The Nation June 01, 2012

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

News German hostage found dead after bloody raid in Kano P2 Sports Yobo seeks support as Super Eagles battle Namibia P24 Business Reps flay lodging of Sovereign Fund in foreign banks P11 www.thenationonlineng.net

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

VOL. 7, NO. 2143 FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

N150.00

UN CR ILA PA IS G G I 2 & ES S 3

OR •THE HORROR OR: The scene of the fire at Danko, near Ogere-Remo on the expressway...yesterday THE SCENE OF HORR

Five dead as fire rages on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway 10 vehicles burnt as tanker spills 30,000 litres of petrol

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OTORISTS had another nasty experience yesterday on the ever-busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

Many were trapped in a terrible traffic jam, which followed an all-night fire

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

sparked by a tanker that spilled its 33,000 litres of petrol on the road.

Five persons were feared dead. Ten vehicles, including three tankers, were burnt in

the fire, which was still smouldering in the afternoon.

The incident occured at Danko village near OgereRemo.

The inferno halted traffic on the nation’s foremost

highway for more than 10 hours.

Many people travelling to Ibadan from Lagos aborted their trip.

Those who died were burnt, according to eyewitnesses.

But the police said only one

person died.

Spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi said: “The accident occurred at about 1 am on Thursday. A driver of a tanker fully loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) was trying to maneouvre his way

through two vehicles on the expressway. His tanker fell and the product spilled on the road.

“In the course of this spill, a fire broke out and the enContinued on page 4

Lagos suspends doctors’ sack as ACN intervenes

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ELIEF came yesterday for the Lagos health sector, with the government suspending the sack of 788 doctors.

The suspension followed a closed door meeting between Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who was prompted to intervene in the crisis by the leadership of the party and well meaning Nigerians.

Tinubu, who addressed reporters

By Miriam Ndikanwu, Staff Reporter

alongside the governor at the Ikeja House, Alausa yesterday, urged the doctors to return to work.

He said: “I have been meeting with the governor to discuss the appeal of all the leadership of the party and well meaning Nigerians and other organisations who are committed to the welfare of our people for him to Continued on page 4

•Prince Ajibola Afonja, Chairman of FirstBank, addressing the bank’s 43rd Annual General Meeting in Lagos...yesterday. Listening are Mr. Bisi Onasanya, Group Managing Director/CEO (left) and Mr. Tijjani Borodo, Company Secretary/Executive Vice President

•CITYBEATS P6 •SPORTS P23 •POLITICS P43 •PEOPLE P25 •MONEY LINK P51

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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NEWS

How best to honour Abiola, by Tinubu •Hafsat: Revisit circumstances of his death

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•From left: Vice-President Namadi Sambo, Nigerian Ambassador to Turkey Ahmed Abdulhamid And Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mr. Nurudeen Mohammed welcoming the Vice-President at the Istanbul International Airport Turkey for Istanbul Conference on Somalia...yesterday

ORMER Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has suggested ways the Federal Government can honour the late Chief Moshood Abiola.

He suggested the naming of a national monument in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) after Abiola, his posthumous declaration as president and the setting aside of a day in his honour.

He contended that though the President’s decision to rename the University of Lagos (Unilag) after Abiola was welcome, it falls short of what is required.

Tinubu spoke in Lagos on Wednesday while receiving protesting students of the university. Numbering about 100, the students, who handed a protest letter to the former governor, said they were in his Freedom House, Victoria Island office to express their displeasure over the renaming of their school.

Tinubu said: “We must congratulate the president for attempting to do it, but we say: do it right. MKO was elected by the entire country, not

just by the Yoruba. He was arrested and taken to Abuja.

“He was tried, incarcerated and eventually died in very controversial circumstances in Abuja under the custody of federal agents. Abiola’s mandate was a national mandate which he tried to reclaim.

“But we must be careful not to localise or sectionalise MKO. Without Abiola, without June 12 elections, we would not be enjoying this democracy now or even the freedom we now have. The seed for what we enjoy was sown by Abiola’s victory on June 12 and millions of Nigerians who voted.

“There are preliminary options for President Jonathan. There is a pending resolution by the National Assembly that recommended that the National Stadium be named after Moshood Abiola.

“Let the President go ahead and name the Abuja stadium after Abiola- a pillar of sports and political icon. Then we will celebrate and respect that.

“Before now, various excuses were

Jonathan consulted widely, says NUC From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

T •Abia State Governor Theodore Orji inaugurating a block of eight classrooms built by C Y Umuoha in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area...yesterday. With him are: Sir Emeka Ananaba, Deputy Governor Cyprian Nwankwo (right) and CY Umuoha.

HE Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) , Prof. Julius Okojie, yesterday said President Goodluck Jonathan consulted widely before renaming University of Lagos (UNILAG).

Okojie spoke with reporters after a meeting with Jonathan at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The NUC boss said six other universities had been renamed in the past.

He said: “Who told you there was no consultation? Can the President act alone? Even in the matters of nine new universities, from the scratch, I know the committee that worked on it. Jonathan is the most engaging President; he is very accessible. I can tell you about that. That he didn’t consult will not be the truth.”

When asked if the Vice-Chancellor or the school’s Senate were consulted before the decision was taken, Okojie replied: “Is that the level of consultation? Who is the proprietor of federal institutions? It is the Federal Government, of course. It is not at that level he will consult but they have been told.”

He said due process would be followed. Okojie said: “The President has never said there is no due process. He has not said we should go and pull down the billboard of University of Lagos today and put Moshood Abiola.

He is a man who believes in due process and he won’t do anything out of the ordinary.”

On the students protest, Okojie said: “There is nothing you do in the university system these days that students won’t react. Whether it is increase of fees or what have you. The President has given a directive. The rest is for us to follow the implementation.”

Fayemi backs name change •Jonathan meets Southwest governors From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

E •Chairman, Dangote Group of Companies Alhaji Aliko Dangote (right), Director, Dangore Group Alhaji Sani and Mr. Olakunle Alake at the 2011 Annual General Meeting of the National Salt Company of Nigeria in Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: JOHN EBHOTA

KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi yesterday threw his weight behind the renaming of the University of Lagos.

The Ekiti governor spoke with State House correspondents after a meeting of Southwest governors with President Goodluck Jonathan.

Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola was absent at the meeting.

Fayemi said: “I happened to be an old student of that school and I know that the President means well by acknowledging the role that Chief Abiola played in securing us this democracy we are all enjoying. As an activist of that era myself, I could not stress enough the importance of the role that Chief Abiola played.

“But clearly, this is an issue that ought to have also been comprehensively discussed by all the stakeholders in order to ensure that everyone takes ownership of the decision that has been taken.”

He also said the students who have been protesting the decision, by virtue of their ages, could not connect the role played by Abiola.

‘Protests unnecessary’

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•From right: Chairperson,House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora Abike Dabiri, Minister of Foreign Affairs Gbenga Ashiru, Members of the Committee, Nasir Ahmed and Bimbo Daramola during a meeting between committee and the ministry in Abuja... yesterday PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

NON-Governmental Organisation, the Media for Ethnic Equality (MEE), yesterday said the protest against the renaming of the University of Lagos is aimed at scoring cheap political point.

The group, in statement in Lagos by its Publicity Secretary, Iyiola Johnson, alleged that the protests are “being fuelled by politicians who want to score cheap political points with the President.”

MEE advised that the Yoruba should not allow themselves to be used as pawns by politicians who exploit and manipulate every issue, incident or situation for political negotiations.

Johnson said: “The Yoruba and indeed Nigerians in their millions are in agreement about the invaluable contributions of Chief Abiola to democracy , sports and the socio-economic well -being of this country. “

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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NEWS RENAMING OF UNILAG ABIOLA VARSITY

•The students in Asiwaju Tinubu’s office... on Wednesday

given over the inconclusiveness of the elections. Some of us were incarcerated and suffered during the June 12 struggle. Since then, the various actors, especially the umpire or head of the Electoral Commission, Prof.

Humphrey Nwosu, in his book de-

clared the result of the election and that Abiola duly won.

“The President can on the basis of this go to the National Assembly to declare him winner, enter it into record and posthumously declare Abiola as the democratically-elected

PHOTO: DAYO ADEWUNMI

president of Nigeria. We will support the President on this and recognise this.

“I won’t stop saying the truth. I won’t stop supporting and promoting the democratic ideals I believe in; we must depart from doing things by

fiat as if we are under the military.”

To the protesting students, Tinubu said: “You have the right to air your grievances over this matter. Let me speak to you as a mentor and a leader.

Though I am in support of your position, but do not criticise the government without giving it alternatives.”

Tinubu urged the students to find a constructive way to tell the President what options are open to him.

He cited the National Stadium, Abuja, National Hospital Abuja (where Abiola died), Eagle Square and the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Some of the student leaders said they were not against the move to immortalise Abiola, but were opposed to the motive behind the renaming of their school.

They argued that the President’s decision was not informed by his belief that Abiola should be immortalised, but an attempt by his government to trivialise Abiola’s name and gain political relevance in the Southwest.

The Coordinator, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone D, Adeyemo Monsuru Tunde, said: “The President is not immortalising Abiola because he loves the Yoruba, but he is doing so to gain his lost political relevance across the geo-political zones in Nigeria, particularly in South West of Nigeria,” A former Senate President, UNILAG, Agbabiaka Ahmed, said the renaming of their school will

not only destroy the brand name it had grown and maintained for 50 years, it was also capable of demoralising the students.

Ahmed, who later handed Tinubu the protest letter written on behalf of ‘concerned University of Lagos alumni, students and youths of Lagos State,’ wondered why the Federal Government failed to consult the school’s Executive, Governing Council and other relevant stakeholders before taking its decision.

The daughter of the late Abiola, Mrs. Hafsat Abiola-Costello, welcomed the honour.

In a statement yesterday, Mrs. Abiola-Costello described her father as an icon of democracy.

Praising President Goodluck Jonathan for the honour, she said the best way to immortalise her father was through transparent, free and fair elections, obedience to the rule of law, due process and banishment of injustice, poverty and want.

She urged the Federal Government to revisit the circumstances surrounding the death of her father to effectively close that dark period in Nigeria’s history and prevent a recurrence.

Mrs. Abiola-Costello said: “It was the sacrifices of pro-democracy activists, the supreme price paid by my father and other martyrs that led to the current civil rule.”

ACN, PDP trade accusations over students’ protests

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the Peoples democratic Party (PDP) yesterday traded accusations over the protests by the students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) against the change of the institution’s name to Moshood Abiola University.

PDP, in a statement by its Zonal Publicity Secretary, Hon. Kayode Babade, said it was shocked that those who benefited from MKO Abiola are raising objection to the honour done him.

It accused ACN of instigating the protests.

But the ACN said the protests were spontaneous because the President did not follow due process.

The PDP said: “The PDP-led Federal Government has done well by honouring MKO Abiola.

“We recall that Prof Soyinka had in the time past clamoured for the immortalisation of MKO and blamed the PDP for not according him the deserved honour. We therefore need to ask, what is now the issue, having

Renaming of UNILAG is arbitrary, says ex-Dean

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FORMER Dean, Faculty of Social Science at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof Lai Olurode, has described the renaming of the school to Moshood Abiola University of Lagos as arbitrary.

Though Olurode admitted that President Goodluck Jonathan deserves commendation for his boldness in recognising MKO Abiola’s sacrifice for the growth of democracy in Nigeria but disagreed on the timing.

He said: “Jonathan’s initiative was indeed laudable.

However, the timing of this decision and the means of that recognition were evidently ill conceived. UNILAG is now recognised the renowned defender of the masses?”

The party appealed to students and other stakeholders “not to be used to tarnish the memory of MKO Abiola and the cherished reputation of the erstwhile University of Lagos.”

In a statement in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the ACN said rather than blame the opposition for the protest, the PDP should be concerned with how the Jonathan Ad-

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

in mourning state having lost its Vice-Chancellor. Secondly, in the context of what Abiola died for, which was the struggle to enthrone due process and rule of law in place of arbitrariness, Abiola himself won’t be happy at the re-naming of an institution in his honour, the process which offends against common sense and the rule of law. “ The President should look elsewhere to honour Abiola who is highly referred as a dogged fighter against procedural breaches and abridgement.”

ministration has reached the right destination through illegal routes.

ACN said while it is not opposed to any action to honour the late Abiola, it is opposed to the sectional nature of the honour.

The statement reads: ‘’Chief Abiola clearly won a national election, and this has been acknowledged by the government itself. Any honour to be conferred on him must reflect that.

While it can be argued that UNILAG is a federal university, the truth re-

Nigerians will decide UNILAG’s name change, says senator

Parents, students kick against name change

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HE Parents Forum of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) yesterday condemned President Goodluck Jonathan for renaming the institution.

The forum, in a statement, said: “The news of the change of name took the University of Lagos Parents’ Forum by surprise. We believe that this is a decision meant to satisfy some people who are not happy with this present government. It is true that Chief Moshood Abiola was a champion of Democracy and worth immortalising but changing the name of the University is uncalled for because the name University of Lagos is not a social identity, but a brand identity.

“If this decision is not reversed, it will affect the image and global ranking of the university.

“With the renaming of the university, the identity will inevitably change. International partners are likely to continuously seek clarification/reassurance that Moshood Abiola University, Lagos is the same as University of Lagos that they had

a relationship with. This also has serious implications for the certificates issued by the university to its teeming alumni who possess the university’s certificates and degrees.

“Instead of renaming the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University, the President can build a hostel for the students within the campus and name it after Chief Moshood Abiola or a new Federal institution should be named in his honour.

“Late Chief M.K.O. Abiola was an astute politician who did not have much to do with Education in Nigeria. His greatest fight was to return Nigeria to democratic rule. In all sincerity, government should consider doing something to immortalise him in remembrance of June 12.”

The Vice-President, UNILAG Distant Learning Institute, Nsikak Udo, said the change was ill-timed.

Udo, in a statement, said: “The action of the Federal Government is not only ill-timed but insensitive.We must stop this so that

mains that it is based in the Southwest. ‘’Also, in an era in which the establishment of universities has been liberalised, everyone with access to funds can now set up a university and name it after himself or herself. That has definitely eroded the importance attached to naming such institutions after national heroes, including Chief Moshood Abiola, winner of the June 12th 1993 presidential election.”

The ACN said it had never shied

away from fighting for its beliefs.

The party said: ‘’What happened was that while President Goodluck ‘’Jonathan has access to the best legal advice possible. Had his advisers cared enough, they would have told him that since UNILAG was set up by an Act, it would require an amendment to that Act to change its name.

They would also have told him that there are other options through which he could use his presidential fiat without creating the kind of unfortunate confusion that has greeted his decision on Chief Abiola. ‘’Such options include making June 12th or the birthday of the late Chief Abiola a national holiday; naming the Eagle Square or the National Stadium, both in Abuja, after him, and acknowledging – as the whole world knows - that he won the 1993 presidential election (instead of calling him a presumed winner) and posthumously inducting him into the league of former Presidents.”

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•Jonathan

one day Nigerians will not wake up to hear that the name of dear country Nigeria has been changed to Federal Republic of Bayelsa. We are not against the personality of MKO but the procedure was illegal hence null and void. We will protest till the National Assembly throws Federal Government’s request out.”

S the controversy over the renaming of the University of Lagos continues, Nigerians through their representatives in both chambers of the National Assembly will take the final decision on the fate of the higher institution.

The senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Gbenga Ashafa, said this in Lagos yesterday at a news conference to mark his one year in the Senate.

Ashafa said the late Abiola deserved the highest honour in the land because of his contributions to democracy.

He said: “Chief M. K. O. Abiola deserves all the honour; in fact, not only one institution should have been named after him, many monuments should have been dedicated to his memory. The Federal Government’s gesture is rather late, it should have come long before now.

“The timing of the announcement is insensitive when the remains late

By Wale Ajetunmobi

vice-chancellor of the institution have not been buried. I wonder why the Federal Government had to do such a controversial thing in a university environment.

“The Federal Government did not go through due process because UNILAG was established by an Act of Parliament. The proposal should have come to the National Assembly and it should have been properly debated and approved before the announcement by the President.

“The Senate and the House of Representatives will look at it critically.

After the due process might have been complied with, it may still be the same UNILAG or the University of Abuja or even the National Stadium that will be named after Chief M. K. O. Abiola. Nigerians will have their say when the issue is tabled before the National Assembly.”

The senator appealed to students of the institution not to be violent and destructive in their protests.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

NEWS Lagos suspends sack of doctors octors Continued from page 1

be more flexible, for him to really look at the issue of the doctors’ strike critically and I can announce to you that he has agreed to suspend the question of the dismissal of those doctors.”

The former governor said there was need to work hard and build institutions that would develop people and prioritise the welfare of the masses, adding that there has not been any problem without resolution.

His words: “The governor has agreed to suspend the dismissal and advise that they should go back to their work and follow the right procedure. I don’t see a point of no-return here and since people are the cornerstone of the progressive policy of the state, I want to thank the governor for looking at it from the point of view of the people, the general concern and I want to advise and appeal to the doctors to immediately resume their work in earnest and forget this intractable position.

“We can solve all those problems; I don’t want to comment further until all parties respect this outcome.

The governor all along has not said it’s impossible; it’s a question of the institution that we all have developed.

He has repeated it several times, the hiring and firing of the doctors is in the hands of the Health Service Commission (HSC). I am very much aware of it and I have to understand him.

“ I have reviewed with even the honourable commissioner concerned and I don’t see any area that cannot be resolved to avoid outright dismissal and since some of them have considered the fact that people, their professional calling, their Hippocratic Oath put the lives and the welfare of our people, both old and young and we are trying to build a great healthcare system in the state, I don’t see why we can’t resolve it and the governor agreed to be more flexible and be more accommodating and be the leader for all.”

Fashola said having considered the appeal from the people, he has directed the Commission to reverse the sack.

“I will like to thank the party and our leaders and leaders of labour organisations especially the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), for playing intercessory role in this matter and all the well meaning people on both sides who have chosen to mediate rather than to take sides,” Fashola said, adding: “The issues are disputes about institutions and nothing more and how we could work together to provide better healthcare. One could not hear those appeals and also the appeals of the ordinary people of the state and remain unmindful of all the responses to them.

“And it is in that light that I have consulted with the HSC and they have assured me that the issue of dismiss-

Five dead as fire rages on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Continued from page 1

•Asiwaju Tinubu speaking to reporters...yesterday. With him are Governor Fashola (centre) and Environment Commissioner Tunji Bello PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

al will be suspended immediately. It is now left for the doctors to return to their locations and to regularise their status with the Health Service Commission and I hope that in the interest of our people, they will seize the opportunity of this olive branch and let us get on with the developmental work that we are tasked with at this time.”

Medical Guild Chairman Dr. Olumuyiwa Odusote, who responded to the development on telephone said: “I was just informed about the development. It has not been formally communicated to

us. If it is true, we have onus to resume work on conditions. First, we’ll continue negotiation. Second, there is no going back on the agreement reached with the Medical Guild in March 2011.”

The dispute arose over the new Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and teaching allowance for house officers.

The government on May 7 sacked the doctors following their participation in a warning strike between April 11 and 13 under the aegis of the Medical Guild.

The Lagos State Universi-

ty Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Board and the State’s Health Service Commission (HSC) announced the sack.

In a statement, Head of Service Adesegun Ogunlewe said the two bodies sacked the doctors as a result of their failure to explain why they were absent from work without leave and without the due observance of the rules and regulations guiding strikes and industrial actions in the Public Service.

The affected doctors included 316 working with LASUTH and 472 working in other hospitals.

Buhari: there’s too much corruption

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•Gen. Buhari

ORMER Head of State Gen. Muhammadu Buhari yesterday condemned the prevalence of corruption in the country.

Buhari, Presidential candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in the 2011 elections, spoke in Abuja at the CPC National Secretariat. He condemned President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration which he described as ‘reversing’ He declared that he might contest the 2015 presidential election.

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

He said: “Old soliders never die. I do not believe in anarchy whether political or whatever.

“Where is the money we are making in this country going? People are embezzling the country’s fund.

The country is full of corruption. This is why I wept on completion of my campaign for the 2011 election.

I said I would never join partisan politics in 2015. I said I would not contest in 2015 but since then, hell

was let loose, members of my party, associates and other concerned citizens started intervening. I told them that it is up to my party to decide if I would contest in 2015. And now I may withdraw my decision.

“God will punish our corrupt leaders even if Nigerians do not punish them. I think the present government is reversing. From what is going on at the National Assembly and other government agencies, things are going bad. Some people have formed a syn-

dicate and stealing billions of money in Nigeria .

Responding to a question, Buhari said: “Yes, you are right, I broke down. I could only recall that it was the only time I ever broke down. I wept because I saw how rich this country is materially and otherwise. The whole world is envious of Nigeria . Now, most Nigerians cannot educate their children, most Nigerians cannot have proper medical care, most Nigerian cannot afford clean water.”

tire area was engulfed by fire.

“A casualty was reported. A male whose identity is yet to be ascertained but investigation is on-going.”

But a man who claimed to have witnessed it said the incident was preventable if the road was in a good shape.

“It is always disheartening to witness how fellow human beings are burnt to death. I have heard the news of accidents on this road but I am still in shock over what I witnessed today,” he said.

According to him, seven trailers and many cars were burnt.

“The tanker driver could not say that he was not aware that the road was bad. He was on high speed when suddenly he ran into a pot hole and this led to the accident. The tanker fell after manouvering its way in between two cars.

“We counted five bodies but I am sure that the casualty figure would be more than that.”

Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Sector Commander in Ogun State, Ayobami Omiyale, said five persons were critically injured.

He said the fire was put out

by Fire Service men. The injured were taken to hospitals.

Reacting to the incident yesterday, the concessionaire of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Bi-Courtney Highway Services Limited, noted that it had always warned of the hazards of parking of trailers on the roadside.

In a statement by its spokesman, Dipo Kehinde, Bi-Courtney said: “The concessionaire has created eight temporary trailer parks along the expressway to take heavy trucks off the road shoulders, but drivers still park carelessly along the road.

“You will recollect that the concessionaire has offered to build permanent trailer parks on the road, which could have solved the problem, but the move did not receive the support of the Ogun State government through the acquisition of land.”

German hostage found dead after bloody raid on terrorists in Kano

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GERMAN hostage was killed by his captors yesterday in

Kano.

Edgar Raupach, an engineer, was an employee of Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company. He was abducted on January 26, but his whereabouts were unknown until yesterday when his hand-cuffed body, riddled with bullets, was found after a raid on the hideout of suspected terrorists by security agents.

Also yesterday, Italy’s Foreign ministry reportedly confirmed the abduction of an Italian engineer in Kwara State.

Sources close to Bukavu Barracks headquarters of 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Kano, said Raupach died alongside four others, three of whom were suspected to be

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

militants. A woman was among those killed, it was gathered.

The raid occurred at Danbare, Rijiyar Zaki quarters in Kano early yesterday when a rescue team of soldiers from Kaduna and Kano stormed the area.

There was stampede as guns boomed.

Residents reported hearing explosions and gunfire around 6:00 am, lasting more than 30 minutes, and said it appeared several hundred soldiers were involved along with trucks and armoured vehicles.

The military said in a statement that the raid was ordered based on intelligence that “senior commanders of the terrorist elements” were meeting.

But they did not mention the terrorists. However, the Boko Haram sect and the Joint Task Force (JTF) men have clashed repeatedly in some parts of the North including Kano.

“On sighting the security forces, the terrorist elements opened fire and threw Improvised Explosive Devises on the security forces. The security forces responded immediately, resulting in a gun duel that lasted for about 30 minutes.

During the encounter five of the terrorists were killed.

“Upon search of the premises, the security forces found the hand cuffed gruesomely murdered corpse of an expatriate, later identified as the German national, Mr Egdar, who was kidnapped since January 26, 2012 along Zaria bye pass Kano. The German was apparently killed by

the terrorists on noticing the security forces.

“During a further search of the terrorists’ hideout, the security forces recovered 2 AK 47 rifles, huge quantity of ammunition, 36 hand grenade and Improvised Explosive Devices stored by the terrorists for possible attack against innocent persons and security personnel.

“The JTF would want to reassure members of the international community and the general public of the determination of the security forces to protect lives and property of law abiding citizens. We also continue to thank the good people of Kano for their co-operation by providing prompt information to the security agencies bordering on public safety.”

An AFP correspondent visited the house and reported seeing the ground splattered with

blood and human remains in one area.

Its walls were bullet-riddled and blackened from explosions. Its roof was destroyed.

A spokeswoman for Germany’s Foreign ministry could not confirm the hostage’s death, but said the embassy in Nigeria and a crisis team had been mobilised.

The hostage’s death marked the second such incident in Nigeria. An Italian and a British taken hostage, were killed in Sokoto, following a botched attempt to rescue them.

In March, security forces faced criticism after a failed bid

to rescue an Italian and a British hostage.

Their captors killed them before Nigerian forces could rescue them in a joint operation with British security forces.

The late Edgar was kidnapped in January while inspecting a bridge under construction at the Western Byepass. Two men holding guns reportedly emerged from an Opel Omega car and abducted him after allegedly putting him in hand cuffs and dumping him inside the trunk of the car. They were said to have sped towards Zaria.

CORRECTION The caption for the photograph on page 10 of yesterday’s edition should have read” Dr. Babalakin (right) with ViceChairman, Chief Kola Akinbami and Chairman, Organising Committee Mrs Yosola Popoola and not Mrs Yosola Popoola Awoniyi at the media briefing in Ikeja Lagos…yesterday

ADVERT HOTLINES: 01-280668, 08070591302, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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NEWS Ignoring illiterates a threat to development, says Wike

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INISTER of State for Education Ezenwo Nyesom Wike yesterday said the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan administration will increase its investment in changing the status of illiterates.

The minister spoke in Abuja while inaugurating the Technical Committee for the 2012 National Mass Literacy Campaign.

He said to ignore the huge population of illiterate Nigerians would pose a serious threat to the country’s economic development efforts.

Wike said the need for the improvement of the literacy level in the country is borne out of the desire of the administration to involve the people in the development process.

Wike said: “In a country where large numbers of young people for different reasons have limited access to quality basic education, the resulting poverty, unemployment and sense of hopelessness can act as forceful recruiting agents for youths to be involved in all forms of social

vices. This is unacceptable to the present administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.

“It is in the light of the above that I approved the setting up of a broad based technical committee made up of officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, other relevant parastatals and organisations to plan and facilitate the implementation of the national mass literacy Launch”.

The minister outlined four terms of reference for the committee: to organise the national mass literacy launch, to invite notable Nigerians and corporate organisations to support the launch, to encourage stakeholders in developing a wide range of partnerships across all sectors of Nigeria and to encourage the private sector and non governmental organisations to participate in the national mass literacy campaign.

Executive Secretary of the National National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non Formal Education, Jibrin Paiko com-

•Wike (middle), Paiko (left) and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. Ben Ibe...yesterday

mended the Federal Government for its commitment to improve the level of literacy.

Paiko, who is the chairman of the technical committee, said government alone cannot fund the

programmes and structures to provide functional literacy and lifeskills to target groups.

WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY 2012

Tobacco giants undermining public health, say UN, WHO •Urge govts, civil society to checkmate industry

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HE World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) yesterday said tobacco giants undermine public health.

The WHO, at an event in Geneva, Switzerland to mark the World No Tobacco Day, accused tobacco giants of stalling efforts to implement the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), a global treaty with 175 countries as parties.

The WHO, in a statement made available to The Nation, said tobacco giants have stepped up efforts to prevent tobacco control laws, thus paving way for annual death toll from tobacco use to soar to over six million world- wide.

WHO Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan said: “In recent years, multinational tobacco companies have been shamelessly fuelling a series of legal actions against governments that have been at the forefront of the war against tobacco. The industry is now stepping out of the shadows and into court rooms. We must now stand together with these governments that have had the courage to do the right thing to protect their citizens.”

Chan called on national leaders to be extra vigilant against the increasingly aggressive attacks by the tobacco industry, which undermine policies that protect people from the harms of tobacco.

Director of WHO’s Tobacco Free Initiative Dr Douglas Bettcher said: “National leaders need to resist these tactics and use the full force of the Convention to protect the hard won gains to safeguard people’s health from the scourge of tobacco.”

The WHO statement reads: “ The tobacco industry however, is hard at work to undermine the treaty, including taking governments to court. In fact, the governments of Australia, Norway and Uruguay are currently battling tobacco industry law suits in their national courts. “In line with article 5.3 countries should, among other measures: limit interactions and disclose all meetings with the tobacco industry; reject partnerships and non-binding agreements with the industry; refuse funds and other support, and reject industry endorsement and participation in youth initiatives.

“In addition, countries should not grant incentives, privileges or ben-

Activists urge Jonathan to sign National Tobacco Control Bill

A

S the world marked the World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) yesterday, activists made a passionate plea to President Goodluck Jonathan: sign the National Tobacco Control Bill (NTCB) to prevent avoidable death from tobacco use.

They said statistics show rising deaths from tobacco use because of lax tobacco control regime.

The Environmental Rights Action (ERA), at an event to mark the WNTD in Lagos, said tobacco companies are interfering with the Bill becoming an Act. Its Director, Corporate Accountability and Administration, Mr Akibode Oluwafemi, said this year theme: Tobacco Industry Interference is in line with the current development in Nigeria.

He said the president has disobeyed the 1999 Constitution in his handling of the Bill.

He quoted Chapter five, Section 68, sub-section 4 and 5 of the constitution, which states: “Where a bill is presented to the President for assent, he shall within 30 days thereof signify that he assents or that he withholds assent.

“Where the President withholds his assent and the bill is again passed by each Legislative House by two-thirds majority, the bill shall become law and the assent of the President shall not be required.”

Oluwafemi said there is the need for the country to domesticate the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), adding that the Convention’s Article 5.3 states that “in setting and implementing their public health policies with respect to tobacco control, parties shall act to protect these policies from commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry in accorBy Olukorede Yishau

efits to the tobacco industry, such as subsidies or tax exemptions, and should create firewalls against the interference of the tobacco industry in public health, including Stateowned tobacco companies.

“Tobacco kills up to half its users.

By 2030, WHO estimates that tobacco will kill more than 8 million people every year, with four out of five of these deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries.

“Tobacco is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardio-vascular disease, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. NCDs account for 63% of all deaths worldwide “In nonsmokers, exposure to secondhand smoke is estimated to kill another 600 000 people annually.

Almost half of all children regularly

By Wale Adepoju

dance with national law.”

This, he said, means that the tobacco giants should be excluded from any step to implement public health policies.

He alleged that top executives of tobacco companies paid visits to Aso Rock during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Oluwafemi quoted the World Health Assembly’s (WHA’s) resolution 18 on transparency in tobacco control process: “The tobacco industry has operated for years with the express intention of subverting the role of government and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in implementing public health policies to combat the tobacco epidemic.”

He said the major motive of the tobacco giants is to weaken and undermine the country’s laws.

Oluwafemi said despite the ban on tobacco advertising, most of the tobacco companies still freely display their adverts in public places, such as hotels .

He said: “They paste posters on stalls announcing freecamera phone promotion and offered free umbrellas to market women with adverts on them.”

ERA’s partner, Corporate Accountability International (CAI), has released its yearly report on tobacco entitled Cutting through the smoke. The report describes the global stories of industry abuse, grassroots victories and the path towards a healthier future.

It said families have continued to suffer the devastating health, financial and social consequences of tobaccorelated diseases.

breathe air polluted by tobacco smoke and more than 40 per cent of children have at least one smoking parent. In 2004, children accounted for nearly one third of deaths attributable to secondhand smoke.

“Most adult smokers started the habit before the age 20. To recruit new smokers, the industry’s relentless marketing machinery targets youth, especially young women.”

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, in a statement, said tobacco giants are becoming aggressive in their quest to kill tobacco control legislations.

He urged governments and teh civil society to checkmate the tobacco giants.

The UN Secretary-General statement reads: ”This year's World No Tobacco Day comes at a time when the tobacco industry is taking ever

more aggressive steps to undermine efforts to reduce the global menace of tobacco. While governments and the international health community try to implement effective measures to contain tobacco use and protect the health of people, their efforts are being aggressively opposed by an industry whose products kill people.

"Tobacco kills by causing cancer, heart disease and respiratory diseases. It is one of the leading preventable risk factors for non-communicable diseases. Every year, about 5 million people die because they use tobacco. Another 600,000 people die from exposure to second-hand smoke.

"Tobacco takes a pervasive, heavy toll. It hinders development and worsens poverty. Tobacco and poverty create a vicious circle since

•Dr. Chan

it is the poor who smoke most and bear the brunt of the economic and disease burden of tobacco use.

Money spent on tobacco cannot be used to pay for food, education and health care. And tobacco use is growing fastest in low-income countries that are least equipped to deal with its consequences. " The world has established effective tools to fight tobacco use and protect public health policies from being diluted by the tobacco industry. The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control -- with 174 Parties -- became one of the most rapidly embraced treaties in United Nations history after it entered into force in 2005. In the Political Declaration adopted at the High Level Meeting on Non-communicable Diseases last year, the international community reiterated its determination to reduce tobacco consumption and availability. " Tobacco control is essential to achieving our global development goals. If we do not step up our efforts to control it, tobacco could kill up to one billion people this century. The interests of the tobacco industry and of public health are directly opposed.

"On this observance of World No Tobacco Day, I urge all governments and civil society to prevent the tobacco industry from derailing the implementation of the Framework Convention. Let us resist the industry's attacks and pursue our vision of a tobacco-free world."

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

6

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Pastor arraigned for alleged robbery

By Fisayo Ige

A 45 YEAR-OLD Pastor, Adekanmbi Matthew and Sekou Kareem, 38, have been arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate's Court in Lagos Island for alleged robbery.

Kareem, a tailor, is said to be a citizen of Benin Republic.

Prosecuting Sergeant Philip Osijale, said the accused were allegedly found with guns and other dangerous weapons when arrested. He alleged that the accused were arrested for robbing Mrs Josephine Bosun of her Honda City Saloon car with registration No. LD629AAA. The accused were charged with armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms. The offences, Osijale said, are punishable under Sections 6(b) and 1(2)(a)&(b) of the Robbery and firearms (Special Provision) Act Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2011. Their pleas were not taken as the court has no jurisdiction to hear the matter.

Magistrate F.O Aigbokhaevbo remanded them in prison custody, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). The matter was adjourned to June 29.

Ransome-Kuti Lecture holds

By Precious Igbonwelundu

THE Seventh Olikoye RansomeKuti Lecture holds today, at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos.

The theme of the lecture, which is organised by Women's Health and Action Research Centre (WHARC) and the family of the late Prof Ransome-Kuti, is: "Preventing maternal deaths in Nigeria: Looking back and looking forward." It will be delivered by Emeritus Prof. Kelsey Harrison, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt.

Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko is expected to chair the event. Health Minister Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu and Chairman, Nigeria Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) Prof Lateef Salako, among others are also expected.

Suspected cable thief arraigned THIRTY-TWO YEAR-OLD Scott Ijiegor was yesterday arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate's Court for allegedly stealing High Voltage Cables valued N1 million, property of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).

Prosecuting Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Felix Ifijen said the accused on May 25, at 5pm around Goshen Beach Estate, Eti-Osa, Lagos, wilfully and maliciously damaged PHCN cables. The accused, he said, was caught by Badmus Salami, and handed over to the police.

The accused pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge of stealing, which contravened Sections 388 and 285(5)(e) of the Criminal Code Laws of Lagos, 2011.

Presiding Magistrate A.F.O. Botoku granted the accused N500,000 bail with two sureties whose addresses must be verified.

The case was further adjourned to June 22.

•Governor Fashola (middle) with Alhaji Jakande (3rd right). Watching from left are Deputy Governor Mrs Orelope-Adefulire, Osun State Governor, Aregbesola, the Speaker, Hon. Ikuforiji, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Inumidun Akande and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

We must adhere to rule of law, says Tambuwal PEAKER of House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal has reiterated the need to adhere to the rule of law, saying this is the only way the country can make meaningful progress.

Tambuwal said this yesterday, at the opening of the Lagos State House of Assembly's new legislative chamber, pointing out that it is the duty of the legislature to continue to hold the executive accountable to the people.

He noted that the bane of our progress as a nation in the past, was the inability of political leaders to understand that every political office holder is answerable to the people, who voted them into office, adding that, a culture of impunity, engendered by long years of military rule, has made it difficult for those who occupy elective offices to understand that the legislature has certain inalienable rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

He said: "We must learn to follow the rule of law, if this country is to make any meaningful progress. It is the duty of the legislature to continue to hold the executive accountable to the people.

We must ensure that the benefits inherent in our democracy reach the people who fought so hard to entrench it.

"We take democracy for granted at our peril. We must prove to our people that a people's government is the best option out there if

S

• Tambuwal CFR (2nd right), cutting the tape yesterday. Watching from right are Governor Fashola, Asiwaju Tinubu (middle), Ikuforiji and Inuwa. Inset: The new chamber.

PHOTOS: OMOSEHIN MOSES

By Oziegbe Okoeki

we want to keep their support. And the only proof our people will accept is an improvement in their standard of livelihood. This translates to better security, better infrastructure, less poverty and good jobs," said he.

Commending the new chamber, the number four citizen said "I can't think of a better gift in celebration of our democracy or in marking 45 years of the creation of this state than a building dedicated for the law making process.

"It is true that Lagos State has had many outstanding administrators, and has become a beacon of hope for people determined to excel in their chosen fields. It is a place where any hard working, law abiding and enterprising citizen can hope to reach the zenith of his profession without any type of discrimination.

"Lagosians are fiercely democratic and are always willing to

go to any length to defend their freedoms as we have seen fairly recently. I am not surprised therefore that they chose to honour the one arm of government that is truly representative of the people," the Speaker stated.

He however, urged the state lawmaker to take advantage of the new edifice to churn out bills that will stand the test of time, saying their job has been made a little easier now "and you have even less excuse if you don't perform well," he added.

Speaking at the event, the National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and former Governor of the state, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu challenged the National Assembly to ensure that the autonomy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is protected.

According to him, "the stability of this country will depend on how much we value and defend our institutions. We must not decapitate

LAGOS EMERGENCY LINES STATE AGENCIES 1. Fire and Safety Services Control Room Phone Nos: 01-7944929; 080-33235892; 4. KAI Brigade Phone Nos: 080-33235890; 080-23321770; 080-56374036.

080-23036632; 0805-5284914 3. LASTMA Emergency Numbers: Head office Phone Nos: 2. Federal Road Safety Corps 01-4703325; 01-7743026 080-75005411; 080-60152462 (FRSC) 5.

Rapid Response Squad (RRS) 080-23111742; 080-29728371 Lagos Zonal Command Phone Phone Nos: 070-55350249; 080-23909364; 080-77551000 No:080-33706639; 01-7742771 070-35068242 01-7904983 Sector Commander Phone No: 080-79279349; 080-63299264

070-55462708; 080-65154338 767 or email: rapidresponsesquad@yahoo.com 6. Health Services – LASAMBUS Ambulance Services Phone Nos: 01-4979844; 01-4979866; 01-4979899; 01-4979888; 01-2637853-4; 080-33057916; 080-33051918-9; 080-29000003-5.

our institutions. The legislature has created stability to make this country a pride," Tinubu said.

While pointing out that the country still experiences executive recklessness, the ACN leader challenged the legislature to from time to time check the excesses of the executive arm of government.

On his part, the state governor, Babatunde Fashola said the Lagos House of Assembly is fully autonomous of the executive and self accounting. He explained that the new chamber belongs to the people, because their tax was used to build it.

Others who witnessed the opening of the chamber included the Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, who had earlier been honoured as a member of the House, Deputy Governor of Lagos, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senators, members of the House of Representatives and top Lagos State government officials.

Former Governor of the state Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, former Senator, Olorunimbe Mamora, ACN chieftains including the State Chairman of the party, Chief Henry Ajomale, National Publicity Secretary of the party, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, traditional rulers and a host of Speakers of State Assemblies led by their Chairman and Speaker of Gombe State House of Assembly, Mohammed Inuwa, were also in attendance.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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Lagos can accommodate 40m people, says Fashola

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AGOS State can accommodate no fewer than 40 million people if basic infrastructure are enhanced, Governor Babatunde Fashola has said.

The government, he said, would be accelerating the development of infrastructure to enable it cope with the projected growth.

He spoke at a conference on African Development entitled: "Managing Africa's urban transformation," organised by The Economist.

He assured investors of his administration's commitment to realising the objective as it is aimed at boosting the state's economy.

By Miriam Ndikanwu

To cope with the population, he said, government is determined to continue to pursue all developmental initiatives and infrastructural renewal projects through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The conference, which attracted business and financial experts, mayors, and economists worldwide, borders on the prospect and challenges of population growth for African nations in the emerging world economy.

Fashola urged investors to tap into opportunities provided by the population upsurge and contribute

to the state's growing economy.

He said collaboration between government and the private sector on roads, education, environment, water supply and transportation has improved the living condition of the over 20 million residents of the state.

Fashola said: "Lagos can accommodate about 40 million people; we are planning towards that by building upwards rather than sideways. We are improving on the infrastructure through PPP initiative. We have recorded some success in that regards which can be seen from the LagosAjah-Epe expressway."

Mr David Frame, Managing Director of South Energyx Nigeria Limited, the developers of the Eko Atlantic City, said the proposed city would accommodate about 400,000 people and provide job opportunities for over 150,000 others in fast foods, transportation, housing, banking, tourism, hotels and other sectors.

"I see Lagos as the future city of Africa. There will be a lot of opportunities when the Atlantic City is finally created. It is clear that Lagos is the city of entrepreneurs; people can make use of the opportunities that abound here," Frame said.

LAGBUS extends service to Yaba

By Yinka Aderibigbe

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• From left: Mr Igho, Acting Director Regulatory and Monitoring, Mr Henry Uwadiwe, Assistant Director Coordinator, Lagos Zonal Office, Mr Obi Iregbu, Account Director, Gning and Assistant Director, Admin., Babatunde Balogun inspecting the cars... Wednesday PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

Lottery Commission hails firm over promo

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HE National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has praised telecommunication giant MTN for steps taken, on its forthcoming promotions.

NLRC Director-General Mr Peter Igho, led some reporters and NLRC officials to Lekki on Wednesday, to inspect cars procured by MTN for the promo.

The promo will see MTN subscribers winning a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) daily for 100 days.

Igho expressed satisfaction with what he saw on ground, noting MTN has met the criteria set by the commission.

According to him, the inspection becomes necessary to ascertain the authenticity of MTN's claim.

"We have had in the past whereby companies would announce

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

promotions through lottery only to defraud Nigerians with makeshift arrangement, but we are saying no to such illegal actions, hence our reason for being here today," he told reporters.

The Director-General said gone are the days when companies would trick Nigerians into promotion by lottery only to discover that it is fake after collecting lots of money from the people.

The commission, is out to ensure fair play and transparency in the lottery business. Lottery, according to him, is used by advanced nations for national development. He wondered why the same should not be applicable to Nigeria. Igho warned that, henceforth, any company involved in dubious act under the

Ice Prince makes BBC Radio 1 LATEAU State born Ice Prince line-up P along with Jay Z, Rihanna, Nas, Wretch 32 and D'Banj, among others, will feature in the biggest ever free ticketed event in London - BBC Radio 1 Hackney weekender. Ice Prince is billed to perform his smash hit single, Magician with Gyptian.

The Hackney weekender, which will be the highlight of the London 2012 festival will take place between June 23 and 24. It will feature six stages and over 80 international and UK acts.

Being the first artiste to have his debut single 'Oleku' play listed on BBC Radio 1xtra, Ice Prince will be performing on the 1xtra stage

headlined by Nas. "To be given the opportunity to perform on such a stage with some of my icons is exciting and a blessing. I feel very privileged and definitely looking forward to performing with Gyptian," says Ice Prince. Ice Prince, 25, has made an impact on the African music industry. Having signed to the award winning music label Chocolate City Music, home to some of the biggest musicians in Africa: M.I, Jesse Jagz and Brymo in 2008, Ice Prince has gone on to achieve fame.

guise of lottery would face the wrath of the law.

"The law is there to address the issue of defaulters and we will not hesitate to implement it to the letter," he said.

Souleymane Gning, official of Upstream System, which is collaborating with MTN on the project, promised that the promo would be transparent.

"We are an IT firm working with MTN on the way to select the winners through draws. The promo is hinged on two things - knowledge and luck. Interested Nigerians must answer some questions having subscribed to gain more points and pray that their numbers a picked during the draws.

You may have 1,000 points and someone with 200 points got picked. That's where luck plays key role," Gning said.

HE management of LAGBUS Asset Management, owners of LAGBUS, has extended its services to Yaba and environs to ease commuters’ pains.

Speaking at the launch of the Murtala Muhammed Way dedicated corridor and the opening of LAGBUS Bus Franchise Scheme at Yaba, Governor Babatunde Fashola said the initiative was part of government's efforts to reduce traffic gridlock along the axis.

Fashola, who described the scheme as another promise kept, said his administration is determined to ease transportation challenges of the commuters, adding that a dedicated bus line has been constructed by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure from Yaba through Oyingbo to Idumota.

The governor appealed to the franchise operators to provide first class service, stressing that government's intention is to make life better and easier for Lagosians.

He said the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) scheme has become a model not only in Nigeria, but other parts of Africa, adding that LAGBUS would soon extend its services to Badagry and other parts of the state.

Earlier, LAGBUS' Managing Director Mr. Babatunde Disu, said the injection of more buses would improve service.

He added that LAGBUS has licensed 20 franchisees to run their own buses under the LAGBUS Franchise Scheme, stressing that they were selected after a rigorous screening. Disu said government would spare no efforts at ensuring that bus services in Lagos migrate from the present chaotic situation to a "safe, regulated and scheduled service."

The high point of the event was the handing over of plaques and certificates to the seven new franchisees by the governor. The franchise operators include; Mutual Model Transport; FAB-REM Project International; Adonis Authentic Global Link and NURTW Transport Company.

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• Ice Prince

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Man arrested for wife beating Stories by Precious Igbonwelundu

THE Police have arrested one Bamidele Owojori, 37, of 9, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, for allegedly beating up his wife, Abisola. Mrs Owojori had alleged that her husband threatened to beat her to death and marry another woman if she refused to leave his house.

It was gathered that the couple quarrelled after the woman, who went to her mother with the children against her husband's wish, returned home. In anger, the descended on her for disobeying him. Owojori was said to have severely beaten his wife, who is breastfeeding a baby, injuring her on the neck and left hand. She was hospitalised for five days.

The matter was charged to court and her husband pleaded not guilty to the one-count charge of assault, which contravened Section 171 of the Criminal Code Laws of Lagos, 2011.

He was granted N50,000 bail by Magistrate A.A. Famobiwo, who adjourned the case to June 4.

Magistrate berates Police A LAGOS Magistrate Mrs. M.B. Folami, berated the Nigerian Police officers for truncating the course of justice.

Reacting to a criminal charge against one Gbolahan Sowemimo, which she struck out, Folami wondered why a case for which her court lacks jurisdiction had to be brought before her.

The charge alleged that the accused had on May 17, behaved in a manner likely to cause breach of peace, by taking the picture of one Joseph Sowemimo's house, thereby committing an offence under Section 249(d) of the Criminal Code Laws of Lagos State 2003.

Mrs Folami said the Investigating Police Officer (IPO), ought to have known that such cases are tried by the high court, but decided to hide under Section 249(d) which was a breach of peace.

She said: "This matter should be taken to the high court, because, it is more about property belonging to Mr. Sowemimo, who is father to both the complainant and accused."

Mrs Folami had earlier queried IPOs in other matters before her, for their care free attitude towards their job, even as she called on senior officers to intervene so that the efforts of the state government's judicial reforms shall not be in vain.

"This is justice, if I am reckless as some of them, I will end up not delivering justice. Most of them bring heresay, no investigation, no exhibit. How can an IPO bring a matter involving the use of weapons like mortal and pestle, but could not provide exhibits?” she queried.

Guard docked for allegedly robbing ex-deputy governor

HE Police have arraigned a 28-year old man, Monday Abu, before an Igbosere Magistrate's Court, Lagos, for allegedly stealing aluminium roofing sheets belonging to a former Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Adebisi Omoyeni.

Abu, was charged with conspiracy and stealing before Magistrate J.A. Adegun. He pleaded not guilty to the charge said to contravene Sections 409 and 285 of the Criminal Code Laws of Lagos, 2011.

He was alleged to have, with another fellow who is still at large, on May 22, around 7pm at 5, Waziri Ibrahim Street, Victoria Island, stolen 30ft by 40ft aluminium sheets already

By Precious Igbonwelundu

fixed on a building under construction.

Abu, a security guard at the house, was arrested after he failed to give satisfactory account of how the sheets disappeared when Omoyeni visited the place and realised that the roofs were missing.

The accused, claimed he was off duty on the day. He claimed he had no money, was hungry and had gone in search of his brother to lend him some money when the incident happened.

The accused was granted N20,000 bail, with two sureties in the like sum. The case was adjourned to June 29.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

8

NEWS

UNILAG VC Sofoluwe buried omiums amid encomiums

By Adegunle Olugbamila

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HE University of Lagos (UNILAG), which has been renamed Moshood Abiola University, stood still yesterday as its 10th Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, was buried at the Ikoyi Cemetery amid encomiums.

The remains of the professor of Computer Science were on display at the university’s Sports Centre for the university community to pay their last respects.

Sofoluwe died of heart attack on May 12. He was 62.

Some of the workers and students wept profusely as they bade to their former Vice-Chancellor, who was dressed in his academic gown, a final farewell.

A funeral service was held at All Saints’ Chuch, Yaba, Lagos Mainland, where family members, friends and guests prayed for the repose of his soul.

Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) and his Ekiti State counterpart, Dr Kayode Fayemi, led the dignitaries at the service.

Others included Delta State Deputy Governor, Prof Amos Utuama (SAN), a former Minister of Petroleum, Don Etiebet and Eko Hospital chief, Dr Sunny Kuku.

Many students attended the service.

Security personnel had a hectic time controlling the surging crowd, especially the students.

The late Sofoluwe’s son, Jide, read the scripture, taken from Romans 8:28-39.

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi; Delta State Deputy Governor Amos Utuama; wife of Lagos State governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola; Lagos State Governor abatunde Fashola (SAN); wife of UNILAG Acting Vice-Chancellor, Mrs Bello; Acting ViceChancellor, Prof Rahamoni Ade Bello, at the funeral service for the late Prof Sofoluwe at All Saints Church, Yaba, Lagos..yesterday.

•The widow, Dr Funmilayo Sofoluwe...yesterday.

PHOTO:OMOSEHIN MOSES

In his sermon, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland (Anglican Communion), Prof Adebayo Akinde, urged everyone to embrace humility, kindness, courteousness, dedication and hard work, among other virtues the late Sofoluwe epitomised.

In the sermon entitled: What are we living for? Rev. Akinde noted that the world would be a better place if everybody was like Sofoluwe.

The cleric said man’s quest for power and material things is a misplaced propriety.

According to him, God always wants man to first seek His grace while He provides man’s needs.

He said: “Some people are looking for power without

realising that God says, ‘All power in heavens and the earth belong to me’. Some are looking for wealth without realising that God says, ‘What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?’

“Toks (Prof Sofoluwe) left indelible marks on all those that crossed his path. His humility, selflessness, kindness and generosity are all virtues encapsulated in his desire to make heaven…”

Rev. Akinde warned leaders and others in positions of authority to take a cue from the late Sofoluwe, whom he described as “a humble and dedicated man, an unequalled academic who demystified the Office of the Vice-Chancellor”.

The CMS Grammar School Old Boys’ Association sang a

G-7 states hold emergency security meeting in Abuja

those dazzling moves that put UNILAG entrusted in his care, far ahead of the pack,” the members wrote.

The Vice-Chancellor of DeMontford University, Leicester, United Kingdom, Prof Dominic Shellord, described the late Sofoluwe as a man with passion for academic and one who inspired the workers on exchange programmes to the university.

“Prof Sofoluwe was held in high esteem by all our workers, who have visited UNILAG and met with him.

We were deeply encouraged by the strong spirit of collaboration which he held to foster between our two universities,” Prof Shellord said.

The Association of African

University, in their tribute, said: “The continent of Africa, Nigeria, the professors of academic peers and distinguished scientists have lost one of our best who had distinguished himself in computer science, academia and general management.

Soochow University, China, wrote: “We are greatly shocked and in great sorrow on hearing the sudden death of Professor Adetokunbo Sofoluwe. We still can’t believe we have such a nice person, a good partner and a great friend.”

A club, comprising senior workers of the university, Octogon ‘90, in which Sofoluwe was a member, also bade him farewell.

Insecurity: NYSC won’t exclude volatile states from scheme, says DG

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

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HE G-7 states yesterday convened an emergency security meeting in Abuja to assess the impact of security challenges among their members.

The joint security meeting of the six neighbouring states of the FCT is the seventh to be held since its inauguration in 2007.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Bal Muhammed welcomed the contingents from the member states of Nasarawa, Niger, Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, Kogi and the FCT. The minister said the previous meeting in February took far-reaching decisions on how to tackle the surge in crime and criminality in member-states.

He said: “At the meeting, our discussions centred on integrated strategies that would enable us address the challenges of our time. We had examined the issues of crime prevention rather than control, information gathering and sharing public enlightenment as well as the provision of adequate logistic s for crime prevention and control.

“Our meeting today is to assess how far we have fared in implementing those lofty decisions and how to examine the impact of our actions on the security situations in our states and the FCT.” Muhammed noted that besides the recent bomb attacks, the member-states have provided the resources needed to tackle insecurity and prepare against eventualities.

Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, who chaired the occasion, said there was need for security agencies to shun institutional rivalry.

farewell song as they danced round the casket, bearing the professor’s body.

The pupils, in the school’s uniform, accompanied the men playing musical instruments.

Tributes have been pouring in for the late professor.

In a brochure published by UNILAG and containing some of the tributes to Sofoluwe, The Old Grammarians Society (‘63/ ’69 set) described the late Sofoluwe as a forthright man with a clear cut vision for the university.

“Sophosco (Sofoluwe) was a man of vision; he was endowed with curiosity and clarity of thought, forthrightness and unending quest for excellence. He displayed sagacity in those moves that make the difference;

From Yusuf Alli and Yomi Odunuga, Abuja

•Brig-Gen Okore-Affia

T

HE Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Nnamdi OkoreAffia, yesterday said no state can be excluded from the scheme, despite the high level insecurity in some parts of the country.

He said the NYSC would demand security guarantee from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for corps members that will participate in next month’s governorship election in Edo

State.

Okore-Affia, who spoke at a leadership forum of the Nigerian Pilot in Abuja, said the NYSC is already being proactive in protecting corps members in its deployment strategy and by establishing a Distress Call Centre.

He said: “Nigeria has 36 states, plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). By our mandate, we must post corps members to every state of the federation, whether good or bad. However, we have reduced the number of corps members to those states with security challenge and they are deployable within the state capital and one or two local government areas.

“We do not post corps members in such states to farflung areas. We will not de-

liberately send people to violence prone areas.”

The NYSC chief said the scheme has established a Distress Call Centre for corps members facing security challenges or any form of hazards.

Okore-Affia said: “Building on the sad event of March-April 2011, we have set up a Distress Call Centre. Every corps member is expected to provide details and where he or she is living, after leaving orientation camp.

Once there is an distress, the details are reflected at the call centre and we will quickly inform relevant security agencies.

“So far, we have not had any call; rather, we have only received calls of financial distress.”

Notwithstanding, he said cops members, especially female, would henceforth un-

dergo a martial art training to enable them resist molestation.

He added: “If they have the training and they are faced with any challenging situation, they know what to do before the deed is done. With the training, these corps members will no longer be helpless victims.

“I was amazed at the enthusiasm from female corps members for the training. It is better to possess a skill and not need it than desperately need it without having it.”

On Edo governorship poll, Okore-Affia said the NYSC might seek a waiver from INEC, if the security of corps members, who will serve as Ad Hoc workers, is not guaranteed.

He said: “We are working with INEC, but we want as much as possible to ensure that the security cover for corps members will have verifiable guarantee.

PDP challenges opposition parties to public debate on performance

T

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday challenged opposition parties to public debates on national development and project inspection.

A statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, said the debates would afford the participants the opportunity to compare the achievements of the states under the party with those under opposition parties.

Rehashing the purported achievements by the PDP-

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

controlled Federal Government as enunciated by President Goodluck Jonathan in his Democracy Day broadcast, Metuh challenged opposition parties to fault the claims.

He said: “President Jonathan’s Democracy Day address to the nation chronicled the giant strides taken by the PDP-led government in all sectors of the nation’s life. But while the President is doing all

that is humanly possible to ensure stability within the polity, the opposition leaders are constantly sowing seeds of discord.

“Despite the opposition’s antagonism towards the PDP, the entire world has acknowledged that our democracy is now stable, strong and firm. Its future is bright. Yet, in their desperation and desire to destroy the reputation of the PDP, some leaders of the opposition parties are turning into prophets of doom. They are

promising us brimstone and fire, if they fail in their quest to acquire power. We will not allow them to derail our democracy. As President Jonathan said in his May 29 address, we will not treat the success we have recorded with our democratic experience with levity.”

Accusing opposition parties of failing to proffer alternative solutions to the nation’s challenges, the PDP spokesman challenged them to provide alternative solutions to the problems.

Metuh said: “We challenge the opposition to rise beyond name calling to the submission of alternative solutions, which is an essential role for the opposition as a shadow government.

Let the opposition take us to task on perceived points of deficiency with brilliant alternatives and demonstrate to Nigerians that their ultimate goal is to contribute towards the growth of the country rather than the pursuit of a sinister agenda.

“No sincere Nigerian can deny that when President

Jonathan assumed office last year, there were fears about political and economic instability in the nation. But through a set of priority policies, programmes and projects encapsulated in PDP’s Transformation Agenda, today, Nigeria’s economic and political ratings are very positive.”

According to him, the commitment of the PDP-led administration to the transformation of the economy remains strong and unwavering.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

9

10

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

NEWS Tokyo urges Ajimobi to respect court rulings

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

THE Chairman of the Oyo State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Lateef Akinsola (aka Tokyo), who was reinstated by a court, has urged Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi to respect the court verdict on the crisis rocking the union.

Tokyo expressed shock that the union’s National President, Alhaji Najeem Yasin, announced 1a 4-man Caretaker Committee for the state union after a meeting with Ajimobi on Wednesday.

The embattled union leader described the action as illegal and a contempt of court.

He urged the union members not to take the law into their hands, saying it is a legal matter.

Tokyo said: “The committee is unconstitutional. I believe this illegality cannot last.

Governor Ajimobi should respect rule of law having benefitted from two separates court judgments on his dual Nationality...”

Reps demand report on $120m mining loan expenditure

T

HE House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals yesterday requested the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Musa Sada, to submit to the House a report on the expenditure of the $120million (about N18.6billion) World Bank mining loan under the Sustainable Management of Mineral Resources Project (SMMRP) that closed yesterday.

The request came on the heels of the disagreement between the Deputy Chairman of the committee, Peter Edeh, and the minister over why the Federal Government was unable to secure an additional $80million funding from the World Bank.

According to Sada, who was responding to the committee’s question during an oversight

•Minister explains why World Bank denies Nigeria loan From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

function in his office in Abuja, the ministry was “not able to convince the World Bank to provide another loan”.

He added: “They are asking us to provide sustainability and they don’t see the government providing sustainability.

So, they can’t continue. There are challenges that the government has to do. We lost the value for continuation, so we have to start afresh.”

But Edeh, who refused to accept the minister’s explanation, said the World Bank did not grant additional loan because about 50 per cent of the Artisanal and Small Miners, who were due to benefit from the $10million earmarked for

them as grant, did no benefit.

Sada told the committee that the World Bank’s representatives were always in the country for terminal assessment but that the project’s expenditure was satisfactory.

He noted that the beneficiaries were verified by a panel and that the fund was released according to the limit of the World Bank’s stipulation on cash limit for community development, provision of mining equipment and others.

The committee members directed the ministry to present the report on the loan expenditure to them.

Sada said despite the winding down of the World Bank project yesterday, “we have to plan with the resources avail-

able to us and the ministry will not close down”.

The committee Chairman, Hassan Mohammed Isah, said funding of the ministry is very minimal. He said the committee would address the challenge.

Sada, who alleged that there has been revenue leakage from the sector, added that iron ore and other minerals have been disappearing from Nigeria.

The minister assured that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other relevant agencies always denied having knowledge of the stealing of minerals from the boarders.

He said the ministry has got President Goodluck Jonathan’s approval for the establish-

ment of a Mines Surveillance Task Force, which will include officials of the State Security Service (SSS), the Nigeria Police and others.

The minister said there is always corroboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to arrest the financial leakage in the sector.

Sada also added that the only revenue government gets from mining is from royalties and fees from mining titles.

He explained that for State Government to generate much revenue from mining they could their investment companies could venture into the business and make a fortune.

Oyo Assembly passes bill From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

THE Oyo State House of Assembly yesterday passed into law the bill establishing the Office of the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA) in the 33 local government areas of the state.

This followed the May 17 resolution of the Assembly that the Joint Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and Public Petitions and Judiciary, consider the bill and report back to the Assembly.

The bill, which was presented at the plenary by the Chairman of the Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Femi Adelakun, stipulates that the HLA would replace the Director of Personnel Management (DPM), who is the former Head of the workers and a signatory to the account of the council.

It notes that the HLA would now act as the Head of the work force in the local government as well as act as a signatory to the account with the Director of Finance.

Church holds prayer for parents

By Adeola Ogunlade

THE Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), the Throne of Grace chapel, will hold its special monthly prayer for parents and intending parents on June 3 at its headquarters in EbuteMetta, Lagos.

The Assistant Pastor in change of the chapel, Pastor Goke Aniyeloye, broke the news in Lagos when he addresses reporters.

According to him, the prayer programme tagged: Rehoboth, will mobilise parents and intending parents to seek God’s mercies for prosperity in their endeavours.

He noted that though God’s plan for man is to multiply, replenish the earth, subdue it and have dominion over it.

•From left: Chairman of the occasion, Mr Steve Akinretoye; the book’s chief presenter, Dr. Uche Ogah; the author, Rev. Adebiyi; his wife, Caroline; and special guest, Dr Christopher Kolade, at the ceremony in Ikeja, Lagos...yesterday.

Tinubu urges Nigerians to embrace uprightness

F

ORMER Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, yesterday urged Nigerians to be virtuous, truthful and honest to get the country out of its multifaceted challenges.

He spoke in Lagos at the public presentation of a book entitled: Let the Nations Hears, written by the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos (Anglican Communion), Rev. Peter Adebiyi.

Prof. Tunde Samuel, who represented the former governor, noted that Tinubu stands for the principles the author outlines in the book, which seeks to unite the country through moral up-

•Cleric presents autobiography

By Musa Odoshimokhe

rightness.

Samuel said: “I see this book as a thesis in which 80 per cent of your views represent the views of Asiwaju Timubu. That is why he had to ensure that I am here on his behalf.”

Rev. Abebiyi said the book reveals his mind and pains on the Nigerian situation.

The cleric said God has shown the country abundant love while the people have refused to reciprocate the divine gesture.

He said: “Instead of Nige-

ria bearing good fruits, the majority of its fruits are bitter and difficult to swallow.

It is my hope that by reading this book, God will touch the hearts of many Nigerians in a special way.”

The cleric explained that the book dwells on the socio-political and moral life of Nigerians, adding that these have been encapsulated in his sermons to the synod in the past 19 years.

“I am one of the few people who experience the two sides of the coin known as Nigeria,” Adebiyi said.

The book reviewer, Prof Akin Oyebode, noted that the book seeks to guide the nation to God and save them. Citing the recent protest by students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) following the change of the institution’s name to Moshood Abiola University (MAU), the academic urged everyone to be cautious on the matter.

He said: “Chief M.K.O. Abiola has done a lot for this nation and deserves whatever recognition. We should not demean the personality

of Abiola. I feel for members of his family, who would be made to go through this trauma, as if their father is being rejected. That is the bad image the whole thing is conveying.”

Oyebode asked rhetorically that if Abiola could be treated like this, who else would want to make any sacrifice for the nation?

“The people are protesting because an institution is named after one of the martyrs of democracy, which Abiola defended with his blood. But it now appears he is being rejected. It points to the fact that virtues have been relegated,” he said.

Group threatens to mobilise Ilaje against Mimiko over alleged OSOPADEC fraud

A

SOCIO-POLITICAL group, the Ilaje Democratic Forum (IDF), yesterday threatened to mobilise the Ilajes - the residents of the oil producing coastal area of Ondo State - against the Olusegun Mimiko administration, if it fails to defend an allegation of fraud the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) leveled against it.

The group vowed to also sue the state government over an alleged misappropriation of funds meant for the development of the oil producing area.

From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

In a statement by its Chairman, Nimbe Tawose, and Secretary, Oluyide Mekuleyi, after its monthly meeting at Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area, the group said the Mimiko administration has made the Ilajes to look inferior to other ethnic sub-groups in the state.

It noted that since the government came to office three years ago, it has not executed any project in the area.

IDF alleged that the Olusegun Agagu administration left N16billion in the

coffers of the state’s Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) for the present government.

The group also alleged that the mismanagement of the 13 per cent Oil Derivation Fund, which accrued to the state from the statutory allocation account of the Federal Government, has led to the backwardness of the region.

The statement added: “The state government and OSOPADEC owe the good people of Ilaje a detailed explanation on the N61.3billion financial allegation leveled against them by the

EFCC. The government should also explain what becomes of the N16billion left behind in the OSOPADEC treasury by the past administration. Mimiko has failed to touch any of the 406 ongoing projects in the region.

“The state government is also compelled to declare to the good people of Ilaje the accrued amount of 13 per cent Derivation Fund it has received from the Federation Account since February, 2009 till date and what ought to go to OSOPADEC for the development of Ilaje land.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

11 ‘We must use our population to create markets for what we produce. We must grow local, buy local and eat local.

In the State House, I am faithfully keeping to my promise of eating cassava bread and local rice.’

- President Goodluck Jonatahn

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Sanusi: Proposed bills threaten CBN’s role

T

WO bills being proposed in Senate that would give legislators powers to vet the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) budget and appoint its board are a serious menace to the bank’s independence if passed.

The CBN governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi disclosed this in an interview with Reuters yesterday.

Analysts and experts suspect this is a case of settling political scores as Sanusi is a vocal critic of parliament’s recurrent expenditure.

Market players have praised the governor for his efforts to reform the banking system, including preventing its collapse during a 2008/9 financial crisis.

In a $4 billion bailout, Sanusi went after powerful elites suspected of fraudulently inflating assets, sacking eight bank heads whom many thought untouchable.

He is also seen as a relative hawk on inflation: tightly controlling the money supply, keeping interest rates high and intervening to stabilise the naira whenever oil-fuelled government spending threatens price stability.

“The only reason they after Sanusi is because he has been too vocal and too strong to contend with them.

Therefore, they want to cut his power, not thinking of the danger it can cause to the financial system. In going after Sanusi, they are trying to destroy the CBN, which should not happen,” said the former Chief Executive Officer of the defunct Citizens Bank, Mr. Okechukwu Nnegbu at a forum in Lagos last Wednesday.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil - $123.6/barrel Cocoa - $2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold - $1,800/troy ounce Rubber - ¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion

RATES Inflation -12.6% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -14.18% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $34.6b CFA EUR £ $ ¥ SDR RIYAL

-

FOREX

0.2958 206.9 245 156.4 1.9179 241 40.472

Subsidy probe: N104b lost to NNPC inefficiency, says KPMG T HE Federal Government lost over N104billion (about $65million) as demurrage from 2007 to 2010 due to alleged “inefficiency” in the operations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), it was learnt yesterday.

A partner of KPMG, Dimeji Salaudeen disclosed this while testifying before the Senate Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources, (Downstream), Appropriations and Finance probing the management of fuel subsidy in the country.

KMPG officials appeared before the Senator Magnus

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Abe led Committee to defend KPMG report on the activities of NNPC between 2007 to 2010.

Salaudeen said a total of $200 million was paid as demurrage by the NNPC due to lapses in its operations during the five -year covered by its audit report.

He said that $65 million out of the $200 million demurrage payments resulted from al-

leged inefficiency on the part of the NNPC. He said: “We determined on average how long it took NNPC to clear a cargo and compared with smaller operators. NNPC had rooms to be more efficient. Smaller operators do it in less time,” he said.

Group Managing Director of NNPC, Austin Oniwon however, disowned the KPMG report.

He said the audit firm did not consult it during the investigation leading to the said report.

This was contrary to the claims by KPMG that it consulted NNPC, Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) and fuel importer/marketers before arriving at its findings and recommendations.

The NNPC boss denied the assertion saying he was neither aware of the report nor did KPMG bring any of its findings to the attention of the oil corporation.

Oniwon said: “NNPC is not aware of this report and we were not queried on any of

these issues being raised here.

We are hearing of it for the first time here.”

Chairman of the Joint Committee, Magnus Abe directed the Clerk of the Committee to subpoena Chief Executive Officers of Oando Nigeria Plc and Folawiyo Oil to appear before it unfailingly on Tuesday.

KPMG, which was answering questions from the committee members on how it arrived at its findings and recommendations in the report also revealed that it discovered a net over-payment of N25billion made by the PPPRA “due to error in documentations.”

•From left: Philippe Demuer, CEO of NECONDE ENERGY, Dariusz Mioduski, Director, Tunde Folawiyo, Director, Dr Ernest Azudialu, Chairman, Mr Sebastian Kulcsyk, Director, Mr Manoj Madnani, also a Director, Val Uche Obi (Company Secretary), and Mr Chike Chukwuka, a director of the oil firm at the sixth meeting of Board of Directors in Lagos ... Monday.

Reps flay lodging of Sovereign Fund in foreign banks

T

HE House of Representatives yesterday opposed the lodging of proceeds from Excess Crude Oil sales in foreign banks.

The members at plenary agreed to set up a joint committee to further investigate the issue and also hold a public hearing in which stakeholders will come up with ideas on how to realise the objectives of the Sovereign Investment Fund (SWF).

The SWF replaced the Excess Crude Account (ECA) established by the Olusegun Obasanjo administration under controversial circumstances – without the approval of the National Assembly.

The joint committee is also to examine the possibility of keeping the funds “in first class commercial banks in the country” so as to guarantee the correct usage of the SWF. The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by a member, Aminu Suleiman (PDP Kano) There has been a running battle between the state governors and the Federal government over the lodging

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

over $1billion of funds jointly meant for the three tiers, as savings..

Some governors are currently trying to get the Federal Government to retrace its steps on the issue through a court action.

The fund was supposedly lodged on the advice of the Ministers of Finance and Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga.

According to Suleiman, unless the proceeds of the SWF were lodged in banks within the country, it will always be a source of friction between the Federal and State governments.

Leo Ogor (PDP Delta), Deputy Leader of the House, while supporting the motion said the concept of SWF was laudable. He however, expressed his reservation over the stashing of the funds abroad, saying the purpose may be lost as long as the funds belonging to the country were stashed abroad.

He said:”The concept behind creating this fund is wonderful, but we must be able to build our banks and strengthen our economy by keeping our money or funds

of the federation in our banks.

“The economies of countries abroad would expand and get better by the action of government while that of Nigeria would continue to shrink. This nation, right from independence has witnessed funds stashed in foreign accounts only for those countries to use the money to develop their economies to our detriment.”

Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi (PDP/Enugu) while stating his position on the issue said “it amounted to doublespeak and double-standards when the CBN told us that our banks could compete with other banks abroad only to encourage the FG to take our money and invest abroad.”

Emmanuel Jime (PDP/ Benue) in his contribution proposed that the House should amend the SWF Act to give teeth to its resolution on the matter.

The Deputy speaker of the House, Emeka Ihedioha referred the motion to the House Committees on Commerce, Banking and Currency and Finance to investigate the issues.

Foreign reserves hit $37.64b

N

IGERIA’S foreign exchange reserves rose to a 21-month high of $37.64 billion by May 28 and were up three per cent from a month earlier, the latest figures from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed yesterday.

The country’s forex reserves stood at $36.52 billion at the end of April and $32.08 billion a year ago.

They have not been this high since August 19, 2010, when they stood at $37.67 billion.

The apex bank according to Reuters attributed the increase to the rise in capital flows from offshore investors and favourable oil prices in the international market.

Foreign exchange reserves according to the latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) report stood at $36.66 billion at end-April 2012, representing an increase of $4.02 billion or 12.32 per cent above the level of US$32.64 billion at end-December 2011.

‘Fuel price hike likely’

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ENAISSANCE Capital has said that the rapid depletion of petroleum subsidy will lead to a further increase in the prices of petroleum products in Nigeria. In a report titled: Nigeria: Postcard from Nigeria, the research firm posited that the price of fuel will increase in the short term unless the Federal Government arrest the depleting oil subsidy reserve.

It said: “We think the rapid depletion of the 2012 budget’s petrol subsidy provision raises the probability of a petrol price hike in a short term. The subsidy issue remains a significant fiscal and political problem. “ It said the government

By Akinola Ajibade

needs political will to remove oil subsidy, adding that those indicted in the oil subsidy probe may need to be jailed for that to happen. The firm said the government needs to show evidence that the proceeds of the subsidy are well spent, before there is political support for removal of subsidy.

According to the firm, oil needs to fall to $60 per barrel before the subsidy in its current form would cease to be implemented. It further called for the review of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), arguing that the PIB legislation is yet to meet international standards.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

12

BUSINESS NEWS Flight Schedule

‘Glo ahead of CBN in cash-less initiative’

MONDAY - FRIDAY LAGOS – ABUJA Departure Arrival 1. Aero 06.50 08.10 2. Associated 07.00 09.30 3. Air Nigeria 07.00 08.20 4. IRS 07.00 08.20 5. Dana 07.02 08.22 6. Arik 07.15 08.15 7. Chanchangi 07.15 8. Air Nigeria 08.15 09.35 9. Dana 08.10 09.20 10. Aero 08.45 10.05 11. Arik 09.15 10.15 12. Chanchangi 10.00 11.00 13. IRS 11.15 12.35 14. Dana 12.06 12.26 15. Aero 12.20 13.30 16. Air Nigeria 13.25 14.45 17. Chanchangi 13.30 14.30 18. Arik 13.45 14.45 19. IRS 14.00 15.20 20. Aero 14.10 15.30 21. Air Nigeria 14.50 16.10 22. Dana 15.30 16.50 23. Chanchangi 15.30 16.30 24. Arik 15.50 16.50 25. Aero 16.00 17.20 26. IRS 16.30 17.50 27. Arik 16.50 17.50 28. Dana 17.10 18.30 29. Chanchangi 17.30 18.30 30. Air Nigeria 17.35 18.55 31. Air Nigeria (T/TH) 18.30 19.50 32. Arik 18.45 19.45 33. Aero 19.20 20.40 1.

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LAGOS – BENIN Arik 07.30 Associated 08.30 Aero 10.50 Arik 11.45 Associated 13.00 Aero 14.25 Arik 15.30 Associated 16.00

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

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40 08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20 12.15 12.45 09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

LAGOS – PORT HARCOURT (CIVIL) 1. Aero 07.15 08.35 2. Arik 07.15 08.35 3. Arik 09.00 10.20 4. Dana 09.27 10.40 5. Aero 10.50 12.30 6. Arik 11.40 13.00 7. Air Nigeria 12.00 13.10 8. IRS 13.30 15.00 9. Arik 14.00 15.20 10. Dana 15.03 16.20 11. Air Nigeria 16.00 17.10 12. Arik 16.10 17.30 13. Aero 16.15 17.30 14. Arik 17.10 18.30 1.

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

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LAGOS – WARRI 08.15 11.50 11.55 14.55

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LAGOS – KANO Air Nigeria 07.10 IRS 08.00 Dana 08.10 Arik 12.20 IRS 14.00 IRS 18.15

08.50 09.45 09.40 14.00 15.45 19.55

LAGOS – OWERRI 07.20 14.00 16.30

08.30 15.10 17.40

LAGOS – UYO 10.35

11.35

1. Arik 2. Arik 3. Arik 1. Dana

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

08.00 18.00

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

By Adline Atili

S

•From left: Mr Olusegun Aganga, Minister of Trade & Investment, Mr. Wael Ammar, Chief Commercial Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, and Mr. Oluwole Rawa, Director, Marketing Segments & Strategy, Etisalat Nigeria at the Market Access Nigeria Conference sponsored by Etisalat Nigeria in collaboration with the Enterprise Development Center (EDC) of the Pan African University in Abuja ... yesterday.

BAT defends right to business

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RITISH American Tobacco (BAT) has defended its right to business and rejected accusations of interfering in public health policy making the World Health Organisation and anti-tobacco campaigners promoting ‘World No Tobacco Day.’ Director of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs of the firm, Kingsley Wheaton, said BAT reserve the right to express personal views on issues that affect their legitimate business though some may not be comfortable with the nature of their business.

He said: “Some might not agree with what we say, but we think we have the right to be heard as does any other business or anyone else involved in the debate.

We have a right to engage transparently on issues affecting our highly regulated product that many adults choose to use. Though it’s controversial, it is nevertheless legal.”

He pointed out that though some

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie, Assistant Editor

people may be averse to smoking, it however does not remove the fact that income from the product contributes to the economies of more than 180 countries worldwide, not only through tens of billions of pounds in taxes yearly, but also through the 56,000 directly employed and the hundreds of thousands of others employed indirectly by the industry.

Wheaton said BAT reports openly and transparently about their operations globally, while engaging decision makers to aid their understanding of the unintended consequences of some regulations to tobacco business. However, he regretted that despite this, some ‘World No Tobacco Day’ campaigners are attempting to convince governments to avoid engaging legitimate industry operators, labeling them “industry interference”.

He challenged the campaigners and lobbyists whom he tagged ‘industry interference’ as mischief makers who are bent on deceiving governments globally on the true position of things. The BAT boss insisted that World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control did not instruct governments to stop engaging with tobacco companies, but that in the real sense of it, governments worldwide see the importance of getting a proper understanding of the impacts of regulation from the industry before making policy.

He pledged his company’s preparedness to continue to engage transparently on issues that affect tobacco business. Wheaton challenged the campaigners on who they would rather support, a legitimate and accountable company such as theirs or underground criminals with terrorist links who don’t care how young their customers are or what they sell?

ECOND National Operator, Globacom has received commendations from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for various initiatives aimed at enhancing the cash-less policy.

Speaking yesterday in Lagos at the launch of the Telco’s mobile banking product, Verve M-PIN, Assistant Director, CBN, Anthony Okafor, commended Glo for its efforts at introducing an array of products for its subscribers to embrace the cash-less scheme.

He described Glo as “far ahead of the CBN in cash-less initiatives.”

He said the company was constantly churning out products and services to make electronic banking easy, convenient and seamless for its over 20million subscribers across the country.

He said the company pioneered mobile money service in the country with the introduction of the Glo ‘Txtcash,’ a service that enables mobile subscribers use their mobile numbers to store electronic value (e-Value) of money for payment of goods and services.

Powered by the Glo Txtcash, the Verve M-PIN service, according to the company, offers subscribers, including the un-banked, a secure, convenient and fast way of settling bills and making payments for goods and services.

Globacom’s Executive Director, Adewale Sangowawa, said the service, launched in partnership with Fidelity Bank, FCMB, Mainstreet Bank, Stanbic IBTC, Sterling, Wema Bank and Interswitch, would ensure financial inclusion of more Nigerians, enabling performance of tasks on the Web, Automated Teller Machines (ATM) and Point of Sale (PoS) terminals, through mobile channels.

To ensure smooth operation of the service, Sangowawa said Glo has committed into the ground, huge optical fibre cable, powered by its Glo 1 subsea cable to provide robust broadband Internet for fast and reliable service delivery.

NDIC opposes use of foreign currencies in local transactions

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HE Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has opposed the use of foreign currency in some transactions in Nigeria.

To this end, NDIC has backed the planned amendment to section 26A of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act which will forbid the use of foreign currencies in some transaction in Nigeria.

The NDIC made this position known yesterday in Abuja when it submitted a Memorandum to the joint Senate committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions and Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the amendment

From Nduka Chiejina Assistant Editor, Abuja

of the CBN Act. According to the NDIC in its memorandum, “the CBN has the sole responsibility for the issuance of legal tender currency in Nigeria. As such, it is the duty of CBN to manage and protect the currency that it has issued as is done in other jurisdictions. All monetary transactions in Nigeria should be based on the local currency, the Naira. The practice where some transactions are quoted in foreign currencies is alien to best practices. Consequently, we strongly

support the proposed amendment as contained in Section 26A.” Also, the NDIC has lent its support to the full autonomy and independence of the CBN, arguing that the “CBN independence is an essential component of modern monetary systems.” This, the NDIC said, is very important especially in times of financial crisis.

NDIC said the CBN uses public resources to perform its functions and any increase in its expenditure reduces its profits and so reduces its annual payment to the consolidated revenue account. It listed the expenditures to include the administrative

costs of developing and implementing monetary policy, providing financial services to the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and the banking system, and supervising and regulating banks and their holding companies.

While the National Assembly should naturally be interested in the amount of economic resources used in these activities and in whether the CBN is using these resources efficiently, the NDIC advised the National Assembly “to compare the use of resources in these areas with other alternative uses of the same resources.

Nigeria has about 17.3m SMEs, says Aganga

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HE Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, yesterday said Nigeria has about 17.3million Small and Medium Enterprises with a total employment in the sector put at about 32million.

He said since the SME drives economy in the developed world, all Nigerians have a big task ahead to collaborate with the government to develop the sector.

Aganga, who made the disclosures at a forum on Market Access in Nigeria by Etisalat, Pan African University and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in Abuja , said

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation, Abuja

there is a better future ahead for the nation’s economy.

He said: “We have, since the beginning of this administration, strategically positioned small businesses to drive the economy. The recent data undertaken by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) put the micro, small and medium businesses in the region of 17.3million across the country with total employment in the sector put at about 32 million and contribution

of about 45 per cent to the GDP “We have a market with 167million people. In fact, the strategy for job creation in most developed economies is based on the SME sector.

“It is not a rocket science thing.

Assuming that if only half of the 17.3million SGBs create a job each every year, that is about 8million.

“That is why developed and developing economies are basing their plan on SMEs. We have also developed a new SME policy which is now going through a consultation process. This government, will have a well-articulated structure for the development of SME.

“Our future lies in SME. An average Nigerian has that entrepreneurial spirit and other African countries say when you see a Nigerian, he has “can do” spirit.

“One of the major challenges confronting Small and Growing Businesses (SGBs) is access to competitive market both locally, regionally and internationally. A new impetus must be generated to expand SGB horizon.

“For the SGB or SME, the mentality has to change from starting a business to growing business. Bill Gates, Aliko Dangote and others started small expanding because they have a vision.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

50TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

oday Wednesday 30th May, 2012 (9th Rajab, 1433 AH) the Kano State Executive Council held its Fiftieth (50th) sitting in continuation with previous sittings during which important policy issues and programs that positively impact on the quality of lives of our citizenry were deliberated upon. Authentic and indelible records show that since inception of its second tenure, the present administration pursues tangible projects spanning all sectors putting emphasis on its commitment to fulfilling campaign promises driven by the general resolve to proving good governance characterized by exemplary leadership in which utilization/ deployment of resources, though conspicuous, is guided by prudence and transparency.

It is encouraging to note the evidences that attest to the fact that the quality and quantity of services provided by Government have improved across all sectors – especially education, water supply, agricultural production, health care delivery, environmental sanitation and refuse disposal, repairs of street and traffic lights, beautification and general aesthetic upgrading of urban Kano, etc.

Remember, that in Forty nine (49) sittings during the first year of its second tenure, the present administration approved an expenditure over N49 billion in 49 sittings at an average of over N1billion per sitting. Notably, the total sum of N3,290,337,452.40 was approved for release for the execution of eleven (11) projects by the Council during its most recent 49th sitting highlighted as follows: MAIN HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 49TH SITTING INCLUDE: 1. N740,000,000.00 as minimum share capital for 37 proposed Micro Finance Banks in 37 Local Government Areas of the State.

2. N1,672,425.00 for workers literacy programme to enable the facilitation of the literacy programme for Messengers, cleaners, etc.

3. N5,000,000.00 as assistance to enable the Nigerian Volleyball Association facilitate conduct of The Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso open Volleyball Championship (Male and Female) 29th May – 9th June 2012.

4. N600,000.00 as funds to enable the Office of the Special Advisor on Private Schools address outstanding commitments and logistics incurred during important inspection visitations to 200 Private Schools.

5. N1,709,715,014.00 as 2011 matching grant funds permitted to be used by the Ministry of Education through SUBEB as proposed; thus a.

97 blocks of 4 classrooms N1,558,977,014.00 b.

8148 units of 3-seater desks N130,368,000.00 c.

388 sets of teachers furniture N5,820,000.00 d.

970 sets of office furniture N14,550,000.00 Total N1,709,715,014.00 1. N498,000.00 as funds for the Launching of 2012 Mass Literacy campaign titled “Building a Learning Society”.

2. N66,164,380.00 as funds to facilitate the 3rd batch of Animal Traction Training Programme.

3. N197,800,000.00 for the procurement and supply of 2,300 metric tons of aluminium sulphate for the treatment of water at various plants across the State.

4. N24,417,782.19 for the construction of overflow parking lots in front of the Government House.

5. N15,923,387.21 for the construction of 50m drainage and the State Coat of Arms molding on the Government House perimeter wall panels.

6. N528,546,464.00 as compensation for Land and Economic trees in respect of site acquired for Amana city at Gurjiya. As usual, today’s Council sitting was presided over by the Governor Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso FNSE during which 33 memoranda were submitted by ten (10) MDAS for deliberation by the Council. An expenditure of N3,440,465,337.51 covering 21 projects was approved for execution by the council as follows: 1. Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development Two (2) memoranda were submitted by this Ministry for consideration and deliberation by the Council as follows; a. Request for funds to Flag-off the program tagged “Safe Motherhood Emergency Transportation Scheme (SMETS)” in collaboration with Path 2, NURTW and Ministry of Health:Council noted and appreciated contents of the submitted memorandum on the referred issue as aiming to intimate a health matter concerning women in respect of maternal mortality issue by which so many lives are being lost in avoidable circumstances especially those to do with transporting women throughout the period of pregnancy, birth and beyond to and from their homes or on referrals from Primary Health Centers (PHC) to the hospital for the attention of obstetrician, pediatrician and other specialists when required. The scheme is tailored as to provide the required succor to the critical issue of transportation to women in pregnancy, birth and beyond. The pilot scheme is proposed to initially focus on a cluster of ten (10) Local Governments namely Albasu, Garko, Takai, D/Kudu, Kumbotso, Kunchi, Tsanyawa and Nassarawa and is projected to cover the majority thirty four (34) Local Government areas of the State when successfully handled.

Council considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N3,196,952.00 to the Ministry of Women Affairs to enable the facilitation of Flagging – off the pilot scheme. This is in line with present administration’s policy on intervening on critical service delivery especially in the health sector in addition to the free ante/post natal services provided to women.

1. MINISTRY OF RURAL AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Two memoranda were submitted by this Ministry for consideration and deliberation by the Council as follows; a. Notification of refund (retirement) of funds to the treasury by Rural Electrification Board (REB):Council acknowledged and appreciated having received the memorandum on the referred issue. Notably, savings of N6,138,725.00 was realized after the successful completion as reported, of the second phase of rehabilitation exercise of vandalized electricity networks in the State executed by the Rural Electricity Board. The money was refunded to the treasury as substantiated by sterling Bank Plc cheque No. 05235332 and a copy of the forwarding letter. Council applauded the effort and advised all MDAS to copy and adopt as proof of the resolve of the present administration to consume and utilize resources prudently and transparently. b. Request for Operational and Renovation funds for Vocational Training Center, Gama:Responding to Council’s directive issued to the Hon. Commissioner Ministry of Rural and Community development at its 42nd sitting of 4th April, 2012 a request of the sum of N4,884,061.00 to effect some renovation/rehabilitation works at the Vocational Training Centre Gama for convenience and provision of an enabling environment for skill acquisition and provide funds to expend on courses and trainers allowances. Approval was granted for release of the requested sum since it is in line with the present administration’s policy on economic empowerment of our teeming youth in which skill acquisition for employment and self reliance are the catch words.

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OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT Nine (8) memoranda under the auspices of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government were submitted for consideration and deliberation by the Council – viz:a. Request for approval and funds to commence phase ii of the Kwankwaso Women Empowerment Scheme (KWES) by the Kano State Community Re-orientation Committee (CRC):The attentive Council appreciatively acknowledged the notification on the conclusion of phase I of the Kwankwaso Women Empowerment Scheme (KWES) and noted the current request and proposal to commence the second phase of the training programme projected to consume the sum of N44,000,000.00 (i.e N10,000.00 x 100 x 44) or 100 women from each of 44 Local Governments in the State to benefit the donation of N10,000.00 as starting capital for the trade acquired. “Funkaso da Taushe” is projected to kick-start the second phase of the scheme. Approval for the release of the requested sum was granted by the Council being entrepreneurial assistance to women under batch one since the scheme is only in fulfillment of one of the cardinal campaign promises of the current administration and is being carried out satisfactorily. b. Request for approval to offer programmes in customized courses at the State Informatics Institute:Council appreciated the proposal to expand the programmes and courses offered at the Kano State Informatics Institute as to include the following: 1. Basic Computer Application 2. Advanced Computer Training 3. Specific Training (Specialized computer training) which include; i.

Website Design ii.

Networking Installation iii.

Computer Technology iv. Software Design v.

I.T . Consultancy.

Council agreed that inclusion of the proposed courses will certainly expand the scope of the courses offered by the Informatics Institution making it more relevant and significant in training and empowerment of youth in Information Technology and allied fields. So, approval for the inclusion of the courses mentioned was granted by the Council while the Office of the Hon. Commissioner Ministry of Science and Technology was directed to come up with modalities for Government’s consideration and approval for implementation. a. Request for funds for the procurement of Mobile Computer Lab-van vehicle:Council noted that the referred communication was from the Ministry of Science and Technology which informed the Council that acquisition and utilization of the vehicle by the Ministry will smoothen its activities and raise the quality of servicpe delivered. So, Council approved release of the requested sum of N4,100,000.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for the purchase and allocation of the requested vehicle to the Ministry of Science and Technology. b. Presentation of a proposal on the employment of Academic Supporting Staff and drivers for the smooth running of the State’s Informatics Institute activities:The observant Council was fully notified of the precarious situation bedeviling academic activities in the Informatics Institute under the current franchise agreement with the Jigawa Sate Government Institute of Information Technology, Kazaure which is also under franchise agreement with Informatics Academy Singapore. Importantly, Council noted that the agreement will expire by September, 2012 a situation that necessitates the need for Kano State Government to employ its own lecturers. Unfortunately, Council observed that this request was not channeled to the committee for the recruitment of 1000 youth exercise. In any case, the request by the Ministry of Science and Technology is for the employment of six (6No) Academic Staff with Bsc. Msc. Or PhD in Information Technology, four (4No.) computer Technicians, One (1No.) Networking Technician, two (2No.) Mathematics Teachers and one bus driver. Total requirement is for fourteen (14No.) staff. Considering the adverse consequences experienced by the Informatics Institution the Council specially classified the request and directed the Committee on 1000 youth recruitment to provide the requirement. Again, Council directed the Ministry of Science and Technology to renegotiate the sub-franchise mandate with the Jigawa State Government for the next one year w.e.f September, 2012 then source the rest from within the service for redeployment. c. Information memorandum submitted by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Higher Education on conduct of the recent payment of scholarship allowances:Council noted from the referred communication that the recent payment exercise of scholarship allowances conducted by the verification committee in collaboration with the scholarship Board had irregularities which prompted the Senior Special Assistant on Higher Education to advise Government on the need for :i.

A seed stock money for the Scholarship Board i.e complementary investment for the Board to reduce over-dependence on Government’s funding. ii. The verification committee that conducted the recent payment be maintained as standing committee. iii. Computerization of statistical data on all benefiting students before payment. iv. Bank payment for students outside the State.

Council considered and approved and directed the Ministry of Higher Education to; i.

Computerize students statistical data akin to the Biometric Data Exercise conducted for the State Civil Servants. ii. Engage a consultant to handle the statistical data computerization exercise. iii. Maintain the verification committee that conducted the most recent payment exercise as a standing committee. a. Request for funds for the procurement of fourty (40No.) Public Mobile Toilets by the Office of the Special Adviser Metropolitan:Council noted and appreciated contents of the referred communication as advising Government to invest into a viable revenue generating venture capable of providing employment opportunities for some youth in the State. The model recommended for procurement is the “Mike Mobile Toilet (MMT)” that costs N250,000.00 per unit including installation works to be supervised by KNUPDA. Locating such toilet facilities in selected areas of the metropolis that require them is a wholesome initiative. So, Council approved release of the requested sum of N10,000,000.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to enable the Office of the Special Adviser Metropolitan purchase 40 units of public mobile toilets for distribution location and installation at selected areas. Thus N250,000.00 x 40 = N10,000,000.00. b. Request for the allocation of Land to enable the Kano State Zakkah and Hubsi Commission construct its permanent office for smooth conduct of its assignment:Council acknowledged and responded favourable to the referred communication by directing the Hon. Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning to respond to the request by allocating a suitable plot of land to the Zakkah and Hubsi Commission.

5. MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY, CO-OPERATIVES AND TOURISM. Request for funds to enable Kano State participate at the 5th annual NCTI meeting holding at Minna, Niger State (Monday 4th – Friday 8th June 2012):Council acknowledged having received notification of the invitation from the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment for Kano State’s participation at the National Council on Trade and Investment (NCT) meeting as an annual event of the highest organ responsible for policy formulation as it relates to commercial and industrial activities in the Country. Council appreciated the fact that this year’s meeting is the fifth (5th) of its type and is to hold between 4th and 8th of June, 2012 (i.e five days). The Ministry of Commerce is recommending five member delegates to represent Kano State at the august event. They include:1. The Hon. Commissioner 2. Permanent Secretary 3. Director Planning, Research and Statistics 4. Director Commerce and 5. Director Industry.

Council was made to take note of the fact that two (2) memoranda will be presented at the meeting by the delegation from Kano State.

Title of the respective memoranda are: 1. Common facility centre (CFC) Free Trade Zone 2.

Consumer Protection As such, the Ministry of Commerce is requesting for funds to facilitate for the duty tour allowances (DTA) of the officers and logistics amounting to the aggregate sum of N720,000.00. Council approved release of the requested sum so as to enable the participation of Kano State at the 5th annual meeting of the NCTI especially to uphold the slogan “Kano is the National Centre of Commerce”.

1. MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES Request for funds for the completion of twenty (20) rooms hostel block and construction of workshop and laboratory at the Assistant Works superintendant Training School (AWS) Challawa:Council noted, considered and appreciated the referred communication as an alert on the need to complete an already started project initiated since the year 2005 and on which the Government has already expended N7,000,000.00 and abandoned on attaining structure level only. Council was intimated of the fact that completing the twenty rooms hostel students from other States such as Katsina, Kogi, Bauchi, Oyo and Lagos can be properly accommodated. Again, construction of the workshop and laboratory will provide the required learning environment for the training of middle level manpower in the areas of Water resources engineering, construction and other related services. As such, the Ministry of Water Resources is requesting the Council’s approval for the release of the sum of N49,893,285.11 to carry out this important project – thus; 1. Construction of 20(No) rooms hostel block/wall fencing N29,536,538.91 2. Construction of workshop N13,732,324.40 Rabi’u Musa 3. Construction of Laboratory N6,624,421.80 Kwankawaso Total N49,893,285.11 This is according to its in-house estimate. Nevertheless, Council approved the release of the recommended Special Ministerial Tender’s Board sum of N48,894,954.38 to enable the Ministry of Water Resources award the contract to Messrs. Integrated Associated Nig. Ltd. The gesture is in line with the present administration’s policy of providing for vitally required projects.

1. MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL PLANNING Five (5) memoranda were submitted by the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning for consideration and deliberation by the Council – as follows:a. Presentation of notification on the need for amendment of approved Land compensation rates:The Council was fully reminded of its approval and directive on gazetting the recommended new rates at its sitting of 2nd November, 2011. The approved rates then were N1million per hectare and N600,000.00 per hectare in urban and rural areas respective. Now the Ministry of Land was alerting the responsive Council of the need to amend and re-classify locations so as to reduce the unavoidable expression of grievances especially from affected farm owners closer to the core urban areas, as different from those holdings at the urban peri-pheries. So, a three class categorization was advanced by the Ministry for Council’s consideration and approval for adoption – viz: 1. N1million per hectare of land within the first ten kilometers (10km) radius of the metropolitan area.

2. N800,000.00 per hectare of land in the second 10km (semi urban) following the first and, 3. N800,000.00 per hectare of land in the rural areas.

So, Council noted considered and approved the presented re-classification of the land compensation rates and directed for the gazetting of the amended rates. a. Request for funds for the construction of concrete median at Audu Bako Way and Lagos Street:Council was adequately notified the contents of the referred communication being only a re-submission of an earlier presented issue on inadequate traffic control measures around the junction of Audo Bako way with Hospital road centering on the Kano – Nguru rail tack as well as some 150 meters along Lagos Street to its junction with Murtala Muhd Way. Council was adequately convinced that provision of the concrete medians will reduce the traffic hazards faced by pedestrians, cyclist motorcyclist and even motorist. So, release of the requested sum of N2,246,955.09 was approve to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to enable KNUPDA execute the project – thus:1.

120m concrete median construction on Audu Bako Way = N954,758.53 2.

152m concrete median construction on Lagos Street = N1,292,196.56 Total = N2,246,955.09 a. Request for funds for the actualization of acquisition and payment of compensation for land, trees and structures at the site of Kano terminus, Gundutse, Km 21 Kano – Zaria Road:Council was alerted of the need to pursue the already started project earnestly before the commencement of the rainy season. The Kano Southern Terminus propose at Gundutse is one of the two already started projects by the State and planned to cover over 178 hectares of sub-urban land and affects 1037 farm holdings along with a number of structures. So, the Ministry adequately highlighted to the Council of the need to take effective possession of the project site and payment of compensation is imperative. So, Council approved the release of the requested sum of N245,518,107.00 to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to effect payment of compensation for land, trees and structures at the site of Kano Southern terminus, Gundutse, Km 21 Kano – Zaria road as the entire project’s within the range of infrastructures earmarked for provision by the present administration aimed for the socio-economic development of the State. b. Request for funds to resettle outstanding commitments as well as continue to completion the already started work of laying interlock tiles along selected roads.

Council was presented a full appraised of the present situation as affects the interlock tiles laying project while contents of the referred communication are requesting once again for the release of the aggregate sum of N133,637,594.90 to enable KNUPDA continue the work to its completion and settle outstanding commitments to contractors.

Approval for the release of the requested fund was granted by the Council so as to see the good work to its completion as one among the most outstanding projects carried over from the inception of the first tenure of the present administration. c. Request for funds for the routine maintenance of metropolitan roads:Council was adequately intimated of the need to carry out maintenance work on six (6) important roads in urban Kano as follows:S/N ROAD AMOUNT (N) 1 Pilgrims camp road 13,956,567.32 2 Tukur road 16,022,587.48 3 Sulaiman/Lamido crescent 5,840,272.18 4 Yusuf road 14,293,878.12 5 Bergery road 4,624,866.20 6 Gandun Albasa – Yan Tsaki road 27,100,416.08 Total 81,838,587.38 The requested sum of N81,838,587.38 was approved for release by the Council to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to enable KNUPDA execute the maintenance work promptly so as to save the roads from worsening given their present deplorable condition.

1. Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport Eight (8) memoranda were submitted by the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport with a monetary implication to the aggregate sum of N2,708,951,216.16 for consideration and deliberation by the Council. Each of the memoranda that covers issues/projects with monetary cost(s) implication(s) is important in its own respective right. Seven (7) of such memoranda were submitted to the Council while one of them without monetary cost implication completed the total of eight from the Ministry. So, Council approved the release of the requested sum of N2,708,951,216.16 for the execution of the under listed projects. a. Notification of need for establishment of Kano State Roads Maintenance Agency:Council was adequately informed by contents of the referred communication of the importance of establishing such an agency by each of the 36 States of the Federation as was done by the Federal Government. The development has to do with Federal Government policy on allocation of funds for such purpose to States. Only States with established Roads Maintenance Agencies will henceforth enjoy the Federal allocation. Council directed the Hon. Commissioner of Works to fine tune the proposal and re-submit at next sitting for consideration and direction for further action. b. Request for funds and notification of the need to commence implementing of 2012 constituency projects:The responsive Council was adequately convinced of the need to commence the implementation of the constituency project scheme due to their grassroots support and need. The referred communication is requested Council to approve release of the sum of N2,200,000,000.00 for the execution of fourty (40) constituency projects across the 44 Local Government Areas of the State as follows; 1. Projects for the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport = N1,412,591,301.64 2. Projects for Ministry of Rural and Community Development = N787,408,698.34 3. Total = N2,200,000,000.00 Council approved release of the requested sum and directed the treasury to release all amounts due to the Ministry of Rural and Community Development directly while the Ministry of Works, housing and Transport issues the Authority to Incur Expenditure (AIE) to that effect. This is to improve accounting records of the scheme, eliminate delays and enhance efficiency. a. Request for funds for the relocation work of Kano State Water Board Headquarters from Kofar Nassarawa to Urban Water Supply premises:Council was adequately reminded by contents of the referred communication of its directive to the Ministry to relocate the Water Board Headquarters to a suitable location. So, Council approved release of the requested sum of N156,060,669.96 to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to enable it expedite action on the relocation endeavour. b. Request for funds for the renovation of Sharada workshop of the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport:Council was adequately notified of the dilapidated condition of the workshop belonging to the Ministry of Works and the need to renovate the workshop was presented as urgent so as to bring the facility back to its functional status as required. So, Council approved release of the requested sum of N13,091,370.00 to facilitate the renovation work of the workshop. c. Request for funds for the general renovation work at the Deputy Governor’s Lodge No. 51 Mississipi Street in Maitama District Abuja:Need for upgrading of the standards of the Deputy Governor’s Lodge at Abuja was adequately presented to the Council by contents of the referred communication. The effort is to avoid unnecessary expenses on hotel tariffs for Government officials while on duty in Abuja.

So, Council approved release of the requested sum of N182,225,342.75 to the Ministry of Works to expedite action on the renovation works. d. Request for funds for the construction and renovation works at the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) at Audu Bako Secretariat:Contents of the referred communication adequately notified Council of the need to renovate and add required structures at the existing office complex of the JSC. So, Council approved release of the requested sum of N29,435,966.30 to the Ministry of Works for the execution of the project. e. Request for funds for renovation work at the High Court of Justice Kano State:Council approved release of he requested sum of N74,878,084.36 to the Ministry of Works to carry out renovation work and construct additional structures at the High Court of Justice. This is in response to the notification of the urgent need for the project.

1. MINISTRY OF JUSTICE A proposal for the establishment of the Kano State Education Trust Fund (KETFUND) was submitted for consideration and deliberation by the Council. A draft law as recommended for enactment was intimated to the Council whose approval will take it to the next level or the Honourable House of Assembly for passage into law. Council approved passage of the draft law for enactment into law by the Honourable House of Assembly.

2. Ministry for Higher Education Two (2) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by the Council from the Ministry of Higher Education as follows:a. Request for funds for the construction of Main entrance gate ‘A’ of the Northwest University:The referred communication adequately informed Council of the need to construct (erect) befitting gates for the institution and approval was granted for the release of the requested sum of N34,283,799.00 to the Ministry for Higher Education to execute the project of erecting Gate ‘A’ as main entrance to the institution so as to give it the required look befitting its status. b. Proposal for the setting up of a committee on revenue generation and utilization by institutions under the Ministry for Higher Education and submission of a request for funds for the operations of the committee:Council was alerted by contents of the referred communication of the need to set up a committee charged with the generation of information on areas to generate revenue and properly utilize such. The Ministry requested for approval for the release of the sum of N2,000,000.00 so as to sustain operations of the proposed committee. Council approved release of the requested sum for the purpose presented.

1. MINISTRY FOR HEALTH: You are aware of the usual support of this present Administration towards health care delivery services in the metropolitan and across the rural communities. Today, Council approved the total sum of N97,503,624.66 so as to rehabilitate/renovate of the existing structures of the Gaya General Hospital/Staff houses which are in a state of moribund.

2. MINISTRY OF INFORMATION: In another development, Council also approved the sum of N24,812,213.00 for the procurement of a fully equipped public enlightenment vans so as to effectively enlightened the public on Government projects and programmes.

3. MINISTRY FOR AGRICULTURE: Today, Council also approved the sum of N40,000,000.00 for the procurement of equipment and facilities such as Double Decker Beds, Mattresses, pillows, beds sheets, feeding, frying pan, dining tables, bench, to Students at State Livestock Institute, Bagauda for the purpose of economic empowerment programmes.

UMAR FARUK JIBRIL (PhD), Hon. Commissioner, Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports and Culture.

SECURITY

CAMPAIGN

SERVICE

Uduaghan assures on security

Akpabio canvasses equal opportunities for children

Roads our priority

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Abia flags off health programme

A •Mrs Orji

BIA State has flagged off a non-communicable disease control and treatment awareness programme expected to screen and treat about 10,000 hypertensive and diabetes patients.

Flagging off the programme at the Amachara Specialist Hospital, Umuahia, the state capital, wife of the governor Mrs. Mercy Odochi Orji said that the initiative was a continuation of a series of publicprivate health initiatives embarked upon by the state in line

From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

with its commitment to good health for all citizens.

Regretting that non-communicable diseases are becoming major public health concerns, posing serious threat to human race, Mrs. Orji regretted that many people are dying daily from hypertension and diabetes and other related diseases.

The governor’s wife, however,

stated that through proper information management and awareness campaign, adequate reduction of the level of these ailments can be achieved. She further stressed that the government is committed to good health for all.

Mrs Orji disclosed that it was the necessity to save the lives of diabetic and hypertensive patients that informed the visitation of the health team to the hospital.

She said a screening conducted in that hospital showed that of the

300 people tested, 64 were hypertensive while 31 had high blood sugar level while others had various forms of ailments.

In an address, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Okechukwu Ogar regretted the effects of the diseases which he said had killed many people due to its long gestation period. He added that those who have lost their lives due to these diseases would have contributed to nation-building. He assured that government was committed to providing quality healthcare for the people.

•Continued on Page 48

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HE days of thirst are over.

So is the era of trekking for kilometers on end just to find water.

For the people of UmuikaEnuogo Nkerefi community in Nkanu East Local Government Area, Enugu State, it is a whole new world.

The community had been without water for decades. Sourcing good water took over many kilometers, making the liquid even more precious than crude oil or gold.

But now, their agony is over.

A borehole scheme initiated under 2009 MDG/CGS water projects has been completed and inaugurated by the state government.

The handing over of the water project to the Umuika– Enuogo Nkerefi community has brought to an end decades of water scarcity in the community and its neighbouring communities.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Managing Director of Enugu State Rural Water supply and Sanitation Agency (EnRUWASSA), Mr. Mike Cole Oguamah stated that the stream impoundment at Nkerefi was a pilot project developed by the Enugu State government as an alternative to providing safe drinking water to communities all the year round.

He said a geological survey had shown that construction of deep motorised boreholes would not be feasible, while shallow boreholes always dry up during the dry season.

Oguamah disclosed that the project has a concrete reservoir and overhead tank with a capacity of about 100,000 cubic metres of water, intake, treatment and filtration plants as well as reticulated to about 3km from the reservoir.

He explained that with time, reticulation would be extended to other parts of the community.

He charged the water management committee to ensure that everybody had access to the water as well as to make sure that all the clans that made up Enuogu-Nkerefi were represented in the committee, and that the security of the project

•Chime (middle) inaugurating one of the water projects

Communities find water, decades after Enugu agency urges proper management Beneficiaries hail Chime the community to devise the best From Chris Oji, Enugu

must never be compromised.

The benefitting communities expressed their joy as they saw water in their neighbourhood. They thanked Governor Sullivan Chime.

Handing over the water scheme

to the community, the commissioner for Budget and Planning and chairman of MDG Oversight Committee, Dr. K. O. Agbowo stated that since Enugu State government spent huge amounts of money to build the water scheme at no cost to the community, it is now left for

way to raise money to maintain the project.

Agbowo pointed out that the project would not only serve the community’s water needs but would also reduce drastically the incidents of water-borne diseases which were present in the area and the medical expenses the villagers

incur as a result of such diseases.

Other neighbouring communities that requested for the extension of the water to their villages were informed by the commissioner that water was for all but they should liaise first with the water management committee to discuss the modalities for the extension in “the spirit of Governor Sullivan Chime’s desire to provide safe drinking water to the people of Enugu State.

The Umuika-Enuogo Nkerefi community through the chairman of the water management committee, Mr. Kingsley Ogbu expressed gratitude to the state government for citing the project, the first of its kind in their community.

He said that before now the the issue of safe drinking water had been a nightmare to the community against the background that it was a guinea worm endemic community.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

18

Uduaghan assures on security

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•From left: Asiwaju Solomon Onafowokan, past President Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Babatunde Ruwase, Vice President Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Chairman Trade Promotion Board and Alhaji Remi Bello, Deputy President of the chamber during the public presentation of the prospects of 2012 trade fair.

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MEMBER of the House of Representatives representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Abiodun Awoleye, has presented poverty alleviation items such as grinding machines, generators, barbing equipment, dryers, deep freezers, mobile phones, and tricycles among others toresidents of the constituency. He made the donation recently at the Barracks Playing Ground Yemetu, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The ACN lawmaker while making the donation under the scheme tagged: “Empowerment of People in Ibadan North Constituency (Phase 1BATCH A), said the gesture is a testimony of fulfillment of one of his campaign promises to the people of the area during the 2011 general elections.

He said: “I will like to say that this is a fulfillment of one of the promises to the people during my electioneering campaign towards 2011 elections, many could attest to it that I had promised then

ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has assured of fresh strategies to address the security challenges faced in the state He said his administration in conjunction with security agencies have stepped-up intelligence gathering “that help to pre-empt cases of robbery and kidnapping and deal with such when it occurs.”

Uduaghan, however, admitted that the hoodlums have become more sophisticated in their modes of operation ,stressing that criminal gangs now appear to be targeting banks in rural areas than in urban centres.

His words: “But of late there has been a

Lawmaker empowers constituents

By Jeremiah Oke

to focus my representation of Ibadan North Constituency when elected on a 3- point Agenda which are, innovative contributions to national issues, attraction of peopleoriented projects and empowerment of constituency members, I am happy today that the third agenda is about to commence openly”.

Awoleye while urging the beneficiaries to make wise use of the items said since no area is exempted from surge of unemployment and its effects, there is a need for political office holders just like him to deem it fit to put in place an enduring empowerment programme aimed at reducing the poverty level and unemployment rate within the area.

The federal lawmaker who reiterated his commitment in ensuring that each constituents in all the 12 wards of the constituency feel his impacts said the second phase of the empowerment scheme which is the opening of a free vocational skills

acquisition centre which will be known as Hon. Awoleye Vocational and Technical Education Centre (HAVATEC) for the training of unemployed graduates, unskilled and jobless school leavers in a skills technical and vocational trades within a duration of 6-24 months will soon begin . He said outstanding students would be sponsored to sit for NABTEB examination that would enhance upward mobility in their carriers.

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

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According to Ashimu, some fences could be affected during the exercise but no major damage will be done to any building. Ashimi enjoined the Community Development Committee of Itire/Ijesha to work closely with the major contractor in order to ensure that standard approved by government and World Bank are met.

The chairman Mushin Local Government Area, Hon. Olatunde Adepitan, expressed his appreciation to the governor for hearkening to the yearnings of the residents of Itire-Ijesha community. He appealed to the youth to cooperate with the contractor by avoiding extortion of any form.

He said his administration will continue to collaborate with organisation and agencies that will bring development to his council.

•From left: Main Contractor LMDG project Itire/Ijesha road project Eng. Tope Awolola being introduced to Hon. Adepitan by the project director Mr Wale Ashimi.With them are Eng. Akintunde Lawal and Mrs Tayo Oguntona.

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OVERNOR Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State h as called on governments at various levels in the country to give equal opportunities to Nigerian children.

Akpabio reasoned that doing so would give the children hope about the future.

He noted that his administration declared free and compulsory education policy to give the children equal opportunity to excel irrespective of their places of birth.

The governor made the call during an inter-denominational service marking this year’s Children and Democracy Day Celebrations held at Ibom Hall Grounds, in Uyo, the state capital.

His words: “So we must all collectively give hope to our children irrespective of their places of birth. Nigerian children may

•Uduaghan

Akwa Ibom From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

not be born on the same day, but governments should give them equal opportunities to excel.

That’s what we have done in Akwa Ibom State through free, compulsory education for all children.”

He recalled that last year, his administration rescued about 650 children who were branded as “child witches and wizards”, accommodated, fed and gave them free education to realise their potentials of becoming future leaders in the country.

Akpabio said: “In 2011, our administration had to rehabilitate children who were termed ‘’witches’’ and who never had hope for the

Elechi warns against communal clashes

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HE Ebonyi State Governor Chief Martin Elechi has vowed not to embark on any projects in the various communities that are engulfed in communal crisis as this is capable of exposing the lives of expatriates, their staff and equipment to dangers.

Chief Elechi who disclosed this during the Democracy Day celebration at the Abakaliki Township Stadium, noted that the administration would not waste its time, resources to provide social amenities in any community unless peace is guaranteed.

According to the State Governor; “In some cases, we have manpower and the financial constraints, but in some others it is the wave of insecurity prevalent in those communities that constitutes the forbidding factors. No contractor would want to risk his life or lives of his staff and even his stock of equipment in an environment which is crisis-prone.

Abakaliki From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

“I want, therefore, to make it abundantly clear that this administration will not waste its time in trying to provide social amenities in any communities unless peace is guaranteed. Our policy, No Peace, No

Amenities shall apply strictly; and even where projects are already on-going, we shall not hesitate to terminate same, if public peace is threatened”.

Chief Elechi stated that the warning became necessary in view of the widespread communal clashes which the state has experienced in EzzaEzillo in Ishielu Local Government Area, AkpoOmaka in Ikwo Local Government Area, Oshiegbe in Ezza North Local Government Area among others.

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Group holds seminar HE Full Gospel Business Men’s F e l l o w s h i p International,Southwest Zone 3 is organising a business seminar on June 8 and 9. It is part of its corporate social responsibility and the objective is to encourage the culture of excellence in business, professional and carrer life.

The seminar, which has Emerging Opportunities for entrepreneurs in a transforming Nigeria as its theme, hopes to stimulate growth, eradicate poverty and empower youths seeking for white collar jobs that are non existent.

Speaking on the seminar, the District Coordinator, Mr Fola Aguda, said the meeting will impart skill and integrity in career and business.

He said: “Our focus is to create a forum where the public can be taught how to run business and strengthen the youth to be self employed”. He called on small business owners, those aspiring to go into business and those seeking to reposition their career to attend the seminar with a token fee of N10,000, Knowing full well that Nigeria is a mono cultural economy, the seminar wishes to unravel the following puzzles – what can be done to stimulate

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agricultural and industrial development and what is the disposition of the current administration to these issues. Besides, what government policies, programmes and incentives exist for the curious entrepreneurs, According to him”, if your professional practice, consultancy or small business is not meeting goals and targets, it’s time to reappraise your commitment, skill, network of contacts, opportunities and training needs.

This seminar will be of immense benefit to you.”

About 7,500 participants are expected with eminent speakers with topics such as understanding the Nigerian incentive based risk sharing system for Agricultural lending, Stimulating investment in cottage industrial development in Nigeria, Running an effective marketing campaign, among others will be discussed.

Eminent speakers expected are the Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Minister of Agriculture, Dr Adesina Akinwunmi, President, Sharon Group of Hotels, Arch Ifeanyi Odedo; Director-General SMEDAN, Alhaji Muhammed Umar Nadada; Mazi Sam Ohuabuwa, Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun, Victory Churches International among others.

The venue is Neca House, Conference Centre I.A Hakeem Balogun way; Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

future. The testimony of those children today gives us cause for a thanksgiving, which we are gathered today for.

“So the man of God today has encouraged me to continue to be like the Biblical Nehemiah who was not interested in what people said about him, but continued to do the work of God.”

‘Youths are cornerstone of a nation’ HE Chairman, Ijebu East Local Government Council of Ogun State Nigeria, Mrs Iyabode Olubukanla Bakre has described youths as the cornerstone of the nation.

She said this during this year’s Children’s Day Celebration organised by the Local Government which held at the St.Brendan’s Grammar School, Ogbere. She stated that the future of any nation lies with the youths, as they are the hope and aspiration and the foundation upon which a nation is built.

Mrs Bakre, according to a statement from the Council’s Senior Information Officer, Mr Tope Oyekan, observed that the rate of children’s involvement in social vices such as cultism, armed robbery, thuggery, indecent dressing, pornography and other violent acts is quite alarming. She therefore urged parents to monitor the activities of their wards by ensuring that they belong to good groups.

She also charged the children thus; “My children and youths in Ijebu East Local Government, you should realise the huge investment of government and your parents in your education and general well-being. I am of the opinion that this local government and your parents deserve good returns in terms of patriotism, respect for constituted authorities, high academic performance and self-discipline.”

The chairman stated that as part of her administration’s effort towards complementing the free education programme of the Senator Ibikunle Amosun – led administration, 100,000 free exercise books shall be distributed freely to schools before the end of the current term.

High point of the day was a march past by pupils and children from primary and secondary schools as well as voluntary/nongovernmental organisations from the local government area with the chairman taking the salute.

HE Redeemed Christian Church of God Covenant of Peace Parish will begin a 30-day vigil today and end on Saturday, June 30 at 38/40 Lowa Street, Jumofak BusStop, Ikorodu Lagos. The programme which has “While Men slept” as theme, is an annual marathon prayer session.

Speaking on the programme during a special rally organised by the pastorate of the church, the host, Pastor Olaitan Aromolaran said, this vigil programme is meant to address barrage of evil attacks on people •Mrs Iyabode Bakre with members of transition committee in a group photograph with while asleep. He said: “during this period of Rev. Fr. Nnanga 30 days vigil God will deliver every one who attends the programme as tears will be wiped away” He urged everyone to pray ceaselessly.

Other anointed men of God expected to minister at the programme include, Pastor HE National Leader of the Action to youths while formulating polices. “Therefore David Kuo, Pastor J.T. Kalejaiye, Prophet G. Congress of Nigeria, (ACN), Asiwaju government and trusted political office holders Lawal, Pastor Niyi Aniya, Rev Blessing Ajayi, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been should always consider the youth and children honoured with Crystal Recognition award before making any policy and should put in Prophet Olowoporoku. of Yoruba Leader of this Generation by the place legal and economic framework that will Citinet Group International, a non- help the children develop rapidly”. governmental. It was during its 2012 Dignitaries at the event include: Chief Henry Children’s Day Dinner party.

Ajomale, Lagos State ACN chairman, Otunba Tinubu was honoured for his selfless Denge Anifowose,Alhaji and Alhaja Kuburat service to humanity, his monumental Adeogun, MAO Petroleum, Mrs Kunbi contributions to make life worth living for Osifeso,Mrs M.O.Williams,Mrs O.A. Aina, the common man, his empowerment drive, Alhaji Aziz Adekunle Lawal among others. his education and health policies and his love for the less privileged in the society.

SUN motors has announced that it has reCitinet Group International is charged introduced attractive incentives for lovers of with promoting peace and providing the Nissan products. scholarships to children and the less Nissan is known to be leaders in pick-ups, privileged in the country and the West utility vans and commercial buses.

African sub-region.

It is currently running charming sales of The group, in collaboration with the zero interest financing scheme through its Nigerian Red Cross Society, had organised buy now, pay later roll-over campaign, a dinner party to fete the children and the affording its customers up to N1million less privileged on the Children’s Day at the savings on selected Nissan model cars.

Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lekki Lagos.

The company made this known last week Earlier in a topic entitled: The Nigerian in Lagos when it re-inaugurated her retail Children cry out loud for a sustainable National business, where it acquainted its customers Development, Mrs Catherine Popoola had of fresh plans to raise the ante for Nissan by described the youth as a veritable tool for positioning the brand among leading national development. She attempted to marquees in the market, its marketing and differentiate between national growth and communications manager, Mrs Olufunke national development, noting that a country Ayodele said. Its objective is to develop a may be growing without developing. unique brand personality for Nissan through She stressed the importance of youths in its brand initiatives. the maintenance and survival of a country.

“Armed with these achievements, Sun She said recent studies show that our motors is carving a niche for Nissan and children are destined to achieve greater subsequently repositioning the brand among accomplishments than their parents partly the first three leading vehicles on the local because of the advancement in technology. sales chart”.

She advised government to give priority •CEO, Citinet, Mr Akintonwa with the less privileged children at the event.

NGO honours Tinubu

• A beneficiary receiving a hair dryer. With them standing (second left) is Hon. Awoleye

• Akpabio

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Church holds programme

‘Roads our priority’ USHIN Local Government Area in Lagos State is set to benefit from massive road construction in the Itire/Ijesha axis of the state through the Lagos Millennium Delopment Growth programme sponsored by the World Bank.

According to the project director Mr Wale Ashinmi, gone are the days when government would intend to bring development to a community and yet in flict everlasting pain on them as it happened in other communities long time ago. Speaking at the unveiling of LMDGP plan for Itire/Ijesha community in Mushin, he explained that over 30 roads are being pencilled down for rehabilitation in this current scheme. He pointed out that the State Governor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fahsola, has recommended the immediate upgrading of about 31 roads within the community.

Akpabio canvasses equal opportunities for children

Delta new dimension in robbery not only in the state but across the country. Robbers have become more sophisticated and they come heavily armed on their victims. They seem to be targeting banks in the rural areas where there are less security mechanisms” He lamented that the activities of the deadly Boko Haram sect have dented the nation’s image.

He said the bombings in some parts of the country had put stakeholders in other parts of the country on their toes.

Uduaghan spoke with reporters in Asaba on the eve of the nation’s Democracy Day celebrations and the first year anniversary of his second term in office as governor of the state.

Dr. Uduaghan however assured banks and other corporate establishments in the state that his administration was poised to tackle the hoodlums headlong.

The governor listed the giant strides his administration has recorded in the areas of infrastructure especially in schools, reduction of unemployment through the micro-credit scheme, scholarship awards to different categories of students, transport, water and health.

According to him, it was the desire of his administration to ensure that the rush abroad

by Nigerians to treat kidney disease is reduced.

To this end Uduaghan said his administration had installed dialysis machines at two stateowned hospitals for treatment of kidney ailments at subsidised rates.

He added that patients with kidney problems at the Warri and Ogharra hospitals could afford to have dialysis at least two times a week while awaiting kidney transplants

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Briefly

Firm to run zero interest schemes

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Egypt’s achievement

Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie U •A life of pulpit activism that ends on the high should remind the Church of its social conscience

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CHILD born on April 13, 1973, when Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie was made Catholic Bishop of Lagos, would now be a 39-year old, beckoning to middle age. Over that nearly 40-year period, His Eminence, who retired at 75 on May 25, had burnished his name in the collective mind of Nigerians as a social conscience of repute and admirable symbol of the Church as an agent of positive change. That was no mean feat, in a social milieu where fickleness and consistent inconsistency ruled the roost.

Anthony Cardinal Okogie’s ecclesiastical place was assured. Ordained a priest on December 11, 1966, he reached the climax of the Roman Catholic priesthood, aside from the Papacy, when Pope John Paul II proclaimed him Cardinal on October 21, 2003, 30 years after he became Bishop of Lagos; and 37 years after ordination as priest. With his retirement in May 2012, his cumulative priestly life totalled some 46 years, in a lifetime of 75 but still counting. That means he started his priesthood at 29, and has since worked in the Lord’s vineyard, touching souls and shaping generations of congregants.

In an illustrious priestly career, he was President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) from 1994 to 2000 and was President of Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria from 1988 to 1994. As Cardinal Priest of Santa Maria del Monte Carmelo a Mostacciano (Blessed Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel of Mostacciano); he was among the cardinals that voted Pope Benedict XIV in the 2005 papal conclave, after the death of Pope John Paul II. All these, in themselves, should have made a distinguished priestly life.

But not with Anthony Cardinal Okogie, a distinguished catholic priest by any yard-

stick and an ever popular and revered figure among parishioners at Holy Cross Catholic Cathedral, Lagos, where he spent the bulk of his priestly life, and where, as Archbishop of the Lagos Metropolitan See, he spent his entire cardinalate.

As a social conscience, he was second to none in his generation. He became Archbishop of Lagos in 1973, a period of rising oil wealth and prosperity, and great secular questioning over spiritual matters.

He is retiring in 2012, a period of great adversity, which has driven much of the religious conformity, which the era of Pentecostalism has brought. Still, all through this period of changing fortunes and contrasting times, Anthony Cardinal Okogie had remained his quintessential social conscience in the best tradition of the practice.

During the military era, he was the first to address his special press conferences on the state of the nation, and how the military rulers should not suffer any illusion that they were accountable to nobody but their guns, since everyone was accountable to God. He fully utilised his offices as President of CAN as well as President of the Catholic Bishops Conference to speak truth to power, even if power effaced culpable and stone-deafness. All through the era, he was a good ambassador of the church as proponent of positive change. His method did not change with the return of democracy.

But perhaps his most dramatic act of social protest came in 2002, when Dr. Okogie offered to die in place of Safiya Hussaini Tungar-tudu, who a Sokoto Shariah court had just condemned to death by stoning, for alleged adultery.

The plank of the archbishop’s protests was two-legged: his perceived sheer in-

justice in religiously condemning a woman, not on the basis of evidence but because everything was rigged against her gender; and the archbishop’s allegations that some elements were using the Shariah system to persecute local Christians. In a milieu of political correctness and contrived compromise for religious peace (most times without justice), that was quite audacious . But then, that was His Eminence for you.

As Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, now Archbishop-Emeritus of Lagos, retires, all we can say is that appreciative Nigerians and the voiceless whose causes he had voiced over almost a 40-year period appreciate his efforts and wish him a happy retirement. The Church should take a cue from the Cardinal’s glittering career and regain its status as the conscience of the nation, rather than collaborators in culpable silence.

We wish the Archbishop-Emeritus blissful retirement.

‘His Eminence, who retired at 75 on May 25, had burnished his name in the collective mind of Nigerians as a social conscience of repute and admirable symbol of the Church as an agent of positive change. That was no mean feat, in a social milieu where fickleness and consistent inconsistency ruled the roost’

Adetokunbo Sofoluwe (1950-2012) • Nigeria has lost a simple, hard-working man

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ITHOUT doubt, the University of Lagos (just renamed Moshood Abiola University by the Jonathan government) and indeed the academic community in Nigeria have lost a rare gem, going by the encomiums that trailed the death, on May 12, of Prof.

Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, the university’s vice-chancellor. Sofoluwe, 62, slumped and later died at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos, shortly after he was rushed to the hospital.

Prof Sofoluwe brought his professional expertise as a computer scientist to bear on administration in the university. Part of his dream was to make the institution an e-university by ensuring a conducive teaching, learning, research and development environment. This has already paid off as the university is the first university in the country to allocate accommodation to students online. Moreover, students can now access their results online, just a few days after their examinations, even as graduating students get their certificates on the convocation days.

This attests to his workaholic nature, because, in some universities, graduates only come for their certificates years after graduation.

For Prof Sofoluwe, the saying that it is not how long but how well strictly adheres. Although he became vice-chancellor on January 31, 2010, some 28 months before his death, he had left indelible marks on the sands of time. For instance, he facilitated many partnerships with both local and foreign academic and business institutions. These included two memoranda of understanding on IT with

the Bells University in Ota, Ogun State, and the University of Lafia in Nasarawa State. The recent donation of N1billion marching grant to the university by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency to establish a maritime institute on the campus was largely facilitated by him.

In spite of his academic and other attainments, Prof Sofoluwe was a simple man to the core; he had no airs about him.

Unlike many other vice-chancellors, he went about his duties without the usual obtrusive security details. In short, he demystified the office of the vice-chancellor, shared jokes with junior and senior members of staff of the university and fellowshipped with his colleagues at the Staff Club, most often picking their bills there.

Prof Sofoluwe, the third alumnus to head the university, was born on April 15, 1950. He graduated from the university with a Second Class Upper Division Honours in Special Mathematics in June 1973. He bagged the prestigious German Scholarship award for Academic Brilliance during his undergraduate years and did his National Youth Service Corps Scheme in the old South Eastern State as a pioneer member of the scheme. After his youth service, he won a Commonwealth scholarship to study at Edinburgh University, Scotland, where he earned his Master’s degree in 1975 and a doctorate in 1981.

Prof Sofoluwe started his teaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Lagos in 1976 and rose through the ranks to become a professor in Octo-

ber 1996. Sofoluwe was a two-time Acting Head of the Department of Computer Science, Dean of the Faculty of Science, a member of the Governing Council of the university and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Management Services, before his appointment as vicechancellor.

With his demise, the country has lost a humble, hard working and peace-loving man. He had a lofty dream of making the university one of the 100 best globally and was working assiduously towards that goal before his sudden death. No doubt, the university has lost a man well loved by staff and students and would be missed by all. However, the best way to immortalise him is for whoever succeeds him to ensure that his dreams do not die with him.

‘He had a lofty dream of making the university one of the 100 best globally and was working assiduously towards that goal before his sudden death. No doubt, the university has lost a man well loved by staff and students and would be missed by all. However, the best way to immortalise him is for whoever succeeds him to ensure that his dreams do not die with him’

NCERTAINTIES about the nation’s future don’t diminish the progress it has made in the year since President Hosni Mubarak was overthrown, as witnessed by the historic election this week.

It’s too early to say that Egypt’s presidential election has redeemed the promise of last year’s popular uprising against the country’s authoritarian president, Hosni Mubarak. A definitive verdict will depend on how the eventual winner chooses to govern (and on whether the military will allow him to govern). But the election, which began last week and is likely to continue in a runoff next month, was a powerful and poignant exercise in democracy.

Despite reports of irregularities at some polling places, more than 20 million Egyptians participated in a competitive election featuring candidates from across the political spectrum, including more and less doctrinaire Islamists and figures from the Mubarak era. Some popular candidates, including Khairat Shater, the first choice of the Muslim Brotherhood, were unfortunately barred from the ballot by an election commission, but the roster remained a diverse one.

Although official results won’t be announced until Tuesday, the Brotherhood, which already dominates the new Egyptian parliament, has predicted that its candidate, Mohamed Morsi, will compete in a runoff next month against Ahmed Shafik, a former commander in the Egyptian air force who served briefly as prime minister in the waning days of the Mubarak regime. Other contenders include Abdel Moneim Aboul Fotouh, a somewhat more liberal Islamist; socialist Hamdeen Sabahi; and Amr Moussa, a former foreign minister and head of the Arab League.

A Morsi-Shafik contest would pose a stark choice between a representative of Egypt’s old order who has emphasized the importance of social stability and a candidate who would join with parliament in accentuating Egypt’s Muslim identity, though the extent to which he would promote Islamic law is unclear. In such a polarized race, both candidates could have difficulty attracting support from outside their core constituencies.

Now as during the protests against the Mubarak regime, scenarios about Egypt’s political future must reckon with the reality of the country’s ever-influential armed forces, which are likely to insist on an outsized role — and not just in defense policy — regardless of the election’s outcome. Bizarrely, Egyptian voters are electing a president before the powers of the office are defined in a new constitution. That state of affairs works to the military’s advantage in the coming struggle for influence.

Still, uncertainties about the future don’t detract from the fact that in this election, as in the parliamentary elections that were concluded earlier this year, Egyptians are practicing the democracy that was preached almost a year and a half ago in Tahrir Square.

It’s a historic achievement.

– Los Angeles Times

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

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

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IR: Rashidi Yekini was one of the most prolific and African football strikers in history. He wrote his name in gold in the African soccer encyclopedia, winning the African footballer of the year in 1993.

Yekini also left behind unparallelled records of achievement as the Super Eagles’ all-time top scorer with 37 goals in 58 appearances.

He was part of the team that won African Nation’s cup in Tunisia 1994 and also participated in the 1994 World cup (where he scored Nigeria’s first-ever goal in a World Cup, in a 3–0 win against Bulgaria.

His celebration after netting the goal became one of the iconic images of the tournament and the 1998 FIFA World Cups.

Though not well catered for while living by the Nigerian government, Rashidi Yekini should be recognised publicly as a hero who sacrificed his skills, energy, time and resources to bring joy to millions of Nigerians while alive. The San Siro Stadium, home to both Associazione Calcio Milan, popularly known as AC Milan and Football Club Internazionale Milano known as Inter Milan was on March 3, 1980, named in honour of Giuseppe Meazza, the two-time World Cup winner (1934, 1938) who played for Internazionale, and briefly for Milan, in the 1930s and 1940s.

Giuseppe Meazza was honoured for his dedication, commitment and passion for the Azzurri national colour just like Rashidi Yekini did

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FG should immortalise Rashidi Yekini for Nigeria in Super Eagles’ colour.

Spain with the world most decorated football club Real Madrid, also demonstrated how important it is to honour soccer heroes. Nuevo Estadio Charmantin, today’s world most decorated football cathedral was inaugurated on 14 December 1947 and is owned by Real Madrid Club de Fútbol with current capacity of 85,454 spectators. This world most prestigious football venue was renamed ‘Santiago Bernabeu’ in honour of Real Madrid former player and chairman, Santiago

Bernabeu Yeste on of January 4, 1955 while Bernabeu was alive. When he died on June 2, 1978, the Spanish Football Federation named the Spanish summer trophy “Trofeo Santiago Bernabeu” after him again because of his contribution to the Spanish football development.

Santiago Bernabéu (Metro de Madrid) - a metro station outside the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium was also named after this iconic soccer loving figure.

What about Ferenc Puskas? Puskas played for Hungarian national team,

scoring 84 goals in 85 appearances, wildey regarded as the European best striker of his time. In 1958, two years after the Hungarian revolution, Puskas emigrated to Spain where he played for Real Madrid with many accolades for individual and club but was granted full pardon in 1993 by Hungarian government and returned to his native country; Hungary. In 2002, even after his long term exile in Spain, the Hungarian government renamed her national stadium ‘the Nepstadion stadium to Stadion Puskas in his

Re: As ACN Ondo picks candidate

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IR: My attention has been drawn to a an article with the above caption published in The Nation of Tuesday May 29, authored by one Yomi Idowu, a political analyst. I am compelled to make the following observations.

First, I find the article in bad taste capable of undermining the spirit of harmony and brotherhood already existing among my humble

self and my fellow aspirants. I had no prior knowledge of the said article neither was I involved in any conversation whatsoever with any reporter or the Idowu, the author of the article with the intention of making public any analysis of contestants pedigree and chances in clinching the ACN governorship ticket in Ondo State.

The said article was in my opin-

ion absolutely uncalled for and misleading considering the fact that all ACN aspirants are eminently qualified to be governor with equal chances of clinching the party ticket.

That it is my suspicion that the said article was sponsored by the Labour Party and its cohorts in the media with the intention of causing disaffection among the ACN contestants, especially as they have

Jonathan should let UNILAG be

IR: I thank President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for deeming it fit to honour Nigeria’s martyr of democracy, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola ‘for making the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of justice and truth.’ This worthy and meritorious recognition is long overdue considering the enormous contributions of Bashorun MKO Abiola to national development.

I however join the staffs, students and alumni of the University of Lagos in rejecting the name change of the 50 year old institution. My rejection of that rebaptism is for the following reasons: Chief MKO Abiola was a national icon whose fame, philanthropy and political mandate superseded his South-west

honour and when he died in 2007, on October 1, 2009 FIFA announced the introduction of FIFA Puskas award for the player who has scored the “most beautiful goal” over the past year with Chritiano Ronaldo the first recipient for his goal against FC porto in the 2009-2010 UEFA champions league while playing for Manchester United.

Samuel Okwaraji died on the field while playing for Nigeria but it is sad that even his aged mother in the village has not be remembered by the Nigerian government through the Nigeria Football Federation. To boost the morale of the young talents and to foster commitment in national service, I am urging the Federal government to immortalise the first player to score Nigeria’s first world cup goal by renaming the National Stadium Abuja after Yekini.

• Onogwu Isah Muhammed Lokoja, Kogi State

region, thus the monument that should have been named after MKO should be outside his region and preferably in Abuja. The National Assembly, I learnt, had passed a resolution that being a pillar of sport in Africa; the Abuja National Stadium should be named after Chief Abiola. What the president ought to have done was to have heeded this resolution. Alternatively, the president should consider any of the following other available options – recognize and declare June 12 as the authentic Democracy Day and make such a day public holiday. This is in the mould of what the American Government did in honour of Martin Luther King. Federal Government could also consider naming the Aso Presidential Villa or Abuja

Three Arm Zone after the winner of the June 12 presidential election.

Even, University of Abuja would be in order to be renamed MKO Abiola University after due consultations with the university authorities.

The President, as an academic, ought to have known that this is a democracy and that due consultation with University of Lagos authorities – the University Council and Senate or at the very least the University Vice Chancellor - ought to have preceded the announcement of the name change. This was not done. Moreover, being an institution established by an Act of Parliament (April 1962), it will take an amendment to that Act by the National Assembly for that pronouncement to be valid and legal. It has been dis-

covered that no such amendment has been sponsored by the president.

Whither due process in all these?

UNILAG is a universal brand whose status should not be diminished by making it look like a Yoruba institution. A lot of resources which the institution can ill-afford will also need to be spent on the rebranding of the university if the Federal Government goes ahead with the name change. It is yet not too late for the president to reverse himself on this faux pas. I do not want my dear UNILAG to be MAULed. Mr. President, let the staus quo ante before May 29, be maintained, it is not yet a fait accompli.

• Jide Ojo Abuja

in the recent times made Dr Segun Abraham their target of attacks.

On my part, I enjoy flourishing relationship with every other aspirants and my friendship with all of them predated the current political dispensation. Therefore, there is absolutely no reason for me to willfully attempt to influence decision of our party hierarchy through obnoxious publications or by sponsoring defamatory insinuations as this has never been part of my life style and belief. More so, I have worked really hard to project my image and vision to the people of Ondo State in the course of my campaign tours.

Conclusively, I hereby dissociate my self and my campaign organization from the said publication in all its entirety and I describe it as gross misrepresentation of facts and circumstances on the ground and I want to reassure all my coaspirants that I love all of them wholeheartedly with absolute respect for their persons. Whilst wishing all the ACN aspirants well, I pledge my support to any lucky aspirant that emerge winner of the party primary.

• Pastor Bisi Aduloju Segun Abraham Movement Akure.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012 16

21

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Reality Bites Y

Olatunji Ololade

OU cannot fashion a wit out of two half-wits. Figures why President Goodluck Jonathan’s democracy day gift irrepressibly stinks; many – students, alumnus etc – can simply not understand how his decision to rename University of Lagos (UNILAG), Moshood Abiola University, Lagos (MAULAG), will improve the lot of the school, the nation’s educational system and democracy. Thus they protest. And to give vent to their grievances, students of the school staged a heartfelt protest against what they deemed Mr. President’s highhandedness.

However, in their protest subsists the irony of an accidental metaphor; on Facebook, the social networking website, two female students of the school bearing placards with the inscription: “Unilag 4live” pose with poise and their oft famed but irreparably defunct “UNILAG swagger.” Not quite impressive, is it? Bet the school’s array of seasoned academia failed to teach them the proper use of “live” and “life.”

The fault is probably not with their lecturers; the two smiley girls are probably just some other regrettable embodiments of Alexander Pope’s fabled lamentation of the shallow intellect. Like Pope’s “bookful blockhead,” they ignorantly read and write, with loads of learned lumber in their heads. Pity.

Let me not single out the selfstyled, indefatigable studentship of UNILAG, my bad; MAULAG undergraduates and alumnus for Nigeria

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may yet prosper by certain very few products of their knowledge mill if they ever truly exist or would ever truly choose to exist. The problem is hardly exclusively MAULAG’s; every citadel of learning in the country currently asphyxiates in the grip of such colossal rot afflicting the country’s educational system and the country as a whole.

Russell’s estimation couldn’t have been more apt; as the trouble with our world as it was with his’ is that the stupid are still cocksure and the intelligent, still full of doubt.

Thus our uncomfortable indifference and silence in the face of monstrosities we ought to rebuff. And our knack for outrage over the trivial, and oftentimes at the wrong hour.

MAULAG undergraduates and President Jonathan further epitomize the Nigerian decline. Battered and irredeemably overwhelmed by the rush of socio-economic failures and political misadventures plaguing his administration, President Jonathan on May 29, could not resist the cheap comfort of a political cheap shot. On the other hand, MAULAG undergraduates could not resist their base inclinations to behave true to type – they see nothing else worthy of protest across the nation but they took to the streets to protest a name change claiming it has tainted their ‘swag.’

Both parties, the government and the student populace, are essentially victims of an inordinate lust for acceptance and acclaim – which

DO State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria, (ACN) concluded its referendum (not campaign) last Friday where its brand, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole was given the nod to continue with his good work in the state. Edo people in the 18 council areas gave a resounding YES to his quest to remain their chief servant for the next four years.

This will further be confirmed and given the stamp of authority come July 14, about six weeks from now. When the referendum train moved to the nooks and crannies of the state in the last four weeks, it was a cry for more dividends of democracy from a people thirsty for the good things of life. A people that have suffered all kinds of deprivations and neglect in the hands of their past leaders, leaders they freely gave their mandate in the spirit of social contract only for it to be betrayed. Now they have seen a miracle worker who has come to wipe out their tears. So, why should they let him go? They hold on tight to him, crying on his shoulders to continue the good work started November 2008.

Edo people are enlightened and they are politically conscious of their rights, this is why no mortal will exchange their apple for orange. Oshiomhole is a sweet home-grown apple, a blessing to our dear state and indeed Nigeria. The grand design by the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, to rob Edo people of their apple was truncated recently by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. The PDP, in collusion with some dubious and greedy INEC officials had perfected plans to pad the electoral registers in the 192 wards in the state with some strange names. The registers were also to be mutilated and the names joggled up to give the PDP an undeserved advantage at the polls.

By the time a voter goes round from one polling unit to the other looking for his/her name to cast vote, he/she gets tired and frustrated, the good intention is defeated as he/ she abandons it and goes home. Of course, everybody knows that there is time limit for accreditation and actual voting. To further compound the problem of the innocent voter, movement is restricted on voting day.

This was the evil plot of the PDP. To successfully execute this wicked agenda, these

Dumbed by stardom (2) leaves them vulnerable to the base and reprehensible, even on the scale of vanities. Mr. President’s broadcast and MAULAG students’ response could essentially be described as what the late William Shakespeare likens to a knavish speech sleeping in a foolish ear.

Were Mr. President not given to the lure to hastily patronize certain ethnic and primordial sentiments, he wouldn’t have taken such laudable action in the time and manner he did; the students on the other hand wouldn’t make much of his desperate lunge for acceptance and applause were they not cut of the same vainglorious stock that had been bane to the country’s progress from time immemorial. Both parties are unarguably, pitiful attention-seekers.

An inordinate yearning for celebrity status becomes the Achilles heel of both Mr. President and the embittered students. It’s a problem emblematic of the larger Nigerian society and culture. Trivialities commands optimal attention while core issues of development are scorned.

Having shot to eminence on the platter of novelty, his presumed meekness of character and self-confessed poverty and humility, President Jonathan became a folk hero of sort. He attained cult status and garnered appreciable following even among MAULAG undergraduates, an attainment further guaranteed by his ample deployment of the media and pop culture.

Like former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, Jonathan had a shot at playing celebrity and pop idol often in the same breath but unlike Blair, Jonathan didn’t have to strike a pose with an electric guitar for a tabloid cover as Blair did in 2003, nor did he have to invade a far-off

island or perform some great feat of heroism to become celebrity idol.

He simply had to look meek. The few times he spoke, he sought the coziness of far-reaching platitudes and self-confessed humble roots thus his frequent revelations of a childhood with no shoes and the bleak reality of being a fisherman’s son.

Jonathan, the politician, played the underdog and the pop star to popular appeal and as if to confirm the notion that politics and popular culture were being ever more intimately linked, a greater section of the Nigerian electorate caved to the wave of empathy and sentimental reckoning that preceded his acceptance and eventual election as President.

The Nigerian society thus fashioned Jonathan into a hero of sort; it created a celebrity out of an ordinary individual and imposed upon him an unprecedented pressure to play to suspicious galleries and over-achieve. Contrary to popular expectations, President Jonathan would become everything he wasn’t expected to become. He would pander to whims and interests other than the multitude of dreams that dared reality and rewrote history to make him the most conscientious statesman Nigeria was expected to have in a long while.

What emerged later was a President that removed fuel subsidy and is now on a desperate mission to increase tariff for barely existent electricity supply in the country among other insensitivities.

And that would not be the end of the story. From the moment he emerged as folk hero and evolved to become a socio-political villain of sort, Jonathan became a living proof of the absolute vanity of mix-

This PDP is not talking

By Ebomhiana Musa agents of darkness deployed 472 fully calibrated Direct Data Capture machines to all the wards. Were they preparing for a fresh voter registration exercise? One may be tempted to ask. There have been precedence in Adamawa, Kebbi, Sokoto, Bayelsa and Kogi states where gubernatorial polls took place and continuous voters’ exercise were held in the council headquarters only.

In fact, the latest being Cross Rivers, the old register was used without an update, yet, heavens did not fall as a winner emerged following “a smooth and peaceful election”. So, why was Edo’s own going to be different?

Even if the exercise was necessary in the state, 18 DDC Machines would have sufficed for the 18 councils. And the 192 wards would have required only 192.

So what were INEC and its collaborators going to do with the 472 machines deployed?

A question begging for an answer. Thank God that the bubble burst on their faces. Was it a mere coincidence that security operative in Benin paraded one Aigbe Goddie who was caught with a DDC machine? This young man, now in the police custody, has started singing like a parrot.

He must face the full weight of the law with his collaborators. It’s now clear to all where the old political spent force from Uromi relied on when he boasted “that given the arrangement going on in the state and in conjunction with Abuja we are sure that the PDP will return to Edo State come July 2012.”

To God be the glory, it remains in the realm of the dream of the old man who chose to have a nap in the afternoon out of sheer idleness. Even the PDP chair in the state, Chief Dan Orbih has been rolling about the whole place shouting wildly that his party was going to return to Osadebey Avenue. But they have been disappointed big time.

The fighting Comrade has kicked them in the ass. The PDP is one party that has never believed in election nay, power of the ballot.

Rather, it believes in consensus.

And it makes no pretences about it, hence it is firmly entrenched in its constitution. As the ACN is strategizing and crisscrossing the nooks and crannies of the state meeting with the people, traditional rulers, students, market women, professional bodies, farmers, artisans, drivers, okada riders etc, the PDP is busy holding nocturnal meetings, oiling its rigging machines and plotting how to subvert the people’s will come July 14.

The God of equity, fairness and development will surely thwart their evil plot in day time. But one should really sympathise with the PDP because you do not give what you do not have. Again, what is the party and its product going to tell the Edo people, especially after a wasted opportunity? Here was a party trusted with a mandate but chose to fritter it away like the Biblical prodigal son.

As Oshiomhole is pointing at concrete achievements on ground as dividends of democracy, the PDP candidate Airhiavbere is still SEEING HOPE. This man deserves sympathy as the hawks in the PDP only lured him out of his shell for political embarrassment.

He has thrown his hat into the ring, so no going back at this point. He must learn to leave with it, praying fervently for July 14 to come so that the cup will pass over him.

But what will he be telling the people of the state if he chooses to break his silence, less than five weeks to the official close of all forms of campaign? Elder Sunny Uyigue, a former chairman of the PDP in the state and an elder in all ramification recently granted an explosive press interview where he took his former party to the cleaners.

Hear him: “We failed as a party in the state and that is why I said it will be wicked for anybody to see what Oshiomhole is doing today and say you want to vote for the PDP. How? Unless we are able to counter the man’s development strides in the state, then you will say we stand a chance of winning. But how

ing contemporary politics with pop culture as a winning strategy. In becoming the ‘people’s choice’ Jonathan waved goodbye to statesmanship and embraced more expedient and commonplace politics.

Prior to his election, the issues were never really about unmanageable poverty, persistent insecurity or soaring unemployment rates, but of his touted humility and grace.

After his election, the issues were not his perceived incompetence and insincerity, rather his team of loyalists and media apologists continually allege a morbid bid by his political detractors to bring down his government on the altar of bitter politics and tribalism.

Mr. President has suddenly discovered that he may have waded in way over his head by becoming President. But even so, he has failed to acknowledge the actual import of his Presidency on Nigeria.

Two competing value systems revolving around the man he was expected to become and the man he has chosen to become are continually incited by Mr. President often with disastrous consequences.

President Jonathan indeed, gives expression to a form of politicking that provokes a medley of scorn and insecurities in the process.

Nigerians were wrong. They were totally mistaken in their expectations that the emergence of President Jonathan would somehow guarantee the future health of democracy and the attainment of their dreams. But laying the blame on Jonathan would be tantamount to giving a terrier a bad name.

Jonathan was never really at fault; he simply thrives on the blissful duplicity and sentimentalism of the Nigerian state.

• To be continued…

SMS only 08038551123 (tunji_ololade@yahoo.co.uk)

can you counter what people are seeing everyday? “ The political juggernaut is not done yet. He caps it with this:” Tell me what the PDP candidate will say he wants to do that Oshiomhole has not done? And the problem Airhiavbere will get at the polls is the Binis are already looking at him as Anenih’s creation and there is no way the Binis can allow Anenih to rear his head up politically again in this state.”

Need I say more? This political giant is short of saying that the PDP can never win election in Edo state as long as the Uromi chief remains on this terrestrial plane. The hope of the PDP was further sealed at a meeting last week when President Goodluck Jonathan met with the party leaders from the state at the Villa.

The leaders left there in total disappointment. Some of them managed to wear dry smiles of deception. But sources say that President told them the bitter truth. “Go back home and work hard towards a free and fair election devoid of violence.” A week after that crucial meeting, the supposed giant is still sleeping, hoping for manna to drop from heavens.

But someone should remind them that they better start cracking and get to the field as the days of manna are gone for good. Even the Holy books say the lazy must not eat.

The referendum train moves to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Benin, June 7 for the grand finale for the great movement while looking forward to July 14 with optimism.

• Musa is Senior Special Assistant (Media) to the Comrade Governor

‘This political giant is short of saying that the PDP can never win election in Edo state as long as the Uromi chief remains on this terrestrial plane. The hope of the PDP was further sealed at a meeting last week when President Goodluck Jonathan met with the party leaders from the state at the Villa’

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION ‘To die completely is to be forgotten; he who dies and is not forgotten, lives forever.’

———Samuel Butler OMETIME ago, somebody called Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola made indelible imprints in this part of the universe. He was a Nigerian southerner with legendary national cum international incontrovertible goodwill.

Abiola was an eleemosynary and a philanthropist of repute. That man who was more commonly addressed as MKO, his initials, during his lifetime, contested for the presidency of this country and won in what perhaps can truly be termed as the first Pan-Nigerian electoral victory. No other election, past or present, can equal the widespread global acceptability and fairness accorded that election of June 12, 1993. In a dubious systemic conspiracy, the man was denied the mandate freely given him by millions of Nigerians across geographical boundaries. Eventually, he was arrested, detained for years and finally murdered for demanding the restoration of an election victory that one despotic man from Minna, Niger state, criminally annulled. The rest is history!

The death of Abiola brought forth the dawn of this dispensation in 1999. Rather than pick June 12 of every year as Democracy Day, the powerful anti-democratic forces that are pretending to be more democratic than the democratic process chose May 29 of every year as their own Democracy Day. Since over 13 years ago, the memories of June 12 and particularly that of Abiola and thousands of Nigerian martyrs of that struggle have consistently been assaulted by democratic pretenders in the corridors of power. They carry on the affairs of government without a whiff of recognition to the man that made the constitutional bounties of today a reality.

However when President Goodluck Jonathan during this year’s officially foisted May 29 Democracy Day celebration tried to give tepid acknowledgement to the memory and name of Abiola, the controversy that trailed that move is deafening enough to the extent that it doused the attention recently given to the activities of the destructive sect called Boko Haram. What did Mr Jonathan do wrong? He announced the renaming with immediate effect of the University of Lagos, Akoka, to Moshood Abiola University, Lagos. The students of the institution went on rampage barricading major roads in Lagos under the guise of protesting against the recognition accorded that great Nigerian by the Jonathan administration.

Surprisingly too, the alumni association of the institution and even prominent cum pre-eminent

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OW much difference a year can make in the life of a man! One year has passed so soon since President Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe (?) Jonathan took the reins of power in Nigeria as President and Commander- in- Chief of the Armed Forces. Coming on the wings of massive electoral victory and effusive national goodwill, Jonathan promised transformational leadership and quality change. What do we have one year after? Transmogrification more like.

In just twelve months, President Jonathan has transmuted from the lovable dove poised to bear the cross of the people to an insensate specie ensconced on a carousel and reveling in a ride he wishes should never end. Nothing seems to matter now but the ride. That, unfortunately, is where we are now.

Just one year and the question is not whether the Jonathan era has failed but how irretrievably so. Or if we must turn the sunny side of the question, what is left to be salvaged? But first, how did Jonathan move from the most loved man in Nigeria to the most despised and disparaged both in public and private?

Did he per chance dissipate too much energy and resources trying to win an election only to get stumped by the job or is the job truly beyond his ken as some have suggested?

Is the problem with the team? Not likely; he has a passable team but lacks an undergirding philosophy. He clearly does not have a handle on the job. Since he failed to take charge of his administration and by extension the government, some smart people have chosen to fill the vacuum with their own machinations. Many in his team have taken advantage of his obvious shortcomings to run wild and take unbridled liberties. We have been assailed by unprecedented corruption in the past one year. No other leader, not even during the military rulers did we witness such assault on the treasury especially in the oil sector.

It is not only that the treasury is being ravaged but worse is that the president won’t deign to do anything about it. He won’t even dare to take umbrage not to talk of sanctioning the offending appointees. No result whatsoever has been delivered to the people yet the treasury has been hollowed out . ‘Subsidies’ are harshly removed (diesel, kerosene, petrol, electricity, etc.)and in the midst of all this, the government craves for more cash like a man who has taken an overdose of brine

Abiola: See what Obasanjo caused!

•Obasanjo Nigerians have been reining torrents of condemnations on the president for renaming University of Lagos after the late Abiola. I have no doubt in my mind that those people and body have the democratic franchise to take whatever opinion on this matter. Many respected learned seniors have espoused legal arguments to back up their aversion to that move. The polity is consistently being over heated and now the government has ordered the closure of that institution.

Whatever it is, the government has said that the renaming will not be reversed which is to show that it wants to assert itself before the situation gets out of hand. Personally, l do not see anything wrong

with the renaming of UNILAG after Abiola. If anything, the current students and even the alumni and friends of the school should see the opportunity as an honour that is worth identifying with.

We should all stop looking at the image and weak character of President Jonathan that took the decision. We should all realise that from the black pot comes the white pap. Even if Jonathan has failed woefully to move this country forward since his assumption of power, that does not mean that he should not be acknowledged at all for bestowing this honour on Abiola.

Perhaps we should ask ourselves why Balogun Olusegun Obasanjo, two-term president of this country from 1999-2007, did not deem it fit to honour Abiola in all his days in power. One can still recollect that Senator Femi Okurounmu, then representing Ogun Central Senatorial District raised a motion that was carried and a resolution passed in the first-set Senate to the effect that then newly built National Stadium, Abuja, should be named after Abiola. Obasanjo ignored this resolution and carried on as if the Senate was inconsequential. Nobody or group of students came out then to protest against the despotic Obasanjo. For eight years, l still could not remember where a single mention was made of Abiola in any part of Obasanjo’s speech. He did everything, though futilely, to trample on Abiola’s indubitable democratic records.

Now, somebody came and gave recognition to Abiola without prodding- no matter how small, the majority that are overheating the polity unduly that could not say anything when Obasanjo

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

Jonathan’s first year of transmogrification craves for water. Money doesn’t just seem to be enough for this government. Now there is a rush to borrow about $8 billion yet there is no shortfall in our oil production and export; there is no force majeure, just a rampaging army of money-mongers.

What is to be done? First President Jonathan must realize that there is acute SUFFERING in the land. He seems totally oblivious of this fact. Prices have soared and inflation has set in especially since the so-called subsidy removal. The average Nigerian is by far worse off now than when they gleefully trooped out to vote for him a little over a year ago. In fact if election were to be held now, Jonathan would suffer a crushing defeat and it would not matter whether his opponent was a Dick or Harriet.

To salvage a bit of his Presidency, Jonathan must fight corruption and be seen to be doing so by quickly chucking out some highly corrupt members of his cabinet. There is no other path to tread unless we are to assume that he himself is intricately woven into the sordid plot. Second, he must set targets to deliver some key results in the next 18 months, for example, build refineries, stabilize power supply, build the second Niger Bridge and the East-West Road, among other tangible deliverables. Third, he must drastically cut wastes and get a handle on the security apparatus by driving them to do a decent work in respect of Boko haram and kidnappers. These are the very basics; the situation is dire and we cannot begin to talk about in-

stitutional changes and abstract concepts of law, constitution and transcendental social rebirth anymore. A man who sees little with his eyes wide open can only see so much when he closes them. We must bestir this transmogrified presidency if only for our sake.

Readers’ reactions: Re: I won’t vote Obama… and Buhari too All foes of Buhari are foes of Nigeria. If we lose him, we have lost another Awo. Abraham, 07041851806 God will continue to bless you for condemning homosexuality. Amen. As for Buhari he does not want to listen to political advisers.

He is the country’s best man though. Lukman, 07035696731 I am highly impressed with your write-up in The Nation newspaper dated 25 th May, 2012. It takes the grace of God to profess the truth. Carry on, God is your strength.

Emmanuel Urama, 07065679096 You are right. Obama and America have led astray some countries that harbor proimperialists as rulers. What is true is that only people can construct a structure which will elevate man from the level of brute. Amos Ejimonye, 08039727512 On your comment on General Buhari, please say something on Obasanjo’s do-ordie election; General Azazi’s PDP and national security, Henry Okah’s South African affidavit on Jonathan’s involvement in Octo-

was there should be condemned. While l abhorred in unequivocal term Jonathan’s unforgivable effrontery of referring to Abiola as ‘presumed winner’ of the June 12 election in his May 29 speech, l want to state without fear that there is nothing bad in his renaming of UNILAG after Abiola. There have been inspirational examples of this act within and outside the country.

Two examples will suffice here: In 1636, a university called the New College was established by vote of the Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. By 1639, the college was as a mark of honour renamed after John Harvard, the then deceased wealthy Charlestown minister, who bequeathed half of his huge monetary estate and his very big library to the college. That was how the highly revered Harvard University came into being. Can anyone now say that the renaming of that institution after an individual diminished its status among global citadels of learning? Of course, New College despite answering an individual name today is one of the most profound and best universities in the world.

Back to the home front, a university called the University of Northern Nigeria was established on October 4, 1962. Upon the death of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of Nigeria’s Northern region, it was renamed Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. The fact that it bears an individual name has not reduced its standing in the comity of high profile universities. The institution is arguable reported to be the largest university in Nigeria and second largest in Africa, second only to Cairo University, Egypt. So, where did Jonathan go wrong on this issue? Perhaps, l would not mind if my voice remains the only dissenting voice on this matter because the cacophony of condemnations are quite, with due respect, a disservice to the indelible democratic efforts of Abiola to bring forth today. If brand is the issue here as some would want us to believe, Harvard and ABU have in their own right become, despite answering individual names, established brands today. Both are producing cultured and useful citizens that are serving humanity in various capacities of human endeavour.

Let us take this token renaming in the interim.

The argument over UNILAG being renamed after Abiola would have been needless if Obasanjo, a kinsman of and chief beneficiary of Abiola’s toil, had done the needful when he served as president of this country. By the grace of Allah, Abiola will be accorded posthumous status of a president if not by Jonathan but by a soon to be installed progressive government in the nearest future. Abiola is not dead completely for he would live forever for as long as there is Nigeria. ber 1st bomb blast and Alafin of Oyo’s warning to PDP concerning 2015 elections. Telling PDP to conduct a free and no rigging election is morally sound. Ibrahim Shaba, Toto, Nassarawa State, 07032192606 I have read many reactions on Gen Buhari’s comment on bloodshed if he failed the 4 th time. Yours is non-partisan, reasonable, level headed and have sanity. All other comments are tribal, ethnic and with zero understanding. Thank you; at least there are still wellmeaning writers in Nigeria. Basutor, 08037103055 You got it right with Obama who is considered an anti-Christ; but entirely wrong with Buhari. It is unfortunate that the President’s inability to secure the lives of Nigerian is being placed on a politician who happens to tell the truth. Bashing Buhari instead of Jonathan who is more educated and has the resources to turn the fortunes of Nigeria around but chooses not to move us forward.

Let the truth be told, we desire a revolution.

Timothy, Kubwa, 08099289919 This piece of yours on why you won’t vote Obama brought joy to my heart. Let the world go on deceiving themselves by trying to call sodomy by whatever name. The word of God will always prevail. Sodomy is evil; Obama is not a Christian. Let Obama and Cameron divorce their wives and marry themselves before endorsing same sex marriage (SSM).

Mkpe, PH, 08034825660 Uncle Steve, this is wonderful job devoid of sentiments but the candidate for the 2015 race for president should be neither Jonathan nor Buhari because they both told us they would no longer contest for the position. There is need for vibrant young men like BRF, Rotimi Amaechi for the job. God bless Nigeria. Seyi Babaeko, 08030858606 Sir, I read your column on why you won’t vote Obama or Buhari; especially Obama for his support of SSM. Pls ask them when centaurs and minotaurs start appearing in our world what would ne the fate of humans. God bless you sir,08077065314 Steve how is it that you put my thoughts on paper as if you discussed with me on the two issues you wrote about. I say you shall remain blessed in the name of Jesus, Amen.

Buhari lost my vote since 2003 when he said power should return to the north as if civilized Nigerians give a damn where who gets the job done is from. 08093137417

No Starting 11 for

POLICE INVESTIGATE EAGLES YET racial abuse on Sone Aluko Pg. 41

Pg. 41

Friday, June 1, 2012

NIGERIA/NAMIBIA CLASH

•Yobo

YOBO calls for

Pg. 24

TOTAL

SUPPORT

KESHI in the dark over

•Keshi

Pg. 24

NAMIBIA

NFF solicits support for‘Big Boss’

Pg. 24

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

25

PEOPLE THE NATION

A FIVE-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

He does not look his age. At 90, Alhaji Bashir Olanrewaju Yusuf moves about uprightly. He walked unaided from home to the venue of his birthday celebration, a distance of about two kilometres. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

•The celebrator Alhaji Yusuf flanked by Oba Adetona (left) and Oba Lawal

A prince at 90 A

T 90, Alhaji Bashir Olanrewaju Yusuf has come a long way. In a country where life expectancy is said to be 47, the nonagenarian has every reason to thank God for giving him a long life. He did just that on May 19 when family and friends gathered in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, to celebrate his 90th birthday with him.

It was an event that drew the cream of royalty from the state since the celebrator himself is a prince. He is from the Fidipote Ruling House in Ijebu-Ode. Walking unaided into De Prime Hall, Ijebu-Ode about 10am, the celebrator was greeted by the paramount ruler of Ijebuland Oba Sikiru Adetona and the Timi of Ede Oba Munirudeen Lawal (Laminisa 1). The revered monarchs led no fewer than 20 other traditional rulers to the occasion.

The event was chaired by Prof Abiodun Adesanya (SAN), an international legal practitioner. Dignitaries at the ceremony included Alaye of Odogbolu Oba Adedeji Onagoruwa; Moyegeso of Itele Oba M.A. Kasali; Dagburewe of Idowa Oba Y.O. Adekoya; Oba Abib Awobajo; Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye Oba Abdul Rasaq Adenugba; Oliworo of Iworo Oba G.A. Onafuwa; Alarige of Ibi-Ade Oba Bola Raimi; Lamodi of Isiwo Oba S.A. Salisu and Obiri of Aiyepe Oba A.R. Okubanjo.

Others were Prince Bode Oshinusi, Chief Kamorudeen Adeyemi; Aladeken of OkeAko Oba J.A. Osunsami; Liken of Iwopin Oba J. Ola Adekoya; Alamuren of OkeLamuren Oba L.A. Oguntayo; Alakan of Aiyepe Oba Musibau Oseni; Alaye-Aba of Aiyepe Oba Raji Sulaiman; Elesugbon of Esugbon Oba Muhideen Hassan; Magunsen of Ita-Marun Oba Ade Fakoya and Lukale of Oke-Sopen Oba M.A Yusuf.

On May 18, there were prayers by Islamic clerics. The presence of all the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, added glamour to the event.

The calibre of the celebrator’s friends within Islamic circle in Ijebu Ode was dem-

‘Alhaji Yusuf is a good man in all ramifications.

I can swear and affirm his righteousness, honesty and decency’ onstrated during the two-day event with the presence of reputable Islamic scholars, such as Sheikh Muhydeen Ajani Bello, who delivered a lecture on Islam and longevity. The Al-Mahdi Islamic Group Mission led by Sheikh Imam Musa was represented.

Bello prayed Allah to continue to grant Alhaji Yusuf good health.

He went to Mecca in 1945 at the age of 23.

Extolling the forthrightness, sense of dignity and community relevance of the nonagenarian, Oba Adetona praised God for the gift of Alhaji Yusuf to Ijebuland and the honour of knowing him.

He said: “Alhaji Yusuf is a good man in all ramifications. I can swear and affirm his righteousness, honesty and decency”.

The monarch urged his children not to abandon the virtues for which their father earned his respect.

The eldest son of the celebrator Alhaji Olatunji Yusuf, described his father as a role model who had succeeded in impacting the core values of hard work, discipline, generousity and respect for others in his children and all those around him.

According to the celebrator’s daughter Mrs Folasade Lawal, “my father is my mentor and my hero, even when we are not the best son or daughter, daddy always understood and these are virtues I will adopt in dealing with my children. Daddy has built a strong foundation in me no one can take away.

His teachings and values have kept me upright, things I’ll remember to do for my children.”

•Wives of the celebrator from right: Alhaja Titilola; Alhaja Taibat and Alhaja Adeola Yusuf

•Prof Adesanya (SAN)

• Chief Kamorudeen Adeyemi

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

26

SOCIETY •Continued from page 25

•Oba Adenugba flanked by other monarchs.

• Sheikh Musa

•The celebrator’s daughter Mrs Folasahde Lawal and her husband Ganiu Lawal PHOTOS:NNEKA NWANERI

•From Left: Alhaji Kunle Abass; Sheikh Bello and Cheif Oshinusi

BOOK PRESENTATION

INDUCTION

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (middle) presenting the book Commercial Aribtration Law and International Practice in Nigeria. With him are immediate past Attorney-General of Lagos, Olasupo Shashore (SAN) (left) and Adeyemi Candide-Johnson (SAN)

•Bashorun JK Randle (left) and Mr Olumide Sofowora

•Osile Oke-Ona Oba Adedapo Tejuoso (left) being inducted as Patron of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Southwest zone by CAN Southwest Chairman Archbishop Magnus Atilade at St. James Cathedral African Church, Abeokuta, Ogun State

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

27

SOCIETY

A governor’s day of glory Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda has been conferred with honorary membership of the Yoruba Tennis Club.

The ceremony attracted many of his friends and political associates. KUNLE AKINRINADE was there.

•Gov Yuguda and his wife, Abiodun

•Cole and his wife, Kehinde

I

T is a rare honour bestowed only on those who truly deserve it. Last Saturday, Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda was found worthy of the honour and he was conferred with honourary membership of the Yoruba Tennis Club in Lagos.

The guests and members of the club who were chauffeured in exotic cars defied the rain to grace the ceremony.

The auditorium was decorated in purple and cream to strengthen its aesthetic beauty; Juju music maestro Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, and his band stood in a corner of the expansive club hall churning out songs to entertain the early arrivals.

Before the honouree’s arrival, there was convergence of culture as members of the Fulani Cultural Troupe and itinerant Yoruba drummers milled at the entrance to welcome guests with rich traditional music.

At 4.30pm, Yuguda accompanied by his wife, Abiodun and some aides arrived to a rousing welcome by officials of the club led by their Chairman, Bolaji Cole. The two cultural troupes entertained as he was being led into the chairmen’s office.

Dressed in a white flowing Agbada with a stylish Abeti-Aja cap to match, Yuguda flashed a winsome smile while exchanging banter with some guests.

About 30 minutes later, the ceremony took off with the introduction of guests on the high table, among who are, a representative of Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola; Hon Kunle Hussein; former Minister for Works, Chief Femi Okunnu Chief Yomi Finnih and Yuguda’s wife’s relations Shasanya family of Lagos.

In an address, Cole gave reasons for the honour bestowed on Yuguda, saying: “We strongly feel that a man whose lifestyle is devoid of tribalism deserves commendation and honour in an environment outside his domain. And we, therefore, believe that his choice for today’s honour as a member of this great club is not a wrong one because he truly deserves it.

“I, therefore, want to thank Governor Yuguda, his wife, commissioners and distinguished guests for finding time to honour us tonight”.

His speech was followed by a performance by the Fulani Cultural Troupe which got a thunderous applause from the audience.

Responding: “From what I understand, this club stands for unity, indivisibility and prosperity of Nigeria and I feel that there is no greater honour than this one today.

“I have joined you today as a brother and whatever affects me, affects you and whatever affects you surely affects me. I pledge to

•Alhaji Okunnu (SAN) (right) and Hon Hussein

•Bauchi State Commissioner for Power, Alhaji Yakub Kirfi (left) and his Social Development counterpart Alhaji Umar Salih

•Chief Yomi Finnih and Special Adviser to Governor Yuguda on Special Duties, Mr Philip Bawun

•Chief Yomi Lewis and his wife, Jumoke

•Commissioner for Budget Planning, Alhaji Aminu Hamayo and Water Resources counterpart Alhaji Sanni Burra

do my best by adding value to this club. I believe there is a similarity between the Fulani culture and that of Yoruba; the cap I am wearing today is also worn by the Fulani and I, therefore, believe that there are

lots of cultural similarities that bind us together as a people. I want to thank the club’s Board of Trustees and its management committee for this monumental honour.”

•Dr Ernest Bucknor (right) and Mr Seyi Joseph

PHOTOS: KUNLE AKINRINADE

28

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

SOCIETY The Oriwu Club in Ikorodu, Lagos has held an induction for its new members. RISIKAT RAMONI was there.

•Dr Oshikoya (left) and Prince Saka

•Ambassador Onafowokan and his wife Pauline

•Oba Oyefusi and his wife Olori Muyibat

•From left: Chief Adedayo; Prince Tunde Akinbiyi and Princess Akinbiyi Mudashiru

Club inducts members T

•Prince Odofin and the wife of the club’s President Mrs Ronke Saka

•Chief Benson (SAN) (left) and Chief Banjoko

HE well-decorated hall of Oriwu Club in Ikorodu, Lagos was filled to capacity penultimate Sunday.

People came from all parts of Lagos and outside the country to attend the induction of 10 members.

The guests were called to the high table and following the president’s speech, the induction started. The inductees were called one after another.

Each inductee signed, shook hands with the president and later took pictures with his wife, family and friends. All those present shone in attractive attires.

Some of the inductees were Ambassador Ademola Onafowokan; the Senior Advisor to Group Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated in Togo, Dr Temitope Oshikoya; General Medical Practitioner at the North Croydon Medical Centre in the United Kingdom, Dr Rotimi Bakare; Executive Director, Special duties in Conoil Plc, Otunba Fatai Wahab.

Others were the former Head of the Lagos State Civil Service, Alhaji Babatunde Rotinwa; former director, Lagos State Ministry of Environment, Wasiu Odubeko; Businessman, Chief Olaniyi Banjoko; Petroleum products marketer, Prince Kabiru Shotobi; former director at LN Engineering and Construction Group, Mr Babatunde Akerele. The President and Chief Executive Officer of Govans professional pharmacy and Central Avenue Pharmacy in the United States, Dr Steve Anifowoshe.

Life Patron of the club, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Salaudeen Oyefusi was at the event with his wife, Olori Muyibat. They were both dressed in beautiful lace attires. The king was beaming with satisfaction all through the event.

Oba Oyefusi advised other clubs in Ikorodu and Lagos to follow the step of Oriwu Club.

He regarded the club as a role model for other clubs.

“They (members) are a bunch of academics, professionals and business tycoons. They are people of integrity who have the interest of the people in mind. They have done a lot of development in this town. They are always at the forefront whenever there is anything to be done in Ikorodu and even in Lagos. The calibre of people speaks volume about the club,” he said.

President of the club, Prince Jamiu Saka, congratulated the new members and their families. He urged the new and members to contribute positively to the growth and development of both the club and the State.

Saka, a legal and insurance practitioner said the club has 103 members.

A former Minister of National Planning and Chairman of Ragolis, Chief Rashed Gbadamosi, urged the club and others to continue to participate in the development of Lagos.

Ambassador Onafowokan gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the inductees. He thanked guests for honouring their invitation.

Other guests at the event include the Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Education, Otunba Fatai Olukoga; former Finance Commissioner in Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Odofin; Chairman, Tastee Fried Chicken, Chief Kunle Adedayo; Chief Babatunde Benson (SAN); Environmental consultant and Vice-President of the club, Prince Amid Oduborisa; the Aremo Oba of Ikorodu, Aremo Adeniyi Ogunsanya; and Princess Risiqiyat Akinbiyi Mudasiru of Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS).

29 FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

Vol 4. No. 174

•Cross-section of winners

Thrills of the ‘Real Deal’ winners In a month, the Legend Real Deal promo organised by Nigerian Breweries to reward its consumers will end. JIMI DAVID in this report captures the mood of some winners at a prize presentation in Lagos.

“T

HE last prize that I won in a promo was 18 years ago. Today, I have won an LCD TV and I am the happiest person in the world,” said Mrs. Anike Fayemi. The mother of five has joined the growing list of winners in the on-going Legend Real Deal Promo.

She took home a brand new LCD television. With a smile, the bar operator described the experience “as worth the wait.”

I don’t know what to say about this television that I won.

Though I can’t remember what I won 18 years ago when I last participated in a promo, I know that it certainly was not as big as this television. After waiting that long to win another prize, I can say that this television is well-worth the wait,” she said.

Mrs Fayemi said she is not resting on her oars. She intends to win more prizes before the promo ends. “This will surely not be the last prize I will win before the end of the promo. I will continue to drink Legend and win more prizes,” she added.

Like Mrs Fayemi, who is full of joy for winning the prize, Martus Kiris, a native of Edo State, is also in a festive mood.

The 31-year-old trader won N5,000 in the promo. Unlike Mrs. Fayemi, this would be the first prize he would win in a promo.

“This may seem like a small amount, but for me it means something. It is really a boost to consumers when a big brand such as Legend Extra Stout decides to reward a customer like me,” he said. So what does the promo mean to him? “It’s a fitting reward for my 10-year patronage of this marvellous drink. I feel appreciated,” he said.

Peter James is a winner of a generator. He has not stopped singing the praise of Legend Extra Stout since he won the generator. “I learnt about the promo two weeks ago but I really didn’t think I would win anything from this promo. In fact, I still can’t believe that I have won anything,” he said.

Unlike other winners, James does not intend to use the generator. The Benue State student intends to send it home to his mother. “My mother needs it more than I do. I intend to send

it to her. Maybe I will win another one for myself,” he said.

Mrs Martina Onwunali is another winner of a generator.

She certainly doesn’t plan on being generous with her generator: “This is going to help my business. You know that the epileptic power supply in the country makes it imperative for you to own a generator. So, it will surely come in handy in my business,” the mother of six children said.

Then there is Sgt Sunday Damisa of the Army Cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos. You would think that the only recruitment the 46-year-old would be involved in would be on behalf of his profession. But while he encourages anyone interested to join the army, Sgt Damisa, who is from Auchi, Edo State, is also looking for more ‘soldiers’ into the Legend Extra Stout ‘army’. Not surprising since he also won a brand new LCD television in the promo. “We have been having a big celebration since I got this wonderful television. Now, I want to make sure that everybody that is of beer drinking age switches to Legend Extra Stout in this (Ikeja) cantonment. Maybe, I will get to win another gift again.”

Sgt Damisa was glowing with excitement when he made his way to the headquarters of Nigerian Breweries PLC to take

‘More tales continue to emerge as the Legend Mega Promo keeps on producing more winners daily. The excitement over it seems to be spreading like harmattan fire even as more stout drinkers switch over to the brand. In the first week of the promo alone, 11 LCD TV sets, 13 generators and 16 Blackberry phones were won’

delivery of his prize. He had in tow, his colleague, Corporal Adamu Bello. For Sgt Damisa, the goal is to keep recruiting more loyalists even as he continues to win more customers to the promo. “Yes, I am happy that I won. But I want to keep trying until I get other prizes,” he said.

More tales continue to emerge as the Legend Mega Promo keeps on producing more winners daily. The excitement over it seems to be spreading like harmattan fire even as more stout drinkers switch over to the brand. In the first week of the promo alone, 11 LCD TV sets, 13 generators and 16 Blackberry phones were won. Other prizes include 349 T-Shirts, 319 Fez caps, 29,995 recharge cards and 13,309 free drinks. Also, seven lucky people have smiled home with the N5, 000 prize.

Speaking on the promo, Funso Ayeni, Senior Brand Manager, Legend, Nigerian Breweries Plc., said the growing number of winners in the promo was a testament that Legend Extra Stout is Nigeria’s foremost stout drink. “If there is any doubt as to the popularity of Legend Extra doubt then this promo should lay it to rest. We are Nigeria’s foremost stout drink and that is why there is so much interest from the public,” he said.

He stressed that the promo was Legend Extra Stout’s way of saying thank you to its consumers. “We are ever mindful of the fact that we are nothing without the teeming consumers who have put us where we are today. So, we are just saying thank you to them through this promo,” he said.

And even as the promo reaches feverish pitch, the Stout drink seems to be upping the ante with what it has tagged the Legend Real reward Nights. The special events, which are tied to the Legend Real Deal Promo, are also an avenue to reward loyal Legend Extra Stout consumers, during the promo. These events afford Legend Stout consumers the opportunity of winning prizes in designated bars across the country.

In all, 36 bars have been designated to be used for the real reward nights.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

30

Brandnews FrieslandCampina WAMCO to mark World Milk Day

F

RIESLANDCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC will celebrate the World Milk Day, today, with the theme: “Drink milk every day”.

In a statement, the company’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Mrs Ore Famurewa, said: “The unique idea of this year’s celebration is the ‘Biggest Milk Moustache’ campaign. Nigerians can join in the World Milk Day by taking pictures of themselves, friends or colleagues with milk moustaches and post to www.facebook.com/Peakmilk.

Pictures posted have the chance of winning one year free supply of Peak milk and an opportunity to put a smile on an orphan’s face as every picture posted to the website will

be converted to a sachet of Peak Evap and donated to charity homes!

“We are pleased to lead Nigerians to celebrate milk, a naturally unique food loaded with indispensible essential micronutrients needed to keep the body strong and healthy.

World Milk Day is a day we re-affirm all the goodness that milk represents; its natural origin and great nutritional value that so many people all over the world enjoy.

“As the dairy industry leader, we continue to provide premium dairy nutrition for the family. We have been working to drive national progress in local milk production through our Dairy Development Programme in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.

Etisalat inaugurates Cliqfest

E

TISALAT has kicked off a youth empowerment and entertainment programme known as Cliqfest at the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka.

The event featured activities aimed at empowering and entertaining the students. These included a seminar by celebrated motivational speaker, Niyi Adesanya, a novelty football match, raffle draw, dance competition and performances by DELSU students and music acts.

Adesanya, who spoke on competitiveness among the students, stressed the need for youths to equip themselves with knowledge and skills that would enable them to increase their career chances.

He harped the need for them to develop their entrepreneurial skills. He urged the students to maximise the opportunity offered by the seminar to make their life better.

He took the students through a workbook to help them identify their personality type and how best to work on a conversion plan to improve upon their weaknesses.

Head of Etisalat’s Youth Segment Elvis Ogiemwanye said Cliqfest was designed to connect with users of the brand’s youth package, ‘EasyCliq.

He described Easysliq as a product that is unique because of its features which are fun, friendship and youthfulness. He encouraged the students to see themselves as brands that must not die.

According to him, notable global brands tag their success with consistency, and their ability to remain in the market with materials used to enhance and keep them alive.

Also, the Director Marketing Segment and Strategy, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr Oluwole Rawa, urged the students to find what they are most passionate about and work towards achieving them, saying that these would make them stand out from those who only think of being employed and have no passion for what they do and cannot grow. ”Cliqfest represents a mix of fun, education and festivity riding on our innovative Easycliq package.

Our desire is to motivate all-round development in our students. We want our youths to be balanced, connected and in touch with the everchanging career turns, social trends and lifestyles. Cliqfest connects with our core values of care and optimism expressed in an innovative, yet simple manner,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Eric Arubayi commended Etisalat Nigeria for bringing such an initiative to the university, and urged other corporate organisations to emulate its initiative in empowering and improving the lives of students.

The highpoint of the two day event was the concert which started with musical performances from popular artistes such as Terry G, Brymo and 1st runner up at Nigerian Idol 2, Joe Blue who performed a Mariah Carey rendition.

• From left: Mr Amos; Mrs. Taiwo Lasisi, Superintendent Pharmacist, Thompson & Grace Pharmaceutical Ltd and Mr Michael Vatter, Area Sales Manager, Sebapharma, Germany at the launch in Lagos.

Firm launches new products

T

HOMPSON and Grace Pharmaceuticals Limited has introduced a new range of Sebamed products into the market.

The products, Sebamed AntiStretch Mark Cream and Sebamed Anti-Aging Cream, according to Mr Isaac Thompson Amos, the Managing Director of Thompson and Grace Pharmaceuticals Limited, are specifically formulated to meet the various needs of consumers.

The products are produced by Sebapharma, a pharmaceutical company based in Germany. Thompson

and Grace Pharmaceuticals is the exclusive distributor in Nigeria and West Africa.

Amos said the products are family-based as babies, women and adults have the opportunity of boosting the healthiness.

“All Sebamed products reflect quality through their careful scientifically developed formulations and their adjustment to the physiological PH Value of healthy skin to guarantee the highest skin tolerability”, adding: “Sebamed offers a broad and modern system of

medicinal cleansing and care products fine tuned to the requirement of the skin of any normal human being”.

Mr Michael Vatter, the Area Sales Manager, Sebapharma Germany, said the Nigerian market is very important considering the nation’s growing population.

According to him, Sebamed is in over 80 countries, adding that Sebapharma will help Nigerians achieve healthy skin through the distribution of high quality products in the country.

Genevieve Magazine promo winner emerges

A

SUBSCRIBER, Miss Lola Oluwole, on Friday, emerged winner of a brand new went home with a brand new Mercedes Benz B150 car, having emerged winner in the Genevieve Magazine's 'Invest in Your Lifestyle' promo, which began last year.

Presenting the prize, Editor-inChief of the magazine Mrs. Betty Irabor, said the promo which started in 2010, was the magazine's own way of rewarding loyal readers while also expanding its readership base. She said in its nine years of existence, the magazine has remained true to its vision to be a

• Miss Oluwole

lifestyle guide and women's best friend, inspiring wholesomeness in all women globally.

Irabor said the choice of Mercedes Benz as a partner in the subscription promo, was because of the similar attributes of the two brands. "If Genevieve were a car, it would be a Mercedes. We have similar attributes: classy, edgy,

fetching, beautiful and elegant," she said.

Also at the presentation ceremony was Ioannis Anastassiou, who represented Mirko Plath, the Managing Director of Westar Limited, sole distributors of Mercedes Benz brand in Nigeria. He congratulated Miss Oluwole, urging her to always drive safely on the road.

Learn Africa’s turnover hits N2.9b

L

•From left: Publishing Director, Learn Africa Plc, Gbola Aiyedun; MD/CEO, Learn Africa Plc, Fred Ijewere, Iwerebon and Finance Director, Learn Africa Plc, Peter Nosike at the event.

EARN Africa Plc (formerly Longman Nigeria Plc) has reported a 58 per cent growth in its business in the first quarter of this year.

Its Chairman Emeke Iwerebon, made this known at its Pre-Annual General Meeting with reporters in Ikeja, Lagos, ahead of its 39th Annual General Meeting billed for yesterday.

He said the audited results of the company’s operations for the year ended December 31, 2011 showed that the company made a turnover of N2.923 billion, which represented an 18 per cent decrease from the results recorded in the previous year.

“Our company, nonetheless, still achieved a moderate increase of 16

per cent in its profit before tax of N382.79 million in 2011, from N328.78 million in 2010. Shareholders’ funds increased marginally from that of the previous year “The future of Learn Africa is bright. We know how central and important customers are to us and to our business. We are developing new ways of managing our relationships with our customers, and ultimately, meeting their peculiar needs. We believe that with the successful transition and re-branding, coupled with the initial achievements attained

by Millennium Education Limited, we shall become the reference point in Nigeria, not only for books, but also for digital solutions.

31

SHOPPING THE NATION

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

• Shoes made from African fabrics.

African attires rule the world

• Bag made from African fabric.

Famous designers are creating unique attires from African fabrics and preserving their authenticity through high quality designs and sewing. What is more, the attires are available and affordable, writes JANICE NKOLI IFEME.

I

N Africa, clothes hold a special place.

Besides being items of fashion, they also denote class. Over the years, African designs have gained a prominent place world wide. Many labels now look up to them for inspiration.

In Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal and Guinea, men, women and children clothes made from African prints, aso-oke (hand-woven), brocade, French lace, lace caftan, ankara, damask and kente, among other African fabrics can befound.

Local fabrics are popular and can be seen in several stores and markets in almost every locality. Some of the markets are in Balogun and Gutter in Lagos Island, Itoku in Abeokuta, Gbagi in Ibadan.

Many clothing stores such as Dupsie’s African Clothing, Remi Lagos, Oyeog and African Attire’s Clothing are dedicated to providing African clothes at affordable

prices. They also provide accessories to go with them.

The Nation Shopping met Mrs Bridget Okereke buying fabrics at the Balogun Market. She said: “After graduating from my fashion and designing school, I started sewing clothes for many of my relatives.

Among them are my sister and uncle who live in London. When I informed them that I was coming to London two years ago, they told me to buy nice African designs and make some clothes for them. I already had their measurements.

“Since time was not on my side, I travelled with my sewing machine. Having sewn for them, they introduced me to some of their friends and that was how I started a clothing store in London. So from time to time, I come to Nigeria, buy as many fabrics as I could and take back to London to • Continued on Page 32

• African French lace.

Get ready for the rains Cooking gas cylinders for all Page 32

The craze for replicas

Page 33

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

32

SHOPPING

African attires rule the world • Continued from Page 31

sell. I can tell you that they are in high demand over there. I have also started buying fabrics from other African countries.”

A dealer in African fabrics, Mrs Titilayo Oluwakemi, whose shop is located at the Balogun Market, said: “Local fabrics are more appreciated these days. Ankara fabric has gained new strength, not only in the exotic designs, it has been made adaptable to most cosmopolitan designs. There is no end to how fabrics could be used. You could use it for any style-gown, skirt and blouse, top, trousers, iro and buba. Men also have various styles to choose from. They display the Africa in us. What is more, it is durable and affordable. They come mostly in six yards”.

According to her, some of the common textiles are Nigerian prints, Hollandais, London wax, Hollywood woodin, Afrique woodin, Akosombo wax, from Ghana and Java Gold among others.

Mrs Joy Uranta, commented on the issue of buying substandard fabrics. “Some of those fabrics are substandard. I had fallen prey to it once and I know that same could be happening to many.” She had a piece of advice for buyers: “If you do not know the fabrics very well, go with someone who understands them. Also, ask questions before you buy. Most of the time, the sellers would show you the fake as well as the original.

They are always willing to reduce price from the fake,” she said.

African clothing is the traditional colourful and stylish clothing worn by the black peoples of Africa. In some instances, these traditional garments have been replaced by western clothing introduced by European colonialists.

In Northeastern Africa, particularly in Egypt, styles of traditional dress have been influenced by Middle Eastern culture; this can be exemplified by the simply embroidered Jellabiya, which are similarly worn in the Gulf States.

• Kente

Kente fit only for royalty

T

•Agbada

The Northwest Africans in contrast, were less influenced by foreign elements and remained more in antiquity. The Djellaba (worn in Northwest Africa) shares similar properties with the Grand boubou, the Dashiki, and the Senegalese kaftan.

In East Africa, the Kanzu is the traditional dress worn by Swahili speaking men.

Women wear the Kanga and the Gomesi.

South Africa is known for the Madiba shirt, whereas, Zimbabwe is known for the Safari shirt.

In the Horn of Africa, the attire varies from country to country. In Ethiopia, men wear the Ethiopian dashiki and women wear the Ethiopian coffee dress. In Somalia, men wear the khameez with a small cap called a koofiyad.

In Nigeria, the aso-oke, ankara, adire and George material won mostly by people from the Eastern part of the country are richly embellished for a great appeal. For instance, the Ankara fabric is stylishly designed with rich lace materials and accessories to match and often designed with a fusion of western and African pattern.

They are popular gifts at weddings, birthdays and other milestones.

• Fila

Many earn a good living by creating African designs. Miss Bridget Oronya, fondly called Bibi, a young and energetic Nigerian artist, combines various styles to create designs that are uniquely African. She works with oil and glue on canvas or with ink and every material that fits her creative boost.

What makes them special is that they portray both traditional and modern African style in a colourful and relaxing manner.

HE vibrant colours of Kente, the popular Ghanaian fabric, stand it out. The fabric is a big hit during the Black History Month. Native to Ghana, kente has a strong spiritual value. It is a royal and sacred cloth worn only during important occasions in Africa. Kente is called ‘the cloth of kings’ and over time the use of kente cloth has become more widespread.

Kente cloth is easily identified by its dazzling, multi-coloured patterns of lush colours, geometric shapes, and bold designs. Each colour also has a symbolic meaning.

Black stands for maturation, intensified spiritual energy; blue signifies peacefulness, harmony and love; green is for vegetation, planting, harvesting, growth, spiritual renewal; gold indicates royalty, wealth, high status, glory and spiritual purity; grey depicts healing and cleansing rituals associated with ash, maroon is for mother earth, associated with healing; pink indicates feminine aspects of life- a mild, gentle aspect of red; purple, usually worn by women, signifies feminine aspects of life; red connotes political and spiritual moods, bloodshed, sacrificial rites and death; silver stands for serenity, purity and joy, associated with the moon; white signifies purification, sanctification rites and festive occasions.

Yellow signifies preciousness, royalty, wealth and fertility. African legend has it that kente was first made by two friends who went hunting in a forest and found a spider making its web. The friends watched the spider for two days then returned home and implemented what they had seen.

With the coming of the new 3kg gas cylinder, more people can now join the gas users club.

TONIA‘DIYAN writes on the advantages of this new cylinder.

F

OOD is an essential part of human life; virtually everybody cooks notwithstanding their gender. But what one cooks with is just as important as the food itself. Thus, the introduction of the 3kg gas cylinder is to guarantee affordability by everyone and to encourage its use. It is neat and resists smokes and stains.

Though it is generally believed that gas cookers are mainly for the rich, with the handy type, everyone can own one.

“People should be able to make delicious meals with a 3kg gas cylinder without any difficulty,” said the Executive Director, International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED) Mr Ewah Otu Eleri.

“As producers of this product, we produce at a low cost scale and sometimes sell at subsidised rates to preach affordability and availability.

“The gas cylinders we have in the market are too big and costly for everyone to afford, we want to make it as affordable as recharge cards, with which one can conveniently beep another person with only N50 recharge card or send text messages and make quick short calls to same network as theirs,” he noted.

He also said there will be reduction in the refill amount of all sizes of cylinder and that refilling the 3kg cylinder costs only a token.

Shoppers could use cooking gas instead of kerosene, charcoal and firewood, as this handy size will lure many. For those who really enjoy a home away from home; with small portable cylinder, you are sure to accommodate

• Women cooking with the new 3kg cylinder.

Cooking gas cylinders for all any number of modern conveniences while away from home.

The new leisure 3kg cylinder has been proved in tests to be the optimal size for handling and performance. Other sizes of cooking gas cylinder are; the 47kg, which is a refillable cylinder ideal for the home; 13kg is ideal for mobile heating; 9kg and 11kg are good for leisure and outdoor cooking; 11kg and 19kg for mobile catering, commercial

heating, and boating; 12kg and 18kg for fork lift trucks, 3.9kg ideal for small agricultural machinery; 4.5kg, 6kg and 7kg ideal for small portable heaters.

On the other hand, the Lagos State government has promised to come up with a comprehensive cylinder scheme that will change and improve people’s perception about using gas, especially those in rural areas.

This better way of cooking is said to be pre-

ferred to the kerosene, which requires more cleaning and more measures to keep children safe from burns.

Recently, Chimons gas offered two new cylinders (6.25kg and 12.5kg) for sale and provides other services including haulage of cooking gas and refilling the gas from its plants nationwide.

• Continued on Page 34

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

SHOPPING

Shopping Right with FROM MY MAIL BOX Dear reader, We greatly appreciate those of you who make it a point to read us and especially to those who send their comments. Indeed, we are poised to serve you always and give you every valuable pieces of information on our finger tips. As we do first Friday of every month, here are some of your responses as space would enable us. Please bear with us if your comment is not published in this edition.

Thanks a million, Janice.

• Rooney replica shirt.

The craze for replicas It is normal to see people replicate clothes or accessories of stars and celebrities. This is common practice in the United States and the United Kingdom, writes JANICE NKOLI IFEME.

M

ANY football fans adore their favourite Premier League players and would spend any amount when it comes to sporting their name on the back of a replica shirt.

For instance, David Beckham’s replica shirts have made tremendous sales in the United States. His deal with Los Angeles Galaxy gives him cash with every merchandise numbered 23 that goes off the shop’s shelves.

Many football lovers say the club bought him because they knew the sale of his kits alone would pay his salary.

Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney is another football star whose replica jersey is a popular choice of fans around the world.

Sporting iD Global Sales & Marketing Director Rob Thayne said demand for Rooney shirts “showed no signs of abating”.

Rooney’s jersey number 10 is also the fabled number of Pele and Maradona who enjoyed such reverence in their hey day.

But some see it merely as a means of making money. “Every premiership club has a deal with sports companies. Shirt manufacturers sign a deal with the club and sell the shirts worldwide. They just hype the players and make their money. But the players also merit the promotions. It’s good for them”, said a football fan.

Kate Middleton, now Duchess of Cambridge, has been in the limelight since her marriage to Prince William. Right from her engagement dress, several shops, including online stores have made profit through sales of her replica dresses. It appears as if designers monitor any attire

she wears on any official outing with her husband to replicate it for fashion buffs who might be interested; and they are always interested. The late Princess of Wales, Lady Diana, also enjoyed such reverence. Several replica clothes of hers were sold at her death and funeral, as many bought them to express their love for her. The late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, was so loved that many fans would die to have any replica of his wears.

Similarly, you will always find some woman sporting a replica designer bag.

Moreover, these bags can fetch the wearer immense joy. Any time that women have been asked about the satisfaction level gained by using these bags, it has always been positive.

You can hardly find a single woman out there who will be able to resist buying plenty of replica designer bags. And, the low price tag helps most women accomplish the goal.

One of the reasons people go for replica bags is the convenience it gives. What makes these bags really popular is that they are associated with high end celebrities, models on the catwalk and aristocrats. Moreover, they are made of the best materials, the inner lining stitched well and the accessories that never lose their shine or come off. For many, they stand for luxury and indulgence.

The quality and design of the bags enables them not to remain on the shelves for long.

Due to this factor, they are able to get newer designs in store and mind you this is perpetual. The replica designer bags will transport you into another realm altogether and you will be hobnobbing with the elite.

Dear Janice, I used to overlook your shopping page thinking that naturally, it would be all about women, but I was wrong. As a man, I JANICE NKOLI IFEME have made new discoveries just reading your articles. I must commend the one on PVC. At about the time you wrote it, I was contemplating buying it but did not know much about it. Your article got me equipped with the necessary information to purchase it right. Besides, you have also taught us men, how to buy good clothing and how to dress well. Thank you. Gregory Udoh, Uyo Dear Janice, I am an ardent reader of your column, Shopping Right. You may not know it, but you are really helping a lot of us not just to shop right but to maintain our purchases. You write-up titled; ‘A makeover for your wardrobe’, actually taught me a lot of things I had not thought about. Like you rightly observed, we buy new clothes and make ourselves look good, but what about our actual wardrobes? All too often, they easily become overloaded, with too many clothes piled in to a small space, shelves bursting with jumpers or accessories and shoes littering the floor. This is the exact description of my wardrobe, but reading your column has changed all that. Johnson Areh, Onitsha.

Let me first of all appreciate your idea and contributions to men’s dresses. I feel you are a good woman indeed. Sometimes I feel bad when I look at good looking young men wear over sized and unfitted clothing. Prince John Anwana Eyo, Uyo Dear Janice, I want to comment on your article on May 18, 2012 entitled: shopping trends. I do commend you for that observation. I have also observed it, which made me happy reading your piece. I told myself that someone out there is thinking towards my direction. I am beginning to imagine a situation whereby you get to a place like Balogun or any of those bustling markets and see all those traders, including the fish and meat sellers using the POS. I wonder how it will be. At the same time, I wonder, is it really feasible? Johnson Etukudor, Uyo. One interesting thing about you is that no matter the angle one is coming from, there is always a kind word to be said about you. You are intelligent, strategist, humble, transparent, deeply religious and a person of integrity. Comrade Fidelis Oliseneku.

Reading the topic in your column of May 11, 2012, entitled: ‘How’s your spending habit?’I saw a picture of many people I have encountered. I have also noticed that many will never tell you the truth about what they buy. If you ask them how much they bought something, they would rather inflate the price than tell you the truth. I want to use your channel to advice that what makes an item tick is not how exorbitant it is but how well it can serve you. Kingsley Odogwu, Asaba.

Dear Lady Shopping, Going through your pages, I think you have redefined my idea of shopping. I never thought of it as a separate entity, but I think I have come to accept that indeed, it is an aspect of life that has not been delved into. Please keep up the good works. Cynthia, Abuja.

Hi Janice, I enjoy reading your shopping tips, but the only thing is that I do not have so much money for shopping. You give useful tips on how to shop right, but you make me feel as if the world is all about spending money. I particularly don’t like this idea of shopping shopping… is it not extravagance? Samson, University of Benin Sam dear, Whether anyone likes it or not, shopping is a lifestyle and a daily occurrence. It is all about having your needs met, so it is something you must do, willingly or unwillingly.

What matters is how you go about it. Our shopping tips are to enable you shop right and get the best value for your money, irrespective of how small or big. Many people would always advice that you buy what you need and to cut your coat according to your cloth. If you do so, I do not think you are being extravagant. So, dear, do not get confused, shopping is not about how big you spend, but the value you get for whatever you have spent.

• Replica designer Louis Vuitton Men suits.

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

SHOPPING

Get ready for the rains Getting to work or any other destination wet and cold is the consequence of not having an umbrella. The umbrella is used by all. OMOLARA MOFESOLA OMONIYI writes on the need to carry an umbrella, always, especially this rainy season.

T

HE umbrella serves firstly and most importantly as a shield against rains. It could be very annoying and embarrassing to get to work early in the morning wet with rain water. This could spoil your mood all through the day. The cold the rain water produces is also not good for health.

It could lead to diseases such as chest pain and others. This mostly will affect children who are sensitive to cold and could affect their concentration in school when they get there wet. It could leave you shivering all through the day.

The umbrella could also be useful in the sun, especially for those, who are sensitive to sun burns like the albinos.

The heat from the sun is intense.

Therefore, women with kids on their backs need an umbrella.

Sometimes, some people without um- • Umbrella brella seek shelter in safe places during the rains. This may make them late for their appointments. An umbrella would help in that situation. cheap, therefore affordable. Do not forget When shopping next time, do not forget to that umbrellas vary both for the young and include an umbrella for your family on the old. The ones for your kids are different from list. Yes, you can, since they are relatively the ones for you.

A woman’s hair is her glory. So, tuck that precious hair you made with so much money in a shower cap during the rain. Carrying a shower cap in your bag when going out should not be a hassle. OMOLARA MOFESOLA OMONIYI writes

Shower cap for your hair

Y

OU need to put on a nylon or rubber made shower cap in your bag

or in your car, when going out always, so that the rains will not catch you unawares, so stop the rains from touching that hair. It mostly applies to women who fix weave-on.

The rain water may take a long period to dry and make your hair itchy.

The men who got their hair dyed also need a shower cap in their possession during their outings.The consequence of not having it is that the rains may ruin the whole hair, thereby • Shower cap washing the stains on your cloth. This may make you look dirty and disturb your activities. It will also shield your head from cold.

However, when purchasing your shower cap, ensure it is made of quality material and there are no holes on it. If the cap is made of sub-standard material, it will not last long. If there are holes on

it, it will reduce its function, as water will gain access into your head.

Due maintenance habit should be ensured after purchasing a shower cap.

Wash it with soap as often as possible.

Keep away from the reach of children and pests, who could poke holes on it. This damages it.

Go for durable carpets Getting a carpet for your home can be tough because there is variety to choose from.Buying that which suits your requirement and budget is most important, writes TONIA ‘DIYAN

C

ARPET is a very popular fibre. It is a good choice for busy areas because it is durable, resists stains and maintains colour. Buying a carpet for your home is not just about choosing colour and style; you are probably investing in your home.

In the market, you will find carpets of different qualities and styles. How do you know which is suitable for you? Buying the wrong carpet can be a costly mistake. You should buy carpets from manufactures who will explain all about its features, how to use it and which is best to buy.

It is not necessary that only the expensive carpets are the best to buy. Keep your budget in mind while buying one. There are many affordable and quality carpets available.

Before you go to the market, consider where the carpet will be, who will be using it, how much movement it will get, and the size of your budget. If it is for bedroom or study room, then you can choose a light colour because there is not much movement in these areas that would make it dirty or stained. And if you are buying for an area like the sitting room where movement is more, then you can choose a dark colour because dirt and any stain will not be too much noticeable when they settle on it.

Good-quality nylon is made to look like wool, with the addition of stain resistance • Continued from Page 32

The 6.25kg cylinder includes the burner and the cooking ring unit. This cylinder, branded the ‘Express Cook’, was designed as an affordable, durable and effective cooker for the home.

The Express Cook was launched at the awareness campaign, where the Managing Director of Chimons Gas Chibuike Lawrence Achigbu explained that it was produced for the average Nigerian, as it enables low income earners to afford the switch from firewood and kerosene to cooking gas. He also added that Nigerians deserve a better cooking fuel, which will translate to a cleaner environment, healthier and better standards of living.

The Federal Government’s renewed efforts to increase the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) popularly called cooking gas will be further deepened as they would get people to abandon the use of fire wood and kero-

and easy cleaning. A carpet keeps your home cool. Go for the slip-free type which is particularly beneficial for the elderly; it provides a quieter indoor environment and is relatively easy to maintain.

“Carpet is usually sold in yards, unlike some other floor coverings, said Mr Polycarp Aguiyi, a carpet retailer. According to him, a nylon carpet ranges from N500 to N2, 500 per yard. No carpet fibre is better than the other.

Choose one that suits your lifestyle and budget.

When choosing colour, ask yourself-do you want a natural colour that blends in, or do you want a vibrant one that reflects your style?

Lighter colours are great for small rooms as they will make it seem larger, but they will show stains more readily than darker shades.

Green and blue will provide a calming effect.

Red, yellow and brown will warm up a room.

Protect your carpet by placing furniture caps under the legs of heavy furniture.

Who says carpets cannot be underlayed just like rugs? In fact, they look better, last longer and feel better when underlayed. Underlay can extend the life of your carpet as well as absorb sound, cover minor imperfections on the floor and provide insulation. You could get more fanciful carpets from departmental stores, carpet stores, local dealers and wholesalers.

• Orange carpets.

Cooking gas for all sene for cooking and have them adopt cooking gas.

“You hardly hear of cooking gas explosion.

Instead we hear of kerosene explosion more.

Most times, our kerosene is mixed with petrol or other dangerous chemicals that could cause explosion”, a user, Ms Ruth Anaya said.

Mrs Motiriyanu Araba said: “I think most people refuse to use cooking gas because of its price; cooking gas was deregulated ages ago so prices can get high at times. It is also more convenient for most Nigerians to buy a bottle of kerosene, than it would be for them to carry a gas cylinder about” Mr Osahan Henry, a student said: “Seriously, the fear of explosion prevents most people from using cooking gas. It is actually not as expensive as people think in the long

run but some people prefer kerosene because it can be bought in small quantities, I mean bit by bit.”

Miss Funke Agbabiaka said: “Most people I know use gas cookers. I hardly know anyone that uses kerosene stove these days. Even when I was in school, though I didn’t have a complete gas cooker, I had a camp gas. I saw recently in the news where a company introduced the 3kg gas cylinder. It is very easy to use as the cylinder and burner are all-in-one.

And it is cheaper to refill than the normalsized gas cylinder.”

“Anyone who uses strictly kerosene stove is doing so for financial reasons, abeg na who like suffer? We might as well stop entering cars because there is likelihood of having an accident,” said Mr Peter Eromosele.

• New cooking gas cylinder.s

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

35

Clogged arteries, poor services

AfricaMagic’s new soaps

J

UST six weeks after the exciting revision of its channel line-up, pioneering continental TV brand AfricaMagic has announced more fantastic news for viewers.

When last Monday, DStv audiences tuned in to the glamorous new AfricaMagic Entertainment (channel 128), they were able to watch two popular daily series GENERATIONS and ISIDINGO - which made their debut on the channel.

The latest development is significant because it means that for viewers outside South Africa, where both series are produced, the best place to watch the freshest episodes will be AfricaMagic Entertainment.

“We are very pleased that we have been able to conclude our agreement with the SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) for the rights to screen these two dramatic and dynamic shows that already have a proven record of attracting audiences and maintaining high levels of viewer interest. And the fact that we will be screening the latest episodes shortly after the SABC is a great benefit to our audiences,”says M-Net Africa Managing Director Biola Alabi.

Alabi expressed her gratitude to audiences for their understanding and support during the recent changes in the AfricaMagic channels.

“There were several changes, which our audiences were very patient with and we received alot of positive feedback about the revised and new channels. We also want to thank our content suppliers for their great support and helpful suggestions; and of course, we must thank the cast and crews of all our shows who have been so enthusiastic about making AfricaMagic Entertainment a success. Overall, we’re happy with the response received to date. It’s a good sign for the future of a brand we’re deeply committed to.”

Along with the established M-Net seriesTinsel, Jacob’s Cross and Changes,

By Kenny Hussain GENERATIONS and ISIDINGO will offer high quality African drama, beautifully filmed with storylines that are both relevant to African audiences and,in many ways, reflective of their own hopes, ambitions and desires. With stellar casts and world-class productions, both shows are already famous for delivering mustwatch, jam-packed plots with intrigue, secrets, romance and more!

But what are the shows about?

GENERATIONS: The backdrop of Generations is the advertising industry, with a storyline that celebrates the dreams and aspirations of Africans. As in all soaps, rivalry, treachery and blackmail between siblings, friends and foes alike make Generations one of the most forceful dramas South Africa has ever produced. Suspense, intrigue and tension are the order of the day as the plot unfolds and romance influences relationships between warring parties. Generations will be screening on AfricaMagic Entertainment from Monday to Friday at 21:30 CAT, with episodes rescreened the following weekday at 13:00 CAT. Fans can also look out for an omnibus of the week’s episodes on Saturday afternoons.

ISIDINGO: Isidingo is a daily serial set in the mining village of Horizon Deep.The structure of the mining community from the miners to executive management reflects South African society as it is in the new millennium. The characters and storylines deal with the issues which face ordinary people in their daily lives – their loves, fears, problems, heartaches and triumphs. Isidingo will be screened on AfricaMagic Entertainment from Monday to Friday at 22:00 CAT, with episodes rescreened the following weekday at 16:00 CAT. Fans can look out for an omnibus of the week’s episodes on Sunday afternoons.

•Hussain, a fan, wrote in from Lagos.

‘Most Nigerians don’t use BB for business’

O

NLY 10 per cent of Blackberry (BB) users in Nigeria use their BB for office work, a study has shown.

A FactBound Research report on blackberry usage shows that socialising and communication are the preferred option. ‘’19.6 percent of users are engaged mainly in socialising and communication, while 15.3 per cent use their BB for research and education. Only 10 per cent use their blackberry phones for office work,’’Femi Ayelehin, Manager, Consumer Insights revealed.

According to Ayelehin, the study also showed that among the 71 per cent of those who use Blackberry phones, 24.3 per cent said using Blackberry has influenced their lives in the area of information sharing, 21.8 per cent admitted it influenced their networking life, while 19.3 per cent said it has influenced their social status.

Findings also discovered that BBM/ BIS is the most popular application used by 28.1 per cent of respondent, followed

by Facebook with about 23.1 per cent, and then the Email application, used by 18.18 percent, while about 12 per cent spend more time on Twitter.

Ayelehin further revealed that an average of one to three hours daily is spent on BB by 30.8 per cent of respondents, four to seven hours daily by 25.6 per cent, while 24.4 per cent spent an average of eight to 11 hours daily on their

Blackberry phones.

More results from the survey showed that MTN had the highest number of Blackberry subscribers with 67.1 per cent of the respondents using the service, followed by GLO with 15.2 percent, 11.4 percent subscribe to the AIRTEL service, while ETISALAT has the least with only 6.3 percent subscribing to its BB service.

In terms of the quality of Blackberry service in Nigeria, the study revealed that 58.2 percent of Nigerians, age 15 and above judged it to be satisfactory, while 13.9 percent said it’s unsatisfactory, and 21.5 percent maintained a neutral position.

The survey also revealed that 30.4 percent of those who don’t use Blackberry phones, said they have other phone brands that are as good as BlackBerry, while those that blamed it on the high cost of BlackBerry phones accounted for 23.9 percent. However, 19.6 per cent simply admitted they didn’t need a Blackberry phone for now.

According to Ayelehin, ‘’the high percentage of respondents who subscribe to Blackberry services may be attributed to high percentage of respondents who are employed, because they are economically empowered to acquire it’’. Data gathered revealed about 56 per cent of the respondents were employed (public or private), 20.2 per cent self-employed; while 11.9 percent were students.

H

E slumped and died while watching a football match. That is what the news media reported. But the underlying factor is much deeper than the report. Most survivors of heart-related disease such as cardiac arrest or heart attack would tell you that the disease did not come up in one day. So, friend, if you find that you have clogged artery, the situation is not hopeless. However, there are things you can do to help yourself and prevent further damage. According to research, you need to change your lifestyle. As it has been discovered most heart patients usually indulge in unhealthy diet, do not exercise and that is how they get to the level.

Talked to a doctor friend recently and he said leading a healthy lifestyle can go a long way toward fighting and preventing clogged arteries. To prevent clogged arteries, you should ensure your diet consists of less than 35 per cent fat overall.

This is supported by the US Food and Drug Administration. Other reports contend that your overall fat intake should be less than 30 or 25 per cent or more. However, if you are already dealing with clogged arteries, stop reading this and go to your doctor. If you are not, you have a chance to avoid it.

First you need to cut your cholesterol.

My friend said one egg can provide as much as 250 milligrams of cholesterol; as such, you should start checking the labels on the foods you consume for cholesterol and fat content. You can also find helpful fat and cholesterol counts on the Internet.

However, if you are a smoker, quit. This is one of the most important things you can do in your fight against clogged arteries.

Do it right away. Delaying could take years off your life.

I am not sure if Nigeria has support groups to help you quit smoking. If there is none, ask your doctor for help. You need it. Aside, start exercising. This is an important weapon against clogged arteries.

To start, again, talk to your doctor. You do not need to spend the whole day in the gym. 30 minutes to one hour three to four times per week would be good for you.

That is what the doctor recommends. This is also supported by the American Heart Association. Why do you need to exercise?

The doctor said such physical activity serves to improve cholesterol levels, makes your heart stronger, and reduces your blood pressure. Aside, you may even shed some extra weight. Inquisitiveness got me discussing with the doctor. If you need to know more and you are not sure about what you are reading, talk to your doctor about clogged arteries and steps you need to take to lower cholesterol and control high blood pressure.

Doctor also shared hints about some foods that may help fight clogged arteries. My checks also confirmed that pomegranate juice may prevent and slow the clogging of arteries. Foods may contribute to your health in other ways and, therefore, try it.

That sounds easy, right? But it is not so easy with the telcos that are battling to justify why the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) should not fine them the sum of N1.17 billion for perceived poor service quality on the networks. It is like a case of a patient with clogged arteries. The doctor is meant to treat this patient and ensure the patient is well and running.

Would it be right for a doctor to punish and penalise a patient who has clogged arteries, blaming him for not going to the gym to exercise, for not eating the right food, for not reducing his cholesterol intake and for not stop smoking? No doctor would do that. The best the doctor would do is to treat the patient, nurse him to good

health and then counsel him on the need to lead a healthy lifestyle.

What the NCC has done, penalising the four major telecommunications operators for perceived poor quality of service, is to punish a patient with clogged arteries; knowing that the existing infrastructure cannot conveniently deliver high quality of service. Besides, the telcos via a joint statement in the press recently announced that over N1trillion had been spent on network expansion in the past 10 years.

However, to make it more robust the telcos have also pledged that an additional N400 billion would be spent to further enhance existing infrastructure across the networks this year; in order to ensure the delivery of high quality of service. In perspective, this clearly shows a case of a patient with clogged arteries who visited his doctor with a list of healthy lifestyle regimen, showing the route he would follow to reduce his clogged arteries, stand on his feet and be on the road to full recovery.

By extension, the affected operators have pledged to turn good in the next 12 months, while calling for the understanding of all on the current “harsh environment” in which they operate. On the one hand, reducing clogged arteries is not an easy task.

It requires the combined efforts of the doctor, patient and the nursing staff to bring a patient back to life. It is a three-prong healthy living programme involving the doctor, nursing crew and the patient.

After the patient is giving a clean bill of health, he would need regular appointment with the doctor to monitor and ensure he is walking on the “right” lane. That is for a patient with clogged arteries. On the other hand, for telecoms, NCC needs to play the doctor, and do the things it needs to do in order to avoid the present face-off between the “doctor” and the “patient”.

Ok, there is a benchmark. Another question: what has NCC done to ensure strict adherent? Maybe not much; as there are some things NCC cannot control. These would include environmental issues, security, vandalism etc. Wouldn’t these hamper quality of service? Maybe not, maybe yes; it depends.

Shh…do not over-flog this issue. Penalising MTN, Etisalat, Airtel and Glo for the poor quality of services rendered to subscribers in March and April 2012 would not necessarily improve the quality of service. But improving the quality of existing infrastructure and expanding network capacity would clear the clogged arteries while subscribers, NCC and the networks would be happy.

‘What the NCC has done, penalising the four major telecommunications operators for perceived poor quality of service, is to punish a patient with clogged arteries; knowing that the existing infrastructure cannot conveniently deliver high quality of service. Besides, the telcos via a joint statement in the press recently announced that over N1trillion had been spent on network expansion in the past 10 years’

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, , e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

36

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

With ekpoita :funtreatsvilla@yahoo.com / 08077706130

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

DOWN 1.Asterisk(4) 2.Cushion(3) 3.Imitate(3) 4.Disgust(5) 6.Employ(3) 7.One who opposes authority(5) 8.Label(3) 12.Baby talk(2) 15.Pulsates(6) 17.Relaxed(5) 19.Function word for location(2) 20.Sexual love(4)

1.Box(4) 5.Brusque(4) 9.Measuring device(4) 10. Ocean(3) 11.Skillful(5) 13.Rscede(3) 14.Consume(3) 16.Fish(3) 18.Healthy(4) 22.Skill(3) 23.Tough Assignment(4) 25.Very(2) 26.Poem(3) 27.Aids Criminally(5) 28.Seedcase(3)

MINI-SUDOKU

Fill in the blank spaces in the grid such that every column, row and 2 by 3 box contains the numbers 1-6.

ShOWbLiZz The Game ordered to pay $5m to cops

SIMPLY

WEIRD

Crocodile tears man’s testicles to shreds JOBLESS

Oooo weee. yea we know rappers usually tended to have an “eff the police” attitude but this is a lesson in what happens if you really DO try to “eff the police” over. Rapper The Game has to come up off $5 million to a group of officers he used in the film Stop Snitching/ Stop Lying. The film was on a promotional DVD for a mixtape released back in 2005, according to MSN.The officers actually were arresting The Game and claimed they appeared in the DVD without permission. So, they sued The Game for defamation of character. They won the original lawsuit back in 2010, but The Game tried to appeal the ruling, which failed. He needs better people in his corner! Whoever was putting the DVD together should have flagged this from the jump, but...hmm, that might just be thinking too much.

Pep Talk

A 70-year-old man from Zimbabwe narrowly escaped a crocodile attack as he crossed the Chivake River with his pants off — but he lost part of his testicles and suffered a few broken bones in the melee.

Jonah Maturure told the Sunday News that he’d taken off his trousers and put them in a tomato box above his head before he crossed the river. He’d crossed the same spot in the same river several times before, but this time, a giant croc was waiting for him.

“I was not suspecting anything . “It mauled a chunk of my buttocks before attacking my manhood, tearing my testicles into shreds”. The man said.

Realizing that he wasn’t going to save his personal possessions, he threw his tomato box in the river, The Sun reported.

That move have saved his life.

The beast loosened its death grip and swam straight for the tomato box. Maturure escaped, bleeding profusely from his nethers, and ran to a nearby house for help.

The battle was just one of a string of crocodile attacks recently in Gutu, an area with a spread-out population of just 78 people per mile..

MATHS QUIZ Solve & Win! For any of the categories you choose, by solving the quiz in 25 seconds, you win one minute of smiling.

HUMOUR

A policeman sees two men on the street and approaches one of them: “Where do you work?” asks the cop.

“Nowhere! I am unemployed.”

“And you?” says the cop looking straight at the second man.

“I am his deputy!”

PLAYBOY HUSBAND A woman is giving evidence in court. “What were the first words that your husband uttered to you on that morning? she was asked.

“Where am I Doreen?” she replied.

“So why did you hit him?” asked the Judge.

“Because my name is Debora

ORAL RESPONSE Judge says to the accused “When giving your responses, they must all be oral, is that understood?”.

“Yes sir”, replied the accused.

Judge asks him “ What is your address” “Oral” replied the accused.

DEBT RELIEF Two men are waiting to served in the bank when suddenly armed robbers rush in.

Some of the robbers have tellers filling bags with cash whilst some others line customers up and start to take their watches, wallets etc.

In the panic, one of the men puts something into the other man’s hand.

“What is it?” asked the first man “It’s that £100 I owe you” replied the second man.

CHILD MOTHER A phone call came to a school.

Caller: My daughter can’t come to school today.

School Secretary: Alright, but what’s the relation between you and the student?

Caller: This is my mother speaking

A man should have any number of little aims about which he should be conscious and for which he should have names, but he should have neither name for, nor consciousness concerning, the main aim of his life. - Samuel Butler

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

37

SOCIETY Last Saturday Oluwadamilola Abosede and Abiodun Adeleke wedded at the Ikeja Marriage Registry. ABIKE ADEGBULEHIN and DAMILOLA BAMIDELE witnessed the event.

T

WO days before their wedding, the lovebirds pulled dignitaries to the bride parents’ home at Magodo, Lagos for the engagement.

There, the Olaleyes left the Ajadis in no doubt that their daughter, Oluwadamilola is much loved. On the occasion, Alhaji Moshood Ajadi said he took Oluwadamilola as his daughter when his son introduced her to him as his wife to be.

On the wedding day, the look on the face of the groom, Abiodun Ajadi, was one of fulfilment. There was a glint in his eyes that left no one in doubt of his undying love for Oluwadamilola.

At the Ikeja Local Government Marriage Registry, where they both exchanged marital vows, Abiodun and Oluwadamilola, showed that they are truly in love.

They continuously glanced at each other and when the marriage registrar asked them to seal their love with a kiss, they spent an eternity showing how much they meant to each other.

The expansive and tastefully furnished Scorpio Hall of the All Seasons Plaza, Agidingbi, Ikeja, venue of the reception, was beautifully decorated. Green and gold colours were applied to separate the groom’s side while red indicated the bride’s family and their friends. The groom and bride’s parents sat on the high table, separated only by the chairman on the occasion. There was a white canopy adorned with shimmering white lights which set the couple’s sitting arena apart from the crowd. A few metres away, sat the fivelayered cake, from where the couple were to begin their first assignment.

When it was time to dance the love birds dazzled guests with their dance steps, as they were ushered

•The couple Oluwadamilola and Abiodun flanked by their parents (from left): groom’s mother, Alhaja Osenike Ajadi; bride’s father, Elder Olatunji Olaleye; bride’s mum Deaconness Olubunmi Olaleye and groom’s father Alhaji Moshood Ajadi

‘He is caring, loving and wonderful friend’ into the ornately decorated hall with music blaring from speakers strategically mounted round the hall. The couple left no one in doubt that they could dance.

From the moment they stepped into the hall, ushered in by music from the band, many stood up to join them on the dance floor.

Notable personalities at the event were business mogul, Mr Oluwasemire Abogan, who was chairman of the event. Others are Olori Kikelade Olaleye, matriarch of the Olaleye family, who led the family’s entourage from Ibadanland, High

Chief Awosika, Chairman Chrisland Group of Schools; Mr and Mrs Kushimo, Mr Kayode Adesina; Mrs Iyabode Shodiya-Daodu; High Chief Folarin Willams; National President, Rahmat Islamiya Association of Nigeria Dr. A.O. Awelenje.

Others are Chief and Chief Mrs Oluwatayo, Mrs Ade Ajayi, Mrs Oluwakemi Adeleke, Mrs Omolara Ali, and Elder and Deaconess Ayo Badeji, Director Special Projects Lagos State Ministry of Education, Gbenga Abudiore, Mr Gbenga Arojo, Director Nursing Services Lagos State PHC

Board Mrs Olutoyin Odukoya, Mrs Jumoke Jones and Medical Officer for Health Mushin Local Government Dr Adenike Oluwo.

There were members of staff of Mushin Local Government Area, where the bride’s mother works, friends and staff of Stanbic/IBTC Pensions Funds, where the groom works, Alhaji and Alhaja Ajadi groom’s parents and Elder and Deaconess Olatunji Olaleye, bride’s parents.

The event started with a solemn prayer by Elder Ayo Badeji, who delivered

the couple into God’s hands as they began a life-long journey together. It set the tone for Abogan’s advice to the couple.

Abogan described marriage as the first God-ordained institution, where no one but failures ever passed out.

“In marriage, you get the certificate the day you begin the journey, but no one ever graduates from it except those who are not ready to make the institution work.”

He urged the couple to make God the corner piece of their home. “Make Him your counsellor, your ad-

viser and friend. Don’t allow the counsel of anyone not even your parents to prevail in your relationship with each other,” he said.

The couple shortly thereafter performed their marital assignment with the cutting of the cream and wine five -layered cake, supervised by the cake designer Del-eva cakes.

Performing their first public assignment, Oluwadamilola knelt down to give her husband a piece of the cake; Abiodun reciprocated. He fed her with the cake and wine sealing it with a kiss, which lasted for about two minutes.

One of the bridesmaids, Miss Oluwadamilola Jalekun, who works at Agora Capital, caught the beautiful gray and red bouquet.

The groom, Abiodun, said: “I asked God for a wife, friend and the mother of my kids and God gave me someone better than my prayers.

That’s the reason we are here today. Oluwadamilola was respectful, resourceful, hardworking and zealous with abounding energy for the things of the Lord, I thank God for this rare blessing he has bequeathed to me.”

Oluwadamilola also have this to say of her husband: “He is caring, loving and a wonderful friend.”

The bride’s father Elder Olaleye, could not hide his joy seeing daughter exchanging marital vows with her heart’s desire.

“I love and cherished her.

And I am very happy about her choice of husband. My prayer is for God to continue to guide them in the life-long journey.

The groom’s father Alhaji Ajadi said he is proud of his son’s choice of a wife. “She is someone I can proudly call my daughter. She was wellbrought up and disciplined.

“The first day he brought her to the house, I told my wife this is our daughter and we accepted her wholeheartedly immediately,” he said.

It was created 25 years ago. For the first time, the Estate Lawn Tennis Club in Ejigbo, a Lagos suburb, has held a social gathering, AMIDU ARIJE and AMINAT ADESINA report.

Their first time out T

WENTY-FIVE years after its inception, the Estate Lawn Tennis Club in Ejigbo, Lagos, has held its first social event. It held weeklong activities to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The activities included Jumat and Church services; a health enlightenment and climaxed with a gala night at the club’s open field To some members, it was an avenue to discuss business; others saw it as an avenue to make more friends and chat a new beginning in life while some simply saw the occasion as a means of reuniting with old friends whom they have not seen for a long.

There was never a dull moment as guests were entertained with the songs of St Janet and interchangeably with King Wasiu Ayinde’s music.

The gala night was anchored

by Michael Abugo and the

‘It is not my achievement, it is the achievement of all Estate Law Tennis Club. It is one thing to have a vision, it is another thing to embrace that vision, the vision that I have for ever member of this club is what is making what is happening here today. To God be the glory and glory to all members’ opening prayer was said by Hon Moses Adegbesan while the welcome address was given by Mr Segun Alao.

The occasion became more convivial when the coming of St Janet to the party was announced by the master of ceremony received a standing ovation.

The club’s President Alhaji

Lanre Aminu was excited for the success of the event. He was grateful to the club members for their support his administration.

When it was dance time St Janet and her band took to the stage.

Everyone on the occasion could not but dance as the musician sings songs to

•Alhaji Aminu (middle) chatting with Mr Segun Alao. With them is Aminu’s Aishat

praise God and the club member.

“It is not my achievement, it is the achievement of all Estate Law Tennis Club. It is one thing to have a vision, it is another thing to embrace that vision, the vision that I

have for ever member of this club is what is making what is happening here today. To God be the glory and glory to all members,” he said.

Aminu vowed to take the club to a higher level that will bring glory to it in the

future.

Other guests on the occasion included Mr Demola Balogun; Oba Olusegun Adekoya; Abraham Adegoke; Mr Sam Ochulor; Femi Famuyise; Mrs Iyabo Ekunseunmi.

38

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

AGRO-BUSINESS

How rising costs, excess ‘Blueprint vital to food security’ N stock affect poultry A

N increase in production and a rally in the prices of poul try feed products have left the poultry industry in dire straits, a Senior Lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUUNAB), Dr Kola Adebayo, has said.

He told The Nation that while the cost of production is rising, an overflowing stock is keeping the market under pressure.

With the surplus stock, he said it is difficult for producers to sell eggs and broilers at prices high enough to make profit. Domestic demand, he said, is good, noting that the availability of stock is not allowing any improvement in market.

Price of soya beans is on the rise, while other ingredients for poultry feed is under pressure, Adebayo said, adding that the rising price of maize is not helping poultry business. Fish oil and prices of poultry feed products have followed suit, he added.

In Lagos, the Chairman, Poultry Association of Nigeria, Southwest Zone Dr Ayoola Oduntan said animal feed manufacturers were operating below capacity and struggling to cover their costs.

He said the industry is facing uncertainty and is on the verge of collapse because of factors such as the

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

high cost of feeds, which has reduced returns on investment. Because of the shortage of grains, byproducts, oil cakes, prices of animal feeds have been on the increase necessitating an increase in the cost of animal feeds to a point where most farmers are not able to sustain their products.

Farmers, he said, are managing their chickens at a loss and as a result, many have already started to reduce numbers, especially in poultry. Poultry feeds by their quality and price, he said, are some of the the major factors in determining the cost of poultry products such as eggs, broilers and profitability of the poultry farm.

He added that the prices of major raw materials used to make the feed have gone up by between 48 and 89 per cent since March, last year.

Farmers, he noted, have had to absorb the increases without being able to increase the price of a crate of eggs or kilogramme of chicken.

He warned that if the trend continued unabated, most if not all poultry farms would have to reduce their operations or close shop.

Poultry feeds produced by commercial feed mills, he said, are handicapped on account of raw materials, which are transported from

the north, adding that the increase in diesel cost by about 70 per cent has added to the problem.

Given the increased demand for Soya beans by China and other producing countries, there are indications of the trend leading to a significant change in buying patterns and causing a tight supply situation for local poultry producers.

Meanwhile, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has warned that feed prices are expected to rise as a result of a contraction in soybean production, Figures from the FAO Food Index, released in this month, have shown a surge in soybean prices, with “growing concern” about this season’s exceptionally tight supplies of soybeans and derived products, particularly in the US and South America.

It said global soybean production is estimated to decrease by almost 10 per cent.

It warned that global beef production is forecast to stagnate at 67.5m tonnes this year, but that indications of slowing import demand, especially for pig and poultry meats, could result in a moderation of meat prices in the coming months.“Along with high feed costs, this is raising concern about the profitability of the meat sector in 2012,” it said.

IGERIA has the capacity to meet national food demand if the nation has a broad-based blueprint, a Food Security and Safety Consultant and Co-ordinator, Vulnerable Empowerment Initiative Network (VEIN), Ms Nnenna Nwoke Kalu, has said.

She said the government would kick off agricultural industrialisation through increased production and processing across the value chains.

She called on the health and agric sector to collaborate to produce food products that can be used for prevention and cure.

Kalu said there could be no better time than now to get the nutrition plan off the ground.

According to Ms Kalu, “It will be a comprehensive programme that must adopt a wide-ranging approach to reducing mothers’ and children’s high risk and vulnerability.

“Nutritional empowerment is cheaper, more widespread and with assured results.”

Though nutrition education, management and intervention might be expensive in the shortrun, they will absorb the cost of curative care in the long-term.

She canvassed a faithful nutrition empowerment policy, saying it is the key to malnutrition eradication and better health as well as accelerating the attainment of the MillenniumDevelopment Goals (MDGs).

She lamented the challenges in areas where Nigeria ought to be celebrating major breakthroughs and successes.

She observed that though, in the 2009 World Food Day on Saving the vulnerable in crisis, the emphasis was how the financial meltdown was impacting the world food situation, today, however, it is evident that the crisis has assumed a near-permanent position, begging for solution.

Veterinarians seek animal health ministry

M

EMBERS of the Nigeria Veterinarians Medical Association (NVMA) have urged President Goodluck Jonathan to create a ministry of animal health.

Speaking at the World Veterinary Day in Akure, the Ondo State Capital, the National President of the association, Dr. Adams Enahoro, said the ministry would have an impact on the economy.

The theme for this year’s Veterinarians’Day is “Antimicrobial Resistance.”

He said the ministry would help to reduce the spread of diseases.

He lamented that some livestock farmers use unauthorised drugs for animals, urging farmers to not to purchase drugs from non-veterinarians.

He, however, said there is a working relationship between the association and other medical professionals to cure diseases emanating from the consumption of livestock.

He appealed to the Federal Government to regulate animal farms in the country to secure the health of people who eat meat.

From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

He said: “Every livestock farmers should be forced to have a veterinary doctor that will be in charge of the treatment of animals.

We are concerned about how butchers kill animals without proper health testing. If the government should enforce this on livestock farmers, this will help to reduce the high of diseases always transmitted from animals to human beings.

“Most of these bills are at the National Assembly. We are urging the lawmakers to speedily pass them into laws so that the society can be free from animals’ poor health.”

He added: “We want the establishment of animal clinics in all local governments.”

He called for the eradication of nomadic farming to stop the incessant rift, which normally occur between the crop farmers and nomadic farmers.

The veterinary doctor also called for the establishment of standard and well-equipped gracing reserves, which will contain the daily need of the livestock.

World Bank lauds Lagos agric •From left: Angela Stene, Technical Lead Consultant,PACA, ABTA Associates Inc,United States; President, Mycotoxiclogy Society of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Atanda; Vice-Chancellor, Fountain University, Prof Hussain Oloyede; Mr Agunbiade; Prof Fapohunda and Plant Pathologist, International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA),Dr Ranajit Bandyopadhyay, at the event.

Our score card in agric, by Aregbesola

O

SUN State Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has said his administration is creating an enabling environment for people to engage in farming to enable them to have good prospects, and dignity.

The governor spoke at a stakeholders’meeting on aflatoxins at the Fountain University, Osogbo.

Represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Adeloye Agunbiade, Aregbesola said rejuvenating agriculture was one of the strategies of his administration to banish hunger, poverty and unemployment.

He said increasing productivity is vital to addressing the problems of hunger and unemployment.

At the inception of the administration, the Governor said a survey was carried out on sources of food in the state, which indicated that most of the items consumed were being imported.

“We discovered that rice imported

from Asia flooded the market while meat from Niger Republic and Burkina Faso dominated the market while most of the fish displayed for sale are imported frozen fish of dubious hygiene and health status,” he added.

To reverse this, the governor said 30,000 hectares of land had been acquired for food production as part of the state’s agriculture policy.

He said the government has started helping farmers through the scheme. According to him, the Osun State Rural Enterprise and Agriculture Programme(O-REAP) is the vehicle the government is using to drive agriculture in the state.

On aflatoxins, the governor said they are toxic metabolites produced by certain fungi in food and feed.

According to him, the aflatoxin problem is not well-known to some farmers. Once people are made to understand its danger, he said they would be careful in se-

lecting food and feedstuffs. He also said the government is ready to implement a preventive strategy to reduce exposure to mycotoxins.

A former president Mycotoxiclogy Society of Nigeria, Prof Dele Fapohunda, noted that increasing aflatoxins in crops is a big problem in the animal feed industry. He said the effects of aflatoxins are reduced growth and poor health status of fish and other animals.

He observed that the incidence of aflatoxincosis is common among farmers and other people. He urged national agencies to initiate programmes to educate farmers and households on its menace.

Fapohunda pointed out that the inhibition of fungal growth can be achieved by physical, chemical and biological means. These include immediate reduction of moisture content on freshly harvested produce, minimise harvesting damage and provide a good storage.

T

HE Country Director (World Bank) Ms Francois Marie Nelle has commended the Lagos State Government for the implementation of Commercial Agriculture Development in the state.

Speaking in Lagos, the Country Director, who represented by the Task Team Leader Commercial Agriculture Development Project (CADP) Dr. Lucas Akapa said the support has started to manifest in laudable projects such as the road rehabilitation project, energy interventions to support agro-processing technology enhancing subprojects.

He assured the state Government that the World Bank would continue to partner with it in the project’s implementation in the state.

The Minister of State for Agriculture Mr Bukar Tijani said the Lagos State agricultural policy tallies with the Federal Government’s Transformation Agenda to ensure food security.

He said the Federal Government would do more when it comes to agricultural commercialisation to make food sufficient and improve agricultural value chains.

He praised the state government for its investment in the project interventions, which he described as its response to meeting the

people’s aspiration.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Co-operativesPrince Gbolahan Lawal said: “Our collaboration with the Federal Government and the World Bank in the Commercial Agricultural Development Projects (CADP) has continued on a fruitful path,especially in improving the business environment for agriculture by assisting participating small and medium scale commercial farmers to the market.”

The state Project Co-ordinator Lagos CADP Mr Bolaji Balogun said rural infrastructure is one of the major components of the Commercial Agricultural Development Project.

Hightlighting the effort of the project to boost activities at the Ikorodu farm state, Balogun said prior to its intervention, the estate was serviced by deplorable earth road that impedes easy movement of farm input and produce within the estate, thus constituting a major disinvestment in the aquaculture value chain.

By providing roads, Balogun said, the programme has reduced drastically the travel cost, time and improved the productivity at the state’s fish farm estate.

According to him, many allotees, who hitherto abandoned their farms have moved back to the estate to start production as a result of improved road network.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

39

AGRO-BUSINESS STATE FOCUS

Creating agro business opportunities in Gombe

A

•From left: Deputy Speaker, Jigawa State House of Assembly, Mr Inuwa Sule; Chairman of the occasion, Chief Madaki Auta, and Kaduna State Commissioner for Agriculture, Malam Lamaran Giwa, at the Northern Youth Agricultural Revolution Summit in Kaduna.

‘Improve feed analysis to save livestock’

A

N expert, Prof Abiodun Adeloye has called on the government to strengthen quality control in feed analysis to save the livestock industry.

Adeloye of the Department of Animal Production, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), said there was a need to ascertain the quality of feed analysis from laboratories to boost the growth of animal agriculture.

Without quality control, the don said, companies would supply poor feed products which cannot quarantee

By Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

enhanced animal productivity. He added that providing infrastructure for animal product quality and welfare is a pre-requisite for formulating a diet for optimum animal production.

The foundation of a safe and healthy animal meat supply, he said, is hinged on a system of food inspection laws which ensure that there are standard laboratories to provide dependable feed analysis.

Adeloye said the feed in-

spection system should be consistently reviewed and updated, adding that reform should be based on risk and scientifically-proven technologies.

Today ‘s animal husbandry system, he said, requires a look at how to ensure a better feed production.

Adeloye said feed analyses are needed to ensure that the components are not vulnerable to pathogens, contaminants, adulterants, diseases and other food quality issues.

He said inspectors should work with the livestock in-

dustry to promote standard feed products.

Regulations and inspection methods for feeds should be based on riskbased analyses, he said. The regulations and inspection methods resulting from this process, the expert tells government, should be applied in a uniformly across the industry.

He urged federal agencies to establish protocols by which they can accept state inspection and feed sampling analytical work for use in enforcement activities.

Agbekoya urges National Assembly to consider Cassava Bread Bill T HE National Executive Council of Agbekoya Farmers Association, has thrown its weight behind the 20 per cent inclusion of cassava in the manufacturing of bread flour and cassava bread in the country.

In a statement, the group’s Publicity Secretary, Chief Olatunji Bandele, warned National Assembly members against stalling the development by refusing to accent to its bill.

Therefore, the farmers association hereby gives the

N

By Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

National Assembly a 21-day ultimatum to reconsider the bill, or face the wrath of Agbekoya and the Nigerians.

In the statement, he quoted the President-General, Agbekoya Farmers Association Worldwide, Chief Kamorudeen Aremu Okikiola, as saying: “Cassava bread will boost food

production and employment generation in the country.

NAFDAC has approved the inclusion of cassava in the production of bread flour in Nigeria after considering its nutrients and health implications. Therefore, for the National Assembly members to say no and refuse to accent to the Bill that will make this a law in this country simply shows an anti-Nigerian stance of the government and the economy”.

Okikiola added: “Nigeria spends N230billion on wheat importation annually; wisdom says increase your strength and lessen your weakness; cassava is our strength. We are calling on the National Assembly members to reconsider the bill for approval in the interest of Nigerians and the economy; if not, the Agbekoya Farmers Association, with all its allies, will champion an anti–National Assembly protest, and label them as enemies of progress.”

100 farmers’ co-operatives in Abia merge

O fewer than 100 farmer groups have merged to form the Abia Farmers Co-operative Union Ltd, the President, Chief Nwaogwugwu Uzochukwu, has said.

He said the merger would end the sufferings of farmers.

In recent times he said, farmers were finding it difficult to purchase fertiliser and other farm inputs.

However, Uzochukwu said the union would continue to pursue the interests of its

members.”Our aim is to solve the problems of farmers and this we will do with the cooperation of the state government,’’ he said.

He said the body had set machinery in motion to provide a good quantity of fertiliser to farmers in Abia for this farming season.”We are aware of the efforts of the state government to refocus the economy and to ensure food security as well as actualising the ideals of poverty reduction.

“This group has emerged to bring into focus the need for registered farmers cooperatives to affiliate to the union. ”This shall go a long way in streamlining the activities of member groups for increased food production.’’

He appealed to the government to liaise with the group in formulating policies that would bring succour to farmers in the state.

The Certificate of Recognition was presented to the union by Dr Akobundu Origa,

the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, who represented Mr Solomon Adaelu, the Abia Commissioner for Co-operatives and Poverty Reduction. He appealed to the group’s officials to perform their duties in line with laid down rules and regulations. ”This administration is working hard to chart a new course of economic empowerment for the people and co-operative societies remain the vehicle for achieving this,“ he said.

Feed prices to rise as soyabean production contracts

F

EED prices are expected to rise following contraction in soyabean production, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has warned.

Figures from the FAO Food Index, released this month, have shown a surge in

soyabean prices, with “growing concern” about this season’s exceptionally tight supplies of soyabeans and derived products, particularly in the United States (US) and South America. It said global soyabean pro-

duction is estimated to decrease by almost 10 per cent.

Global maize quotations declined by 2.5 per cent, reflecting good production prospects, while wheat prices fell slightly, by just over 1 per cent. There was a slight rise

in meat prices, up one per cent from last month, to a new record of 182 points.

The FAO attributed this increase to rising quotations of all meats except sheepmeat.

Pig meat prices rose the most, followed by beef and poultry.

GRICULTURE is a major employer in Gombe State. This sector is critical to the attainment of food security and also has the potential to achieve foreign exchange earnings and create employment.

The state has vast areas of arable land and there is potential for expansion of agricultural production to help meet local demand and take advantage ofexport opportunities.

The state’ s main agricultural products include beans, cotton,potato production, tomato, cucumbers, cabbage, watermelon. cereals, roots and tubers, pulses, nuts, oils, vegetables, fruits, and industrial crops, while cattle and goat herding is the mainstay of it’s animal husbandry industry.

Agro-food is a largest subsegment of the state’s industrial sector. The main subsegments include fruit and vegetable processing, vegetable and animal oil and fats, dairy products and grain mill products.

Sixty per cent production is devoted to crop and plant cultivation,while 40 per cent is derived from animal husbandry. With this in mind the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has developed an action plan to expand crop production.

It focuses on restoring and upgrading agricultural are where major fruits, vegetables, and cotton are cultivated .

The ministry promote the importance of diversification and cultivation of alternative crops. To this end, the ministry redoubled its efforts to improve drainage and irrigation works across the state to adequately address the changing weather patterns of drought and heavy rainfall.

The action include the delivery of training to farmers as well as technicians in the Ministry of Agriculture, provision of toolsand equipment and identification and implementation of strategies to promote agro business.

With an increase in the level of crop production, it will be critical to ensure that there is a stable and consistent market for the output of local farmers. At the same time, that efforts are being pursued to enhancecrop production, the government will expedite the preparation of similar action plans to enhance output and competitiveness in fisheries and livestock.

The sector is undergoing restructuring aimed at consolidating and adding value to the nation’s’s agricultural produce.

Gombe is moving away from a traditional agricultural commodity based economy through to one that is more in tune with where markets are heading. This is essential if the state is to advance economically and socially.

Gombe ’s agriculture sector is undergoing reform aimed at improving infrastructure and moving produce up the value chain.

The sector faces challenges related to high energy,

labour, and irrigation costs, the fragmented nature of the sector, the absence of agricultural credit, and unbalanced urbanisation.

With plans afoot for the government to provide more incentives to agricultural producers, the attractiveness of the sector to is likely to increase. One potential means of industry support is provision of agricultural inputs.

For the government, reaching the central goals of its vision for agriculture require contributions from every stakeholder of agriculture: large-scale producers and subsistence growers.

To revitalisze the sector, createsustainable rural employmentand meet growing demandfor diverse food choices.

The strategy is to lease land to private investors in return for implementing advanced production, developing value-add facilities, employing rural people and aggregating the produce of small farmers .

In this system, private players invest their resources andknow-how for highervalue agriculture, including cashcrops, irrigation efficiency and processing.

The government is determined to create jobs and double agricultural production.

There is potential for development and the government want to tap resources of produce that could be mass produced for feed and a range of industrial products.

The state ministry of agriculture is encouraging farmers to embrace new technologies, and increase production using good agricultural practices (GAP).

The extension officers within the ministry are hard at work with the farmers, and now “farmers are using chemicals and fertiliser more efficiently while reducing erosion and employing responsible tillage practices.

The result is increased production on fewer acres with minimal environmental impacts.

The Veterinary and Livestock Division is taking great pride in caring for their animals and their operations.

“They also take seriously their responsibility for delivering safe and nutritious beef, pork, lamb and poultry products to consumers in a sustainable manner by combining quality assurance techniques with common sense animal husbandry practices.

•Gov Ibrahim Dankwambo

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

40

COMMENTARY

T

HIS world is a dramatic entity mysteriously coded in parables.

Every living thing therein sees it and relates to it according to its own nature of existence. It takes history to decode it only after the actors might have left the stage. Who are we? Where are we coming from? And where are we going from here? These are some of the questions which all rational human beings, nations and governments should ask themselves from time to time.

But such questions have virtually been rendered irrelevant because the circumstances of life have changed the priorities of man. The only question now in vogue, which every Nigerian in public office seems to be answering, in his or her own way is: ‘what am I getting for myself from this?’ We are now in a material world controlled by the notion of capitalism.

The question of ‘SELF’ first is the real drama that permanently engages the attention of most Nigerians today. It is the question that crowns money as the undisputable king of the world. It is the question that fosters greed and fetters governance in this country to the stake of Satan. It is the question that presents mirage to our so-called rulers as the only substance worthy of pursuit. It is the question that banishes conscience in our politicians and deifies injustice in the land. Incidentally, however, no answer to that question has ever proffered any solution to any of our problems. Were such an answer properly proffered, it would have rather confirmed the ephemerality of this world and guided those straying politicians aright.

What can we say of a man who fixes his eyes on the sun but does not see it?

Instead, he sees a chorus of flaming seraphim announcing a paroxysm of despair.

That is the parable of the country called Nigeria; a country which cannot feed her citizens even in the midst of plenty.

Like the Israelis of Moses’ time, Nigerians have become gypsies wandering aimlessly in rigmarole and hopelessly wallowing in abject poverty without any justification. What else do we expect from Allah beyond the invaluable bounties with which He has blessed us?

What is Nigeria not blessed with? We have land in abundance, not in terms of size alone but also in terms of agrarian soil and rich vegetation. At least over 77 million hectares of land is said to be arable in Nigeria. Out of this, less than 32 million hectares is said to have been cultivated for various agricultural activities. This, we are told, has even dwindled to about 24 million square hectares as more and more youths keep migrating from villages to cities and towns for greener proverbial pastures while the real farmers are growing too old for farming.

We are blessed with excellent weather that favours agriculture in all seasons.

We are blessed with rainfalls that water our plants from the sky and graze our animals to satisfaction. The Qur’an testifies to this in chapter 80 thus: “Let man reflect on the food he eats; how ‘We’ pour down the rain in torrents and cleave the earth asunder; how ‘We’ bring forth the corn, the grapes, the fresh vegetation, the olive, the palm, the thickets, the fruitful trees and the green pasture for you and for your cattle to delight in…” Allah’s favours are regular and constant.

We cannot deny them.

In addition to the aforementioned, we have energetic and dedicated work force that is married to the farm land and animal husbandry in Nigeria except that they are mostly rendered idle by the system in place. We also have intellectual brains that are always ready to engage in useful research days and nights to ensure agricultural improvement of our country as well as other spheres of development.

Nigeria is not lacking in forest and savannah. She is rich in rivers and mountains all of which are great resources for people who are seeking reasonable comfort and are not self-deceptive.

What we lack is a responsible government that should manage those resources and care about our foremost heritage which is agriculture. That food is becoming a threat to Nigerians today is purely due to naivety and gross incompetence of our governments beginning with the disastrous eight years of Olusegun Obasanjo’s governance.

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

The unanswered questions

•Minister of Agriculture Akinwumi Adesina At a time when the yearning for good government as a replacement for military dictatorship was uppermost in the minds of Nigerians, he (Obasanjo) emerged from the prison like the Biblical Joseph boosting the glowing expectation of Nigerians.

As a farmer that he claimed to be, was expected to act like Chairman Mao of China who started the revolution of his country with agricultural self-sufficiency. But this parochial demagogue eventually confirmed that no one can give what he does not have. Those who imposed him on us have openly confessed their calamitous error and expressed belated regret.

Today, Nigeria is by far worse than what she was two decades ago as the cost of running government alone is enough to render the country bankrupt. What are we doing with over 40 federal ministers when even the US with her huge economic resources, technology, large population and financial wherewithal has only ten federal ministers? Why must we have two ministers in every ministry?

Why must we have separate ministers for agriculture and water resources?

Where is the Federal Government’s farm to justify that?

Besides, what informs the idea of the so-called constituency allowances for legislators, at the federal and state levels, running into billions of naira, especially at a time when innocent women and children are crying for food in the

‘What we lack is a responsible government that should manage those resources and care about our foremost heritage which is agriculture. That food is becoming a threat to Nigerians today is purely due to naivety’ country that belongs to all of us? And, by the way, what qualifies the Federal Government for over 52% of the country’s total revenue?

Governance in Nigeria has become an artful trick adopted by a clique of lotus eaters to bamboozle the populace into blind submission. The propaganda in the 1980s when the military still held sway was almost hypnotising: ‘food and shelter for all in the year 2000!’ That slogan was changed in the 1990s to: ‘Vision 2010!’ And when year 2010 began to approach, the slogan again changed to: ‘Mission 20, 20, 20!’

Now, without roads, without electricity, without rail transportation system, without refineries for our crude oil, without a national airline, without viable industries, without jobs for majority of the able-bodied citizens and even without food on our tables, we are still being told to expect Nigeria to become one of the 20 biggest economies in the world in year 2020. Isn’t that a deliberate and callous deception? Who is fooling who?

No country in history has ever been known to have achieved economic vibrancy by magic. Nigeria cannot be an exception.

In an FAO report as far back as 2008, about 300 Nigerians were said to be dying of hunger daily right here in Nigeria.

Only God knows how many Nigerians are dying of hunger daily today. But rather than addressing that sad news in a manner that could bring succour, to

‘Governance in Nigeria has become an artful trick adopted by a clique of lotus eaters to bamboozle the populace into blind submission. The propaganda in the 1980s when the military still held sway was almost hypnotising: ‘food and shelter for all in the year 2000!’ That slogan was changed in the 1990s to: ‘Vision 2010!’ And when year 2010 began to approach, the slogan again changed to: ‘Mission 20, 20, 20!’

the poor masses our government continues to assure us of becoming one of the biggest economies in the world in 2020 even as the easy money accruing from our petroleum resources is being audaciously funnelled into private bank accounts abroad. The recent scandalous petroleum subsidy and pension scheme scam as well as the unprecedented disappearance of N155 billion into thin air are a glaring evidence of what Nigeria has become against what she ought to be. And now, corruption has been globally identified and confirmed to be a Nigerian as expressed by the US State Department last week in her indictment of Nigerian government on what she called massive corruption at all levels of governance. Yet, President Jonathan did not give the obnoxious issue of corruption any priority in his lengthy ‘Democracy Day’ broadcast to the nation last Tuesday.

All said and done, anyway, a fire brigade approach to food crisis in a country like Nigeria is a shameful reaction to an avoidable melancholy. It is rather ironic that people who live by the river bank can’t get water to drink when those living in the desert can find a reliable oasis to combat any drought. Given all the resources with which we are endowed, Nigerians should have no business with poverty let alone hunger.

Wherever injustice replaces law, restiveness must take the centre stage. That is why Nigeria is now an endangered country.

Capitalism, which was once an economic ideology propelling mercantilism, has moved a step ahead, especially in Nigeria where official theft has become a profession. Capitalism is now a religion through which its adherents worship money as their god. To such adherents, accountability is a mere riddle which only the poor may want to unravel.

It is only in the interest of those in government, especially the executive arm which is mostly selected rather than elected, to let the national wealth spread across board legitimately if only to avoid the current Lagos situation where every house has become a prison in which the occupants are voluntary inmates. That situation has now been copied in many other states in Nigeria. To ignore the rule of law and shun justice in a land blessed with milk and honey is to cultivate insecurity in all its ramifications.

Where people are well educated and conscious of their rights; where they perceive wealth acquisition as partly the result of hard work and partly a matter of equal opportunity and not the exclusive right of any group; where they see themselves as qualified but denied their legitimate entitlements; no government can consign them to ignominy indefinitely. They will surely react in no uncertain terms. That is what is currently threatening the security of the country which must not be allowed to continue.

Let justice reign through the rule of law that Nigeria may grow from a country into a nation which we may all be proud to live in as citizens. Otherwise, many more questions will remain unanswered for a long time. And the consequences will not be palatable. “Allah will not change the situation of a people until they resolve to correct their misdemeanour”.

MUSWEN’s essay competition

T

HE final stage of the third annual Essay Competition of the Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN) will come up on Sunday, June 10, 2012 in sha’Allah. The venue is the Headquarters of MUSWEN at No 46, Iwo Road, Ibadan and the time is 11.00 am prompt. Only SS2 and SS3 Muslim students from the six Southwest states who participated in the first stage which took place in their respective states recently and qualified for the final will be allowed to take part. Such qualified students will be contacted by MUSWEN’S Head office before the final day. For further enquiries, please contact 08023294466, 08027442330 or 07055711756.

FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

43

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Separation of Power is a major feature of the presidential system of government. Hon. Justice Oluwadare Aguda (Rtd) submits in this piece that the legislature in Nigeria is systematically usurping the functions of both the executive and the judiciary, warning that this could hamper political stability and socio-economic development.

National Assembly’s oversight functions and fair hearing

T

HE public hearing conducted by a committee of the House of Representatives on March 14, 2012 during which specific charges of corruption were made by the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, (SEC) Ms Aruma Oteh, against the chairman of the committee, Mr Herman Hembe, raises fundamental questions about Nigeria’s system of government.

According to a report, “as part of its Oversight Functions, the House [of Representatives] Committee on Capital Market and Institutions set out last week to probe the manifest cause of [the] near collapse of the capital market” two years ago. The Nation March 20, 2012 (p. 1) The report went on to state that Mr Hembe had “… told Ms Oteh ‘you are not fit to regulate the sector.’ He accused Ms Oteh of profligacy, telling her that she had ‘been spending money as if it was going out of fashion since assuming office one year ago’.

“You stayed in a hotel for eight months and spent over N30 million. In one day you spent N85,000 on food at the hotel. The other day you spent N850,000 on food. These are the things we should look at to see how you will regulate a market that is collapsing” The Nation, March 21, 2012 (p. 2) Completely taken by surprise, Ms Oteh could not put up a defence on the spot. She was able to say, however: ‘Mr. Chairman, I question your credibility to preside over this probe. On 20th October last year, you were given a cheque to travel to the Dominican Republic to attend a conference... yet you did not attend the conference. Can you tell Nigerians that you returned the money when you did not travel? In asking SEC to contribute N39 million for this public hearing, don’t you think that you are undermining your capacity to carry out your duties?”

She also accused Mr Hembe of asking for N5 million for himself. Ms Oteh was reported to have gone further to say: ‘This has been a Kangaroo court. Not even in Idi Amin’s Uganda did we have this type of public hearing …

“I do not think that it is appropriate for you to have gathered information from the SEC and without even asking us to verify that information, to respond to that issue, you already made the judgment that you made; we are trying to build a democracy [in Nigeria].

I will like to say to the Nigerian people that I do not think that I am given a fair hearing.’

While bribery and corruption could seriously undermine any system of government, they are not as fundamental in the damage they can do to a system of government as the breach of the principle of separation of powers or as a disregard for fair hearing. Both of these defects in Nigeria’s present system of government have come out glaringly in this episode Had Mr Hembe followed the requisite judicial requirement to give an accused person prior notice of the charges he is going to face at his trial, he would have found, as Ms Oteh’s subsequent defence showed, that Ms Oteh had plausible explanations for the allegations Mr Hembe was making against her. However, the most important point at issue here is not whether Mr Hembe’s accusations against Ms Oteh are true or whether the truth lies on Ms Oteh’s side. The fundamental issues are that Mr Hembe’s committee of the Legislature breached the principle of separation of powers by conducting judicial or quasi-jusicial proceedings and, in doing so, seriously violated the most fundamental rule of fair hearing. Mr Hembe obtained information from the SEC without giving that body or Ms Oteh the opportunity of commenting on it before using it to arrive at his judgment. He did not let Ms Oteh know in advance the charge or charges she was coming to meet during his committee’s investigation.

The time-honoured procedure for the conduct of judicial or quasi-judicial proceedings has long been well established by the courts in all the common law countries, including

‘Democratic government in Nigeria is now seriously undermined by the Legislature’s usurpation of both executive and judicial functions. Even if such omnibus powers were to be granted to the legislative arm of government by the Constitution, it would, nonetheless, be highly damaging to the country’s system of government.

The damaging effect of the Legislature’s totalitarian approach to governance is made worse by the very high level of corruption prevailing in the country’ • Justice Aguda

Nigeria. That procedure requires that any person against whom any allegation is made, or whose interest may be adversely affected by such allegation, or by any statement made, must be clearly and fully informed of such allegations or statements in advance of any trial or investigation involving him.

Before an accused person is required to make his defence or counter any statements adversely affecting him or his interest, the following requirements must be complied with.

First, he must be given the details of all allegations or statements made against him; he must be told who made those accusations or adverse statements against him; then he must be afforded reasonable time and opportunity to prepare his defence effectively to all the matters at issue; finally, he must be able to confront and challenge his accuser or accusers at his trial or during any investiagation.

These requirements apply in all situations and to all proceedings involving any form of trial or investigation no matter who conducts the trial or carries out the investigation and for whatever purpose. [See Kanda vs The Government of the Federation of Malaya (1962) A C 322, 337.]

Based on the above principles, the Nigerian courts would not hesitate to condemn as ‘a procedure completely unknown to law’ the manner in which Mr Hembe’s committee interrogated Ms Oteh. Not only had Ms Oteh not been informed of the charges against her in advance of the hearing, she had not been told the source or sources of the allegations levelled against her. From the media reports, it came out clearly that Mr Hembe was both the accuser, the prosecutor and the judge during the probe. The obviously flawed approach adopted by the House of Representatives’ committee in its conduct of the quasijudicial proceedings makes it clear why, under the principle of separation of powers, judicial functions are assigned to the Judiciary in the Constitution.

Does the National Assembly, or either of its two chambers, have the constitutional power to conduct the kind of investigation into the Securities and Exchange Commission that the House of Representatives’ committee embarked upon? And even if the House has that constitutional competence, did it follow the procedure laid down in the Constitution?

The answers to both of these questions are in the negative. Nevertheless, Nigerian legislators claim and exercise such powers. In 2007, the President of the Senate, Senator David Mark and Nigeria’s most powerful leg-

islator to date, told his fellow Senators: “It is our responsibility to review the circumstances of the recent list of indicted persons by the EFCC to ensure that the power exercised by the EFCC was not ... contrary to the provisions of the EFCC Act. We need to inquire why some persons whom EFCC had charged to court for corrupt practices were not disqualified from elective office while persons [members of the Senate] not yet charged are now faced with disqualification.”The Nation, Feb 21, 2007 (p.47).

Surely, it should be the function of the Judiciary, and not that of the Senate, to determine whether or not the EFCC has acted outside the law that set it up?

The legislature has continually extended its exercise of these powers into all areas of governance. For example, the Senate committee on Aviation recently imposed fines on some foreign airlines allegedly for charging Nigerian travellers discriminatory air fares. A newspaper reported that after a Public hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Aviation: “British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Emirate, and eight other airlines were allegedly found culpable in the payment demand (sic) by the Senate Committee on Aviation that investigated the matter… Apart from tax evasion, the airlines were also accused of arbitrary fixing of fares and colluding with dubious aviation officials to shortchange Nigerian air travelers.”

The Senate committee ordered the airlines to refund N230 billion to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). “The Hope Uzodinma-led Aviation Committee mandated the airlines to make the refund or risk necessary sanction. The committee also directed NCAA to review the British Airways Service Agreement (BASA) with British Airways. The committee is said to be angry with the foreign airlines and may summon them for another round of talks this week.”

(Radio Nigeria) Another committee of the Senate ordered the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to withdraw its 2000 newly employed operatives of the Authority for alleged lack of training in the use of arms. On May 11, 2012, The Nation (p.6) reported that “Senate slashes cost of [vehicle] number plates and drivers’ licences”. On May 16, 2012, Radio Nigeria reported that the Senate had ordered the Inspector-General of Police to arrest the managing director of Industrial and General In-

surance Company and bring him to the Senate “in hand-cuffs” for failing to meet some claims made on the company by a number of government parastals.

The Nation of May 17, 2012 (p.. 17) reported that in reaction to a planned House of Representatives’ “investigation and tax audit of about 180 companies,” the chairman of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce Industry and Agriculture [NACCIMA], Dr Ademola Ajayi, condemned the move as “unconstitutional,’ saying that industrialists were disturbed by the move and had gone to court to challenge it..

Are these proper functions of a legislative house? The principle of separation of powers is the most fundamental element in the jigsaw of a modern system of democratic government. Under the Nigerian Constitution, the Legislature is not given the power to carry out what the Legislators now call “Oversight Functions” which often involves both the performance of judicial and executive functions.

With respect to any kind of investigations which the Legislature may consider necessary, the Constitution gives the National Assembly only the power “to direct or cause to be directed”, that such inquiry should be carried out. The provision is contained in section 88 of the Constitution for the National Assembly and section 128 for State Houses of Assembly.

Section 88 of the Constitution provides as follows: “(1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, each House of the National Assembly shall have power by resolution published in its journal or in the Official Gazette of the Government of the Federation to direct or cause to be directed an investigation into - (a) any matter or thing with respect to which it has power to make laws; and (b) the conduct of affairs of any person, authority, ministry, or government department charged, or intended to be charged, with the duty [of] or responsibility for executing or administering (i) laws enacted by the National Assembly; (ii) disbursing or administering moneys appropriated or to be appropriated by the National Assembly.

(2) The powers conferred on the National Assembly under the provisions of this section are exercisable only for the purpose of enabling it to (a) make laws with respect to any matter within its legislative competence and correct any defect in existing laws; and (b) expose corruption, inefficiency or waste in the execution or administration of laws within its legislative competence and in the disbursement or administration of funds appropriated by it.”

It is clear from the above that the powers granted to the National Assembly under the Constitution are “to direct or cause to be directed an investigation into .. ..” the various matters enumerated in subsection (1) of section 88 and that they “are exercisable only for the purpose of enabling” the Legislature (a) to make laws with respect to certain specified matters and (b) to expose corruption, inefficiency and waste. The power is required to be exercised “by resolution published in its journal or in the Official Gazette of the Government of the Federation”.

An episode in the Enugu State House of Assembly in February 2008 illustrates the manner in which the power is meant to be exercised in accordance with the above provison of the Constitution. According to the newspaper report, the House set up a committee to probe the former Governor of the State, Chimaroke Nnamani “following a request from the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria [ALGON] which demanded an audit of the accounts of the [State’s Local Government] councils between 1999 and 2007 when Nnamani was in power.”

The committee, having done its job, its chair•Continued on page 44

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

44

POLITICS

Mimiko must not return, says PDP aspirant

P

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ondo State Mr. Moyosore NiranOladunni has urged the people to vote Governor Olusegun Mimiko out of office. He said the state needs a better governor to steer its affairs.

Oladunni, who spoke with reporters in Lagos, also warned against underrating the PDP, saying that the party would spring surprise at the poll.

Apart from him, other PDP aspirants are the former Head of Service, Mr. Gboyega Isijola, former Military Administrator, Capt. Ade Adeusi, former Speaker of House of Assembly, an architect, Olu Adeyeye, Mr. Victor Olabimtan, former chairman of the party, Dr. Dare Bada and businessman, Jimoh Ibrahim. However, it could not be ascertained whether Ibrahim had paid the N1m nomination fee required by the party’s state executive committee led by Mr. Ebenezer Alabi.

Oladunni, a businessman, declared that the forthcoming election would jolt people out of the delusion that PDP is dead in Ondo State. The aspirant said contrary to rumours making the rounds, there is no factionalisation in Ondo PDP. He stressed that Labour Party (LP) and Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN) have not read the political climate accurately.

The aspirant said that Mimiko

•Niran-Oladunni

By Emmanuel Oladesu

government has thrive largely through media propaganda, which he said, will collapse before the election.

He said: “Ondo will vote for candidates, not parties and the party that can give a leverage is the PDP. People are looking for candidates with the required ability, credibility, and their antecedents because they want a change. People don’t want Mimiko to return. Governor Agagu left N58 billion in the cof-

fers and a lot of projects. What has happened to them?

“There are three parties in the race; Labour Party, ACN and PDP. The PDP has structures in all the wards that are politically active.

There are six PDP aspirants in the race and they are eminently qualified to fly the flag. The aspirants are better than those being paraded by other parties and I have the chance to emerge as the candidate”.

Oladunni said that he is from a constituency and district in Akoko that has not produced the governor before, stressing that, if equity and fair play are considered, he is the candidate to beat.

He added: “I have the experience as a manager of men and resources.

I understand the way government and the system work. I have the commitment and patriotism. My vision is to make Ondo an industrial hub. With me as governor of Ondo State, reference would not be made of Fashola as the best in performance.

The aspirant unfolded four cardinal programmes of economic and agricultural development, free and qualitative education, free medical services for children and the aged and infrastructural development.

He said: “Ondo should not rely on federal government allocation again. We have what it takes to bring development and prosperity to the state”.

Edo 2012: Group canvasses peaceful, credible election

A

S the July 14 gubernatorial elec tion in Edo State draws near, a group of concerned indigenes of the state under the aegis of Unuedo Foundation has called on all stakeholders to shun violence and give peace a chance for the overall development of the state and the good of the people.

Speaking to newsmen in Lagos, the president of the Foundation, Chief Lawson Omokhodion said the loud sound of war drums that have been coming out of the state in recent times portends grave danger to the state which it can ill afford.

Omokhodion said as a group and as individuals who have stakes in the state, they could not afford to fold their arms while their state moves closer to the brink of internal crises.

Omokhodion said the group is resolved to make its voice heard and intervene positively in the affairs of the state.

“As a pan-Edo, non-partisan, nonreligious, and non-political organisation comprising professionals of Edo extraction and in various walks of life whose common desire is promotion of the wellbeing of our state and its people, Unuedo is resolved that never again would Edo

By Augustine Avwode

State be left solely in the hands of politicians many of whose stock in trade is the destruction of building blocks of peace, prosperity and security laid by past glorious administrations in the state”.

The group decried the recent waves of attempted murder on political figures in the state and the gruesome murder of Olaitan Oyerinde, an aide to Governor Adam Oshiomhole.

“Unuedo is appalled that at a time Edo State should harness its human and material resources, political murders and assassinations have become commonplace. Indeed Unuedo abhors such dastardly resort to power acquisition and ask that this abominable attitude must stop henceforth.

“Unuedo is disturbed that Olaitan Oyerinde, the principal private secretary to the Edo State Governor could be so casually eliminated in his bedroom. And weeks after the murder, and in spite of the promises by government security agents that the perpetrators of the murder would be brought to book, there is no tangible movement towards uncovering the murder”, the group lamented.

It equally expressed concern about

the rumour that politicians are planning to import terrorists and thugs to the state in the run up to election.

“We call on the security agencies in Edo state to intervene and seriously monitor the Edo politicians whose desperation today knows no bounds.

As ACN is desperate to win a second term mandate for the current Governor, so also is the PDP desperate to reclaim a state they call their own. In the process all kinds of atrocities are being planned, and we must not be caught napping”, Unuedo warned.

It canvassed for a peaceful and brotherly contest since whoever wins would be saddled with the responsibility of developing the state for the good of all.

“The Edo gubernatorial election ought to be a brotherly tango with no victor or vanquished, because at the end of the day we all have a common goal of ensuring the greatest good for the greatest number of residents of the state. The heavy hand of the security agencies will help us to achieve this end”.

Unuedo called on the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Atahiru Jega to ensure that the commission does a through job.

• Second right: President of Unuedo Foundation, Chief Lawson Omokhodion, Mr. Nuhu Yakubu, a Trustee of the foundation (right) makes a point, while Mr. Edwin Ikhinmwin (second left); and Chief Albert Iyorah (left) look on at the press conference in Lagos .

National Assembly and oversight functions •Continued from page 43

man, Johnny Obidinma, informed the House “that the findings of the committee indicated that there was substance in the allegations by ALGON that local government council funds were mismanaged and diverted by the previous government” and that “the accounts of the councils had not been audited for a long time, which left them open for (sic) mismanagement.”

In its report to the House, the committee “recommended that a judicial panel should be set up by the State Government to conduct full-fledged investigations into how the council funds were misapplied.” Upon receiving the report of the committee, the Speaker of the House declared that “it was the duty of the Assembly to ensure accountability and transparency in the use of public funds and directed that the State Government should study the findings of the committee and take the necessary action.” The Punch, February 20, 2008.

The above example shows that the particular Legislature understood that its power under the Constitution was only “to direct or cause to be directed” an investigation by the Executive arm of government into the alleged mismanagement of public funds. Upon receiving the resolution of the House of Assembly, it then became the constitutional duty of the Governor to set up a judicial panel of inquiry into the matter. Such a panel, being judicial or quasi-judicial in nature, has to be given clear terms of reference, stating clearly the various issues to be examined and reported upon. All persons and organisations likely to be affected by any allegations or statements made available to the panel, and all persons who may be affected by the outcome or recommendations of the inquiry must be informed of such allegations and statements in advance of the investigation. This would enable such persons to put their points of view to the panel fairly and effectively. Any departure from this procedure would be a perversion of justice. Most of the time, such perversion of justice has been the outcome of so-called “oversight functions” carried out by legislative arm of government in Nigeria.

In the purported performance of these functions, committees of both the Senate and the House of Representatives constantly summon officials of the Federal Government (who are not ministers) and employees of government parastatals to the National Assembly, reviewing and supervising their routine work. They even go to private companies to carry out “oversight functions” or summon the directors of private companies such as foreign airlines to appear before them. Under the Constitution, the Legislature is only empowered to summon “a minister of the Government of the Federation ... to explain to the House the conduct of his Ministry and in particular when the affairs of that Ministry are under discussion” [Section 4(2)]. The Legislature has no power under the Constitution to summon any official who is not a minister to the House. Apart from the fact that these oversight functions seriously disrupt the work of the officials being visited or summoned to the House, they and the numerous public hearings now in vogue also involve the expenditure of huge amounts of public funds. Besides, in conducting their visitations, the legislators often ignore, as shown above, the basic

requirements of fair hearing.

The performance of “oversight functions” seems to be very popular with the Legislators. There are now no fewer than 84 committees in the House of Representatives while the Senate has at least 57 committees carrying on these investigations. Each committee in either House consists of many members with each Senator or Member of the House of Representatives belonging to several committees at the same time. The legislative work of the National Assembly is adversely affected by these non-legislative functions, resulting in the enactment of poorly drafted legislation. An example is the extremely poorly drafted Electoral Act 2006 [See my article on this topic in The Punch of December 31, 2007 at p61, which the newspaper entitled Why Electoral Reform Committee Must Amend Electoral Act 2006].

Even if legislators do not make the kind of improper demands, or receive improper gratifications, such as those alleged by Ms Oteh (and it is commonly believed that they do), the cost of this approach to governance is prohibitive. The Legislators make sure that the necessary funds for their oversight functions are provided for in the Budget. After a six-month struggle with the National Assembly in the 2000 financial year, the then President Olusegun Obasanjo was able to bring down the National Assembly’s budgetary demand for running its affairs from around N28 billion to N14.9 billion. The Budget was not passed until June that year.

The following year, the National Assembly quietly accepted the same figure of N14.9 billion and passed the budget in January.

Then came the National Assembly’s impeachment process to remove Obasanjo from officess in 2002. He narrowly escaped being removed from office as President. That episode showed who is more powerful under the Nigerian political system: the President or the Legislature?

Thereafter, the budgetary allocation for the National Assembly for running it affairs has sky-rocketed, reaching N116 billion in 2008. The Legislature now has such control over the Executive that it will secure almost any amount of budgetary allocation it demands.

Democratic government in Nigeria is now seriously undermined by the Legislature’s usurpation of both executive and judicial functions. Even if such omnibus powers were to be granted to the legislative arm of government by the Constitution, it would, nonetheless, be highly damaging to the country’s system of government. The damaging effect of the Legislature’s totalitarian approach to governance is made worse by the very high level of corruption prevailing in the country; the political leaders’ rampant manipulation of the process of selecting candidates for elections and the fact that the chairmen and councilors of local government councils are appointed by the Governors in no less than two-thirds of the States of the Federation in flagrant violation of section 7(1) of the Constitution which provides as follows: “(1) the system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is under this Constitution guaranteed; and accordingly, the government of every state shall subject to Section 8 of this Constitution, ensure their existence under a law which provides for the establishment, structure, composition, finance and functions of such councils.”

For as long as the above factors remain unaddressed, and are allowed to continue to work in combination to undermine the Nigerian system of government, political stability and socio-economic development in Nigeria will be difficult to secure or maintain.

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Community seeks renovation of school

R

ESIDENTS of Awka, the Anambra State capital, have called on both the state and federal governments to urgently rehabilitate of the Kenneth Dike Memorial Secondary School.

The school, they said, is the only monument in honour of the late Prof. Kenneth Onwuka Dike, the first Vice-Chancellor of University of Ibadan (UI). He was also reckoned to be the only Nigerian with 13 doctorate degrees in different disciplines.

Awka residents said the school has been neglected by successive governments in the state. They maintained that apart from the onestorey library building erected by Governor Peter Obi which was named Prof. Kenneth Dike Library, no other structure has been built to commemorate him.

The primary school on Obunagu Road in Awka, where Prof. Dike began his early education, has become a shadow of itself, even as the students risk uncertain harm as a result of unfriendly environment. Most of the structures in the school have become dilapidated.

The school is not fenced and the children sit on the floor to learn.

There is no electricity supply to the school, the floors of the so-called classrooms are not floored, heaps of refuse are competing for space

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

with teachers and students.

The school boasts only one classroom block built by the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) under the Obi administration.

Newsextra learnt that the traditional ruler of the town Obi Gibson Nwosu employed security personnel for the school which is located a pole to the house of the late Dike.

A community leader from Obunaga; one of the 13 villages that make up Awka, Chief Christian Chinwuko described the situation as unfortunate.

Chief Chinwuko disclosed that before now, the school was only primary school, even as he added that the state government has converted it to both primary and secondary schools with only four block apartments for both arms of the school.

He regretted that a lot of promises had been made without any fulfilled. One outstanding thing in the school is the construction of a toilet by the UBE. Chief Chinwuko described the situation in the school as total mess.

He said: “In the West, there are a secondary and school and a uni-

Abia flags off programme •Continued from Page 17 Dr Ogar further said that out of 1.5 billion people affected by the diseases worldwide, seven million people die yearly of hypertension, making it the biggest health risk factor the world over.

The commissioner further disclosed that the diseases cause stroke, heart failure and kidney disease, adding that 80 per cent of diabetes patients reside in poor countries.

He stated that half of the state population that suffers from hypertension is ignorant of the fact that they suffer from it.

“About 600,000 people in the state have diabetes. Unfortunately, many of those who suffer from it do not know they have the disease; even those who know are not on regular medication,” he said.

He appealed to the people having the diseases to access this plat-

form provided by the governor and his wife to know their status and receive some free medications when diagnosed.

Earlier, Dr Chima Chukwu of Image Consulting who is partnering with the office of the wife of the governor and Ministry of Health on the programme said that about 10, 000 people are expected to benefit from the programme.

Dr. Chukwu stressed that he had been working with the state government to provide quality healthcare services. He revealed that the programme was focused on hypertension and diabetes patients at present.

He stated that there is improvement in modern medicine in the areas of provision of awareness, prevention and control measures.

He commended the state governor and his wife for their efforts in ensuring quality healthcare provision for the people.

•One of the abandoned blocks versity which are monuments that are used to immortalise the late Tai Solarin who was not more educated than Prof. Dike. The late Dike was in the mould of the first President of Nigeria, the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. That being so, I don’t understand why successive governments should abandon him.”

For Michael Okechukwu, a public commentator who hails from Amawbia told Newsextra that “any time I see what is regarded as Kenneth Dike Memorial Secondary School, I feel terribly bad.”

Continuing, he said: “I feel saddened that a school attended by Prof. Kenneth Onwuka Dike; one of Africa’s academic pillars, is in a

shambles. Yet, Anambra State prides itself as the best in the country.

“The state of the school dedicated to the memory of the foremost educationist is a dishonour to him, even as he added that they would want governor Obi to adopt the place as a model school by putting Dike’s statue in front of it.

“This school needs upgrading.

Dike deserves the best. The state government has to lead the way. It has called on individuals to adopt schools but that is not enough. It has to show greater commitment to rehabilitating and upgrading the school for others to follow.

“Without a better environment for quality teaching and learning,

it may be difficult to raise future intellectuals in the mould of the late Prof. Dike,” Okechukwu said.

Another community leader from Umuogbu Village, Charles Obuekwe told Newsextra that the late Dike was the class teacher of the former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo.

This, according to him, was the reason why the former Governor converted the former Anambra State University of Science and Technology (ASUTECH) to the present Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU).

“We are not blaming anybody, but we want honour to be given to who it is due.

NIPOST rewards six diligent officials

T

HE Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has rewarded six members of staff for their diligence to duty. The recipients of the awards were all from the SouthSouth zone.

Presenting the awards to the workers, the Postmaster-General of the Federation, Ibrahim Baba said the annual merit award was introduced to promote the culture of service of excellence among the NIPOST workforce.

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

Baba stated that the initiative, which was introduced over 10 years ago, was aimed at reversing the falling morale of the average NIPOST staff; especially those of the lower cadres.

Represented by the Assistant Postmaster-General/Public Relations, Mr. Taiye Olaniyi, Baba noted that the annual merit award was also introduced in line with management’s desire to promote the spirit of healthy competition among the different categories of staff.

He said: “Management attaches a lot of importance to these awards because they are also part of its

welfare programmes that would ultimately enhance productivity.”

Mrs. Enukora Patricia received the award of the most outstanding staff from Akwa Ibom Territory; Mr. Momoh Abdulmojeed received the first runner up award for the most outstanding staff from Delta State Territory while the award of the best driver went to Mr. Imbufe Akamaye from Cross River Territory.

Other award recipients were: Mr. Umoren Udosen who received the best postman from Akwa Ibom Territory award; Mr. Uhuegbue Kingsley who received the best counter officer from Delta State Territory award while Mr. Kpurunee Nwigbene received the award of best security man.

Management attaches a lot of importance to these awards because they are also part of its welfare programmes that would ultimately enhance productivity

•From left: Women Wing Leader, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Amuwo-Odofin branch, Mrs Elizabeth Oditah; Supervisor for Market and Revenue Generation, Hajia Fatima Adamu; Mrs Tosin Oloye-Oyewole (facilitator); Council Manager, Mr Segun Ajayi; Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Olajumoke Adesanya and Mrs Hannah Oyebanjo (facilitator) at a programme on positive change organised

by Amuwo Odofin Local Government Women Empowerment group

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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50

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 31-5-12

Dangote assures NASCON’s shareholders of sustained growth •Market loses N33b

T

HE board of National Salt Company of Nigeria (NASCON) Plc has given assurance that it would continue to improve on its performance and make returns to shareholders despite the challenges in the operating environment.

The assurance came just as shareholders yesterday approved distribution of N1.86 billion as cash dividends for the 2011 business year, representing a dividend per share of 70 kobo.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the company in Lagos yesterday, the Chairman, National Salt Company of Nigeria (NASCON) Plc, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, reiterated the commitments of the board and management to continuously improve on returns to shareholders.

He said the company is working round the clock to diversify its revenue base by establishing a seasoning business, vegetable oil refinery and tomato packing operations, assuring that limited production would commence before the end of this year.

“I am happy to say our prospects for 2012 remain excellent and we wish to assure you that our commitment to maintaining our leadership in the salt industry remain the same regardless of the increasing competition within the sub-sector,” Dangote said.

While highlighting some of the challenges faced by the company in the past year, he said the company was able to surmount the hurdles to post a

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

good performance because of the commitment of the board and management.

He said the payment of N1.855 billion, representing 70 kobo for every 50 kobo ordinary share held was in line with the practice of the management to reward shareholders for their unwavering support.

Audited report and accounts of NASCON for the year ended December 31, 2011, showed a turnover of N9.7 billion in 2011 as against N8.89 billion in 2010.

Profit before tax rose from N2.06 billion to N3.11 billion, while profit after tax also jumped from N1.65 billion to N2.15 billion.

Dangote pointed out that the 2011 performance was a reflection of the efforts of the management, board and staff of the company in response to the difficulties experienced in the year, thus leading to a stronger and more profitable business.

He outlined that manufacturing companies in Nigeria still faced several challenges including inadequate energy, poor infrastructure and un-coordinated tax administration amongst others, noting that these have prevented the Nigerian manufacturing sector from reaching its full potential.

Shareholders at the meeting commended the board and management, describing the 70kobo dividend payout per share as a very good motivation especially at this period of gen-

era lull in the capital market.

A shareholder, Alhaji Kabiru Tunde Sarumi, said shareholders were happy with the performance of the company and board’s recommendation of good payout.

He urged the management to step up the diversification plan with the seriousness it deserves, saying the management has proven itself to be capable of delivering results even when the situation is tough.

Meanwhile, the overall market situation at the Nigerian stock market remained on the downside yesterday as key value indices at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) slipped to lower levels.

The All Share Index (ASI), which tracks prices of all quoted equities, dropped by 0.47 per cent from 22,170.96 points to 22,066.40 points. Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities also dropped from N7.070 trillion to N7.037 trillion.

The decline was orchestrated by losses suffered by several highly capitalised stocks with UAC of Nigeria leading the slackers with a loss of N1.69 to close at N33.31. Julius Berger Nigeria followed with a loss of 99 kobo to close at N33.01. Zenith Bank lost 51 kobo to close at N13.99, while Nigerian Breweries and Guaranty Trust Bank dropped by 50 kobo and 40 kobo to close at N106.50 and N15, respectively.

On the upside, PZ Cussons Nigeria topped the gainers’ list with a gain of 80 kobo to close at N23.85. Cement Company of Northern Nigeria chalked up 26 kobo to close at N5.56. International Breweries added 23 kobo to close at N5.84. Stanbic IBTC Bank rose by 20 kobo to close at N6.20, while Ecobank Transnational Incorporated gained 13 kobo to close at N11.39.

Total turnover stood at 328.9 million shares valued at N2.25 billion in 3,664 deals

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 31-5-12

THE N

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

MONEY LINK Access Bank retains ‘Big Tick Award’

‘Why FirstBank retained subsidiaries’

F

IRSTBANK Plc opted to retain some of its subsidiaries under a holding company arrangement to create value for shareholders, the Group Managing Director, Bisi Onasanya, has said.

He explained that selling the subsidiaries out rightly, as some banks have done, would have been detrimental to shareholders’ interests, given that very little would have been realised from such transaction.

Onasanya, who spoke yesterday at the bank’s 43rd Annual General Meeting, in Lagos, said the subsidiaries have great potentials of making good returns, stating that the Board’s decision to run the outfits separately under the holding company arrangement, would be to the benefit of shareholders in the long-run.

He appealed to shareholders not to pre-judge the firms on the basis of current development, saying the board and management took a

By Simeon Ebulu

long-term view of the potentials of the firms in retaining them. He said the downturn in the performances of FBN Capital and FBN Custodian were as a result of the global economic crisis that impacted businesses generally, adding that FBN Life has started doing well.

He expressed optimism that shareholders would receive enhanced dividends next year going by the trend already manifesting in the bank and the subsidiaries.

He said the bank’s Total Assets grew by over N500 billion from N1.962 trillion as at December 31, 2010 to N2.463 trillion a year later.

Also, Loans and Advances stood at N1.o17 trillion and N1.128 trillion as at December 31, 2010 and 2011 respectively.

Onasanya, said the bank garnered over N450billion in deposits in the review period. The bank recorded N1.33 trillion as Deposit liabilities as at December 31, 2010,

By Akinola Ajibade

the figure rose astronomically to N1.783 trillion a year later.

Also, the bank grew its profit after tax from N32.1 billion, hitting N47.462 billion in the review period.

Onasanya said: “ The Group has delivered tremendously improved performance in 2011 visà-vis 2010, and impressive result compared to competition. The size of our balance sheet increased by 32 per cent despite the challenging economic backdrop and lackluster industry circumstances.

As at December 2011, total assets were N2.8 trillion, while total assets and contingencies were over N4.4 trillion.

“We recorded impressive increases in profitability and finished the year strongly, growing profit after tax by 47 per cent yearon-year to N45.7 billion and delivering earnings per share of N1.40.”

He stated that during the year, the bank also recorded very strong

A

•Onasanya

income growth. Gross earnings rose by 28 per cent to N296 billion and net interest income rose by 51 per cent to N183 billion.

He said improvements in net interest income -were sustained due to a combination of account level re-pricing across the entire portfolio, which had a significant impact on asset yields versus 2010 lower cost of funds and the favourable interest rate environment, he added.

EFCC urged to prosecute ex-Afribank’s director, Isah

T

HE Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Lamorde has been urged to prosecute a former Executive Director of Afribank, Jubrin Isah for his alleged role in the case of conspiracy and financial crime for which some other directors of the bank were being tried.

The request was contained in a petition to Lamorde, written on behalf of Gbolahan Peters and Alhaji Ahmed O. Ibrahim of the Forum for Zero Tolerance to Financial Crimes, Abuja by their lawyers, Z. A. Babah and Omolola Awolola. They are from the firm of Kayode Ajulo & co. Castle of

By Eric Ikhilae and Precious Igbonwelundu

Law. The petitioners recalled that Isah was initially indicted and listed as the third accused person in an earlier charge filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos by the EFCC, but his name was suddenly removed as an accused.

They alleged that Isah, who was a former PDP governorship candidate in Kogi State and a leading member of the party, allegedly had his name excluded from a further amended charge by the EFCC under hazy cir-

cumstance.

The petitioners noted that Isah was arraigned with the bank’s then Group Managing Director, Sebastian Adigwe, Chairman, Osa Osunde, Isa Zailani, Chinedu Onyia, Henry Arogundade (other Executive Directors) a stock broker, Peter Ololo and his company, Falcon Securities Ltd, before the Federal High Court, Lagos in a charge marked FHC/L/294/09.

They specifically urged Lamorde “to review the decision of your predecessors, and ensure that the Suspect is brought to book for his liabilities in the financial malpractices and economic crimes.”

They queried the commission’s decision to convert Isah to a prosecution witness despite his indictment for his alleged role in the purported offences for which the other directors were being tried.

“During the suspect’s initial criminal trial at the Federal High Court, Lagos, in 2009, the suspect, though was charged as co-accused was never brought before the court but was busy campaigning to become PDP flag bearer in Kogi State, while your Commission under the leadership of your predecessor, Mrs. Farida Waziri maintained that the suspect is nowhere to be found.

FGN BONDS

DATA BANK

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 150m 150m 138m 138m

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

NIDF NESF

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

GAINERS AS AT 31-5-12 SYMBOL

CCNN FIDSON MAYBAKER GTASSURE INTBREW TRANSCORP AGLEVENT PZ JAPAULOIL IBTC

O/PRICE

5.30 0.83 1.29 1.56 5.61 0.98 1.02 23.05 0.59 6.00

C/PRICE

5.56 0.87 1.35 1.63 5.84 1.02 1.06 23.85 0.61 6.20

113m

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

O/PRICE 4.65 3.45 3.06 3.07 35.00 3.97 1.14 0.74 0.52 0.52

C/PRICE 4.42 3.28 2.91 2.92 33.31 3.78 1.09 0.71 0.50 0.50

CHANGE 0.23 0.17 0.15 0.15 1.69 0.19 0.05 0.03 0.02 0.02

29-2-12 27-2-12

113m

155.7

22-2-12

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Dec ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 12.6%

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

NSE CAP Index

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

Date

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 31-5-12

SYMBOL NASCON VITAFOAM ETERNAOIL REDSTAREX UACN FCMB STERLNBANK DNMEYER COURTVILLE WAPIC

Exchange Rate (N) 155.8 155.8

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

CHANGE

0.26 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.23 0.04 0.04 0.80 0.02 0.20

113m

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES OBB Rate Call Rate

CCESS Bank Plc efforts of combating HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, have earned it the ‘Big Tick’ award for the second time. The bank won the award at the IBTC 2012 Awards for excellence gala dinner in the United Kingdom recently. The ‘Big Tick Award’ is given in recognition of the key roles played by organisations in the communities where they operate. The award underscores the bank’s continuous efforts at promoting the doctrine of responsible business practices through initiatives and programmes that address economic, social and environmental challenges.

Speaking on the award, Chief Executive, Business in the Community, Stephen Howard, congratulated Access Bank Plc on achieving a re-accreditation for combating HIV/ AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria programme.

He said: “There has never been a better time to showcase that business can be a force for good – for mutual benefits of both business and communities in which they operate. Our Awards for Excellence are all about celebrating responsible business, and Access Bank has demonstrated that they can have a positive impact on society and people without losing focus on their business.”

The Bank’s Group Managing Director/CEO, Aigboje AigImoukhuede, said: “We are delighted that our combating HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria programme has been reaccredited by ‘Big Tick’.

This is in recognition of our continued commitment and positive impact on the society. At Access Bank, we believe that to be a better business, it is vital to behave responsibly and adopt a sustainable approach to our business strategy,” he stated.

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE 9.17 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 123.93 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 105.00 THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.75 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.08 BGL NUBIAN FUND 0.89 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,710.94 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 9.42 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 7,690.48 THE DISCOVERY FUND 193.00 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

9.08 1.00 123.81 104.34 0.73 1.08 0.88 1,703.76 8.96 1.33 1.80 7,486.02 191.08 1.62

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous 04 July, 2011

Current 07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

52

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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53

NEWS

Five killed in Ibadan building collapse •Two injured • Govt to raise panel of enquiry

F

IVE persons were killed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday when a building under construction caved in.

Two others were injured.

It was gathered that the building belongs to the New Covenant Church.

The incident occurred about 7:45 pm in Sagbe, opposite the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

It was learnt that the workers at the site were waiting to collect their wages from the foreman when the incident occurred.

It is believed that some people might still be lying under the debris.

The bodies of the deceased, four men and a woman, have been deposited in the morgue of the State Hospital, Adeoyo.

From Bisi Oladele and Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

Those injured were taken to a private hospital at Moniya.

Men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Oyo State Fire Service were at the scene of the incident yesterday morning.

A survivor, Mr. Wole Sokunbi, said: “Thirteen of us were on site when the rain started. We were waiting inside the building to collect our daily allowances from pastor (the foreman) and suddenly heard a scary sound.

Pastor, another women and I ran out and escaped.”

Another eyewitness said: “Immediately the building collapsed we called 199 (the emergency service number),

but it was not responding.

Someone got through to the State Fire Service and they rushed here with water, thinking it was a fire. But what we need was a machine to remove the debris in order to rescue the victims.

“All we could do was use sledge hammers to break the blocks, but it was not working. Later in the night, officials of Akinyele Local Government brought this tractor to bring out the bodies.”

An Assistant Superintendent of the Oyo State Fire Service, Mr. Oladejo Williams, displayed exceptional bravery when he crawled into a narrow opening in the debris to search for survivors.

He returned later to inform his colleagues that a body was trapped in the debris.

Relatives of those trapped in the debris as at press time

wailed uncontrollably, shouting the names of their loved ones and dialing their telephone numbers.

Governor Abiola Ajimobi; his wife, Florence, and Commissioner for Works and Transport Yunus Akintunde were the first government officials to visit the scene.

They got to the scene about midnight on Wednesday.

Ajimobi sympathised with the families of the victims and said he would raise a panel to uncover the cause of the collapse.

The National Overseer of the church, Rev. Olufemi Oyelade, thanked the governor for his concern.

He said the church has set up a committee to investigate the cause of the collapse.

There are speculations that the use of substandard materials by the contractor might be responsible for the collapse.

Ekiti robbery: Police offer N1m for information on hoodlums From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

T

HE Ekiti State Police Command has offered a N1 million reward for anyone who provides information that will lead to the arrest of the robbers that attacked a first generation bank in Ilasa-Ekiti, Ekiti East Local Government Area, last week Thursday.

A 15-man gang attacked the bank, killing four policemen and two residents. Two others were injured and the robbers stole an unspecified amount of money.

In a statement by its spokesman, Mr. Victor Olu Babayemi, the command pledged to protect the informant and keep his/her identity confidential.

The statement reads: “Last Thursday, about 4pm a gang of armed bandits attacked and raided Ilasa-Ekiti Police Station, as well as a bank close to the station. Lives and properties were lost during the attack.

“The command is working hard to apprehend them and is offering a reward of N1 million to any person(s) with useful information that can lead to their arrest.

“Please contact any of the following numbers: 08023705471, 08126281782. Be assured that any information provided will be treated with utmost confidentiality.”

ACN gets new members

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EMBERS of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP) and All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) in Akoko West Local Government Area of Ondo State yesterday joined the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

The defectors said it is high time the state moved away from the politics of deceit.

They were led by Mr. Olu Akande, Mr. Joel Olorundare, Mr. Jackson Adewunmi and Mr. Oluponna Omope.

Akande, a former PDP member, said they were attracted to ACN by the activities of the Omoluabi platform in the 203 wards and the contributions of Dr. Olu Agunloye, a governorship aspirant, to the development

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

of Akokoland and the state.

Agunloye is a former minister and former chief executive officer of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).

Adewunmi, a former PDP Financial Secretary in the council, urged the defectors to return to their wards and work assiduously for the party’s success in the governorship election.

Olorundare and Omope said they would support whoever emerges the party’s candidate.

ACN Chairman in the council Mr. Dayo Bello praised the new members for summoning the courage to join the party at a time when members of the opposition were being molested.

Slain ACN chieftain’s son seeks justice

By Kunle Akinrinade

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•The collapsed building...yesterday

PHOTO:NAN

ACN: Verdict against Rep won’t stand HE Ondo State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) yesterday criticised the judgment of the Federal High Court, sitting in Akure, which declared the seat of the House of Representatives member representing Akure North/ South Federal Constituency, Mr. Ifedayo Abegunde, vacant.

The party described the verdict as “a rude shock”.

Abegunde was elected on the platform of the Labour Party (LP) April, last year.

He defected to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) on February 1 and hinged his decision on the alleged intraparty crisis rocking the LP. LP moved to recall him from the National Assembly and the lawmaker went to the court to prevent his recall.

On Wednesday, Justice Grace Okeke said Abegunde could not prove that the LP was factionalised and declared his seat vacant.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Agbede, ACN said the judgment negates Abegunde’s right to belong to a party of his choice where his interests are best protected as stated in Section 40 of the Constitution.

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From Damisi Ojo, Akure

ACN said: “While we agree that only political parties can sponsor candidates for elections in Nigeria, the plaintiff satisfied the provisions of Section 68 (1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution, which gave him the right to resign from a factionalised party like the LP. “It is ironic that the same court, which for over five months refused to list for hearing cases involving the factionalisation in the LP, has

speedily delivered a muchcriticised ruling in a case premised on the same subject matter.

“While we are not bothered by the judgment because we know the matters will definitely outlive the Governor Olusegun Mimiko administration, we are much concerned about the suspicious way and manner in which the case was handled.”

The party urged Abegunde to appeal the judgment and

pledged its support for him support.

It said: “While we hold the courts in high esteem, we believe this case will be a test for the judiciary and therefore deserves all attention.

“We implore our members and supporters to remain calm while the judgment undergoes judicial scrutiny in higher courts. We know the pronouncement of the Federal High court will not stand on appeal.”

HE police have been urged to find the killers of a former chieftain of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Osun State, Alhaji Hassan Olajoku. He was killed on May 15, 2005, by gunmen at Gbongan Junction, Osun State.

The deceased’s son, Folawiyo, spoke with The Nation seven years after his father’s death.

The Economics graduate of Igbinedion University, Benin, Edo State, said: “It is a shame that the police are yet to apprehend my father’s killers seven years after he was gruesomely murdered.

“I do not think we have a police force that can effectively combat crime in this country. I challenge them to revisit my father’s case and fish out his killers to prove me wrong. Finding his killers is the only way to ensure that justice is done.”

Thanking the Osun and Lagos state governments for their support, Folawiyo said: “We thank the Osun and Lagos state governments for their support. We also thank the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration for building a park in memory of my father at the spot where he was killed.

“Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also been of immeasurable assistance and support to our family and we will forever cherish him.

“The family would soon launch his biography and, God willing, the Alabi Hassan Olajoku School of Management and Financial Studies would soon be established.”

Power must shift hands in Ondo, says aspirant

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GOVERNORSHIP aspirant of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State, Dr. Segun Abraham, has said power must shift from the ruling Labour Party (LP) to ACN. He said Ondo people desire a transformational and progressive government.

Abraham spoke in Akokoland while seeking the people’s support for his aspiration.

He said: “People’s lives have become tainted by poverty, unemployment and the general insufficiency resulting from mismanagement of

By Emmanuel Oladesu, Deputy Political Editor

resources, lack of industries, administrative inefficiency and exponential corruption, to mention a few.

“It is against this background that l am offering myself to my people. My mission is to restore the glory of the state, and with your support and prayers, I believe it is achievable.

“My aspiration is to provide good governance by managing the state’s resources efficiently and effectively, and ensuring equitable distribution of resources.

“I plan to set up small and

medium scale industries; revamp moribund companies; empower youths and women; create jobs; build roads and houses; develop infrastructure; provide qualitative health care services, potable water, an efficient transport system and qualitative education at all levels; and ensure security.

“Leaders of my party and Yoruba opinion leaders have resolved that only a true social, economic and political integration of the constituent states can bring back the lost glory of Yoruba land and Ondo State cannot afford to be left out.

“The Governor Olusegun Mimiko administration inherited N38.0 billion from Dr. Olusegun Agagu’s administration.

“The Mimiko administration has collected over N400 billion as Federal Allocation, Internally Generated revenue (IGR) and oil derivation since its inception, but there is no value for it in terms of human capital development and infrastructure.

“Lack of employment has turned graduates to commercial motorcyclists.

“The state government has accumulated debts of over N50 billion and mortgaged

the state’s future. It has no justification to incur debts in view of the revenue it has been collecting from February 23, 2009.

“Corruption is the daily routine of the present administration, as evidenced by the frequent arrest of key members of the Executive Council by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

“No single road has been completed since Mimiko assumed office. All we can see is the demolition of buildings aimed at compelling the people to vote for him in the next election.”

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NEWS

Police, family bicker over teen’s death

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HERE is controversy over the death of an 18year-old girl, identified as Habiba Musa.

Miss Musa was allegedly shot by a policeman last Sunday at a road block on AfuzeAuchi Road.

The rider of the motorcycle on which she was riding allegedly refused to “settle” some policemen.

But the police insisted that she died in an accident involving the motorcycle and a yet-to-be identified vehicle.

An autopsy report from the Central Hospital, Auchi, showed that Miss Musa died

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

from a deep hole in the skull, which showed inlet and outlet of gunshot fired at close range.

Her father, Momodu Musa, told reporters that he went to the police station where he met his daughter’s body inside a vehicle parked in the premises.

He said he was told by the police that the motorcyclist, whose name was given as Dirisu, came to report that his passenger (Habiba) died on the way while in transit.

But the motorcyclist said his passenger was shot when he

refused to “comply”.

Momodu said: “I demanded to see the motorcyclist and he told me that while he was coming, some policemen stopped him and demanded for “kola” and he told them he did not have anything but that as he was just moving, the police fired at them and my daughter died instantly.”

The Police Area Commander, Edo North, Mr. Haruna Gabriel, said investigation showed it was an accident that led to the girl’s death.

Gabriel said Miss Musa was not shot as claimed by the

autopsy report.

His words: “Emerging facts showed that officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) were seen earlier at the scene, which led us to believe that the motorcyclist and his passenger might have been shot by fleeing drug barons.”

He accused the doctor of causing the confusion surrounding the incident, “Broken glasses were at the scene while parts of the motorcycle were damaged proving that it was an accident.

“There was no bullet wound on the deceased,” Gabriel said.

•Niger State Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu cutting the tape to inaugurate tractors and implements in Minna...yesterday.

With him are the Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora Alhaji Sa’idu Namaska (left), Assembly Speaker Adamu Usman and Commissioner for Agriculture Mohammed Kwotu Abdullahi

Protesters block Eket-Ibeno road

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OLLOWING the sacking of over 1,000 junior workers by Mobil Producing Nigeria at the Qua Iboe Terminal, the aggrieved workers yesterday blocked the access road to the oil facility in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State .

Three workers, including Public Affairs Manager Akaninyene Esiere, were attacked by the protesters.

According to an eyewitness, one of the rescued workers was rushed to an undisclosed hospital for treatment.

A Divisional Police Officer (DPO), whose name could

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

not be ascertained, reportedly rescued the workers.

The disengaged workers were said to have turned back several bus loads of workers and their security details who were on their way to work.

Several appeals by security agents to open the road were ignored by the protesters.

The entrance to the Terminal remained locked while the workers remained at the facility as at 2pm.

Governor Godswill Akpabio advised youths to desist from blocking roads during his visit

on Monday to commission office blocks in Ibeno.

Akpabio urged Mobil to be alive to its responsibilities, saying its operation is responsible for the high revenue profile of the state.

But a statement from Mobil’s Communication Manager, Nigel Cookey-Gam, said:“Mobil confirms that a group of third party personnel staged a protest today on the road leading to its Qua Iboe Terminal.

“There was no disruption to operations.

“Inquiries related to the grievances should be directed to their respective employers.”

Media head for Amnesty Office A new Head of Media and Communications for the Presidential Amnesty Office has been named.

Daniel Alabra, a Deputy Editor in The Sun, replaces Henry Ugbolue who is now a Special Assistant on Special Duties.

A statement by Ugbolue said: “The appointment was in response to the challenges of the rapidly expanding reintegration component of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

“Alabrah is a hard working, committed and self-motivated reporter, who works with little or no supervision.

Church to feed 100,000 at Lagos conference

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O fewer than 100,000 people will receive free meals on Sunday at the Excel 2012 conference of the Apapa family of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

The theme of the conference aimed at youth empowerment, which holds at the Tafawa Balewa Square

By Sunday Oguntola

(TBS) Lagos, is change catalyst.

Head of Apapa family, Pastor David Iluyomade, said this year’s edition is targeted at youth because they have been marginalised and silenced in the nation.

Nigerian youths, he lamented, have been de-

ceived into believing the future belongs to them. ‘’Youths are not the leaders of tomorrow but the leaders of today. The future is not when they grow up but when they show up, which is now,’’ he stressed.

He disclosed that an academy to nurture and mentor youths will be inau-

gurated at the event.

Tagged Excel youth academy, Iluyomade said the centre will be accessible to youths determined to become persons of substance in any field of endeavour.

Iluyomade urged youths to take over. He said God is counting on them to ‘’take Nigeria to the next level’’.

Verdict in Akwa-Ibom governorship dispute today

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HE Supreme Court will deliver judgment today in an appeal by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship candidate in Akwa-Ibom State,James Akpanudoedehe.

Justice Maryam AlomaMukhtar, who noted that the appeal will expire today, said: “We will adjourn till tomorrow hoping a full panel will be constituted.

“The matter will be heard and decided one way or the other, while reasons for the judgment will be given later.”

The five-member panel arrived at the decision after agreeing that a seven-mem-

•June 4 for hearing in Benue case From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

ber panel of the apex court is required to hear the appeal, considering its “constitutional” nature.

Akpanudeodehe is challenging the decision of the Court of Appeal, which affirmed the verdict of the Election Petition Tribunal that dismissed his petition because it was not heard within 180 days as stipulated in Section 285 (6) of the constitution.

The court also fixed Monday for hearing of the appeal

by the ACN governorship candidate in Benue State, Prof Steve Ugba.

The Supreme Court, last November, ordered that the two petitions be heard on merit.

But the two lower courts declined to hear the appeals, citing the apex court decision in the Borno case.

Dissatisfied, the appellants approached the Supreme Court for a redress.

Although hearing was fixed for yesterday, the two appeals could not proceed due to request by Ugba’s counsel, Oluwarotimi

Akeredolu (SAN) that a seven-member panel is required to hear the matter.

Akeredolu led rights activist Femi Falana in the case.

The same position was canvassed in the Akwa-Ibom case by Kola Awodehin (SAN), who led Prof. Yemi Osibajo (SAN) and Dapo Akinosun.

Akpanudoedehe is asking the apex court to overrule itself on its decision in the Borno governorship election appeal where it dismissed the petition of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Mohammed Goni because it was not heard within 180 days.

Senate adopts self-immortalisation report

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HE Senate yesterday adopted the report of its ad-hoc Committee on Immortalisation of Past and Serving Senators.

The report, which recommends the immortalisation of deserving former and serving senators, also recommends the restoration of the past glory of the old Parliament Buildings at Tafawa Belewa Squarte, Lagos.

It noted that the old building in Lagos was the Federal Legislative seat of government in the country since colonial period until the nation’s federal capital was relocated to Abuja in 1991.

The report said the buildings at the old National Assembly Complex in Lagos should be categorised as “historical monuments that should not be allowed to lose their legislative and historical importance”.

“Many historical and political events took place in the Complex. For these reasons, the buildings in the Complex should be showcased to the world as the pride of Nigeria’s historical past, and made a national monument.

“For instance, the motions for self government and independence of Nigeria were moved and adopted on the floor of the Chamber in the National Hall,” the report says.

The lawmakers adopted the recommendation that the Senate should take all necessary legal and administrative measures to ensure that the management of the Old National Assembly Complex in Lagos is returned to the National Assembly from the Presidency.

The recommendation that the Complex should be turned into a tourist monument by the leadership of the National Assembly was also accepted.

The lawmakers adopted that Old Senate President’s Office and Old Deputy Senate President’s Office be named after past and present Presiding officers of the Senate.

“In considering whom these offices should be named after, their historical

E

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

legislative roles should be considered,” the lawmakers said.

They accepted that the four Public Hearing Rooms at the White House be named after former Senate Presidents while the Senate New Wing be appropriately named after a Presiding Officer.

The lawmakers adopted the recommendation that some Committee Rooms be named after “Distinguished Senators that were continuously elected for three or four terms, for their long years of meritorious service to the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 1999 to date or Senators worthy for other consideration.”

Some Senators however cautioned that merely being elected three or four times may not be enough criterion as some Senators may remain dormant and bench warmers throughout their stay in the Chamber.

The recommendation that Committee Room 17 be named after late Senator Martins Yellowe for his outstanding contributions towards law making in the National Assembly as evident from the number of Bills (47 Bills) in his name was turned down.

The Senators said that the ad-hoc committee should be left to decide whether Yellowe should be honoured.

The report said that Yellowe who was in the Senate for eight years “has had the highest number of private member Bills so far in the Senate (47 Bills).

The recommendation that some Committee Rooms should be named after Senators who died in active service, was adopted.

Also the recommendation that “Senators are recommended for a well deserved honour through installation of digital documentary display screen tagged “Roll of Honour” to be placed at strategic location within the Senate Wing of the National Assembly, was accepted.

‘Avoid acts of lawlessness’

DO people have been urged to await the outcome of the court process on the status of the transition government in the 18 local governments.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Louis Odion, the government advised the people to “wait for the outcome of the court process and desist from taking laws into their hands”.

“In view of the seeming premeditated acts of lawless-

ness by some thugs and hirelings of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who besieged many local government headquarters on Wednesday, it is important to make this clarification.

“The Edo State Government has filed a Motion of Appeal at the Court of Appeal, Benin City.

“A motion for an order suspending the earlier order of May 16 has also been filed, pending the decision on the appeal.”

Oshiomhole now Peace Ambassador

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DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has been conferred with the award of National Ambassador of Peace in Nigeria.

The chairman of the National Council for Peace and Unity, Abba Gana, said the award was in recognition of the governor’s antecedent as a tested and trusted leader.

He said: “With this award, we expect you to bring peace and unity to all Nigerians.

Gana, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, said Nigerians look up to the governor as a national leader.

“We expect you to come and tell Nigerians why they should embrace peace. Without sustainable peace, unity and security, all other things for which government exist cannot be achieved.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

NEWS Student’s body found From Chris Oji, Enugu

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HE body of a 300-level student of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Onyebuchi Okonkwo, was yesterday found hanging from the ceiling of an uncompleted building at the Cricket pitch of one of the school’s hostels.

No suicide note was found around the body.

It was learnt that the deceased was studying under Shell and MTN scholarships.

Confirming the incident, the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof.

Chukwuemeka Oyeoku, described the incident as “fortunate and shocking”.

Breach of contract: Court orders Fed Govt, Army to pay firm N148.2m

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USTICE F.A. Ojo of a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, sitting in Maitama, Abuja, has ordered the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army (NA) to pay Esquire Ventures Limited N148,280,000.

The money is owed the company for the supply of military items to Nigeria’s United Nation (UN) troop to Sudan which they refused to pay despite repeated demand.

The trial judge awarded N50 million as damages against the defendants for breach of contract and losses the contractor suffered following the non-payment of the money.

Justice Ojo agreed with the submission of the plaintiff that the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army, having received the goods and utilised them, could not refuse payment for noncompliance with due process.

The court held that “compliance with due process was an obligation on the defendants and not on the plaintiff”.

The judge held that to deny the plaintiff payment for services already rendered would amount to the defendants benefiting from their own wrongful act.

Justice Ojo cited a Supreme Court case between

By Adebisi Onanuga

Awojugbagbe Light Industries Limited and Atinuke (1995), where it was decided that “it is morally wrong for a person who has benefited from an agreement to turn round and say that the agreement is null and void”.

The Supreme Court had, in the matter, held that “the applicable equitable principle of law, being that a person cannot benefit from his own wrong. In its adjudicatory functions, the court has a duty to prevent injustice in any given circumstance and avoid rendering a decision which enables a party to escape from his obligation under a contract by his own wrongful act or otherwise profit by his own wrongful act”.

The plaintiff had, in December 2009, approached the court, seeking, among other reliefs, the payment of N148million for the items supplied to the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army.

The company also applied for N300 million claims for failure of the defendants to honour the contractual obligations between them.

Before seeking the intervention of the court, the plaintiff had made several demands for payment of the supplied goods and even requested for arbitration, all of which were turned down.

Obasanjo, Buhari urge Nigerians tackle nation’s problems From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

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WO former Heads of State, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Gen. Muhammad Buhari, yesterday urged Nigerians to put national interest above all other considera-

tions.

They spoke in Abuja at the public presentation of a biography, entitled: A Life of Sacrifice, written by Mr Abdulrahman Sade in honour of a medical scientist and Emeritus Professor Umaru Shehu.

They urged Nigerians to concentrate on how to get the country out of the woods.

Recalling some of the national sacrifices Prof Shehu has made, Obasanjo said: “His contributions included the dousing of rumours that polio vaccines were meant to cause impotency among men.”

Gen. Buhari, who was the presidential candidate of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in last year’s election, advised Nigerians to live a life of integrity and stand for their rights.

He described Prof Shehu as an example of how every Nigerian must behave, if the country will return to the path of growth.

A former Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Prof Anya O. Anya, and former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Alhaji Maitama Sule, noted that for Nigeria to emerge unscathed from the current challenges, it needs to have a cultural revolution and end blind leadership.

Anya, who delivered the keynote address, highlighted some factors that have impeded the nation’s economic and political development.

According to him, the real challenges facing Nigeria include insecurity, corruption, bad leadership, poverty and growing unemployment.

He accused the political class of “merely pretending and deceiving the populace”.

Prof Anya noted that the pretence has held down the country.

The renowned economist advocated a cultural and values orientation, saying these would remedy the current challenges.

“The focus on wealth accumulation by Nigerians, especially youths, remains the cause of the Nigeria’s problems,” he said.

Dignitaries at the event included former Head of State, Chief Ernest Shonekan; Kogi State Governor Idris Wada; his Borno State counterpart, Kashim Shettima; and Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu.

Man held for ‘cloning Elechi’s A phone number’ MAN has been arrested for allegedly cloning the phone number of Ebonyi State Governor Martin Elechi and using it to defraud top government officials in the state.

The suspect, Ebube Mbonu was seized by operatives of the State Security Service (SSS).

Parading the suspects at the command headquarters in Abakaliki, the state capital, Assistant Director, Operations and Intelligence, D.M. Ihejirika said the suspect sent text messages to 10 government officials with the cloned phone number.

Mbonu allegedly told them to pay N300,000 into his bank account and warned them to keep it confidential.

One of the messages reads: “Please contact Mr. Promise on 080****** and make N300,000 available in the morning because he is on a

From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

special assignment for me.

Keep confidential. Thank you.”

Another reads: “From the governor, a staff of mine shall call you this morning. Thank you.”

Ihejirika said the messages were sent out a few days to the recent visit of the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, to the state and that made the recipients unsuspicious.

He said the SSS got wind of the alleged fraud and seized Mbonu.

Ihejirika said nine SIM cards were recovered from the suspect.

But Mbonu denied sending the text messages and said he

‘He said he got a call from his friend, simply identified as Chinedu, asking him to come to his (Chinedu’s) house and was arrested there’ was being set up. He said he got a call from his friend, simply identified as Chinedu, asking him to come to his (Chinedu’s) house and was arrested there.

Mbonu said: “Some days before that, I got a text message from the governor’s number that a staff of his will contact me. A few minutes later, some people started call-

ing me on the phone asking me to send them my account number that they have been directed to send me some money. I suspect that I might have been set up. The security operatives are investigating the case and I am hopeful they will get to the root of it.”

On how he knew the message he got was from the governor, Mbonu said he has the governor’s number because he worked for him during the elections.

Also yesterday, a five-man gang that specialises in stealing telecommunications cables was apprehended by SSS operatives.

Ihejirika said they were seized at the NITEL headquarters in Abakaliki after midnight, while trying to steal the cables.

The suspects are Ekene Medulu (22), Chinedu Akaba, Chidozie Ekoh (30), Jude Anaba (25) and Peter Zira.

•From left: Governors Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) and Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN. during the Sounthwest Governors meeting with the President at the State House, Abuja...yesterday.

It’s surprising I’m alive, says Sheila Solarin, 88

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IDOW of the late social critic, Dr. Tai Solarin, Sheila, is shocked to be alive at 88.

The co-founder of Mayflower school, Ikenne, spoke against the backdrop of her busy life, spawning three decades in the country.

Mrs. Solarin, born in England on May 31, 1924, to the Tuer family has devoted her life to educating people across the country.

“It is Surprising I’m Alive,” says the 88-year-old.

She said: “It is a surprise to me that I’m still alive.

Honestly, I did not expect to live long. I have had a busy life here. There is plenty of work to do in the area of education.”

Mrs. Solarin was described by her students - both old and young - as an “enigma”.

She teaches English Language and still marks students’ essays and letter writings at the Mayflower School she co-founded in the 50s.

She said her greatest wish is to see many Nigerians of school age educated, but said it may be difficult to accomplish in a short time because of the growing culture of corruption, laziness and indiscipline in the country.

“Over 10 million Nigerians of school age are not

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

school. Many children never had a chance to be educated.

Governments and individuals have a lot of work to do in that direction. If you don’t educate them, you are looking for trouble,” Mrs Solarin said.

When The Nation visited the modest home she has been living since the demise of her husband 18 years ago yesterday recalled, old and present students of Mayflower thronged there to celebrate a woman they all described as an “Icon,” “humanist” and “teacher of teachers.”

Dr Wale Omole, a 1978 product of the school and Chairman of Tai and Sheila Hospital, Lagos who attributed his career in Medicine to Sheila and her husband, recalled how the duo offered him admission to the school when most schools approached in Southwest rejected him because of overage.

Omole, who delivered a speech entitled: “Madame Sheila Solarin is 88 said the octogenerian left the comfort of her country, England, for Nigeria because of her love for humanity.

“What we are celebrating today is happiness. The hap-

piness of a successful young English woman, who in 1954, decided to go on an adventure to a blackman’s continent where illiteracy ruled and superstition reigned, leaving behind all the comforts of life in England, Mrs Sheila Solarin came to Nigeria with an armour of light to educate Nigerians.

She succeeded,” Omole said.

He reckoned that the Octogenarian had to her credit, many eminent Nigerians whose education were sponsored by Mamah besides 34 students who are currently on her sponsorship.

He said:”There is no better way to serve humanity.

Ladies and gentlemen, Nigeria has taken the best out of her. Africa has taken the best out of this mother and teacher of teachers.

“We can recall her great performance last year on the

•Mrs Solarin

hot seat of ‘who wants to be a millionaire,’ a television program where she effortlessly grabbed N2million.

She has used the money to establish a modern laboratory for the students. She spent no kobo of that money for herself.”

Crusade begins today

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HE Lasthour Ministries International (non-denominational) will today begin a three-day crusade.

The programme, entitled: Conquering Power of God, will hold between 4pm and 8pm every day at Faith Plaza, Christ Anglican

By Amidu Arije

Church, 10, Okuta Road, behind CMS Bus Stop, Bariga, Lagos.

A statement yesterday said Rev Dennis N. U. Odizia will deliver a sermon on the theme: Entering Into Your Wealthy Place.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION COMMITTEES ON THE NEEDS’ ASSESSMENT OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COLLEGES IN THE SIX GEO-POLITICAL ZONES The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Chief (Barr.) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike cordially invites all members of the Committees on the Needs’ Assessment of the Federal Government Colleges in the Six Geo-Political Zones for inauguration as scheduled below: Date: Time: Venue:

th

Monday, 4 June, 2012 8.30a.m.

Main Conference Hall, 2nd Floor Podium, F.M.E., Abuja

The following are the members of the Committees: A: SOUTH-SOUTH ZONE 1. Mohammed Sani Zango Chairman 2. Kutara, E.G. (Dr.) Member 3. Sifawa, A.S. Member 4. Omotowa, E.B. (Mrs.) Member 5. Olugbodi, F.A. Member 6. Richard Ehie Member 7. Mohammed Bafa Yola Member 8. Bright Wagbara Member 9. Nashiru H. Said Member 10. Prince Ray Chijioke Member 11. Suwaiba S. Ahmed Member 12. Grace Boyle Member 13. Frank Ibezim Member 14. Dr. Uche Ben Member 15. Abdu T.H. (Mrs.) - Secretary B: SOUTH-WEST ZONE 1. Dr. O.V.C. Okene 2. Ozumba, I. Mabel (Mrs.) 3. Basharu A. 4. Baimayi, A. (Mrs.) 5. Okonkwo, A. O. (Mrs.) 6. Adaba S. O. (Mrs.) 7. Abubakar, Garba Musa 8. Dr. Samuel Kalagbor 9. Prince Collins Amadi 10. Hajia Asabe Kagara 11. Mrs. Hellen Okas Wike 12. Abdullahi Iman 13. Hon Chike Woluchor 14. Solomon Nwangwa 15. Balarabe Yazid 16. Madueke A.O. (Mrs.)

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Chairman Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Secretary

C: NORTH CENTRAL ZONE 1. Walter Ibibia 2. Engr. M.K. Ofor 3. Hindatu Abdullahi 4. Awofisayo, O.O. (Mrs.) 5. Aguyi, J.C. 6. Mohammed Shuaibu 7. Barrister Chigozie Orlunda 8. Mr. Owhonka Aleruchi 9. Dr. Mrs. Blessing Awortu 10. Chief Godspower Ihunwo 11. Clement Onwuchekwa 12. Barr. A.I Agbai 13. James Duru

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Chairman Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member

14. Edwin Ojukwu 15. Eboreme (Mrs.) 16. Nwokeforo, J.I.U. (Mrs.)

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Member Member Secretary

D: NORTH-EAST ZONE 1. Barr. Ben Eke 2. Yakasai, S.I. 3. Jamila Shuara (Dr.) 4. Jatau J. Baba 5. Itodo E.E. 6. Hassan Sani Kafinga 7. Mr. Innocent Akaniwo 8. Dr. Chigonum Chukwu 9. C.B.C. Uchendu 10. Mr. Chinedu Atuzie 11. Sunny Ovunda 12. Major Jack 13. Hon. Uche Ogwutumi 14. Mr. Luke Kwagga 15. Okoye (Dr.)

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Chairman Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Secretary

E: NORTH-WEST ZONE 1. Ralph Onwuchekwa 2. Musa A. Hassan 3. Lami Amodu (Dr./Mrs.) 4. Diggi A.U. (Alh.) 5. Onwubuya, S.I.(Mrs.) 6. Ahmed Adamu Kagara 7. Chidi Nwatu 8. Ralph Nwanodi 9. Echem Blessing N. 10. Elder Godwin Chukwu 11. Sunny Wodi 12. Ernest Chukwu 13. Mr. Francis Jacob 14. Engr. E. Egbagbe 15. Ameh Julius

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Chairman Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Secretary

F: SOUTH-EAST ZONE 1. Barr. Cliff Oparaodu 2. Lawal, K. M. (Mrs.) 3. Momodu P. E. 4. Oji I. K. 5. Onuoha, S.O. (Mrs.) 6. Ogbobilea, L.K. (Mrs.) 7. Aderibigbe, F.A (Mrs.) 8. Aliyu Salihu Darma 9. Obinna Ayanwu 10. Isah Nuhu Sheshe 11. Hajia Dije Jibo 12. Saude Aliyu 13. Godwin Amanyi 14. Ogoh Francis 15. A.O. Odejinmi

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Chairman Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Secretary

Ben. D. Ibe Ph.D Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

NEWS Amaechi signs five bills into law

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•Amaechi...yesterday

IVERS State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has signed into law five bills brought for his assent by the House of Assembly.

He signed the bills yesterday at the Government House Council Chambers, Port Harcourt.

The bills are the State Universal Basic Education Amendment Bill, the State Senior Secondary Schools’ Board Bill, the Governor and Deputy Governor Pensions and Fringe Benefits Bill 2012, the House of Assembly Service Commission Amendment Bill and the State Water Sector Development Law .

Ekiti association holds election

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FON Development League, Lagos branch, will hold its election on Sunday at the EfonAlaaye House, Somolu, Lagos at 3pm. A statement by he association said the PresidentGeneral of the League, Chief Patrick Ojo, will lead a delegation of the National Executive Committee to the venue.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

NEWS Christians urged to be change agents

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HRISTIANS have been urged to shun corruption and make themselves agents of positive change.

A cleric, Rt. Rev. Oladapo Babalola, the Bishop of Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Methodist Church Nigeria, gave the advice as a guest speaker on the topic: “The Burden of Being a Christian in the Modern Day Nigeria”. It was at the 70th Platinum Anniversary of the

PUBLIC NOTICE I, MR. Felix Obioma N. a native of Isiala Umuduru Nsu in Ehime Mbano LGA, Imo State, the head of Family and Father of OBIOMA FABIAN ONYINYECHI who formerly known and addressed as NWADIBIA Fabian Onyinyechi.

All former documents remain valid. UNIPORT and general public please take note.

Men Christian Union (MCU) of the Williams’ Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Ago Ijaiye, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

The cleric, who noted that Christians in Nigeria are living in a polluted environment, enjoined them not to lose sight of their responsibilities to live a Christ-like life and ensure that they pursue excellence at all time in the midst of the decadence ravaging the society.

Stressing that Christians are meant to live as the light and salt of the earth, Babalola said it is lamentable that some Christians today are a disgrace to the Christendom judging by their attitude to neighbours.

He condemned a situation where ministers of the gospel who are supposed to give Christ-like leadership have turned themselves into demigods expecting their followers to worship and adore them rather than worship the Almighty God. Babalola called on Christians to join the political train to effect the change needed in the society, rather than abandoning the space to rogues and vagabonds who have nothing good to offer Nigerians.

Niger ACN, CPC plot PDP’s fall in 2015

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HE Niger State chapters of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) are set to join forces against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.

Niger State ACN chairman Captain Abubakar Isah Mokwa told reporters yesterday in Minna that the merger was necessary because the nation’s woes could only be addressed with changes in the political system.

He said opposition parties in the state are planning ahead of the 2015 general

elections to form a formidable front to tackle political challenges.

“The merger between ACN and CPC can be seen as such, as the two parties can be regarded as the most visible opposition parties in the state,” he added.

Mokwa said the merger was the only way the needed change in the state could be achieved.

According to him, “though 2015 is still far, the ACN has decided to plan ahead so that

it will not be caught unawares like in 2011 when the party hurriedly prepared for the election and entered into a working arrangement two days to the poll. We are ready for the merger, if the talks between the leadership of the two parties are successful.”

Mokwa said before the merger talks, ACN and CPC had a cordial working relationship which was to develop the state, adding that “such understanding is the only way to save Niger State from the clutches of the ruling PDP.” He said: “You can see that

because we are not happy with what is happening in Niger State, we have called a meeting of stakeholders from the 25 local government areas of the state to discuss the way forward. We cannot keep quiet and watch things go bad.”

The ACN chieftain said the party is also consulting with other credible parties and there have been favourable responses from them, adding that there will be a change of power in 2015 because of the formidable front the political parties will present.

Fed Govt, Niger move to build another hydro electric dam

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HE Federal Government, Niger State Government and investors are working out modalities on how to build another hydro electric dam in Gurara Local Government Area of the state, in order to improve electricity supply in the country.

Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu made this known at the inauguration of an electrification project and the road leading to Gurara Falls.

He said the land for the

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From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

project has been acquired and the technical details to ensure early commencement of the job are being worked out. As soon as the technicalities are sorted out, the construction of the hydro dam project will begin, Aliyu said.

The state already has three hydro electric dams located in Jebba, Kainji and Shiroro.

The Gurara dam, when built, will be the fourth.

Aliyu said the electricity project would improve pow-

•Aliyu

er supply to the state and other parts of the country, thereby attracting investors. He added that plans to turn the Gurara Falls into a tourist

centre have started yielding results.

According to him, some investors have indicated interest in the construction of a convention building and hotel of international standard near the Gurara Falls.

“A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the government and the investors will soon be signed.”

The governor hailed the communities that provided land for the proposed projects, assuring them that everything would be done to ensure they benefited from their contributions towards making the state a tourist centre.

Post-election violence: 45 offenders arraigned in Kaduna

ORTY-five persons arrested in connection with last year’s post presidential election violence in Kaduna State have been charged to court for various offences, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Jonathan Kish Adamu, has said.

Addressing reporters as part of the activities to mark the Yakowa administration’s first year anniversary, the commissioner said the 45 people were part of the 380 arrested by the police over the

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From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

crisis, adding that the police were still investigating other people arrested during the period.

He said the ministry has issued legal advice on six of the 10 cases presented to it by the police regarding the crisis, and that the commission of inquiry set up by the government to investigate the crisis has recommended that those

indicted be further investigated and prosecuted.

According to him, the White Paper on the report has been sent to the police who are currently carrying out investigations.

“We expect that as soon as they complete this exercise, they will forward their report to us for advice and prosecution where necessary.”

Adamu noted that the police are also investigating se-

ries of attacks carried out by unknown persons in some rural communities across the state, adding that three people have been arrested in connection with the attack and killing of two women at Tabak in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of the state.

The commissioner said the House of Assembly is reworking the laws establishing the State Independent Electoral Commission to make it compliant with the Electoral Act.

CPC slams ex-governorship candidate for returning to PDP

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OR the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Taraba State, the sudden defection of its former governorship candidate, Ahmed Yusuf, to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is good riddance to bad rubbish in the state, the party has said.

The party also refuted claims by Yusuf that he left the CPC with all the officials to the PDP. The party state chair, Alhaji Uba Ahmed, said: “There is no reason to panic. The CPC in Taraba remains stronger, more cohesive and more vibrant.

“Yusuf is on his own solo voyage to the PDP to seek greener pasture.” Ahmed spoke at a press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre, Jalingo.

He was accompanied by members and executives of the party, including the CPC

CHANGE OF NAME OLUGBADE I formerly known and addressed as Miss Iyabode Silfat Olugbade now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Iyabode Silfat Ibrahim. All former documents remain valid.

Finbank plc and general public should please take note.

From Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

chairmen in the 16 local government areas of the state.

The party accused Yusuf of betraying its trust and confidence by allegedly conniving with the PDP to rig the just concluded local government poll, after which he defected to the ruling party.

CPC said: “Yusuf did not consult any stakeholder or party official on his plans to

return to the PDP. As such, no member of the CPC defected with him, except his family members and friends.

“The CPC in Taraba State is still intact. Not even a structure from the ward to the local government and state has shaken.”

Ahmed said CPC members would remain in the opposition to continue their fight against tyranny, election rigging and bad governance.

He recalled that Yusuf was just a “political harlot”, who was expelled from the PDP about seven years ago. He joined the Action Congress (AC) and lost the governorship poll in 2007. In 2011, he lost the governorship primaries of the now Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and jumped to the CPC to become the party’s candidate, after the conclusion of primaries, in which the court ruled against him.

Conduct Bureau to reopen Shekarau’s case

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HE Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) is set to reopen a case of alleged false asset declaration against former Kano State governor, Ibrahim Shekarau.

The CCB Chairman, Sam Saba, yesterday disclosed this to reporters in Abuja at the 2012 International Children’s Day with the theme: “Youths: Our future leaders, our hope.”

The bureau had earlier withdrawn the charge, citing inconclusive investigation.

The children’s forum is an annual programme initiated by the bureau to show solidarity with children and inculcate in their minds ethical values of hard work, discipline, loyalty, integrity, honesty and the fear of God. Saba said the bureau is in possession of new facts to nail Shekarau, the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) presidential candidate in the 2011 elections.

He said the new charge would soon be filed

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

The CCB boss urged children to shun examination malpractices, stealing, cultism, among other vices, saying “there is no short-cut to success but hard work.”

He said they should speak against corruption and report all forms of misconduct to anti-corruption agencies.

“For youths to provide leadership and hope for our future, they must be properly groomed in all facets of life. In this era of technological innovations and advancement, Nigerian youths cannot afford to be left behind. There is therefore an urgent need to provide effective quantitative and qualitative education for the Nigerian child to be able to compete in this race.”

Saba canvassed for better teachers’ remuneration and standard equipment for schools to increase literacy profile.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012

62

SPORT EXTRA NIGERIA/NAMIBIA CLASH

Keshi: No undue pressure for this tie

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UPER EAGLES’ handler, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, has said that he was not under any form of pressure from any quarter to excel with the national team, declaring that despite that, excellence is his ultimate desire as handler of the Eagles.

“There is nothing like pressure coming from any quarter. Tension or pressure is a natural thing in life. When you leave your house for a function you are under pressure to do it well, when you are driving you are under pressure to get to your destination, so life itself is full of pressure of all types, but no NFF official has put me under pressure.

He added that he was also not under any pressure to invite any player, as that will have negated the contract he entered into with the NFF. “All Nigerian players who are good enough should be rest assured that they are still members of this team, but for now, the 27 players in camp are the ones that I need, on Sunday, I may decide on new players for the next set of games”.

Keshi said the support he has been receiving from NFF President Aminu Maigari, noting that the Bauchi state born football administrator, has been a perfect gentleman in the AHEAD 18TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL EKO 2012

Ogun ‘All Comers Trials’ starts today

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LL is now set for the commencement of the Ogun State All comers Trials tagged “Ogun Grassroot Games” which will start today in many venues across the state in preparation for the 18th National Sports Festival EKO 2012.

In a statement signed by the Secretary publicity committee of Team Ogun who double as the Press-Officer of the State Ministry of Youth and Sports Mr. Rotimi Oduniyi, over 5,000 athletes have registered for 33 different Sports that will be competed for during the eight-day Grassroot Games.

Just like in international games, the trials for the football event both male and female have started ahead of other Sports because of the huge number of players that showed up at both the M.K.O Abiola and Muda Lawal Stadia in Abeokuta .

Other Sports that will be completed for by other athletes include different ballgames, judo, squash, weight lifting, chess, scrabble, karate, boxing, cycling, cricket, swimming, taekwondo, langa, kokowa, track and field as well as hockey and wrestling.

Venues for these sports whose trials will at 8.00am , simultaneously are the Alake Sports Centre, Day Waterman College ; Abeokuta Sports Club and Dipo Dine Stadium, Ijebu-Ode. The trials will end on the 8th of June with successful athletes winning invitation to join the state athletes for a closed-camping exercise fixed for the end of next month.

• Amuneke tips team to win manner he has piloted the affairs of the NFF. “No, he has not given me any mandate to win all the games I have because that may be impossible. But it’s my desire to win all my games, but you never can tell in a game of football”, he said.

Keshi also spoke on his relationship with NFF Technical Committee Chairman, Barrister Christopher Green, assuring that the bond is strong and united for the sake of Nigerian football. “I’m on the same page with Barr Green and

members of the Technical Committee”.

Meanwhile, Tunisia ’94 Nations Cup winning hero, Emmanuel Amuneke, has said he believes that the Eagles have what it takes to not only defeat Namibia, but easily qualify for the Brazil 2014 World Cup. “The team, we are seeing here is solid with a lot of experienced players, defeating Namibia should not be the issue but qualifying quick for the World Cup”, Amuneke said when he visited the team at its Metropolitan Hotel camp abode.

GULDER 5-A-SIDE FOOTBALL FINAL

Teams set to jostle for zonal tickets in Lagos

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HE final leg of the zonal qualifiers for the 2012 edition of the Gulder Ultimate Five Aside Football Competition is set to kick off this Friday, June 1, 2012 at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Qualifying matches are scheduled to be played at the New Gymnasium of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) from Friday, June 1, to Sunday, June 3, 2012.

The zonal qualifiers which started on Friday, April 27, 2012 have seen two teams each qualify from every zone, from the Abu King Shulluwa Playing Ground, Makurdi, venue of the North-Central zonal qualifiers to the training pitch of Rangers International Enugu, venue of the South-East zonal matches.

Two teams equally qualified from the practice pitch of the Liberation Stadium Port Harcourt, venue of the SouthSouth qualifiers. The train later moved to Oleh Township Stadium, Oleh, for the Mid-Western zonal matches from Friday, May 18 to Sunday, May 20, 2012, which also produced two representative teams for the zone.

Just last weekend, two teams qualified from the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode venue for the South-West zone. Two teams are also expected to qualify from the Lagos final qualifiers scheduled for this weekend.

Already the battle is set to be tough, as various teams are already preparing to jostle for the two tickets available for grabs and the right to represent Lagos in the finals of the annual football competition scheduled for June 14, 2012.

At the end of the Lagos qualifiers on Sunday, attention will shift to the finals of the annual Gulder football tournament, where the 12 qualifying teams from the zones will vie for the ultimate prize.

Speaking ahead of the final zonal qualifiers in Lagos, the Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Walter Drenth said: “After touring Makurdi, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Oleh and IjebuOde, and now back to Lagos, the brand is fully ready for the usual large turnout of teams and their supporters in the Centre of Excellence, which Lagos is reputed as”.

According to him, Nigerians should expect nothing but the best of ultimate grassroots football at its peak, where fans, spectators and players would enjoy themselves in a convivial atmosphere.

He further stated that, “Given the unique nature of Lagos, the brand has made all necessary arrangements for the large number of teams, supporters and spectators to have the opportunity to experience the excitement and fun during the ultimate football moments and at the same time enjoy a cold pint of the Ultimate beer while winning lots of branded Gulder prizes”.

At the end of the regional qualifiers, all the qualified teams that will come to play at the annual football competition in Lagos will be fully kitted by the Gulder brand, and the eventual winner will take home the sum of N5 Million, while the first and second runners up will take home N3 Million and N1Millon respectively.

NRA holds AGM in Gombe IGERIAN Referee Association (NRA) will today hold their Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Emerald Hills Hotel located along GSAOP, Gombe.

Among issues lined up to deliberate upon according to the whistle men’s image maker Mrs. Sareh Jumoke Adebisi are the welfare of football referees, performances reviews and way forward for the body.

“We shall deliberate on how we can foster a more good working relationship with the football governing body, the Nigerian Football

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Federations (NFF) especially on the issues bordering on welfare of our members, they deserved good working environment and better conditions of service”, Adebisi noted in Ibadan.

She also promised that Nigerian soccer lovers and the wide world would not have course to compliant against Nigeria referees again saying “the body had initiated a periodical refresher courses for their personnel on the use of the newly introduced electronics refereeing gadgets for effective and optimal performance”.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

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FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2012

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 7,

RIPPLES THE FUTURE OF OUR DEMOCRACY IS BRIGHT–Jonathan

Of course, it’s as BRIGHT as our POWER SUPPLY

NO. 2,143

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

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RESIDENT Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, presented his “Democracy Day” address to Nigerians on Tuesday, May 29, his first since he took the oath of office a year ago as the leader of this country. He assumed power with a lot of goodwill and an enviable bank of political capital. The man with a name that symbolises the aspiration of everyone, and a first-hand experience of the scourge of poverty, won the admiration of many Nigerians who identified with him and his familiar background.

That was twelve months ago, an eternity in politics. Then he didn’t have to remind Nigerians of their identity with him. They could smell it. Not anymore. Now many see him as just one of the other unreliable and untrustworthy political carnivores, slowly sucking the blood of their unsuspecting victims. Yet he has the duty to reassure them, not just for egoistic reasons, but also because he has to, by virtue of his position, even if and when the words that came out appear funny and unbelievable.

And so, after a roll-out of what he considered to be the high-points of his administration’s stewardship, Dr. Jonathan ended his address with a sermon from the top of the rock: “What matters most to all of us, is Nigeria. It is what binds us together. We have a duty to be loyal to our country. If we believe this to be a sacred obligation, it will not matter whether we are Christians or Muslims, or politicians, irrespective of political parties or divide. It really will not matter whether we are civil society agents, social activists or union leaders. What matters is Nigeria. This nation exists because we are one.

We must, therefore, remain as one family, and work together to defend our country.”

Let me first acknowledge two aspects of the address. First, the president must be congratulated for the personal appeal of the speech. This has not always been his greatest strength, or more correctly, the strength of his speechwriters who are more at ease with the impersonal language of uninspiring bureaucracy.

Lack of personal touch marred the president’s address after the self-inflicted wound of subsidy removal, in which every other sentence was punctuated by references to “government” as in “government will not tolerate violence.” In this address, on the other hand, in place of an abstract appeal to “government”, the president substituted an empathetic understanding of the unfulfilled desires of citizens: “As a former school teacher, I know that it is not enough to create jobs, we must develop human capacity and train a generation of Nigerian children with better competencies and skills.” It does not matter that the antecedent clause does not really hold (the president has not created jobs—at least not adequate to meet the needs of job-seekers). It matters however that

TOMORROW IN THE NATION ‘Now, this question for haters and professional critics: if a President says he was able to achieve all this in just 12 months despite the presumed lethargy in government, why should Nigerians still doubt his capacity to take us to the Promised Land?’

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Are we one?

•Dr Jonathan

he showed a personal engagement with the struggle of the youth.

The second aspect that deserves commendation is that the address appeals to the collective conscience of the nation and the values that is presumed to bind us together. This is in sync with the job description of a president and it is expected of anyone in Jonathan’s position. Democracy is the institutional practice that we all appear to embrace. Even though we don’t all work actively to promote it, democracy is what symbolises all that is good and noble in our being as a people, and one that can help avoid the danger of disintegration. A leader with a destiny to take a people to their highest level of eudamonia must therefore not only reassure them of his belief in democratic values, he must also be at the

forefront of democratic practice. The president certainly appears to demonstrate the belief; the second step requires a special kind of commitment.

I now return to the climax of the president’s address in the passage quoted above.

It is here that the president’s bully pulpit credentials come to the fore. How does he fare? We don’t have to be bogged down by an inelegant use of language. What is crucial is the effectiveness of the appeal which can be measured by how persuasive the argument is.

Let me just identify two ways in which the president’s argument may fail to persuade.

First, the audience may fail to buy the fundamentals of the argument. Second, if they buy the fundamentals, they may find the president’s practice at odds with the fundamentals of his arguments. In other words, the message may fail to persuade or the messenger may fail to impress. Unfortunately for the president, we are at a point in the experience of Nigerians that even an angel may fail to impress given the level of cynicism that we have been forced to entertain.

In reality, though, the message of the president is flawed. Take the main claim: “This nation exists because we are one.” I try to make sense of this statement and the more I try, the less I succeed. First, are we one? Of course, we are inhabitants of a common geographical space and so we are one. But is that what makes a nation? If our common geographical boundary is the reason that the Nigerian nation exists, does it surprise anyone that we have the challenges that have confronted us since 1914? If, however, our being one is not just geographical, what can we point to as its foundation? I mentioned our acceptance of democracy as a common value worth preserving and promoting. We

HARDBALL

YOMI ODUNUGA

know, of course, that this is work in progress, but it is one that can weld a disparate crowd of people together.

The second question that the president’s fundamental statement raises is this: do we have a nation? This is an old question that keeps coming back at us. Is it a single nation that exists or many nations? The President’s statement begs this fundamental question.

You don’t promulgate a nation into existence; you work towards it. This was what Ernest Renan meant when he claimed that “a nation is an everyday plebiscite.” In 1914, Lord Lugard failed to adopt Renan’s logic. We have had several opportunities since 1914 to get it right and at every point we dodged. The opportunity has presented itself to President Jonathan with his self-appointed agenda of transformation. He demurred. Now he would like to be the 21st century Lugard with his proclamation of the existence of the nation by fiat. Once there was the “Deep” that cut through the chase. But no one listened!

Finally, then, the messenger is as flawed as the message. The president had to do his job.

He had to mobilise citizens to pursue the common good. In our case, building the nation on the foundation of democratic norms with emphasis on true federal structures is the only way out. But in spite of his rhetoric, a large majority of Nigerians see President Jonathan as just another political trickster with an agenda that is far from transformational.

Consider the following from the second paragraph of his address: “For the past 13 years, we have remained a stable democracy. We have together demonstrated that the government of the people is an ideal that the people of Nigeria cherish. We have our differences as individuals and as politicians, but we have shown great faith in democracy and its institutions. We have refused to be limited by our differences…”

And the question on the lips of many Nigerians reading this statement is ‘who are the “we” that the President referenced here?’

Certainly it cannot be those Nigerians who were disenfranchised through rigging; or those Nigerians who have been deprived of the right to education or adequate healthcare or decent jobs, which are all preconditions for the practice of genuine democracy. When President Jonathan makes this kind of claim, he presents himself as either out of touch or deliberately disingenuous. Unfortunately, on the part of the people, measured cynicism is the response.

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•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

No going back on Unilag? Not even military rulers were so insensitive ELYING absolutely on sentiments instead of sound reason, Information minister, Mr Labaran Maku, says the federal government will not change its mind on the renaming of the University of Lagos (Unilag). The institution will continue to be Moshood Abiola University (MAU), he says defiantly and in obvious disregard for the rule of law. For this newspaper and those who know what the law says, the University of Lagos will continue to bear its old name until the National Assembly determines that the president’s intention should be backed by appropriate legislation. But judging from the protests that greeted President Goodluck Jonathan’s peremptory action, and the reasonable deduction that he has clearly posthumously consigned the hero of democracy, MKO Abiola, to his native Southwest region, it is expected that the National Assembly will decline to entertain the president’s wish. More, it is hoped that Unilag ASUU and students will go to court to compel the defiant president to follow due process.

But by far the most disturbing thing to come out of the Unilag/MAU controversy is actually the reaction of the federal government to public disapproval of the renaming. Addressing the press on Wednesday, just one day after the president announced the change of name, Maku insisted that the government would not change its mind for a number of reasons. Said he: “For those of us who have

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been part of this country for long and who have been adults that lived through the history of Nigeria, particularly in the last two decades, if there is any figure that symbolises sacrifice of self for this nation, that figure is Chief M.K.O Abiola, who clearly won the June12, 1993 presidential election and died in captivity because he stood for principle…In the last two decades, there has been widespread outcry that this democracy has not honoured Chief M.K.O Abiola and other heroes who passed on in controversial circumstances as a result of what they did to stand for the democratic development of this country…What Mr. President did was to listen to the outpouring of appeals of persuasion by Nigerians across this country that MKO deserved to be immortalised…I think the most important thing is that this decision should unify Nigeria: those who believe in one country, those who believe in one democracy, those who believe in the reward for sacrifice for the nation…”

Sometimes, members of the Jonathan government and the president himself assume we are as forgetful as they are. In his Democracy Day speech, the president described Abiola’s victory in the June 12, 1993 presidential election as “presumed.” Maku, in his own press conference, said categorically that Abiola “clearly won the June 12, 1993 presidential election.” What is in fact

clear is not what Maku had to say, or the president’s ambivalent reference to a presumed victory. On the contrary, what is clear is that the whole attitude of the federal government on the Abiola honour is duplicitous. The decision to rename Unilag was hastily taken, poorly considered, and with no thought whatsoever for the implications. It is typically Nigerian – the bane of the country’s underdevelopment.

More than this, by suggesting the president was unlikely to reverse himself on the renaming, Maku arrogated to a supposedly democratic government methods and powers past military governments were either reluctant to exercise or never exercised. The Jonathan presidency lacks the tact, honesty, empathy and language of a democratic government. It lacks the judgement to know when to be firm and when to be flexible. And it also repeatedly talks and acts like a military government. If it does not listen to the general outcry over the Unilag renaming, it must be prepared to meet an even more obstinate and angry electorate the next time it asks for the people’s votes.

The government exists to do the pleasure of the people, not the other way round, even though the Jonathan administration seems unaware of this fact. In any case, the next polls will show where legitimacy and moral right to use state power derives from: whether from the government or from the people.

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