one of the purported amendments which the last National Assembly sent for President Jonathan’s signature was a lifelong pension scheme of the principal officer of the two houses. If this is not milking the nation dry, I don’t know what else it is. Mercifully, Goodluck Jonathan refused to sign into law

‘This House Has Fallen’

IR: The above was the title of a book by US journalist Karl Maier written in 2000 chronicling a nation (Nigeria) on the verge of collapse after surviving series of misfortunes ranging from coups, civil war, religious crisis and human right abuses. While Karl Maier, in his book described his own as a house on the brink of a nervous breakdown, mine could be described as a house in ruins. The occupants of the fallen house are yet to come to terms with how the structure they boasted could stand to the taste of time turned out to be a house of cards.

The fallen house is People’s Democratic Party PDP, the powerful institution that once enjoyed the trappings of power and also boasted about ruling the giant of Africa for 60 years. It took six weeks (March 28-May 29) to ascertain its discrepit

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state. Now the wreckage has been cleared, we now know how irredemably bad the situation is.

While we are yet to recover from the failed promises of the outgone PDP government, the series of impunity perpetrated while it lasted remains odoriferously appalling.

Before its collapse, the PDP led government could only be compared to the Ottoman empire of the 13th century. (Ottoman state rose to become a world empire in the Middle East that lasted from the 13th century to 1923).

While PDP controlled one of the largest economies in Afrca for 16 years the Ottoman empire controlled the economies of the Middle East and South Eastern Europe from the 13th-20th century.

Both governments were conservative and profligate: unwilling or slow to accept changes or new ideas.

A great deal of resources that would have been spent on defence, education and public works were used to satisfy the alimentary purposes of government officials and their retinue of aides while at the Ottoman empire, it was used to satisfy the carnal and bacchanal desires of the Sultanate.

PDP, as greenhorn in opposition politics are yet to come to terms with their latest status, neither have they taken up the challenge of their present status,. Before the official hand over, internal bickerings and frustrated egos took over. Leaders up in arms against leaders in the party. It’s been a gale of defections, blame-games and resignations. Can a party that has almost been relegated to a regional party, play the role of a formidable opposition?

• Joe Onwukeme. unjoeratedjoe@gmail.com

this amendment which in any case did not pass through the constitutional procedures expected of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.

The question then arises, why should our rulers, that is people at the top always feel free to provide for themselves at the expense of the larger society? Oversight functions, Constituency Projects, etc are avenues for direct stealing. When a Committee of the National Assembly is set up to probe an erring

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MDA, the latter will be requested to provide funds which must have been provided for by the National Assembly ab initio. To me, there is no corruption that can match the one being perpetrated by our ‘elected’ rulers. It is nauseating, they do it with bravado and impunity and if the executive had the effrontery of asking questions, the next thing is conspiracy for impeachment.

No, it can’t continue, Nigeria must be saved from less than 1% of the population that appropriates more than 10% of our national wealth. We must know what our National Assemblymen earn. There must be a change. Let PMB start from the National Assembly, we will all line up behind him.

• Deji Fasuan, MON, JP, Ekiti State.

Farewell, Amaechi

IR: If you lived in Port Harcourt before Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi became governor of Rivers State then you would have known that this state was a day late and a naira short in security.

It was so bad that our streets were not safe. I knew this much: many people could not answer their phone calls whilst walking the streets in our neighbourhoods for fear of being mugged. Also, people couldn’t go to pleasure houses for rest and relaxation for fear of violence.

Business owners wouldn’t dare close their office late at night because hoodlums brazenly went into their shops asking for cash without fear. Our women coming from night vigil were seized by crooks and assaulted on dark back-streets.

But sanity later on in Rivers State, to a level, was restored somewhat by the Amaechi administration until recently when things spiralled out of control due to gladiatorial fights by conceited politicians. I am not a fan of the ex-governor but truth be told: Amaechi no doubt has played his part in Nigeria’s politics. Love him or hate him, history

will be generous to record his accomplishments which many of his naysayers might not approve.

Amaechi, for a fact, upped the democratic stake in this state. Isn’t it particularly strange that a governor chose to be different despite the unrelenting attraction of the people of his geographical block for regionalism?

I live here and listen to the piles of scorn that his critics pour out on him as the person responsible for the defeat of the president in the last general elections.

It was no news to see office-seekers here recently promote the candidacy of the president and their own (as if they were on a joint ticket), instead of approaching voters confidently on their own terms offering to leave a long-lasting legacy for posterity.

He may not be adored by all, especially those who say he does not respect elders, the kinds of elders who want to be Pharaohs in a democracy, but he has been able to draw attention to the responsibility of the federal government to build institutions that will endure.

• Simon Abah, Port Harcourt.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

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COMMENTS

Our Girls; Remember Fulani Herdsmen-Farmers War; Assets; Info Ministries/Media save lives

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UR Girls are still missing since April 15, 2014. President Buhari has promised to focus on their safe return and to relocate the Forward Command HQ of the Boko Haram

Tony Marinho War to Maiduguri, the embattled state capital and long sought prize of the insurgents which has again come under murderous attack along with Fika, Gamboru and Ngala since the President assumed office. Maiduguri must not fall.

Let us congratulate the majority of the seriously overestimated 160+ Nigerians, most likely nearer 120m, on surviving the ‘Political War of 2015’. There were deaths, murders, casualties and a massive nationwide trauma from the massive non-democratic assault on the democratic wishes of the citizens. Add to that a huge war budget nationwide which has been a major contributor to the crippling of the finances of the country, including the fall of the naira, and we see the true cost of this ‘Political War of 2015’.

We must congratulate President Buhari for being tenacious enough and politically savvy enough to cooperate with strange bedfellows to achieve the APC, a ‘fruit salad’ of good and evil to defeat the pot of stew, amalgamated evil, that PDP turned out to be with too few good pieces. In a fruit salad, the pieces still remain individual and separate and identifiable. The person we have put in charge, President Buhari, can use his opportunity and powers of investigation to choose between the sweet and sour pieces to present to the people the next group of leaders. He and the VP have set a good example by declaring their assets, hopefully publicly. Of course they can and will insist on obedience to the law and make ‘Assets Declaration’ accompany ‘Acceptance of Appointment Forms’ for Ministers and all advisers and appointees. The difficulty would be to get governors to follow suit with themselves and their commissioners and advisers. It is not a moral diffi-

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AVING just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians. I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.” This quotation taken from President Muhammadu Buhari’s inauguration speech in Abuja last Friday clearly sets the tone for what Nigerians should expect from their new leader in the next four years. Also, the large presence of foreign leaders from across the globe and other dignitaries at the event, equally gave a huge endorsement to the new administration.

The new president came into office on the back of the sort of overwhelming popular support he had never before enjoyed and which he probably never anticipated in the many years he had attempted to rule the country once more, as a civilian leader. The simple analogy here is that going by votes only, he won acceptance with the largest majority of people from four of the six geopolitical zones in the country.

What is different between his performance in 2011 and now is that, not only did he predictably retain the support of people from the North-west and North-east; he also made far more inroads in the South-west and the North-central states this time around. The truth is that, no matter what the opposition may say, ordinary masses actually took ownership of the last electoral process, some engaging in door-todoor campaign at great personal expense and peril, with many shunning primordial sentiments like ethnicity and religion, to ensure Buhari’s emergence as president.

In the run up to the election, a

culty but a corruption perpetuation difficulty.

However President Buhari must try to make Assets Declaration the first step to all such government appointments. Whether he can get assent from a current NASSty NASS remains to be seen. The NASS track record, for party members of all parties, in financial transparency is legend and abysmal. It is in serious doubt if the membership of NASS and even the state assemblies are willing to clean up their act or allow themselves to be cleaned up. Indeed the President referred to difficulty with getting the states and LGAs to cooperate. Only time will tell. The President was particularly silent on the second Nigerian War –The Fulani herdsmen- Farmers across 10 states War’ which claims between 30 and 100 citizens a day and over 5,000 to date. He will be expected to tell us his plan for the end of this war in the near future.

While we give President Buhari the next few days to tell us his plans and reminds him that there are 1460-5= 1455 days left, let us take a break from politics and remember to implement policies at home and at work that will save ourselves to enjoy the fruits of our 2015 democratic struggles.

I have recently advised several groups on how to stay healthy and attended the funerals of too many acquaintances and friends. No one will live forever and no one knows the day of death, but there are a few things we can all pay attention to in order to even the odds. There are lessons to be learned from the maybe N1.5-2tillion naira political campaign even as we remove the posters and burn the newspaper adverts. If we paid as much attention to our health as we do to politics and gossip we will be a healthier happier people. If we funded health posters and health adverts as much as we fund political posters and political messages we would all be healthier or and happier. If our 200 radio and TV stations carried as many life-saving and health information messages as political messages we would all be healthier and happier. If the ministries of information at federal and state and LGA level did their real job of informing the public every day about the 200 life-saving messages instead of what politicians’ daily antics we would all be healthier

and happier. Nigeria’s media must educate. It must take responsibility for the medical and social ignorance of the citizens as it has 24/7 access to citizens who are often ignorant of life-saving skills and messages. This is the task before all government and private media organisations and executives – to educate the citizenry during the next 1455 days on staying alive before 2019 round of democracy and election education. There is more to media responsibility for citizens’ education than Ebola and Elections. There is life itself and people need life skill education daily as new ignorant citizens hear and see radio and TV for the first time every day.

So the inadequate amount of airtime allocated to such life skill messages is a scandalous indictment on the media which happily awards itself accolades for branded commercial advertising while to population falls ill and dies from lack of life skills. Life skill messages needing dissemination include taking folic acid throughout reproductive life, checking Blood Pressure, examining your breast and abdomen for masses, knowing your genotype, low sugar-salt-fats-alcohol intake and regular exercise.

‘Life Skill Message Education’ is in and out of school time and worktime.

‘If our 200 radio and TV stations carried as many life-saving and health information messages as political messages we would all be healthier and happier. If the ministries of information at federal and state and LGA level did their real job of informing the public every day about the 200 life-saving messages instead of what politicians’ daily antics we would all be healthier and happier’

As Buhari steps in – 2 friend narrated to me an interesting encounter he had with a young man in his 20s. According to my friend, he was at a fast food outlet when one of the desperate antiBuhari video documentaries by the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, was being aired. After the video had run for a while, the young man turned to my friend and said: “You know, I was not yet born when this man was president in 1984. But the fact that his opponents seem to always criticize how he tried to force people to do this and that, tells me that the man may have tried to sanitise things in his own way and people were not happy with him for that.”

My friend said he went ahead to deliver an impromptu lecture to the young man about how Buhari, in his War Against Indiscipline, introduced public sanity measures and ethics like the end of the month environmental sanitation exercise, queuing to access public utilities and all that. According to my friend, the young man left that afternoon with a vow to cast his vote for Buhari and also pledged to convince his friends and neighbors to do same. This captures the level of expectation that came with Buhari’s candidacy and eventual victory at the polls.

At the age of 73, Buhari is a man, who can be said to have seen it all.

Therefore, in terms of the temptation to toy with the people’s goodwill, he must strive hard not to disappoint people like that young man, nay, Nigerians in general. If at all

‘Nigeria has been lost in the wilderness of despair for too long. Now is the time to replot our national graph and seize the opportunity presented by the emergence of Buhari, with both hands’

he had earlier been recorded on the bad page of history, this is a golden opportunity for the new president to rewrite history. Such opportunities are rare though, but, here he is, with another golden opportunity to right the wrongs of the past.

Of course, let us not get ahead of ourselves and expect that everything will go plain sailing. That is, indeed, naivety of the highest order in the stern reality of the murky political waters and the peculiarly testy terrain that is Nigeria. Nigeria is a country where the resort to primordial factors can easily polarise even the most elevated socio-political issues and discourse.

The truth is that, even if he does not know that already, Buhari may soon realize that even his ‘own’ people – both the northerners and the All Progressives Congress, APC – will begin to jostle to elevate their interests above the collective interests of Nigeria. This is why he should shine his eyes.

From what I gathered from his close associates and as exemplified by the extract from his inauguration speech reproduced at the beginning of this column, the president is his own man. That is, once he is convinced about something, he cannot be easily swayed. I think the country needs that type of man with a strong character and strong will to be able to decipher between good and bad; between praise singing, sycophancy and objectivity. Even the most strident of leaders can be easily drowned in the sea of yesmen around him. Nigeria surely needs a man gifted with guts, gumption and iron in his back-bone to pilot the affairs of the country and extricate it from the cobweb of hopelessness into which it is currently enmeshed. Whether Buhari fits perfectly into that bill will be determined by the events of the next four

years.

And then, there will be the issue of those who financed the campaign and would be naturally eager to recoup their investments by angling for plum or juicy government contracts and appointments to this end.

The administration will kick and cry in order to free itself from the fangs of these inevitable ‘hawks.’ In this case, Buhari will need to bear it in mind that he must succeed where others before him faltered and failed.

The immediate past government is perceived to have failed miserably to live appreciably above the big hand of these ‘hawks.” The beauty of it all is that in the new president, there is a man with the necessary discipline to live above a lot of these temptations.

This is because dealing with these sort of issues, can often require the type of single-mindedness that critics of Buhari, a former military ruler, have often accused him of possessing.

However, beyond his personal qualities and all that, the new president needs to surround himself with people of knowledge, technocrats and experts who will also demonstrate a good level of readiness to ride above pettiness and first and foremost, put their knowledge and expertise on the table for the common good. The new president, indeed, has one of such technocrats and practical men needed to help share virile ideas and steer the ship of the country well enough. He has that man in Professor Yemi Osinbajo, the vice-president, former attorney-general of Lagos State and a very practical academic.

Furthermore, it is pertinent to note that there will be a lot of bumpy climbs and slippery slopes along the line for Buhari-Osinbajo and for Nigerians in the coming days, months and years, but let us

Dele Agekameh hope that we can all be patient enough and cooperate with the genuine positive endeavours of the government. To achieve this, we should not be unduly apprehensive and acerbic especially in the first few months of the administration.

Personally, I am not too sentimental about the so-called 100 days mantra, but all things being equal, I think there is light at the end of the tunnel. Nigeria has been lost in the wilderness of despair for too long. Now is the time to re-plot our national graph and seize the opportunity presented by the emergence of Buhari, with both hands. The country must move forward and that responsibility lies on the shoulders of our new leaders as well as the people of this country.

Never again should we allow some group of bandits and plunderers to make away with our common patrimony and ride roughshod over the populace. The days of impunity and bare-face robbery of the treasury should be gone and gone for good!

•Concluded.

For comments Text (only) to : 08058354382

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

COMMENTS ‘It would not be radical and revolutionary if truly, only ex-President Jonathan’s past activities are probed. In fact, such probe must be cascaded to the states and LGs since 1985. Reason is that, Buhari/Idiagbon 1984/85 regime dealt a bit of a micro probe into the Shagari administration. It won’t be out of place to allocate six months for the 30-year past. You will be amazed that we will be able to retrieve up to N3trillion.

About 90 percent of the ‘rats’ are very much alive.

Jonathan did not seek for exclusivity. He guided the new administration in the interest of fairness, justice, transparency, radicalism, revolution and new path to Nigeria’s growth. From Lanre Oseni’ •Buhari For Olatunji Dare What are the sins of Nigerians that led to sufferings at the last minute of the outgone President Goodluck Jonathan government; over the cause of fuel scarcity and power failure nationwide? Is it because Nigerians rejected his second term bid over non-performance? The truth of the matter is that Nigerians wanted change and they got it and we are in expectant mood for beautiful things promised before Nigeria will collapse of corruption and other social vices. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia Sir, your piece in the The Nation entitled: ‘From GEJ to GMB is wonderful. But with the mess GEJ is leaving behind, is there any hope that the incoming government will be able to fix or do anything reasonable? From CSP Ladi Sulyman,PSC Jos “Poisoned chalice” I love reading from great writers like you. You really hit the nail on the head. From Emeka,Bayelsa.

My Brother, your article from GEJ to GMB: A poisoned chalice, today in The Nation is sport on! We need more of such truth to be told to our politicians. Best. From Segun Fagboyegun I am in total agreement with all you have said.My problem however is with the governed, how do we call the leadership to account? Should we continue to let the elected do as they wish? Give us which way to go. Is there any government anywhere where the people make the leadership give account? Can we copy? Please help I am worried. Dr ShittaBey A poisoned chalice: Sir, you spoke my mind on Jonathan. What you did not add is that he is a demented bush man from Otuoke who has brought my Bayelsa State to national shame. From Tarrie Dawudu, Warri.

Your article at the back of The Nation on May 26, 2015. Regretably, it was medicine after death. A better piece should have been to study GEJ’s antecedent and blow the whistle and clear the air and way before the much celebrated 100 days in office, as done by our political office holders. So that the public could have been on their toes from the start.Anonymous A Poisoned Chalice. We Nigerians created problems for former President GEJ, we expected much from him, at the end he achieved nothing in the presence of the so many retired army Generals. Anonymous From the beginning, GEJ did not have an idea of what the task was all about. He progressively grew in the cluelessness to the very end. As he goes home, let him take as many pairs of shoes as he can. For so long as he lives in Nigeria to witness the effects of his destruction, for that long shall peace elude him (no curse intended) “NO peace for the wicked” says the scriptures. So long Jonathan, so long. Anonymous Prof Dare, You are one of the best brains in our society. You write beyond reasonable doubt with genuine evidence and pulchritudinous facts and figures. Your earth-moving vocabularies, gigantic grammars and marvellous idiomatic expressions are widely valued.

Bradley University hasn’t mistakenly honoured you with the newly given award Professor Emeritus. You worth more than that, due to your selflessness, tireless service, prodigious contribution, and your Cosmopolitan credentials. I beseech God Almighty in his interminable benevolence to add more to your creative power. On your article From GEJ to GMB. Jonathan as Nigeria president. Did he think he’s wiser than others? Experienced than the almost 150 million Nigerians? Or qualified intellectually than his followers? Has he forgotten he was just an opportunist? Moved from Deputy-Governor to the Governor to vice-president to acting-President and finally

to President. We all voted massively for him in 2011 aiming he would use his experience as PhD holder to navigate our dearest country!

“What a grave and great mistake” He has forgotten he was shoeless boy. He disobeyed and broke the rules, regulations, norms and ethos of the country, siphoned, embezzled and mismanaged the resources of the country. He grumbled, wobbled and fumbled. Turned down pieces of advice and counsels of his Godfather and PDP stalwarts. He didn’t have it at the depth of his mind that Nigerians can be obedient and respectful when their leader is up to task, but act otherwise as soon as leader took them for granted. Behaved in his lackadaisical attitude as if there was no tomorrow.

Now tomorrow has come. GMB all the way. From Surveyor Amidu Saheed, Ifo. For Segun Gbadegesin Re: A beautiful day ! .What a beautiful piece .It’s the dawn of a new Century .You do not serve your nation and humanity and expect to be compensated , not to even think of jumbo and incredible compensation . This has been how Nigeria is being milked; and instead of disintegration, it has collapsed .We all need patriotic thinking now. From L .O David .

Gwagwalada,FCT. Mr.S.Gbadegesin,I love your write up in today’s ‘The Nation’. You hit the nail on the head. Your Opalaba needs our prayers now.

Have a nice day. From. Rev. P. O. Osa Re- a beautiful day. You gave enough summary of the required essentials to succeed by Buhari/Osinbajo/APC. ‘A word they say is enough for the wise’. One should be encouraged by Buhari’s word after being sworn in that, ‘ I am for everybody and for nobody’. let us give Buhari/Osinbajo two years before they could honestly be assessed. It was a beautiful day at Eagle’s Square on Friday, May 29.It glowed beautifully. From Lanre Oseni.

Unedited merits to you sir Mr Segun, for this deeply thoughtful and diplomatic write-up.

With all sense of humility and belonging, I am forwarding to you my heart-rending reaction, being a die-hard reader of The Nation Newspaper.Beginning with prayers, long live Mr Segun, long live The Nation, and long live Nigeria. On this: A beautiful day. Yes it was.

The day Nigerians patiently waited for, masses prayed hard to witnes it . Patriotic ones beseeched God to grant them their heart desires on the day. Let’s all remain indebted and thankful to God for seeing the day in harmony and tranquillity. In furtherance, many thanks to the architects of the good fortune. They made it happen. They are the God-sent ambassadors of the slogan, “CHANGE” Came together from different parts of the country formed an unfavourable-alliance, of which sacrifices were made, dreams abandoned, ambitions buried, notions ignored. They all strove hard and worked tirelessly. They had sleepless nights, tedious days, meeting over meeting, with different opinions and thoughts, arguing, disagreeing and later arriving at a decision. At the face of intimidation, oppression, vilification vituperation defamation, they remained undaunted . What an heroic action, from the truly worthy-leaders with messianic spirit and positive thinking. Importantly, Bola Tinubu, Rotimi Amaechi and their co-achievers. May we all live longer to benefit from the heydays of the anointed servant of God (GMB). In awesome and good mood I write. From Surveyor Amidu Saheed For Gbenga Omotoso Sir. Your write-ups tickle and excite me, as Nigerians we all shall partake of the great change movement, depending on which side of the divide we belong. So long for, let tomorrow come we pray. From HENNY, Awka.

Re: Where will you be on May 29? Sure at the Eagle Square. Nice piece! Sir, what about the

petroleum queen and the understated woman at the Water Resources?Anonymous If GEJ had taken another four years as president, Nigeria would have been extinct from Africa and World map. When one is not ready for a position, he becomes swollen headed and carried away by it. So he was. From Norbert Egor I will be in the Redeem Camp to thank and praise God for bringing Nigeria out of Egypt, and on our way to the Promised Land, that God should help the President and his vice to fulfil their promises. Thanks my brother. From Tina Oboh Mr Gbenga, your question surprised me, someone stole my 20 litres of petrol this morning, I went to the police statation to report, but the officer on duty asked me why I kept it carelessly, I will stay in house and pray for NEPA miracle so that I will watch my television. Anonymous Re “Where will you be on May 29?” What a witty satire of those Nigerians who believed their political game was unstoppable. Indeed, Fani-Kayode, Doyin Okupe et al are fake PR men, lacking in knowledge and skill of trained, experienced Journalists or Public Relations Practitioners who have internalised the ethics of their profession. These values are reflected in their campaigns. Compare to Joseph Goebbels, Adolf Hitler’s political propagandist, our brothers’ messages were also virulent but deficient in techniques of persuasion, acquired through learning and professional experience. They forgot Nigeria’s political history and complex social characteristics. To avoid the tragedy of our recent past, NUJ, NGE and NIPR must work together to ensure that only professionally qualified PR men and women (of Law, Medicine &Accountancy etc) can practise in Nigeria. From Sunny Agbontaen.

Gbenga Omotoso, God will give you dinine knowledge, Amen. The new name of Fani Kayode is Fani Ko Ika de. From Ayodele Buhari will do well because he has Nigeria’s problems at heart, despite the fact that the out-going government has siphoned our money for their selfish use. We need patience from Buhari because he cannot run things over night with empty resource.Sixteen years in the wilderness under PDP, it was tough.

Buhari would take us to the Promised Land as he said during his campaigns but it is a gradual process. Buhari should not surround himself with never-do-well politicians in his government and try to probe out-going government for mismanagement of funds meant for development. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia,Abia state Where will I be today? At home, celebrating the sanity of Nigerians in cleansing our nation via the ballot box. Anonymous I read your column on The Nation newspaper of May 29 entitled: “ Where will you be on May 29” and I enjoyed it immensely.I don’t normally read newspapers but I found your column very entertaining, you will be surprised to know that everything you predicted will happen exactly as you said it. Keep up the good work. Anonymous In response to your article Where will you be on May 29? Did you see how God glorified Goodluck Jonathan? You wrote out of pure sentiment. From Mathias.

I will be in the church to pray for Messiah Buhari so that the law makers in the Senate and in the House of Representatives and the Nigerian Labour Congress will not make this nation ungovernable by passing obnoxious law to prevent him from removing that dirty and smelling thing called oil subsidy. While still staying in the church, I will pray to God for the quintessential Buhari to immediately cut or reduce the salaries of the law makers, ministers, commissioners and councillors by 75 percent. I will pray for Buhari to utilise the subsidy money to build modern rail lines to

•Jonathan cover the 774 LGA of the nation. Anonymous For Tunji Adegboyega Re: Jonathan’s parting shot. To the discerning, Dr Jonathan has no shame to have suggested the extension of probe to previous regimes if his was to be probed. . A Yoruba axiom properly fits into this scenario: Ti oju ko ba ti ole, oju a ti ara ile re which literally means that if a thief is not ashamed of his nefarious acts, his relatives would do. One is no longer surprised at the abysmal performance of GEJ in office because he has openly confessed to his Otuoke clan that he never wished to be in politics, which means that he never planned for the exalted office of president.

In other words, he was a gate-crasher at the expense of Nigerians. Imagine the open display of recklessness, lawlessness and impunity by GEJ and his so-called exco? Mama Peace, a traducer also made matters worse for their government.

By now, from her innermost mind, she must be licking her wounds for her unguarded utterances.

However, GMB should get across the powerful message that he got to Aso Rock based on his well-known antecedent of incorruptibility and the suffering masses are of the opinion that he will stick to this by beaming his searchlight on all those who had carted away our wealth brazenly. Anything short of this would be totally rejected. This singular act, if not taken, may drastically wane his government; 2019 is around the corner. Finally, Jonathan is strongly advised to stop arm-twisting the new government. Any advice from him now is like the case of a blind man leading another blind man. From Ch. Soji Oloketuyi., Ijabo Str, Igbemo Ekiti.

Tunji, your ‘Jonathan’s parting shot’ is apt, succinct and advisory. Keep it flowing. From Gab, Abuja.

It would not be radical and revolutionary if truly, only ex-President Jonathan’s past activities are probed. In fact, such probe must be cascaded to the states and LGs since 1985. Reason is that, Buhari/Idiagbon 1984/85 regime dealt a bit of a micro probe into the Shagari administration. It won’t be out of place to allocate six months for the 30-year past. You will be amazed that we will be able to retrieve up to N3trillion. About 90 percent of the ‘rats’ are very much alive.

Jonathan did not seek for exclusivity. He guided the new administration in the interest of fairness, justice, transparency, radicalism, revolution and new path to Nigeria’s growth. From Lanre Oseni.

I have just read your piece: “Jonathan’s parting shot”. It seems GEJ is afraid. Yes, the guilty are really afraid. Anonymous.

Dear Adegboyega, Jonathan’s statement is likened to a motorist that was stopped by an FRSC official on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and was asked to produce his particulars, he now told the officer to go and do the same to other motorists who have passed before he could check his papers! Don’t mind him. From Pastor Ojo, Ijebu-Ode. Jonathan was right to have asked Buhari to focus his probe searchlight beyond his tenure. Let us admit for once that Jonathan has some exclusive/privileged information on this matter of corruption … It is probably too early to celebrate the anti-corruption campaign. From Dr Nwagwu, C.C. Corruption assumed an unusual dimension when your kinsman OBJ was in charge. Apart from the massive looting of fund, he conducted the worst elections in the country’s history. Let Mr President probe 16 years of PDP rule. Anonymous.

Tunji, Please stop putting Jonathan in your shade of bitterness and bad light now that he is no longer president, and because he is not a Yoruba. We are eager to patronise your constructive criticism of the new government as you did the former. From Aquital Andrew, Kaduna.

First and foremost, let the past president and all his politi God answered the prayers of Nigerians for change over co Buhari would use to start governance since the past governm

TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

25 agenda for decentralising the judiciary should ’beAnquickly put in place. State or Regional Courts

of Appeal and Supreme Courts should be allowed to flourish and decide cases to finality within their different spheres, zones and regions

’

E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

See page 26

In his inaugural speech last Friday, President Muhammadu Buhari spoke of judicial reform to allow for the swift dispensation of corruption-related cases. In this report, ERIC IKHILAE identifies key areas that could be tinkered with to allow for the planned reform.

P

INSIDE:

RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, in his inaugural speech last Friday, spoke of reforms in some critical institutions, including the Judiciary.

Many Nigerians support him.

They believe that the Judiciary should be overhauled to ensure, among others, swift dispensation of justice, a major prerequisite for the success of the administration’s pledge to tackle corruption.

Although there have been attempts to reform the Judiciary, the third arm of government is still battling with challenges ranging from autonomy, institutional defects, a faulty appointment process to poor funding.

There is also the problem of archaic laws and procedural rules, requiring prompt attention.

Observers contend that any judicial reform must first begin with cleansing of the court system to eliminate bad eggs. They argue that corruption must be tackled for any reform initiative to be meaningful.

They note that judicial officers pay little regard to their code of conduct and ethics, part of which informed the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mahmud Mohammed’s scathing remarks about judges, who write books and launch them while in service.

The CJN said it was “regrettable to note that some petitions received at the National Judicial Council (NJC) were written in respect of books launched by or on behalf of Heads of Court and being attended by litigants in their courts, who have also acted as chief launchers or indeed guests of honour on the occasion.

“Judges must understand that by launching such books while in service, they potentially submit themselves to the publishers and the so called launchers, while opening themselves up to allegations of corruption.

“It is now clear, judging from the public’s reaction to these book launches and the resultant negative media coverage of same, that our ability to be impartial and indeed honest in our judgments, is now regarded with scepticism.”

Observers said it is not enough for the CJN to condemn such conduct among judges, and that he should penalise those found wanting.

They argued that President Buhari’s pledge to ensure independence for the Judiciary within the context of the principle of separation of power must include financial independence as provided in the Constitution. This, they said, would enable the Judiciary provide for its needs, including prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements, procurement of necessary tools, the employment of qualified support staff and continuous training for

Salami, Ogunde, others urge lawyers to champion cause of society -Page 27

‘How Buhari can cleanse Judiciary’ judges and other court’s personnel.

The continued retention of old laws in the nation’s statute books has to a greater extent impeded the effective operation of the court because they no longer meet today’s requirements. Where, for instance, the penalties for some offences are no longer adequate, the judge is mostly helpless. This problem can only be solved with a review of the laws to bring them to term with current realities.

In line with the CJN’s announcement on May 14, this year of a new

procedure for judges’appointment, observers have also called for a continues review of the procedure to ensure that the Bench is populated with men and women of great learning and integrity, who are committed to ensuring justice even though the heavens may fall.

According to the CJN the new procedure, as contained in the 2014 Revised National Judicial Council (NJC) Guidelines and Procedural ýRules for the Appointment of Judicial Officers of All Superior Courts of Record in Nigeria, “will

Legal framework for prevention of terrorism -Page 37

ensure that only fit and proper persons and the most intellectually astute, morally sound, meritorious and deserving candidates were appointed as judges”.

Observers have also suggested that institutional reform in the Judiciary should extend to the review of the membership of the NJC, particularly as it relates its headship by the CJN and its membership comprising mostly of serving judge. They argued that the CJN, as a serving judge, whose conduct is subject to the supervision of the

NJC, should not be made to head the NJC, which has the responsibility to scrutinise the conduct of the CJN. They suggested that where the head and membership of the NJC were made up of retired judicial officers and complemented by notable lawyers of integrity, it would ensure an unbiased supervision of judicial activities by the NJC, This, they argued, would prevent a recurrence of the 2011 crisis between the then CJN, Justice Aloysius Katsina-Alu (retired) and then President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Isa Ayo Salami (rtd), which was taken before the NJC headed

by CJN. Lawyers, in also reacting to the President’s observation about the need for judicial reform, have equally identified areas requiring urgent attention in the Judiciary. They include President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Augustine Alegeh (SAN) and two of his predecessors, Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

Others include Sebastine Hon (SAN), Mahmud Magaji (SAN) and Ade Adedeji.

Alegeh, in a statement on May 29, this year said the NBA expects the new administration to set out as part of its agenda, the amendment and reformation of Nigerian laws to make them meet present day challenges.

“Government policies must be backed by law and to actualise the desired change agenda, there must be reformation of our Laws to give legal backing to the change agenda. The NBA offers its unflinching support to the administration in the exercise of amending, reforming and update of Nigerian laws,” he said.

Olanipekun said the needed judicial review must begin with ensuring the independence of the judiciary, then move on to sanitising the judicial sphere.

He said his call for the sanitisation of the sector does not amount to a call for the government to pocket the judiciary.

The former NBA President, at a reception in Lagos in honour of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), said the Judiciary must be respected and recognised as an independent arm of government, just like the Executive and Legislature, because it is not and never inferior to either of the two.

“Part of sanitising the judiciary entails proper funding and making it self-financing. Thank God for majority of our Judges who shun corruption like a plague, and who would deliver judgments based on facts and law and not on extenuating •Continued on page 26

Great expectations from Buhari, Osinbajo -Page 39

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

26

LAW COVER CONT’D ‘It’s illegal to arrest relatives of suspects’

By Adebisi Onanuga

A

• Alegeh

• Hon

• Olanipekun

• Magaji

• Akeredolu

• Adedeji

‘How Buhari can cleanse Judiciary’ •Continued from page 27

over-bearings or influences.

“However, my take has always been that a single bad egg can and will always give our judiciary a bad name, and stigmatise the vast majority of excellent judges. Thus, the few bad eggs, when and where identified, should be shown the way out, while more thorough and painstaking efforts should be put in place at appointing new judges.

The judiciary itself, through some of our serving judges should stop the fanfare of randomly issuing ex-parte orders of injunction against the National Judicial Council (NJC) in the performance of its constitutionally assigned duty of putting machineries in motion at disciplining erring judges, as this practice has virtually crippled the council.

The Judiciary has been constitutionally ‘unitarised’. This is unfair and unjust. An agenda for decentralising the judiciary should be quickly put in place. State or Regional Courts of Appeal and Supreme Courts should be allowed to flourish and decide cases to finality within their different spheres, zones and regions. ‘’The Federal Government has no business establishing a federal judiciary to handle state matters, whether criminal or civil,” Olanipekun said.

Akeredolu, who spoke in an interview shortly after the President’s inauguration in Abuja, said the President’s pledge to ensure the independence of the Judiciary was welcome, saying the country’s Judiciary needs free hand to operate. He urged the President to put in place the necessary mechanism for the reformation of the Judiciary.

Hon advocated the need for any reform in the Judiciary to commence with statutory and constitutional amendments that will put the Judiciary on a good pedestal. This, he said, is because the nation has archaic laws that im-

pede the process of litigation and due process of law.

He also suggested a review of the procedure for the appointment of judges. “They will do well, especially for the appellate court, to be appointing lawyers from private practice and intermingling them with judges from the lower courts. This will allow for a find blend of people from outside and people from within, because we have had such experience before, and it produced fine result.

“There should be true independence for the Judiciary, particularly on the issue of finding. If there is no financial independence, then, we are only being academic on this issue of reform. They should discipline erring judges with dispatch. This is because it is no more a hidden fact that there is corruption in the judiciary and among judicial officers. So, they should discipline judges, who are found wanting with dispatch,” Hon said.

‘They should discipline erring judges with dispatch. This is because it is no more a hidden fact that there is corruption in the judiciary and among judicial officers. So, they should discipline judges, who are found wanting with dispatch’

Magaji, who is concerned about the need to ensure prompt conclusion of corruption-related cases, argued: “If we are to make headway in the fight against corruption, some courts should be dedicated to treating corruption related cases. And in doing that, the head of that court can devise a means, like the practice direction, to aid the quick dispensation of justice. That, I think should be the best approach.”

Adedeji argued that despite the President’s urge for reform in the judiciary, such could only be effected internally, with the Executive only making recommendations and playing some roles in law reforms, but not to be involved in the reform of the Judiciary as an arm of government.

He said the President could only achieve his aim if he is able to win the support of those within Judiciary, who possess the power to effect the needed changes.

“If Mr. President is talking about encouraging independence of the Judiciary and Separation of Powers, it will amount to conflict in terms, if at the same time he is talking of reform in the Judiciary. If the Judiciary is to be reformed, it can only be reformed by those people within the Judiciary.

“I believe the President was just being a politician. I do not believe that, as the President of this nation, he can reform the Judiciary and yet, to a great extent, encourage Separation of Power and the independence of the Judiciary. But he is not properly positioned to actually reform the Judiciary.

“Why I say the President’s suggestion of reform in the Judiciary is a contradiction is term, is that it is not his primary responsibility to reform the Judiciary. He cannot interfere in the internal affairs of the Judiciary for the purpose of reforming it,” Adedeji said.

HUMAN rights group, Access to Justice (AJ), has advised the Nigeria Police to stop arresting relatives of suspects who are at large.

The Project Officer of the group, Mrs. Chinelo Chinweze, gave the advice last week at a training by the group for senior police officers.

It had as theme “Effective implementation of the Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2011 (ACJ Law)”.

Mrs Chinweze said it was illegal for policemen to arrest relations of wanted suspects.

The training, which was organised to strengthen the integrity and transparency of the interrogation process by the Police focused primarily on specific reform provisions targeted at safeguarding crime suspects from abuse, oppression and exploitation by the IPO. “The law frowns at the victimisation of innocent citizen for crimes for which another is suspected to have committed and therefore prohibits Investigating Police Officers (IPO) from arresting a suspect’s wife, husband, brother, child, relative or acquaintance in place of the suspect,”she said.

Highlighting the key reform on law, Mrs Chinweze said Section 3 of the ACJ Law imposes a duty on an arresting officer to inform a person arrested of the cause of his arrest at the time of his or her arrest.

According to her, the section gives a crime suspect the right to be informed of the charges against him as well as the choice whether to answer question during interrogation or to write any statement until after consultation with his lawyer or right to avail himself of free legal representation from the Office of Public Defender (OPD), Legal Aid Council or any such agency.

“It is a mandatory duty placed on a police officer effecting an arrest to take inventory of items recovered or taken from the body and or premises, of an arrested person and to ensure that the person arrested retains a copy of such inventory.”

Earlier, the Director of Access to Justice, Mr. Joseph Otteh, said the workshop, seventh in the series, was aimed at equipping law enforcement officers with the necessary resources needed to ensure the effective implementation of the ACJ Law. He added that while reforms might be legislated in the statute books, the reality on the ground may be different.

“Our research on the enforcement of the ACJ Law shows that while the ACJ law may observed by a few policemen, most IPOs have yet to comply with the reforms. Some policemen still arrest relatives of crime suspects in lieu of the suspects.

“In many police stations, physical brutality is still being used to extort confessionals from detainees, and due process rights of crime suspects to have the presence and attendance of legal counsel during interrogation is still systematically denied as an intrusion in the crime investigation process.”

Otteh further said the group observed that crime suspects still endure prolonged administrative and pre-trial detention while suspects are taken to courts and get remanded pending investigations and referral to the Directorate Public Prosecution’s (DPP) office.

“During this period, the police ought to quickly complete whatever investigation they are doing and report back to the court.

“Unfortunately, for several reasons, chronic delays force the matter to be adjourned again and again. Yet the new law says that before you ask for an adjournment, you must provide justification. We hope that all these will sooner than later be things of the past,” Otteh added.

He, therefore, thanked the Lagos State Government, particularly the state, AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, for their support towards the programme.

He thanked the police for keying into the programme, adding that it is beginning to yield modest changes in police behaviour.

“We are seeing modest changes in police behaviour - some of them coming from police chiefs who simply want to do things differently. In some cases, we understand that DPOs periodically check police cells, inquiring into the cases of those who have stayed beyond 48 hours. This is a welcome relief,” he added.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

27

LAW & SOCIETY The Journal of the Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin titled: ‘The Jurist’ has become a platform for honouring lawyers who have distinguished themselves and contributed to the development of the legal profession in the last 20 years. The 20th edition of the journal was presented in Ilorin last week in honour of Layi Babatunde (SAN), reports ADEBISI ONANUGA

Salami, Ogunde, others urge lawyers to champion cause of society

L

AWYERS and other stakeholders in the justice sector, last week converged on Ilorin to honour one of their own, Layi Babatunde (SAN).

This was at the public presentation of the 20th edition of The Jurist, the journal of the Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin.

Babatunde was recognised for his support for the legal education.

Former President, Court of Appeal, Justice Issa Ayo Salami, who was the Chairman of the occasion, in his opening remarks, berated lawyers for failing the society when their services were needed most.

Justice Salami observed that a lot of lawyers have chosen to pursue money to the detriment of the roles expected of them by the society who look up to them to champion their causes in times of troubles.

The jurist cited the recent incident of a journalist who was beaten up in Ekiti State to buttress his disappointment in the conduct of lawyers.

He lamented that not even the Chairman of the state branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) did anything to fight the abuse and infringement of the fundamental right of the victim.

“The legal profession is not all about money but a profession that bears society’s problem. Unfortunately, lawyers in recent times have not been carrying out their roles. The lawyers are not doing their role. Where are the lawyers?” he asked.

Justice Salami, however, extolled the virtues of the honouree, who he said, is honest, trustworthy and reliable and a brother who has distinguished himself in the profession.

He also commended Layi’s law publications, particularly “Supreme Court Reports”, saying it is a tool for lawyers work with and that it resolves conflicts in the legal practice.

Former Attorney-General and, Commissioner for Justice of Ogun State, Mr Wemimo Ogunde (SAN), in his speech titled: ”The three days of a lawyer” also charged lawyers and other stakeholders in the justice sector to discharge their responsibility to the society in line with their professional calling. He to constantly examine themselves with a view to reflect better a tomorrow.

Ogunde went philosophical when he said the journey of life falls into three stages;” that which is past, that which is being spent and that which to come”. He said the existence of today gives the lawyer an opportunity to begin to rectify that which was objectionable yesterday.

He said the ingredients of a legal career, character, competence and confidence are made ready for use in whichever state they find themselves.

According to him,ý “if a legal career has already started on a bad note in the sense that the lawyer in the early years if his career got himself or herself involved in some unethical behaviour, the existence of today affords an opportunity to redress that past. “ It is what is being done now that ultimately count. How glori-

ous yesterday was, the poor use of today can pollute or degrade the good of yesterday.

“The, today, law continues to use the vast reservoir of yesterday for the purpose of making law improve the society and positively affect the citizenry. It is obvious that law is a flowing river that constantly gathers the floatsam of yesterday, learns from the mistake that brought them forth and clears them away with the powerful current of today’s flow of fresh waters.

“The impact of continuing legal education is seen only in the today of the lawyer since it recognises that the application of law to conduct within the society constantly faces resistance brought about by the complexity of human activity both in the individual and in relationships. The result is that yesterday departs leaving in its wake the debris of error both from the bar and the bench. Some of these errors are costly.

“They mighty have resulted in wrongful convictions, deprivation of settled rights and some others acts of misfortune. The beauty of today is that it prevents a repetition or perpetuation of such errors bringing about new life for tomorrow which are evident in law reforms, judicial activism and intellectual reviews.”

The learned silk, therefore, counselled lawyers must be honest in self examination. “ Constant examine of self with a view to reflect on how he stood yesterday whether for good or for ill. The reflection on how yesterday was always affords a better use of today,” he stressed.

Earlier in his address,the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali, congratulated the leadership and the members of the law society on its recent acknowledgment as the best law faculty in the country by the Council of Legal Education ,Nigeria, urging them to keep the flag flying.

He also admonished the students to equip themselves “sufficiently, reading voraciously, learning vigorously and prepare seriously for the future.

“On this note, I want to urge the final year studentýs of this society to sustain the tempo and maintain the standard established by their predecessors by being better by far than others when it is their time to be in the Nigeria Law School.

“I have no doubt about it, the training you have received and you are still receiving from the University of Ilorin is such that can make you stand out among your pairs all over the world. So my charge to you on this occassion is that you should keep it up, continue to stand out and you will be outstanding.”

The vice chancellor also urged the students to emulate the honoree, Babatunde (SAN) who he described as a scholar of high repute, noting has edited and published 480 editions of the judgments of the Supreme Court of Nigeria (S.C.Report ) with 22 indexes dating back to 1972.

The Dean of the Law Faculty, Dr. Yusuf Arowosaiye, also appreciated the students for their thoughtfulness in recognising the leading

•Justice Salami (rtd) flanked by Chief Judge, Kwara State Justice S. D. Kawu (right) and Babatunde (SAN) at the ceremony.

• A. O. Mohammed (SAN)

• Dean of the Faculty of Law, Dr. I. A. Yusuf

• Deputy Vice Chancellor, UNILORIN, Prof. Y. M. Fakunle (left) presenting the award to Mr. Babatunde and his wife Adejoke.

lights of character and integrity who deserved to be honoured for their contributions to the development of law profession in the country and Nigerian law and jusrispudence.

Arowosaiye said: “The Jurist, our signature students’ publication has proud 20-year-history of existence with this year 20th edition in honour of a well-deserved legal icon, Babatunde (SAN). The jurist has experienced changes in terms of quality of its content and production since it’s first issue. This a welcome development and am hopeful that very soon the Jurist will compete favorably well with other leading and reputable students publication such as Havard Law Review, Honk

Kong Law Review, The Idaho Law Review to mention but few.”

He further said: “We have a strong legal education program, we train our students to begin successful legal careers right here on campus. We offer many opportunities for students to pursue focus areas of study of law. Our legal clinics, proposed externship programmes by our law clinic are among best of any law faculty in the country.The clinical legal education offers our students realworld legal experience.

“It, therefore, no surprise that the recently released report of the Adhoc Committee set up by the council of legal education to investi-

gate the performance of students and faculties at the August 2014 Bar Final Examination adjudge Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin as best and most consistent faculty of law in Nigeria in that report, our faculty came first in the year 2014 and second position for 2012 and 2013 consecutively. We humbled by this achievement and we’ll determined to sustain this pace for long time to come.”

The dean urged the administration of the University to upgrade other facilities in the faculty, calling for urgent attention such as building of a new law library, procurement of relevant online legal databases, provision of projectors in all the classes, among others.

28

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

LAW & SOCIETY

National development: Legal equality and Federal Character principle T

HE role of the law in en suring the development of the society can not be underestimated; law has been described as a binding force by which the society is held together as a single unit which ensures growth and development of the people.

Law should therefore respond to the yearnings and aspirations of the people at all times.

At the birth of the industrialisation era in first world countries, laws were passed to square up with the arising societal and developmental challenges created by industrialisation. This definitely has been one of the bait by which first world countries left the third world countries behind to wallow in penury and backwardness.

Law as the society is transient, dynamically fundamental to national growth and development; but is law in itself the determinant of national development? NO. Law as a tool for national development can not be functional until certain principles are religiously upheld and worshipped and to such class belongs legal equality. The concept of legal equality has stemmed out from the age long philosophy of liberalism; legal equality advocates that everyone is equal before the law.

Anatole France, stated: “in its majestic equality, the law forbids the rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, beg in the streets, and steal loaves of bread”.

This principle has received international affirmation in Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) which states: “All are equal before the law and are entitled without discrimination to equal protection of law”. Thus, the law should not give regards to anyone on the basis of race, gender, nationality, colour, ethnicity, religion and disability.

Legal equality has of necessity involves creation of opportunities for all on merit and not on mediocrity. This principle definitely forms part of the basis for the creation of government as an institution to cater for all citizenry regardless of their place of birth or even economic status. Adherence to this principle should therefore not be compromised by frivolous provisions of the law, law should rather complement legal equality. Law must never be used as a tool to encourage

By Akinpelu Oluwatobi

the creation of inequalities in the society; law must promote equality, which includes but not limited to equal distribution of facilities and amenities, equal access to opportunities and equal treatment of all classes of persons.

Law must be entrenched in legal equality, which is in itself is based on merit and not mediocrity. Every society that is seriously interested in her development must ensure the entrenchment of her laws in equality and not promote any form of mediocrity in her developmental plans. First world countries seem to have long understand this age-long principle of equality and as such entrenched their laws in legal equality; putting away all forms of affirmative actions that tend to slow down their national development.

Affirmative actions was in itself designed to promote the attainment of equality of persons who had either been subjugated by other members of the society or had been discriminated against based on extrinsic factors.

Affirmative action is the policy of favouring members of a disadvantaged group who had suffered from discrimination within a nation in order to accelerate their integration into the society. This principle has been applied in different countries across the globe, from America to Europe, to Asia and even down to Africa. The United Nations through her Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CEAFRD) has given regards to this principle, Article 2.2 stipulates: “States parties shall, when the circumstances so warrant, take, in the social, economic, cultural and other fields, special and concrete measures to ensure the adequate development and protection of certain racial groups or individuals belonging to them, for the purpose of guaranteeing them the full and equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms...”.

This principle would, therefore, be laudable when applied in the appropriate context and not based on some frivolous pretext of ethnically discrimi-

• Oluwatobi

nation. The application of this principle should be corrective; hence once the purpose has been achieved it should be expunged from the laws. A recourse to Article 2.2 CEAFRD, continues by stating “…these measures shall in no case entail as a consequence, the maintenance of unequal or separate rights for different racial groups after the objectives for which they were taken have been achieved”.

In Nigeria, the principles of affirmative actions can be found in the federal character principle, which has also been enshrined in the constitution. Section 14 (3) Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 3rd Alteration states: “The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few state or from a few ethnic or other sectional groups in that Government or in any of its agencies.”

In applying the literal rule in interpreting this provision it would seem that the provision

was put in place to as a preemptive provision against any form of domination by any group of people in Nigeria.

However, the essence of affirmative action is curative and not pre-emptive; such that it is applied in situations where there has been subjugation of another ethnic group within a nation or in cases of gross racial or class discrimination. The purport of the principle is to ensure even development among all classes of citizens in state, after incidence of ethnically subjugation or gross racial discrimination. The provision is not intended to be a lifelong, but temporary has it loses value as soon as that par development has been achieved.

The principles of affirmative actions was never designed to encourage mediocrity has it is been witnessed in Nigeria today at all levels of the society. The composition of public parastatals, appointment into public offices, award of scholarships and even admission into public institutions is now based on the federal character or the quota system. In handing down employment to citizens, people are considered by their state of

origin at the federal level or their local tribe at the state level; the federal ministers must be appointed on the basis of state representation Sec. 143(7) CFRN 1999 3rd alteration; award of scholarship is based on geo-political zones of the applying scholars; while admission into universities is now classified into merit, catchment area, educational disadvantaged states. These are few areas where the federal character is manifestly obvious and causing more attendant problems than the intended national integration. These various forms of affirmative actions are against the provision of Sec. 15(3) CFRN 1999 3rd alteration which declares: “accordingly, national integration shall be actively encouraged, whilst discrimination on the grounds of place of origin, sex, religion, status, ethnic or linguistic association or ties shall be prohibited.” This provision is in tandem with the age-long tradition of legal equality where there is no basis for any sort of subjugation and discrimination. It is obvious that sec. 14(3) and sec.

15(3) CFRN 1999 3rd alteration are in contravention of each other; sec. 14(3)CFRN 1999 3rd alteration promotes the principles of affirmative actions and the resultant effect is the federal character that has led to high level of mediocrity, bribery, corruption and national disintegration.; on the other hand, sec. 15(3)CFRN 1999 3rd alteration provides for legal equality, a merit based decision-making devoid of all forms of discrimination and extrinsic factors.

Any nation that is serious about her national development must as of necessity arise above mediocrity and ensure that decisions are merit based and not on some frivolous classifications.

There has been no incidence in Nigeria that warrants the inclusion of sec. 14(3) into the constitution of Nigeria, no ethnic group has suffered such level of gross discrimination and subjugation that warrants the provision of the federal character into the constitution of Nigeria. In the twenty-first century, this principle of affirmative action is fast becoming obsolete and coun-

tries are committing themselves to a merit system that promotes equality and national development.

Therefore, if Nigeria must make progress the federal character provisions must be expunged from the constitution, the federal character philosophy must give way and all decisions must be based on merit and consideration of national development. Sec. 15 (3) CFRN 1999 3rd alteration could read as follows: “The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the diversity of Nigeria and promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby ensuring that all decisions are based strictly on merit, in fairness and in a transparent procedure by the government or in any of its agencies.” The constitution must also ensure that the provision can be enforced in the court and not just an administrative provision. If Sec. 15 (3) CFRN 1999 3rd alteration is amended to promote a merit based system that is subjected in fairness and transparency, then Nigeria would be on the path to addressing issues that has held her bound in penury, disorderliness and wanton corruption. The spirit of sec. 14(3)CFRN 1999 3rd alteration, which is currently dead would also comeback alive with a new zeal that promotes national development and integration.

Citizens would definitely perform better and believe in prowess more than in their social connection. An equal platform would have been created for all strata of the country to achieve their dreams and contribute to national development. The agelong principle of legal equality would be entrenched not just in words but also in deeds. This principle of legal equality has no doubt paid off in first world countries, who are now severing paths with affirmative actions that tend to hold down their national development. Nigeria must follow suit; Nigeria must wake up to this reality to journey into the economic development and national prosperity.

•Oluwatobi is a Lagos lawyer

Tidewater loses bid to stall suit against it over unpaid taxes, charges

A

N American oil services firm, Tidewater Marine International Incorporated, has lost its bid to stall the hearing of a suit seeking to, among others, compel it to pay outstanding tax liabilities and other statutory charges it allegedly owes some Nigerian agencies.

Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, in a ruling last week, refused the firm’s application for stay of proceedings pending the determination of an interlocutory appeal it filed against an earlier decision of the judge.

The judge, who held that the application by Tidewater lacked merit and that it amounted to a gross abuse of court process, noted that the appeal, for which it sought to stay proceedings, had not been entered and that it failed to seek and obtain the mandatory leave to appeal.

Tidewater’s estranged local partner, PhoenixTide Offshore Nigeria Limited, had initiated the suit in 2013 following alleged refusal by Tidewater, who acted as PhoenixTide’s agent while their business rela-

By Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

tionship lasted, “to make full disclosure and deliver all paper trails on its management and operations, and revenue in US dollar and naira from the plaintiff’s time charter party.”

Other defendants in the suit marked: FHC/L/CS/609/2013 include Tidewater’s agent in Nigeria, Tidex Nigeria Limited, Total E & P Nigeria Limited, Total Upstream Nigerian Limited and Total E & P Deepwater Limited.

The plaintiff averred, in its supporting affidavit, that contrary to the 2011 terms of settlement and non-prosecution agreement it entered with the Nigerian government to operate in the country in accordance with existing laws and regulations, Tidex has allegedly concealed all facts on its operations with the aim of avoiding its tax liabilities and other statutory charges accruable to government agencies.

It stated that the “failure on the part of Tidewater and Tidex to honour their financial obligations, including taxes to rel-

evant agencies of the Federal Government will expose it (PhoenixTide) to the risk of being slammed with criminal charges, which will not be in its the interest.”

PhoenixTide is praying the court to, among others, compel the 1st defendant (Tidewater) to make full disclosure and provide necessary information for the assessment of its tax liabilities and other statutory charges by the relevant government agencies, and an order directing Tidewater to pay its tax liabilities and other statutory charges, as may be assessed by the relevant government agencies, in consultation with, and satisfaction of the plaintiff.

The plaintiff also wants the court to declare that it is entitled to be paid N1, 595,848,985.10 and $3,366,813.30 being payments for the performance of several contracts for the provision of vessels and logistics services entered into by the plaintiff and the 3rd to 5th defendants (Total E & P Nigeria Limited, Total Upstream Nigerian Limited and Total E & P Deepwater Limited).

It equally wants the court to

issue an order, directing Total E & P Nigeria Limited, Total Upstream Nigerian Limited and Total E & P Deepwater Limited to pay to the plaintiff N1, 595,848,985.10 and $3,366,813.30, including all future outstandings, being payment due and outstanding on the performance of several contracts for the provision of vessels and logistics services between the 3rd to 5th defendants and the plaintiff, for the purpose of fulfilling all its obligations and others lawful liabilities.

Justice Abang had in a March 6 ruling dismissed with cost, Tidewater’s preliminary objection to the suit and assumed jurisdiction to hear it, a decision the company claimed to have appealed by neglected to take the necessary accompanying steps.

“In the final analysis, the motion on notice dated May 28, 2013 lacks merit, same is hereby dismissed with cost of N25,000 awarded in favour of the plaintiff, payable by the 1st and 2nd defendants (Tidewater and Tidex),” Justice Abang held in his earlier ruling.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES

TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

PAGE 29

INSIDE A celebration outside Eagle Square

•Displaced women from Shonong taking refuge at a primary school after the attack

Mass graves litter Berom communities in Plateau State, owing to incessant attacks spanning over 10 years. Why do the attacks persist? asks YUSUFU AMINU IDEGU reports

E

VEN as new governments were sworn in at the weekend, gunmen were killing in a Berom community in Plateau State. The attacks were not new; they have lasted over a decade, leaving loud wailing across the ethnic group.

The attackers often swooped on their victims in the dead of night, wiping out large numbers of the residents, mostly women and children.

In the latest attack in Shonong community, Riyom Local Government Area, left hundreds of houses in ruins, while their occupants fled.

In the last one month, over 60 people have been killed in such attacks in Barkin Ladi and Riyom local governments.

Mr. Samson Tsok, the President of Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) said at a briefing in Jos, the state capital: “[A] total of two hundred and two

Why does blood flow in Berom?

(202) human lives mostly women and children have been lost between October 5th, 2014 and May 24th, 2015”.

When the attacks were becoming too frequent, the state government imposed a curfew on the affected local governments. The movement restriction was effective from 10pm to 5am. But three days after, the gunmen changed tactics and started attacking in broad daylight.

Who are the attackers?

Security agents say they are unknown. But the victims say they are Fulani herdsmen.

But why do they attack at all?

The cattle breeders say they are forced to attack in revenge for the theft of their beloved animals.

There is a heavy presence of Fulani cattle breeders in Riyom and Barkin Ladi local governments. Both local governments have three districts each; in each of these districts, the Fulani are dominant in one, while Fulani herdsmen are also found in the backyard of the other two districts in both local governments.

There are other itinerant Fulani who walk the international grazing route passing through Berom communities.

The grazing route is now a subject of controversy before the National As-

‘Cattle breeding and livestock keeping, especially cow grazing, have been the traditional business of the Fulani ethnic group. But as they coexisted, they established a symbiotic relationship, with the Berom even handing over their children to the Fulani to be trained in the techniques of grazing’ sembly. The cattle breeders are claiming rights on grazing routes while the Berom people assert that their farmland cannot be reserved as grazing routes.

Besides the claims and counterclaims over grazing routes, the Fulani and Berom have coexisted for almost a century. However, in the last one decade, they have become cats and dogs.

PAGE 31

A triumphant entry

Cattle breeding and livestock keeping, especially cow grazing, have been the traditional business of the Fulani ethnic group. But as they coexisted, they established a symbiotic relationship, with the Berom even handing over their children to the Fulani to be trained in the techniques of grazing.

The Fulani lived mostly in the bush •Continued on page 30

PAGE 36

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

THE NORTH REPORT

Why does blood flow in Berom?

•Continued from page 25 which is often far away from schools, which is why they also sent their children to schools in Berom communities.

In those good old days, former Bauchi State governor Isa Yuguda, a Fulani, grew up in the hands of a Berom man in Barkin Ladi. Yuguda once said, “When my father was relocating from Jos to Bauchi and I was in school, my father left me in Barkin Ladi in the hand of a Berom man. Under the custody of a Berom man, Yuguda had both his primary and secondary education at Barkin Ladi before joining his father in Bauchi.

Things have changed. Now the Berom and Fulani are sworn enemies. Today, it is either the Berom people are attacking their Fulani neighbours or the Fulani are attacking the Berom. Their frosty relationship got to a level where both of them went as far as seeking mercenaries to attack the other.

But central to the recent attacks is the issue of cattle rustling, a criminal activity that has prevailed in some parts of Plateau State in the last five years. The economic situation in Berom land is such that both ethnic groups keep livestock especially cows. Both ethnic groups rustle cows. It has also been said that that the Fulani also rustle Fulani cows, while the Berom equally steal a fellow Berom’s cattle.

On the other hand, the Berom rustle Fulani cows just as the Fulani also rustle Berom cows. The suspects arrested by security agents for cow rustling included Fulani, Berom as well as other tribes.

According to the Commander of the Special Task Force (STF) on Jos crisis, Major General David Enetie, “Cow rustling has become a lucrative business among the youths of Plateau State; youths in this state have developed the appetite in rustling cows and selling them for money. We consider that as criminal; this is different from the Jos crisis that we know, so all these attacks are no longer about Jos crisis; it is a newfound crime in the state.

So each time you hear of an attack, there is cattle rustling behind it. If there is no cattle rustling, you will not hear of attacks.”

The understanding of many in the state has been that since it is the Fulani that are always suspected to be the attackers, it then means the victims of the attacks are the ones feeding on Fulani cows. This suspicion grew in the recent attacks in some Berom communities. The STF revealed that some cattle rustlers

went to a Fulani settlement in Jos East and stole 400 cows. The criminals were reportedly in four groups. But the owner of the cows called STF distress line, prompting the security agents to respond immediately.

“STF followed the routes of the criminals and encountered them in a gun duel. We killed four of the criminals and recovered 280 cows. But then the Fulani thanked us and said they knew where the remaining 120 cows were and that they would go and look for the remaining cows. The Fulani knew the cows were taken to Foron village in Barkin Ladi LGA, that was the reason for the attack in Foron the next day” Just as the STF commander puts it, “Some people will be condemning STF for not stopping the attacks or arrest the attackers. But people are not condemning the criminality. We have prevented several attacks in these local government but people don’t know this. If we follow up and recover rustled cows, you will not hear of attacks, but if cows are rustled and they are not recovered the owners of the cows have a way of discovering those who stole his cows and they go out for them.

The Nation found out that most communities are not ready to take responsibility for their own security.

Enetie said, “We keep preaching to the people to be vigilant at all times, we encourage them to set up local community groups to guard their environment day and night, but in most cases, the natives drink in the day and sleep carelessly at night to the extent that given any attack, the people are already weak to put up any challenge considering the way they drink in the day.

“Some of people are not sensitive to their own environment; how will you know when the enemy comes and already you know you are living with the enemy?”

The STF at times, deliberately refused to respond when they got distress calls because they expected the leaders of the communities to caution their youths from feeding on Fulani cows.

The STF said they believe that when the youths are going after the cows, the leaders pretend not to be aware, but when the Fulani came after those who steal the cows, it becomes a security issue. There will be no need for distress calls if the youths stop hunting for Fulani cows. In other words it is jungle justice meeting criminality.

The Berom insist that the attacks by their Fulani neighbours have nothing to do with cow rustling. They swore the youths never hunt for Fulani cows.

The chairman of Riyom Local Government Area, Mrs. Josephine Piyo

•Displaced Shonong women at a camp in Riyom

•STF Commander Major Gen David Enetie

•Governor Simon Lalong

said, “The allegation of the cattle rustling against the Berom youths cannot be true; rather, it is the Fulani that do steal cow belonging to the natives.

Before now, a lot of Berom people bred cows, but today the Berom cannot keep cows again, their stock have been stolen by the Fulani. As if that is not enough, they attack our people without reason.”

The chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Hon Emmanuel Loman also said, “These attacks by the Fulani are unprovoked; I have spent time and resources to ensure peace reign in my local government but after achieving relative peace for a moment, we will hear another attack by Fulani. I don’t know what the Fulanis are looking for. I mean this insecurity in Berom land is becoming protracted and devastating; the federal government needs to also give maximum attention. They are giving

to North East to Plateau North Senatorial zone. I said so because since 2010, more than 10,000 Berom people have been killed by unknown gunmen; we keep crying out but the federal government seems not to take us serious. We have done within our own local power to stop these incessant attacks, the state government have equally done a lot, so what is required now is mass deployment of federal troops to the areas” said Hon Loman Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), formerly Berom Youth Movement has also said the reasons for Fulani attacks on their people goes beyond cattle rustling. The group’s national chairman, Mr. Samson Tsok while briefing press men in Jos over the crisis said, “We strongly believe that, the relentless guerrilla attacks and isolated killings that have been experienced in Berom Land since 2001

‘Things have changed. Now the Berom and Fulani are sworn enemies. Today, it is either the Berom people are attacking their Fulani neighbours or the Fulani are attacking the Berom.

Their frosty relationship got to a level where both of them went as far as seeking mercenaries to attack the other’

reveals a strategic character and placement within a wider framework designed to eliminate, displace and disposes the Berom from their ancestral and God-given land.

The Berom youth leader continued, “It has come to the knowledge of the Berom that the Fulani are assiduously and relentlessly fighting the Berom in order to violently create illegal grazing reserves and to achieve political territory in the fashion of Boko Haram. Already, the Fulani have forcibly expelled and dislodged the Berom from the boundary areas of Bachi, Gashish, and Jol (Mahanga) in Barkin Ladi/ Riyom LGAs and well as Jos East and Mangu Local Government areas respectively.

“Special Task Force (STF) personnel on ground have failed to address the problem because some of them are accomplices in the crime against the Berom people, alleging that they are sometimes hired to perpetrate the crime or bribed to turn a blind eye when these attacks are carried out.

“Mercenaries have been hired from Chad and Niger to come and fight against the Berom in their land,” he added.

He also alleged that “It is also believed that there are terrorists training camps somewhere in Gashish, Bachi and Riyom districts. The Nigerian government and indeed the world should not stand aloof or turn a blind eye to the heinous crimes being perpetrated against the Berom. BYM demand justice, peace, and security for the people living and working in Berom land and Plateau state” he concluded.

But the questions that remain on everyone’s lip in the state is, why only in Berom land we here of Fulani attacks. Apart from the issue of cow rustling, The Nation found out that the protracted violent conflict in Berom land is a struggle over land between the Berom farmers and Fulani cattle breeders. The Fulani cattle breeders have been laying claims to a grazing reserve in Berom land. The Fulani claimed there is an international grazing route which passed through Berom land. They also believed that some of the Berom communities are settling and farming on their grazing route. With this belief, any farm or human settlement seen to causing obstruction to ‘free grazing’ of the Fulanis, they will devour it.

But Hon Daniel Dem, member representing Riyom constituency in Plateau house of assembly argued that even if the cause of the violence is over grazing routes, killings cannot be the solution, it is matter that can be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding. “In any case, in all our peace parley the Fulani leaders have never complain about grazing reserve, so I don’t think that is part the reasons why they are attacking our people.

•Cows are often rustled in Berom communities, leading to attacks

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

Page 31

•Motorcyclists celebrating President Muhammadu Buhari’s inauguration

The Eagle Square hosted a momentous event on Friday but in places far removed from the venue, residents celebrated the inauguration of President Muhammadu Buhari. GRACE OBIKE reports

T

HE thrill of the inauguration of President Muhammadu Buhari was beyond the confines of the Eagles Square where it held. There were colourful parades and the ubiquitous security personnel at the Square, but, really, wasn’t the whole event not just about speeches and more speeches?

Abuja offered more outside the Square.

Being that it was a public holiday, some people stayed back home, while a lot more queued up at the filling stations.

However, in Kubwa, for example, motorcycle riders, sachet water sellers and Almajiri boys staged their own celebration which started very early in the morning. Some screamed and

A celebration outside Eagle Square drove at break-neck speed while holding unto the Nigerian flag and brooms and screaming Sai Baba.

Over 200 motorcycle riders took over the expressway. Some stood or lay on their fast-speeding bikes, holding their flags and chanting sai Buhari. Another group from Galadima, which mostly comprised of the Almajiri, water sellers and others, brandished flags and brooms, heading for the Square. Some danced to the tune of their traditional music blaring over the radio.

At the roundabout beside the Eagle Square, over 1000 young men and women carried Nigerian and the All Progressive Congress (APC) flags and while some danced with brooms, others drove round in cars with the occupants standing out of the windows and doors, waving their brooms. Some dabbed their entire bodies with paints that may take a while to wash out. They held their brooms, danced and swept the road.

‘Today is historical because money politics has come to an end, it is going to be good for citizens to seat up and create opportunities for ourselves and make the change that we want to see but our new President on his part needs to secure the nation, we need to get rid of Bok Haram that have done enough havoc and end corruption’ The chant on their lips was Sai Buhari, with a mischievous few chanting Sai Otuoke. Even after the inauguration and the President’s departure from the Square, they still gathered at their position, causing serious traffic gridlock and preventing vehicles that where mostly driving into the Hilton for the second phase of the celebration from driving pass freely especially without acknowledging them in some

way.

The few individuals and tribes that were able to make it to the Unity Fountain also set up their banners, celebrating with a few cultural dance troops with different banners welcoming who most of them termed the people’s General.

Mariam Ikwunaye told Abuja Review that citizens of Nigeria should be ready to create the change that

we need and not just sit back and wait for the President to change us when the citizens themselves refuse to change “Today is historical because money politics has come to an end, it is going to be good for citizens to seat up and create opportunities for ourselves and make the change that we want to see but our new President on his part needs to secure the nation, we need to get rid of Bok Haram that have done enough havoc and end corruption.

“I am here because I want to be part of the citizens who are going to take what we call oat of citizenry, even though Nigeria needs a good leader, we also want good followers, so Buharian culture is here today to inaugurate all citizens who will take a pledge to be good citizens.”

The man who trekked from Lagos to Abuja, Suleiman Hashimu who have come to be known all over as the trekker and joined celebrators at the unity fountain explained that although he was at the square but was unable to meet with the President one on one, who hoped to meet with him soon because he has a lot to discuss with him. “I hope to meet with the President because I have a lot to discuss with him.”

•Continued on page 34

VIO threatens clampdown on illegal car marts, unlicensed taxis

T

HE Federal Capital Territory Directorate of Road Traffic Services has threatened to clamp down on illegal car marts and unlicensed commercial vehicles in the territory.

The Service popularly known as Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) said it will also rid the FCT

From Olugbenga Adanikin

of illegal mechanic shops in the city centre as well as illegal car park operations.

In a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Kenneth Iloduba in Abuja, the operators of illegal transportation busi-

ness were advised to comply with the necessary requirements.

Those involved in unlawful car mart business and mechanic workshops were urged to relocate to the temporary site allocated to them by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

According to the service, commercial tricycle riders should ad-

here to route regulations to avoid wrath of the law.

“All operators of this mode of transportation are hereby advised to restrain their activities to satellite towns and area councils.

“This is important to note in mind that there will be no release of any impounded motorcycle and tricycle

impounded by officers of the road traffic service.”

The Service however urged residents to understand that it is their duty to ensure decorum and decency on the road to enable FCT achieve the 2020 global projection of an accidentfree city.

32

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

34

ABUJA REVIEW

Celebration outside Eagle Square •Continued from page 31 He said. “I believe that it will be possible for me to meet with him because he knows about me, to be honest, I did not trek because I wanted to be popular but because it was a promise that I made with God that if President Buhari wins, then I will trek and so when he won, I decided to fulfil the promise because of the love that I have for Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, now that he has been inaugurated, I believe that he will work on the insecurity because with security in the country, people will come to invest in this country which will provide employment and I believe that Gen. Buhari will do it.”

Elvis Yungurung told Abuja Review that it feels like Nigeria is just gaining independence.

He said, “It’s a great day, marvellous day for me personally and then for our country; it feels like we are just getting independence now because we have a very important change, in government, system and mindset and this is a change that we actualised collectively; it wasn’t given to us out of charity, it was something we fought for and then we got it and today it has been formerly handed to us.

“My belief is that the change has come and we are going to live the change and we are going to fix this country, we are going to fix our future, we are going to have a country that we are going to be proud of so I will just say to the President that he has to remain focused because, I know he has the vision, I know he knows what he is up to, so all I can say to him is to remain strong and focused and we Nigerians bear as much responsibility in fixing this country as much as the president does so we need to live up to our own end of the obligation, it is a collective effort the citizens have a role in fixing the country, it is not just the president.”

Ibrahim Ado, one of the boys carrying brooms and jubilating, said that he is excited because he believes that the President will provide him

•Residents relish the joy of Buhari’s inauguration

with a job at last, “I am here very excited because Buhari is being sworn in as President, I am just happy because it is Buhari and I have waited for this day for a very long time, now that Buhari is here, he will do us good, everyone will get a job by the grace of God, I am quite hopeful God will bring confusion to the camp of those trying to ruin Gen. Buhari’s reign I can assure you.”

State volunteer superintendent of Nigerian Youth Volunteer Service, Anambra chapter, Hon. Ruth Okeke, who is part of the group that marched to the square to support the event, told Abuja Review, that they had come to Abuja to align with the policies of the President on Youth development. Her words, “We are so excited today, we arrived since 7am and as you can see

I

‘My belief is that the change has come and we are going to live the change and we are going to fix this country, we are going to fix our future, we are going to have a country that we are going to be proud of so I will just say to the President that he has to remain focused’ people have been celebrating since then. From what can be seen from the Transcorp Junction where over 2000 people have gathered to cel-

ebrate because we believe that he is going to really make the change.

This government has to come down to the grassroots, until their is youth

development and pilot schemes for the youth, their is no way that we can move forward because the last government has stampeded the country, we want real change on the group and not lip service.”

Even though most people that went into town on that day where excited, not all of the approved of the level of jubilation that was being exhibited by some of the supporters.

Taxi driver John Adewale said that most of the boys were just risking their lives for no reason.

He said, “These boys are just risking their lives for nothing, see how they are driving around, it’s very risky, Buhari has warned them not to trek for him or do all of this. Now if they die or are injured, no one will care about them, they need to celebrate with care.”

Resettlement: Indigenes caution on omission of names

NDIGENES of Garki village in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have cautioned the authorities of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) against tampering

By Igho Oyoyo

with the original supplementary list submitted to the authority by the leaders of the community.

•Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka (middle) riding a bicycle to the last Federal Executive Council PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE Meeting of President Jonathan in Abuja

The natives, who spoke through the Magajin Garki, Joel Yazegbe, after a petition was submitted to the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), alleged that they have been reliably informed that the FCDA officials are contemplating a foul play to omit some original names submitted by the leaders, with intention to replace them with names submitted by FCDA officials.

Yazegbe said, “We write to warn the FCDA officials to desist from any act that is capable of tarnishing the image of the FCDA. We have read in recent reports of the last minutes secret allocations and racketeering business carried out by the FCDA, in conjunction with AGIS, using part of the resettlement areas to compensate the FCT minister Sen. Bala Mohammed’s friends and cronies.

“We are aware that such areas are meant to be allocated to the indigenes whose names were not captured in the last ressetlement exercise of the Garki community. On this note, we will not accept any development whereby the areas made for supplementary list in Apo Resettlement will use for personal or selfish gains.

“We will no longer tolerate further omissions of names or tempering the agreement reached by the early committee set up by the

FCTA and headed by the minister of state Olajumoke Akinjide. We advise that the record should be set straight and every documents concerning the issue of the Garki Resettlement should be properly handed over the incoming administration,” he stated.

The natives further appealed to the incoming government to carry the indigenes along in policies and decision and policies that affect them directly and the government should also revisit the idea behind the allocation of numerous estates in the FCT without human beings living inside them.

“We want the incoming administration to ignore any document that is not properly presented by the indigenes of the FCT. If the any issue concerning the Indigenes should be presented to the incoming administration, let it be by the collective agreement of the indigenes, not some crooks using the fake associations of the original inhabitants to deceive the any government in power in the detriment of our people.

The natives further advise the president-elect to beware of groups or persons who uses the name of original inhabitants to deceive any government in power against the real wish and aspirations of the FCT natives.

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

35

ABUJA REVIEW

D

ESPITE the fuel shortage challenges, schools and other public institutions marked the Children’s Day. But to the less privileged kids at the Abuja Children’s Home, Karu, the day held no promise until members of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Abuja Chapter paid them a visit.

On arrival, Naimat Suleiman, a Nursery 1A pupil at the Abuja Children Home, caught the attention of the NIPR executives. She relies solely on help from people for her mobility. Why? The sixyear-old is handicapped. Yet, she was in a little brawl with her friend clearly because she wanted her friend to stop playing and pick her book and do her homework.

Perhaps, she felt work should precede play. But for the swift intervention of one of the officials of the NIPR, the exchange of words between the little kids would have lasted longer.

At last both parties accepted truce ushered by the NIPR executive. The crisis management was further complemented with bags of rice, noodles, biscuits, drinks brought for the children to celebrate their special day.

Among other items were detergents, clothing materials, plastic buckets, Sharpview Multisystem television with Startimes Antenna, decoder with subscription.

Abuja Review gathered that the essence of the visit was to give the children a sense of belonging and not being left out of the fun

NIPR fetes orphans

From Gbenga Adanikin

which their able-bodied counterparts would have taken for granted.

Some of the pupils were sighted at recreation field within the premises playing with their regular toys. But it’s common knowledge that Children’s Day celebration is always busy with different activities lined up to make it remarkable.

Aside from the annual students’ parade, there are also athletic events, dance, performances from voluntary organisations such as Boys Scouts, Man ‘O’ War among others. Boys Brigades also displays their artistic beats of drums. These arrays of presentations definitely create exciting but lasting memory in the mind of the children.

According to the NIPR FCT Chairman, Ohaeri Osondu in his opening remarks, the NIPR considered it necessary to visit the orphanage. He said the visit was in compliance with the principle of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) which the body strongly believes such that organisations should give back to their host community. He observed that most parents would take their kids to the Zoo, amusement parks or a special place but the less privilege children have no option than to be in door. “We

‘We looked at our programme and we realise our immediate neigbour on a day like this happens to be Abuja children home. We felt the need to come with clothing, medical items. We also came with Television and decoder so that we can expand their horizon about their society and the outside world’ see it as symbolic in the sense that as we are marking the children’s day…..some of our parents have the opportunity to take their children out for recreational activities. They visit one refreshment joint or another but for us in NIPR, we hold tenaciously to the principle of corporate social responsibility. You strive to impact on your immediate neighbor.

“We looked at our programme and we realise our immediate neigbour on a day like this happens to be Abuja children home.

We felt the need to come with clothing, medical items. We also

came with Television and decoder so that we can expand their horizon about their society and the outside world.

“We came to see how we can impact on the children’s lives because we strongly believe that whatever we are doing now for our children, they should also transcend beyond our homes because nobody knows the person who will stand out as future leader of this country. It could be from this home.

“So for us in NIPR, we felt the need to do it for the good of our nation, Nigeria.” Earlier, members of the institute were con-

Remarkable day for kids I

T was not sweets and music.

On Children’s Day, kids in Gbaupe communityin the

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) got books, free health care and, of course, food and lots of other valuables.

They had a non-governmental organisation (NGO) SAM Empowerment Foundation (SEF) to thank for that.

The organisation launched a multi-million naira empowerment programme in the community with a message that encouraged the children to live exemplary lives in their community.

Founder of SEF Dr. Aishat

‘Children are gifts from God. We have the responsibility to cater for their needs and to also nurture them to maturity. We have come today as a special day to celebrate with you all in our own little way. I urge you all to be exemplary in your studies in order to be better citizens of this great country tomorrow’ From Grace Obike

Achimugu said that the dream of every parent is to see their chil-

dren excelling in various endeavours. She also urged the children to adhere to societal values as a yardstick to a brighter future.

•Executive Director, Editorial Matters, News Agency Of Nigeria (NAN) Malam Lawal Ado (right), welcoming the Executive Director, UNFPA, Dr Babatunde Osotimehin, during his visit to the agency in Abuja. With them are, UNFPA country representative in Nigeria, Mrs Ratidzai Ndlovu (second right) and Assistant Editor-in-Chief/UNFPA focal NAN officer, Muhammad Tola.

She said, “Children are gifts from God. We have the responsibility to cater for their needs and to also nurture them to maturity.

We have come today as a special day to celebrate with you all in our own little way. I urge you all to be exemplary in your studies in order to be better citizens of this great country tomorrow.”

In the course of the visit, the NGO medical personnel conducted medical screening and treatment on some members of the community with the promise to equip the Gbaupe Community Health centre to meet the modern standard.

Responding, the Etsu of

ducted round the premises to have a view of the composition of the home. They moved from the hostels to the day care center, the school, the mosque among other facilities. The auditorium is equipped with multimedia facility. So, the chairman sought the opportunity to commend the FCT administration.

“Something good is happening in this home. The environment is hygienically taken care of so that the children can have good mentoring and psychological development.”

Nevertheless, despite the commendations, more so, from the administrator of the orphanage, Alhaji Sulaiman Umar, there was call to maintain the structures.

Umar also requested for more supports asking other corporate organisations to imitate kind gesture of the NIPR. He said they were faced with challenges of power, water and some basic needs. While acknowledging the present friction in the nation’s economy, he noted that the children were innocent and should not be made to under poor living conditions.

“I am basically happy with this.

I love these children. These children are for all Nigerians. Definitely some will be in great gov•Continued on page 36

Gbaupe, Mallam Danjuma Gareje commended the gesture of SAM Foundation for reaching out to the community at a time the people are clamouring for government attention in the areas of health, energy supply, education and accessible roads.

Gareje assured that the items distributed will be channeled judiciously to meet it purposes while calling on government not to relent in the task of giving back to the people the dividend of democracy by alleviating the plight of the less privilege in the society.

There are side attractions from the children, like news casting, cultural and comical display, match pass, music interlude, dancing, cutting of cake, women empowerment and many more.

•Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Boboye Oyeyemi (left) National Chairman, Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Dr Kassim Bataiya and acting Head of Department, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Chineye Egwuonwu at a stakeholders meeting on the deadline for speed limiters in Abuja PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

36

ABUJA REVIEW

P

RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo formally took over the reigns of power at the Eagle Square, Abuja on Friday and triumphantly gained entrance to the seat of power.

Buhari had to wait for 12 years from 2003 before his glorious entry to Aso Rock as the next occupant of the Presidential Villa.

He was not deterred after he lost the presidential elections in 2003, 2007 and 2011, until he won the 2015 Presidential election by beating former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Buhari said: “I am immensely grateful to God who has preserved us to witness this day and this occasion. Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy.

“Nigerians have shown their commitment to democracy and are determined to entrench its culture. Our journey has not been easy but thanks to the determination of our people and strong support from friends abroad we have today a truly democratically elected government in place.”

He did not fail to thank former President Jonathan for displaying statesmanship in conceding defeat in the aftermath of the March 28 Presidential election.

Buhari also thanked millions of his supporters who believed in him and the All Progressives Congress (APC) by trooping out for hours in the rain and hot sunshine to register and cast their votes.

Believing that they have contributed to make Nigeria’s democratic culture truly competitive, strong and definitive, the President also thanked Nigerians who did not vote for him during the election.

Buhari thanked African and world leaders for their support to the emergence of the new government.

Reassuring that he will not witch-hunt anybody, he said: “A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue.”

President Buhari has promised to introduce some economic strategies and to tackle corruption head-on, which has been eating deeply into the national treasury.

He has singled out agriculture and mining towards creating jobs for the unemployed youth who form more than 60 per cent of the population.

Buhari has also unveil his plans to seek the support of Europe, U.S. and Nigeria’s neighbours towards the country’s development, especially in the areas of tackling the unemployment and

A triumphant entry security problems confronting the nation.

“I ask Nigerians to please bear with us; a lot of damage has been done,” Buhari pleaded with Nigerians.

Recognising the role played by the Nigerian masses in the emergence of the Buhari government, the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, during the Gala Night at the Presidential Villa on Friday described them as the heroes of the moment.

He said: “Money and open privilege, despite heavy inducement to move otherwise, the people were not induced or intimidated. The people voted for their better destiny at last election. The average Nigerian, decent, hardworking, unseen and anonymous, they voted.

“They are the heroes of this glorious moment. Without their faith in democracy and belief in better future, this election would not have been had and we will not be celebrating the inauguration of a new president tonight.”

“Congratulations to millions of Nigerians at home and abroad. congratulations to Africa, Nigeria is ready to lead.” He added With the change in government, not a few Nigerians are anxiously waiting and hoping for urgent betterment of their livelihood.

There is no doubt that the cooperation and support of all Nigerians are needed to back up the new administration to succeed and de-

NIPR fetes orphans •Continued from page 35

ernment positions because they are talented. So what we need to do is to help them in the right way. They need love and perfection like every other child in this country. So I am very happy with the gesture of the NIPR. I appreciate them and I look forward to other people coming to support orphanage home or child care institution across the country.”

According to him, the donations will make great impacts in running activities of the orphanage. “There have been some hardships lately just like around the country. So they can go to school with the snacks and food items in their lunch boxes.

He commended the FCT Minister, Sen. Bala Mohammed for the renovation of the entire premises. “You can see around that the home has been renovated. The houses and everywhere has been renovated to international standard. But everything boils down to finance. We need many things to maintain this home such as human, medical, electricity, water bill, cars, staff maintenance even building.”

Members of the institute eventually took pictures with the kids as well as management of the home.

“I am privileged and humbled to be found worthy to be the Vice President of this great nation by a great leader, democrat, peace ambassador and patriot of our time,” he said.

From the Villa

Canvassing Jonathan’s return in 2019

By Augustine Ehikioya liver the goods to all.

While the new government is bringing changes on board, Nigerians themselves have been urged to also change their ways for good.

Bidding Nigerians goodbye Former President Goodluck Jonathan at almost every public function he attended before his government expired last Friday had taken the opportunities to bid Nigerians goodbye.

His cabinet also did the same during the administration’s valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) session last Wednesday.

All the ministers in attendance spoke and commended Jonathan’s leadership style.

They were also full of praises to him for the opportunity he gave

them to serve their country.

Speaking at the occasion, immediate past Vice President Namadi Sambo said: “His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan found me worthy to be his running mate twice, first in 2011 when we were returned with an overwhelming majority to emerge victorious at the election and in 2015 where we encountered some electoral misfortunes.

“I can recall confidently that I had neither canvassed nor lobbied to be appointed the Vice President at any point in time except that Mr. President found me worthy to support him in steering the ship of state.

This is a clear demonstration and proof of the confidence Mr. President reposed in me in the discharge of my onerous responsibility of my office to the best of my ability.

Some immediate past members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) have started drumming support for the return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to the number one seat during 2019 Presidential election.

The Minister of State for Niger Delta, Awal Bappa, during last Wednesday’s FEC valedictory session, predicted that Jonathan would return to office in 2019 following the footsteps of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari who returned to office many years after they were heads of state.

She stressed that the only difference would be that Jonathan would wait for only four years rather than decades before coming back.

Minister of Defence, Aliyu Gusau, in his contribution, also concurred with Bappa that Jonathan would indeed be back to office as president soon.

But Jonathan, when he had opportunity to speak during the session, was silent on the yearning of these former ministers.

•Right to left: FCT Chapter Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ohaeri Osondu presenting some items to the Administrator, Abuja Children’s Home Karu, Sulaiman Sa’aid during the Institute’s Charity visit to the home to mark the 2015 Children’s day.

With them is the Vice Chairman, Tunde Oladapo

37

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

LAW & SOCIETY

Legal framework for prevention of terrorism Being the text of a lecture delivered by a Judge of the Kogi State High Court, Justice Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye, at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lokoja Branch Annual Bar Week.

•Continued from last week

H

E remained the spiritual leader of Boko Haram until 2009 when he was killed in extra-judicial circumstances. Boko Haram came into limelight in 2009 when it sparked off an uprising by the refusal of its members in Maiduguri to wear helmets, while riding motor cycles, as required by a motorbike helmet law of Borno State. This generated a conflict between members of the sect and policemen that attempted to enforce the law. The violence that erupted as a result of this conflict left over 1000 people dead. The violence soon spread to other major cities of Bauchi, Potiskum, Kano and Wudi.

In Maiduguri alone, where several churches, a police station and a prison were set ablaze, over 700 people were killed. The uprising was eventually crushed by the police and military, leaving the sect’s headquarters and mosque in ruins.

In the aftermath of the July 2009 unrest, Mohammed Yusuf, the leader of Boko Haram was killed. He was captured by the army and passed to the police for interrogation. He died in police custody. It is alleged that he was killed extrajudicially. Upon the demise of Yusuf, the sect members went underground and resurfaced with brutal dispositions and determination.

Thereafter, Abubakar Shekau emerged the leader of the sect. Boko Haram gathered more momentum under him and became very ruthless, as it was determined to avenge the brutal killing of its leader, Yusuf. Since then, the sect has embarked on the mission of committing heinous offences such as gruesome mass killings of defenceless innocent people, including women, children and bystanders by bombing. The sect soon transformed into a terrorist organisation. The remark of President Jonathan on the activities of Boko Haram since 2009 is worthy of recapitulation here. In a speech delivered at the regional summit on security held in France in 2014, he stated thus: Since 2009, we have had to contend with many attacks and killings, which have now developed into a full-scale war targeting the stability and integrity of our nation. Boko Haram has launched a vicious guerrilla-style campaign against the government and the people of Nigeria. It has attacked schools, slaughtered students in their dormitories, destroyed villages, communities and government infrastructure and has wreaked havoc on the economic and social life of our people. This unconventional war has so far claimed over 12,000 lives, with more than 8, 000 persons injured or maimed, not to mention the displacement of thousands of innocent Nigerians’’ (n.p.)

But then, it is on record that Boko Haram was allowed to operate as a legitimate organization over the years. It was only in June 2013 that Jonathan administration, belatedly, in my view, declared Boko Haram and Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis Sudan also known as Ansaru proscribed organizations.

The brutal manner by which Mohammed Yusuf was killed has been advanced as one of the factors that stemmed up Boko Haram insurgency.

According to Sandra Ivanov (2014), the clashes that resulted in the killing of Mohammed Yusuf in 2009 marked a significant turning point which cemented Boko Haram choice of use of violence.

Yusuf was said to have been assaulted, brutalized and dehumanised before he was killed, extra judicially. Consequently, many members of the sect were determined to avenge the unfair circumstances surrounding the death. In a way, Boko Haram insurgency exemplifies the tragedy one singular act of impunity can cause a nation. The lesson to be learnt is clear: impunity should never be encouraged. Security agencies should endeavour to observe the basic tenets of the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights in the treatment of suspects in their custody. The observation of Professor Akin Oyebode on this point is apt and instructive: “…where and when every member of society is assured of his day in court, there would be no room or justification for terrorist acts. However, denial of justice and resort to terrorist acts by the government itself could well provide muchneeded ammunition to forces that do not wish it well and who may now insist on a policy of “fighting fire with fire.”

To be sure, violence is not particularly strange to Nigeria. The history of Nigeria is replete with record of violence. There have been instances of skirmishes recorded in one part of the country or another over the years, consisting of ethno-reli-

gious clashes, inter-ethnic violence, intra-ethnic conflicts and religious crises. Interestingly, however, before the advent of Boko Haram insurgency, none of the acts of violence or anarchism perpetrated in Nigeria which caused the deaths of thousands of innocent victims was characterised as terrorism. For instance, there were the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) and the Niger Delta Peoples Volunteer Force which held Nigeria spellbound for a period over three years by their violent acts. The militant groups killed, maimed and kidnapped innocent citizens. They attacked petroleum operations in Nigeria and engaged in other criminal activities such as guerrilla warfare, sabotage, theft and destruction of property. There were also the Maitatsine riot of 1980, Odi massacre of November 20, 1999 in which a whole village was razed to the ground and over 2,500 people died Yelwa massacre of 2014, a religiously motivated killing that claimed the lives of 700 people. Each of these violent acts was treated and described as either “militancy”, or “extremism” or uprising”, or “riots”.

Unarguably, the horrendous dimension of violence being ventilated and perpetrated by Boko Haram is novel and alarming. This has created a climate of fear and insecurity in the entire land.

2014 marked the height of Boko Haram brutalities. The frequency and fury of atrocities of the insurgents in that year have been shocking. The fundamentalists were more ruthless in their onslaughts not only on the civilian population but also on military installations and personnel. They became increasingly dangerous and daring. They also heightened the scope and sophistication of their operations. It was in that year that members of the sect kidnapped over 270 school girls at a village called Chibok on April 14, 2014. Of all the crimes the insurgents have committed, none has traumatised the country quite like the abduction of those girls. The girls, aged between 16 and 18 were preparing to write exams when they were taken from school hostels late at night. About 50 of them escaped. Others have remained in Boko Haram captivity for a period of over twelve months now. It is thought that the militants initially took the girls to Sambisa forest. Subsequent reports, however, suggest that some may have been trafficked into neighbouring countries of Chad, Niger and Cameroon, and forced to marry.

A new dimension is also added to Boko Haram insurgency as it is confirmed that insurgents in that same year embarked on a mission of conquering part of Nigeria’s territory. At a point, it is reported that about 20,000 square miles of Nigerian territory was under the firm control of Boko Haram with the main object of declaring such conquered territory a ‘Caliphate’ .

Statutory definition of terrorism in Nigeria Terrorism is one word that does not render itself to easy definition. Indeed, there is a consensus of opinions of writers, scholars, researchers, policy makers and even the media that terrorism is difficult to define H. H. A. Cooper (2013) notes that there has never been since the topic began to command serious attention, some golden age in which terrorism was easy to define. So, the debate of what terrorism is has become perennia The unalterable truth remains that there are hundreds of definitions of terrorism in existence.

Given this scenario, it is acceptable to simply say that there can be as many definitions as there are people defining terrorism. By and large, the meaning ascribed to the word is a reflection of a person’s perspectives, background and philosophy.

The definitional ambiguities embedded in the word ‘terrorism’ are encapsulated in the popular cliché; one man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter, which immediately suggests the lack of consensus in determining who should be designated a terrorist or what act should be considered terrorist act. The lack of some kind of generic definition of terrorism that can serve as a common reference point for countries has created a situation in which each country has its own definition of terrorism and proceeds to determine those it wishes to call terrorists or freedom fighters.

The scope of this paper does not permit an excursion into the numerous definitions of terrorism by scholars, writers, jurists, and the media e.t.c., as I am limited by time and space. I shall, therefore, restrict myself to the statutory definition of the concept in Nigeria. The TPA (as amended) carefully avoids the definition of terrorism, as a concept. Rather, it defines ‘acts of terrorism’. I should think that the definition of

• IGP Solomon Aranse terrorism is contextually important, because only an offence that meets such a definition falls under the strictures of the law. In a sense, the definition establishes the threshold of terrorism. This is particularly so, as the word terrorism appears sixtyeight times in the TPA 2011 (as amended). While it is agreed that there is no globally accepted definition of terrorism, it is on record that many countries proceed to provide definitions in their statutes.

The statutory definition of terrorism in Nigeria remains Section 46 of the EFCC (Establishment) Act 2004. It provides: (a) any act which is a violation of the Criminal Code or the Penal and which may endanger the life, physical integrity or freedom of, or cause serious injury or death to, any person, any number or group of persons or causes or may cause damage to public property, natural resources, environmental or cultural heritage and is calculated or intended to (i) intimidate, put in fear, force, coerce, or induce any government, body, institution, the general public or any segment thereof, to do or abstain from doing any act or to adopt or abandon a particular standpoint, or to act according to certain principles, or (ii) disrupt any public service, the delivery of any essential service to the public or to create a public emergency, or (iii) create general insurrection in a state.

Any promotion, sponsorship of, contribution to, command, aid incitement, encouragement, attempt, threat, conspiracy, organisation or procurement of any person, with the intent to commit any act referred to in paragraph (a) (i), (ii), and (iii).

To me, this definition is vague and excessively broad. It is unclear, particularly, in the articulation of the elements of the crime of terrorism. For instance, what is an act “that is a violation of the Criminal Code or the Penal Code which may endanger the life of any person? In clauses (i) (ii) and (iii), any act that is calculated or intended to intimidate, put fear or force or coerce any government a body or institution e.t.c. to do any act or to adopt or abandon a particular standpoint or to act certain principles or disrupt any public service, the delivery of any essential service will amount to terrorism. By the definition of terrorism under Section 46 of the EFCC Act, it means doctors and nurses who provide essential services cannot embark on strike actions. One danger of a broad definition as contained under EFCC ACT is that it opens doors of abuse and can be utilised by oppressive regimes for political games.

Terrorist Acts

Section 1(3) of the TPA (as amended) defines an “act of terrorism” as an act which is deliberately done with malice aforethought and which may seriously harm or damage a country or an international organisation. Any act also amounts to terrorism when it is done deliberately with malice aforethought and is intended to unduly compel a government or international organisation to perform or abstain from performing any act. A

‘The truth remains that none of the penal laws mentions terrorism as an offence at all, in the way murder or culpable homicide is mentioned.

Only some aspects of terrorism are covered in the criminal law which will not give terrorism the emphasis and due attention it deserves’

terrorist act is committed when done with the requisite intent, it seriously destabilises or destroy the fundamental political, constitutional economic or social structures of a country or international organisation by intimidation or coercion. It also amounts to a terrorist act where it involves or causes an attack upon a person’s life that possibly results in serious bodily harm or death. Intimidating or coercing a government or international organisation is a terrorist act where it involves or causes: the kidnapping of a person, or destruction of a government a public facility, or private property, amongst others. This is, particularly, so where the act is likely to endanger human life or result in major economic loss.

There is an omnibus provision which criminalises and treats as terrorist act “any act or omission in or outside Nigeria which constitutes an offence within the scope of a counter- terrorism protocols and conventions duly ratified by Nigeria. An act which disrupts a service but is committed in pursuance of a protest is also a terrorist act. However, strikes and demonstration are excluded from the definition of terrorist acts, provided they are not intended to result in any harm referred to in subsection (2) (b) (i), (ii) or (iv). The harm referred to in the section include seriously intimidating a population influencing a government or international organisation by coercion intimidation.

It is curious to see that the TPA 2011 (as amended) still adopts the common law concept of “malice aforethought” which has long been jettisoned by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Terrorism offences

Basically, the consequences of terrorism affect people and property. It has been argued in some quarters that the TPA 2011 (as amended) encompasses crimes that are prosecutable under Nigerian criminal law, and which, if applied, could curb the crime of terrorism to a large extent. Indeed, it is said that the TPA Act 2011 (as amended) ...has only captioned, in one coded form, several offences in the Criminal Code of both the Federation and the States although there is no direct heading titled terrorism in the Code”. It is further stated that there are provisions in both the Criminal Code and Penal Code which criminalise acts that injure people and property which may simply be updated to deal with terrorism. For instance, it is said, that the Criminal Code Act contains provisions, inter alia, on murder. manslaughter, kidnapping as well as unlawful deprivation of liberty, offences against the safety of maritime navigation, unlawful attempts to injure by use of explosive substances, and unlawful societies. Similarly, the Penal Code provides for the following offences: culpable homicide punishable with death, culpable homicide not punishable with death, voluntarily causing hurt, wrongful confinement, kidnapping mischief to vessel, injuring and unlawful society, which are sufficient to deal with the spate of terrorism in Nigeria. As plausible as the arguments may appear, the truth remains that none of the Nigerian penal laws mentions terrorism as an offence at all, in the way murder or culpable homicide is mentioned. Only some aspects of terrorism are covered in the criminal law which, to me, will not give terrorism the emphasis and due attention it deserves. Furthermore, promulgation of anti-terrorism laws is consistent with trends in international law and practices from which Nigeria cannot isolate herself.

The following new line of offences are created under the TPA 2011 (as amended): (a) murder, kidnaps or other attacks on the person or liberty of an internationally protected person (s. 3) (b); terrorist meetings (s. 4) (c); soliciting and giving support to terrorist groups for the commission of a terrorist act (s.5) (d); harbouring terrorists or hindering the arrest of a terrorist (s. 6) (e); provision of training and instruction to terrorist groups or terrorists (s. 7) (f); concealment of information about acts of terrorism (s. 8) (g); provision of devices to a terrorist (s.9) (h); Recruitment of persons to be members of terrorist groups or to participate in terrorist acts (s.10); (i) incitement, promotion or solicitation of property for the Commission of terrorist acts (s. 11); (j) provision of facilities in support of terrorist acts (s. 12); (k) financing of terrorism (s. 13); (l) dealing in terrorist property (s. 14), (m); hostage taking (s. 15); (n) membership of a terrorist group or proscribed organisation (s. 16); (o) conspiracy to commit terrorist acts (s. 17); (p) aiding and abetting terrorist acts (s. 18); (q) escape or aiding and abetting escape (s. 19); (r) attempt to commit an offence under the Act (s. 20); (s) preparation to commit terrorist acts (s. 21); (t) unlawful assumption of character of officer of any law enforcement or security (s. 22); (u) tampering with evidence and witness (s. 23); (v) obstruction of any officer of a law enforcement or security agency (s. 24) amongst others.

•To be continued next week

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

38

LAW & SOCIETY Following the appointment of former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) as a member of the Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal (CSAT), the Head of the Department of Commercial Law of the institute, Prof. Paul Obo Idornigie examines the significance of the appointment, its jurisdiction and the procedures for the appointment of of the members of CSAT.

Significance of Azinge’s membership of Commonwealth Arbitral Tribunal

T

HIS article is meant to situate the appointment of Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN) as a member of the Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal (CSAT).

In this context, to underscore the significance of this appointment and the honour done to Azinge and Nigeria, we shall examine the jurisdiction of the CSAT, the procedure for the appointment of members of the CSAT, the procedure for conducting the arbitral proceedings of the CSAT and the Rules. We shall also examine the applicable law.

The Commonwealth, established in 1965, is an intergovernmental organisation of 53 member-states that were mostly territories of the former British Empire. It is a voluntary association of now independent states. The states are in the following regions: Africa, Asia, Caribbean and Americas, Europe and the Pacific and are diverse – they are among the world’s largest, smallest, richest and poorest countries.

Thirty-one of the members are classified as small states – countries with a population size of 1.5 million people or less and larger states that share similar characteristics with them.

All members subscribe to the Commonwealth values and principles outlined in The Commonwealth Charter. The African Region has the highest number of states followed by the Caribbean and Americas.

The Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal was established by the Commonwealth Governments vide Article I of the Statute of the Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal. The Statute was adopted on 1 July, 1995 and amended by the Commonwealth Governments on June 24, 1999, 18 February 18, 2004, May 14, 2005 and May 16, 2007.

Article II of the Statute provides for the jurisdiction of the CSAT. Essentially the CSAT has jurisdiction to hear and determine any application brought by: (a) a member of staff of the Commonwealth Secretariat; (b) The Commonwealth Secretariat; (c) any other person who enters into a contract with the Commonwealth Secretariat; which alleges the non-observance of a contract in writing with the Commonwealth Secretariat and includes in relation to a contract of service the non-observance of the contract of employment or terms of appointment of such member of staff, and in relation to a contract for services the non-observance of the terms of the contract.

The CSAT also has jurisdiction to hear and determine an application involving an international or intergovernmental Commonwealth body or organisation which meets the requirements set out in Annex A to the Statute and which has addressed to the Commonwealth Secretary General a declaration recognising, in accordance with its constitution or internal administrative arrangements, the exclusive jurisdiction of the CSAT, as well as its Rules of Procedures and brought by: (a) a member of staff of that international or intergovernmental Commonwealth body or organisation; (b) that international or intergovernmental Commonwealth body or organisation; (c) any other person who enters into a contract with that international or intergovernmental Commonwealth body or organisation; whichalso alleges the non-observance of a contract in writing with that international or intergovernmental Commonwealth body or organisation, including, in relation to a contract of service the non-ob-

servance of the contract of employment or terms of appointment of such member of staff, and in relation to a contract for services the non-observance of the terms of the contract.

The requirements for an International or Intergovernmental Commonwealth Body or Organisation to be eligible to access the CSAT are stated in Annex A to the Statute.

The CSAT shall only consider an application if: (a) In relation to a contract of service, the applicant has exhausted all other remedies available within the Commonwealth Secretariat or other body or organisation eligible under Annex A including the redress of grievance procedures specified in the contract or in relevant Staff Rules; and (b) the application is filed within a period of 90 days after the occurrence of certain events like the event giving rise to the application or receipt of notice, after the applicant has exhausted all other remedies available within the Commonwealth Secretariat or other eligible body or organisation that the relief asked for or recommended will not be granted.

The CSAT may nevertheless consider an application which is out of time where it is satisfied that it was not reasonably practicable for the application to be filed before the end of 90 days.

Under Labour Law, a line is drawn between ‘contract of service’ and ‘contract for services’. In this context, paragraph 5 of Article II provides that ‘contract of service’ means an agreement between the Commonwealth Secretariat or other eligible body or organisation to which the CSAT is open under Annex A to and a member of its staff for work by the staff member over a specified period of time and in relation to which the relevant Regulations, Rules and provisions apply while ‘contract for services’ means a contract for the supply of goods and services other than a contract of service.

Annex B to the Statute deals with the Procedure for the Selection and Appointment of Members of the CSAT. When a vacancy occurs or is about to occur, the Commonwealth Secretariat notifies Member Government in the Region(s) concerned, the Commonwealth Secretariat Staff Association and the Commonwealth legal fraternity and invites nominations. At the end of the specified time period, the Commonwealth Secretariat compiles a list of the nominees proposed

by Member Governments and circulates the list to Member Governments for their consideration and Commonwealth Secretariat Staff Association for its information. Member Governments then meet to select the President or member as the case may be. Member Governments carry out the selection on a regionally representative basis taking into account theneed for continuity and the maintenance of an appropriate gender balance. In selecting or re-selecting members of the CSAT, Member Governments may take into account any views expressed by the Commonwealth Secretary General and the Commonwealth Secretariat Staff Association.

The Commonwealth Secretary formally appoints the President or Member as the case may be to serve a period not exceeding four nears in

the first instance. Members are eligible for re-appointment for another term of four years only. This is also provided for in paragraph 4 of Article IV. Article IV of the Statute provides that the CSAT shall consist of eight members who shall be nationals of Commonwealth Member States and that no two members may be nationals of the same member State.

Members of the CSAT shall be of high moral character and must: (a) have held, hold or be qualified to hold high judicial office in a Commonwealth country; or (b) bejuriscon-sults of recognised competence with experience as such for a period of not less than ten years.

This is the process that produced Azinge. Appointment to the Tribunal is a great honour. Thus Members are recognised as persons of high moral character who hold or have held high judicial office in a Commonwealth country or who are jurisconsults with at least 10 years experience.

According to the provisions of paragraph 5 of Article IV of the Statute, the Tribunal hearing an application shall be composed of three members empanelled by the President. Unless the President decides otherwise, he or she shall be a member of the panel and shall preside over the proceedings. In the absence of the President, the panel shall decide who shall preside. A member of the CSAT has security of tenure and shall remain in office until the end of his/her term of appointment unless the member resigns or dies. A member may only be removed on the ground of manifest unsuitability or inability to perform the duties of a member of the CSAT following a recommendation of the majority of the other members of the CSAT and approved by Member Governments.

In terms of procedure, this is provided in Article VI of the Statute.

Accordingly, the CSAT has drawn up the Procedure for Commencing Proceedings before the Tribunal dealing with time limits, form of application, applicable law, application for oral hearing, costs, review of judgments and application by a non-staff member. The CSAT has also promulgated Rules dated 1 July, 2008. The Rules deal with the Organisation of the CSAT, Sessions, Proceedings, Remand of a Case, Intervention and Miscellaneous Matters. Decision-making is by a majority of the members of the panel which heard the case and the panel states the reasons for its judgment.

According to the provisions of paragraph 5 of Article IX, the judgment of the CSAT is final and binding on the parties and shall not be subject to appeal. However, there is provision for revision or review under paragraphs 5-12 of Article XI. Thus a party to a case in which judgment has been delivered who challenges the judgment on the ground that the CSAT has exceeded or failed to exercise its jurisdiction or competence, or has erred on a question of fact or law or both, or that there has been a fundamental error in procedure which has resulted in a failure of justice or that

the CSAT has acted reasonably having regard to the material placed before it, may apply to the CSAT, within a period of 60 days after the judgment was delivered, for a review of the judgment. A panel of five members who did not sit on the initial panel that delivered the judgment in question, is usually constituted by the President to sit as a Review Board to review the judgment. The Review Board may affirm or rescind in whole or in part the judgment of the panel which heard the application.

Considering the membership of the Commonwealth, the CSAT is a very powerful organ for resolving disputes arising from contract of service and contract for services.

The CSAT is not an organ for resolving commercial disputes but its significance lies in the standing of the 53-member strong Commonwealth in the Regions of Africa, Asia, Europe, Caribbean and Americas and the Pacific. It is an administrative tribunal like the International Labour Organization Administrative Tribunal (ILOAT), United Nations Dispute Tribunal (UNDT) and United Nations Administrative Tribunal (UNAT).

Similarly, under the provisions of the UK International Organisations Act, 2005, the President and Members of the CSAT enjoy diplomatic immunity and privileges.

What is the law governing the jurisdiction of the CSAT in relation to contract of service? Paragraph 1 of Article XII of the Statute provides that the CSAT is bound by the principles of international administrative law which shall apply to the exclusion of the national laws of individual member states. In all other cases, the CSAT shall apply the law specified in the contract. Failing that, it shall apply the law most closely connected with the contract in question.

The Commonwealth Secretariat Act, 1966 granted diplomatic immunity to the Commonwealth but was not seen as extending to the CSAT. The 1966 Act was interpreted by English courts as allowing the courts to exercise supervisory jurisdiction under the Arbitration Act, 1996 over the CSAT. However with the passage of the International Organisations Act, 2005, CSAT now has the same legal immunity as the Commonwealth Secretariat itself thus guaranteeing independence of the English Courts.

Azinge has an intimidating profile. He was born on November 13, 1957 in Aba, Abia State although he hails from Asaba, Oshimili South LGA of Delta State. He attended St. Patricks College, Asaba between 1970 and 1975 and then proceeded to the University of Lagos in 1976 where he obtained a degree of Bachelor of Laws with a Second Class Upper Division. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1980 and proceeded to the University of London for his LL.M specialising in Comparative Constitutional Law and Shipping Law in 1983 and completed his PhD in 1986 writing his doctoral thesis on “Electoral Laws in Nigeria”.

‘Appointment to the Tribunal is a great honour. Thus Members are recognised as persons of high moral character who hold or have held high judicial office in a Commonwealth country or who are jurisconsults with at least 10 years experience’

• Prof. Azinge Azinge began his academic career at the University of Benin in 1981 where he taught several courses including the Nigerian Legal System, Legal Process, Jurisprudence, Constitutional Law, Labour Law, Public International Law and Administrative Law. He also taught Information Technology Law and Law of Taxation at the University of Abuja. To demonstrate his extreme passion for education he also taught the Nigerian Legal System at the Nassarawa State University free of charge. At the University of Benin, he held several positions in academics and administration. Professor Azinge, SAN was appointed Special Assistant to the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (HAGF) where he served from 1991 to 1997. During that term, he contributed to many landmark legal developments that led to the promulgation of several enactments including the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, Failed Banks Act, Advanced Fee Fraud Act, Money Laundering Act and Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act. He was a Member, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Legal Practice (2004 -2008); Member, NBA Continuing Legal Education Committee (2003 -2006); Chairman, NBA, Section on Business Law and its Sub Committee on Sports and Entertainment. He was elevated to the status of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2006. Azinge has published extensively in diverse areas in local and international journals and also editor of several books. In May 2009, he was appointed the fifth DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies where he demonstrated outstanding passion for legal scholarship and education and edited over 63 books and journals. Outside his academic career, he is actively involved in community develop-ment. He is the Founder of The Sojourners Medicate Foundation, which he personally funds to help accident victims on the highway as well as award of scholarships to indigent Nigerians.

He is a Member of the Nigerian Bar Association, International Bar Association and Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. In recognition of his academic and administrative achievements, he was awarded honorary LLD in 2013 by the Commonwealth University, Belise and National Honour - Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2014 by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Professor Azinge is happily married to Dr (Mrs) Valerie Azinge and they are blessed with four children.

Azinge is in good company. The President of CSAT is Mr Christopher Jeans, QC (UK). Other members include Mr Arthur Faerua (Vanuatu in the Pacific Region); Mr Justice George Erotocritou (Cyprus in the European Region);Mr Justice Seymour Panton (Jamaica in the Caribbean Region);Mr David Goddard QC (New Zealand in the Pacific); MrChelva R Rajah SC (Singapore in the Asia) and Justice Sandra P Mason, QC (Barbados in the Caribbean Region).

THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

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LAW & SOCIETY Ilupeju property: Court to rule on application seeking exclusion of two defendants

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USTICE Ganiyu Safari of a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja will on June 23, 2015 rule on a Motion on Notice seeking to strike out two defendants in a N12 million suit filed by Abdul Hafisu Bamgbala, the executor to the estate of the Late Alhaji Musa Ahmadu Bamgbala, against Nucleus Ventures Limited and two others over a property situated at 32, Association Avenue, Ilupeju, Lagos.

The application filed by their counsel, A. K. Sanni, is seeking to strike out Nucleus Ventures Limited and Olaide Fowosire who are first and second defendants in the suit filed by Bamgbala through his counsel, Dr. Dayo Amokaye.

The Motion on Notice was brought pursuant to Order 13 Rules 4, 5, 6 and 17 of the High Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules 2012 and inherent jurisdiction of the court.

But counsel to the claimants, Dr. Dayo Amokaye, had opposed the motion and filed a reply that the company is one and that the third defendant is the alter ego and managing director of second defendant company.

The defendants, in their application, are praying the court to strike out the two defendants on the grounds that they have no interest in the land, the subject matter of the action filed by the claimant, Bamgbala.

They averred in an affidavit in support of the motion deposed to by one Ayodeji Naiyeju, a legal officer in the employment of the first and second defendants, that “the third defendant has been joined to this suit personally whereas to the best of my knowledge, he only acted at all material times to this action as an officer of the second defendant company”.

They had also averred that it was only the second defendant that has interest in the land, subject matter of this action as contained in the “Deed registered as No 8 at No 5 at page 5 in Volume 2259 in the Registered of Deeds kept at the Lagos State Land Registry establishing the fact that it is the 2nd defendant that has a leasehold interest assigned to it”.

But Amokaye had at the last hearing submitted to the court that from the list of directors and shareholders obtained from Corporate Affairs Commission, second defendant and members of his family are shareholders and that the companies in the suit are family businesses.

He submitted that as Managing Director, the third defendant has actual and instructive notice of all actions of the second defendant company.

In the main suit, the claimant is claiming N5million as general damage for alleged trespass on the parcel of land situated at Plot 32, Association Avenue, Ilupeju, Lagos (now municipally known and called 21A and 21B Association Avenue, Ilupeju, Lagos.

• Lagos Chief Judge, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade

By Adebisi Onanuga

The claimant is also asking the court for N2 million as special damage for alleged unlawful trespass on the land and another N5 million as legal fee and cost of the action.

In his amended statement of claim, the claimant claimed to have been granted legal title and management power over a parcel of land situated at Plot 21A and 21B Association Avenue, Ilupeju covered by a registered Deed of Conveyance dated October 5, 1974 and registered as no 47 at Page 47 in Volume 1470 at the Lagos State Land Registry, Alausa Ikeja measuring approximately 1,654.53 square yards and covered by survey Plan No. AL/87/ 1973 dated July 31, 1974.

In their amended statement of claim, the claimant claimed to be one of the executor/trustees and beneficiaries of the estate of late Alhaji Musa Ahmadu Bamgbala by the virtue of a will dated March 6, 1976 and Probate certificate No PHC. 16,575 dated May 15, 1992 issued to him by the Lagos State High Court.

Going by the certificate of the Probate, the claimant averred that as executor, he was granted legal title and management power over a parcel of the land situated at Association Avenue, Ilupeju and that by the clause 4 of the will, it was the testator’s wish that the land described in the will be developed and not be alienated at all.

The claimant averred that sometime in January 2013, he received a telephone call from his younger brother, one Yekini Bamgbala that the defendants entered into the property without lawful consent, authority and his knowledge .

The claimant accused the first and third defendants of allegedly damaging the existing fence, cleared the land and deposited sands, granites

and bags of cement on the land with a view to erecting structures on the land adding that he, thereby, suffered damage which cost he put at N2 million.

He said he did not get the identity of the person behind the unauthorised entry and construction on the property until recently when it was discovered to be the first and third defendants.

The claimant contended that the entry unto the land by the defendants was unlawful and unauthorised “because the executors have neither sold, assign nor transfer their estate’s interest in the land to the defendants”.

The defendants in their statement of defence filed before the court through one of their counsels, Prince A.A. Adetiloye, denied the averments of the claimants in paragraphs 1 to 10 and 12 and 13 of the amended statement of claim.

They claimed in their defence that the late Bamgbala, before his demise, executed his last Will and Testament dated March 6, 1976 which was admitted to probate by the High Court of Lagos State on March 15, 1992.

They averred that the claimant was not the only executor of their late father’s will and listed other executors to include M. A. Fari, Musa A. Balogun and Musibau A. Bamgbala as first, second and third executors respectively.

The defendants contended that at the time of admitting the will to probate, the first executor was already dead and that probate was only granted three executors including the claimant who they said was the fourth executor of the will.

While the claimant was based in United States, the defendant claimed that he was seised of the conduct of the affairs of the estate.

They averred that there was no where in the will where it was stipulated that the subject matter “shall not be alienated at all” but contended that the specific restriction in clause 4 of the will was that the land is “not to be sold”.

They claimed that the claimant wrote a letter of authorisation dated January 26, 1994 authorising the other two executors, Balogun and Musibau Bamgbala, to act in his absence as signatories for the estate until further notice.

They averred that the estate was unable to develop the land and subsequently offered same for development under development lease to the knowledge of all the executors and other beneficiaries of the estate.

They said the lease was subsequently assigned to the second defendant by Capital Trustees and Nominees Limited by virtue of a Deed of Assignment dated October 6, 2009 consequent upon which they erected a three-storey building, which is now an hotel.

Group to Buhari, Osinbajo: declare your assets publicly

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OCIO-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President in line with their anticorruption credentials.

The group contended that declaration would in the best interest of transparency and accountability.

SERAP’s request followed the declaration of assets last week by the President and Vice President to the Code of Conduct Bureau as required by the Constitution.

In a statement, the group’s Executive Director, Adetokunbo Mumuni, said: “We welcome the official declaration of assets by the President and Vice President. This clearly complies with the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution as contained in Chapter VI Section 140. However, the declaration before the Code of Conduct alone falls far short of the commitment to publicly declare their assets.”

The organisation recalled that the President had said before the election

By Adebisi Onanuga

that he would publicly declare his assets and liabilities, and encourage all his appointees to publicly declare their assets and liabilities as a pre-condition for appointment.

“We now expect the President to fulfil this promise to the Nigerian people,” the group said.

The organisation “trusts that the President and Vice President will move swiftly to publicly declare their assets and to publish widely the information on a dedicated website”.

The group argued that public disclosure of assets would give the public a true picture of the assets of the President and Vice President and would send a message that it is not going to be business as usual with this government.

“This will also follow the best practice by former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, boost this government’s

• President Buhari fight against corruption and impunity of perpetrators, and fully comply with the provisions of chapter two of the dealing with Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, which among others require the government to take steps to eradicate corrupt practices and the abuse of power,” the group added.

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com For comments: 08033054939 (sms only)

Great expectations from Buhari, Osinbajo

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RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief, Nigeria Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria and his deputy Professor Yemi Osinbajo, (SAN), GCON, surely deserve our congratulations on their successful inauguration in Abuja, on May 29. Their ascension to the prestigious offices were momentous, consideringthe palpable fear that had overwhelmed Nigerians,prior to the last general elections. Their success also elicits excitement, because of their pedigree, particularly as persons who have never shown the predilection for ostentatious lifestyles and the concomitant corrupt self-aggrandisement. It is, therefore, hoped that their tenure will bring improvement in the material, spiritual and psychological wellbeing of Nigerians.

As we read this piece, the reverie from the inauguration parties across the country should have worn out. If it hasn’t, it should, considering the enormous challenges facing the country. While many commentators have continued to taunt the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), over their challenge in transforming from the ruling party to the opposition party; they fail to appreciate that the challenge facing the All Progressive Congress (APC), in transforming from the opposition party to the ruling party is even more enormous. The job of the opposition is to propound alternative programs, while the job of the ruling party is to execute successful programs.

So, for APC, it is time to walk the talk. I guess the first task facing the leadership of the party is to select those who have the integrity and the quality to rouse the expected change across the country. Such men and women would be required to sit down with the President and the Vice President, to share their vision for the country, in the next four years. With the presidential vision as guide, the egg-heads would brainstorm, and chart a policy direction and mission for the administration and the country. With a vision and mission in place, governance becomes a standard routine, with less stress for the leaders.

Luckily for Nigeria, between the two leaders, we have a potentially benefitting combination.While one has untrammelled bravery and force, the other possess intellectual power and methodology. If the two fail to harmonise, the presidency would be less effective, and our country would be the worse for it. But if the two and the contending forces they represent agree to work together, then there would be efficiency, just like in a new automobile or indeed any technology, which is a synchronisation of forces, to achieve a goal.That is why APC and her leaders must agree on a common vision, mission and the processes to achieve all that they hope to achieve, within the next four years.

Nigeria in many respects,therefore, represents Charles Dickens’s the Great Expectations. Also, APC, Buhari and Osinbajo figuratively represents the great expectations for Nigerians.While Nigeria is a woven tale of ‘wealth and poverty, love and rejection, and (hopefully) the eventual triumph of good over evil’ likethe Great Expectations; the new presidency represents for Nigerians, the beacon of great expectations; and if you ask many, the solution to all the problems of Nigeria and Nigerians. As the President was reported to have observed to the Vice President during their campaigns, many of those shouting ‘change’, would when their expectations are not quickly met, join to curse and complain, against them.

For this column, like many other Nigerians, that great expectations has to be met. While it will be unfair to expect magic from the new administration, I guess the presidency already know, that Nigerians would not be willing to accept excuses, for any failure.To meet the great expectation, what is needed from the presidency is to tap into the vast human capital that abound in Nigeria. I believe that once President Buhari and his government show the inflexible determination to do it right, to all manner of people without fear, favour or ill-will, the majority of Nigerians would join them, to achieve the great expectation.

Across the states, the governors must also show the willingness to join, to achieve the great expectation. When it comes to governance, it is the wish of many Nigerians that partisanship should take the back seat, particularly as the next general elections are four years away.Of note, unless there is a change in the national economic structure of the country, the Buhari administration can only make a dent, on the gargantuan economic, social and political challenges facing the country. The reason is simply because there is little or no economic activities going on in most of the states of the federation, save the monthly gathering, to share the money received from the federation account.

As this column has severally canvassed, the states across the country must be given greater economic opportunities, if we hope to have a real national rebirth. While the presidency should walk towards reducing the items in the exclusive legislative list, for the federal government, in favour of the states; the President can immediatelygrant more economic opportunities to states, willing to walk the talk. For instance, states willing to mine minerals in their backyards, build and use rail lines within their states, generate and use their own electricity, dredge and use the water ways and harbours within their domain, build highways, among other economic activities, presently tied to exclusive legislative list, should be encouraged and granted the rights by the Federal Government.

Unfortunately for Buhari and Osinbajo, most governmentsin recent years, failed to meet the great expectations of Nigerians, and the international community. The result is that Nigeria is commonly referred to as a potentially great country. Now, it is expected that all the past challenges of the country would be resolved by the twosome and their party, that rode into power, with the mantra of change.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015

NATIONAL BAR

Innovative provisions of Administration Two weeks before his exit, of Criminal Justice Act 2015 former President Goodluck

tion of it in the interest of justice to the safe custody of the owner or person having interest in the property. This provision further provides that where any property has been taken from a suspect in section 10 of the ACJ Act, and the suspect is not charged before a court but is released on the ground that there is no sufficient reason to believe that he has committed an offence, any property taken from the suspect shall be returned to him, provided the property is neither connected to nor a proceed of crime.

Jonathan signed the Administrator of Criminal Justice bill into law. In this piece, Professor of law, Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), examines key provision of the new law.

Recording of Arrest

The ACJ Act makes provisions for mandatory record of personal data of an arrested Person. This is contained in section 15 of the Act. Such personal data of the arrested person shall include: (a) the alleged offence(s); (b) the date and circumstances of the arrest; (c) name, occupation and residential address of the suspect; and (d) the suspect’s identification which include his height, photograph, fingerprint impressions, or such other means of identification.

Subsection 2 of section 15, further provides that the process of recording shall be concluded within a reasonable time, not exceeding forty-eight hours.

This is intended to check prolong pre-trial detention in the guise of recording the personal data of the arrested person.

Introduction

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RIMINAL procedure in Nigeria is gov erned by two principal legislations which were handed down to us by the British Colonial Administration, namely: the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) 1 and the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC)2. Each state in Nigeria has either adopted the CPA or the CPC. These laws have been applied for many decades without significant improvement. As a result, the criminal justice system has lost its capacity to respond quickly to the needs of the society to check the rising waves of crime, speedily bring criminals to book and protect the victims of crime. The ACJA2015 responds to Nigeria’s dire need of a new legislation that will transform the criminal justice system to reflect the true intents of the Constitution and the demands of a democratic society, eliminate unacceptable delays in disposing of criminal cases and improve the efficiency of criminal justice administration in the country. Indeed the Buhari Administration should urgently commence the implementation of the ACJA to prosecute its campaign against corruption and allied crimes.

The provisions for the reform of Administration of Criminal Justice were first developed in 2005 by the National Working Group on the Reform of Criminal Justice in Nigeria. The Group which was established by the then Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation Chief Akin Olujinmi, SAN was maintained by his successor, Chief BayoOjo, SAN. The Group consisted of individuals drawn from all segments of the criminal justice sector. The immediate Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN upon assumption established the Panel on Implementation of Justice Reform (PIJR) in 2011to implement the proposals for reform produced by the National Working Group under the earlier administrations. The Panel conducted a detailed review of the proposals, brought them up-to-date and adopted an improved version.

The ACJ proposals merged the provisions of the two principal legislations, CPA and CPC into one principal federal Act which is intended to apply uniformly in all federal courts across the entire Federation. Substantially, it preserves the existing criminal procedures. But it introduces new innovative provisions that will enhance the efficiency of the justice system. In other words the ACJA 2015 builds upon the existing framework of criminal justice administration in the country. However, it fills the gaps observed in these laws over the course of several decades. The contents as revised and updated by the Panel on Implementation of Justice Reform (PIJR), with the support of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies have now been enacted into law. The House of Representatives have turned the proposals to a Act and passed them wholly into law.

Purposes of the Act

The main purposes of the ACJ Act (ACJA) 2015 include the following: To promote efficient management of criminal justice institutions and speedy dispensation of justice, protect the society from crime, and Protect the rights and the interest of the defendant and the victim. The purposes of the ACJ Act are captured in section 1 of the Act. These indicate a deliberate shift from punishment as the main goal of the criminal justice to restorative justice which pays attention to the needs of the society, the victims, vulnerable persons and human dignity.

The general provisions of the ACJ Act apply to criminal trial in court except where express provision is made in the Act or in any other law in respect of any particular court or form of trial. Specifically, section 2 of the Act provides that its provision shall not apply to a Court Martial.

Unlawful Arrests

Unlawful arrest is one of the major problems of our criminal process and it is one of the

Establishment of a Police Central Criminal Registry •CJN Justice Mahmud Mohammed

• Prof. Akinseye-George

reasons why police stations and prisons are overcrowded. Arrests are sometimes made on allegation that are purely civil in nature or on a frivolous ground. By section 10(1) of the CPA, the police could arrest without a warrant, any person who has no ostensible means of sustenance and who cannot give a satisfactory account of himself. This particular provision has been greatly abused by the police who use it as a ground to arrest people indiscriminately. The ACJ Act has deleted this provision.

There have been several instances where the police arrested relations or friends and close associate of a crime suspect to compel the suspect to give himself up even though that person is not linked in any way to the crime the suspect is being accused of. Section 7 of the ACJ Act specifically prohibits arrest in lieu.

Apart from the police, other agencies vested with power of arrest e.g. the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), etc had abused this power to arrest and detain relatives and close associates of criminal suspect in lieu of the suspects where they had challenges in apprehending the suspects. Section 7 should curtail this kind of abuses.

pect will have the benefit of not only being informed of the offence he has committed but also an additional advantage of counsel assisting in securing his immediate release on bail and ensuring that trial is expeditious. This would in turn prevent prolonged detention of suspects and hopefully bring about decongestion of the prisons.

Notification of cause of arrest

Sections 5 of the CPA and 38 of the CPC provide that a police officer or a person making an arrest is to inform the arrested person of the reason for the arrest, except where he is being arrested in course of the commission of the offence or is pursued immediately after the commission of the offence or escaped from lawful custody. It has been argued that this provision falls short of the contemporary requirement3. The ACJ Act 2015 retains this provision in section 6. However there is a proviso which mandates the police officer or any other person to inform the suspect of his right to: (a) remain silent or avoid answering any question until after consultation with a legal practitioner or any other person of his own choice; (b) consult a legal practitioner of his choice before making, endorsing or writing any statement or answering any question put to him after arrest; (c) free legal representation by the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria where applicable.

This provision re-affirms section 35(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which provides that any person who is arrested or detained shall have the right to remain silent or answering any question until after consultation with a legal practitioner or any other person of his choice.

It is necessary to state here that the proviso in section 6 (2) is quite laudable since the sus-

Humane treatment of an arrested Person and prohibition of arrest on civil cases The ACJ Act 2015 reiterated the human right constitutional provision of the right to dignity of person. Section 8(1) of the Act provides that: a suspect shall- (a) be accorded humane treatment, having regard to his right to the dignity of his person. (b) Not be subjected to any form of torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.

Section 8 (2) deals with the longstanding problem whereby people employ the machinery of criminal justice wrongly for civil matters. It is not uncommon for people to maliciously instigate the arrest and detention of others for a breach of contract, failure to pay debt owed or for other civil wrongs. This provision that “a suspect shall not be arrested merely on a civil wrong or breach of contract.” is a laudable one. It is believed that it would check arbitrary arrest of persons and torture by law enforcement and security agencies.

Mandatory Inventory of Property

In order to encourage accountability and transparency, the ACJ Act introduced in section 10 a provision which states that a police officer making an arrest or to whom a private person hands over a suspect, shall take an inventory of all items or properties recovered from the suspect. The inventory must be duly signed by the police officer and the suspect. However, where the suspect refuses to sign, it shall not invalidate the inventory. This provision also directs that a copy of the inventory shall be given to the suspect, his legal practitioner, or such other person as the suspect may direct.

This provision permits the police to release such property upon request by either the owner of the property or parties having interest in the property pending the arraignment of the suspect before a Court. Where a police officer refuses to release the property to the owner or any person having interest in the property, the police officer shall make a report to the court of the fact of the property taken from the arrested suspect and the particulars of the property.

It is now entirely for the court to decide whether to release the property or any por-

‘The main purposes of the ACJ Act (ACJA) 2015 include the following: To promote efficient management of criminal justice institutions and speedy dispensation of justice, protect the society from crime, and Protect the rights and the interest of the defendant and the victim’

Section 16(1) of the ACJ Act makes provision for the establishment, within the Nigeria Police, a Central Criminal Record Registry. Subsection 2 of section 16 provides that there shall be established at every state police command, a Criminal Records Registry which shall keep and transmit all such records to the Central Criminal Records Registry.

Subsection 3 mandates the Chief Registrar of the courts to transmit the decisions of the court in all criminal trials to the Central Criminal Records Registry within thirty-days after delivery of judgment. Where there is default by the Chief Registrar to transmit records within thirty days after judgment, he shall be liable to disciplinary measures by the Federal Judicial Service Commission for misconduct.

The establishment of Central Criminal Record Registry will ensure that all arrests and judgments are well documented. This is intended to avoid a repeat of what happened in the case of Agbi v.

Ibori4. The central figure in this case was Chief James OnanefeIbori, the then Governor of Delta State. At the time of commencement of this action at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja he was a candidate for the 2003 general elections. In an action before the said High Court two persons suing as Plaintiffs began a joint action to challenge Ibori’s qualification to stand as a gubernatorial candidate for the 2003 election having been an ex-convict. The action did not succeed before the High Court, however on appeal to the Court of Appeal, the Court in a unanimous judgment allowed the appeal of the Plaintiffs, set aside the judgment of the High Court and ordered that the case be heard afresh by another Judge of the High Court.

The proceedings commenced at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory and one of the main issues was whether the record of proceedings of Bwari Upper Area Court in case N0. CK 81-95 (Exhibit A) wherein one James OnanfeIbori was convicted was sufficient to act against the 5th Defendant/Appellant (James OnanfeIbori) as an ex-convict. During the trial the Area Court Judge came to court and testified that James OnanfeIbori was an ex-convict. James OnanfeIbori on the other hand, contented that Exhibit A did not conform to section 157 (1) of the Criminal Procedure Code.

The court gave judgment in favour of James OnanfeIbori and the matter was dismissed.

With the new provision in the ACJ Act, cases like this would no longer pose a major problem as there would be sufficient information on all convicted persons which would make it easy to identify them in subsequent proceedings.

Electronic recording of confessional statement Section 15(4) of the Act provides that where a person arrested with or without a warrant of arrest volunteers to make a confessional statement, the police officer shall record the statement in writing or may record the making of the confessional statement electronically on a retrievable video compact disc or such other audio visual means. Subsection (5) of section 15 provides that notwithstanding the provision of subsection (4), an oral confession of arrested suspect shall be admissible in evidence. This provision of the ACJ Act conforms to the position of the law as contained in the Evidence Act. •Continued next week

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WEDNESDAY JUNE 3, 2015

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Against the background of the massive endorsement it received at the March 28 election, the new administration of President Muhammadu Buhari will face many challenges. Deputy Political Editor RAYMOND MORDI and Assistant Editor LEKE SALAUDEEN highlight peoples’ expectations about the new government.

Nigerians hail new government, demand reforms G

IVEN the groundswell of support that catapulted President Muhammadu Buhari to power, the new administration is expected to hit the ground running, if it wants to avoid the kind of fate that befell the Jonathan administration.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s honeymoon lasted for only six months. The tide of public opinion turned against him when he attempted to withdraw fuel subsidy in January 2012.

Against this background, experts say the political appointments of the new administration must be meritbased. Indeed, the composition of the President’s cabinet is an immediate signal that would provide very strong indications of what lays in store for Nigerians. They want the Buhari administration to fill his cabinet with competent, ethical people and reformminded people. This is because putting the best and the most competent hands at the helms of affairs will allow for smooth, effective and transparent running of the new government.

As the Chairman, Board of Directors of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Chief Bisi Ogunjobi, aptly puts it, the administration requires a robust economic and political team at the helm of affairs at all levels. He said: While in accordance to the Constitution, each state is entitled to have a Minister or Minister of State, not more than two-third of them should be full Ministers with one-third being Ministers of State thereby implicitly capping the number of Ministers at 24.

“Each state should endeavor to nominate their three best or top persons with at least one of them a technocrat. All the three nominees must be persons of good character possessing a track record of professional and administrative expertise and experience. Thus, the President will have a large pool of capable persons to nominate to the Senate as Ministers with the appropriate portfolios indicated for screening.

“I expect the new administration to hit the ground running as an opposition party that has over the years been waiting to be the government with their alternative policies and programmes. In particular, I expect the President who is fourth time lucky to have a well thought out vision for the country and roll out the key elements within the first 100 days before the honey moon is over. Certainly, I expect strong and clear actions and not mere intentions.

“More specifically, I expect workable solutions to the near intractable problem of electricity and power supply. On fuel scarcity, the full liberalization of the sector must be pursued vigorously with the privatization of the refineries. Corruption must be tackled at levels with no sacred cows while the relevant Agencies must be reformed and provided with resources and enforcement teeth. Protection of Life and property must be sacrosanct bringing Boko Haram and kidnapping to an end.

“Like the proverbial white teeth of a dead dog, the new administration must identify, preserve and build on positive and good programmes and policies of the Jonathan administration without wasting time and resources in reinventing the wheels just for the sake of bringing about ‘change”.

A senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mallam Yusuf Alli, said his expectations from the Buhari administration are similar to the demands of the general public. The task before President Muhammadu Buhari is enormous. He said: “Buhari inherited a lot of problems. Many things have to be fixed.

We all know the challenges facing us in this country. We have shortage of utilities which have been compounded by corruption in every sphere of our national life. The political gladiators have entrenched corruption into every sector. They used money to induce voters in the last general election but they failed to change the minds of the majority.

“I am happy the President mentioned in his inaugural speech corruption, power supply, employment opportunities and economy as areas his administration will give priority. Stable power supply is so crucial to our existence. I believe once the power supply is stable, the economy will bounce back. The employers of labour will re-open shop and create job opportunities for the unemployed.

“It is assuring that President Buhari’s speech touched every vital of our national life. I wish all Nigerians should support him in tackling these problems so that the loss glory of the country could be restored. I hope he will muster the political will in carrying out all necessary reforms.”

Bishop of Lagos Central, Methodist Church of Nigeria, Rt. Rev. Kehinde Adeyemi observed that the problems of this country are too many and only God can solve them. He said President Buhari cannot easily solve them at a go because he is not a magician. Only prayers to God to show mercy and the co-operation of all Nigerians can help, he said.

The cleric however noted that corruption had eaten deep into the nation’s fabrics and blamed the political class for the malaise. This is a major problem that the new administration must tackle effectively for it to make progress. He urged Nigerians to support the new government so that it will fulfil its promises.

A United States-based Nigerian Space scientist, Dr. Bright Aregs, said no nation with security challenges can ever develop. According to him: “If the national business environment is safe and free of violence, businesses thrive, infrastructural development improves and the economy grows and so the value of the national currency.

Under this setting, Nigeria people will start to ignite their sense of patriotism and begin to believe in the project-Nigeria.

“What the government of President Muhammadu Buhari must do to mollify the expectations of the greater masses, is to stalwartly focus on conducive national business environ-

•President Buhari taking the Oath of Office during the swearing-in ceremony at the Eagles Square , Abuja.

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN.

suggest that he should address the inability ‘ofImany state governments to pay workers salaries. Though it is not the Federal Government that owes, but he should not forget that he is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

’

ments while protecting our borders, this is what will encourage Nigerians to invest in Nigeria and greatly attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), which is always the backbone of a nation desiring to grow and sustain its economy.

“Nigeria is considered poor by developed countries because it lacks manufacturing industries and most importantly, it lacks foreign investments from major multi-national corporations in the areas that include manufacturing, research and development, communications and transportation infrastructures. Nigeria remains unreachable and thus unable to attract many of the foreign investors it desperately needed to grow its economy.

Former Minister of Finance, Dr. Onaolapo Soleye expects President Buhari to turn around the fortunes of Nigeria for better; turn the present economic woes to economic gains for the country and Nigerians.

Soleye who served under Buhari military regime said: “I expect him not to compromise his frankness, straightforwardness and thoroughness in the name of anything. In anything he does as the President, I want him to always place the interest of Nigerians at heart and not that of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). He

must not compromise critical values he believed in like his anti-corruption stance. Under no circumstance should he concede to corrupt elements. He must let people know that the situation has changed through his actions and utterances.

“I suggest that he should address the inability of many state governments to pay workers salaries. Though it is not the Federal Government that owes, but he should not forget that he is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I also want to canvass for the reduction in the cost of running government by at least 50 per cent. We are wasting money in running government. I find it scandalous that our Senate President earns more than the United States President. It is spendthrift which must be addressed.

The Senator-elect for Kaduna Central District, Comrade Shehu Sani expects Nigeria under Buhari presidency to reassert its leadership role in Africa.

He said President Buhari must operate an open, transparent and accountable government so as to inspire other countries in Africa and help dissolve the remnants of dictators who still parade the political landscape of the continent.

“President Buhari must in the consolidation or search for peace in Afri-

can continent; he must lead in the global fight to end the presence of terrorist cells in the continent; he must lead in discouraging and rescuing our young men and women drowning in the Mediterranean Sea in search of a better life in Europe.

“Buhari’s presidency must bring relief and a new hope for our people and our country. We must radiate this to the whole continent. Africa must not be a safe haven for tyrants and terrorists. We must champion the cause of the ideals of freedom, democracy, peace and development in the continent.”

But, Nigerians could be very impatient when it comes to swallowing the bitter pills of implementing a reform programme. Echoing this viewpoint, Mr. Ezenwa Nwagwu, the Chairman of Partners for Electoral Reform, Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation, called on the incoming administration to meet the expectations of Nigerians in good time. He said that the incoming administration should demonstrate leadership by example by reducing the cost of governance.

He said: “The power stations in the country are old, there is need to show more response to power by building new power stations through competitive bidding. If the incoming administration tackles the issue of power headlong, the textile industry will be back and will generate employments.”

In his view, Mr. Bode Towoju, the Coordinator of North Central Zone of Muhammadu Buhari Legacy Foundation, said that one of the significant changes that the Nigerians called for was fight against corruption. He said making a change in other aspects of socio-political activities could be a difficult task without fighting corruption, insisting that corruption in the power sector had almost brought the country to its knee.

In his view, Mr Ayo Thomas, the Director-General of Forum of Emerging Young Socio-Economic and Political Leader, a non-governmental organisation, said that Buhari anchored his campaign on education, employment, corruption and security.

His words: “If you see him throughout the campaign, he never ceased to mention these four cardinal points which he said were the programmes most Nigerians would want him tackled without delay.’’

Thomas noted that if the challenges in education sector, employment and security are identified and addressed, it would provide a clue to tackling other challenges. He advised the new administration to reform the nation’s public service because it remains the engine for executing any government programme.

According to him, politician may not be directly responsible for corruption but the civil servants that are willing to aid and abet. Thomas also observed that there was need to assess political and economic situations in the states and local governments for a realistic plan of action.

An executive of the Construction and Civil Engineering Senior Staff Association, Mr. Umukoro Steve, said that the type of opportunities given to foreign expatriates should be given to Nigerians. He stressed the need to provide the enabling environment for local engineers and scientists to showcase local content so that indigenous technology could grow. “Most times when we bid for projects, we are turned down; up till now, our documents have piled up in various offices; but if they can give us this opportunity, we can do it,” he said, adding: •Continued on page 46

44

THE NATION WEDNESDAY JUNE 3, 2015

You know our main source of income is the oil, and when the price ‘falls it affects every other thing. It’s a global problem, it’s affecting us now. What you have said is correct; many states are owing ’

POLITICS

Former Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State was among the two-term governors who handed power over to their successors. He ascended to power in a turbulent manner. During his tenure, his erstwhile principal hung on his tail. He spoke with STEVE OSUJI and TAIWO OGUNDIPE in Umuahia, the state capital, on partisan issues.

‘We did more in Aba than any other administration’ W

HAT do you think you would miss the most after you would have left office?

I don’t think I’ll be missing much because I’ll still be in touch with my people who have elected me to go to the Senate. I would have been pained if I was severed from my people So I would not be missing much; the only thing is I will be in the Senate. But constantly I will be coming home to be in touch with my people. These are my people who love me and I love them; who voted for me to be governor for eight years. They voted for me in the first instance in 2007, voted again massively for me in 2011 to continue, and voted for me again to go to the Senate. They have shown me love, they have spoken that they want me. So, I will not be missing them because I’ll be coming home to interact with them.

Looking back after eight years, are there things you wish you had done better or which you couldn’t accomplish?

Yes, of course. Aba has been the problem. Because of what people are saying, what I should have done was to concentrate solely on Aba, maybe that way people would agree you we were doing something. But I wasn’t elected by Aba people alone; the whole of Abia people voted for me to be governor, therefore I had to touch everywhere; this is what I was doing. Maybe if I had left Umuahia and the other areas and concentrated on Aba, poured all the State’s money in Aba, they would been hailing me today that I have done very well. But I am satisfied in my conscience that I touched every part of Abia in terms of spreading dividends of democracy. And for you to concentrate on Aba alone, it means that all the money that we got would go into that place, because the work there is enormous in terms of infrastructure. People expected me to think that if I had known I should have poured all the money into Aba, but it’s not possible. This is the state capital; it has to look like a state capital. People don’t talk about Umuahia, it’s only people who come here who say, ‘he has improved Umuahia’, which I have done and brought it to the status of a state capital. People overlook that. Because of the strategic nature of Aba, that’s why all attention is on it. If I am a governor that seeks attention, a TV governor, yes, of course, I would have probably been in Aba every day, leaving the rest of the state, but it would not be fair in my conscience that I concentrated the resources of Abia State in just one area.

What would you advise your successor on the best way to tackle Aba’s problem?

He’s an Aba man. So, already, he knows the problems and he’s going to tackle them. And that’s why we believe in this equity that I’m telling you; because as an Aba man, he’s going to work and build up that place. Not that I didn’t make a mark in Aba, if I tell you what we have done in Aba you will marvel. I actually made a mark there more any other administration.

Mention a few, sir...

If you go to Aba now, we are building a modern shopping mall at Osisioma. We’ve been able to keep Aba clean. Till now; before now it wasn’t like this. I remember vividly before 2007, Aba-Port Harcourt Road at Osisioma was a mountain of refuse that would not allow you to pass, and if you were passing you must hold a handkerchief and cover your nose. It was bad to the extent that el-Rufai made a mockery of the government on seat then (Gov. Orji Uzor Kalu’s era). But our own situation has not reached that stage. We’ve been able to at least see that the hygiene situation in Aba is controlled.

What of erosion? We’ve controlled erosion. The only overhead bridge that you have in Aba now, just across the polytechnic – the polytechnic is on the Aba-Owerri road – every day vehicles knocked down students. Bus stop is there and we had to build the only overhead bridge there. What of the roads that we have repaired and new ones that we have built in Aba? Are people saying that we have been here for eight years and we have not repaired any road in Aba, we have not built any road in Aba? The infrastructural decay was so much that as you are working on one street they want you to come and work on another; if you repair this road now, they will be pointing at another one for you. Eight years is not enough for you to repair all the roads in Aba, and it’s capital-intensive. The money must be there too. Therefore, we repaired many roads in Aba. If the commissioner for works is here, I would give you the details of all the roads.

‘

We built new ones; at least the one that leads to Geometric, the power plant, a fresh road to allow the company bring in equipment and we named it Geometric Road.

Security?

What of security? There was a time, and I always tell Aba people if there’s no other thing you remember me for, you will remember me because I secured your city. During the kidnapping era, all of them ran away. Aba was a ghost town. It reminded me of the war period. I went to Aba myself with Gen. Sarkin Bello who was the commander at that time. We went to Okwa west where the kidnapping was going on and we saw in Aba nobody, all of them had run away.

But, eventually, by the help of God, we were able to restore security in Aba and people have come back. All the same, we have made our own impact in Aba more than any other administration, check it. And we expect also that the incoming government will make their own impact and improve on what we did.

What is going to be your agenda in the Senate?

I think the primary function of a law maker is to initiate good bills that will be for the good of society. We will initiate good bills for good governance. We will also try as senator to interface with our colleagues, interface with ministers, interface with ministries to attract some projects to our constituency and area. And you know we are in opposition now (laugh), we will also offer good opposition, not destructive opposition, not pull him down opposition; but constructive opposition in directing government of the day on good courses of action.

Talking about the opposition, what’s your take as a leader of the Southeast. Did they vote right?

Well, people voted according to their conscience. And if you look, with hindsight, that has been the pattern of voting in the Southeast. The PDP is strong in the Southeast and that’s what the people showed; you would not say that they voted wrongly, they voted according to their conscience. They were not

If you go to Aba now, we are building a modern shopping mall at Osisioma. We’ve been able to keep Aba clean. Till now; before now it wasn’t like this

’

Nigerians hail new government, demand reforms •Continued from page 45 “Most of these foreigners you see are not better than us; some of them are carpenters in their countries, but they will come here as managers and some only know one side of the field. It’s not the best for our country; because their colour is white, they will just think he is an expatriate.’’

Ahmed Saleh, a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), stressed that Nigerian engineers were competent and fit to handle any construction job, irrespective of the size of the projects.

He said: “In other countries of the world, they provide jobs for their own people, so it is not good for the country to give jobs that should be done by Nigerians

to foreigners.

“The government should try to engage the service of Nigerian engineers in any construction project and only employ the service of foreigners for jobs beyond the capacity of indigenous firms.

In the same vein, James Olaoluwa, an engineer, urged President Buhari to push for the speedy passage of the Bill on Development in Engineering Designing in the country. He said the passage of the bill would enable local engineers to have their names on the list of notable world engineers.

Olaoluwa called on the government to give local engineers a more conducive environment for practice, saying that it would usher in unlimited de-

velopment.

The Public Relations Officer, National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Mr. Saffiyanu Attah, said there was need for the administration to make policies that would enhance the health sector so as to give Nigerians easy access to medical services.

Attah urged the President to increase the health budget as there were lot of health issues that needs to be funded.

He said: “In respect to this, we are calling on the incoming government that they should kindly look at the NHIS, we have a bill that is in National Assembly. If he can help to improve and pass the bill that will help the NHIS to carry all Nigerians along by giving easy access to quality health services.”

• Orji

forced to vote for any person. All the parties came and campaigned, and they went for PDP because they are for PDP. PDP is strong in the Southeast. PDP has Anambra, it has Abia, it has Ebonyi, it has Enugu State; sorry, Anambra is APGA, though it used to be PDP, and Imo is APC. So you see that PDP is dominant here.

Don’t you think you will be shortchanged, somehow, in national politics?

No, we are in opposition. You can’t short-change us, we will shout. You have to give us our due; you have to give us what belongs to us. And for you to make an impact in the Southeast, if you want to make an inroad, you will have to perform. People will see what you are doing and when they appreciate it they will vote for you. It’s not by force, it’s by performance. It’s by what you do for the people – what you do for them will attract them; if you treat them shabbily, they will vote for you shabbily.

Let’s go back to the election. Did you achieve your mission, according to the charter of equity?

By Ikpeazu’s victory in the last election, the charter of equity was well served and that was what guided us in what we did. Let me also tell you that the best charter of equity is the Bible; not the one human beings have done. The best charter of equity is the Bible for Christians, and the Quran for Muslims. And in the Bible, God said I am a God of fairness, I am a God of justice and I am a God of equity. How do you translate that to reality? It’s by what you have done.

Since the Bible has said God is a God of fairness, justice and equity. We are supposed to interpret these things and implement them as a witness of God; that’s what we did.

Now referring to charter of equity, which is in line with what I’m telling you, so we are covered very well when we embarked on this mission, and our party, PDP, considered all this that I’m telling you. We said in Abia, we have three senatorial zones; fairness, justice and equity (three words). So, Abia North has done its bit, and that’s fairness; Abia Central is doing its own, and that justice; Abia South should have their own, and that should be equity. That’s what has catapulted us to this position that we are now and it has worked out because it is based on solid foundation.

How did your predecessors fare in this charter of equity pact?

Did they talk about it? I can’t remember any of my predecessors that has said this thing, rather some of them were saying that they would hold power for donkey years; that power can never move. Go and ask the Ukwa-Ngwa people, they will tell you. They were the people who were saying it that past governors were specific and said power would never

come to them. And that’s why, today, they are very appreciative, that somebody has come and said, ’ah, you are my people, we are one.’ This thing should rotate like this, so that every person can have a taste of power and can show his performance in governance.

Is this the first time power is going to that side?

Since Adam and Eve, since they were created, Ukwa-Ngwa people have never been governor; either military or civilian. This is the first time, and that’s why they are happy.

And there’s peace?

Yes, there’s peace.

The main contender, from which part is he?

He’s from Arochukwu Should anybody fault that power should go to the other side That is the problem. That’s why we are not very comfortable with his stance because we believe as a true son of Abia, he should allow peace to reign. He is not from Ukwa-Ngwa he’s from Arochukwu local government, his house is there. He has a very big house in Arochukwu local government, that’s his place. But because of his ambition, he wants to be governor by all means. He now decided to deny that he is from Arochukwu.

Even where he says he comes from doesn’t favour him because it’s in Abia Central. And when he came to me on this issue, I told him, that we, as a party, have decided that this thing should move this way. He said that he’s an Ukwa-Ngwa man; that’s what he told me. If you are then go and convince them, because there’s no way they can appreciate you more than their own son. So that’s the problem he’s having, because what we have done is built on solid foundation, religiously and otherwise.

Let’s go national now. The economic problem in the country whereby some states are not able to pay workers’ salaries, what do you think is happening?

You know our main source of income is the oil, and when the price falls it affects every other thing. It’s a global problem, it’s affecting us now.

What you have said is correct; many states are owing. Like my state, even though we are not owing civil servants, there are some parastatals that are supposed to be self-sustaining that we are owing, and teachers also. It’s not peculiar to Abia, it’s everywhere.

We just ask those that are being owed to be patient and that with time they will be paid. This is not the first time this kind of thing is happening. It happened before. When the economy is bad it affects every other sector.

What are the immediate and long term steps we should begin to look at towards solving this problem?

The immediate problem is to tell the people to brace up for lean times. Then internally generated revenue; people have to pay their taxes, as there are many who don’t pay taxes. If you go to some to pay taxes they would bring out machete and pursue you. So, we have to drive for internally generated revenue with all amount of seriousness so that you don’t depend on the federal government for allocation. And people have to be resourceful also; people have to be self-sustaining.

Everybody should not be looking for white collar jobs – you want to go and work in the ministry, you want to go and work in the bank, you want to go and work in oil sector. We want you to be self-sustaining, open up your own business and grow. Let there be less dependence on government, so that government can concentrate on other things; every month, the fund you use to pay salaries is more than what you use to work.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY JUNE 3, 2015

45

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To have a successful tenure as the President, Gen. Buhari (rtd)should come up with his set priorities. He should not set many targets for himself. He should simply choose what Nigerians want him to do, and what we want him to do is to put Nigeria in its rightful place

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POLITICS

The former Director-General of the Amosun Campaign Organisation, Chief Bode Mustapha, is the former National Auditor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In this interview with Assistant Editor BOLA OLAJUWON, he speaks about the victory of Governor Ibikunle Amosun, his relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and why he joined the APC.

‘We’ll floor Ogun PDP at tribunal’

A

S the Director-General of the Amosun Campaign Organisation, what is your comment on the success of the APC in the general election, especially in Ogun State?

I think that came about because we had a governor who was performing. It’s like a salesman who has a good product to sell, and when you have a good product to market, it makes the job easy. Secondly, our campaign was grassroots-based, not elitist. We campaigned in 236 wards and over 300 different locations to showcase what we have done and present what we would do in the rural areas, to show that development has started in the urban areas and is moving to the rural areas. So, that made the difference in the campaign.

I can also tell you that even some of the House of Assembly seats that we lost, we found out that there were over-voting and manipulations. As such, we are challenging some of them at the tribunal and we are sure we are going to win. Although with the new electoral law, there would be no possibility of declaring anybody as the winner. We will have to go for election again and that will also include the Ogun East Senatorial District.

We are dealing with a person called Senator Ibikunle Amosun, who knows exactly what he wants to do from day one when he came into the office, and has been following that to the letter. Just like he knows what he wants to do over the next four years, to turn Ogun State into an Eldorado.

So, the campaign was not too much of a difficult for us, because we had a good product to sell.

Initially, did you have any fear that the governor might not win with the hurdle posed by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)?

I never had any fear. The reason being that Amosun came in 2011 as

a grassroots man; people wanted him. Of course, you would not try to discountenance the Chief Olusegun Osoba factor. But then, by time Amosun became governor, he became his own man. He was delivering on dividends of democracy and his promises to the electorate.

The fact that he was delivering, I have no fear at all that he would win.

How do you think the state can leverage on the APC victory for the overall development of the state?

First of all, for the last four years, the governor has been practically squeezing water out of stone to create development. Just like China, because of their population and to keep their people in work, developmental projects are always ongoing.

Because that is when the dealer in cement will sell, the carpenter will work, the artisans will work, the masons will work, the supplier of sand will supply and the supplier of granite will be in business. Development has a way of creating a multiplier effect on the entire population and society. Don’t forget that for the last 18 months or thereabouts, what was coming from the Federation Account was not even enough to pay salaries and wages in Ogun State.

But with his ingenuity, the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state rose from about N600 to N700 million in a month to about N6 billion.

He is responsible for the developmental project he is doing. Now, he has his other plans. He has just signed an agreement for inter and intra rail system. The reason is simple: if there is no rail system in transportation, how do farmers bring their wares to the market? I remembered that maybe six to seven years ago, I went to a place called Guangzhou in China; it took us about six hours to get there from Shanghai. Two years ago, I went to

•Mustapha

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By time Amosun became governor, he became his own man.

He was delivering on dividends of democracy and his promises to the electorate. The fact that he was delivering, I have no fear at all that he would win

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the same place. It took us two and an half hours. What happened? They have provided a train system that went over large expanse of water.

When you have transportation, rural integration and rural development becomes a gain. I am sure that with a rail system in place, Governor Amosun will turn Ogun State into an Eldorado. I have no doubt in my mind about that.

Having achieved your set objectives as the head of the campaign organisation, what is your next line of action?

I have a project I am running, I have my office. I will go back to my business. I am into consultancy and mining, and this takes a lot of my

time. I am already in my business.

Do you have any fear about the PDP winning at the tribunal?

No way. Why should I have any fear, the minority will always have a say and the majority will have their way. They are going to tribunal in exercise of their fundamental human rights and we are also going to the tribunal on the senatorial seat in Ogun East. By the time we all come back from the tribunal, we would know who has rigged and who has not rigged. We welcome the development, because once we win at the tribunal for the governorship, we will win the petition on the senatorial election. It will show that the APC won squarely in Ogun State. If not for rigging and manipulation, we won’t have lost Ogun East Senatorial District. We welcome that development.

What is your hope from the tribunal?

We would win. In the case of Ogun East, once we win at the tribunal, we would be told to go back for election for a re-run and we would win.

You are seen as Obasanjo faithful and a former PDP member.

How do you see your transformation from a PDP member into APC faithful and Amosun Campaign’s director-general?

Well, first of all, like I always say to people, my political party is Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. So, if you found me in APC, there must have been a reason for me going to the party.

Why would I continue to stay with the PDP in which I was maltreated and injustice was meted out on me?

I won at the convention, as the National Secretary of the party; I was nominated, I was voted for and some people went to procure a court judgment to favour the person who did not even obtain nomination form for the office of the National Auditor. I made appeal to the leader of the party, and he turned deaf ears.

And I said to myself, what am I doing in a party where injustice is the order of the day? Remember, the same thing was done also to Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, as National Secretary. The three of us, including former Governor Segun Oni, they

called us Obasanjo boys, and we are proud to be Obasanjo boys and we remain Obasanjo boys for life. So, we have to move on. We started the New PDP with other members who didn’t like what was happening. But they used the powers of government to hunt us all over the place, and we thought of what next to do. Then, we joined the APC. Whether we were of any value while in PDP, it has come out glaringly. At that time, I used to have one slogan I reiterated to everybody. It was a very interesting Yoruba phrase, which says kato kini, kato rini, odabo oja (translating to: We shall know the winner after the contest). Whether we had any value or not, we can see the difference now. Even the National Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Mua’zu, talked about injustice in PDP, which means that PDP was a party of injustice. Maybe now that they have learnt their lessons, they would pick up their pieces and form a formidable opposition party. I also hope they will stop meting out injustice to other people.

How do you see yourself as an Obasanjo faithful and an APC faithful?

You see, before Obasanjo talks, he thinks. He sees, he foresees and he doesn’t talk before he thinks. He thinks before he acts and he sees things that we don’t see. That’s what God has blessed him with. If he tells me tomorrow to leave the APC for any reason, I would not ask him why; I would leave, because my loyalty is to him. As a person, he is a state man, he is no longer in any party; he has risen above partisan politics. He is a father of the nation and Africa. If tomorrow he sees APC derailing and he advises and they don’t take it, if he says to me: ‘Bode Mustapha quit politics’. I would quit politics. Because whatever advice or instruction he gives, is always in our own best interest. So, he is not a difficult person; just a principled person, who has the interest of Nigeria at heart all the time. You can say what you like about him, whatever he says always comes to pass. As far as am concerned, Obasanjo is the

Social critic Olawole Oladeji writes on the need for President Muhammadu Buhari to reduce the cost of governance, block financial loopholes and wage war against graft in high places.

Buhari and challenge of leadership

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HE political landscape has put on a new look, following the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government. The inauguration has effectively put an end to the 16-year reign of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which once called itself the Africa’s largest political party. APC is now the ruling and the dominant party. Although many did not see this coming, but it is now a reality that PDP, which many of its followers have vowed that it would be in power for 60 years is about to become an Opposition Party.

Nigerians, home and abroad have high hopes and expectations about him and the leadership of the APC. It is not going to be an easy task for the President-elect. However, it must be put on record that Nigerians who came out on March 28, 2015 to cast their votes for Gen. Buhari (rtd) were the ones that brought about the real change in government and not only the President-elect or the leadership of his Party, APC. They voted for him because they believed that his leadership would bring about positive changes in governance. Therefore, it must be clear that Nigerians

would no doubt use the same approach they used in sending President Goodluck Jonathan and PDP out of power if the APC does not meet their expectations.

However, it is gratifying to note that the APC has promised to be a governing party and not the ruling party as we have had under the PDPled Federal Government. That in itself is a remarkable signpost of what to come. If indeed it would be a governing party, then it is safe that the incoming government takes a lesson from the fall of the PDP-led Federal Government, where the rulers lord themselves over the rest of us.

To have a successful tenure as the President, Gen. Buhari (rtd)should come up with his set priorities. He should not set many targets for himself. He should simply choose what Nigerians want him to do, and what we want him to do is to put Nigeria in its rightful place.

Nigerians would like to know how President Jonathan and his team spent government revenue under their watch. It is our right to know how the money was spent, and we would not accept anything less from the incoming administration. To

achieve this task in a country like Nigeria where corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of her government, I would suggest thatthe President-elect should simply go through the books. For instance, the claim by a former Governor of the Central Bank, now Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, that $20bn, that was supposed to be remitted by the NNPC to the federation account should be looked into, and those who are involved should be allowed to face the music. The N255m car scandal of the former aviation minister, now a senator-elect, Stella Oduah should be properly investigated. Although, she has already been indicted by the committee that was set up by President Goodluck Jonathan, yet the presidency is yet to take any decisive action on her.

On the economy, Nigerians would like to know its true state. According to the British Member of Parliament (MP) and Shadow Secretary for international Development, Mr. Ivan Lewis, Nigeria is too rich for its people to live in ‘’extreme poverty’’ and deprivation. Butthe truth of the matter is that Nigeria is broke.

Unfortunately, in an interview with

CNN’s Richard Quest, the Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Okonjo-Iweala, denied this by saying that the country is not broke despite the cash crunch currently being experienced.

Thus, the President-elect must let Nigerians know their true status.

Nigerians voted for him, and a lot of people died in the course of ensuring that they effected the real change in the nation’s economy.

The President must cut deep all the excesses in government. There is no doubt that the cost of governance in Nigeria is not sustainable.Thus, we do not deserve a President who will continue with the status quo. Nigerians do not need forty two ministers and countless number of SAs in Buhari’s government. Thus, he should reduce the size of his cabinet. He should also implement the recommendations of the Oronsaye committee on restructuring of Federal Ministries, Agencies, parastatals and commissions. The committee, while submitting its report on 16th April, 2012, said government would save over N862 billion between 2012 and 2015 if the recommendations of the committee were implemented.

Unfortunately, President Goodluck Jonathan did not implement any of the

•Buhari

recommendations made by the Committee.

The President will need to look into the 25 percent of the recurrent expenditure of the Federal Government’s budget which is being allocated to the National Assembly of just 469 members every year. He should put the sensitivities, wishes and aspirations of Nigeriansin the front burner of his government. That is the only way he can earn the respect and confidence of the people.

The President should alsoaddress the issue of oil subsidy. Despite the fact that price of oil has gone down at the international market, Nigerians are still buying oil at the same amount that they used to buy it before the price came down.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

46

SHOWBIZ

AVRS takes campaign to Kano, Abuja

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ESPECT for intellectual property in Nigeria is expected to take a serious turn, as stakeholders of the film industry participated massively in a meeting organised by Audio Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS) in Kano and Abuja, penultimate week.

AVRS, Nigeria’s collective management organization for cinematograph films, in February, kick-started the enlightenment campaign series for stakeholders in the film industry in Lagos, with the train moving to Asaba and Benin in April, after the general elections.

The success stories of earlier events may have re-energised the interest of Kano-based filmmakers who turned out to attend the forum which held at Ni’ima Guest Palace Conference Centre, Old GRA, Kano State.

Frontline filmmaker and chairman of AVRS, Mahmood Ali-Balogun, remarked that the power of any film medium is largely based on its outreach. This he noted, underscores the recognition of the wide viewership of Hausa films across West and East Africa in particular, which influenced DSTV to open Africa Magic Hausa as a dedicated channel. He enjoined Kano-based filmmakers to formalise their membership of AVRS in order to enjoy the benefits of residual income guaranteed by annual payment of

royalties.

The Kano State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Professor Umar F. Jibril, commended the Federal Government for the approval of AVRS which he described as the best thing to happen to Nigeria’s film industry since independence.

“The Nigerian film industry has grown through various stages since our political independence in 1960,” Jibril said.

“And this includes various levels of public exploitation of our creativity, especially with the advent of Nollywood. Having endured this wanton exploitation for decades, while watching our counterparts in other parts of the world benefit from royalties paid on their copyright works, it was a heart-warming development when the news of the approval of AVRS by Nigerian Copyright Commission broke.

Make no mistake about it, nothing can boost national productivity from the angle of creative industries more than a reliable intellectual property protection system to ensure that our labours will not be in vain, in the long run.”

Also speaking, the North-West Zonal Manager of Nigerian Copyright Commission, Alhaji Hassan Usman who represented the Director-General, Mr. Afam Ezekude, reiterated the commitment of NCC

Don’t show preference between your artistes, fan tells Don Jazzy

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AVIN Records boss, Michael Collins, aka Don Jazzy is not one to shy away from controversies. On Sunday night, the music icon posted a tweet, where he compared Korede Bello and Reekado Banks, who are signed to his Record label.

“Korede Bello and Reekado, who’s more talented?” he asked.

Expectedly, the tweet spawned a lot of reactions. And while many fans simply stated their preferences, a couple of them just expressed a decision not to choose either singer over the other.

A respondent, Queen Eno, was one of the latter. “Both of them are your kids,” she replied. “You don’t have to choose one over the

• Mr. Andy Amenechi a director of AVRS adressing stakeholders at the Abuja meeting

towards the total eradication of intellectual property rights abuse in Nigeria. According to him, “piracy is a cancer that has unfortunately metastasized in the body of our creative industries, and as such cannot be stamped out overnight. The NCC is doing its best to eradicate the cancer and would continue to partner with active stakeholders to make more progress.”

Directors of AVRS, Prince Jide Kosoko, Mr. Fidelis Duker and Dr. Ahmed Sarari who anchored the event, also called on their colleagues • Don Jazzy

2014.

Both artistes, however, featured alongside label mates Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Di’Ja, Dr SID and D’Prince on the widely loved song Dorobucci, which was also released last year.

Lack of good management slowed me down, says Jhybo

By Adewoyin Adeniyi

• Jhybo

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OLLOWERS of indigenous rap music predicted that Jhybo will be the next artiste to be reckoned with, after the demise of Dagrin, but the story today, is otherwise.

The artiste, in a recent chat with The Nation, talked about why he couldn’t meet that expectation.

“Firstly, God decides whose time it is,” he said. “But also, I didn’t have a Management that could take me to that level , but now things are different, so let’s keep watching”.

Jhybo is known for his hit track Run their mouth, featuring the much sought- after dancehall queen, Cynthia Morgan of North side Inc, a music label owned by PSquare’s elder brother and Manager, Jude Okoye.

Speaking on why he has been

quiet for some time now, he said, “I had to finish all personal stuffs colliding with my musical career, and most importantly, I had was having problems with my former Record label, I couldn’t put out any work till my contract expiration, but now I am done with it”.

He however hinted that he is back with more of what will turn out to be hits. “We are going to be dropping hits with videos to remind everybody that Jhybo is back,” he said.

With the likes of Olamide and Reminisce still trending, indigenous rap music, in recent times, has created a niche in the Nigerian music industry.

Olamide collaborates with Kcee, Harrysong, HILE his latest release, new track.

Sound Sultan a Shortly Bobo, is still receiving after that, he revealed

W

massive airplay, Olamide seems not to be resting on his oars, having just announced a double collaboration with Five Star music acts, Kcee, and Harrysong.

He made this known via his Instagram handle, on Tuesday.

By Adewoyin Adeniyi

The rapper was joined by Kcee and Harrysong at his Magodo office, to record two different songs. Sound Sultan came in later on to record Olamide’s verses for

participants that the NCC is adopting new measures in the fight against piracy.

“As new technologies evolve and piracy shifts more and more from physical to digital,” Akpan said, “the NCC has articulated a novel approach to nip digital piracy in the bud. This will soon take effect in collaboration with approved collective management organizations in the creative industries.”

Both events were well-attended by professionals in the industry.

I’m not riding on Wizkid fame, says Praiz

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By Joe Agbro Jr

other when you know they are talented. Just continue to be nice to them.” both of them are signed on to Mavin Records, and they have both had their individual successes.

Korede Bello shot into limelight with his 2015 hit track, Godwin, which has been enjoying tremendous air play and invites to perform at shows.

On the other hand, Reekado premiered the single Turn It Up in 2014 and in February, he released the Don Jazzy-produced song, Katapot. He was also declared Rookie of the Year at The Headies

in Kano to show stronger commitment to the anti-piracy struggle by supporting AVRS in its bid to get commercial users of audio visual works to pay for their usage.

The general manager of AVRS, Ms. Eme Akiba-Eyo, a legal practitioner, joined the chairman and directors to respond to the issues raised, with detailed explanation of national and international legal frameworks of collective management.

The Abuja Forum which held at Merit House, Mr. Mike Akpan, deputy director of NCC, assured

that he has just finished a collaboration with Sound Sultan. “#Teamislanders studio bangbang hit them up level… no zigima parole Sound Sultan ft baddo …. Work before you flenjo…. Never joke with your last card #YBNL.

OTABLE Project Fame artiste, Praise Adejo, aka Praiz, was the guest artiste last Friday on the Tweet Chat #KimaniOffAir, hosted by @cutekimani.

While correcting the notion that he featured Wizkid in one of his singles, just to ride on the latter’s fame, the Rich & Famous crooner said: “We have always wanted to do a song together and, in fact, Sisi was the second song we recorded together.”

During the twitter interview, he also stated that, he has never seen Iyanya as his competitor. “He was never my competition,” he added.

The weekly chat with notable personalities from all industries, also dwell on current issues, such as electricity, fuel and the nation’s security situation.

Another revelation made by the artiste was that he would like to own properties in Kaduna, Kaduna State.

Praiz, who is signed to X3M Music, has done tracks like Oshe, in collaboration with Awilo Longomba, and Sweet Potato, featuring Chidinma.

• Praiz

Who is beefing Dr Sid?

I

• Dr Sid

T is not certain who Mavin Record act, Dr Sid, was referring to, when he tweeted on his wall over the weekend, saying; “To all my haters and critics out there, I have a message for you...”

The message was backed up with a plaque, bearing a lengthy inscription: “Don’t be the person who tears down some else’s hard work. The world needs more people who contribute their gifts and share their work and ideas.

Working up the courage to do that can be tough. Support the people who display that courage.”

Dr Sid and wife who recently welcomed a baby girl in California, alongside the Mavin Record stars, thrilled fans in Ghana at the just-concluded Ghana Meets Naija concert, which took place on Saturday, May 23rd.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

47

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Scholars and theatre artists converged on Abuja to examine the impact of women-centred drama, theatre and performance on humanity during the 50th birthday celebration of Prof Mabel Evwierhoma, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports.

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DON, Prof Sunday E. Ododo of the Theatre Arts Department, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, has urged womanist ideologists to up the gains of their literary contributions by taking their campaigns to the relevant audience.

He said they should also share such gains among Nigerians by opening new performance spaces that can attract large audience turnout. Ododo noted that the ideologists should take the message to the rural dwellers and engage other relevant agencies in the advocacy.

Ododo spoke on Nature and nurture: WomenCentred Drama, theatre and performance in Nigeria at the Mabel @ 50 Conference held in Abuja in honour of Prof Mabel Evwierhoma, who turned 50 years recently.

Among those who attended the conference were Professors Olu Obafemi, Rasaki Ojo Bakare, Julie Okoh, Irene Salami-Agunloye, Tracie Utoh-Ezeajugh and Osita Ezenwanebe.

Others were the Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mrs Dayo Keshi; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Godknows Igali, and Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation, Dr. Barclays Ayakoroma.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of Festschrift and the cutting of birthday cake.

The Festschrift Gender Discourse in African Theatre in honour of Evwierhoma is a 38-chapter book edited by Ayakoroma and Utoh Ajeajugh of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.

Speaking on the theme of the conference, Ododo defined nature and nurture as twin words that are associated with the developmental process of human beings. He noted that while nature emphasises the innate and inherited qualities of the individual, nurture engages the human behaviour as determined by the environment and other acquired personal experiences.

He noted that the Nigerian theatre has its evolutionary history that is located in innate culture and has grown, acquiring values of entertainment forms of other world cultures to sustain and reinvent itself.

According to him, a plant with its distinct nature has enjoyed the nurturing of many hands, values, ideas, experimentations, traditions and the constantly changing sociohistorical realities of human’s existence.

He, however, decried that though in theatre, ideas to create new worlds for humanity to learn from are cultivated but such worlds are often not nurtured to manifest their full

•Prof Evwierhoma (centre) flanked by Prof Ododo, Prof Obafemi and other colleagues and friends

‘Take your campaigns to relevant audience’ CELEBRATION potential for our gains.

“When we nurture our world it would give birth to new ideas and ventures. There are times of flourishing and abundance, when life feels in full bloom, energised and expanding.

“And there are times of fruition, when things come to an end. They have reached their climax and must be harvested before they begin to fade. And finally of course, there are times that are cold, and cutting and empty, times when the spring of new beginning seems like a distant dream.

“Those rhythms in life are natural events.

They weave into one another as day follows night, bringing, not messages of hope and despair, but messages of how things are. It is when we know how things are that we can take a stand to either live with them or change them,” he added.

He hoped that participants would emerge with ideas on how best to push women-centred

issues in the country. “As the conference opens, without pre-empting its outcome, it is, therefore, my hope and belief that the participants would come up with fresh strategies for addressing women-centred issues in Nigeria and how to get majority of Nigerians to key into feminist theatre advocacy.

“I, especially, look forward to seeing how feminist theatre can help in the recovery of the Chibok girls and how the first senate president can emerge as predicted by Irene Salami-Agunloye,” he said.

Ododo, who has known the celebrator since 1987, described Evwierhoma as an eloquent example of hard work, resilience, honesty, integrity, industry, capacity and resourcefulness, saying she is God-fearing and has genuine commitment to her calling.

He continued: “In all these, she is unassuming, humble and humane. To a large extent, she lives by what she advocates and to that extent she is an inspiration to many people and a pride to womanhood.

“This genderist is also a motherist; this quality

manifests clearly in many social works she has been involved in and community services rendered. In our postgraduate class at the University of Ibadan, she was the youngest but assumed the motherist role for the class, feeding us occasionally from the kitchen of Princess Theodora Ewemade Tobrise (her mother). ”The reward of motherhood is not essentially in reaping from the proceeds of that effort directly but the satisfaction of contributing agents of change for a better humanity”.

According to Ododo, the life of Evwierhoma should be the greatest inspiration for female emancipation and not necessarily her writings, noting that at 50, she has recorded modest but loud and engaging achievements as a Professor, author, cultural activist, Dean of Arts, Fellow of SONTA and moulder of character. ”She has a status that cannot be wished away; a presence that is compelling and commanding; an intellect that is admired and respectable; a heart that is compassionate and accommodating, a husband that is loving, caring and very supportive; children that are responsible and responsive; a home that is peaceful and inviting. ”All these attribute position Evwierhoma as a phenomenal success worthy of emulation. She sits comfortably on this high pedestal today out of due sacrifice, self-denial, hard work and determination to reach her goals; and not a product of any gender friendly/sensitive legislation in favour of women. ”If this is the kind of female militancy you preach, you have my support. This is how to earn the gender equity you advocate. “It is my submission, therefore, that no woman (and indeed no man) is subjugated or repressed but our self-imposed repression is the barrier that stands in our way to our lofty destinations. I say to our women, rise and take a stand like Evwierhoma and your story will never be the same again,” Ododo said.

Earlier, Chairman of the occasion, Igali acknowledged that Evwierhoma has achieved so much at 50, adding that the fact that so many people have came to celebrate her was an indication that God has used her to touch many lives. ”Today, this audience is presented with a proud mother, a proud wife, a proud sister and a scholar of no mean repute,” Igali said.

Elated by the rain of encomiums, Evwierhoma described the event as another opportunity to thank God for His mercies in her life.

She said: “It is awesome because I see it as an opportunity to thank God for how He has led me in the academy and the enablement He has endowed me with, especially in the area of teaching, research and community service.”

Rélè Gallery hosts Strip

Honour for ex-journalist

By Evelyn Osagie

EXHIBITION

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HE select audience members were drawn mainly from the academia.

And they belong to the same genre of the art-theatre. The mood at the Main Auditorium of Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State revealed the essence of the gathering - a celebration of service to humanity and marital bliss.

It was a gathering in honour of the former Arts Editor, The Sun and lecturer at the university, Mr Sola Balogun, who clocked 50.

He was also celebrating 20 years of marital bliss.

Expectedly, students of the Department of Theatre and Media Arts performed Withered Seed, a play written by Sola Balogun, which uses the themes of love, tolerance in marriage, unity and peace to dramatise the current security challenges facing in the country, where the Boko Haram insurgents have used bombings to cause panic in northern Nigeria.

But the Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Dr Barclays Foubiri Ayakoroma, described Balogun as a Nigerian whose commitment and determination to contribute to the development of Nigerian culture made him a successful culture journalist.

He described Balogun as a versatile arts and culture journalist who rose through the ranks to become Arts Editor before moving over to academics.

Ayakoroma said through his reportorial and editorial abilities, Balogun had contrib-

L

•From left: Dr Ayakoroma, Mr Balogun and wife, Pastor Ezeh and Prof Bakare

uted immensely to the Nigerian literary scene just as he did the culture sector.

“I have known Sola Balogun (SB) for a very long time. He has this love towards arts and culture. I taught him in his second year in the Department of Theatre Arts, at the University of Ibadan. Then, as an arts and culture journalist in Nigeria, I followed up on his career. He is a good writer; he has determination to succeed in whatever he does; it reflects in his stories on arts and culture.

“He is into advocacy and developmental journalism. I recall that when I was in charge of Bayelsa State Arts Council, we depended on Sola Balogun (and Patrick Nwagbo Obi), to see our news stories in various print media.

With this, I can say without equivocation that,

Balogun has contributed immensely to the growth of the Nigerian arts and culture sector. Furthermore, as an arts editor in The Sun Newspaper, he contributed invaluably to the growth of those who worked under him.”

Continuing, he said: “Now that he is in academics, he is also doing very well. This is obvious in his play, “Withered Seed” that was staged as part of the birthday event. I want to congratulate the students for such a fine performance. You have celebrated the birthday, as far as I am concerned.”

The event was attended by the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Prof Bakare Ojo Rasaki; Prof Bayo Oloyode, Pastor Chukwuemeka Eze, Dr. ‘Bifatife Olufemi Adeseye among others.

AGOS’ new art destination, the Rélè Gallery, has unveiled its fourth exhibition of modern and contemporary art entitled Strip.

Strip is an investigation of the human anatomy, according to the gallery. The exhibition was a termed collection of nude art by a vibrant group of artists - Kelechi Amadi-Obi, Reze Bonna, Ayoola, Ibe Ananaba, Isaac Emopkae, Logor and Toyosi Kekere-Ekun.

The exhibition, which is in various exciting mediums, such as plexiglas and photography on aluminium, attempts to provoke keen engagement, deconstruct myths and truths of power, shame, freedom, beauty and the different shades of attendant feelings that accompany an encounter with a naked body.

The art show, which sponsored by foremost champagne house, Laurent-Perrier Champagne, curated by art/culture writer, Ayodeji Rotinwa and broadcaster/culture savant, Wana Udobang.

Guests in attendance enjoyed glasses of Laurent-Perrier’s impressive range of Champagne (the Brut, Demi-Sac and Rose) as they took in the art on display. The exhibition was a curatorial debut for both Rotinwa and Udobang; and was praised for its triumphant start by guests in attendance made up of Lagos’s collectors, art enthusiasts, captains of industry, the lifestyle industry and social media influencers.

Strip will run till this Sunday at the gallery opened for four months ago and has continued to garner accolades for its accessible and edgy exhibitions.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

The Midweek Magazine Cleric advises youths on talent use

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

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EPRESENTATIVE of The Living Word Family, David Babajide Nadi has emerged the overall winner of LAGOS SHIFT 2015 Ambassador organised by the National Youth Affairs of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). It was held at the Cricket Arena, the Tafawa Balawa Square, (TBS) Lagos.

The event, which was tagged: Exceeding Expectation drew together thousands of youths and was held simultaneously in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja featuring comedy, dance expression and music. Nadi emerged winner after winning the music category and Precious Uban, an 11-year-old boy from the Mountain Top Secondary School won the round up prize.

Dance Evangelists, a group comprising six members won the dance category. There were auditions held in seven centres around the country before selection of about 10 contestants for the final phase of the competition. Winners emerged from different categories of performance such as comedy, dance, public speaking and singing.

The Special Adviser to General Overseer of RCCG on Personnel and Administration, Pastor Johnson Odesola said that programme is aimed at harnessing the gift of today’s youth toward a brighter future.

He noted that the anomaly in today’s world could be corrected by this generation that has enormous abilities, vigour, talents and skills which when utilise on godly principles would create a more just, equity and peaceful society.

He blamed the increasing spate of insurgency as a result of long years of neglect, marginalisation and indifference to the well being and development of young people.

Odesola said that ‘records have shown that between the ages of 15-17 years old, boys are

•From left: Pastor Charles Kpandi, Odesola, Nadi and Pastor Toks Adetayo

By Adeola Ogunlade

COMPETITION being used by members of the Boko Haram sect in the name of Alamagris to foment mayhem and terminate innocent souls because government and other stakeholders failed to catch them young’.

He went further to appeal to the new ambassador to keep the light shining and represent the interest of Jesus Christ in all that they do.

He continued: “RCCG is quite doing a lot in that regard, to empower the youth who are talented in various professions. Various programmes are being mapped to make this

happen”.

National Youth Pastor of RCCG, Pastor Belemina Obunge said that the faith based initiative which is aimed at discovery and harnessing the talents of young people started in Lagos in 2012 and has spread to other parts of Nigeria and the world.

He also said that the shift initiative has gone beyond Nigeria and has visited Dubai, Istanbul, Nairobi, South Africa, Ghana in the past 4 years.

Obunge noted that the programme helps to expose youths to morally and ethically sound ways of living so they in turn can influence others as well as offering them opportunity to express themselves by showcasing their talents, gifts and creative abilities.

He said ‘as Christian youth of this generation, our best is yet to come. We are trusting God to break more grounds, do more exploits, reach out more for the lord and be the best in all that we do’.

Human Resource Management Consultant, OluJimi Tewe challenged the youths to leverage and explore their talents, skills and the ability in them for the betterment of the society. “You are the solution to your generation and until you understand that, you will realise that you cannot save your generation,” he said. He noted that the world is facing hard times as all the sectors of the nation’s economy is yearning for change, new ideas, concept and critical thinking, which can be done by a solution driven youths.

Ojetayo Oluwadamilare a.k.a Ajakaye in the music world, hails from Oke-Igbo in Ondo State.A graduate of the College of Agriculture in Lafia, Nasarawa State, he is the brain behind ‘the Sai Buhari’theme song. In an interview with DAMISI OJO, the celebrated song writer and composer seeks compensation for his initiative from APC leaders and President Muhammadu Buhari.

‘Buhari’s victory is like I won the Grammy’

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E answers Ojetayo Oluwadamilare but his stage name is “Ajakaye,” which signifies the philosophy to use his musical talent to globally win any war.Today,Ajakaye’s name is making waves as a politically-conscious Nigerian song writer, artiste and musician.

How did you become a musician in spite of your career as an agriculturist?

Like every other African child with various potential, and as a toddler then,I was told how I started responding to anything with sound and music orientation,and my parents also told me that the music craft is a talent that runs in the blood of every Oje(member of the masquerade society).This potential developed in me and continue to grow and overshadow all other potentials embedded in me.

What prompted your linkage with the “Sai Buhari” theme song?

That theme song is just my own way of thinking aloud and making my own artistic and critical contribution to positively impact on Nigeria.But as one of those Nigerian youths affected adversely by the mal-administration, mis-governance, ineptitude, corruption and political hostilities of the ruling PDP stakeholders in the past 16 years, I had to do a clinical appraisal of the political situation and come up with that rendition.The Sai-Baba theme song was produced by the same Paul Runz and it was released on House-2 Entertainment Recording label. The man is today Nigerian’s oldest Hip Hop Artiste with stage name Dibio Dombolo.

What other impact do you think “Sai Buhari” song has on the APC campaign?

I can authoritatively tell you that in showbiz attainment and in the socio-political history of Nigeria,no political theme song

•SaiBaba

has received such unprecedented admirers like the Sai Buhari song has. Even,the MKO Hope’93 theme song cannot match it.The APC 2015 Presidential theme song officially released on-line in early November but became a hit and went viral immediately it was released on-line on Saturday, November 22,2014 by Naija loud speaker.com(NLS).This was preceded by another on-line review done on the www.abdusidiqu.com where the song was

given serious review and attention as the writer predicted the viral effect the song will have in due course.The page has 36 tweets,50 Fb likes while it reached their 8,495 fb fans and 2,771 twitter followers simultaneously. Even,the selective and highly controversial Sahara Reporter.com could not overlook the creativity package, the ideological work,posted it and it also nearly shut down their site as the song received over 2003 likes and over 708 comments.

With your successful outing,there is no doubt that APC leaders would have rewarded your robust initiative,let us know your gains.

No compensation at all yet.The only thing the song has done for me is increasing my adrenalin in form of threats from the PDP supporters who at every opportunity tried to scare me,my family members and fans over the Sai-Buhari Theme song.The glory and fame that were expected to have been associated with that effort had also increased their envy.Let me state it here that the PDP supporters in the corporate world have been threatening me with fire and brimstone that if Gen.Muhammadu Buhari lost the election that would be the end of my musical career.So,you can see that the success recorded by Buhari/Osinbajo as President-elect and Vice-President elect is like I have won the prestigious Grammy and AMAA awards combined.

Are you saying APC leaders are yet to recognise you for your musical exploits on the victory of Buhari?

Yes,I can say it boldly that APC has not compensated me on Sai-Buhari Theme song.As you said,settling and acknowledgement are in relative terms.The only thing I am so happy about is that the song has continued to increase my physical and on-line

rating as one of the best writers,a notable singer and performer in Nigeria.

While I was toiling day and night to write and produce the song,some reactionary forces within the APC rank and file tried all they could to frustrate my efforts,but to God be the glory, it was a successful outing.

What efforts have you made to seek relevance and get APC leaders to appreciate you?

I have made frantic efforts to see the Ondo State Chairman of the APC,Isaac Kekemeke, who tried his best as a followup to the songs I composed for Mr Rotimi Akeredolu,during the 2012 governorship campaign under the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN).I also met the articulate spokesman of the APC,Alhaji Lai Mohammed whose promises I am still awaiting.Alhaji Mohammed exchanged his e-mail contact with me when I contacted him on phone.He spoke like a father to me for over 10 minutes and gave assurances that I will be rewarded as soon as possible.I also contacted APC leaders like Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Hon Bola Ilori. I have no doubt that these men of integrity will look into my case.

What do you actually want from the APC now?

The joy of every artiste is to be paid gratification for his musical exploits.I want the APC leaders to allow me perform on stage for the President-elect,Gen Buhari during his inauguration in Abuja on May 29.They can do me this favour since I was not allowed to be on the national campaign tour of Buhari/Osinbajo when it lasted,though my songs were blasted by different Deejays on their gramophone nationwide.I believe I deserve the recognition and reward.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

49

The Midweek Magazine Policing Nigeria

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

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Y brief is to introduce you to this compendium of 21 well researched book by scholars and experts from a wide range of disciplinelaw, criminology, security, history, law enforcement, counseling and general administration. These experts have, in concise manner, presented in 21 chapters different issues that reflect as well as capture the title of the book: Policing and Crime Preservation in Nigeria.

Today in Nigeria, few issues are as topical as those dealing with crime preservation and control. In fact, never a time in the history of this country, have we had the present level of insecurity kidnapping, insurgency, ethnic conflicts and robberies, among many others. With these myriads of security challenges, we are compelled to find solutions with the sole aim of solving them. Among these solutions, one can identify the need for effective and efficient policing. This, the book describes as the bedrock of productive law enforcement.

This book is therefore a modest contribution by the authors towards this effort.

On the basis of the foregoing, the authors have endeavoured to explore the subject by hinging the work on three critical assumptions: First, policing is a necessary and inevitable aspect of modest society. The second assumption rests on the question of whether it is possible to have a police service that is modern, proactive and impactful in law enforcement. On the last and final assumption, the book has attempted to make suggestions which the authors strongly believe will help policing and crime prevention. In dealing with these issues, seriatim, I choose to address them under the following relevant aspects.

On the issue of inevitability of policing modern society, the authors have argued that no modern society can exist without an efficient policing system. Policing is seen as a sine qua non for peace and the authors discussed the need to redirect the role and structure of the police, in particular the Nigeria Police Force, along the

BOOK REVIEW From Uzor Maxim Uzoatu Title:

Policing and crime prevention in Nigeria

Reviewer: Professor Cyril Ndifon

Editors:

Rekpene Bassey, Etanibi Alemika and Ojong Tangban

Pagination: 508 Publisher: The African Council On Narcotics And Crime Prevention lines of modern professional policing paradigm for more impactful law enforcement.

In the word of the lead editor: Whichever way we look at it, policing is important but telling career, full of toils and thanklessness. People find it so easy to derogate the police. This has been so even from the earliest times. The extent of police derogation is often expressed in all manner of nicknames given them by members of the public across the world.

While some refer to them as vultures, olopa, flatfoots, yansanda, Babylon, bastards and lawdogs, the more nasty persons call them dicks, titheads, khaki, men in black, bloodgang, old bills, blue locust and drones, etc. Most of these

appellations express dislike. But can we, for one second, imagine what our society will be like without the police. Of course there would be monumental anarchy.

There is no doubt that most of these appellations express dislike, but despite this, the million dollar question pops up: “can we, for one second, imagine what our society will be like without the police. Of course there would be monumental chaos”, stated Bassey the lead editor.

To the second assumption: it is possible to have a police service that is modern, proactive and impactful in law enforcement. In addressing the issue of the kind of policing we need, the need to redirect the role and structure of the police as discussed, in particular the Nigeria Police Force, along the line of modern, proactive and technologically driven. It argues strongly that the police must imbibe the culture of accountability and transparency, and more importantly in the case of Nigeria with more than 250 ethnic groups, effective policing system must recognise and take into account our straddled ethnic mores and peculiarities. The community, the book insists, must be made to buy into it.

On the last and final assumption: the book has attempted to make suggestions which are strongly believed will help improve policing and crime prevention.

These suggestions include: i. The need to put enlightenment programmes in place to educate the people or populace about ethics underling policing principle and practice. ii.The need for NPF to improve its management style, equipment and funding packages. iii. The need to bolster the morale of personnel of the force through the introduction of life insurance covers for police personnel. iv. Need for enhanced income, operational incentives disability benefits and recruitment entitlement. v. To check the level of police performance, an independent statistical evaluation of the NPF in crime prevention through crime survey needs to be introduced. This survey will provide an objective change to judge the police/law enforcement performance and change public perspective.

This work certainly evidence ingenuity, organisational ability and a simple to read approach. Aside from the language and style of writing which is quite lucid, I am

Hellish Vortexes of life’s battles

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hen the sun fails to shine and there is drought at the same time, then it becomes obvious that one could die of thirst while never witnessing the warmth of the elements. This expression aptly describes the repeated challenges which resulted in deciding fates between moving forward or giving it all up.

Michael Afenfia has put before his readers rhetoric that in this wise would attract countless answers; but how could one put to realistic use all of what the author has allowed his characters unravel when the hope that hitherto shimmers suddenly gets beclouded by the palpitations of gloom.

Bubaraye Dabowei is the typical example of breaking free from the distasteful shackle of broken homes which is often synonymous with failure. His attitude makes him basks in existential advantages by believing in the scientific application of positivity of practice. This deals with bracing the odds of his parents’ separation and leveraging the gift that the heavens complemented him with on his journey to earth; he, dexterous in the round leather game rose to fame and fortune first with Coach Belema McKay in Sharks of Port Harcourt and later at Tottenham Hotspur in England where he blossomed under the tutelage of Bryant Stewart. His is the typical story of grass to the lush meadow as regards success in England, becoming the cynosure of the passionate North London supporters and the darling football followers back home in Nigeria.

The story of life’s delightful privileges may be told in half but then from the southern part of Africa comes Nikiwe Dlomo, a South African raised in London, whose meeting with Bubaraye Dabowei at first held the promise of a relationship that would survive until one could say no more; but whilst the star footballer thought he was done with the pains and misery that his late mother went through

with his father, he in fact sweetly walked into a whirlpool of the sort, with his eyes open but the mechanism of his perceptive abilities evidently dysfunctional.

Conflict levels are always varied but when the duel being described is at the level of man against man, but attaining a god-man dimension then it calls for worry. A home divided against itself would fall no matter how long it is patched or padded. Such is the unravelling of the truth in the test of a couple’s character. Sweet was the song for the star footballer and his wife, the former Miss South Africa until her husband suffered a terrible injury. On a day that was meant to be the highlight of his career, having scored a great goal for his club against a Fredric Wood bridge handled Manchester United side.

Bubaraye jumped into the crowd of cheery supporters only to wake to a dislocated hip and a definite end to a long-pursued dream.

Hell was not let loose but the weighty impact of hades came crashing on the shoulders of the Dabowei’s leading to misery, secrets and mysteries of the human kind.

Nikiwe could not forever basks in the euphoria of a successful husband and now that football was a no-no, her career MUST be a yes-yes, afterall she was the toast of the modelling circle and can still hold her own to a great extent. A mother of an adorable son – Sylvester - and manager of a home that cannot and should not fail, Nikiwe came up with ways of being useful to herself and her family. So she thought at first until her husband wanted none of a wife that would waltz tirelessly before cameras, while jeopardizing the sacredness of their home to some money spinning unrealities on reality shows.

The desperation that comes with wanting a career so bad plunges Nikiwe into an adulterous affair with Nareej Praat, who is a subtle predator on willing preys. The colossal disappointment arising from not having her desires resulted in her frustrated resolve and return to Nigeria with her hus-

BOOK REVIEW From Uzor Maxim Uzoatu Title: Reviewer: Author: Pagination: Publisher:

Don’t Die on Wednesday Adeniyi Taiwo Kunnu Michael Afenfia 259 Origami Books

band – Bubaraye.

The psychological battle of the human mind has been given a commendable searchlight here. When one meets a brick wall having done everything one could, the quality of resilience could weaken while other distasteful options could be explored and dent to the psyche become severalpronged. Nikiwe battles the end to her husband’s career, struggles with her getting back on the career path, the unpredictable future and the loss of a once energetic and loving husband. On the other hand, Bubaraye is in fisticuffs with depression and

impressed with the thematic approach the editors have adopted in the treatment or discussion of the issues in focus. Right from the first to the fifth chapters, attempts were made to give us an insight into the origin, development and theoretical basis of the subject matter. Indeed, the evolution of the police force in Nigeria as well as the emergence of new crimes have been elaborately dealt with in these chapters.

The next thematic approach is that which deals with uses of internal security concerns. In chaptersseven to nine, the entire fields of militancy, amnesty and peace in the Niger Delta as well as general issues of internal insurgency and national security have been handled with such panache and competence by the various contributors. Interestingly, specific attention is also paid to matters of policing internal conflicts.

Another issue that has adequately been dealt with by the contributors is policing within the socio-economic relationship/human rights. –Chapters 10-17 cover issues of Peace, Youth, Spousal Violence against Women in Nigeria, Economic and Financial Crimes and Asset Tracing.

Finally, there is the international dimension of policing that is treated under the topic ‘The police and peace-keeping operation’ by Dr. Okom in chapter 18 of the book. The last three chapters of the book, to wit: chapter 19, 20 and 21 deal with such key issues, Socio-situational Crime Prevention, Crime Information Management and Police and the Reintegration of Offenders in Society.

Need I say more? The articles in this work are scholarly, characterised by intellectual depth and mind-stirring analysis and evocative arguments. Therefore, buying this book or keeping a copy will give you more than your money’s worth.

The prints are good and readable. It is also in soft and hard cover. However, It is my considered view, indeed my suggestion, that the editors should make available to the reading public an e-version of this book. Furthermore, it is my hope and wish that at the next lunch of the revised edition of this book, the issue of state police should come up for discussion.

I am honoured to recommend this book to you for your general reading and intellectual growth. For the lovers of Nigeria, this book is a must read. all other negative emotions arising from an irreversible end to his career.

In Lagos, Kemesese may have the privilege of a stable family, but the instabilities arising from a father who is too authoritarian creates chasm. Reverend Onari D’aziba and his wife, Maria D,aziba are clergy fellows who had their hopes dashed when their son chose football rather than the path of the chosen by his parents on a full time scale. The fact that he got a girl got pregnant when he could hardly feed himself meant he had crossed the momentary Rubicon of reconciliation with his parents.

When kettle calls pot black, it is expected that the former is free of charcoal but Reverend D’Aziba may have a bigger mole in need of cleansing. He covered every track of his son’s misdemeanour, while warning all present to keep their mouths shut on the and away from members of his congregation. The didactic impact of this juncture is that humans are fallible and true to whom they are as just human beings. Kemesese leaves home, his pregnant girlfriend was packaged away to the Gambia while the waters appeared calm, but only for that temporary moment that truth could be kept under wraps.

Michael Afenfia in this work explores the permanence of vicissitudes in human life and the challenges of managing these brick walls when it rears its head. The error of repeated chasms in human relationships could well be described as a function of our many indiscretions couple with the hand of a superior force that prompts the several questions which may not be answered about the divergent convolutions in which human beings are found.

Kemesese as a prodigal son later returns home to his parents, while Bubaraye is forced home with his family to Nigeria as well having been injured while playing in London. Time and chance bring both of them together and fortune smiles equally, affording its share of benevolence on the mentor Bubaraye and his mentee Sese, the latter having joined forces with the Lagoon Liners Football Club of Lagos.

50

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

PHOTOS OF THE WEEK

PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

ALL FOR POWER GENERATION

PHOTO: ISAAC AYODELE JIMOH

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

51

NEWS Doctors hail ‘spectacular’ step towards cancer cure

M

•Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal, Alex Badeh (left); Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Usman Jibrin (right) and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence Ismaila Aliyu (middle) arriving at the venue of the ceremonial sunset to mark the end of Nigerian Navy’s 59th anniversary in Lagos...on Monday.

PHOTO: PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU

Alleged $8.8m fraud: Legal firm criticises report on DPP’s request for Briton’s extradition

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FIRM of legal practitioners and arbitrators, Chris O. Okunowo & Co, has criticised a report with the headline: “$8.8m fraud: Lagos DPP to request Briton extradition”, published in the online version of The Nation of May 26 and the print edition of May 27.

The lawyers, in a statement, said the report made criminal imputations against their clients, Mr. Deepak Khilnani and Dr. Sushil Chandra.

The statement reads: “Our attention has just been drawn to a report with the above referenced headline published in the online version of The Nation Newspaper of the 26th May 2015 and the print edition of the 27th May 2015 making criminal imputations to our clients, Mr. Deepak Khilnani and Dr. Sushil Chandra.

“The report has among several other unverified claims alleged that the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) may soon be filing a request for the extradition of Mr. Deepak Khilnani to face criminal charges in Nigeria on account of a transaction in 2008 alleged to be in the tune of $8.8m and the basis of which a four count charge bordering on conspiracy, cheating, stealing and false representation have been pressed against our clients.

“While we may have ordinarily waived off the entire report as yet another mischievous contraption schemed up to distract and malign our clients as viciously pursued by some of their business partners in Nigeria, we consider it quite apt to upstage this virulent dimension in a long line of campaigns of calumny and to which the Lagos State DPP have lent itself as another pawn in the chess of anomie propped up to mislead the general public.

“For the avoidance of any doubt and regardless of any charge that may have been filed against our clients, we wish to state that our clients, Deepak Khilnani and Sushil Chandra, are no criminals but legitimate businessmen with substantial business interests and investments in Nigeria and which their uncompromising resolve to protect is the root of the onslaught against them by rapacious elements resorting to all sorts of intimidating measures.

“Deepak Khilnani does not own any shares in Green Fuels Limited but is on the board of the company as the representative of Industrial

Energy Africa Limited (IEAL), a company with its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland which holds 75% shares in Green Fuels Limited.

Ola Rosiji who holds the remaining 25% shares, and his partner, Anil Ahluwalia are purportedly laying claims to fund running into about N800 million invested in the company by Nigerian Distilleries Limited (NDL) as the basis of their shareholding in the company.

Sushil Chandra has never been involved with Green Fuel Limited in any capacity.

“Deepak Khilnani had insisted on behalf of IEAL on a formal confirmation that NDL’s fund was to be utilised in purchasing shares for both Anil Ahluwalia and Ola Rosiji in GFL. This was the beginning of his travail as Rosiji and Ahluwalia had severally persecuted him on many fronts, including using the police and courts.

“Anil Ahluwalia and Rosiji had initiated Suit Nos. FHC/IKJ/CS/ 269/13 and FHC/L/CS/1648/14 at the Federal High Court, Lagos bordering mainly on the subject matter of these instant criminal allegations. Ola Rosiji also lodged a complaint against Deepak Khilnani and Sushil Chandra with the X’ Squad, Zone 2, of the Nigeria Police, Onikan, Lagos in respect of which an Audit Report settled

by KPMG in flagrant disrespect of the ongoing suit on the matter was purportedly used as a basis for conjuring hideous allegations against our clients and a Charge No. F/ 21/14 was preferred against them at the Magistrate’s Court, Lagos.

“Deepak Khilnani was subsequently granted a leave to enforce his right against the Police in Suit No. LD/480MFHR/14 before the High Court of Lagos State and an order prohibiting the Police from restricting his movement was also granted by the same court. He has never jumped any administrative bail as maliciously reported in The Nation Newspaper, as he has always been in and out of Nigeria attending to his numerous business interests. He was last in Nigeria in March 2015.

“Our firm had sometime in September 2014 written a petition to the Inspector General of Police protesting against the high-handedness of the ‘X’ Squad, Zone 2, of the Nigeria Police in respect of the investigation of the complaint of Ola Rosiji, which had assumed somewhat of an expropriation against our clients.

“The ‘X’ Squad, Zone 2 was solely interested in and pursued an ignoble agenda of muscling Deepak Khilnani into making an undertaking on behalf of IEAL not only to relinquish the entirety of its shareholding in GFL to Rosiji but also to agree not ever to do any business in Nigeria. All these proceedings were being conducted under a manipulative genre of ADR. “The IGP mandated the DIG in charge of Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department to look into our complaint and by two separate letters Ref. Nos:CR:3000/X/ FHQ/ABJ/PSFU/VOL.8/34 and Ref. Nos:CR:3000/X/FHQ/ABJ/ PSFU/VOL.8/35 directed all the

parties involved to pursue the civil matter that was already in the Federal High Court, Lagos since the issues involved are strictly civil in nature.

“It is in view of the foregoing, that we are persuaded that the purported charge initiated by the DPP against our clients presumptuously based on an investigation of ‘X’ Squad, Zone 2, adopting a grossly incompetent and one-sided KPMG report and which investigation has been properly annulled by the Police highest authority as an act beyond its authority, is no more than another attempt to browbeat our clients into surrendering their lawful business interests in Nigeria.

“The report above referenced as sponsored does not only depict an act of blackmail by some faceless cowards who have resorted to try their case in the press rather than fully reposing confidence in the several judicial processes initiated by them, but it is also an indication that these desperate individuals would stop at nothing to actualize their inordinate objectives adopting all sorts of predatory methods.

“We are poised to challenge this act and indeed any other acts bordering on authoritarianism against our clients and shall do all within the precinct of law to ensure that interests of our clients as lawful investors contributing their quotas to our dear country’s economic development are not unduly eroded using the subterfuge of governmental protectionism as a decoy to hoodwink the members of the public.”

any terminally ill cancer sufferers will be “cured” of the disease by a groundbreaking class of drugs described last night as heralding a new era in treatment.

A British trial brought “spectacular” results, with tumours shrinking or disappearing completely in half of inoperable skin cancer patients.

The findings came as a series of studies showed that the drugs, which use the body’s defences to combat the disease, were effective against some of the most deadly tumours, including those of the lung, bowel, liver and head.

Experts gathered in Chicago at the world’s largest cancer conference said that the method was likely to become a once-in-a-generation advance, to rank with chemotherapy and surgery as one of the “pillars of oncology”.

Patients given months to live might survive to enjoy a normal lifespan thanks to the breakthrough. Some will have their tumours vanish completely while others will have their tumours shrink in size and be controlled.

The drugs are administered through a drip every few weeks and are generally less debilitating than chemotherapy. They do have side-effects, including inflammation, eczema, tiredness and liver problems.

Peter Johnson, the chief clinician at Cancer Research UK, said: “The evidence emerging from clinical trials suggests that we are at the beginning of a whole new era for cancer treatments.”

He said that about half of the people treated in the trials seemed to have responded well, adding: “We are hoping that in many cases these effects will be maintained in the long term, possibly leading to cures for some ... this looks like the next big step forward for cancer treatment.”

Cancers grow because they evade detection by the immune system. The latest class of drugs aims to strip away those disguises and alert the body’s natural defences to the danger.

The first such treatment, ipilimumab, was approved for routine use four years ago, and although some patients survive into the long term, only a fifth of those given the drug show any benefit.

At the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, British researchers said that tumours shrank dramatically in 58 per cent of patients when ipilimumab was combined with a new immunotherapy drug, compared with a 19 per cent success rate for those given the single drug.

James Larkin, of the Royal Marsden Hospital, London, who led the trial of 945 patients, said that he was “excited, pleased and optimistic because we have got a response rate of over 50 per cent, which has never been seen before”. The results raised hope that “half of advanced melanoma patients could be living disease-free”, he added.

APC member Nyauko disowns advertorial against Umana

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MEMBER of Akwa Ibom State All Progressives Congress (APC), Sylvanus Nyauko, has denied being a member of the Forum of Founding Elders of APC and signatory to an advertorial titled: “Umana Okon Umana’s desperation against Senator John James Akpanudoedehe will fail” published in The Nation of Monday.

Nyauko, an engineer, in a statement yesterday, said: “My attention has been drawn to an advertorial in The Nation Newspaper of Monday, June 1, 2015 at pages 32 and 33 published by a faceless and unknown group reporting to operate by the name Forum of Founding Elders of APC – Akwa Ibom State and captioned Umana Okon Umana’s desperation against Sena-

tor John James Akpanudoedehe will fail, in which they sought to discredit and drag the good name and hard earned reputation of His Excellency, Obong Umana Okon Umana (governorship candidate of the APC in Akwa Ibom State) in the mud.

“In the said advertorial, the miscreants maliciously and falsely listed my name as member of the said forum and signatory to the advertorial.

“I wish to categorically bring to the attention of His Excellency, Obong Umana Okon Umana, the All Progressives Congress, The Nation Newspaper and the public in general that I am not and had never been a member of the said faceless group, as such to my knowledge does not exist and I could therefore

not have agreed or collaborated with them or any other person to publish the said advertorial. None of the purported signatories to the publication appended their signatures for purpose of identification and/or authentication. I hereby condemn in very strong terms such acts of cowardice and grand standing.

“A look at the advertorial shows that my name and phone number was written as one of the signatories without my signature to authenticate same, as is normally done in advertorials of such nature.

“It is clear, therefore, that this is the work of my enemies, enemies of our great party, detractors and fifth columnists, who are bent on blackmail and whose intent is to destroy my good name, hard earned

reputation and also discredit my unalloyed loyalty to the party and His Excellency, Obong Umana Okon Umana.

“It is unfortunate and regrettable that a supposedly reputable tabloid like The Nation should stoop so low to publish such a damaging advertorial without insisting on obtaining signatures of the purported signatories for the purpose of verification and without carrying out any form of verification at all.

“I, therefore, call on all my supporters, party members and the public at large to discountenance the outright lies and fabrications contained in the advertorial and continue to give their total support to Obong Umana and the All Progressives Congress.”

52

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

NEWS •From left: Clerk of the Benue State House of Assembly, Dr Torese Agena; member, Kenneth Iyo; another member,Stephen Onmeje; Speaker Terhile Ayua; Majority Leader, Paul Biam; David Iorhemba and others after the dissolution of the Seventh Assembly in Makurdi... yesterday.

•From left: Assistant Secretary, General, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Kaduna Chapter, Mr Nasir Ado-yalo; Chairman, Mr Musa Ibrahim and General Secretary, Mr Mohammed Mohammed, at a news conference on ASUP strike in Kaduna...yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

•From left : Director, Environmental Assessment Department, Federal Ministry Environment, Mr John Alonge; Permanent Secretary, Mrs Nana Mede and former Director of Environmental Assessment, Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr Modupe Odubela, at the National Stakeholders Workshop on the Revised Environmental Impact Assessment in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

•Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu (right) consoling a patient at Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital during his inspection of the hospital in Birnin Kebbi...yesterday.

•Vice Chairman, Musawa Local Government, Alhaji Babangida Dangane (second right) handing over some motorcycles to the head of Local Government Administration, Alhaji Haruna Ummadau (right) to be distributed to workers in Katsina...yesterday.

•Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi addressing the Abakpa Nike Market traders in Enugu…yesterday.

With him are his Deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, Chairman of Enugu East Local Government, Prince Cornelius Nnaji (left), and Mr. Victor Atuonwu, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Ikeje Asogwa

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

53

BUSINESS EXTRA

NERC moves to cap billing for unmetered customers

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HE Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commis sion (NERC) plans to cap the consumption that unmetered customers in a particular class could be billed for in a particular month.

This is because the Electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) are relunctant to provide meters for their customers.

But the distribution companies (DISCOs) have kicked against the move, arguing that it amounts to legalising lawlessness on the part of customers.

• DISCOs: it’s legalising lawlessness From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

An official of the Commission, Mr. Shittu Shaibu, who spoke yesterday during a public consultation in Abuja, said the capping measure “ is aimed at incentivising the Discos to accelerate their metering to guarantee their revenue collection.”

He said the shortfall would encourage faster metering and improvement in revenue in the long run.

NERC, according to Shaibu,

is not satisfied with the present position of metering, where as large as 44.06 per cent of all registered customers is not effectively metered.

Responding to the presentation, the Executive Director, Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Mr. Abimbola Odubiyi, said the operators were apprehensive that the Credited Advance Programme for Metering Implementation (CAPMI ) may not meet their

revenue requirements.

To him, it is not the intention of the Discos to over bill customers lamenting that the firms are even losing revenue due to under-billing of the consumers.

Asking for time for the operators to correct the anomaly which he said was inherited by all the Discos, he noted that the Commission is asking the customers not to pay their bills.

He argued that “estimated billing is estimated billing,”

no matter how NERC presents it to the stakeholders.

Odubiyi described what NERC is trying to do as “legalising a wrongful act. You recently approved estimated billing . But you are now discriminating between those who have meters and those who have no meters.

“You are telling consumers to waste power without commensurate payment: telling them you don’t need meters.

You are increasing our commercial loses.”

Speaking, the NERC chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi urged the firms to provide meters to

their customers if the ceiling option is too difficult for them to cope with.

Some customers advocated that there should be no billing without meters, noting that metering market could be deregulated since the DISCOs are reluctant to provide meters.

But Amadi who agreed that the deregulation was a possibility explained that it would lead to adjusting the tariff to reflect the metering acquisition cost. He also explained that the no meter, no billing method would affect investment in the electricity market.

Furore over ex-President Jonathan’s BoA appointments

S

• From left: Executive Director, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman; Executive Director, Leap Africa, Mrs. Iyadunni Olubode; Managing Director, JNC International Limited, Mrs. Clare Omatseye; and Head, Brand Management and Communications, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Chima Nwaokoma, at the Sterling Bank and Leap Africa, press conference on CEOs Forum 2015 in Lagos… yesterday.

Reps put aside PIB over contentious clauses

W

ITH just a few days to the end of the 7th Assembly, members of the House of Representatives yesterday suspended further consideration of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) due to the sectional line the consideration of the report appeared to have taken.

Chairman, Committee of the Whole House, Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha halted further consideration of the report when he discovered that the argument over some contentious clauses has taken on regional dimension.

He mandated the ad hoc Committee to do further work on the contentious clauses to enable the House make informed decision when consecration resumes.

Before then, members from the South and North were at variance over what percentage of national fund should go to certain projects in their areas.

• Refuse to clear Alison- Madueke over shady oil deals From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

He said: “What we have seen on the floor is a political and emotional solution being put forward by members but what we need is a technical solution.

“What we must realise is that the import of the PIB is very critical to every Nigerians because the National Assembly has been accused at various times for not passing the Bill.

“So, we have to take our time to pass it and pass a bill that can stand the test of time. The committee should go back and involve technical people so that whatever we support at the end of the day will be in favour of Nigeria.

“You have to come up with figures that can be defended by the House. If we go into vot-

ing now, it will only be political voting but we have to be technically guided to be able to do the best for Nigeria.”

Also yesterday, members kicked against the consideration of a report clearing the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke of any wrong doing in an alleged shady sale of seven oil blocs.

The report which was put together by an ad hoc committee headed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum (Upstream), Muraino Ajibola cleared AlisonMadueke of any misdeed in the transaction.

Specifically, the ad hoc committee was to investigate the alleged shady deal involving the Mrs. Alison-Madueke, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation ( NNPC), the Ni-

gerian Petroleum Development Company ( SPDC), Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept Ltd, Septa Energy Ltd, and any other entity with respect to the farmout or allocation of a oil mining leases ( OMLs) 4, 26, 30, 34, 38, 41 and 42.

The contentious report of the ad hoc committee was laid before the House on the 13th of February last year and brought up for consideration yesterday.

Though Muraino, the chairman of the committee was absent, the Acting Speaker, Ihedioha brought the report forward for consideration by members.

But members who were angry having read through the recommendations of the report refused to allow it be considered.

Of the three recommendations, the one that irked members most was “that a clear bill of health be given to all parties involved in the transaction as the entire transaction conformed to all applicable laws.

Avoid hasty removal of subsidy, Buhari urged

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RESIDENT Muhammad Buhari should not ground the economy by immediately removing oil subsidy, oil workers have warned.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) yesterday warned that any attempt by the Federal Government, to abruptly remove subsidy on petroleum products will bring more hardship on Nigerians.

By Akinola Ajibade

In a statement signed by its spokesman, Emmanuel Ojugbana, the body warned that the advice in some quarters that the government should stop paying subsidies to oil marketers was wrong and ill-timed.

It said removing subsidy, while the country depends on importation of refined products will make prices of fuel out of the reach of masses

and further cause inflation.

It said if local refining is not increased to meet local demand for petroleum products, especially petrol, removing subsidy would worsen the conditions of Nigerians.

According to the union, the government should ensure that the deregulation policy is based on local production, and not importation.

“Importation of refined petroleum products is also

putting the naira under undue pressure and creating social problems for the economy. This is unacceptable to PENGASSAN. “Abrupt removal of fuel subsidy will create chaos that may ground the economy. PENGASSAN calls for well-coordinated measures with timeline to achieve self-sufficiency in local refining as a means of proffering acceptable steps to end fuel subsidy.

OME of the last-minute appointments made by former President Goodluck Jonathan through former Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina yesterday generated furore at the headquarters of the Bank of Industry (BoA), Kaduna among directors of the bank.

According to reports, trouble started when the three directors appointed by Adesina suddenly reported for duty at the Kaduna office of the bank yesterday. Their appearance at a time the management of the bank was having a crucial meeting led to the abrupt end of the meeting.

A press statement endorsed by an Executive Director, Wholesales Finance, BoA, Alhaji Ahmadu Waziri, explained that the three directors were people of questionable character and they were unfit for the job.

The statement identified Dr Danbala Danju, Mr Babatunde Igun and Mr. Mohammed Adamu Sambo as the emergency appointees of Jonathan.

“The next development in the nominations saga was yesterday (Monday, June 1, 2015) morning, when we were holding an informal Monday Morning Review meeting with the Acting MD/CEO and the Company Secretary. Two gentlemen

By Sina Fadare

suddenly intruded the office where we were meeting, and proceeded to present two copies of letters of appointment as EDs, signed by the Head of Human Resource Management at the Ministry, to the Acting MD/CEO,” the statement read.

Waziri observed that the letter having been signed by a Director instead of the Minister or the Permanent Secretary was unusual. In addition, even though the Permanent Secretary only learnt about the approval on May 28, 2015, after which he gave instructions to the Head Human Resource as to what to do, the letters of appointment were dated May 27, 2015.

“These gentlemen sent as a new management team are nothing but remnants of the last dispensation being catapulted to this side of change to do nothing but sabotage the expected efforts of the new government in the agriculture sector,” the statement added.

Waziri pointed out that the sudden appointment was a way to truncate the entire progressive model which the bank has been operating and getting a desire result in the recent past before the ouster of the last administration.

Hotels.ng secures $1.2m facility

N

IGERIA’s online hotel booking agency, Hotels.ng has secured $1.2million (about N240 million) investments from international investors.

The investment came from international investors including seed-stage technology fund, EchoVC Pan-African Fund and Omidyar Network, the investment vehicle of eBay founder, Pierre Omidyar.

In a sector plagued by dearth of indigenous investors, Hotels.ng has become the only e-commerce company in Nigeria with the most indigenous investment of up to 90 percent, having also received seed investment of $225, 000 (about N36 million) in 2013 from Lagos-based venture capital firm, Spark.ng.

Started in 2013 on the heels of e-commerce revolution in Nigeria, Hotels.ng has spearheaded online hotel booking in the country with over 7,000 hotels listed from across the country.

The company said with the closure on this investment

By Tonia ‘Diyan

round, the company is now strategically positioned to invest further in its technology capacity and further expansion across Africa.

Speaking on the investment, Founder/ CEO of Hotels.ng, Mark Essien said: “We’re forging ahead into relatively uncharted territory e-commerce in Africa is a massive market to conquer, but there are no hard and fast prototypes from which to follow. We cannot simply replicate western models here. We have to build our own blueprints from scratch, which takes significant investment, both in terms of time and money.

This additional capital will allow us to realise the next stage in our ambitious growth plans, which will see us consolidate our position as Nigeria’s market leader in online hotel bookings, with a view to expanding our service into other African markets.”

54

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 02-06-15

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 02-06-15

SEC orders registrars to return unclaimed dividends to companies

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HE Securities and Ex change Commission (SEC) has directed all registrars of public limited liability companies to return all unclaimed dividends, which have been in their custody for 15 months and above to the companies that paid the dividends.

In a circular dated June 1, a copy of which was obtained yesterday by The Nation, SEC gave the registrars up till June 30, 2015 to comply and file evidence of remittance of the unclaimed dividends to the companies with the Commission. “Please note that failure to comply with this directive shall attract appropriate sanctions without further recourse,� SEC stated.

The Nation had reported that total value of unclaimed dividends had risen by about 50 per cent in the past two years and currently stand at N90 billion.

Unclaimed dividend has grown steadily in recent years. A 2012 third quarter report by SEC had shown that unclaimed dividends to-

By Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

taled N50.7 billion by the end of the quarter. Unclaimed dividends had increased sharply from about N27.8 billion in 2008 to N41.3 billion in 2009, only to hit N41.7 billion in 2010. In 2011 it hit N50.2 but slightly increased further to N50.7 billion as at September 2012. By the end of 2012, SEC put unclaimed dividend at N60 billion.

A highly placed regulatory source had indicated that the latest review of unclaimed dividends, dated September 2014, showed that unclaimed dividends remained a challenge in the capital market noting that SEC is leading efforts to stem the growth of unclaimed dividends.

The source said another review of the unclaimed dividends might show a significant reduction as registrars have returned some unclaimed dividends to the paying companies in line with the extant rules and regulations.

The latest directive came on

the heels of recent changes in unclaimed dividend management rules, with the introduction of new rules and regulations, which will see unclaimed dividends returning to paying companies rather than staying in the custody of registrars.

The new rules will allow companies to retrieve unclaimed dividends and invest such money for their benefit.

It is a paradigm shift from the current position where companies are not allowed access to unclaimed dividends until after 12 years.

A draft document on new rules and regulations on unclaimed dividends by the SEC indicated that unclaimed dividends, which hitherto used to be in the custody of registrars until after they become statute-barred after 12 years, will now revert back to the paying company after nearly a year.

However, the company is under obligation to make the unclaimed dividend available to the registrars for payment whenever there is request by any shareholder.

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 02-06-15

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

55

MONEYLINK Adesina to face oil slump, slow growth for AfDB countries

T

HE newly elected president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, is taking over an institution entering a much tougher economic environment than the one his predecessor, Donald Kaberuka, inherited when he won the job a decade ago, Bloomberg reports.

Adesina, Nigeria’s outgoing Agriculture Minister was elected on May 28 during the bank’s annual meeting in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, faces a slowdown in some of Africa’s biggest economies after a plunge in oil prices and rising political risk. He said the bank needs to focus on promoting investment by businesses.

A strategist at Barclays Plc’s Africa unit, told Bloomberg that: “There’s uncertainty about the commodity price outlook and there are security challenges in some more prominent markets like Kenya and Nigeria that weren’t there 10 years ago. There are a lot more medium-term challenges they’ll have to overcome,” Ridle Markus, While sub-Saharan Africa has grown

V

Stories by Collins Nweze

faster than any region in the world except developing Asia in the past 10 years, an almost 40 per cent slump in the price of oil in the second half of last year and declining metal prices are clouding the outlook for economies such as Nigeria, Angola and Zambia.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF)last month lowered its economic growth forecast for sub-Saharan Africa by 1.25 percentage points to 4.5 per cent.

In West Africa, where the worst outbreak of Ebola has crippled Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, a 53 per cent plunge in iron ore prices since the beginning of last year has hampered growth.

Economic growth on the continent can return to levels recorded before the global financial crisis in 2008-2009 if commodity prices stabilise, the AfDB said in its African Economic Outlook report. The bank is estimating 4.5 per cent expansion in Africa

•Adesina

this year and five per cent in 2016.

Candidates for the AfDB presidency say the bank must increase efforts to keep wealth on the continent and share it more equally among citizens if it wants to stay relevant and meet its aim of reducing poverty.

“The biggest challenge facing Africa today is to transform the tremendous wealth of Africa for the benefit of Africans,” Jaloul Ayed, one of the eight contenders for the position and a former finance minister in Tunisia, said in a debate in Washington last month.

Ecobank Group CEO wins ‘African Banker of the Year’ award

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COBANK Group CEO Albert Essien last night won the African Banker of the Year award at the ninth edition of the African Banker Awards in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The ceremony took place at Abidjan’s Sofitel Hotel Ivoire in the margins of the 2015 African Development Bank Annual Meetings.

The award recognises the contribution of individuals in management positions, and best practices in African banking. It is sponsored

by London-based IC publications under the patronage of the African Development Bank.

Essien was one of five contend-

ers for the African Banker of the Year award. Others chief executives competing with the pan-African bank’s CEO were Segun Agbaje of Nigeria’s GT Bank, Paulo Alexandre Duarte de Sousa of Banco Comercial e de Investimentos of Mozambique, Charles Kimei of Tanzania’s Cooperative Rural Development Bank Bank plc and Tariq Sijilmassi of Morocco’s Groupe Credit Agricole.

Accepting the award, Essien said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It comes as a surprise to me because although I have worked for Ecobank for the last 25 years, I have only been Group CEO for just

over a year.

I therefore accept this award on behalf of the staff of Ecobank, for they are the ones to whom I attribute the real success of our institution in its service to the people of our continent. I also want to thank our host, IC publications, the organisers of these awards, and the esteemed panel of judges for this distinction.”

The award is the second received within the group this month. On the 22nd of May Ecobank was named African Retail Bank of the Year at the Global Retail Banking Awards ceremony in London.

ISA has unveiled a programme that connects financial institutions and technology companies to simplify and accelerate the roll-out of new payment and commerce services.

In a statement, the firm said the Visa new Digital Enablement Program (VDEP) builds on the company’s secure token technology and adds a turn-key, toll-free commercial framework accessible to more than 14,500 Visa financial institution clients and leading technology partners around the world.

It said Google, with its Android Pay payment solution, is Visa’s first international program partner.

Designed to simplify how partners access Visa’s secure token technology, the VDEP is fast and easy for integration helping financial institutions and technology companies to achieve scale quickly by connecting to one another through VDEP, with no need for a complex set of contractual agreements and technology integrations.

Visa unveils mobile payments’ standard With the product, there is no-cost commercial framework hence, financial institutions, merchants and technology companies can drive growth through a simple, scalable commercial construct with no passthrough fees between technology partners and financial institutions.

“Robust security and consumer data protection makes VDEP to bring together a powerful combination of secure token technology, risk and fraud management services and customer data protections. With International scale and reach available to Visa’s 14,500 global financial institution clients, VDEP offers banks and technology partners Visa’s first platform for delivering secure mobile and digital payment services on a truly international scale,” Jim McCarthy, executive vice president of innovation and strategic partnerships at Visa said.

WorldRemit celebrates migrant heroes

M

IGRANT workers take centre stage in a new ad campaign by online money transfer service WorldRemit. In a statement, the firm explained that the campaign, “Because of Them” highlights the personal and economic contribution of people who have moved abroad but continue to support family overseas. The short films tell the story of Alma, David and Miguel - a doctor, teacher and dockhand.

Their long, hard work days allow them to send money back to help their relatives.

“We wanted to celebrate the people who use WorldRemit - dedicated, family-loving migrants who don’t often get the recognition they deserve,” Luciana Telles, WorldRemit’s VP of Marketing said.

“So much is written in the media about migrants and their role in the economy and it’s not always positive. Yet every day we see people who are making a valuable contribution to both their adopted countries and their homelands.”

Global remittance payments totaling $583 billion in 2014; data from the World Bank showed. Also, $440 billion was sent to people in developing countries alone. At the same time, migrant workers made a positive economic contribution to their adopted nations.

WorldRemit’s “Because of Them” campaign is being supported by a special website worldremitstories.com where people can view real-life migrant experiences.

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

126.04 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.63 1.39 1,744.73 1,104.77 112.34 121.16 1.67 1.1978 1.3117 0.7319 1.1349

125.82 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.62 1.33 1,744.73 1,104.00 111.75 120.30 1.62 1.1912 0.7203 0.7203 1.1349

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

VONO COSTAIN DANGFLOUR LIVESTOCK CUTIX WEMABANK TRANSEXPR ETI ABCTRANS STERLNBANK

1.77 0.98 4.00 2.28 1.73 0.94 1.23 21.00 0.51 2.03

1.94 1.07 4.20 2.39 1.81 0.98 1.28 21.82 0.56 2.10

0.17 0.09 0.20 0.11 0.08 0.04 0.05 0.82 0.02 0.07

HONYFLOUR

3.89

4.00

0.11

LOSERS AS AT 02-06-15

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

INTENEGINS ACADEMY NPEMCRTBK IKEJAHOTEL NAHCO TRANSCORP OANDO FO UNITYBNK PRESCO NASCON

0.53 1.00 1.20 3.90 6.38 2.98 18.89 168.00 2.77 34.00 7.93

C/PRICE 0.50 0.95 1.14 3.71 6.11 2.86 18.20 163.00 2.70 33.35 7.79

Inflation:April

8.5%

Monetary Policy Rate

13.0%

Foreign Reserves

$28.2b

Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

$67.91

CHANGE 0.03 -0.05 -0.06 -0.19 -0.27 -0.12 -0.09 -5.00 -0.07 -0.65 -0.14

FOREX RATES (NairaVs Dollar) May 28, 2015 Interbank ($/N)

199.00

$1

Black Market ($/N)

215.00

$1

London Inter-bank Offered Rates (LIBOR)

Money Supply (M2)

GAINERS AS AT 02-06-15

SYMBOL

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

N16.42 trillion.

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

N17.2 trillion

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

16.5%

Tenor 1 Month 2 Months 3 Months 6 Months 12 Months

May 27

May 28

Rate)%

Rate (%)

0.1735 0.2147 0.2615 0.3841 0.6709

0.1715 0.2108 0.2626 0.3857 0.6744

Nigerian Stock Market Indices

Tenor

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

Overnight (O/N)

14.683

76.583

1M

15.033

15.977

3M

15.809

17.177

6M

16.493

17.908

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

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

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

Statistics All Share Index Mkt Cap (NGN’bn) Deals Volume (mn) Value (NGN’mn)

27 May 34,649.3 11.8 3,385 564,28 6,087.80

5 May 29,383.93 9,804.36 3,714 377,75 6,568.66

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

Feb. 13, 2015

Rates

T-bills - 91

12.44

T-bills - 182

13.85

T-bills - 364

13.92

Bond - 3yrs

15.92

Bond - 5yrs

17.22

Bond - 7yrs

16.59

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

56

NEWS

NDLEA serves Kashamu notice of extradition

Oshiomhole inaugurates panel to probe council chief

E

•Senator-elect’s lawyer faults agency

T

HE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) yesterday said it has served embattled Senator-elect for Ogun East Prince Buruji Kashamu notice of extradition suit.

The NDLEA, which spoke in a statement by its Head of Public Affairs, Ofoyeju Mitchell, said the application to that effect has been submitted to the Chief Judge of Federal High Court, Abuja in the suit.

According to Mitchell, the office of the Attorney General of the Federation is seeking the extradition of Kashamu to answer alleged drug trafficking charges in the United States (U.S.).

The notice of the suit for extradition, NDLEA said, was served on Kashamu by the NDLEA on Monday.

Mitchell noted that the agency’s action tallies with the Extradition Act CAP, E25 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 (as modified by Extradition Act Modification Order, 2014).

The agency also claimed that the House of Representatives has lauded it for the step it took in the extradition case involving Kashamu.

It claimed that the House, in a letter of commendation

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

by the Chairman, Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes, Jagaba Adams Jagaba, said the NDLEA’s action would build the confidence of the international community in Nigeria.

But Mr. Ajibola Oluyede of TRLP Law, counsel to Kashamu, has faulted the claim that the NDLEA had served the senator-elect notice of extradition suit.

According to Oluyede, the claim was not “only laughable but false”.

“He has not been served.

Rather, a copy of the process was dropped in our office in Lagos yesterday,” the lawyer said.

The lawyer, in a statement yesterday, said: “Our attention has been drawn to a press release by the NDLEA purporting to have served extradition proceedings on Kashamu.

“We wish to state that the NDLEA has no role to play in extradition proceedings until a warrant of arrest has been issued by the court. It is the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice that initiates extradition proceedings after receiving a request by an order directed to

the court and asking the court to take over the matter.

“It is the court that will decide whether a warrant of arrest is necessary. It is the court that will consider all the evidence provided by the United States to see whether it satisfies the onus of proof and that it establishes that the person sought is the person that actually participated in the offence alleged.

“In this case, the NDLEA is very jumpy, nervous and unsettled because it has exposed its unprofessionalism when before any extradition proceedings had been commenced at all, it invaded the home of Prince Kashamu, broke down his gates, doors and windows to gain access, harassed his infant children and pregnant wife and humiliated him in the presence of his family.

“Clearly, the plan was not extradition, but abduction and that plan failed only because it quickly came to the attention of the public.

“The belated filing on Thursday, May 28, 2015 of an application to the Federal High Court by the immediate past Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke Bello, is an afterthought. And the lack of qual-

•Kashamu

ity in the processes is indicative that it is a rushed job quickly done to save his face.

“The pieces of evidence which the U.S. authorities have provided him are exactly the same evidence that the British courts found to contain falsehood and held to be incredible and valueless.

“I wonder why the immediate past AGF would think that the Nigerian courts can be deceived.”

The lawyer said Kashamu “has not been served. Rather, a copy of the process was dropped in our office in Lagos yesterday. So, we shall deal with it in accordance with the law”.

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole yesterday inaugurated an administrative panel of enquiry into the suspension of Etsako West Local Government Chairman, Alasa Mohammed.

The governor urged the panel to examine the immediate and remote causes of the protest which occurred recently on the premises of the local government.

Nosagie Osifo is the Chairman of the panel and Itohan Okungbowa is its Secretary.

Other members are: Osazee Ojo, Francis Uwaifo and Marcus Onobun.

Oshiomhole said: “On May 22, there were reports in the print and electronic media as well as security reports about protests around Auchi. But thanks to the intervention of the police and Operation Thunderstorm; it was brought under control.

“There were all sorts of allegation behind the protest, though some of those involved in it include the leadership of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Auchi Polytechnic and some other persons. The issue as to who is responsible, who organised the protest, financed it, instigated it, is the matter for your investigation.

“We have acted on the basis of these allegations but they remain allegations until they are proven. Though yours is not a judicial enquiry, yours is an administrative panel which will help us to establish the facts, not necessarily the law about what hap-

From Ugochukwu UgojiEke, Umuahia

pened. Was there a protest? Who was involved? Who was behind the protest? If anyone was behind it, who financed it, if it was financed? These and whatever information you think is necessary.

“By way of the terms of reference, therefore, your panel is expected to examine the immediate and remote causes, the actors and the implications of the protest; to look into the alleged involvement of members of the students’ union of Auchi Polytechnic in the protest, with a view to identifying their possible sponsor and/or those who instigated them and any other matter which could be relevant to helping us to understand what led to the protest and how to avoid a future occurrence.”

Oshiomhole added: “We encourage you to make appropriate recommendations in good faith to the extent that such recommendations, in your view, will help the government to avoid a repetition in future.

“Naturally, we will expect some pressure from certain quarters, those who might seek to influence your findings. But I have had cause to say in different fora that the truth does not require a supporters’ club. It has its leg, hands and head and can stand on its own. So, just help us to establish the truth, and with the benefit of your recommendations, we can find a lasting solution to similar incidents.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

57

NEWS Wike freezes Rivers bank accounts

Obiano clears medical bills of Onitsha tanker fire victims

•Governor becomes sole signatory

B

ANKERS have got a “strange” directive from Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike.

He has made himself the sole signatory to all the accounts. Besides, all bank accounts have been frozen.

But bankers are grumbling that due process was not followed in the directives, which were conveyed in two letters addressed to all banks.

In the first letter to the banks, titled: “Change of signatory to the Rivers State government account” reads: “Consequent upon my assumption of office as Governor of Rivers State, I wish to formally inform you that the authorised signatory to the Rivers State Government’s accounts is that of the present governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON. Any financial instrument(s) without the governor’s consent should not be honoured. The governor’s specimen signature is signed below. Thank you for noting.”

The second letter, titled: “Freezing of all Rivers State Government accounts”, reads: “I write to instruct all banks to immediately stop every payment from the Rivers State Govenmnet accounts under their control until further notice. All cheques or instruments from any Ministry, Government agency or parastatal issued for payment for any reason should not be honoured as per this directive. Your cooperation in this respect is solicited, pleased.”

Both letters, written on the letter head of office of the governor, dated June 1, 2015, are signed by Wike.

This directive has however irked top executives in the banking system, who are worried about the seeming impunity Wike is perpetuating in less than one week in office. A regional manager of a leading bank, who pleaded for anonymity, told The Nation that it is an aberration for a governor to introduce himself to a bank or financial institution, when the state has a chief financial officer.

“It is sad and an aberration, what the governor has just done. He should have allowed the accountant-general of the state to introduce him to the banks, as is the acceptable standard; not him writing a letter to tell the banks of the development.

Besides, there was no change of signatory form signed by the previous signatories to the accounts attached to the letter. This is the duty of the accountant-general,” the bank chief said.

Another banker argued that Wike making himself the sole signatory to all the state’s ministries, parastatals and agencies, means that government business would grind to a halt, especially when there is an urgent need to execute a project and the governor was not around.

The banker, with over 25

By Muyiwa Lucas

years banking experience, and who’s bank handles several huge government accounts, said it is unheard of for a governor to even sign cheques when there is an accountant-general in the state.

Also yesterday, Wike accused some permanent secretaries in the state of aiding last minute ‘cash withdrawals’ by the last administration.

The governor spoke at a meeting with the permanent secretaries at the Government House, Port Harcourt.

Wike ordered permanent secretaries to produce the bank statements of their ministries for the last 18 months.

He advised the permanent secretaries to shun partisan politics as career civil servants, saying the roles some of them played in the closing days of the immediate past administration were politically motivated.

Wike added that some permanent secretaries helped the immediate past administration to illegally withdraw funds from the State Government coffers.

He said: “I want full details and print out of every ministry’s account in the last 18 months. I will not accept any handover note without an accompanying account details.

“The government was coming to a close and some of you were busy signing cheques on 26, 27 and 28 of May. On 28 of May, the Transition Committee called most of you and you refused to cooperate because they told you I will not be swornin.”

The governor noted that he would not witch hunt any civil servant irrespective of his/her role in the electioneering period . He, however, said that no civil servant would be allowed to sabotage the efforts of his administration.

He urged the permanent secretaries to work with his administration to revive the state and put back smile on the faces of the people.

“Those of you who want to work with us to develop Rivers State will get the necessary support. You are career civil servants and not politicians. As civil servants, don’t play the role of politicians,” he said.

The Rivers State governor pointed out that “backdated employments and indiscriminate issuance of certificates of occupancy by the immediate past administration” would be re-visited.

He directed the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands and Survey to produce the relevant land documents for examination. The permanent secretaries were led to the meeting by the Head of Service, Samuel LongJohn.

Others who attended the meeting were the former Minister of Sports, Dr Tammy Danagogo, Former Deputy governor, Tele Ikuru and Secretary of the Transition Committee, Frank Owhor.

A

NAMBRA State Governor Willie Obiano has said medical expenses of victims of the Onitsha tanker fire disaster will be settled by the state government.

The Medical Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer of Toronto hospital, Dr. Emeka Eze, spoke to The Nation yesterday when he said of the eight victims, one had been discharged while another, whose condition has improved, would be discharged today.

The MD said 26 victims were brought to the medical centre, adding that 20 were unidentified, while six were identified by their relations through their ornaments.

He however said those severely burnt had been restricted from receiving visitors to avoid infection.

“We have stopped releasing corpses to relations unless

•PTD to fight reckless night travels

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ETROLEUM Tanker Drivers (PTD), a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has said it will fight reckless and night travel and insist that tankers conveying inflammable materials are in good condition before plying the road.

National Chairman of PTD, Comrade Salimon Akanni Oladiti was reacting to the Onitsha and Lagos tanker accidents, which claimed more than 70 lives and property.

Oladiti lamented the accidents and advised law enforcement agents to investigate the cause of From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

on the orders of the ministry of health and. We cannot discharge any patient unless the ministry of health is informed.

“The reason is because government has taken responsibility of the bills and putting up necessary funding.

“Governor Willie Obiano should be applauded for help-

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

the accidents and ascertain the products source.

He expressed the union’s resolve to fight night and reckless driving and ensure that tankers are fit to ply the highways, even as he reiterated that the rule banning night driving, though usually violated, was still in force.

Comrade Oladiti enjoined stakeholders in the transport and haulage sub-sector, law enforcement agencies, especially FRSC and the Police to join hands in the renewed fight to make the roads safer.

ing the citizens stay alive; the living victims are in a stable condition,” Eze said.

A victm’s sister Nkiruka Ezeh from Enugu State said her sister Nkechi, who left their Awada residence to Asaba in Delta State to visit their brother, Ogbonna Igwe, a spare parts dealer was still mising.

Amechi Alor, a at Mgbuka spare parts market n Onitsha

said one of his relations, Chukwudi Nwanga was in the fire.

Men of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), led by the Head of Operations in Onitsha, Obinani Ezekannagha were seen yesterday evacuating burnt vehicles, 12 in all, from the scene.

Ezekannagha said they acted on government’s orders.

•The hospital...yesterday.

•Nkiruka Eze

•Amechi Alor

•Dr. Emeka Eze

Boko Haram releases video without Shekau

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OKO Haram released a new video yesterday rejecting claims they have been routed in a four-nation offensive.

The 10-minute video published online and released on YouTube was the first video from the Islamist militants since February. It did not show its leader Abubakar Shekau.

Shekau, who has been accused of war crimes, has appeared in most of the insurgents’ messages over the past three years and his absence will raise immediate questions concerning his whereabouts.

President Muhammadu Buhari makes his first foreign trip to Chad and Niger from today to press key partners in the battle against the rebels, whose insurgency

has claimed at least 15,000 lives since 2009.

The video bore the logo “Islamic State in West Africa” and comes after Shekau in March pledged allegiance in an audio message to the IS group that has overrun large parts of Syria and Iraq.

An unidentified man pictured in front of two-pick up trucks speaks with his face obscured by a headscarf and with an AK-47 rifle resting on his chest.

“Most of our territory is still under our control,” he said, dismissing claims of the coalition’s sweeping victories.

“The armies claim through the media that they captured our towns and that they assaulted Sambisa (forest) and defeated us,” he said, referring to the

‘Most of our territory is still under our control,” he said, dismissing claims of the coalition’s sweeping victories’ bushland area Borno that has been an Islamist stronghold.

“I swear by Allah that I am talking right now from Sambisa,” he added, speaking in the Hausa language that is dominant in northern Nigeria with Arabic and English subtitles shown below.

“Here in Sambisa you can travel more than four to five hours under the black flag

of Islam by car or by motorbike...

“We are uncountable in Sambisa,” he added, dismissing reports of the insurgents’ defeat as “false propaganda”.

There was no immediate response from the military.

Shekau was not referenced at any point — a major departure from past Boko Haram statements.

Analysts have typically viewed Boko Haram as a factionalised group, with a relatively weak central command structure and it is possible Shekau has been marginalised if not killed.

But solid information concerning power struggles within Boko Haram has been scant to non-existent, so the current make-up of the group is largely unknown.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

NEWS KWASU to graduate 732 •Soyinka delivers lecture From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

KWARA State University (KWASU) will on Saturday graduate 732 students at its third convocation.

Six graduating students from the Faculties of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) and Pure and Applied Sciences will get first class degrees.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof AbdulRasheed Na’Allah, who addressed reporters at Malete in Moro Local Government, said Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, would deliver a lecture.

He said 174 students would get second class upper, 549, second class lower and three third class degrees.

According to him, Soyinka would speak on a topic relevant to the present situation in the country.

Na’Allah urged the President Muhammadu Buhari government to revitalise public education.

Said he: “Most of us are products of public education.

We were ready to defend our schools as the best. We had the best teachers, best equipment and we had passion to make a difference in the world. Today, unfortunately, most Nigerians, who have something good for the young people, prefer private schools. Today, sadly, people have no more confidence in public schools.

“The Buhari administration should prioritise the revitalisation of public education. If it is revitalised and parents have confidence in public education, a lot of changes will occur in this nation. The Federal Government should declare a state of emergency in public education. It should mobilise state and local governments to revitalise public education.”

Rep-elect slams Wada •Over council transition committee From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

HOUSE of Representatives member-elect, Kabiru Ajana, yesterday slammed Kogi State Governor Idris Wada for setting up a three-member transition committee to oversee activities in the 21 local governments, pending the election of substantive chairmen and councillors.

Ajana, who is to represent Okehi/Adavi Federal Constituency in Kogi State, described the action as unconstitutional and an abuse of due process.

He said his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), would challenge the decision in court.

A source said the three transition liaison officers would be sworn-in today.

The source said the delay in their inauguration might not be unconnected with the fact that Wada had travelled out of the country.

Ajana, who spoke to our correspondent in an interview in Abuja, said: “I don’t see any provision in the constitution that has given him a right to form a transition committee.

Mob lynch policeman in Gombe

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MOB in the Gombe metropolis yesterday lynched a policeman.

Police spokesman Fwaje Atajiri confirmed the incident, warning people not take the law into their hands.

He described the incident as regrettable and condemned the action of the deceased policeman, who was alleged to have shot dead a resident, resulting in his being lynched.

From Vincent Ohonbamu, Gombe

Atajiri said: “Even after killing the victim, which was wrong, the police officer showed restraint when the mob chased him, because of the 30 rounds of ammunition given him, 29 were found intact.”

Eyewitness account has it that a police corporal, 38year-old Adamu Abba, was hit on his motorbike by a commercial tricycle oper-

ator (Keke NAPEP) at Bello Sabon Kudi junction on his way to work.

The source said when the police officer was trying to ensure that the person, who hit him and damaged his motorcycle, was brought to justice, other tricycle and motorcycle operators attempted to rescue him.

He said the enraged mobile police corporal, in self defence, shot dead 37-yearold Malla Gana, who led

the commercial motorcyclists and tricycle operators during the argument.

It was learnt that the police officer later ran into the office of the secretary of the Gombe Emirate Council for safety and called his superior officers to explain to them what happened.

The source said before the police arrived, the mob forced their way into the secretary’s office and lynched the mobile policeman.

• From left: Senator Ahmad Lawan, Nasarawa State Governor Umar Tanko Almakura and ex-Plateau State Deputy Governor Mrs. Pauline Tallen, during a condolence visit to Almakura’s in-laws in Jos...Monday

Maritime security: Navy partners UAE firm in local ship building T O enhance the Nigerian Navy’s capability in ship building, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with a United Arab Emirates (UAE) based company, Prinvest for the upgrade of Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin spoke at the ceremonial sunset to mark the end of the 59th anniversary of the Navy.

He stated that the decision was borne out of the desire to equip the Navy for local building of ships, just as he noted that the firm which will be domiciled at the Naval Dockyard, will take on the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s flagship, NNS ARADU, six strides boats, and build some interceptor boats, to ensure the emplacement of adequate security within the nation’s waters.

According to Vice Admiral Jibrin, the nation’s dependency on the maritime resources of the sea makes the navy’s role paramount in achieving its national objective.

Highlighting his achievements as CNS, Jibrin said the navy under his watch has left no stoned unturned in combating crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism, which are some of the most serious threats to the nation’s eco-

By Precious Igbonwelundu

nomic survival.

He also noted that professional and on-the-job training of personnel have been prioritised under his watch, adding that Naval personnel have been sent on foreign and local courses to equip them for the challenges of the 21st century.

He said: “Efforts are ongoing to continually increase the operational effectiveness of the fighting force of the NN. As part of these efforts, another historic milestone was achieved with the commissioning of four ships-NNS CENTENARY, NNS OKPABANA, NNS SAGBAMA and NNS PROSPERITY on February 19.

“The NN also received five interceptor boats (K-13) early this year from the Netherlands. While foreign acquisition of ships has been ongoing, the NN is unrelenting with local constructions of vessels.

“The construction of the second Seward Defence Boat has reached advanced stage at the Naval Dockyard. The NN shipyard in Port Harcourt is presently constructing an ocean going tug boat.

“I am equally proud to state that a critical decision has been taken to reposition the Naval Dockyard Limited. To this end, the NN has signed an agreement with a

United Arab Emirates (UAE) based company, Prinvest, to upgrade the Dockyard with a view to enhancing it’s capability in the local construction of ships.

“Also, the NN has organised several exercises which comprised boarding, searching and arrest of vessels engaged in illegality at sea. Patrols were also increased in all the Operations Command’s leading to the interception, interrogation and arrest of several vessels involved in crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Ismaila Aliyu, said the successes the navy has recorded in national and international engagements attested to its proficiency.

According to him, occasions such as the ceremonial sunset called for sober reflection on the state of the nation, especially the present security challenges confronting the people.

“The prevailing security situation is a challenge to all Nigerians irrespective of our ethnic, cultural, religious, social and political inclinations.

“I therefore want to take this opportunity to call on all Nigerians at home and abroad to unite with the Federal Government and well-meaning allies in seeking an end to Boko Haram

insurgency.

“No nation can achieve meaningful development in an atmosphere devoid of unity, peace and security...It is particularly worthy to note that the Nigerian Navy, despite the onerous task of protecting the nation’s maritime domain, is still involved in internal security operations in many states of the Federation.”

Reminding the navy of its constitutional role to defend the nation’s maritime domain, Aliyu emphasised the need for more robust strategy to combat crude oil theft.

At the ceremony were the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal, Alex Badeh; former Chief of General Staff ( CGS), Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe; former Chiefs of Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admirals A.A. Aduwo, D.P.E. Omoshola; I.I. Ibrahim; Samuel Afolayan, Victor Ombu and Dele Ezeoba; President, Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) and Mrs. Lami Jibrin.

Others include Rear Admirals Sanmi Alade, Goddy Ayankpele, Ibok EteIbas, Jonathan Ango, B.A. Egbedina and P.S. Adeniyi (rtd); General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Gen. Tanmi Dibi; Commandant, Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Air Vice Marshal, Monday Morgan; as well as Air Commodore Lere Osayintolu.

Ortom to annul first-class chiefs’ appointments From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

B

ENUE State Governor Samuel Ortom has directed the solicitor-general and the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Justice to comply with a court injunction, which restrained the governor and seven others from appointing first-class chiefs.

In a letter by the Permanent Secretary, Government House Administration, Mr. Eugene Ivase, the governor said the aim of the government should be to comply with the subsisting court injunction in respect of the matter.The letter directed that compliance with the injunction on May 4 should be treated as a priority.

Governor Ortom has directed that a five-member committee be set up to review the deposition of the Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse.

Ivase said in another letter that the solicitor- general and the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Justice would chair the committee and Mr. Joseph Damkor, a director in the Ministry of Information, would serve as the secretary.

Other committee members are the permanent secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Secretary to the State Government, Targema Takema, and Mike Gusa.

The terms of reference of the committee, which has three days to submit its report, include to review the deposition process, ascertain its appropriateness or otherwise and make recommendations to the governor.

Senate President: Saraki gets support

By Tokunbo Ogunsami

T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC), Kwara South, Lagos chapter has urged the leadership of the party, senatorselect and other stakeholders to support Senator Bukola Saraki’s bid for Senate President.

The group issued a statement signed by its Chairman, Fattah Amolegbe; Publicity Secretary, Tayo Awodiji; Woman Leader, Mrs. Olabisi Abolaji and Chairman, Elders’ Forum, Chief Jimoh Adeoti The statement said Saraki, a two-term Kwara State governor and a former chairman of the Governors’ Forum, had a pedigree, political and administrative experience the country could benefit from.

The group said Saraki’s contributions to APC’s electoral success in Kwara and at the federal level were enormous and they deserved to be rewarded.

It claimed that Saraki dropped his presidential ambition in the interest of the party and helped to form a formidable opposition, which aided to oust the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government.

“This call has become necessary because Senator Saraki has the leadership qualities to lead the upper chamber of the National Assembly,” the statement noted.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

59

FOREIGN NEWS

Greek PM proposes ‘realistic’ debt deal

G

REEK Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras says he has issued “a realistic proposal” to the country’s international creditors in an attempt to secure a deal over its debts.

“We have submitted a realistic plan for Greece to exit the crisis,” he said.

Mr Tsipras said the plan included “concessions that will be difficult”.

His statement follows talks in Berlin attended by the heads of both the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank.

International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde and ECB president Mario Draghi’s presence at the meeting between German Chancellor Angela Merkel and France’s Francois Hollande

underlined the seriousness of the talks.

Reports suggest the meeting was aimed at coming up with a “final proposal” to issue to Athens.

But Mr Tsipras, who was not included in the meeting, said he had not yet been contacted by the IMF and European officials.

“We are not waiting for them to submit a proposal, Greece is submitting a plan it is now clear that the decision on whether they want to adjust to realism... the decision rests with the political leadership of Europe,” he added.

A •300m (£216m) payment from Greece to the IMF is due on Friday.

There are fears Greece does not have the necessary funds

to pay and could default on the debt, ultimately leading to its exit from the eurozone.

Friday’s payment is the first of four totalling •1.5bn that Greece is due to pay to the IMF in June, and it is understood that the payments could be all bundled together and repaid in a single transaction at the end of the month.

If Greece decides to repay the funds in this way, it would have to notify the IMF, but it has not yet done so.

The country remains in a four-month long deadlock with international creditors over the release of •7.2bn in remaining bailout funds.

European lenders as well as the IMF are pushing for greater austerity reforms in return for the cash, which the

Greek government has so far refused to make.

Germany’s Vice-Chancellor, Sigmar Gabriel, said he supported efforts by the French and German governments to reach a deal in negotiations about Athens’ massive debts, warning Greece’s exit from the eurozone would have “gigantic consequences”.

“The political consequences of a Greek bankruptcy in the eurozone would of course be gigantic.

I think a lot of people have the impression that we’re better off without Greece in the eurozone.

“The truth is that if we break the first piece out of the European house, Europe would be in a different state.”

• Tsipras

Over 400 still missing from capsised cruise ship in China

A

S the Eastern Star cruise ship listed heavily amid pounding rain on the Yangtze River, tour guide Zhang Hui told a colleague, “Looks like we are in trouble. ”The vessel capsized in the storm Monday night with 458 people aboard, touching off a frantic rescue effort. At least 15 people were brought to safety, including three pulled from the overturned hull Tuesday, and five people were confirmed dead, the official Xinhua News Agency reported.

The vessel was carrying

mostly elderly tourists from Nanjing to the southwestern city of Chongqing when it overturned in China’s Hubei Province.Divers rescued a 65-year-old woman and, later, two men who had been trapped, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

It said more people had been found and were being rescued, but did not say whether they were still inside the overturned hull.

CCTV video showed rescuers in orange life vests climbing on the hull, with one of them lying down tapping a hammer and listening for a

U.S. designates Peru’s Shining Path ‘drug traffickers’

T

HE United States treasury department has designated Peruvian Maoist rebel group Shining Path a “significant foreign narcotics trafficker”.

It also named three Shining Path leaders as drug traffickers and froze their assets in the US. The once-powerful Shining Path has been on the US state department’s list of terrorist organisations since 1997.

The treasury said the guerrilla group had evolved into a “criminal n a r c o - t e r r o r i s t organisation”.

In a statement on Monday, it said that the Shining Path taxed the production, processing and transport of cocaine.

The US Treasury says it will continue to target the Shining Path In 2013, Peru overtook Colombia as the world’s largest producer of coca, the raw ingredient of cocaine, according to figures by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

The three Shining Path leaders singled out under the US Kingpin Act are

• Flores

Florindo Flores Hala and brothers Victor and Jorge Quispe Palomino.

Florindo Flores , better known as Comrade Artemio, was arrested in Peru in 2012 and is serving a life sentence for terrorism.

Victor and Jorge Quispe remain at large and on the Peruvian security forces’ list of most wanted men.

They will have their US assets frozen and US citizens will be banned from engaging in transactions with them.

The Shining Path posed a major challenge to the Peruvian state in the 1980s and early 90s.

After the capture of its main leaders its influence was greatly reduced, but the Peruvian government has long warned that the guerrilla group had shifted its attention to the illegal drugs trade.

US treasury official John Smith said that designating the group as narcotics traffickers would support “the government of Peru’s efforts to actively combat the group.”

response, then gesturing downward. ”We will do everything we can to rescue everyone trapped in there, no matter they’re still alive or not, and we will treat them as our own families,” Hubei military region commander Chen Shoumin said at a news conference shown live on CCTV. The survivors included the ship’s captain and chief engineer, both of whom were taken into police custody, CCTV said.

Relatives who gathered in Shanghai, where many of the

tourists started their journey by bus, questioned whether the captain did enough to ensure the passengers’ safety and demanded answers from local officials in unruly scenes that drew a heavy police response.

Xinhua quoted the captain and the chief engineer as saying the four-level Eastern Star sank quickly after being caught in what they described as a cyclone.

The Communist Party-run People’s Daily said the ship sank within two minutes.

Zhang, the tour guide, said in an interview with Xinhua

Vatican finance chief seeks help over ‘sociopath’ claim

V

ATICAN finance chief George Pell is seeking legal advice after being accused of an “almost sociopathic” approach to child abuse allegations.

The allegations from Peter Saunders, a member of the Vatican’s own commission on child protection, come as Australia investigates historic abuses.

Australian-born Cardinal Pell denies accusations he helped cover up abuses by a paedophile priest.

He has offered to testify at the Australian inquiry.

Mr Saunders, himself a victim of abuse by a priest, was appointed by Pope Francis last year to the Vatican’s new commission to protect children.

Pope Francis last year established a special commission for the protection of children He said Cardinal Pell had a “catalogue of denial” about child abuse in the church, which was “making a mockery” of the Vatican’s wider abuse investigations.

“He has a catalogue of denigrating people, of acting with callousness, cold-heartedness, almost sociopathic I would go as far as to say, this lack of care,” he said about the Cardinal’s handling of abuse claims.

“Given the position of George Pell as a cardinal of the church and a position of huge authority within the Vatican, I think he is a massive, massive thorn in the side of Pope Francis’s papacy if he’s allowed to remain.”

A spokesperson for Mr Pell on Monday described the claims as “false and misleading” and said the Cardinal would now consult with his legal advisers.

“Cardinal Pell has never met Mr Saunders, who seems to have formed his strong opinions without ever having spoken to His Eminence,” said the spokesperson in a statement.

“In light of all of the available material, including evidence from the Cardinal under oath, there is no excuse for broadcasting incorrect and prejudicial material,” the statement said.

Australia is investigating how schools, churches and the government responded to child abuse cases.

A royal commission has been hearing testimony from victims in Ballarat in the state of Victoria, where priest Gerald Ridsdale had sexually abused dozens of boys in various parishes between the 1950s and 1970s.

Senior Australian Catholic clergy are accused of protecting paedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale.

Cardinal Pell has been accused of being complicit in moving Ridsdale around the state, and of attempting to bribe Ridsdale’s nephew into keeping quiet about his abuse.

Ridsdale, 81, was defrocked and is in jail for more than 140 sexual offences against child victims. He has been testifying at the inquiry

from his hospital bed that he grabbed a life jacket with seconds to spare as the ship listed in the storm, sending bottles rolling off tables and suddenly turned all the way over.

Some survivors swam ashore, but others were rescued after search teams climbed on the upside-down hull and heard people yelling for help from within more than 12 hours after the ship overturned.

Thirteen navy divers were on the scene and 170 more were joining them, Chen said.Many of the passengers

took a bus from Shanghai to Nanjing for the departure to Chongqing.

Their relatives gathered in Shanghai at a travel agency that had booked many of the trips, and later went to a government office to demand more information about the accident before police broke up the gatherings.

The ship sank in the Damazhou waterway section, where the river is 15 meters (50 feet) deep.

The Yangtze is the world’s third-longest river and sometimes floods during the summer monsoon season.

Australia to change dual citizenship rules

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EW legislation proposed by Australia's Coalition government, expected to be introduced within weeks, will enable the government to remove Australian citizenship from dual nationals who take up arms or support militant groups at home or overseas.

More than 100 Australians are thought to be fighting with Islamic State and other extremists in Iraq and Syria, and the government in Canberra estimates that up to half are dual citizens.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott insists tough measures are needed to protect the country from those who are trying "to destroy us".

Mr Abbott has also suggested that some sole Australian nationals involved in terrorism could lose their citizenship.

That controversial proposal would allow the country's immigration minister to strip citizenship from second-generation migrants if they could be eligible for passports from another country.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott is concerned about the enemy within Australia The idea is part of a broader official discussion paper that has raised the ire of some senior cabinet ministers reportedly worried about how sole citizens will be affected, even though that could include one of Australia's most

wanted men, Khaled Sharrouf.

Sharrouf, a petty Sydney criminal with Lebanese heritage, dragged his family into the war in Syria in 2013.

Ten years ago, Sharrouf was jailed for his part in one of the biggest terrorism conspiracies Australia has ever seen, but a spell in prison did nothing to quell his radicalism.

Last year, he posted a photograph on social media of his seven-year-old son holding up a severed head in Syria.

There are now reports his Muslim-convert wife, Tara Nettleton, wants to flee Syria and bring her five children back to Australia.

"Khaled Sharrouf is the poster boy for the bad jihadi," explains Prof Greg Barton, an expert in international relations and politics at Monash University.

"When you think of people you would want to deny citizenship and not come back to Australia then he fits the bill perfectly," says Prof Barton.

UK Home Secretary Theresa May says "British values" could help counter home-grown terrorism Under current legislation, dual nationals can lose their Australian citizenship if they fight for another country that is at war with Australia.

The forfeit is automatic, and there is no provision for ministerial intervention, as there would be under the proposed changes, which would mirror elements adopted in the UK.

60

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

NEWS APC moves to stop PDP’s plot for Senate President

23 vehicles, 30 shops burnt in Lagos fire Continued from page 4

ceived a call about one hour after the tanker fell. If we had been called earlier, maybe we would have been able to prevent an inferno, but when we arrived here about 10 minutes after the call, we met an inferno already in progress.”

Piecing together the remote cause of the incident from several “eyewitnesses”, two versions of events became prominent. According to Bisi Idowu and whose house was razed, the “touts” are to blame for the fire.

Idowu said: “The tanker had a fault and was parked at Alagba area just before you climb this bridge. I saw the tanker there around 10: pm.

At that time, the officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) were there with the truck driver. Then around midnight or some minutes after, when the tanker was fixed, the ‘area boys’ demanded some money from the driver and they were dragging the issue until this incident happened. We were in the house when we heard shouts from the tanker driver that all of us should vacate our houses, that petrol has poured out.

We rushed out; we couldn’t take anything from our house. I am naked now with nothing in this world.”

But Idowu Lawal, an engineer who lives on Bakare Jafojo Street, which also bore the brunt of the fire, said the tanker’s brake was faulty and the officials of LASTMA were helping him to stabilise the vehicle when the driver suddenly veered off the bridge into the street, causing the fuel spillage.

When The Nation arrived at the scene around 7: am, houses and shops were still smouldering. It was also observed that the tanker

tumbled from the tail end of Iyana Ipaja Bridge, broke the iron barriers and landed on its side. The vehicle also fell on an LT Parker 508 bus owned by Mr Atanda Segun which was parked by the side of the bridge.

The fuel began to spill into the drainage, passing through new Ipaja Road to Oremeji and Oki streets.

Some flowed through the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway into Bakare Jafojo street, about two kilometers away from the scene of the crash.

The fire was said to have started from the end of Jafojo Street and in five minutes had reached New Ipaja Road.

Many residents could not recover anything from their homes and shops.

Fatima Aransiola, a Mass Communications student of Moshood Abiola polytechnic Abeokuta said her family lost “everything”. Mutiat Oseni, who sells Islamic material said she lost “millions”. Suraj Onifade, who spoke on behalf of other shop owners, estimated their losses to be about N20 million.

According to Southwest media coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Mr Ibrahim Farinloye, 23 vehicles and 30 shops were razed. He said 12 injured people were treated and discharged.

The Director, Lagos State Fire Service, Razak Fadipe said six tricycles and some electric poles and cables were destroyed by the fire.

Ayodele Abiodun whose Toyota Matrix was burnt said while he regretted his loss, he was grateful that no lives were lost. “When we heard the alert that fire was burn-

ing, we all scampered around. The first thought was my car, but when I got outside and discovered the huge fire, I knew my car was gone. I bought it two years ago, it was painful. I cried but I thank God I am alive.”

We ran out naked and screaming.

Residents of the affected streets said they climbed the fence or carried babies and children through the roof to escape the inferno. On house number 1, Jafojo Street, which was partially burnt, Mrs. Ibe Okpia dragged her four children through the fence ferrying them to safety.

Another resident of the house, Mary Asika, said they rushed out naked into the streets while screaming for help. “We were like mad people. When we rushed out, we met many naked people who were also fleeing the fire, shouting and screaming.

It was a terrible night,” she said.

Mrs. Abimbola Adefusi, who lives on Lawal Street, described the fire as intense.

“It was intense. We all ran out because we did not know where the fire will get to. Fortunately, it did not affect our street. But when we came out in the night, I saw a lot of people, many of them naked.

Some were bleeding and many were crying. Those whose houses were burnt had borrowed clothes to wear. It was very bad,” she said.

Police Commissioner Kayode Aderanti said his men will probe the incident.

“We thank God there was no fatality, just some casualty.

The role of the police is to investigate the remote and immediate causes of this incident and ensure that we bring to book those who are responsible for this dastardly

Continued from page 4

•Police chief Aderanti ... yesterday.

act,” he said.

Aderemi Desalu, Permanent secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, said: “We thank Lagosians for contacting us on time through our 767 and 112. I want to implore Lagosians to always keep back a bit whenever there is disaster in order for those of us doing the work to do it freely.”

Fadipe advised tanker drivers to “drive at night and the drivers that must drive at night should use the morning and afternoon to rest so there will not be serious fatigue on you to drive at night”.

“The truck that fell at Magbon bus stop along Badagry road was contesting road with a tipper. You can imagine a driver conveying combustible product doing that. So it is very important our drivers are very careful when driving.”

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has begun post emergency operations at the scene. According to Femi Giwa, Head of Operations, the agency would recover the site; know the exact number of casualties with a view to recommending appropriate measures to the government.

called a meeting of its senators and Representatives for tomorrow in Abuja.

A statement by National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed inviting the lawmakers to the meeting did not reveal the agenda. It only urged them to be punctual at the International Conference Centre venue.

The meetings with the senators and the Reps will hold separately.

It was, however, learnt that the meetings might be used to galvanise a consensus.

As for the PDP, it was learnt that some of its governors have offered to bankroll the project to “pay back APC in its own coin for controlling the Seventh House of Representatives even when President Goodluck Jonathan was still in charge”.

Another source added: “We also want to spring a surprise and prove that anything is possible in politics. Once Mark and Ekweremadu are back in the saddle, APC will need at least the support of 72 or 73 members to remove them.

“If you look at Section 50 (2) (c), the votes of not less than two-thirds majority of the Senate are required to remove the President of the Senate and deputy.”

“The PDP is trying to capitalise on internal wrangling within APC to realise its agenda.”

A third source however spoke of Plan B by some PDP leaders bordering on block votes.

The source added: “What the Port Harcourt retreat has so far achieved is the need for PDP senators-elect to vote enbloc based on prevailing circumstances in the Senate.

“The horse-trading will determine the direction of PDP bloc votes although the opposition is waiting in the wing for any slip.”

In his speech at the retreat in Port Harcourt, the outgoing President of the Senate, Chief David Mark, pleaded with PDP members-elect in the National Assembly to be united.

Mark said: “We must subject our individual interest to our group interest. In the election of principal officers of National Assembly, we must vote in one accord. We must know that united we stand, divided we fall.

“We must take our destinies in our hands. We must be ready to provide credible, vibrant, determined and focused opposition to the party in power in a manner that would guarantee development and good governance.

“In doing so, we must maintain a strong synergy between our members in the National Assembly and the National Working Committee. The PDP is still a brand all Nigerians know. We just need to reinvent the wheels and move forward.”

Scores killed in Maiduguri Continued from page 4

Commissioner of Police Aderemi Opadokun said the bombing occurred at about 11.30 a.m.

“A suicide bomber, who was shouting “Sai Buhari”, and dancing in the abattoir, detonated Improvised Explosive Device (IED) strapped on his body when people had gathered around him.

“Five people, including himself, died, while eight others sustained injuries”, he said.

Opadokun added that policemen were mobilised to the scene to evacuate the bodies and convey the injured to the hospital, adding that investigation into the blast was ongoing.

A witness who helped evacuate victims from the scene said: “We have been helping to evacuate the bodies and I can say over 50 people died from the attack,” Isa Mohammed, a vigilante militia member, said by phone.

Buhari, service chiefs meet Yesterday, the service chiefs met with President Buhari at the Defence House in Abuja on the Boko Haram challenge and other security matters. The president has not moved to the Presidential Villa.

All of them, led by Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Alex Barde attended the meeting.

Others at the meeting were National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Kenneth Minimah, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosun and Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase.

Naval chief Vice Admiral Jibrin told reporters at the end of the meeting that the Nigerian Armed Forces will continue to sustain the tempo against Boko Haram until the terrorists are defeated. .According to him, work is in

progress on the presidential directive for the command centre against Boko Haram to relocate to Maiduguri, Borno State.

He said: “The Boko haram issue, like I told you we have just given general briefing with respect to general security situation. Specifically on Boko Haram, with the level of successes being recorded, we want to maintain the tempo, and sustain until they are routed out.

“Like I told you, we are sustaining the tempo and the successes we have recoded so far, we want to continue to maintain that and if there is any suggested solutions that requires amendments or alteration of what we’re doing, why not? Most especially the more they give us the intelligence, the better.” he added.

On when the command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri, he said: “The command cente we are the ones to go back and work on it. Soon it will be carried out, it is a Presidential directive, it must be carried out, and we must do that as quickly as possible.”

He urged all Nigerians to continue to support the military and provide them with the needed intelligence.

“Their movements and suspicious movement should be reported to the police of course the police will make that available to us. You know as we continue to put pressure on them, in the Sambisa area, they will try to run away from there and then create further problems, using improvised explosives devices.” he said He said that the meeting was the first time the service chiefs were meeting formally with the Commander-in-chief of the armed forces since his inauguration to give him the general security briefing of the country.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

61

NEWS

Speakership: Gbajabiamila, Monguno move to consolidate support T HE Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Mohammad Monguno have intensified efforts at garnering maximum support for their House leadership bids.

This is as one of the contenders for the House Speakership, Yussuf Suleiman Lasun (Osun), dropped out of the race in support of Gbajabiamila.

Three contenders for the Speakership have stepped down in favour of the Minority Leader.

The campaign team of the two lawmakers yesterday said its intention was to consolidate on the gains it has made with the lawmakers already.

Consequently, the team, it was gathered, has designed plans aimed at winning over members that were yet to make up their minds as well as those supporting other candidates.

According to a source, the

•Lasun drops ambition for Lagos Rep From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

team was more emboldened to approach its objectives due to the widespread support the two contenders are enjoying.

“The Gbajabiamila/ Monguno ticket has the support of more than 80 out of the 92 members from the Northwest, while 40 members-elect from the Northeast have declared their support for the duo.

“In the Northcentral, 80 per cent of the lawmakers there are for them. Majority of lawmakers from the Southwest have already endorsed the Gbajabiamila/Monguno ticket.

“Our efforts now is to get more members from the

Southsouth and Southeast.

“You know Gbajabiamila is well-accepted among our colleagues, and Monguno too is a very popular lawmaker. So, what we want to do between now and next week is to intensify our campaign so that we will get members on our side,” he said.

However, Lasun, who was earlier being touted as deputy to one of the aspirants, in a statement yesterday, said his decision to step down was as a result of the support Gbajabiamila enjoys from party leaders and members from the Southwest.

He, however, stated that the experience of being Minority Leader has adequately prepared Gbajabiamila for the position

of Speaker.

The statement reads: “With or without zoning arrangement at the party level, I went ahead to declare my interest to contest the position of the Speaker.

“I have gone round to engage with individual members and groups to realise this ambition.

“But recent events have shown that the party leaders, particularly from the Southwest, have decided on the candidacy of Gbajabiamila to run for the position of Speaker.

“As a loyal party man, I cannot do otherwise. I, Hon Yusuf Suleiman Lasun, therefore support the candidacy of Gbajabiamila.

“I also promise to work assiduously in the coming days for the realisation if thus objective.”

Top aspirants meet House of Reps’ pressure group

T

WO top contenders for the position of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and Yakubu Dogara, have been certified qualified to lead the Eighth House by a pressure group in the House, The Patriots.

The group has, however, denied endorsing either of the contesting lawmakers.

The group in a statement yesterday by its Chairman, Publicity Committee, Abdulrazak Namdas, said though the two contestants performed brilliantly in the integrity test, they must face Nigerians in a televised public debate.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

It reads: “In line with our mission to conduct integrity test for candidates wishing to contest leadership position of the House of Representatives, we wish to state that the two leading candidates namely; Femi Gbajabiamila and Dogara Yakubu, have appeared before members of The Patriots.

“Although, they appeared separately along with their campaign teams at our secretariat at No.4 Durban Street, Off Adetojumbo Ademola Crescent, they conducted themselves with utmost decorum.

“The duo did not only state their mission and vision for the race, but answered several questions from members as part of effort to determine their confidence, competence, knowledge, experience, track records, versatility, reliability and networking among other parameters.

“The engagement was the first time The Patriots has met with any candidate since its publicity emerged on April 30, 2015 during the induction course organised for the 8th Assembly in Abuja.

“However, in-spite of the separate engagement with the frontline candidates, The Patri-

ots has yet to take side with any candidate, rather it is working towards organising a public debate to provide opportunity for members-elect and indeed Nigerians to scrutinise their credentials with the view to identifying the best.

“As you are aware, The Patriots is a Bi-Partisan Assembly of both the returning and newly elected House Members committed to transparent and improved process of leadership selection in the green chamber.

“The group members cut across parties, states, zones, ethnicity, faiths, gender and age group”.

•From Left: Vice Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC) Mohammed Bello, its chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi and Commissioner, Finance and Management Services Mr. Patrick Umeh, at the NERC Public Hearing to consider proposals to establish an Independent System Operation (ISO) and cap estimated billing in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Saraki is best, says Nwaoboshi

T

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

HE ambition of Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to clinch the position of Senate President when the Eight Senate is inaugurated next week has received a boost from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senator-elect Peter Nwaoboshi.

Nwaoboshi, who was elected to represent Delta North, described Saraki as a detribalised parliamentarian with wide administrative experience.

He spoke to reporters on the sideline of the one-day retreat for lawmakers-elect on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Monday.

The senator-elect described Saraki as “a principled and firm lawmaker who cannot be dictated to anyhow.”

He noted that Saraki was able to hold all the governors together irrespective of political party affiliation when he was the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum.

He said: “We must quit playing with mundane things.

At this point in our national history and in the bid to further entrench the ethos of democracy, as it concerns the Principle of Separation of Powers, we all agreed that competent and capable hands must be elected or put in position of authority.

“In that respect, Senator Saraki is the most qualified to occupy the seat of the Senate President. He is a detribalised Nigerian. He was once a chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum and in that position, he was able to hold the various governors from different political parties together.

“He is not somebody that anybody can just pick up and dictate to. This means he will not allow any external force to dictate to us in the Senate. He has done it before, even in Kwara State.”

N

Al-Makura backs Lawan for Senate President

ASARAWA State Governor Tanko AlMakura has pledged his support for the aspiration of Senator Ahmed Lawan as the Senate President in the 8th National Assembly.

Al-Makura spoke in Jos, the Plateau State Capital, when he paid condolence visit to the family of his mother-in-law, Hajiya Aisha Mamman Musa, over her death.

Hajiya Musa died at the early hours of Monday morning in her residence in Jos. Lauding the choice of Lawan for the Senate presidency of the Eighth Assembly, the governor said: “Having Senator Lawan at this point in time to lead the upper chamber of the National Assembly will be the best thing for Nigerian democracy, having being an experienced legislator in the country.

“I have taken a look at the list of the senators that are showing interest in the position of Senate President. But Senator Lawan stands out in the list, and I feel he is the best choice for now. If I am in the Senate, I will support Senator Lawal to be the next Senate President.”

Lawal, who represents Yobe Central, also led Sena-

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

tors Abdullahi Adamu (former governor of Nasarawa State), Solomon Ewuga and many others on condolence visit to the family of the deceased.

The senators prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.

He said: “We are together to share with one another in times of happiness and sadness”.

He added: “God Knows why she passed on at this time. We pray for her soul to rest in peace.”

The wife of the President, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, who also condoled with the family, urged them to accept the death of Hajiya Musa in good faith. The First Lady prayed for the repose of her soul.

Hajiya Musa, who died at the age of 85, was survived by 10 children and 50 grand children.

She has been buried according to Islamic rite.

Daughter of the deceased, Aisha Dahiru Ibrahim, described her mother as generous and caring.

She expressed appreciation for the visit, saying the sympathisers have encouraged the family members.

Afe Babalola to legal panel: appoint all that qualify as Senior Advocates

E

MINENT lawyer Chief Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) has called on the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC) to reverse the practice of short-listing legal practitioners for the status of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

Aare Babalola said henceforth, the LPPC should appoint all legal practitioners to SAN status once they are qualified.

He urged LPPC to copy the practice in England where the status is awarded to all that are qualified yearin-year-out.

The Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) spoke at the start of the 48th Conference of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers (NALT) held in the institution yesterday.

By Adegunle Olugbamila

In a statement by ABUAD Head, Public Relations Tunde Olofintula, the legal luminary noted that the title of SAN, the equivalent of Queens Counsel (QC), was imported from England, where the idea of the silk equally emanated.

According to the frontline lawyer, England has for years, maintained the tradition of bestowing QC stratus on qualified practitioners regardless of the numbers that apply each year.

He wondered why Nigeria could not take a cue from that age-long practice.

He noted that some practitioners have been calling for the abrogation of SAN because those who qualify in a particular year eventually end up

not being appointed.

He said: “But what do we have here? In the last few years, many lawyers have been asking for the abrogation of the SAN title. Their grievance is that they apply year after year and those who are qualified could be as many as 70. But at the end of the day, the law limits the number appointable to only 15, leaving a backlog of those who are qualified”.

This development, Babalola regretted, has led to nepotism in the appointment of SAN, alleging that those who appoint qualify colleagues to SAN status now do so more on personal affiliation than merit.

“The question then arises: If a person is qualified, when does he become unqualified again? Perhaps one may ask those who are charged with

the duty of appointing 15 out of 70, what criteria they use to jettison those who are qualified? This practice of appointing 15 out of the several that are qualified has led to ‘selection’, which may not be free from extraneous considerations,” he said.

The Chief Justice, Justice Mahmud Muhammad, has called for concerted efforts of all to flush out bad eggs to restore the dignity and honour that had been the hallmark of the legal profession.

Muhammad said lawyers, judges and some in the academia are culpable.

According to him, the theme of this year’s conference: “Mainstreaming Interdisciplinary Approach to Legal Education: Imperative for Nigeria Development”,

is not only apt, but properly fits into ABUAD philosophy.

The CJN who was represented by the Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad said: “Universities and other tertiary institutions, are a meeting place for great minds of people who are passionate about knowledge, of scholarly people, a place of critical and rational inquiry, an intimate community where the molding of minds and character is a priority, a human-centred institution without any bias for race or creed, a centre that is universal in outlook without neglecting its immediate society’s aspirations, a centre for free thinking and free pursuit of research and thinking, an atmosphere that is conducive for learning”.

62

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015

63

SPORT EXTRA OPERATION CRUSH CHAD

Ogu, Ighalo, Ukoh are early birds J

OHN Ogu, Anthony Ukoh and Odion Ighalo were the early arrivals among the foreign based players into the Super Eagles camp on Tuesday.

Confirming this to NationSport, the team's media officer Toyin Ibitoye said that they were expecting a full house

From Andrew Abah, Abuja before midnight on Tuesday.

According to him, the players who arrived before lunch time on Tuesday were expected to be part of the training session on Wednesday "as we said earlier, the team has changed its train-

Keshi retains eight home Eagles for Chad • Ogu

• Ighalo

S

UPER Eagles’ coach Stephen Keshi has retained 8 home based players in camp ahead of the June 13 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad.

Goalkeepers Daniel Akpeyi and Ikechukwu Ezenwa.Defenders Azubuike Egwuekwe,Solomon Kwambe and Chima Akas.

Midfielder Bright Onyedikachi, Strikers Gbolahan Salami and Ikechukwu Gabriel.

Making the announcement on Tuesday,Keshi said the retained players would be joined by the fifteen invited foreign based professionals for the final phase of preparations for Nigeria's opening

Lille swoops for Omeruo

H

ERVE Renard’s first major signing as Lille new coach could well be Nigeria defender Kenneth Omeruo, AfricanFootball.com can exclusively report today.

Sources close to the Ligue 1 club have informed AfricanFootball.com Renard has swung into action immediately to shore up his new team ahead of the new season by compiling his list of transfer targets.

And one of his top targets is the 21-year-old Omeruo, who has caught the eye of Renard since the AFCON 2013 when the Super Eagles brushed the Frenchman’s Zambia on their way to winning a third continental title.

AfricanFootball.com has already reported that the Nigerian central defender still does not have a future at Stamford Bridge after going on loan to first Dutch club ADO Den Haag and most recently Middlesbrough.

“Renard has already made contacts to sign Omeruo and already Lille are in pole position to sign the player,” revealed the source close to the French club.

“But it is not yet known whether this would be a permanent deal or a loan.”

Omeruo’s contract at Chelsea will run out in June 2018.

This past season, Lille, who already have Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, failed to qualify to feature in either the UEFA Champions League or Europa League after they finished a disappointing eighth.

2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kaduna next weekend.

He urged the players who failed to make the cut, not to be discouraged but to work harder to keep themselves among the pool of players that could be called up for future national team assignments.

In another development,coach Stephen Keshi has released the players of Warri Wolves for this weekend's all important CAF Confederation Cup playoff second leg against AC Leopards of Congo.

The game comes up on Saturday,June 6 at the Warri Township Stadium.

The Nigerian representatives lost the first leg 3-0 but are confident they can turn things around in Saturday's return leg.

The players,Daniel Akpeyi,Azubuike Egwuekwe,Solomon Kwambe and Gbolahan Salami are expected to report back in the Super Eagles’ camp immediately after the game.

Success, Ifeanyi Matthew miss Flying Eagles’ training

T

HE Flying Eagles have put behind them the disappointment from the loss to Brazil and Tuesday morning’s training at the Manukorihi Park was highly spirited.

However, striker Isaac Success, who on Monday became the first Nigerian player to score against the South Americans at this level of international football, and Ifeanyi Matthew stayed out of the training.

Success complained of tightness on his hamstring, while Matthew is nursing a left foot injury he suffered in the Brazil clash.

Giwa FC goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo was outstanding as an outfield player for the second team as he dished out

some long-range passes.

The team will have their final training for the Korea match on Wednesday morning.

Tuesday cheer for the squad came when they enjoyed a meal of pounded yam and vegetable soup provided by Aucklandbased James Rotimi and his family.

Rotimi from the school of engineering AUT University drove down five hours with his wife, Funmi, and their three children to serve the Flying Eagles a delicious lunch.

“My wish is that we get this type of lunch all the way to the end of the tournament,” dreamed defender Izu Omego, who has struggled to adapt with the dishes served in both Germany and New Zealand.

Ighalo undergoes special training

O

• Omeruo

DION Ighalo is not leaving anything to chance to shine for Nigeria in an AFCON 2017 qualifier against Chad as he is undergoing special personal training ahead of the game.

Ighalo, who recently made his full international debut for Nigeria, has tried to maintain his fitness level af-

ter the English Championship season in England ended by undergoing training at FC Manchester ground under the guidance of Nigerian-born FC Manchester coach, Chuks Akuneto.

The Nigerian coach has been working on Ighalo's speed and fitness to keep him in shape for the task ahead in the Eagles.

ing sessions from morning to evening time. This will begin on Wednesday, when we are expected to have all the players in camp. We would not have the routine Media parley today, it would now hold on Friday. By then, our media colleague would have all the players ready to interact with" he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Head Coach Stephen Keshi has dropped 16 of the home based players leaving only eight comprising of Daniel Akpeyi, Ekene Ezenwa, Solomon Kwanbe, Gbolahan Salami, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Bright Onyedikachi and Gabriel Ikechukwu. They would be joined by the 15 foreign basedplayers led by Vincent Enyeama, Musa Ahmed, among others.

• Keshi

Amuneke to take experimental team to South Korea IGERIA'S U-17 side, Golden Eaglets, would feature an experimental team at the 4-Nation Suwon Invitational Tournament in South Korea.

Coach Emmanuel Amuneke said it was imperative that newly recruited fledgling players be exposed to the demands of top level matches ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

In strong contention for the trip to the Far East are the likes of captain Kelechi Nwakali, goalkeeper Akpan Udoh, striker Victor Osimhen and defender Abass Usman from the squad that secured the ticket to Chile at the CAN U-17 Championship in Niger in March. New players like defender Ejike Ikwu, midfielder Gavi Opeoluwa and striker Odufeso Babatunde may also be considered.

N

• Amuneke " We have some exciting new players who have shown us some conviction in training but they need exposure and we are grateful for this tournament opportunity in Korea," Amuneke told thenff.com.

The 4-Nation tournament will be played on a roundrobin basis amongst host Korea, Nigeria, Brazil and USA between June 10 and 14.

Anichebe’s injury woes worry West Brom

W

EST BROM'S assistant boss Dave Kemp has admitted injury is the problem of Nigeria international Victor Anichebe and keeping him fit will be the club's biggest challenge for next season.

At 27, the powerful forward has made just 80 league starts in his career after a series of niggling injuries and only 22 for Albion, since his £6 million signing from Everton two years ago.

The Beijing 2008 Olympic football silver medallist has played just 45 games out of possible 76 for ‘The Baggies’ in the last two seasons, scoring six

goals.

Kemp admitted the former Everton hit-man needs to be available much more if he is to realise his considerable potential in his peak years.

Kemp said: “If you look at his career, he hasn’t played enough. Whether we can get him on the pitch more, we’ll have to wait and see, but when he’s played, he’s had some really good games.

“Once we got him fit he started to make an impact and that’s very pleasing, but he was injured when we came, so it’s about getting him up to speed.

“We’d have liked to have used him more, but he wasn’t fit.”

TODAY IN THE NATION

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2015 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.10 NO.3234

‘If our 200 radio and TV stations carried as many life-saving and health information messages as political messages we would all be healthier and happier’ TONY MARINHO

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

S

INCE the military first intervened in our politics in January 1966, the presidentialtype Constitution they replaced the old Parliamentary-type of the First Republic with in October 1979 has been a bone of contention, not least because many Nigerians, experts and laymen alike, consider the Constitution’s claim of speaking for “We the People,” as a fraud. This is simply because the military exercised its veto over the final document, something which, by definition, the military had no one’s mandate to do.

Since 1979, our Constitution has gone through some changes in 1996 under military president General Ibrahim Babangida and in 1998 under the late military head of state, General Sani Abacha, until it took its current form and substance in 1999 under military head of state, General Abdulsalami Abubakar. It is this military fatherhood of our Constitution that many, if not most, Nigerians find disagreeable; hence the persistent call for a constitution that can legitimately speak for “We the People.”

The first opportunity for a fully civilian siring of our constitution since the First Republic came under a civilian President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Remember he was the military head of state, who gave us the 1979 Constitution a little over three years after his predecessor, General Murtala Mohammed, who had ended nine years of military rule under General Yakubu Gowon, was killed in an unsuccessful military coup in February 1976.

For almost his entire eight years as civilian president, Obasanjo balked at any idea of a national conference, sovereign or otherwise, for the amendment or change of our constitution. Towards the end of his second tenure, however, he suddenly saw the light and initiated one. But then it came under widespread suspicion that his change of mind was essentially motivated by a hidden agenda of securing a third, some even said a life, term for himself in violation of the constitution’s limit of two terms of four years each for the executive arm of government. That suspicion was born out when he consigned the conference’s report to the dustbin after the National Assembly voted against any change of the constitution’s term limit.

Fast forward to May 29, 2011 when Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, president until barely six days ago, secured the office on his own steam in that year’s presidential election after completing the term of his predecessor, Umaru Yar’adua, who died on May 5, 2010 after a long illness. Like Obasanjo, his since estranged political godfather, Jonathan persistently rejected calls for a national conference. Again, like father like son, the man saw the light only after he was more than half way through first full tenure.

Predictably, widespread suspicions trailed his announcement on October 1, 2013 of a “National Conversation” for possibly a new constitution. Many suspected, with good reason, that it was meant to divert attention from issues of insecurity, corruption, oil theft, lack of power, etc, that seem to have completely swamped him.

Others thought he was persuaded to initiate it by a cabal so as to gain political advantage with some sections of the country in the general elections that were then fast approaching.

If you think the latter argument was so much

RIPPLES TREKKING GOOD FOR THE HEART–Cardiologist

Yes, especially if you try TREKKING from LAGOS to your VILLAGE

People and Politics By MOHAMMED H ARUNA ndajika@yahoo.com

Why Buhari should ignore the national conference report

•President Buhari

rubbish, consider the claim the other by a chieftain of Ohaneze Ndigbo, the umbrella cultural organisation of the Igbo, that they, along with Afenifere, the Yoruba equivalent of Ohaneze, and the South-South region where the former president comes from, voted for him because it was the only way they could guarantee the implementation of the recommendations of the president’s national conference, which were in their favour.

According to the Newswatch Times (April 19), this claim was made by the president of the Anambra State chapter of the Ohaneze, Elder Chris Eluemuno. As such, the chieftain said, any failure by our new president, Muhammadu Buhari, to implement the said recommendations would risk dividing the country.

When President Jonathan inaugurated the conference on March 17, 2014 he reiterated his good faith in convening it. “Let me again repeat,” he said in the last but three paragraph of his 52paragraph speech, “what I have been saying that Goodluck Jonathan has no personal agenda in convening this national conference.”

When he subsequently received the report of the conference on August 21, 2014 at the end of its deliberation, he said he believed it presented a platform for “genuine and sincere dialogue among

T

HE epochal fall from power by PDP sure came with a splash. While President Goodluck Jonathan may be the horned protagonist of that lost paradise, victims are plenteous.

Consider Tom Ikimi, the astute political fortune hunter of that infamous PDP era. He was part of the ‘stranger’ elements (pun intended) who helped to cobble up the now ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). A man as large as his ego, he left the new party in a huff a few months to the historic election, much depressed that he was shunted for the chairmanship position.

He raged, raved and ran back to his PDP puddle. His angst was understandable for a man used to heading political associations in Nigeria. And it mattered nothing how ignoble the body he heads may be. Just throw him in the mix of power and pork and leave the rest to him to mix up.

There are numerous other bit players in this political tragic-comedy that is the fall of PDP. Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, two-time governor of Abia State and founder of the now withered Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), could have done anything to return to

Nigerians.” He also promised that the efforts of the delegates, whose hard work and commitment he praised to high heavens, “shall not be in vain.”

Given his reiteration of his good faith and of his commitment to implement the conference’s recommendations, you would think the man would’ve made the report a major issue in this year’s presidential election.

Well, as we all know, he never did. Instead, like his estranged godfather, Obasanjo, he too consigned the conference report to the cooler. Worse, his quarrel with the National Assembly over his signing its amendment bill in the dying days of his presidency showed quite clearly that giving Nigerians a genuinely civilian constitution was never really of much concern to him.

As we all know he vetoed the National Assembly bill on April 15. An incensed National Assembly then moved immediately to try and override his veto. An equally alarmed presidency countered that by going to the Supreme Court to stop the federal legislators in their tracks. The court obliged on May 7 and asked the legislators to tarry awhile until the substantive case was heard. It then fixed June 18 to hear the case, thus effectively stopping the legislators since their tenure would’ve ended by then. Initially the legislators said they were going to defy the court, but in the end sanity prevailed and they stopped their move.

However, if President Jonathan was inexplicably cool to the idea of amending or changing our constitution, our new president was no different. Indeed he and his party were worse than

indifferent; they were hostile to it apparently because they suspected the ex-president’s motive in convening it, not without good reason.

Even then, as is clear from the new president’s inaugural speech whose precision, clarity and coherence has since become a trademark of his speeches, Buhari is concerned that there should be no conflicts of roles among the three arms of government.

In his speech, he expressed his concern about the almost universal abuse of the Local Government Joint Account especially by governors since the beginning of the current dispensation in 1999.

“Constitutionally,” he said, “there are limits to powers of each of the three tiers of government but that should not mean the Federal Government should fold its arms and close its eyes to what is going on in the states and local governments. Not least the operation of the Local Government Joint Account.”

I agree with our president that his government must be concerned about accountability and transparency at all levels of government.

However, it is a misnomer in our constitution for it to have created the impression that in a true federation there are three tiers of government. As I’ve had cause to argue on these pages in a true federation there are only two levels of government: the federating units and the centre to which they cede certain powers. In such a federation local governments are no more than creatures of the federating units.

Unfortunately our own federation seized being a true one from 1966 when the military first intervened in our politics. Instead it stood our federation on its head when the centre became the creator of the federating units instead of the other way round. To add to the confusion, our constitution still vests the creation of local government with Houses of Assembly and not the National Assembly.

This was one of the key issues that were decided upon by Jonathan’s national conference and we should all be concerned that we sort all such issues out properly.

Even then I still believe President Buhari should ignore the report of the national conference for the simple reason that it was clearly convened in bad faith and also because it was riddled with too many contradictions.

This, however, is a matter for another day, possibly in a not too distant future.

A CATALOGUE OF ERRORS My column last week “Education as Buhari’s priority” contained a catalogue of errors. First, I said in the print editions of this newspaper that Spectrum Communications Company celebrated the 10th Anniversary of its flagship, Hot FM radio station, Abuja, penultimate Tuesday. That was wrong. The celebration was on Monday, the day before.

Second, I said the chairman of the occasion, Professor Jerry Gana, was the first minister of Information in the current Republic. He wasn’t. One reader said it was Dapo Sarumi. Another said it was Yomi Edu. Yet another said it was Sunday Afolabi. I didn’t find time to confirm who was right. What is certain, however, is that Gana was not the first, as I said.

Finally, the not-so-small matter of not giving Hot FM’s frequency, which is 98.3.

All the errors are regretted.

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HARDBALL As ‘The Fixer’ slinks quietly away PDP a few months to the last election. Yes he was willing to do just anything; including unhinging his state, Abia. He levied so much ‘war’ on the government of the day one would think PDP was paradise.

Others who would now yawn wish they were a little pluckier if not perspicacious are Chief Richard Akinjide who with his minister daughter were beaten silly even in their polling units. There is Chief Ahmadu Ali, former chairman and director of the last campaign who seems to wish he is neither seen nor heard ever again. When was the last time you sighted ‘Ali must go’ in public?

Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu must stand up and take his final bow – from politics that is. I doubt that Ndigbo would miss him. Alhaji Bamanga Tukur was still in court challenging his removal as chairman regardless that he was ‘compensated’ with another juicy position

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above as replacement for the PDP top job. We hope he continues in court and pray he reclaims his seat.

What do you say of Senator David Mark, two-time Senate president, now floor member; 20 years already in the Senate and gunning for 24? Now that PDP has fallen from grace, the people of Benue would require a special dispensation to unseat him or if they know any better, seek a “doctrine of necessity” to impose a term limit for parliamentarians too.

Erstwhile governors Sule Lamido (Jigawa) and Babangida Aliyu (Niger) are a doublehearted duo. They are not exactly a doubleganger in the true sense of the word but they take the prize for doing the greatest political back-flip of our history. They led other decamping PDP governors to a decisive meeting. But the duo simply ran away from the venue when it was time to initial agreements. Now they are trapped in PDP. Finally, these fellows are children of the ‘master’ and ‘fixer’ of the PDP age, Chief Tony Anenih. Hardball would just conclude that the king-cat has quietly slunk away from whence he came.

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