June 28, 2013 new

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Senators split over CBN board members NEWS

Page 7

•Lawmakers insist on federal character

32 killed in Plateau communal clash NEWS

Page 57

•3,000 displaced, 100 houses burnt www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 8, NO. 2530 FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

THE GOVERNORS’ FORUM BATTLE

•Oshiomhole (left) to Jang: “you’re PDP extension chair”. Enjoying the joke are (from left): Al-Makura, Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar and Amaechi …yesterday.

•COUR TESY COURTESY TESY:: Amaechi (right) greeting Jang …yesterday PHOTOS: AKIN OLADOKUN

•THE AUTHENTIC CHAIR: Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole (left) telling (from left) Governors Jonah Jang (Plateau), Babangida Aliyu (Niger) and Tanko Al-Makura (Nasarawa ) that Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi (right) is the true chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) at the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday.

You can’t see Jonathan, guards tell Amaechi

I

It’s protocol breach, says official ACN calls for probe

T would have been an opportunity to mend fences - they are widely perceived to harbour some differences.

But, Wednesday’s “midterm dinner for transformation team” at the Presidential Villa was for President

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja Goodluck Jonathan and Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi a missed opportunity to pump hands and flash some smiles.

Amaechi entered the venue of the dinner and went

Police get 1% from federation account

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straight to the President’s table – apparently to exchange pleasantries. He almost got to the President when a group of security aides blocked his way, fencing him.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Chairman was unruffled. He went to take his

seat.

A source confirmed yesterday that a security operative blocked Amaechi because of “a protocol breach”.

There was anxiety in the governor’s camp following alleged mumbling of some words by the operative.

A source, who spoke in confidence with our correspondent, said: “The governor meant well in trying to meet with the President as a sign of deference to the nation’s leader.”

“Acting on alleged intelligence report on the utterances

and disposition of the governor, the security operative, in a stern manner, told Amaechi: ‘You cannot see the President; you cannot see him.’ The tone suggested a pre-meditated action.

“The same operative startContinued on page 4

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

HE police got a piece of good news yesterday. They are to get one per cent from the Federation Account.

The National Economic Council (NEC), which gave the approval, said the cash should be deducted as a first line charge.

The NEC is the major economic body chaired by the vice president. Governors, ministers of National Planning, Finance, FCT and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor are members. The body meets monthly at the State House in Abuja.

Anambra State Governor Peter Obi told reporters after yesterday’s meeting that the one per cent deducted will be domiciled in Continued on page 4

•His Eminence Ola Makinde, Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria (third left) during a visit to Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu over his mother Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji’s death in his Ikoyi, Lagos home...yesterday.

With them are Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji (third right), Rev. Chibuzor Okpoko (fourth right) and others.

•SPORTS P24 •SOCIETY P25 •BRANDS P35•POLITICS P47 •CITYBEATS P53

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

2

NEWS

Madiba...

•From left: Executive Vice-Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Dr. Eugene Juwah, Permanent Secretary Communication Technology Ministry Dr. Henry Akpan and Minister of Communication Technology Mrs. Omobola Johnson at a stakeholders' meeting in Lagos.

The news that former South African President Nelson Mandela’s condition has improved has created excitement among many of his compatriots. It has also elicited a poser: is the ‘recovery’ for good?

• 95 children releasing 95 ballons signifying Mandela’s next birthday outside the hospital ...on Wednesday.

PHOTOS: AFP

S

• From left: Keynote speaker/Director, Euro-China Centre for Leadership and Responsibility (ECCLAR) Prof. Mike Thompson; founder/Director, AACE Foods Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli; Director, Etisalat CSR Centre Lagos Business School (LBS) Dr. Chris Ogbechie and Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria Mr. Steven Evans, at this year’s International Sustainability Conference at the LBS, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos...yesterday.

•From left: Chairman, Ashaka Cement Company Plc Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga; Company Secretary/Legal Adviser Mr Bello Abdullahi; Board Vice-Chairman Mr John Stull and Board member Senator Muhammed Muhammed, at the company's AGM in Bauchi...yesterday.

•Managing Director, Chemical & Allied Products (CAP) Plc Mrs. Omolara Elemide (second left) greeting the Managing Director , Wow Road Shows Limited Mr. Tokunbo Odebunmi, during the flag off of the second phase of the Dulux Mobile Room Make-Over Activation...yesterday. With them are Marketing Manager Mr. Dominic Oladeji (left) and Brand Manager Miss Omole Imosemi (right).

OUTH African President Jacob Zuma has said former President Nelson Mandela’s condition has improved, but still remains critical.

“He is much better today (yesterday) than he was when I saw him last night (Wednesday),” Mr. Zuma said after speaking to the 94year-old’s medical team.

One of the anti-apartheid icon’s daughters told NBC News in an exclusive interview yesterday that Mandela “is not going to go anywhere anytime soon”.

Speaking to Special Correspondent Charlayne Hunter-Gault, Zindzi Mandela said her father was “very comfortable” and “responding” as he battles a lung infection at a Pretoria hospital.

“His whole legacy is about fighting,” she said. “I can’t stress enough what a fighter he is. He’s a strong man.”

When asked whether the family would welcome a visit by President Barack Obama, who is due to visit South Africa this weekend, Mandela said she wasn’t aware of any formal request but added that decision would be left with doctors treating the Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

NBC’s Keir Simmons reports from outside the Pretoria, South Africa, hospital where Nelson Mandela is being treated, as the presidential spokesman says “it doesn’t look good” and Mandela’s daughter asks people to respect his privacy.

She described Mandela’s condition as “typical for a 94-year-old man whose health is frail.”

“He is with us,” Mandela added.

Meanwhile, Mandela’s eldest daughter said he appeared to be able to hear family members.

Speaking to SABC radio, Makaziwe Mandela said: “I won’t lie, it doesn’t look good. But as I say, if we speak to him, he responds and tries to open his eyes. He’s still there.

He might be waning off, but he’s still there.”

Other members of the former South African president’s family thanked well-wishers around the world for their support.

“Sometimes it is very hard for all of us in the family,” said Swati Dlamini, one of Mandela’s 17 grandchildren. “We just appreciate that he’s loved.”

Relatives collected flowers from outside the hospital on Thursday. A choir prayed and sang outside the building, as other people arrived to deliver bouquets and messages of support for the 94-year-old. By late afternoon, a crowd of about 1,000

people had gathered nearby.

Earlier, one family member described Mandela’s condition as “stable.” However, presidential spokesman Mac Maharaj told reporters that the condition remained “critical.”

Mandela has already spent 20 days in the hospital, his fourth hospitalization in six months.

Zuma canceled a trip to Mozambique in an indication of heightened concern about Mandela, who is widely regarded as the father of the nation and whose health deteriorated last weekend.

In a statement, Zuma said that Mandela was “much better” yesterday than he had been the previous night.

“The medical team continues to do a sterling job,” he added.

South Africa’s first black president - an icon of the anti-apartheid struggle - has been in hospital in Pretoria since 8 June with a lung infection.

Mr. Zuma cancelled a visit to Mozambique to visit Mr Mandela in

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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NEWS

how far can life support go?

•Children praying for Mandela outside the Medi Clinic Heart Hospital...yesterday.

•Mandela’s grandchildren arriving at the Medi Clinic Heart Hospital with flowers …yesterday.

•People walking past a portrait of Mandela and ArchBishop Desmond Tutu on display at the Cape Town Civic Centre

•South Africans holding a procession for ailing Mandela...yesterday.

hospital.

Meanwhile Mr Mandela’s daughter Makaziwe said he was “still there” and responding to touch.

Emotional crowds have gathered outside the hospital, adding messages of support for Mr. Mandela, known by his clan name Madiba.

Children released 94 balloons one for every year of the expresident’s life - into the air in his honour.

Correspondents say South Africans now seem resigned to the prospect of his death.

“We don’t like seeing Mandela going through so much pain, he has had a tough time in his life and he’s gone through a lot of struggle. I think this struggle should get over sooner,” Khulile Mlondleni told Reuters news agency.

“We are all going to feel bad when he passes (away), but at the same time we will be celebrating his life.

He has done so many great things for this country,” said 25-year-old John Ndlovu, quoted by the agency.

US President Barack Obama, who

Obama calls Mandela a ‘personal hero’

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RESIDENT Barack Obama, whose tour of Africa this week includes a stop in South Africa, yesterday said his thoughts were with the nation’s citizens as anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela remains critically ill.

“He is a personal hero, but I’m not unique in that regard,” Obama told CNN Chief White House Correspondent Jessica Yellin in Dakar, Senegal, the first stop of his African tour.

is in Senegal, described Mr. Mandela as “a hero for the world”.

“His legacy will linger on through the ages,” he said.

After visiting her grandfather in hospital on Wednesday, Ndileka Mandela said it was an anxious time for the family.

“He’s stable and we’d like to say that we thank everybody for giving their support and praying with us... we are anxious as you know that he is critical but he’s in a stable condition right now,” she said.

“It’s been hard, especially because

“I think he’s a hero for the world and if/when he passes, we know his legacy will linger on throughout the ages,” the president said.

Obama’s visit to South Africa on Saturday will include a visit to Robben Island, where Mandela spent a majority of his prison term. The White House schedule does not include a visit with the anti-apartheid icon.

After South Africa, Obama heads to Tanzania, his last stop before he heads back to Washington.

of all of this - that we have to do everything in the public eye.”

Mandela’s daughter Makaziwe said while the situation was serious he was still responsive.

“He doesn’t look good, I’m not going to lie,” she said, after seeing him on Wednesday night.

“But as I say, if we speak to him, he responds and tries to open his eyes. He’s still there. He might be waning off, but he’s still there,” she told public broadcaster SABC. She was also highly critical of the behaviour of the international me-

dia.

“There is sort of a racist element with many of the foreign national media where they cross boundaries - it’s like truly vultures waiting (for) when the lion has devoured the buffalo… we don’t mind the interest but I just think that it has gone overboard,” Ms Mandela said.

Zuma’s spokesman Mac Maharaj also criticised some media outlets for broadcasting unverified information, as rumours spread on social media sites.

Media reports say the bodies of

three of Mandela’s children are to be moved from his birthplace to his home in Qunu, where he himself has said he wants to be buried.

They include his son Makgatho, who died of an Aids-related illness in 2005.

Mandela is revered for leading the fight against white minority rule in South Africa and then preaching reconciliation despite being imprisoned for 27 years.

He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and was elected president the following year. He left office in 1999 after a single term.

Mandela retired from public life in 2004 and has rarely been seen at official events since.

He has a long history of lung problems, and was diagnosed with tuberculosis in the 1980s while he was a prisoner on Robben Island, off Cape Town.

After his release, Mandela said the tuberculosis was probably caused by dampness in his prison cell.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

NEWS Budget amendment row: Jonathan succumbs •Sends new version

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•President Goodluck Jonathan (second right), Malawian President, Mrs. Joyce Banda (right), Liberian President, Mrs Ellen JohnsonSirleaf (second left) and Vice President Namadi Sambo at the launch of a book CHAMPION FOR WOMEN and President’s mid-term dinner at the Presidential Villa, Abuja...on Tuesday .

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

Police get 1% from federation account Continued from page 1

the states.

The implementation of the proposal will take immediate effect, he said, adding that the 53% Federal Government component of the 1% fund would be spread across the states.

The cash, which is like what is being deducted for power and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Obi said, would largely assist in tackling insecurity.

Obi, who chairs the Nigeria Reform Police Interim Implementation Committee, said: “The Council welcomed the proposals we submitted and threw its weight behind the recommendations for a statutory funding of the Police Reform Programme - in line with the provisions of the Constitution.”

“NEC agreed to provide extra funding for the police.

It agreed for a deduction of one per cent (1%) first line charge during the revenue allocation. Funds deducted would be used exclusively in the state. The implementation

modalities will be worked out.”

He added: “The Committee recommended the pruning down of the initial overall cost estimate of the reform from N2.8trillion to N 1.5trillion, as well as the extension of the reform period from five to six years, to ensure the government’s commitment to the transformation of the police for effective security service delivery.

“The memo also recommended a joint funding of the revised cost of N1.5 trillion with 60% coming from the federal, states and local governments (60%) while the Organised Private Sector (OPS) and international development partners are to contribute 40%.”

Speaking on the challenge of out-of-school children, Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu said NEC praised the governors for agreeing to accelerate the drive to tackle the issue.

According to him, NEC accepted to “put in place in the states an efficient implemen-

tation machinery to take advantage of aid from the Nigerian business community, United Nations Education First initiative and the Global Business coalition on Education.

“Support the concentration of intervention on the provision/rehabilitation of infrastructure, teacher training, TVET, and community participation.

“Action plan to outline strategies to improve and meet the MDGs by 2015.

Support adults and youths in developing Small and Medium Enterprises.”

Aliyu said NEC directed the Minister of Education and the commissioners for Education to work out broad guidelines on the implementation of the recommendations.

Adamawa State Governor Murtala Nyako said NEC set up a committee to ensure that oil theft is stopped or reduced to the barest minimum.

He said: “After an extensive discussion on the per-

sisting problem of crude oil theft and its negative effect on the revenue from the sector, NEC noted the following: acknowledged the efforts being made by the federal, some state governments and the security agencies towards combating the scourge.

“Identified the need for enhanced collaboration among the affected states, security agencies and the federal government to address all administrative hurdles towards combating the menace.

“Set up a committee to holistically assess the challenge and draw up a roadmap to guide further actions that would be taken by NEC towards finding a lasting solution to the problem.

“The Committee, which is to report back to the Council at the next meeting has Governors of Delta (chair), Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Edo and Ondo states as members. The other members are Minister of Finance, Minister of National Planning and Minister of Petroleum.

ESS than 24 hours after the House of Representatives dumped the 2013 Budget Amendment bill, President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday sent a new version to the lawmakers.

The President’s two-page letter was read in plenary by Speaker Aminu Tambuwal.

The new version indicated proposed changes across the expenditure categories.

Jonathan is seeking cuts from various sectors as contained in the 2013 Appropriation Act amounting to N62.29b. He pleaded with the lawmakers to restore the initial N27b proposed for the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme and Empowerment (SURE-P) that was slashed to N9b.

The letter reads: “As you may recall, I had transmitted the 2013 Amendment Budget proposal to the National Assembly on 14th March 2013.

“However, following further consultations, I am forwarding a new version of the categorised 2013 Amendment-Budget proposal indicating changes proposed

Continued from page 1

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across the expenditure categories.

“Some Capital Projects, the allocations of which were reduced and which we seek your cooperation in restorrng-so as to promote national development”.

The President also noted the personnel cost that was cut across all MDAs would make it difficult to meet the government’s obligations to its workers. “I, therefore, seek your kind understating for the restoration of the said cuts in order to maintain industrial harmony.

“It is my hope that this submission will help the work of the House of Representatives to consider and pass the 2013 Amendment Budget proposal expeditiously,” he added.

Dr. Jonathan, however, pleaded with lawmakers to restore the original N27b proposed for SURE-P on the basis that the N9b allocated to it in the Appropriation Act would affect employment generation initiatives of the government.

Continued on page 60

Boko Haram burns 209 schools in Yobe

T

The scale of the massive destruction carried out

by Boko Haram in Yobe State was laid bare yesterday.

The government said it had spent over N4billion battling the insurgents. Yobe, Borno and Adamawa are under a state of emergency declared

by President Goodluck Jonathan last month.

Deputy Governor Abubakar Aliyu, who stood in for Governor Ibrahim Gaidam, told the visiting members of the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, led by Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, that since November 2011, many lives had been lost.

You can’t see Jonathan, guards tell Amaechi

ed mumbling words which sounded like threats. I think the incident did not allow Amaechi to wait till the end of the event,” the source said.

Another source said as Amaechi entered the dinner venue, he went straight to the Presidkent’s table, but “the ADC and the CSO” blocked him.

The source said there was no exchange of words. “As soon as they blocked him, he got the message and turned back.

A minister who shared a table with the governor saw it all,” the source said.

Amaechi could not be reached for comments last night.

But a security official, who pleaded not to be named because be is not permitted to talk to the media, said: “There was a breach of protocol by the governor and the operative politely asked the governor to tarry a while.

“The dinner was already on when Amaechi and some governors came in. In protocol, there was no way a presidential guard or security operative would allow anyone to ex-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

From Duku Joel, Damaturu

He said property belonging to government institutions and individuals were destroyed by the insurgents. They include 209 schools estimated to cost N2.5 billion.

This is in addition to private structures worth N629 million, which were burnt by the insurgents.

Aliyu said: “Within the span of one year, November 2011 and October 2012, in addition to the loss of lives, public buildings like schools, mosques, churches and vehicles were razed down by the insurgents.

“About 209 government school buildings, comprising Continued on page 60

Drama as Amaechi, Jang greet, sit side-by-side

IVERS State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and his Plateau State counterpart Jonah Jang were seated together during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting yesterday.

Governors were made to sit alphabetically, according to their States’ names.

The sitting arrangement was unlike those of the NEC meetings before the acrimonious Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) election. Amaechi used to sit close to the Chairman of the NEC meeting, Vice President Namadi Sambo. Amaechi always spoke for the NGF. Since Amaechi won re-election in May change pleasantries with the President in the middle of an event.

“It was not a slight but a protocol norm. I think the security operative lived up to his job.”

A Presidency source, however, disputed the alleged encounter between an operative and Amaechi.

He said: “All the governors were well-treated at the event.

They were all sitting either on the second or third row to the President. Everything went

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

by beating Jang 19 votes to 16, Jang has led a faction of the NGF. Besides, opening a parallel NGF office in Abuja, Jang has declared himself chairman of the forum, His proof: he was the consensus candidate of 19 governors before the election.

The NEC meeting was the first opportunity for the two governors to sit at a round table.

Amaechi, who arrived at the meeting before Jang, on getting to his seat, said: “So, we are sitting together; authentic and the fake chairman.”

well - by the reckoning of the Presidency.

“I also sat very close to the governors; I cannot remember such incident happening at all.

“Governor Amaechi has not spoken about the alleged incident. I do not know where those writing about it got this story.

“If it was true, Amaechi would have disclosed this when he spoke with the State House Correspondents on Wednesday night at the Villa.”

A source in the NGF said: “I

Amaechi and Jang only greeted and shook hands with each other when Jang arrived a few minutes later.

When Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole arrived, he said jokingly while facing television cameras and pointing to Amaechi: “This is my Chairman.” Pointing to Jang, he said: “This is PDP extension faction chairman.”

Noticing the sitting arrangement for Rivers and Plateau governors, Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu said: “This is nice o. Somebody is trying to be diplomatic here.”

The meeting began as soon as the Vice President arrived.

think the President should look into the alleged mumbling of some words to the governor. The mumbled words sounded like threats.

“The incident goes beyond protocol issue.”

The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) yesterday urged President Jonathan to probe the report.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the President should ensure that whoever is behind such a

condescending treatment of a governor is properly sanctioned to serve as a deterrent. ‘’We are making this call because we do not believe that, in spite of the reported frosty relations between the two, President Jonathan – as the father of the nation - will lend the weight of his high office to such a demeaning action as exhibited by the presidential security personnel. ‘’To believe that anyone occupying the esteemed office of the President of one of Africa’s

•Amaechi

most important nations will be a party to a situation in which any security aide will wilfully fence a state chief executive from paying his respect to the Continued on page 60

ADVERT HOTLINES: 08023006969, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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NEWS

Adoke: Fed Govt has recovered £22.5m stolen assets abroad

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HE Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr Mohammed Adoke (SAN), said yesterday the ministry has recovered over 20 million pounds allegedly stolen from Nigeria’s coffers.

The minister also gave reasons why the death penalty could not be abolished in the country.

Adoke spoke at this year’s Ministerial Platform in Abuja.

He noted that the stolen money was recovered from a man he named as Raj Arjandes Bhojwani, an Indian and associate of the late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha.

The minister said the assets

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja (with agency report)

were recovered in 2011, adding that the ministry also recovered and repatriated the money following its negotiations with the Island of Jersey.

Adoke said: “During the period under review, the ministry intensified its efforts to trace and repatriate Nigeria’s stolen assets abroad.

“In this connection, we have maintained effective liaison and communication with targeted jurisdictions to keep pace with assets recovery proceedings in those jurisdictions.

“In 2011, our close liaison and negotiation with the Island of Jersey led to the recovery and repatriation of £22.5 million confiscated by the Royal Court of Jersey from Raj Arjandes Bhojwani, an Indian national and associate of Gen. Sani Abacha, on account of his money laundering transactions from Nigeria.”

The minister also said the Principality of Liechtenstein recently confiscated 175 million Euro from the Abacha family and associate companies in Liechtenstein.

According to him, although Nigeria has not recov-

ered nor repatriated the money following an appeal by the companies involved, the ministry would ensure the repatriation of the money.

“We continued the liaison and negotiations with the Principality of Liechtenstein, which recently confiscated 175 million Euro from the Abacha family and associated companies in Liechtenstein, following a confiscation order by the Supreme Court of Liechtenstein.

“However, the companies involved have lodged an appeal against the decision before the European Court of Justice in Strasburg.

“As soon as the appeal is concluded, firm arrangements consistent with the asset recovery provisions of the United Nations convention against corruption would be made to repatriate the forfeited sums to Nigeria.”

On death penalty, the minister said global debate on its desirability or otherwise, as well as its abolition had not assumed a momentum to command a global agreement.

He noted that even if death penalty was to be abolished, it should be done by the states, because most capital offences that attracting

Reps begin probe into HIV/ AIDS funds

Michael Jackson’s son testifies singer was unhappy with promoter

•The DirectorGeneral, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri (right), with the Permanent Secretary, National Committee on Ecological Problems, during an advocacy visit to the Ecological Fund Office in Abuja... yesterday.

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ICHAEL Jackson’s eldest son testified on Wednesday in the wrongful death lawsuit filed by his family against AEG Live that the late pop star was unhappy with the concert promoter in the runup to his “This Is It’’ concert series in 2009.

Prince Jackson 16, said he saw his father often get upset on the phone with AEG Live Chief Executive Officer Randy Phillips, but was unable to stand up for himself in disagreements.

“He would get off the phone, he would cry sometimes,’’ Prince told jurors in a Los Angeles courtroom about his father. “He would say: ‘They’re going to kill me.

They’re going to kill me.’ He was like my grandma. He was too kind to fight anybody.’’

Small parts of a video recording of Prince and younger sister Paris’ deposition recorded months earlier had been played in court last week, but Prince was the first Jackson family member to testify in person at the trial.

Reps seek 25-year jail for illegal arms possession

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BILL stipulating 25years jail term for illegal possession of firearms went through the second reading in the House of Representatives yesterday.

The bill seeks to amend the Fire arms Act, Cap F28, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, which prescribes a fouryear jail term for offenders.

The bill got overwhelming support from members.

Justifying the amendment of the principal Act, the sponsor

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

of the bill, Dakuku Peterside (PDP, Rivers), noted that the influx of illegal arms into Nigeria “constitutes a serious threat to our unity, socio-political and economic development”.

According to him, one of the key reasons the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) gave at a recent briefing on why Boko Haram was thriving is the proliferation of illegal arms.

Peterside said: “A 2011 small and light arms survey by the United Nations (UN) shows that about 875 million of such weapons are produced in 100 countries and are in circulation.

“Nigeria’s share of the illegal arms in circulation was put at about eight million in 2011 and 12 million in 2012, making Nigeria the country with the highest rate of prevalence of illegal arms in Africa alongside South Africa.”

Dana: Multiple claims stall compensation, HE Minister of Aviation, says minister Ms. Stella Oduah, has decried the lateness in pay-

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ing compensation to some of the victims of Dana Air plane crash.

She said multiple claims by some victims have stalled the payment.

The minister addressed reporters yesterday during the Mid-Term Ministerial Platform Briefing in Abuja.

She assured that the Dana Air mishap would not occur again.

“It was a sad story. What happened with Dana will never occur again,” Ms Oduah said.

The minister explained that despite the challenge of multiple claims, the airline has done

From Olugbenga Adanikin, Jane Maha and Frank Ikpefan, Abuja

well in compensating some families of victims of the crash.

She said: “The challenge Dana Air has is that of multiple claims. When you have multiple claims, it becomes difficult to ascertain who should collect.

“Until they are able to do that, they will not pay multiple claims. They will continue verifying and re-verifying to ascertain who should be the next of kin to claim the money.”

Ms Oduah said the airline has until December to com-

plete all compensations to the crash victims.

“However, Dana is given until December. Should they fail to pay completely, we will sanction them, and they are aware of that. So, I am sure they are accelerating the process.”

The Aviation minister noted that all obsolete equipment at airports have been changed to enhance efficiency and strengthen security.

She said: “In aviation, safety and security are not destinations. We do not stop; we keep on improving on what we have. Everything we do in aviation is about safety and securi-

A

By Precious Igbonwelundu

il Procedure) Rules 2012, sought leave of court to call three additional witnesses.

The bank opposed the amendment on the grounds that it was a ploy by the claimant to introduce new facts which allegedly emanated after hearing of the suit began in 2010.

But Justice Okuwobi, in her ruling, appraised the facts of the matter and granted the claim-

ant leave to amend his originating process and call additional witnesses.

The court held that it could not honestly be said that the proposed amendment would change the character of the claimant’s case.

The judge averred that the facts sought to be incorporated by the claimant would merely expand the facts already in evidence and that the reliefs sought arose from the same set of facts

The lawmaker said the proliferation of small and light arms has become a network affair that needs to be broken.

He said: “Proliferation of small and light arms thrive in Nigeria because of several cells involved in the trade; importers, transporters, those who warehouse it, those who market it, those who bear it, among others, very often the law focuses on those who bear it.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

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HE House of Representatives yesterday began investigation into how funds for HIV/AIDS were managed.

Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal assured that the probe was not meant to witchhunt but to enhance transparency and access to medical facilities for the sufferers of the disease.

Tambuwal spoke at the opening of the investigative hearing by the Joseph Kigbuled House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Malaria and Leprosy Control.

The probe is on the need to check the activities of governmental and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in Nigeria.

The Speaker said the probe is not an attempt to restrict or control the activities on NGOs but to ensure transparency and accountability in the activities of government agencies and NGOs. This, he noted, would regain the confidence of donor organisations.

PENGASSAN gives Fed Govt seven-day strike notice

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•Oduah

ty.

“Aviation security has assumed global dimension and there are internationally acceptable standards that must be complied with. Security and customer comfort at airports has reached 95 per cent.”

N10b suit: Court allows Braithwaite’s application to call witnesses LAGOS High Court, Igbosere, yesterday granted the request of frontline lawyer, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, to call additional witnesses in a N10 billion suit he filed against Standard Chartered Bank.

Braithwaite, in a Motion on Notice brought before Justice Doris Okuwobi, pursuant to Order 24 Rules 1 and 2 of the High Court of Lagos State (Civ-

death sentences are state offences.

Adoke said since Nigeria operates federalism, the Federal Government cannot compel states to do away with death penalty.

He hoped that when the time comes, the laws would be amended to provide an alternative to the death penalty.

Also, the Federal Government has prosecuted 75 suspects for terrorism and Boko Haram insurgency between 2011 and 2013 Adoke said yesterday.

He said 16 of the cases had been concluded with eight convictions while 35 cases were struck out.

contained in the original writ.

She also dismissed the bank’s objection to the inclusion of the Environmental Impact Audit Report prepared by experts as part of the amendment.

Dr Braithwaite is demanding N10 billion as general damages for the nuisance allegedly caused the neighbourhood due to the noise and pollution of the bank’s giant electric generating sets.

HE Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has given the Federal Government a seven-day notice to meet its demand or face a strike.

Its General Secretary, Mr Bayo Olowoshile, gave the notice yesterday at the end of the union’s meeting in Lagos.

He listed the union’s grievances as follows: migration of permanent jobs to contract and outsource labour to deny Nigerians the rights and benefits of full employment and commensurate compensations in the oil and gas sector.

“We are also not happy that the government is paying a lip service toward effective integration and compliance with the ratified International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions, as an integral part of Nigerian extant laws,” Olowoshile said.

The PENGASSAN scribe said the union was unhappy with its exclusion in the recently constituted committee on its reported case of pipeline sabotage and oil theft.

He said the result of the divestment decision and imminent job losses triggered by oil theft and bunkering, coupled with unchecked illegal refining activities, should be resolved.

Olowoshile said: “Indecision around new and ongoing projects and investment flights considerations resulting from government’s delay in passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill, is also a problem.”

The PENGASSAN scribe also said the government should tackle illegal bunkering and oil theft to sustain development in the oil sector.

“It is our duty as labour to boost the confidence of the existing and potential investors who yearn for enabling environment for the existing and future business interests and projects lest the nation misses investment opportunities to the detriment of all and sundry,” he said.

The union leader urged the government to fund the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) as well as harmonise the nomenclature of agencies and institutions with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

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THE NATION FRIDAY JUNE 28, 2013

NEWS

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Senate probes $27m ‘fraud’ in Nigerian Embassy •Obiozor, Ogwu, Adefuye, others summoned

HE Senate yesterday began a probe of the alleged sale of some Federal Government’s prime properties in the United States of America valued at $27 million.

The cash was said to have been embezzled by Nigerian Embassy officials in the US. The fund was realised from the sale of “four prime properties in Washington DC and Maryland.”

The allegations are contained in a petition sent to Senate President David Mark by Daniel Elombah on behalf of Transform Nigeria Citizen Initiative, a non-government organisation (NGO).

Mark directed his Chief of Staff, Senator Anthony Manzo, to refer the petition to the Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Matthew Nwagwu, for action.

Nwagwu, who opened the investigation of the matter yesterday, invited Dr. George Obiozor, Nigerian Ambassador to the US from 2004 to 2007; Prof. Joy Ogwu, current Nigerian Representative to the United Nations and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, 2006 to 2007 and Ambassador Ade Adefuye, current Nigerian Ambassador to the US, who resumed duty in October 2010 for interaction.

Before the investigation moved

From: Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

into a closed door session, Nwagwu said there were allegations of embezzlement of funds in Washington, in particular the sale of properties in the US. He said it was alleged that the resources were squandered by Nigerian Embassy officials in the US. Nwagwu said: “Ours is to give you a chance to address the committee, to tell us what you know about the administration and management of the funds within your tenure from 2004 to date.

“There is a petition before the committee on the issue. We have the petition and we are taking it on the face value.

“We are giving this opportunity to the Minister and Ambassador to explain what happened.

“We are not a court of law and you are not on trial. We just want to keep the record straight.”

In the letter to Mark, entitled: ‘Petition concerning misappropriation and embezzlement of funds by the Nigerian Ambassador to the United States and others,’ the petitioner requested Mark to investigate what happened to the funds realised from

PDP shifts mini convention

the sale of certain properties of the Nigerian government in the United States between 2004 and 2007.

It said available records showed that between 2004 and 2007, Nigerian Embassy sold four prime properties of the Nigerian government located in Washington DC and Maryland.

The Embassy, it said, also began the sale of a fifth property in San Francisco, California.

It said: “For the sale of those properties, Nigerian government retained the services of ECULAW law firm.

“Of those sales, Nigeria realised approximately $27 million.

“Funds realised from these sales, except those set aside as fees, were remitted to the Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC. “As at June 2007, when the Law firm that advised the Embassy on the sale of the properties met the Embassy officials on the Embassy premises in Washington, all these funds and transactions were duly confirmed.

“On that occasion, it was also confirmed that the Nigerian Embassy had placed the funds in a special account with M&T Bank in Washington DC. “M&T Bank had been the bank

the Embassy used for other transactions and had about three accounts with that bank.

“It was confirmed in clear terms that their bank was holding huge deposits comprising the proceeds of the sale of these properties.

“This remained the position after Ambassador Obiozor had returned to Nigeria upon completing his service in Washington.

“Those huge funds were lodged in Washington rather than being remitted to Nigeria.

“Any honest observer of these events would suppose it would be only a short period of time pending a brief protocol necessary for the remittance of those funds to the Nigerian treasury.

“However, and surprisingly, the Nigerian Embassy left that money in Washington partly because it yielded substantial monthly interests, which the Embassy officials would never have to account for.

“The funds remained in those account throughout the tenure of Ambassador Oluwole Rotimi.

“Then arrived Ambassador Adebowale Adefuye in Washington.

“When Adefuye got to Washington, the funds were still

lodged in the M&T Bank account intact.

“Between the time Adefuye became the Ambassador until March, 2012, the millions in the account mysteriously disappeared.

“This became clear when the M&T Bank was forced to close the bank accounts of Nigerian Embassy and terminate all banking relations with the Embassy at the beginning of 2012.

“In the correspondence between the bank and the Embassy, which were made public, it became clear that the accounts of the Embassy with M7T Bank, including the one containing the proceeds of the sale of the Embassy properties had been drawn down to barely $400,000.”

The petition claimed that since March 2012, there has not been any explanation of what happened to the millions of dollars realised from the sale of the Embassy properties in the US, which were in the bank account at the time Ambassador Adefuye assumed office.

He said it was time to focus on the truth about the missing money.

He noted that the least the government should do is to come out and explain to Nigerians what happened to the funds.

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

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HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has shifted its mini convention earlier scheduled for July 20 till further notice.

The party, in a statement yesterday, cited the coming Ramadan fast as reason for the shift.

The postponement is coming on the heels of a petition by the Ogun State chapter of the PDP kicking against election into the office of the National Secretary of the party to replace Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who was removed from the position.

In the petition, signed by Adebayo Dayo and Semiu Shodipo, Chairman and Secretary, the chapter said it would be wrong for the party leadership to replace Oyinlola through the proposed Southwest congress.

Oyinlola was removed from office on the strength of a judgment of a Federal High Court that voided the zonal congress through which he emerged as a candidate for the position.

•National Youth Service Corps members at the beginning of the orientation camp at Ise-Orun Ekiti, Ekiti State... yesterday

Petrodollar fuelling corruption in Nigeria, say UK, UN officials

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EVENUE from the oil and gas sector has been identified as the cause of corruption and conflicts in Nigeria.

This conclusion was drawn by several key speakers including the United Kingdom Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr. Peter Carter and Head of the United Nation’s Global Compact (UNGC), Ms. Olajobi Makinwa, at a dialogue on the extractive industry held in

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From Shola O’Neil, Regional Editor

Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday.

Speakers at the one-day workshop, entitled: ‘Extractive Industry Dialogue on Corruption,’ organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) in collaboration with the UNGC, urged Nigerians to exploit existing legislatures, including the Freedom of Information Act to demand answers on revenue and expenditure from their government.

Mr. Carter noted that oil and gas mining can deliver transformational change, not only in Nigeria, but also all over the world, if revenues are judiciously utilised for the good of the people.

He said: “Last year, Nigeria’s oil export is over total net aids to the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa. “Giving information about the sale and purchase of these valuable natural resources is vital to ensure that they are properly managed and to build open economies and society.

“As we all know today, if people can see how much their governments receive from selling the resources that rightly belong to them, they can question how that money is being spent.”

Ms. Makinwa, Head, Transparency and Anti-Corruption Initiatives of the UNGC, said: “Huge revenues from these industries have often fuelled corruption, economic stagnation, inequality, conflict and so on.”

She lamented that while oil multinational companies continue to record global profits, governments in resourcerich nations, such as Nigeria struggle to stay solvent.

“Discrepancies in reporting has led to host governments (including many African countries) not receiving full payment from the extractive and logging industries operating in their territories.

“Many resource-rich countries are not receiving benefits from the extraction of their natural resources; wealth is not distributed evenly and local citizens are not feeling the positive and developmental impact from foreign investment in the extractive industry.”

In his presentation, entitled:

‘Global Rulers on Corporate Disclosure in Payments/to Governments in the Hydrocarbon Industry: How Much Compliance?’ Mr. Ledum Mitee, Chairman of the Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI), noted that global rules alone cannot stamp out corruption in the sector.

He said for global legislations to be successful, local laws and system must cooperate with them and go ahead to deal with local circumstances.

The Chairman of the NESG, Mr. Foluso Phillips, said the oil industry is prime to transparency, adding: “It is the root of a lot of things we express dissatisfaction with as long as corruption is concerned.”

Hard drug production suspects reject NDLEA’s interpreter

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HE arraignment of three Bolivians and two Nigerians charged with illegal production of Methamphetamine was stalled yesterday after the foreigners rejected an interpreter brought by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

They were charged at the

By Joseph Jibueze

Federal High Court, Lagos, before Justice Ibrahim Buba.

The judge fixed October 16 for their arraignment and nine days for trial.

Methamphetamine is a hard drug said to be stronger than cocaine, heroine and LSD.

•Get Oct 16 date The Bolivians are Rueben Ticono Jorge, Yhugo Chavaez Moreno and Yerko Artunduago Dorado.

The Nigerians are Basil Ikechukwu Uzoka and Uba Ubachukwu Collins.

Their arraignment was stalled due to an objection

raised by their lawyer, Benson Ndakara, against an interpreter brought by the NDLEA. Ndakara said his clients were not comfortable with NDLEA’s interpreter.

He pleaded that the matter be adjourned to enable the foreigners look for an interpreter.

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THE NATION FRIDAY JUNE 28, 2013

NEWS

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CBN appointments divide Senate

HE Senate was yesterday divided on the confirmation of the appointment of four non-executive members of the Board of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The division was based on geo-political zone consideration and representation.

Although those pencilled for confirmation including Muhammad Musa Kafarati (Northeast), Collons Chike Chikeluba (Southeast), Adaba Anthony Adeiza (Northcentral) and Ayuli Jemide (Southsouth) were confirmed, senators insisted that the federal character principle as enshrined in the constitution should be complied with in all appointments.

Senator Ganiyu Solomon (Lagos West) noted that

From: Onyedi Ojiabor,

Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

since the Southwest was not represented on the list of those nominated for appointment, the remaining slot should be reserved for the zone in the interest of equity and fair play.

But Senator Mohammed Goje (Gombe Central) reminded him that the Accountant-General of the Federation and the Permanent Secretary are members of the board.

He said the Northeast zone was always forgotten in terms of appointment.

Goje added that Kafarati appointed from the Northeast is qualified for the position, having served meritoriously in sensitive positions in the past.

Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (Oyo South) said the Accountant-General and the Permanent Secretary are members of the board due to the positions they hold.

He submitted that it would be wrong to say that they represent the Southwest in the board since they were not appointed as nonexecutive members of the board.

Senate Minority Leader George Akume said qualified people should be appointed to sensitive positions, such as the board of the CBN. He noted that in a country populated by professionals, efforts should be made to appoint the best.

Senator Smart Adeyemi (Kogi West), after observing the trend of the debate,

said the way out was for the Senate to amend the CBN Act to accommodate all geopolitical zones in appointments.

He noted that senators struggle to ensure that their geo-political zones are represented in appointment because of favouritism and nepotism, which characterise appointments.

Adeyemi said everyone knows that those in authority recruit only persons from their areas.

Senate President David Mark described the debate as “healthy”, adding that senators should speak because they recognise that the day of reckoning would come.

He said the Senate should ensure that every zone is represented in appointments.

He noted that there would be no end to the debate.

The same sentiments occurred in the confirmation of the secretary and members of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Messrs Michael Ebong, Uwasomba Udochukwu, Emmanuel Ibitolu and Dr. Ismaila Mohammed Dukku were confirmed as members of the EFCC, while Emmanuel Adegboyega Aremo was confirmed as member/secretary of the commission.

Mark congratulated the appointees and urged them to live up to expectation when they resume duty.

He told them not to disappoint the committees that screened them, the Senate and Nigerians.

Polys remained shut as ASUP strike continues •Students protest in Abeokuta From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi and Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

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OLYTECHNICS yesterday remained shut as the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), held at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, in a voice vote, demanded continuation of the strike.

It said it would not discontinue the three-month strike if the Federal Government did not honour the agreement it signed in 2010.

ASUP blamed the President Goodluck Jonathan-led government for the closure of the polytechnics.

It said government has failed to honour an agreement it entered into in 2010 and urged President Jonathan to intervene “now that things are still at an amenable level.”

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Prof.

Godwin Onu and the students pleaded with the NEC members to call off the strike, “as the Federal Government is ready to listen to the agitation.”

It said it would not call off the industrial action until the 12 points raised are resolved.

Students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta and Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro in Ogun State, yesterday blocked the four lanes of Abeokuta-SiunSagamu Road, trapping motorists, who wanted to leave or enter Abeokuta, the state capital.

For over two hours, travellers groaned as they remained at a spot, following a traffic jam. Many resorted to trekking.

The students, who barricaded the road leading to the Governor’s Office at Oke Mosan, Abeokuta with their buses, were protesting the nationwide strike embarked upon by polytechnic lecturers.

They said they embarked on the protest to appeal to the Ogun State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun to prevail on the lecturers and the Federal Government to resolve the matter.

• Chairperson, House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora, Abike Dabiri Erewa (second right), receiving documents from the organisers of the Badagry Festival, President Africa Renaissance Foundation, Babatunde Mesewaku (second left), Dr. Wanle Akinboboye and members of the committee, Iranola Akinlaja (left) and Mustafa Khabeeb, during the visit to the committee in Abuja... yesterday PHOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

$1.69m ‘fraud’: Ajudua to remain in prison

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AGOS lawyer and socialite, Chief Fred Ajudua, will remain in

•Court dismisses bail application

prison custody throughout his trial as a Lagos High Court, Ikeja yesterday dismissed his bail application.

Justice Joseph Oyewole said he was not convinced that Ajudua would not abscond if granted bail again.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Ajudua before the court presided over

by Justice Oyewole for allegedly defrauding two foreigners of $1.69 million.

Ajudua and an associate, Mr. Charles Orie, were charged with allegedly defrauding two Dutch businessmen, Messrs Remy Cina and Pierre Vijgen, of $1.69 million between July 1999 and September 2000.

medical report tendered by the accused showed that he was within the court’s jurisdiction on a particular day his matter came up, but failed to attend the proceedings.

He said it appeared that Ajudua was fit although medical report said he was suffering from a complicated ailment.

In view of this, the judge said the court had discretion to grant bail, which must be exercised judicially and judiciously.

“In totality, therefore, I am not persuaded that the accused will make himself available for trial if bail is granted.

“Counsel are to prepare for the resumption of trial from

By Adebisi Onanuga Delivering ruling on the bail application filed by Ajudua’s counsel, Mr. Allen Agbaka, Justice Oyewole held that the promise previously undertaken on his behalf by his counsel was not honoured.

He said Ajudua was granted permission to travel to India for medical treatment in 2005 and failed to appear before the court since then.

Justice Oyewole noted that counsel to Ajudua, Mr. Agbaka, also made no reference to the exact date he left the country, adding that his international passport was not tendered before the court between July 1999 and September 2000.

Justice Oyewole said the

‘Shehu of Borno to lead Fed Govt’s delegation to Hajj’

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HE Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Umar Garbai, has been appointed as the National Amirul Hajj and Leader of the Federal Government’s delegation to the 2013 Hajj.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, said this yesterday in Abuja at a stakeholders’ meeting on the 2013 Hajj operations organised by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

He said the appointment of Garbai was in line with the agreement that Hajj delegation

should always cut across the leadership of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).

Garbai is the NSCIA Deputy President.

“Therefore, another Amirul Hajj for the 2014 Hajj is expected to emerge from the southern or western part of the country,” the Sultan said.

He said with the 20 per cent reduction in the number of those to make up the Nigerian contingent to the 2013 Hajj, priority would be accorded first timers.

July 8 and it shall proceed on a day-to-day basis until the matter is concluded,” Justice Oyewole said.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) began the prosecution of Ajudua and co-defendant in 2003.

It was, however, halted in 2005 after Ajudua, who was on bail, absconded following which the trial judge revoked the bail that was granted him.

He re-appeared before the court on June 11 and has since been remanded in the prison custody by Justice Oyewole.

More Nigerians study in U.S., says Consul-General

By Evelyn Osagie

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ORE Nigerians study in the United States (US) than citizens of other African countries, the United States Consul-General, Jeff Hawkins, has said.

Speaking on the ties between Nigeria and the US, Hawkins said: “About 7,000 Nigerian students are studying in the United States.” This, he said, showed that Nigeria and the United States shared deep diplomatic ties that the Consulate- General Office intends to encourage.

Hawkins said besides the educational and exchange programmes, art promotion is another area in which the US is building cultural bridges with Nigeria.

He spoke when he hosted an American artist, Prof. Mimi Walford, whose parents once served as diplomats in Nigeria.

Mr. Hawkins said art is a major communication and peace tool, adding that bringing the American artist to Nigeria to meet the art community and students, in addition to showcasing the works of young artists, is geared towards building cultural bridges between the two countries.

He urged Nigerian politicians and the elite to borrow a leaf from Prof. Walford and her parents, who while in Nigeria, opened their homes every Thursday afternoon to exhibit the works of Osogbo artists.

Said he: “Like the cliché, ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’, art can provide a conscience to the society. It is a very powerful thing that can help right the ills and wrongs in the society and foster peace. Art can provide excitement, uplift and education.

“We are very happy to do what we can to encourage artists from our side. We’ve invited you to join us to honour an American artist Mimi Walford and to also appreciate and promote the works of young, outstanding Nigerian artists.”

•Hawkins

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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NEWS Lagos hands over 90 transformers to communities

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By Nneka Nwaneri

HE Lagos State Government has distributed 90 500KVA transformers worth N900 million to communities.

Commissioner for Rural Development Cornelius Ojelabi on Wednesday handed over the transformers to Community Development Associations (CDAs).

The beneficiaries include: Esan Ogbogun and Ogo Oluwa in Somolu Local Government; Wasimi in Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA); Adeniyi Oregunwa in Ikeja Local Government; Afurugunbin Ifedapo and Abanishe Agodo in Alimosho Local Government.

Ojelabi said 50 more transformers would be distributed soon.

The commissioner urged the CDAs to form Neighbourhood Watch groups to tighten security in their areas.

Residents of the benefitting communities said they have not had electricity for years.

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•Ekiti State Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu (left), her Osun State counterpart Mrs Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori (middle) and Lagos State Deputy Governor Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire at the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja ...yesterday

Film producers urge Lagos to ban piracy

HE Yoruba Film Producers’ and Marketers’ Association has urged the Lagos State House of Assembly to make a law banning hawking of pirated Yoruba films.

The association’s Chairman Mr. Toyin Usman

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spoke yesterday when the organisation visited the Assembly.

He said: “Activities of pirates have continued to affect our business negatively. Alaba market has been turned into a place where all sorts of criminal activities are perpetrated and the state government needs to address it.

“Sometimes this year, over 197 dubbing machines were seized at the market and taken to Panti Police Station, yet, the pirates are back on the street.”

The Assembly’s spokesman, Mr. Segun Olulade, said the House would address piracy.

400 Ekiti residents get free surgery

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VER 400 Ekiti residents are undergoing free surgeries at three health facilities in the state, courtesy of the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration.

The beneficiaries were referred for surgery during the seventh edition of the administration’s free health mission in April and last month’s free cancer screening.

Commissioner for Health Prof. Olusola Fasubaa said the beneficiaries are being treated at the State Specialist Hospital, Ikere; General Hospital, Ijan and the Opthamological Centre at the University of Ado-Ekiti Teaching Hospital.

Fasubaa said 200 of them are being treated for hernia, appendicitis and other illnesses requiring general corrective surgery, 100 for cancer-related ailments and 100 for cataract and other eye ailments.

He said the medical intervention was aimed at improving public health.

The commissioner urged the beneficiaries to use their

PDP member lauds senator’s free health mission

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MEMBER of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Mr. Gbenga Dada Giwa, has described the free health mission sponsored by Senator Babafemi Ojudu (Ekiti Central) as a “novel programme”.

Giwa, whose father is a PDP chieftain in EfonAlaaye, said he was surprised that opposition members were not excluded from the programme.

Giwa is the brother-in-law of a former representative of Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Mr. Femi Kila.

He said his father, who was treated at the Efon venue of the free health mission, “brought the good news home”.

Giwa said he decided to verify his father’s claims because he did not believe a PDP chieftain could benefit from a programme organised by an Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) lawmaker.

According to him, such could not have happened in a PDP administration.

Giwa, who went to the venue of the mission with his daughter, said he was shocked by the drugs regularly and adhere strictly to the advice of their doctors on diet and lifestyle.

He said the eighth edition of the free health mission

kindness of the doctors and ACN officials.

He said: “Though the achievements of the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration in all sectors are clearly visible, I still find it difficult to believe that opposition members are allowed to benefit from this health mission.

“By this, the Fayemi administration has demonstrated that it is above the usual pettiness associated with Nigerian politics. I urge them to continue this way. This is far better than throwing money around, which my party is known for. Programmes like this touch the lives of those who cannot go to beg for money at the homes of politicians.”

Giwa described the “throwing around of money” by politicians as “barbaric, debasing and non-conforming with good governance”.

He said with what he saw at the mission’s venue, he would shred his PDP membership card and cross over to the ACN. Giwa said: “There is nothing like ACN or PDP members here today. My father is a PDP chieftain. He has come here and he has been treated. As for me, I am through with the PDP.”

would hold next month in 13 constituencies.

Mr. Adesola Otokiti from Ilupeju-Ekiti, Pa Sola Ademilua from Awo-Ekiti

and Mrs. Victoria Oluwafemi from Ado-Ekiti, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, thanked the government for coming to their aid.

Amosun: Nigeria spends N1.3tr yearly GUN State Governor on food importation Ibikunle Amosun has

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decried Nigeria’s dependence on food importation.

He said the country spends N1.3 trillion yearly on the importation of wheat, rice, sugar and fish, even though it has the capacity to produce them in abundance.

The governor spoke yesterday in Abeokuta, the state capital, at the opening of the 40th National Council on Agriculture and Rural Development. The theme of the programme was: “From farm to the table: Developing agriculture value chains to create wealth and jobs and ensure food security”.

Amosun said food importation has “harmed” the nation’s economy, adding that it “fuels domestic inflation, displaces local production and creates unemployment”.

He said his administration has set aside over 20,000 hectares of land for agricultural

investors at a minimal cost.

Amosun said the government has bought farming equipment, which are rented out to farmers at subsidised rates to encourage mechanised farming.

On the Model Farm Estate, he said: “On completion, the pilot project will provide direct employment for over 300

F

participants and indirect employment for about 2,000 workers, who will focus on the production of eggs, fresh and smoked fish, arable crops, orchard, fruits and leafy vegetables.

“The Model Estate will be surrounded by commercial farms on over 2,000 hectares of land.”

•Amosun

Fashola, Aregbesola, Amosun, Ribadu for Ramadan lecture

ORMER Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the Chief Missioner, NASFAT Worldwide, Alhaji Abdullahi Akinbode, will deliver the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) Annual Ramadan Lecture on Sunday at the Main Auditorium of the university.

The theme of the lecture is: “Corruption and Justice in Nigeria”.

The occasion will be chaired by Mallam Yusuf Alli (SAN). Expected on the occasion are Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, Ogun State Gover-

nor Ibikunle Amosun and Senator Ganiyu Solomon.

Ribadu will speak on “Corruption and Administration of Justice in Nigeria: Agenda for Reform”.

Akinbode will speak on “Eliminating Endemic Corruption from the Polity: Islamic Panacea”.

UMA spokesman Abdul-Razaq Asaju said this year’s pre-Ramadan lecture is the 19th in the series.

Asaju said six PhD and 12 Master’s students would be awarded scholarships.

Free medical screening will be provided at the event by the Islamic Medical Association of Nigeria (IMAN) and Islamic business fair.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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NEWS

•Fashola (middle); his wife and Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) Dame Emmanuella (third right); Senator Tinubu (third left); Vice-Chairman, COWLSO, Mrs. Ikuforiji (second right); Alhaja Jakande (right) and other COWLSO members cutting the governor’s 50th birthday cake during the inauguration...yesterday.

Fashola inaugurates COWLSO’s retirement villa

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RETIREMENT resort built by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) for retired public servants was inaugurated yesterday in Lagos by Governor Babatunde Fashola.

Fashola said only the spirit of continuity in the public service could guarantee national development.

The governor’s audience at the opening of the firstever retirees’ resort at Lekki, Lagos Island, included: Alhaja Abimbola Jakande, wife of former Governor Lateef Jakande; Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central District) and a representative of Mrs. Obafunmilayo Johnson, among others.

According to Fashola, many laudable projects had gone moribund across the country because of lack of continuity.

He said rather than com-

•Senator Tinubu hails successor for keeping vision alive plete on-going projects, successors often prefer to initiate their own pet projects.

Fashola singled out the Centre of Excellence as a state that respects the culture of continuity.

He said: “These ideas are fundamental; they are important because in our lifetime, we have witnessed instances where projects were abandoned by successors only because they did not start them.

We have witnessed instances where the acquisition of land, as in this case, ended up in court.”

Noting that the event being celebrated was the dedication of a building, Fashola said the underlying issue was an idea that gave birth to the edifice.

He said: “Although we have come to dedicate and

commemorate a building, I think what we have come to dedicate and commemorate today actually is a greater cause - the idea that gave birth to this building, an idea that was resting in the heart and in the mind of the very First Lady that Lagos had when it became a state, Mrs. Johnson.

“That idea is now represented by the word COWLSO and that is why we all have gathered here to celebrate.”

He hailed Senator Tinubu for reviving and following up on the idea 40 years after.

Fashola said: “Of course, it is the same cause, the same idea to continue with what somebody has started, to suppress ego, control vision and run with good ideas, irrespective of where they originate, from that has enabled

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caring hearts have been demonstrated in the many projects you have done for the young people of Lagos.

You have been a fortress and tower of strength for women.”

Senator Tinubu said the vision to build the Villa originated from her love for old people and the thought to find a relaxation centre for them.

Thanking the governor’s wife, Dame Emmanuella Fashola, for bringing the vision to fruition, Senator Tinubu expressed joy that the idea conceived many years ago was not abandoned but implemented beyond her vision and expectation.

Dame Fashola said the project “was conceived and executed to provide a venue for our active citizens, who

‘Fayemi, others responsible for Christ’s School’s growth’

Jonathan, Lagos ACN hail Fashola at 50 From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola as he celebrates his 50th birthday today.

In a statement yesterday by his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, the president felicitated with Fashola and prayed God to grant him more years of commendable service to the people.

The statement reads: "On behalf of my family, the government and people of Nigeria, I express warm felicitations to you on the landmark occasion of your 50th birthday.

"As you deservedly celebrate this glorious day, it is my prayer that God, who has richly prospered you and ordered your steps in the past half century, will continue to bless you with good health and fulfillment in the many more years of worthy service ahead of you."

The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Lagos State also congratulated the governor. It said Fashola's 50 years have been well spent in the service of his fatherland.

In a statement by its spokesman, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, ACN said: "We salute Fashola as he marches on with the template of good governance and redefines the sphere and scope of good governance in a badly governed country.

"We salute his courage, dexterity, sense of purpose and discipline in governing a complex, heavily populated and sophisticated state like Lagos, with its potentials and challenges.

"We salute the vision with which he creates a state that will not only serve the present but deal with the challenges of the future. We salute his competence in working out an effective state that handles the problems and anxieties of the bulk of Nigeria's youths and employable, yet unemployed population.

"We hail Fashola's proactive role in equipping a mega city with a capacity to absolve over 50 per cent of Nigeria's productive sector and fend for their dependents in other parts of Nigeria.

"At 50, we believe he is still at an early stage of his service to Nigeria. We see him as a rare gift, acknowledged by Nigerians across party lines and we believe men like him hold the key to the country's progress."

your current chairperson to run with an idea she did not start and deliver it to fruition.

“Clearly, continuity of ideas and projects has become a way of life in our state and our citizens are better for it. Therefore, we must salute the women of Lagos.

“So, while this building will age, while it will need to be maintained, while another first lady will come and say I want a 20-storey retirement villa, the underlying idea that gave birth to this will never fade.”

Mrs. Johnson, who is COWLSO’s Grand Matron, expressed joy that the Committee has grown by leaps and bounds.

She said: “Since 2004, COWLSO has come of age in looking after children. Your

have contributed to the development of our country and particularly Lagos State, to engage in healthy recreational activities in a conducive environment.”

She paid glowing tributes to individuals and corporate organisations, who contributed to making the Villa a reality.

The highlight of the event was the planting of 50 trees donated by COWLSO by the governor, the first and former first ladies, wife of the House of Assembly speaker Mrs. Mayowa Ikuforiji; State Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) , Chief Henry Ajomale and his wife, Adetoun .

At the occasion were: House of Representatives’ member Yakub Balogun and representative of the wive of the Ogun State governor and members of the State Executive Council, among others.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

•Fayemi

E

LDER statesman Chief Deji Fasuan has attributed the development of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, to its old students, including Governor Kayode Fayemi.

I

Fasuan said the school would have deteriorated if not for the contributions of the old students in the last 30 years.

He spoke at a news conference on the school’s 80th anniversary.

Fasuan lamented the “entire neglect of the school by the old Ondo State”.

At the news conference were old students, including Very Rev. Dr. John Aina, Dr. Ade Fasanmade, Chief Francis Daramola, Mrs. Idowu Ogunrinde (Principal, Christ

Girls’ School) and Chief Olusola Bayode, President, Christ’s School Alumni Worldwide.

Fasuan, who retired as permanent secretary in the old Ondo State, said: “Individual alumni members have built classrooms and sank boreholes in the school. There is a member who spent N20 million over a period of time on various projects in the school.

“Even Fayemi, before he became governor, gave the school a giant size power generator and renovated some classrooms. The situation was worse when we were in the old

Ondo State, when the school was virtually neglected.”

Fasanmade, who is the chairman of the home branch of the association, said the alumni was not considering the return of the school to missionaries.

He said: “If improvement in quality teaching and learning would be possible through the return of the school, we accept it. But we are not looking at the return of the school as a singular means to achieve this.

“The anniversary would feature presentation of awards of excellence/honour to seven monarchs who are alumni members and others.”

Lagos to restrict access to General Hospitals

N an effort to promote regular use of its Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), the Lagos State Government may restrict access to General Hospitals.

Governor Babatunde Fashola spoke yesterday at the inauguration of Eredo Primary Healthcare Centre in Epe Constituency II. Explaining that PHCs have been revitalised to cater for patients’ needs, Fashola said: “Very soon, no doctor will attend to you in the General Hospital except you have a referral note from a primary healthcare centre. What you seek in the United Kingdom (UK) is now here with you, so you do not need to travel long distance anymore.”

He urged residents to utilise the facility, stressing that it is equipped with facilities and qualified personnel to diagnose several ailments, including hypertension, cancer and diabetes.

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

The governor said: “What we seek to achieve is to build a referral healthcare system that moves from a robust and intensive grassroots healthcare, starting from 24-hour service delivery at the various local governments to General Hospitals and to teaching hospitals.

“This is the only way we can fully integrate, redistribute and optimise our assets. This model has succeeded in every part of the world. We want to replicate it here to make healthcare a local success.”

He said the Eredo Primary Healthcare Centre is the fifth of the 24-hour Comprehensive PHC Flagship Centre to be inuagurated.

The others are Iga-Iduguran, Mosan-Okunola, Ajara and Ejire Flagship PHCs.

BUSINESS

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

ICPC orders reversal of NPA’s T N138m contract HE Independent Cor rupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has ordered the recall of an Advance Payment Guarantee (APG) of $867,242.25 (about N138, 758,760.00) granted Abhal Ventures Limited by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

The commission said the APG of $867,242.25 representing 15 per cent of the contract sum is to be refunded following the Bureau of Public Procurement’s (BPP’s) recommendation that the contract awarded to the firm be terminated and re-awarded to Marina Energy Limited.

The decision to recall the APG, according information, followed the investigation into the award of the contract

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From Nduka Chiejina, Abuja

for the construction and delivery of 100 Nos. Medium Density ‘R’ Class Polyethylene (MDPE) channel marking buoys to the concerned firm.

The BPP, it was gathered, argued that based on its investigation, which was later forwarded to ICPC that the “rejection of Messrs Marina Energy Limited bid in the tender sum of $3, 574, 216.00 by the NPA solely on the basis of deviation from the NPA In-House Estimate in the sum of $5,956,282.00 is not correct” According to the letter, “the

BPP has consistently advised Ministries, Departments and Agencies against the use of deviation from in-House Estimate as the basis to disqualify bid, rather, unit rate comparison, which is more transparent though painstaking analysis has always been advocated by BPP to determine the reasonableness or unreasonableness of a financial bid.”

It was revealed that at the Financial Bids opening, Marina Energy submitted the “lowest responsive bid” of $3,574,216.80, while the eventual winner submitted a bid of $5,781,615.00.

According to a letter issued

and signed by ICPC on June 17, 2013, the Commission stated that “during the course of investigation, there was no evidence of the recall of the APG from the issuing Bank. You are therefore required to recall the APG and forward the evidence of this to the Commission.”

The ICPC’s directive came on heels of a petition sent to President Goodluck Jonathan

by Messrs Marina Energy Limited, dated November 20, 2012, wherein it alleged “NPA’s reckless disregard for due process and prescribed procedures as outlined in the Public Procurement Act, 2007 and its complicity in ripping off the Federal Government of Nigeria to the tune $2, 207,398.20.”

Mobile phone subscriptions grow by 6.2m

HE telecoms industry has continued to expe rience growth as about 6.2 million new subscribers joined the network in the first quarter of this year.

This translates to an increase of 7.2 per cent, latest industry data from Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has shown.

This latest addition pushes the current total active mobile subscriptions in the country up from 113.1 million at the end of December, 2012 to 119.3 million at the end of April.

Active telephone subscriptions increased from 113.1 million to 114.4 million, 116.6 million, 117.2 million and 119.3 million in January, February, March and April re-

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

RATES Inflation -11.7% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending -22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $43.5b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

•Active users now 119.3m

By Lucas Ajanaku

spectively.

The data showed that total connected telephone lines in the country now stands at 164.8 million at the end of April, 2013, having increased from 161.9 million, 159.8 million and 154.5 million in January, February and March in the first quarter.

The data further revealed an increase in teledensity (defined as the percentage of connected lines in relation to the population at a given period of time and its growth is proportional to the growth in subscriber base) from 80.85 per cent in December 2012 to 81.78 per cent, January; 83.29 per cent in February; 83.77 per cent in March and 85.25 per cent at the end of April, in the quarter under review.

While the data also showed that installed capacity reached 237.4 million as at April 2013, it was 237.3 million; 226.6 million and 226.6 million in

January, February and March respectively.

Installed capacity, according to the regulator, is the total number of telephone lines, which telecoms networks have built their network capacity to accommodate at a particular point in time.

NCC noted that telecoms firms continue to invest heavily on network expansion to be able to accommodate more subscribers on their networks.

With this capacity, it is believed that the network can accommodate 72.6 million additional subscribers, since total connected lines is still around 164.8 million, of which 119.3 million are active, thus suggesting that the operators have not optimised the capacity of the network.

As it has always been, the data reflected that the increase in subscribers numbers came from Global System for Mobile (GSM) communications comprising MTN, Globacom, Airtel and Etisalat.

SEC finalises new capital for market operators

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ECURITIES and Ex change Commission (SEC) will soon announce a new minimum capital base for all capital market operators, the apex regulator said yesterday.

At a media briefing after the Capital Market Committee (CMC)’s quarterly meeting in Lagos, director general, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms Arunma Oteh, said the Commission was concluding the new capital requirements for market operators.

Market operators include stockbroking firms, issuing houses, fund managers, custodians, trustees, and investment advisory firms, share registration companies, corporate secretaries, depository, securities exchange, venture capital, receiving bankers and underwriters among others.

The Nation had exclusively reported the country’s assessment of securities regulation in Nigeria by the International

By Taofik Salako

Monetary Fund (IMF), which supported increase in capital of broker-dealers.

The report-Assessment of the level of implementation of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) Principles in Nigeria, noted that due to the weak financial condition of many broker-dealers and limited ongoing monitoring, new risks may arise and remain unaddressed.

“The SEC should promptly implement a major overhaul of the capital requirements applied to broker-dealers, by raising their initial capital requirements and requiring them to maintain sufficient risk-based capital on an ongoing basis,” the report stated.

Oteh said the board of SEC has indicated the need to expedite action on the implementation of dematerialisation of share records and documents.

While GSM networks increased combined subscriptions from 111.1 million in January to 116.3 million at the end of April, the sick Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) operators decreased from 2.8 million in January to 2.6 million in April while the moribund fixed wired/ wireless operators also declined from 410,664 lines to 396,939 lines.

•Dangote

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ANGOTE Cement has assured patrons of its products of stability in the price of cement without compromising quality.

It said the decision is to create reasonable profit for all categories of stakeholders in the building industry, especially block moulders.

The Group Executive Director, Sales and Marketing, Knut Ulvemoen, gave the assurance while speaking at a one-day sensitisation workshop in Abuja for block makers in the FederalCapitalTerritory (FCT) and its environs, organised by Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and sponsored by the firm.

Knut decried the prevalence of substandard concrete blocks and explained that some block makers in an attempt to miximize profit ended up not using the right blend of cement and sand thus causing defects in structures.

He explained that because of the sensitive nation of the construction and building in-

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NLNG is one of the biggest success stories in our country. From what I am told, the company has invested $13 billion so far since inception, and has become a pacesetter in terms of revenue generation for the government.

-Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga

Investors eye 80% of NIPP equity

ROSPECTIVE investors have indicated interest in the purchase of 80% equity in the 10 National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) power plants, Vice President Namadi Sambo has said.

Sambo disclosed this at an investment forum in New York yesterday. He said all the three tiers of the government and the private sector in Nigeria are collaborating in the privatisation process of the 10 NIPP power plants being jointly offered for sale by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC). This according to him, is to ensure that the same level of transparency in the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) privatisation is replicated.

Represented by Governor Gabriel Suswan of Benue State, the Vice President was quoted as saying that the privatisation of the PHCN successor companies is one of the most open and transparent privatisation transaction processes in recent history.

A statement from the BPE Head, Public Communica-

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

tions, Mr. Chigbo Anichebe, said Sambo pointed out that the PHCN transaction, “was a highly transparent process and government has assured investors that the same level of transparency will be replicated”.

The Vice President noted that if Nigeria is going to be among the 20 largest economies in the world by the year 2020, the right steps must be taken, assuring that the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan is committed to ensuring that those right steps are taken going forward in implementing the Transformation Agenda.

He noted that the privatisation of the 10 NIPP power plants is the first time the private sector, the National Assembly, Federal, State and Local governments are joining forces to ensure an allinclusive transaction process.

Vice President Sambo noted that to engender global interest, all the relevant stakeholders in the sector were in New York to interact with prospective investors and address their questions and concerns.

Dangote promises to lift block makers dustry, inappropriate mix of all the materials would have negative effect on the structures, noting that this was the major cause of building collapse.

According to him, Dangote Cement does not compromise its product quality and would therefore support all relevant agencies to ensure protection from poor quality blocks and sancrete, adding that Dangote cement has highest quality anywhere in the world.

He assured the block makers not to succumb to the urge to reduce the qantity of cement in their mix for block with the hope of saving more money pointing out that whioever buys less quality blocks would not patronize makers of such blocks at another time.

In his paper, Director General of SON, Dr. Joseph Odumodu who was represented by Mr. Nelson Adebiyi, Regional Coordinator of SON said the the Federal Government’s transformation agenda coupled with the SON’s policy of zero tolerance to substandard products underlined the need to sensitize block molders to operate in conformity with the national standard.

He stated that the benchmark for fair competitiveness is standard which takes into account the customers’ satisfaction.

Said he:The organization has elaborated standards to ensure quality in block molding and promote safety in our building sector and also to en-

sure that block molders operate to the international standard. He highlighted the standards and codes elaborated by the SON as Standrad for Sancrete blocks Part one Non loading bearing; Standard for precast concrete, Pavement blocks and standards for prestressed and reinforced Concrete poles for transmission and distribution lines.

Odumodu then commended Dangote Cement for its interest in supporting efforts geared towards ensuring quality in the building industry noting that the readiness to sponsor the sensitization workshop was a demonstration of this.

Also making a presentation on the Causes and Remedies for Sub-standard Sancrete blocks, Johnson Olaniyi said the issue of substandard sancrete blocks should be of concern to all and sundry and should be discouraged in the interest of all.

He said visitations to locations where blocks are molded revealed a lot of challenges facing the block makers which he said contributed to a large extent on the substandard blocks produced and part of the causes of building collapse.

Olaniyi identified lack of functional tools; operational expenses; lack of basic technical knowledge; lack of basic raw material and lack of adequate training and said some of these and a combination of some generate a situation where production of sub standard blocks is seen as an attractive option.

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COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

To Russia with whores

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•The wave of Nigerian prostitutes takes a new dimension

ESPERATION is the name of the game and its guiding principle.

Ironically, though, this is a most unprincipled way of going about the business of living; that is, speaking about a new trend, the trafficking of Nigerian girls to Russia for prostitution. However, the corrupt ones are not only the traffickers; the girls who yield as well as their backers are equally tainted.

This alarming development publicised

by Nigeria’s ambassador to Russia, Asam Asam, betrays the increasing surrender to base motives by the country’s citizens. Speaking with the Europe Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Berlin, Germany, Asam lamented, “The major consular challenge we face in Moscow is the influx of trafficked persons from Nigeria.”

According to him, “No fewer than 200 girls are trafficked every month, and we have many of them exposed to danger…We have deported over 240 girls since 2012. You will be shocked at the extent of resistance from the girls.”

No doubt, Asam’s comments are statistically significant and should be of concern to the government. The information not only highlights a new dimension to sex-trade travellers originating from the country; it also raises unavoidable questions. Who could these girls be, in terms of ethnicity, educational background and socio-economic situation? Why would they succumb to the temptation to make money as sex workers in Russia, despite the hurdles and risks? Or were they innocently lured to that country?

More puzzling was Asam’s clarification.

He said: “These girls are not tourists, students or government officials, yet they are given visas from the Russian Embassy in Abuja.” Evidently, to go by this oddity, there must be a protection racket in place, which is highly deplorable. Of course, the most effective strategy to arrest such undesirable exit is to stop the would-be travellers at the departure stage and break the trafficking rings. In this context, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (NAPTIP) has its work well defined and should make every effort to fulfill its objectives.

It is remarkable that Russia is now seen as the new destination by these desperadoes, marking a shift from Western Europe, which has reportedly witnessed a welcome decline in human trafficking from Nigeria, following strict laws on illegal migration and joint efforts by Nigeria and the governments of countries in the region to curb the crime. This current swing to Eastern Europe must not be tolerated, and all the parties concerned at the governmental level must move urgently to address the situation.

This is certainly the kind of export that Nigeria does not need; it not only attracts negative publicity, it also gives a wrong image of the country and its citizens. It is heart-warming, though, Asam’s observation that there were a good number of other Nigerians living in Russia as students and professionals in various fields.

However, although this cannot be a justification, there is no denying the fact that tough socio-economic policies and condi-

tions in the country play a significant role in human trafficking, particularly for sex-trade purposes. In the specific context, it represents an odious submission of body and soul, which presumably can only be motivated by dire conditions. It is a shame that some of these girls who go abroad for sex-work have parental backing, according to Asam.

He said: “I spoke to the mother of one of the girls and she said her daughter should remain in Moscow and survive the ordeal.”

While the citizens, no doubt, have a personal duty to live on the right side of public morality, it goes without saying that government cannot abandon the responsibility to create a space for decent living for the people.

‘This current swing to Eastern Europe must not be tolerated, and all the parties concerned at the governmental level must move urgently to address the situation. This is certainly the kind of export that Nigeria does not need; it not only attracts negative publicity, it also gives a wrong image of the country and its citizens’

Okiro as PSC boss

•Since his appointment is unfortunately a fait accompli, we expect him to rise up to the challenge

S

ENATE President David Mark made the appropriate remark when he asked the chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Paulinus Nwagwu, what he thought former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Mike Okiro could do to improve the police force as a Police Service Commission (PSC) boss, that he had no opportunity of doing when he was IGP. This should be the spirit; unfortunately, the Senate eventually confirmed Okiro’s appointment for the police service commission without satisfactorily answering this question. Okiro was IGP from 2007 to 2009.

President Goodluck Jonathan had in May forwarded the names of nominees of the seven-member PSC to the Senate for consideration, and the Senate, in turn,

‘However, now that President Jonathan has characteristically foisted Mr. Okiro on the nation, in cahoots with the Senate, the least we can do is to admonish him not to repeat his lackluster performance as inspector-general in the PSC. The police need at this point in time not an establishment man but someone who is pragmatic, full of ideas and is ready to run the commission in a business unusual manner’

referred the matter to its committee on police affairs for screening. Five other nominees, namely the retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Yakubu Mohammed representing North West Zone; Hon. Justice Olufunke Adekeye (South West); Aisha Larai Tukur (North East); Mrs. Comfort Obi (South East) and Chief Torngee Gem Toranyiin (North Central) were also confirmed as members of the commission. The only person whose nomination was rejected by the Senate was Dr Otive Igbuzor, a human rights activist representing the South South geo-political zone.

From proceedings at the screening, it would appear that the senators were swayed by Nwagwu’s assertion that Okiro would bring his experience to bear on the commission whereas they should have been more persuaded by Senator Mark’s question that they left unanswered. When we talk of experience, we talk of it as if it is something esoteric. The point is; it is not a question of how long but how well. If therefore we are talking of experience, we should be talking in the context of the value that a person in position of authority added to the system while in office.

We wonder why our senators behave this way when it comes to confirming appointments into very important positions and institutions. Sadly, such shoddy manner of ratifying appointments did not start with Okiro, it has been like that for long and it is part of the reasons why Nigerians have not felt the impact of the democratic government as they should in the last 14 years. It could not have been better when senators merely ask people who

should have been thoroughly grilled for public offices to ‘take a bow and leave’.

In the case of Mr. Okiro, there are sundry allegations, some bordering on corruption. Not only that, contrary to constitutional provisions that a member of certain bodies, including the PSC, “shall not be required to belong to a political party,” it cannot be denied that Okiro is a member of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), having once sought the party’s senatorial ticket for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Moreover, he had chaired the security committee at the party’s convention and is also a former security adviser to the PDP national chairman. Given these foggy circumstances, and perhaps more that we cannot recollect immediately, we would have expected the Senate to grill him to determine his qualification, both in character and in competence, for the position of PSC chairman.

However, now that President Jonathan has characteristically foisted Mr. Okiro on the nation, in cahoots with the Senate, the least we can do is to admonish him not to repeat his lackluster performance as inspector-general in the PSC. The police need at this point in time not an establishment man but someone who is pragmatic, full of ideas and is ready to run the commission in a business unusual manner. There are so many challenges besetting the police and, considering the security issues we presently have in the country, only a proactive police service commission that is ready to break completely from the past can bring about the needed changes in the police force.

Obama can’t skirt tough issues in Africa

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RESIDENT OBAMA’S tour of Africa this week has been defined as much by the countries he is skipping as those he is visiting.

Among those excluded from the itinerary are Kenya, the homeland of Mr. Obama’s father, where the newly elected president and vice president are under indictment by the International Criminal Court; and Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, which recently was accused by the State Department of “gross human rights violations” in its campaign against Islamic extremists.

Mr. Obama instead is visiting South Africa, whose iconic leader Nelson Mandela appears near death; and two small, untroubled nations, Senegal and Tanzania. That’s in keeping with the themes of the trip outlined by the White House: the promotion of U.S. trade and investment in a continent where economic growth is picking up and support for democratic institutions. Mr. Obama also wants to encourage a new generation of African leaders, though he may find himself eulogizing, in Mr. Mandela, one of the greats of the past.

As African leaders frequently note, the president’s outreach is overdue. It has been four years since his previous, 20-hour visit to Africa as president, a stretch during which he has made multiple visits to Asia and Latin America. During that time China has made a major push to extend its influence in Africa and, in some important ways, has succeeded: At $200 billion, its annual trade with the continent is twice that of the United States. During regular visits by its presidents, including one by new leader Xi Jinping in March, Beijing has been showering governments with billions in aid, with no apparent political strings.

Mr. Obama can’t match that largesse, but he could, directly or otherwise, draw distinctions between the forms of engagement offered by China and the United States. The president will hold an interactive town hall meeting in South Africa, something Mr. Xi would never hazard.

Mr. Obama’s support for democracy offers an opportunity for contrast with China’s unqualified backing for strongmen like Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe and Omar Hassan al-Bashir in Sudan.

What the president should not do is use his tame schedule to dodge the continent’s toughest problems. These include not only lingering dictatorships but the rise of Islamic terrorist groups in northern Africa and continuing conflicts in Sudan and the Congo, which Mr. Xi visited. In an interview earlier this year, Mr. Obama wondered why the United States should consider intervention in Syria, rather than Congo.

Since then, his administration successfully cosponsored a U.N. Security Council resolution that mandated the dispatch of a 3,000-strong U.N. “intervention brigade,” including troops from South Africa and Tanzania, to carry out offensive operations against Congolese rebels.

That was the right call. Perhaps Mr. Obama can now explain why he believes such outside intervention is merited in Congo, but not in Syria.

– Washington Post

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: The Lagos State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria salutes the Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) as he attains the golden age of 50. His 50 years have been well spent in the service of fatherland and the country will always reflect the laudable landmarks he had brought to re-define governance in Lagos in generations to come.

Fashola entrenched noble values in the years he spent as the Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor and mostly in the six years he has steered the ship of Lagos. His tribe needs to be replicated in every state and at the federal level for Nigeria to start real and meaningful progress march, in the face of

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Tribute to Fashola at 50 the seemingly insurmountable challenges that strut the country.

We salute Fashola, as he marches on with the template of good governance and redefines the sphere and scope of good governance in a badly governed country as Nigeria. We salute his courage, dexterity, sense of purpose and discipline in governing a complex,

heavily populated and sophisticated state like Lagos, with its potentials and challenges. We salute the vision with which he creates a state that will not only serve the present but deal with the challenges of the future. We salute his competence in working out an effective state that handles the problems and anxieties of the bulk of

Nigeria’s youths and employable, yet unemployed population. We hail Governor Fashola’s proactive role in equipping out a mega city with a capacity to absorb the over 50 per cent of Nigeria’s productive sector and fend for their dependents in other parts of Nigeria.

We cannot but hail him as he con-

not to be a problem if the village heads and kingmakers defend and insist on the truth.

It is against the fore-going that the on-going intervention of Governor Okorocha is eliciting public acclamation. This public ovation is hinged on the fact that the state cannot be considered peaceful and stable when many of her autonomous communities are engulfed in varying degrees of ezeship disputes.

The action of the governor has proven that he knows where the shoe is pinching the people. That he decided to handle it himself conveys in an unmistakable terms, the im-

portance he attaches to the exercise.

It is an obvious fact that most of the tussles are by-products of flagrant abuses, violations or neglect of the tradition and constitution of the communities. One of the reasons which probably made past state administrations reluctant to get directly involved was the fear of being misunderstood. For Governor Okorocha, it does not matter, what matters is the end result. He therefore deserves our kudos for his courageous decision to tackle the problem headlong irrespective of the insinuation the action will generate.

This mind set tallies with the views

of a British Political scientist, Harold Stephenson that, “Great are the leaders who are undeterred by the distractions and encumbrances on their way because they are strongly convinced that accomplishing their mission will give humanity a leap forward”.

Governor Okorocha has given broad indication of how far he can go to make Imo State better; so far he has given many reasons in practical terms why we should see him as a governor on whom we are well pleased.

• Jude Okeke Owerri

Ezeship tussles and Imo communities

IR: Imo state Governor, Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha has once again proven to be a practical and resultoriented leader by his thoughtful decision to wield into the long standing ezeship tussles in the various autonomous communities in Imo State. It is a common knowledge that before this time, autonomous communities were reduced to battle grounds by powerful individuals who desired the ezeship stools by fair or foul means. As a result of the unhealthy situation, the peace, unity and development of the affected autonomous communities were swept off by cross-litigations, factionalisations, division of the town unions and mud-slinging by the parties to the disputes.

The unsavory state of affairs has dealt a heavy blow on the self-help development spirit of our people by wasting their resources which would have been vital for development on the tussles. The implication of this sorry situation is that village heads, king makers and other traditional have either lost a sense of direction or compromised themselves for pecuniary gains. This feeling is based on the fact that the process of selecting an Eze is duly provided in the constitution of every community, hence, the issue of who should slightly be a traditional ruler need

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tinues to make indelible improvements in all sectors of the governance of Lagos. At 50, we believe he is still at the early stages of his service to Nigeria. We see him as a rare gift, acknowledged by all Nigerians across party lines and we believe that men like him hold the key to the country’s progress at a time the country is overwhelmed by feeling of hopelessness occasioned by bad, incompetent and corrupt leadership, especially at the centre. We see Fashola as nature’s rare gift the country needs to further tap to engage and fruitfully resolve the multifarious problems besetting the nation. We see Fashola as a positive role model the nation needs to export and indeed popularize among its youths and coming generations for the resuscitation of the flagging country.

Lagos ACN feels proud of his achievements and holds it as a testimonial of the commitment of the party to improving the lives of Lagosians and Nigerians in general. We see him as a very positive brand the country needs to improve on the ever worsening face of governance in Nigeria. We therefore recommend him for higher roles at the national level, after his service in Lagos for we still insist that only the best is good for Nigeria.

• Joe Igbokwe.

Publicity Secretary.

Lagos ACN.

Ogun and the quest for food security

IR:Despite the fact that Nigeria is blessed with vast agricultural potentials and readily available human resources for its exploitation, the country is still a far cry from guaranteeing food security for the populace. Also, numerous findings have shown that Nigeria’s agricultural sector can sufficiently be the driving force of its economy. Hitherto, the country’s GDP still depends on money made through crude oil while past governments at the federal level are yet to match their words with action in terms of developing the

agricultural sector.

The present administration in Ogun State led by Senator Ibikunle Amosun has taken giant steps to boost large scale mechanized farming in the state. This resolve can seen in the installation of two sets of rice processing equipment at Moloko-Asipa in Obafemi Owode area of the State; the resultant effect of this move is that there will be a great increase in rice production in the state and at the same time creating employment opportunities for people living in such areas Earlier this year, the administra-

tion acquired agricultural land clearing equipment and tractors worth about five billion naira for farmers in the state. Similarly, over 500 metric tons of different brands of fertilizer were procured and distributed to farmers in order to enhance the cultivation of crops in the state. It is believed that this will serve as succor to farmers who have previously found it difficult to procure these equipments for use in their farms, also increasing their farm output and productivity Another programme worthy of

mention is the cassava revolution embarked on by the current administration. About 25, 000 bundle of cassava cutting was distributed freely to farmers across the state to enhance the production of high yielding cassava for consumption and also exportation purposes.

These are positive indications of how the Amosun-led administration is gradually positioning the state as a front-runner in the quest for of food security.

• Bimpe Amos Abeokuta, Ogun State

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013 16

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COMMENTS

Niggers with attitude (3) • (Portrait of the Nigerian as a ‘black’ ant)

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IFE as a freeman is simply unthinkable for a Nigerian nigger. It’s a dream come true and yet an overwhelming reality which bodes too devastatingly for his kind, our kind. We who are ‘free’ do not know how to be free. To our former colonial masters, letting go of the yokes by which they enslaved us renders them open to a culture shock; rapists who were used to predatory living and being waited upon suddenly have to be responsible for their own lives. It’s like a mad experiment pitting medieval apes in the cockpit of 21st century modernism; the effect is awful and redolent of duplicity and base humanity.

But the fault is never with the colonialist; Nigeria has no business blaming Britain for the pitiful husk our fatherland is fast becoming.

Neither should we blame America, Asia or the rest of Europe for whatever misfortune becomes our lot.

It’s getting too old now. It’s undeniably tiresome too; that entitlement to victimhood and loser mentality we have learnt to project.

Decades after we attained freedom or at least, a semblance of it from Britain, we remain disposable gourds for alien trolls to sip from.

What happened to the popular saw about being exploitable to the extent of the customary fool’s willingness to be exploited?

The British Prime Minister (PM) recently threatened to withdraw socalled aids (which are in actuality, chains) from Nigeria if the country refuses to repeal its anti-gay law that stipulates 14 years imprisonment for anyone found engaging in homosexual liaisons. Canada and United States lent their voices to the disgraceful clamour and desperate bid to legitimize psycho-sexual perversions on the Nigerian people.

Even more worrisome is Britain’s recent decision to impose a £3, 000 (about N750, 000) visa bond requirement on Nigerians seeking to travel to Britain. They will forfeit the money if they overstay in Britain after their visa has expired.

I do not blame Britain for its decision since the country has every right to determine what laws or criteria facilitates or hampers its immigration system and foreign relations. I blame Nigeria for putting herself in a position that empowers every depraved lecher to defile her from behind and ‘missionary’ style in the full glare of the whole wide world.

It is time to heal. It is time for the Nigerian youth to take his rightful place in the scheme of things. In order to heal, the Nigerian youth need to create and unite under a socio-political platform immune to and jealously guarded against the madness of materialism, racism and intractable wile characteristic of the current ruling class.

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S Governor Raji Babatunde Fashola, SAN, attains the golden age of 50, thoughts must naturally be directed at his legacy as an extra-ordinary and outstanding administrator of the Centre of Excellence and the future direction his march through politics should take.

The Fashola phenomenon is an incredible quantum leap away from the usual black African paternalistic orientation in governance in which the Head of Government is “the father of the nation”, the sole authority and sole owner of an impoverished, run down polity. In this familiar scenario, the ‘leader’ is above the law, is the owner of all state resources and dreaded oppressor of freedom and human rights; a contemporary ‘Papa Doc’ whose rule is buttressed by a phalanx of tonton macoute composed by misguided security agents, boot lickers and sycophants.

In sharp contrast to the above, whilst building on the legacy of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Fashola has established a modern, enlightened democratic and civilized state and society in Lagos under the rule of law.

Quite rightly, emphasis and considerable attention have been devoted to the infrastructural and physical development, transformation, indeed revolution, Fashola and his predecessor have deployed in changing the face of Lagos State, and the standard of life enjoyed by its people.

All of us people of Lagos are beneficiaries of this physical transformation which has introduced, so to speak, ‘another life’, in Lagos.

The total reconstruction and upgrade of Lagos roads and bridges from deplorable to developed world standards, the B.R.T. project which has brought relief to commuters and improved sanity on Lagos roads, the world class infrastructure like the upcoming 10 lane Okokomaiko – Marina express way with its light rail component, the Ikoyi – Lekki cable bridge, first of its kind in subSaharan Africa, which gives users, the false impression that they are in a European country, the greening and beautification of Lagos, with the establishment of parks and gardens in former area boy infested locations, which has brought beauty, elegance, culture and advanced recreation centres to Lagos, the up coming Eko Atlantic City, which will become the most advanced business, residential and tourist centre in Africa – an audacious and breath-taking project dreamed of only in Europe, America and the middle East; the unprecedented security, peace and safety being enjoyed in Lagos State as a result of the governor’s Security Trust initiative; all establish Fashola as an outstanding figure who has stamped his thoughts, vision and dreams on the polity, on an epic scale.

This is all very remarkable indeed; but the real Fashola phenomenon is more than an intimidating deployment of life changing iron and steel mortar, concrete, bricks and macadam structures that have brought relief and comfort to Lagosians.

The essential Fashola phenomenon is better comprehended by

Shall we take this too smilingly?

Already, the Nigerian leadership has responded in its characteristic fashion threatening to ‘retaliate’ in kind if Britain fails to rescind its contemptuous decision. But even Britain knows that Nigeria’s response is likable to the habitual drunk’s vengeful fart to every callous romp he witnesses of his wife and the bachelor next door.

If Nigeria were to be serious, she would respond by demanding that every British tourist, businessman or expatriate seeking to travel to Nigeria post a bond of £300, 000 before being allowed into Nigeria as a precondition that they would customarily seek not to evade tax, abuse their domestic staff and employees and further, must accept to be paid their salaries only in Naira and into Nigerian banks. But this would be deemed preposterous by Britain and hordes of Nigerians desperately trying to be more British than the Brit.

The Nigerian government should be able to pull this off knowing we do not need Britain but Britain desperately needs us – just as the whole of Europe needs Africa to survive.

Should every continent shut its doors to the other and look inwardly to chart its path to the prosperous future of its dreams, the African continent would stand in greater advantage, with the right attitude, conscientious leadership and citizenship but this is a discuss well suited for another day and another forum.

Today, let’s deal with Nigeria’s constant humiliation in the hands of Britain and the rest of the world.

We are to blame for every humiliation we are forced to endure at home and abroad. And this is because we have failed to evolve.

Many have argued that it is only fair that Nigeria experiences such humiliation given the quality of local and global citizenship of the

average Nigerian. Unemployment, pervasive poverty and terrorism at home force many Nigerians to scramble for safe havens abroad but how really safe are the safe heavens abroad? What if the so-called ‘lands of greener pasture’ decide to repatriate every Nigerian immigrant in future?

A few eggheads have recommended practicable solutions to Nigeria’s recurrent malaise of bad leadership but more often than not, their wonderful and highfaluting solutions and theories of progressive change, reverberate as blandishments to Caucasian wisdom – which further establishes the fact that many a self-styled intellectual revolutionary and paper tiger is substantially a colonial apologist still smitten by the vaunted wisdom and altruism of the so-called ‘first world.’

The crises in modern Europe and America: financial meltdown, unemployment, mediocre youths, sexual perversions, state-sponsored terrorism, the elevation of might above morals and simple human decencies and racism among other things, reveals their ordinariness and punctures farfetched arguments of their invincibility, impeccable humanity and wisdom. Hence there is no point elevating the Caucasians above every vile or ill that makes the Nigerian spite and wish the worst on his fatherland.

The task before us is clear enough.

Let us seek to be good. Without the beaming brightness of the simple decencies and morality that makes a rustic village tower higher than Elysium, Nigeria will continue to set adrift. Good people produce good leaders. Bad people produce and ennoble bad leadership. The attitude of the Nigerian mind towards citizenship, democracy and other political measures of self-determination should be divested of the prevalent conceptions of gov-

ernment.

Some of our greatest problems in this country, besides corruption, are racism and greed. We need not be handicapped by these. The future of Nigeria lies in our hands. Sovereign National Conference or not, no solution will work under the leadership and citizenship of unrepentant racists and self-aggrandizing characters like you and me.

It is time to heal. It is time for the Nigerian youth to take his rightful place in the scheme of things. In order to heal, the Nigerian youth need to create and unite under a socio-political platform immune to and jealously guarded against the madness of materialism, racism and intractable wile characteristic of the current ruling class.

We need to identify the demons that drive the ruling class and dispossess our minds of every vanity that makes us habitable to similar fiends. The tragedy of our generation subsists in our seemingly uncontainable prospects and our desperation to be lorded over and contained, at a price. If we are indeed more endowed in intellect and humanity than the current ruling class, let us stop being disposable pawns in its politics of bitterness and plunder.

The Nigerian youth, irrespective of personal politics and tribe, should learn to live and strive, united in common effort, in pursuit of a common government, sensitive to mutual thought and feeling, yet subtly and silently separate in matters of politics and individuality.

The choice is ours to make; we either choose to remain a bunch of fools and clueless agitators forever, or we could choose to leave the current leadership to the madness it perpetuates while we chart fresh paths to the future of our dreams.

• To be continued...

Fashola phenomenon and the future of Nigeria

By Professor Itse Sagay, SAN a consideration of his style of governance, his orientation, his leadership psyche, his comportment and his world view.

Fashola operates on the basis of the supremacy of the rule of law, respect for civil and human rights and the vigorous pursuit of an enlightened and civilized code of governance. He is focused, resolute and unwavering in the implementation of his vision and plans for Lagos State.

His discourses, addresses and presentations at the frequent stake holders and town hall meetings, and at symposia colloquia, etc, held by him, reveal his crystal clear thought process, high intellectual capacity and the novelty and profundity of his ideas; all of which generate deep reflection, a sense of enquiry, introspection, warmth enthusiasm and positive motivation in his audience.

In contrast to the pedestrian and hackneyed effusions of many professional politicians, Fashola’s language and expressions are elevated, elegant, lucid and he is exceptionally articulate and coherent.

Therefore when his expressed thoughts are taken together with his style of delivery, one could be forgiven for comparing him favourably to the Prime Minister during question time in London.

The outstanding developments in the Ministry of Justice during the Tinubu/Osinbajo era have been carried forward and replenished by the current Fashola/Ipaye era. These twin administrations have seen the establishment of: 1. The office of the Public Defender, in which the state provides free legal advice and legal defence to poor and oppressed citizens, even when being prosecuted by the Lagos State Government itself.

2. Human Rights Protection Unit.

3. Multi-Door Court House for different types of alternative dispute resolutions.

4. Citizens mediation centre, offering free mediation in conflicts between Married couples, Landlords and tenants, etc, free of charge.

5. Consumer Rights and Protection Unit.

6. Protection and enforcement of child rights.

7. Reform in the criminal justice administration system.

The establishment of these programmes and institutions would have been remarkable in a developed country. In a third world, heart of black Africa state, it is phenomenal ascent of man in social and political development without precedent.

Complementing all the above, there is the justifiably lauded

massive welfare programmes for judges and magistrates involving greatly enhanced salaries and allowances, provision of personal houses, cars, etc, which have boosted the confidence and independence of the judiciary.

In comportment, the governor is humble, simple, unobtrusive, polite and cultured and compassionate. His entourage moves through Lagos unnoticed and without fuss. He usually enters a hall in which he is being expected, before the seated guests notice.

The totality of the phenomena highlighted above, have made Lagos State, unique and in a sense, odd in the Nigerian milieu – a first world state in a third world country. The Tinubu/Fashola administrations have brought about a culture of civilization, enlightenment and civic intercourse that is far in advance of their counterparts in other states, particularly those outside the South West.

As I observed at an event in April 2013, what is most significant and fundamental about the Fashola phenomenon is not the physical aspect that we see and touch, but the unseen yet most profound aspect – his vision, commitment, focus, sacrifice, service to the people, transparency, integrity, honour and respect for the governed. These are the values that drive the man to a level of achievement which even the international community is beginning to notice and appreciate.

Fashola has been midwifing the emergence of a modern, democratic State, subject to the supremacy of the rule of law and operating under a civilized and enlightened political and social template in the last six years.

The question must therefore arise, whether this man who is completing his second term as governor in May 2015, is not now desperately needed at the centre to release this country from the destructive and primitive political forces operating there, and filling the vacuum with his values, thus leading us to a modern civilized, developed and enlightened country. A country in which a rich Nigeria will not be populated by poverty-stricken Nigerians and in which security, welfare, the rule of law, political and fiscal federalism and the pursuit of happiness for all Nigerians, will be paramount.

‘The question must therefore arise, whether this man who is completing his second term as governor in May 2015, is not now desperately needed at the centre to release this country from the destructive and primitive political forces operating there’

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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COMMENTS ‘Discrimination is a disease.’

———Roger Staubach

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N this contemporary period, there is no rationale that can sufficiently justify a discriminatory policy. A bigoted action plan will largely be perceived by the public as excessive - something to be sentenced to the gaol of people’s resentment. No wonder, that famous American footballer, Roger Staubach, in utmost exasperation of the society he lives in, described discrimination as a disease-and I add-that must not be allowed to become contagious.

That is why the bug of discrimination that seems to be creeping into Britain’s diplomatic policy against some developing countries including Nigeria, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Pakistan and India must be condemned before other countries such as the United States, Germany and France among others catch the costly bug. Britain wants first time visitors to her territory from “high risk” countries that are vulnerable to immigration and systemic abuses to commence payment of £3,000 visa bond from November when the pilot scheme was to start before Prime Minister David Cameron reportedly halted the controversial plan.

Theresa May, Britain’s Home Secretary, sees the policy as one that would cut immigration and systemic abuses. She puts it succinctly: “In the long run we’re interested in a system of bonds that deters overstaying and recovers costs if a foreign national has used our public services.” The affected countries were reportedly picked based on their high number of visa applications and what the British Government sees as relatively high levels of especially immigration infractions and fraud.

It would be wrong for anyone to fault UK government’s valid concerns about people illegally overstaying in its country. For instance, Nigerians can go to any length to get a UK visa or visas of most developed countries of the world. Since the late eighties when the foundation of Nigeria’s economic problems became pronounced, most youths have taken delight in seeking greener pastures abroad, and at whatever cost. Most Nigerians, including parents can sell anything they own to send their wards abroad and if yours sincerely knows the character traits of fellow country men and women, then, this expensive bond will not be any serious impediment in their way to leave the country by any means. If Nigerians could

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OST Nigerians must be pretty sick of and wearied down by President Goodluck Jonathan and his obsession with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF). The impression hitting us out here is that the president suffers multiple nightmares over NGF and Governor Rotimi Amaechi. In between shuttling out to attend some piddlediddle foreign meetings (better left for the foreign minister or vice president) and taking on NGF-Amaechi, there seems to be nothing else happening.

It just makes one wonder whether the president would rather be a governor, which explains the above title. Two years gone in the life of the Jonathan Presidency and nothing to report (thanks that all the anniversary noise has died down and one can really attempt an assessment). The two critical questions to ask any leader in a tenured position are: are the people you lead happier with you today than when you started? Would you win an election if held today? If you want an honest answer Mr. President, it is no, no.

The truth is that Nigerians are disappointed and disillusioned and there are hardly achievements (concrete or symbolic) to point to. Without sounding apologetic, one says that not to malign but on the contrary, to offer some help.

In two years, the Jonathan presidency seems to have only done well in alienating Nigerians, impoverishing them or both. The presidency ought to be troubled that east, west, north or south, we cannot find true, core supporters rooting for the president; not young, not old, not male, not female. That is indeed worrisome. Yes, he has faced enormous security challenges since inception but he would earn no plaudits for managing the problem well in the face of the enormous funds thrown at it. And this brings us to the issue of today; it is as if the security distractions are not enough and the president creates invidious palaver of his own, helping to bug his self down and drag the presidency to the bog.

The feud with Governor Amaechi of Rivers State who is the chairman of the NGF came to a head last month when Amaechi trounced the president’s candidate in a re-

07011117777

UK’s cash-bond: The world is watching

•David Cameron pay an amount that is as high as N500, 000 bribe to get employed in government establishments, then they would sadly go extra mile to pay double to abscond from the nation.

Unfortunately, it is only when they get abroad that they realised that pound sterling is not picked free on the streets of London nor dollar freely sprayed on the streets of New York. Over there, one would need to work hard, and getting a job to earn a pay is dependent on whether one is armed with requisite papers which majority of those that overstayed do not possess. This is one major reason that most of them take to crime.

It is also true that most Nigerians and citizens of other affected countries claim undeserved benefits which have so far become

burdensome on the British government. But what it ought to have done is not to take or contemplate recourse to expensive visa bond but to embark on conscious efforts to reinforce existing system of law to deal with such illegal immigrants. Does it mean that Britain can no longer secure her territory against illegal immigrants? The UK’s government should concentrate on how to weed out people staying in her domain illegally rather than on making that unpopular cash-bond against visitors from evolving countries around the world. It is important for Cameron’s government not to lose focus on how to apprehend those nationals that have so far overstayed their welcome in the UK. Some analysts may be quite correct to have argued that even if Britain is witnessing any form of cash crunch, the best approach would not be to vent her spleen on travellers desirous of visiting her jurisdiction.

The yet to be finally approved bond at this period is not opportune. For as long as its payment remains selective against some countries, it will never be auspicious. This is importantly so at this crucial moment that most people from Third World countries are beginning to lose trust and confidence in Western countries’ genuine interest in their wellbeing: Yet, those nationals still troop there because of their insatiable search for the elusive greener pasture. For such discriminatory diplomatic policy to be foisted on people from developing parts of the world is to say the least, insensitive and con-

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve.osuji@yahoo.com

POT-POURRI: Governor Jonathan and other stories election. Yet there is no let up, instead a subterfuge faction of the losers was installed and the ensuing tussle has continued to take its toll on the entire country with our president not too far removed from the commotion.

Last Wednesday, the authentic version was to meet and the presidency climbed down from its kilimanjaroic heights to torpedo that meeting by fixing a Presidential dinner the same day, the same hour. But Gov. Amaechi showed more grace by aborting the NGF meeting to honour the president. That is statesmanship.

How much lower can it get? Presidential handlers should be depressed that each time they try to cut down Amaechi he grows even taller. The Goliath illogic teaches that he should never engage David in combat because win or lose, Goliath loses anyway. The presidency at its regal and majestic summit should never be in desperate contention with any body or group for any prize because the president’s loss is our collective loss; a president’s hiccup is a national hiccup which is why he/she must stay aloof, removed and detached.

It has been canvassed in this column earlier that the right approach would be for the president to decidedly ignore the NGF. The simply reason being that the much desired second term (which we all know is the bone of

contention) does not ultimately depend on whether he has the NGF in his pocket or under his armpit. Rather, it would depend on how much work he delivers to the people.

The lesson again, a Goliath will never win a David.

STATE OF THE NATION BILL: Jonathan won’t talk to us. It is strange that President Goodluck Jonathan has shot down the State of the nation Bill which would have given him a platform to address his people once a year. The National Assembly has passed the bill but number one thinks differently. It is the practice in many parts of the world for president/heads of state to give an elaborate speech detailing the activities of government in the course of the year. Smart leaders make a world of this opportunity: they set the stage as they would and pick their roles to the delight of their people. In the U.S. for instance, the State of the Nation Address is a cause célèbre. Why President Jonathan would shy away from it is unfathomable.

DAVID MARK: death for oil thieves, death for corrupt politicians to. Senate president, David Mark recently advocated death sentence for oil thieves in Nigeria. Perhaps alarmed by the reports from the Nigerian national Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) that we may have lost about N7 trillion to oil thieves in 2012, Mark thinks imposing death penalty would be the antidote. One is sur-

temptuous.

But can we blame the British government for coming up with this policy? Absolutely no! Perhaps if successive leadership in the country had built a workable system and infrastructure, the nation would have been conducive for the citizenry to live in today.

One can only imagine what was in the mind of Dr. Andrew Pocock, British High Commissioner to Nigeria when he had a meeting with Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs over the contentious policy. Pocock must have been innately laughing at the argument and subtle threat of a minister whose country cannot provide for her citizens unlike what obtains in Britain. Yes, the doctrine of reciprocity is allowed in international law but even if this cash-for-visa policy stands and Nigeria applies the same measure, how many British citizens will be willing to part with such exorbitant bond just to visit Nigeria?

The truth is that any visiting Briton to the African continent will prefer other better organised countries in the continent to Nigeria that overtime has been befuddled by challenges of insecurity and unbelievably high graduate unemployment not to talk of unstable power supply and ravaging poverty that are becoming more pronounced under President Goodluck Jonathan.

Certainly, this UK’s cash-bond-for-visa policy, though temporarily in abeyance, is not well thought out even when nobody can fault a sovereign country’s free will to toe a particular direction considered to be in her own interest. The decision or the thought of it is extremely bad public diplomacy for the UK. Perhaps, the way the bid by South-African government to slam deportation fees of N100, 000 on Nigerians was stopped should be the way this cash bond must be fought.

Cameron should think twice before signing off details of this policy if at all he has to do that. This policy is a disease that should not be allowed to spread.

‘The affected countries were reportedly picked based on their high number of visa applications and what the British Government sees as relatively high levels of especially immigration infractions and fraud’ prised that Mark seeks to eradicate ringworm while leprosy ravages the land. Can he not see the direct and indirect links between official corruption and oil thievery? Can’t he see it is a bazaar, a feeding frenzy of corruption?

The Ogas at the top are neck-deep into it and everybody else helps his self. What is good for Jonah is good for Marc and for Tom, Dick and Harry. There is so much President Mark can do to kill the monster sitting right there in his chambers; so much.

OSUN N10BILLION ISLAMIC BOND: ouch Aregbe. Our comrade governor, Rauf Aregbesola is fast growing into an unmanageable enigma. Today he blazes a trail to the right and tomorrow he counters it with a blast to the left. We thought the first lesson in leadership is to leave religion out of government. But our dear gov would not only embrace it, he does not faint to poke it in the eye. Yesterday it was about hijab and Muslim holiday, now it is about OSUN ISLAMIC BOND. Surely the state can raise bond without the distraction of starting a holy war. All these religious wahala he is invoking will not add an iota of good to his work as a governor and worse, he messes with an otherwise good legacy. Some of these seeds he sows today will grow into ‘evil’ trees 20 years hence. How would he love that for legacy?

SUNTAI PHOTO SHOW: why doesn’t he just resign? No week passes without we seeing the photo of Taraba State’s ailing governor, Mr. Danbaba Suntai in newspapers straining to show that he is well, that he can stand erect, that he can stand. We sympathize with Suntai who was involved in an unfortunate plane crash, we feel for his household.

But the wise action to take now is to resign as governor and allow the state to move on.

Running a state is onerous enough for the fully fit. We think that in the interest of the people of Taraba and for his sake too, he should take a graceful bow. That would be most honorable.

EXPRESSO IS TWO: long live Expresso.

July 1st is second anniversary of the debut of Expresso. A long, wearisome and obdurate road it has been but the beat must go on. I raise my glass to all the ardent readers, they are the mainstay of this column.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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PEOPLE THE NATION

AN EIGHT-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

All roads led to the palace of the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris for the turbaning of Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma as Jarmai Zazzau last Saturday. TONY AKOWE reports

•Gen Danjuma (middle) being decorated by aides of the Emir

Another feather to the general’s cap T

HE singing of Yayi o, yayi, yayi Allah yayi, a Hausa gospel song at 9.51am ushered former Defence Minister, Lt. Gen Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, into the palace of the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris for his turbaning as the Jarmai Zazzau.

Dressed in flowing white babaringa with red spots and a red cap to match, the retired general came with family, friends and associates, to receive one of the prestigious titles. The palace was filled to capacity with dignitaries from all walks of life, numbered among them were military officials, traditional rulers and members of the academia. The guests started arriving as early as 8.00am. The front of the palace, where traders usually stayed, was taken over by heavily armed security men. Guests were frisked before being allowed into the palace ground. Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, entered the arena quietly, former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida’s entry was heralded.

Within and outside the palace, the TY Danjuma Foundation, mounted an exhibition. Praise singers who found their way were confined to a section. There was a large delegation from Taraba, the home state of the celebrator, led by Acting Governor Garba Umar The ceremony took off with the arrival of Kaduna State Governor, Mukthar Ramalan Yero and his Gombe State counterpart, Ibrahim Dankwambo at 10.12am. Gen. Bbabangida arrived at 9.27am, Gen. Gowon, 9.30am and House Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, 9.32am. After the rendition of the national anthem and prayers, Danjuma was presented for turbaning by the Emir, assisted by senior members of the Zazzau Emirate Council. During the turbanning, the orator sang praises of the palace, while

‘

It is most appropriate and gratifying that I am receiving this honour in Zaria where I spent some of my formative years. Zaria was one of the few northern cities that first opened her gates to pioneer missionaries in northern Nigeria, which is why Wusasa has become the second home of many northern Christian leaders

a palace flute played silently on the background to add colour to the ceremony.

Explaining the conferment of the title on Gen Danjuma, Alhaji Idris said: “Jarmai is only given to a most deserving person whose duty since the ancient days is to serve as a commander of the reserve force on the battle field. If, for any reason, the enemies overcome Madawaki’s forces, Jarmai will take the lead and assist them achieve victory. In making the decision by Zazzau Emirate Council to confer the title of Jarmai on Danjuma, consideration was made on his contributions to the development of education, agriculture, economy, industry, national security and other peaceful coexistence.”

Gen Babangida, who described Danjuma, as “My Oga on Top” and “My Oga in Service” was full of praise for the man, who he said, had a lot of influence on his career as a

’

soldier. He said 50 years after the death of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the first and only premier of the Northern Nigeria, Danjuma has emerged as the bridge builder that the North needs and has done so much to unify the region. Gen. Babangida commended the Emir for producing two Yakubus (Danjuma and Gowon) who have played a prominent role in the nation’s unity.

Yero said Gen. Danjuma’s selfless service to humanity has endeared him to millions of people across the country.

He said: “Gen Danjuma has evolved into a colossus, dependable bridge builder and a rallying point for various interest groups in the country. Even while in the military, Gen. Danjuma was reputed as one of the officers that fought for the entrenchment of democracy. He later actively took part in stabilising democracy at the dawn of the present dispensation. Posterity will also

appreciate the role Gen. Danjuma played in stabilising the present administration after the demise of the late President Umaru Yar’adua”.

The rich Zaria grand durbar, which is usually the hallmark of such ceremonies, did not hold at Gen. Danjuma’s request.

He said even though he wanted to retire into a quiet life, he could no longer do so because of added responsibilities. He said things said about him sounded more to him like grave side oration.

He said: “I have taken many risks in my life for the sake of Nigeria and at the age of 75, I thought I have paid my dues. I just wanted to spend the rest of my life in quiet retirement, leaving the public arena for a new generation of leaders to improve on the modest achievements of my generation.

It seems to me now that real retirement is only possible in the grave. Our lives and living are apparently inevitably tied eternally to responsibilities. This event was supposed to be a festive occasion featuring a durbar. But given the sad reality of our present situation in northern Nigeria, I pleaded for a simple but dignified ceremony devoid of pomp and ceremony. We are in a season of sorrow and mourning caused by decades of neglect of a sizeable segment of our society. Now, our people are dying in thousands in needless battles and conflicts.

“It is most appropriate and gratifying that I am receiving this honour in Zaria where I spent some of my formative years. Zaria was one of the few northern cities that first opened her gates to pioneer missionaries in northern Nigeria, which is why Wusasa has become the second home of many northern Christian leaders.

•Continued on page 26

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

SOCEITY

•From right: Alhaji Idris; Hon Tambuwal; Gen Danjuma and wife Senator Daisy

•Alhaji Maitama Sule

•Gen Gowon (left) greeting Gen Babangida

•Governor Yero (left) Governor Dankwambo

•Minister of State Works Bashir Yuguda (left) with Governor Yuguda

•Brig-Gen Marwa (left) and Commandant Armed Forces College AVM Eko Osim

•Chief Tony Anenih (left) greeting Prof Jerry Gana

Another feather to the general’s cap •Continued from page 25 Zaria has, therefore, distinguished itself as a beacon of religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and educational advancement. Nigeria and especially, northern Nigeria, urgently need to recapture the spirit of Zaria, the spirit of knowledge, tolerance, harmony, peace and prosperity.

In attendance were Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda; Minsiter of State for Niger Delta, Darius Ishaku; Minister of State for Works Bashir Yuguda, who represented President Goodluck Jonathan; Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees Chief Tony Anenih; former Minister of Information, Prof Jerry Gana; former Aviation Minister Chief Tonye Graham-Douglas; Senate President David Mark represented by Senator Ahmed Makarfi and Chief Paul Unongo There were also Senate Minority Leader, Senator George Akume; former Lagos State governor, Brig-Gen Buba Marwa; former Borno State Governor, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu; former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Salihu Ibrahim; Gen. Zamani Lekwot; Senator Zego Aziz; Gen Joshua Dongonyaro; former Federal Capital Territory(FCT) Minister, AVM Hamza Abdullahi; Presidential Adviser, Senator Isaiah Balat; Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Alhaji Aliko Mohammed former Katsina State Governor, Saidu Barda; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mallam Yayale Ahmed; Alhaji Maitama Sule; former Kebbi State Governor, Adamu Aliero; former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu; Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Effiong Osim and former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) boss, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, among others.

•From left: Senators Isaiah Balat; Ibrahim Mantu and Musa Adede

•From left: Chief Sam Jaja; John Dara and Alabo Tonye Douglas PHOTOS: ABAYOMI FAYESE

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S OCEITY

Glitz, glamour at Oba of Benin's birthday

Dignitaries thronged Benin City last Saturday for the birthday of Bini Monarch, Omo N’ Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa. OSAGIE OTABOR reports

T

HE ancient City of the Benin The ancient city of Benin was agog last Saturday when its revered monarch, Omo N' Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa celebrated his birthday.

The palace walls and some streets in the city were adorned with banners by individuals and corporate organisations wishing the king well.

As part of the celebration, a children's party was held. It featured dancing competition and cultural troupes.

The wives of the Oba were in attendance. They gorgeously dressed and surrounded by maids.

Entertainment was provided by DJ Darmix and Osaretin Cultural Group.

There was a re-launch of a book written by the monarch, I Remain Sir, Your Loyal Servant.

The event was well attended.

On the D-day, a birthday dinner was organised to celebrate the revered monarch at the palace ground.

The venue was decorated with white to signify purity. Beautiful female ushers dressed in Benin attire took dignitaries to their tables.

Many struggled to gain access into the tent where the reception was held.

Different cultural troupes performed to add glamour to the event.

Guests were treated to a threecourse meal of Nigerian and foreign cuisine. Assorted wines and drinks were served.

Oba Erediauwa was not present, but his presence was felt. The cake was white and adorned with beads which symbolise purity of the monarch. The Oba is the only authority to present beads to individuals.

The Oba was represented by his son, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, who thanked all for celebrating his dad.

His queens who are rarely seen in public were led by Olori Esther Erediauwa.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole, in his toast to the monarch, said the Benin monarch has contributed to the growth of the country by serving in various capacities before retiring as a permanent secretary.

He described the monarch as a bridge builder.

Others who gave toast were Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Cromwell Idahosa, Hon Patrick Obahiagbon, and Chief Eduwu Ekhator.

The Crown Prince, who was surrounded by the queens during the cutting of the cake, described the cake as special.

The celebration climaxed with a thanksgiving at the Holy Arosa Church on Akpakpava Street.

Dignitaries included Aidonogie of South Ibie, Kelvin Danesi, State Secretary of (Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the Onojie of Ewatto Chief Osaro Idah; Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dr Pius Odubu; Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie; Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN); member representing Oredo Federal Constituency Rasaq Bello Osagie; Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly Hon Uyi Igbe and other members of Edo South in the National Assembly.

Others are Mr Osarodion Ogie members of the Edo State Executive Council; members of the House of Assembly, traditional rulers from Delta State, Edo North and Central senatorial districts

•Ambassador Erediauwa assisted by the Queens of the monarch to cut the cake

•Princess Theresa Erediauwa

•Governor Oshiomhole; Ambassador Erediauwa and Dr Odubu cutting the cake

•Hon Obahiagbon (left) Prince Eweka •Some of the queens

•Mr Inneh and his wife, Princess Ekiuwa •Mr Kelly Odaro (left) and Mr Peter Okhiria

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

SOCIETY The first year coronation anniversary of Alawe of Ilawe, Ekiti, Ekiti State, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, was held last weekend. Some dignitaries, including Hon Aminu Tambuwal, were conferred with chieftaincy titles on the occasion.

DADA ALADELOKUN and SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN were there

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HE rustic Ilawe community in Ekiti State came alive last Saturday for the first coronation anniversary of its monarch, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi. It was a two-in-one event as the community also marked its Unity Day on that day. Legs and vehicles competed for space at the venue of the carnival-like event. The monarch and his wife, Olori Abimbola, looked resplendent in their traditional outfit.

The sons and daughters of the community from home and abroad bubbled with excitement. The venue, Corpus Christi College, probably had never hosted such a mammoth crowd with some high-profile personalities.

Tradition was in display. Masquerades were not left out. On their outlandish attires, they saluted all in their customary guttural voices.

It was a special day of harvest. Itinerant entertainers drummed and sang guests' praises. Even before guests' arrival, an Ekiti traditional musician, Major Femi Ariyo and members of Ekiti Cultural Troupe, gave a good account of themselves. They kept people on their feet dancing. Frontline Ikere-Ekiti born Juju music sensation, Micho Ade, later took his turn amid applause.

Policemen, Civil Defence officials and members of the Oodua People's Congress (OPC), provided security. They were complemented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor (Security), Ade Adesokan and his aides.

Many were pleasantly surprised at the calibre of the ushers, all illustrious sons of the town - former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Pastor Dele Adesina and Femi Falana, both Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN); renowned Estate surveyor, Chief Kola Akomolede and High Chief Gbenga Agbona, the Elemo of Oke-Emo, Ilawe. They were virtually on their feet throughout the event.

The celebration took off about 2pm when Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal and some of his aides and colleagues, including Dr Ifeoluwa Arowosoge and Babatunde Faparusi came in. Senators Olu Adetumbi and Babafemi Ojudu were there.

Monarchs in attendance included the Owa Ooye of Okemesi and Chairman, Ekiti State Traditional Council of Obas, Oba Michael Gbadebo; Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, Oba Adekola Ajakaye; Onisan of Isan-Ekiti, Oba Sunday Ajiboye, and the Deji of Akure, Oba Adebiyi Adesida.

Bishop Felix Femi-Ajakaiye, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, represented the clergy.

The Chairman, Ikere Local Government, Hon. Adesoji Michael, was there alongside a prominent member of Ikere Caretaker Committee, Chief Julius Aruleba. It was a special day for accomplished indigenes of the town, including Olusegun Faleye, Managing Director, Swede Control Intertek Limited, Lagos, Kayode Olofinmoyin, and Wing Commander Adeyemi Awe (rtd), former Chairman, Ilawe Improvement Union (IPU).

Another indigene, retired Lt. Col. Kayode Olugbade, owner of Command, a popular hotel in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, described the outing as "a major breakthrough for this community."

Erelu Bisi Fayemi's arrival excited the crowd.

The governor arrived about 40 minutes after his aide, Aderitan said he was on his way.

Highlights of the event included the conferment of chieftaincy titles on some dignitaries.

Tambuwal was made the Bobagunwa of Ilawe; Chief Titi Oluwatuyi, the Eyelua of Ilawe and Otunba Henry Ajomale, Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Lagos State, the Gbobaniyi.

Also honoured for their invaluable services to the community were: Mr. John Jegede who became the Bobajiro and his wife, Yeye Bobajiro.

Mr. Babatunde Babalola, the Otunba Bobaselu of Ilawe Ekiti.

Babalola generosity was also hailed by Oba Alabi for his exemplary leadership: "His love for this town and our people is indescribable.

He donated N5 million for the planning of this celebration among other contributions.

He is a treasure to the community," he said.

The occasion witnessed the launch of a N500 million ultra-modern Civic Centre, and the presentation of a N2 million sleek car gift to Mr. James Familoni by Chief Yemi Adaramodu, Fayemi's chief of staff for his impressive community development efforts.

Adaramodu gave cash gifts to Mrs. Victoria Adekunle and Mrs. Toyin Akinniyi for being "committed mothers in the community."

Among those who attended the event were the Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu and Speaker of the state Assembly, Dr. Wale

Monarch honours Tambuwal

•From left: Governor Fayemi, his wife Erelu Bisi and Hon Tambuwal

•Oba Alabi and wife Olori Abimbola

•Prof Adelabu

•Adesina

•Hon Arowosoge

•Hon Afuye

Omirin, and Hon Funminiyi Afuye, the Commissioner for Integration and Inter-Governmental Affairs. High Chief Jide Awe, who represented Ajomale; former deputy governor, Alhaji Sikiru Tae Lawal and Director-General, Ekiti State Broadcasting Service, Shina Awelewa, a lawyer.

There was a loud applausee when Tambuwal was invited to take his title. He beamed with smiles in a well-embroidered agbada. His brief address followed. He spoke of the accomplishments of the state under the Fayemi's administration, saying the progress recorded in the state so far "are too obvious to be denied."

The Speaker said: "Development is an open process which everyone would see wherever and whenever it takes place. I have been following developments under Governor Fayemi and I can say that he is one of the few Nigerians whose conducts have been commendable. I admonish you (the governor) to

continue the good works and the good Lord will continue to be with you."

He spoke on his chieftaincy title: "I accept this honour and shall never discredit it. I want to inform us that I will build my first house in the Southwest part of this country in IlaweEkiti for the great respect I attach to the honour done me here today."

Fayemi described Tambuwal as "a leader with whom I am very well pleased."

"The essence of today's celebration is to show us a leader in whom the people are well pleased. The monarch has just spent one year on the throne. We can only imagine what the town will become when he marks the tenth year on the throne."

Oba Alabi said the event would have come up on April 21 but was postponed as a mark of honour for the departed former deputy governor of the state, Mrs. Funmilayo Olayinka.

He said: "I thank God Almighty for His blessings on me and the entire Ilawe Kingdom since

I ascended the Alawe throne last year. My unanimous choice by the kingmakers to the Alawe stool, a year ago, has marked unprecedented era of unity, cooperation, and an progress in the town. We have enjoyed peace and prosperity within the constraints of the realities of our society.

"In terms of physical development, we thank the state government for the construction of Ilawe roads and other projects it started in the community, including the renovation of all the secondary schools in Ilawe-Ekiti as well as Agbajeola Hall."

Adaramodu said the event ensured the coming together of indigenes for the town's development, adding that it equally fostered unity and progress of the town.

During the donation, Falana and Adesina enjoined their kinsmen to sustain peaceful coexistence and join hands with their monarch to lift the community.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

SHOPPING

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THE NATION

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

• UTC

e-mail: shoppingthenation@hotmail.com

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

Shopping@thenationonlineng.net

• Shoprite

The return of big retail stores About 20 years ago, some popular retail supermarkets wound up their businesses.

Now another set of such large ventures is showing up in the country. Why?

I

N those days, supermarkets (referred to as departmental stores) like Kingsway, Leventis, and UTC stores operated in Nigeria since the country’s independence in 1960 up till about mid-1990s.

They were fallout of post-colonial approach to retail marketing, to cater for the needs of the remnants of British officials (still in government services and multinational companies) and few Nigerian elite shortly after Independence.

The marketing approach these businesses adopted then could not be sustained as the country’s economic environment took different turns.

Harsh operating environment in the country, which gathered steam mainly in the 1980s, forced them to start shutting down some of their operations. The disappearance of Kingsway Stores in early 1990s marked the beginning of

the closure of major retail supermarkets in the business landscape.

These supermarkets folded up mainly for reasons of inability to change marketing concepts that were skewed in favour of the rich (vestiges of colonial mentality), and failed to compete as a result.

Besides, these enterprises could not withstand the policy of the government.

The government, about mid-1980s pursued import substitution strategy, which was expected to encourage industrial growth to reduce imports of manufactured products, save foreign exchange, create jobs, and reduce the burden of dependency.

A supermarket is a form of grocery store (a store that offers a wide variety of food and household merchandise), and organised into departments. In terms of specification, the supermarket comprises

meat, fresh produce, dairy, and baked goods departments, along with shelf space reserved for canned and packaged goods as well as for various non-food items, such as household cleaners, pharmacy products and pet supplies.

Most supermarkets also sell many household products that are consumed regularly, such as alcohol (where permitted), medicine, and clothes. Some stores sell various non-food products.

Customers shop by placing their selected merchandise into shopping carts (also trolleys or baskets) mainly because of preference for self-service, and payment for whatever purchased at the check-out.

The entry of Shoprite, a large supermarket with its roots in South Africa in 2007, marked the return of supermarkets into the business scene. Business has been so favourable for Shoprite that outlets in Surulere and Alausa have

been set up, in addition to its initial take-off point in Lekki (all in Lagos). It has established 10 shopping malls spread across Nigeria, including the ones in Abuja, Enugu, Port-Harcourt and Ilorin.

Wal-Mart, America’s foremost lowprice merchandise retail store, is planning to open two stores in Nigeria soon. It is the largest world’s public corporation in terms of revenue, the biggest private employer in the world with over two million employees and the largest retailer in the world. WalMart has 8,500 stores in 15 countries.

Pepkor, another supermarket group which targets low-income earners, opened its first Nigerian store in 2012.

It intends to set up about 50 outlets in the country.

Unlike what happened in the days of Continued on Page 32

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SHOPPING

The return of big retail stores Continued from Page 31 Leventis, Kingsway and UTC Stores, when the business models were aimed at the rich, and outlets stocked with mainly imported items, this new set of similar ventures would succeed going by their strategy which suits global trend. The hallmark of their marketing strategy is hinged on more than 75 per cent of products on display being sourced from indigenous suppliers and farmers. Moreover, they have shown preference for employing and training many Nigerians – a source of creating the much-needed jobs around.

The government’s efforts towards luring foreign investors, as conveyed by the dynamism of the Minister of Trade and Investment, seem to be yielding fruits. Going by this drift, who says other large supermarkets such as Carrefour, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Woolworths, Safeway, and Marks & Spencer won’t open their doors in Nigeria shortly? This is coming at a time the focus of investors have shifted towards Africa (with a market of almost a billion people, huge resources and a young population) and Nigeria occupying the centre stage.

There is, no doubt, that the attraction of the market has bearing on the country’s fast grow-

ing middle class (which earns between N80, 000 and N100, 000 monthly or about $6,000 – $7,500 per year).

Despite the ugly incidents of insecurity, as championed by “Boko Haram,” Nigeria still remains an attractive destination to investors with keen interest in emerging markets. I call on Nigerian businesses too, to join the ‘band wagon’ and get positioned to reap from this new trend.

Advantages of the supermarket, which include the following must not be overlooked: Price tags making for easy purchase; provision for purchasing all items under the same roof; products being usually offered at low prices from reduced margins; often afford fresh products due to regular offloading of stocks; make available promotional offers; afford lower merchandise cost from economy of scale; offer better variety of goods; often replace items returned when customers complain, etc.

With the advent of these supermarkets, the development of a “supermarket culture” in Nigeria shortly is perceived – A deviation from the prevalent exploitative haggle pricing system.

• Source: Reuters

• Grocery Bazaar

Market where cows are cheap The Isheri-Kara Cattle Market on the LagosIbadan Expressway is a popular cow depot. Cows are cheap there, writes TONIA 'DIYAN

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HOUSANDS of cattle are brought from far and near to the Isheri-Karra Cattle Market in Lagos weekly. It is a market for buying and selling of cattle of different breeds.

Cattle can be got at a relatively cheaper rate.

Thousands of people converge on the market daily.

One unique thing about the market is that prospective buyers can get any cattle of their choice either for consumption or rearing.

These cattle are brought from Sokoto, Mubi, Jalingo, Bauchi, Jigawa, Maiduguri and the neighbouring Niger and Cameroon.

A cattle merchant, Mallam Usman Shuiabu, who transports cattle to other parts of the country for sale, said he takes

cattle to Lagos, Benin, Port Harcourt, Aba and Calabar.

According to him, the reason cattle are cheaper in the market is because it provides the potential buyer with a various kinds to make their purchase from. of cattle .

“We sell varieties of cattle here; the young, old and even calves are sold in this market,” he said.

Most of the time, prices of cattle don't depend on the size of the animal; rather, it is their breed. for example, the white ones are cheaper than the black and brown.

Another unique feature of the market is that it has facilities for slaughtering cows if one does not want to take his own home alive.

The big cows are sold for N220,000

• Cows at the market

Arena of shoes Shoe traders from Alakoro market in Apongbon, Lagos Island occupy 120 shops at the Arena Market, reports TAIBAT IDOWU

T

• The Shoe section @ The Arena

HE new The Arena Market has a major footwears section that is among the largest in received a letter to evacuate the place within seven days. On Monday, April 1, we saw Army, Police, and area boys they came and spoilt our goods worth of N2 billion. We are here to continue our business" He said: "We occupy 120 lines with names, such as Presidential, God Owns, Favour, Promise line, etc. People from countries like Mali, Lome, Borkina Faso, Togo, Ghana

and Ivory Coast patronise this market.“ The footwears vary in the types and prices. They are: Azonto - N350, Elastic slippers - N350, Sezus -N340, leather slippers cost N700 to N800.

Men half shoes N3,000, leather sandal goes for N3,500, Falufalu N300, ladies foreign shoes ssell for N1,300 and leather hand bag N1,200.

However, the shoe merchants at the market are asking for a place of their own.

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Brandnews

SPAN showcases creativity in Lagos

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HE Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN), a non-governmental organisation, has graduated its first set of 20 students.

The event also created an opportunity for the association to reflect on the world-class standard of creativity among youths.

Among those who attended were Mr Gabi Massoud, Mrs. Sandra Obiago, Pastor Wale Adefarasin and Mrs. Olufunmi Olajuyegbe.

SPAN also showcased its students’ artistic prowess with a heightened sense of humanity and social responsibility. The branded students were, who were well dressed and full of skills thrilled the audience.

The Founder of SPAN, Mrs Sarah Boulos, said: “Today, we are de-

By Raji Rotimi Solomon

fined by what we do more than who we are and that is the rationale behind the education of youths to achieve greatness in all that concerns them, and create opportunities for them to dialogue, develop, and overcome limitations using the performing arts as a healing and transformational tool.”

She stressed that the 2013-2014 season would be filled with education programmes, followed by rewards and awards to inspire excellence, so that more men from underprivileged communities can stand tall in the sunlight of achievements, contributing great impacts that affect and change society.

Some of the patrons and spon-

sors of the trainings and creative abilities of SPAN, include Indomie, SCOA, Seven-Up Nigeria Bottling Company, Cool FM, Mountain Dew, I.T.B. Nigeria Limited, Tropic Ice, Audio Visual First (AVF), GEA, Chellarams, Aleeco Nader, CIS Group, Group Fadoul and Netcom.

The students seized the opportunity to unveil their different stylish dance moves as they dance to the music of Eldee the Don – “Na Wash”.

The highlight of the celebration was the launch of a Special Health Fund for students by the SPAN, and cutting of the giant cake by the students, parents and well-wishers.

Two students - Emmanuel DaSilva Ajanlekoko and Nneka Obiorah - were rewarded with a dance internship award in France.

• From left: Media Consultant, Panaserv, Mr John Woma; Mr Suraj Rupani, an official of Panasonic Corporation Japan; Mr. Hiro Hiyama; Mr. Mochizuki Kota and Mr. Dipendu Goon of Panasonic Marketing Middle East, Dubai during the launch of Panasonic 2013 model of built-in Automatic Voltage Switcher Air Conditioner for Africa in Lagos.

Justrite Superstores to unveil online shop THE management of Justrite Superstores has said the indigenous superstore will introduce its online arm before the end of the year.

The Managing Director, Justrite Superstores, Mrs. Tosin Aderinwale, said in view of the growing popularity of the indigenous retail superstore in its decade of existence, there are plans to increase the number of outlets from two to four within the next seven months. Similarly, its online store will be launched within the next few months to cater for its growing clientele.

Mrs. Aderinwale noted that access to finance, cost of finance, infrastructural challenges, power, multiple taxation and human capital challenges are some of the problems that businesses contend with in the country and urged the authorities to intervene in the proper sense of the word.

“Cost of generating alternative source of power, double taxation, billing demand notices by governments – local, state and federal agencies increase the overhead cost of doing business, reduces profit and hampers growth. Therefore, the authorities need to intervene,” she added.

Journalists, firm partner on summit THE Brand Journalists’Association of Nigeria (BJAN) is partnering The Exp Nigeria for the African Experiential Marketing Summit (AEMS) billed for next month in Lagos.

The summit is taking place in Lagos for the first time since it was inaugurated in 2000, after it had been previously held in South Africa and Kenya.

The Chairman of BJAN, Mr Goddie Ofose, said the collaboration is expected to help the organisers get the needed media coverage.

The event will be hosted by Exp Nigeria – thought leaders in the experiential marketing category across the continent - to give marketers from the West African region insight into how to better their campaigns.

The summit, which has as theme, Re-invent your experiences, will feature some of the world’s leading experts, such as Dan Hanover, the Editor and Founder of Event Marketer Magazine, United States – the world’s leading provider of experiential marketing content – and Kim Skildum-Reid, Sponsorship Author and Consultant (Australia).

Exp Group Chief Marketing Officer, David Boon, explained that AEMS is part of Exp’s vision of making it easier for marketers from across the continent to experience the experiential marketing revolution that is heating up in Africa and around the world. ”The AEMS is a three-country event that will be happening in Johannesburg (South Africa), Nairobi (Kenya).”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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T

O ride on the growing union between music and youths’ development and tap into the achievements in the music industry and their impact in the international circle, brands have developed a strategy that combines entertainment and brands message to get the heart of their target audience.

Over the years, Nigeria has produced some talented hip hop artistes who have represented the nation at the world stage, thereby creating the ground for acceptability which has been recognised as one the best platforms for brands, corporate organisations as well as individuals who desired to reach the target audience.

One of such is the recently concluded Amstel Malta/Tuface Campus Connect Tour. The event, which was sponsored by Amstel Malt, of Nigerian Breweries Plc. It hosted the country’s Afro hip hop singing sensation, Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly called Tuface, and other musicians.

The Indoor Sports Hall of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) was a beehive of activities as hip hop superstars, as many students turned out to witness the six campus music tour.

The Campus Connect gig train, which made stops at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City, University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Port Harcourt, Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Enugu and the University of Abuja, Abuja had several budding and notable artistes thrilling their fans. They include: Ranson, Money B, Hype M.C, Efa, Young Grace, 2Sec, Rocksteady, Damy Crane, Sheyi Shay, Rough Coil, Vector, Solid Star, Phyno, Sound Sultan and the winner of Amstel Malta Show time in last year, Same.

Music lovers in Lagos got more than they bargained for as these music acts offered interactive music renditions, which was applauded by guests and joyful moments from them. The crowd, comprising students from UNILAG, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State Polytechnic and Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education Lagos defied the downpour on that day to enjoy music performance by Tuface and friends.

The Brand Manager, Amstel Malta, Miss Hannatu Ageni Yusuf, expressed her appreciation for the impressive turnout and the outstanding musical performances.

“Amstel Malta has always championed and advanced the course of youths by encouraging them to be the best that they can be. Tonight’s performance is also a clear demonstration of being able to connect to the University students and the good people of Lagos”.

She added: “The Amstel Malta brand has a penchant for promoting positive values in the youths to chart a good course for Nigeria as a nation. Tuface and his friends have been awesome and Amstel Malta, the low sugar premium brand from Nigerian Breweries is indeed delighted to be associated with them.”

She promised that the next edition would be bigger and more exciting as the team would prepare for it to adjust and add on some ideas to create that moment of interaction with Nigerian hip hop stars and the students.

Benefits of Amstel Malta campus storm The audience received Tuface with uncontrollable chants of excitement. Apart from churning out some his iconic music tracks, Tuface also pepped up his performance with a repertoire of chorographers while he perfected the act of singing as well as skillfully maneuvering his lanky gait. With cans of Amstel Malta in their hand, Tuface proved to his fans for the umpteenth time why he is unarguably one of Nigeria’s hottest musical exports to the global scene.

The crowd cheered endlessly as Tuface recreated his popular tracks with improvisations.

Tracks such as ‘For instance’, ‘Bush meat’, ‘Nfana Ibaga’, ‘U no holy pass’, ‘See me so’, ‘No shaking’, ‘Enter the place’, ‘Implication’, and his hit track from his recent‘ Away and Beyond’ album tagged ‘Ihe neme’. Certainly, Tuface backed by his friends lived up to his billing as one of Nigeria’s top acts, he also provided the undergraduates with the opportunity to be the best they can be.

Okodua Cosmos, a 300 Level Estate Management student, described the show as the best that has ever happened on the campus of UNILAG because it created an exciting moment between the students and the hip hop stars. He praised Amstel Malta for creating the platform for these music acts to perform, thereby contributing to extra-curricular activities in schools.

“I believe the brand must have paid a huge amount to bring Tuface and his friends to UNILAG, if we were to pay the amount charged by organisers of such shows outside the campus we would have paid through our nose, but we came in almost free. They really encouraged us to be the best we can be.”

Ogunsola Oluwakemi, a100 Level Psychology undergraduate also expressed her excitement and satisfaction on the show; “I cannot describe how happy I am to see some of the hip hop stars on stage, I am also getting the best time with best malt. The show has brought us relief from the bustle of lecture hall, this should happen often to help us reduce the stress of campus,” she said.

Adukwu Ekene, a 300 Level Human Kinetic and Health Education student, praised the synergy between Tuface and Amstel Malta, calling for more of such gigs on campus.

Nigeria has been called “the heart of African music” because of its role in the development of West African highlife and palm-wine music, which fuses native rhythms with techniques imported from the Congo for the development of several popular styles that were unique to Nigeria, such as Apala, fuji, jùjú, highlife, and Yo-pop.

Subsequently, Nigerian musicians created their styles of United States hip hop music and Jamaican reggae. The musical output has achieved international acclaim not only in the fields of folk and popular music, but also Western art music written by composers.

Thenewbreedofmusicians championed by Tuface and others has, indeed, taken music to unimaginable heights.

• Participants at a seminar on International Baccalaureate (IB) programme by Greensprings School, Lekki, Lagos. Inset: Mrs Lai Koiki, the schools’ Director.

T

RyteDeals and online retail sales war

HE online retail space in the country has become a gold mine as the electronic retailers are now jostling for market supremacy. The online stores that are competing for market share are RyteDeals, Jumia, Konga and Dealday etc with RyteDeals fiercely challenging the established ones for market domination. A wholly own indigenous firm, RyteDeals is the latest addition to Nigeria’s flourishing online retail space.

To win the war of market dominance, a subtle price war has begun among online retailers and they are jostling for the attention of Nigeria’s online teeming shoppers.

Already, RyteDeals offers up to 75 per cent discount on products and services purchased at www.rytedeals.com. The company has developed its strategy in alignment with the strong positive sentiment towards online shopping in Nigeria among the over 40 million Internet population, many of who live in the urban centres.

Aside pricing strategy, RyteDeals and others offer flexible delivery regime, cash-ondelivery and discount in order to grab market share. According to a statement from RyteDeals and signed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Victor Alaofin, 57 per cent of the 40 million Internet population in Nigeria will continue to make purchases online, as long as “it offers the best value always”.

Among products on offer at RyteDeals are cars, properties, gadgets, health & fitness.

Others are food, electronics, clothings, medical services, trainings, events, tours, accessories. He said that there are opportunities in the country’s e-commerce space and more

By Jimi David

Nigerians are willing to shop locally owing to the fact that shopping online is “faster, convenient and cheaper”.

An initiative of Ryte Internet Technology, a proudly indigenous IT company with a focus on using the internet to benefit its teeming customers, RyteDeals commenced operation on June 10.

“RyteDeals is the most efficient customer acquisition open scheme to businesses anywhere in Nigeria. We assist companies to promote their products and services in the most cost efficient manner. We give products/services intense online expose for a minimum of seven days. This could be more depending on the value of the service or product in question,” he said.

Concerning competition, he said RyteDeals is a value-driven company and that the company has a wide range of ideas and structure to serve its customers better. One of these ideas is ‘dial-a-deal’, through which customers can dial a phone number to get ‘enhanced, convenience service’. Business owners, he said, equally have opportunity to get the “Ryte customers, market recognition and reach for their products and services”.

RyteDeals are promoted primarily online via subscriber-based daily emailed newsletter and it has reached several thousand of Nigerians daily with the best value deals in the country. It has very strong social media presence and offer offline sales via a strong nationwide agency network.

‘RyteDeals is the most efficient customer acquisition open scheme to businesses anywhere in Nigeria. We assist companies to promote their products and services in the most cost efficient manner. We give products/services intense online expose for a minimum of seven days. This could be more depending on the value of the service or product in question’

... As Funke Akindele emerges face of Qlichy.com

F

AST growing online business networking platform, Qlichy.com has announced star actress, Funke Akindele, as brand ambassador. She was presented to a section of the media last Saturday at a ceremony at The Quadrant Company in Ikeja, Lagos.

Her presentation came on the heels the launch in April and a town storm campaign in May by the brand.

Qlichy.com is a multi site business portal, news service and e-commerce platform which is linked to the Interswitch platform for payment purposes. The platform has been enjoying growing patronage and traffic since its launch in April. Qlichy.com offers access to platforms such as Bizpoint, Talkpoint, Salespoint, Playpoint and Thoughtpoint for businesses and consumers to meet and interact.

Akindele said: “I am delighted to be associated with Qlichy.com and consider it a honour to be the brand ambassador. The Qlichy brand besides being the ultimate virtual meeting point and resource center, it is the future. I say this because this new platform will empower a lot of people.”

She added: “ I admire the thought process behind it and that’s why I am thrilled to be part of the Team Qlichy. It will empower a wide range of people and I enjoin all business operators, owners, content develop-

ers and resource persons to be part of it.

Earlier, the Managing Director of The Quadrant Company, parent company of Qlichy.com, Bolaji Okusaga explained that with the unveil of Akindele as brand ambassador, the multimedia awareness campaign to further deepen the brand’s acceptance was set to roll out.

“We’re launching the radio and online campaign next Monday to further avail more businesses and individuals the limitless opportunities that Qlichy.com offers enterprises across different sectors of the economy, be it consumer goods, oil and gas, real estate, telecoms and financial sectors among many others,” Okusaga said.

He revealed that the projection of Qlichy.com within the next six months is to become a household name in business intelligence and social commerce given the ability of the platform to offer a seamless experience which cuts across business information, lifestyle and e-commerce. He added that the Qlichy platform is able to achieve its audacious targets through daily news feeds, crowd sourcing, networking and other varied opportunities which it provides.

“Achieving this target will require luring businesses and consumer searching for opportunities to visit and explore possibilities which were before now fragmented in the Nigerian online space,” Okusaga added.

*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.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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SOCIETY

•Oba Aladesuru (right) presenting award to Dr Elliot Adeosun

•Chief Aro Abegunde (left) and Pastor Alabi

•From right: Ambassador Omowale; Hon Elizabeth Folake and Chief Sunday Alade PHOTOS: RAHMAN SANUSI

•Justice Akinjide Ajakaye (left) and Chief Lanre Awolokun

It was time to relax and recognise some dear ones when Ekiti indigenes converged on Baptist Academy Hall, Obanikoro, Lagos where Igede Progressive Association (IPA), Lagos branch, gave awards to some of its members, OLATUNDE ODEBIYI was there.

I

T was home away from home in Lagos last Saturday for indigenes of Igede-Ekiti, headquarters of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State. They converged on the city to strategise on how to move their community forward and reward those had, in the past contributed to the development of the town.

The forum, organised by the Lagos chapter of Igede Progressive Association (IPA), afforded, and served as a reunion for kinsmen who had not met for a very long time. It was the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the IPA in Lagos.

Indigenes were all smiles as they sighted loved ones on approaching the Baptist Academy Hall, Baptist Conference Centre, Obanikoro, venue of the get-together.

The awards given to deserving members of the community spiced up the gathering where indigenes had frank talks. There was an appraisal of events in the one year and a way forward was charted.

In all, 13 indigenes were honoured - 10 called out and given awards of excellence for their selfless services in the past to IPA and upcoming Igede youths and three posthumously honoured.

The hall was decorated with brown and offwhite. The chairs were set round tables and decorated with orange fabric.

The weather was cool and fair and, cars were packed orderly in the parks.

The guests decked in different traditional attires.

The arrival of the Onigede of Igede, Oba

Hope rises for community

James Adelusi Aladesuru, was greeted with jubilation. Indigenes and guests stood up and yelled Kabieysioooo - the traditional way of greeting a monarch.

Some of the indigenes blocked his way, greetings and hailing followed. Others chatted as the monarch acknowledged cheers, waving the horse tail as he was ushered into the hall, straight to the high table.

The event started with an opening prayer which was said by Rev Oluwamotemi Philip.

Oba Aladesuru congratulated the awardees for the success achieved and encouraged them to continue in their service to humanity with passion.

He said: "There is joy when people of the same land have the opportunity to meet together and that's why we are here today to share in the joy of the day and to proffer the way forward. I am so excited to see many people who I have not seen in recent time and I am sure that they are also happy because of the way they are all coming around to greet and chat with me."

The monarch called on the awardees and other indigenes to give it all it takes to move the association forward, urging all to give back to their community. He reminded indigenes who have not invested in the town as debtors to their cradle.

His words: "Live and unite together in love because this is the only way we can be useful to one another for the development of our town."

Apparently throwing a carrot at willing investors, the monarch promised to use his office for the allocation of plots of lands without stress to indigenes.

In his opening remarks, IPA Chairman (Lagos chapter) Pastor Olufemi Alabi, urged members to be of one mind. He described the event as wonderful, saying that the grace of God has kept the association moving.

The cleric urged members, especially the younger ones, to remain focused, determined and hardworking.

Also speaking, the National President, Chief Olusola Omowaye, said the association aspires to take good care of its members, bring the youths together and develop them in such a way that they will be useful to themselves and the community at large.

Omowaye congratulated the awardees and advised them not to relent.

The guest speaker, Mr Bosun Ajayi, urged members to incorporate co-ordination, integration and coordination if the association must move forward and take its rightful place.

Ajayi spoke of the need for collective responsibility, change in orientation, rejection of evil covenant and returning to God. The awardees were presented after their citations had been read. They stepped out one after another with applauds from the hall.

After short remarks, the awardees thanked

the community for the honour and made fresh pledges to support the community.

Among them was a former Chairman of the Appropriation and Finance Committees of Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon Olu Obaweya, who thanked the association for appreciating them for the works done in their life time.

"We give God the glory for today. It is a unique thing for people to appreciate good gesture. I am grateful to God for the impact he has enabled me to make in my community. It is a pleasant thing and I am proud of it," he said.

Obaweya appealed to the youth of the association to contribute meaning fully to its development.

Also, the Olureri of Igede Ekiti, High Chief Oluwole Fakunle said: "I am very happy and exited for this honour, this is what we all want and it is a thing of joy."

He urged the youth not to be in a hurry to get to the top, rather wait on the Lord, be hard working, rely and focus on God because it is only the wisdom of God that can save a man.

Former legal adviser of First Bank Plc, Chief Andrew Ajibade, described the award as pleasant.

"It is a good thing to appreciate the effort of other people. The award is not to make me relaxed, rather it is a challenge to make me to do more," he said.

FIDAU FOR ALHAJA MULIKAT ANIKE OYEFESO AT IJEBU-AIYEPE, OGUN STATE

•From right: Son of the deceased and former Commissioner with Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) Alhaji Musibau Oyefeso; his brother and Chief Executive Officer Staco Insurance Ltd Alhaji Shakiru Oyefeso and Deputy Managing Director Courtville Investment Ltd Alhaji Wale Sonaike

•Action Congress of Nigeria National Legal Adviser Dr Muiz Banire

•Guest Speaker Sheikh AbdurRahman Ahmad PHOTOS: OLATUNDE ODEBIYI

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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SOCIETY Prof Olasunkanmi Emiola and his wife Tinuola have given out their daughter Temitope in marriage to Olufesobi, son of Olutayo and Adebisi Bright at a colourful ceremony in Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI was there

‘She is your helper’

“G

OD has given you a helper as a wife. She will satisfy you with every good thing. The helper is there for you to fulfill God’s purpose of subduing the earth together because two are better than one.”

With those words, Pastor Wale Adeduro of the Milk and Honey Chapter of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Maryland, Lagos, pronounced former Miss Temitope Emiola and Olufesobi Bright as man and wife.

For the families of the lovebirds, it was a joy seeing them take their first step into marital life last Saturday. Two days earlier, they held the traditional wedding. It was a new experience for the couple, who beamed with joy.

Guests were resplendent in their dresses. Yellow and silver were the colours of the day. The church was filled to capacity. All seats were occupied. More chairs were brought in for the guests.

The bride, in her white fitted gown, was led into the church by her father, who wore an agbada of many colours. They walked straight on to the front aisle, where the groom, in a blue suit and white inner shirt waited for them.

The Bible reading was taken from Genesis 18-25. Pastor Adeduro urged that their union is like that between Christ and the church; they both should fulfill God’s purpose on earth by living holy lives and fulfilling God’s word.

The couple was admonished to make mistakes till they learn from those mistakes, he urged family members let their marriage grow.

Soon after signing the marriage register, Temitope took the microphone and joined her choir members and led them in rendering a special number for her husband.

Everyone moved to The Haven Events Centre, Ikeja, for the reception. Just outside it, large banners with pictures of the couple were everywhere in celebration of their love. The hall was breathtaking.

The decor was a spectacle. It was large and expansive with all the trappings of a society wedding.

On entry, guests paused and swayed their necks to know if to go left, where the bride’s family dominated with their silver head gears or right, where the groom’s people were stylish in yellow. All the tables were labelled with a nuclear and extended family name.

There were about 100 tables which 10 guests each.

The stage was set for the couple alone. The white couch was in the middle. The floor of the stage was rugged with white rug. Guests had a fulfilled day either watching the multi-coloured lightening blinks, or the pictures of the couple, or the bright coloured yellow and silver cloth decoration. The centre walkway was busy with ladies in their high heels and men in their agbada moving up and down in search of their table.

The Lifted Band entertained with good music before the arrival of the event coordinator, MC First Born. There was also an array of comedians: Exclusive and MCs Weird and Cali Bird Ejiro.

With DJ Wolex dishing out indigenous hit songs, the bride Temitope and her beau, danced into the hall. She proved a better dancer than her partner. Then, she stole the show when she, in the midst of her bridesmaids, all kitted

•From left: Groom’s father Mr Bright; bride’s mother Mrs Tinu Eniola; the couples; bride’s father Prof Eniola and groom’s mother Mrs Bright

•Arch Bode Adebayo

•Dr Aganga

•From left: Mr Edun, his wife and Prof Adebayo Williams

•Mr Agbaje and wife Bola

•Mr Bola Akingbade and his wife, Bade

•From left: Arch Roti Delano; Arch Akinowo and Mr Bayo Ibirogba

•Dr Femi Orebe

•Okan Seye Adetunmbi PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA

but learn from each other,” Aganga said.

He admonished them to be grounded in faith, so that they can move mountains and succumb to challenges and urged guests to pray for the couple.

Prof Emiola had a very emotional slow dance with her daughter before handing her over to her beau.

The song beat immediately change to Old school music of Cool and

the Gang’s Get Down on it.

Among other side attractions was a special performance by the bride’s younger brother Funbi.

In attendance were: Mrs Funke Adekoya (SAN); former Lagos commissioner for Finance Mr Wale Edun; Mr Jimi Agbaje; former Justice of the Supreme Court, George Oguntade; the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland Oba Adebisi Aromolaran; Oba Adedokun Thomas, among others.

in yellow, performed a chorography to the admiration of guests.

The groom and his men in ash coloured suits stood and watched agape.

Olufeso provoked laughter when he ran some metres just to get water for his wife. On returning to the stage, he was perspiring and had to take some sips first before giving his wife some and planting a long deep kiss on her lips. The

hall erupted in laughter.

The Chairman of the event and Minister for Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga, who said to the couple that marriage to the foolish, is a soil for growing weeds and to the wise, a soil rich for roses.

“It is an institution where you know the full meaning of love and humility. It is in learning that you make mistakes, disagree to agree;

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

39

S OCIETY The remains of Madam Felicia Olubola Aderibigbe, mother of Yinka Aderibigbe of The Nation, have been buried in Modakeke, Osun State. JUDE ISIGUZO reports

COMMUNICATE YOUR IDEAS Persuasive Speech (4) Methods of Persuasion

I

•From left: Mrs Aderonke Aderibigbe; Mr Funsho Aderibigbe; Mrs Romoke Aderibigbe and Mr Yinka Aderibigbe

Bouquet for Mama Choir

A

S a teacher, the late Madam Felicia O l u b o l a Aderibigbe was loved by many, especially her former pupils. At her funeral, they all came to pay their last respects. The late Mrs Aderibigbe was chorister in her local church till she was 75.

Her journey to the world beyond began about noon that fateful Thursday. The motorcade bearing her body stormed the sleepy town of Modakeke through Mayfair, via Ondo road to Iraye junction. It made a detour into town and moved slowly through Oke-Amola, Kule Street, down to Amuda Oba Street back to Iraye road.

From there, the motorcade moved to Gbogbo Lane home of the deceased’s surviving sister and now matriarch of the family Mrs Felicia Folashade Afolabi. A band of undertakers gaily dressed in brown Ankara took over, carrying the casket from the hearse, amid dancing to the 5, Osun Lane home of the deceased and the relations, who had been gathering since the previous day.

The casket was finally carried into the living room which was tastefully decorated in brown and gold for the lying-in state.

The casket was opened for people to catch a last glimpse. Tears flowed freely as people beheld her remains.

Even the cleric couldn’t help being emotional.

Though none wept, all the six officiating clerics at the wake service spoke glowingly of the deceased’s virtues, humility and commitment to the faith.

The Dean of the Cathedral of St Stephen, Ven. Prof. Akin Ige, whose wife was one of Mama Aderibigbe’s pupils at St Stephen’s B, Modakeke in the early 60s said: “Despite being my wife’s former teacher, (she taught my wife in Primary Three),

Mama was very humble, calling her mummy, and always ready to help move the work of God forward.

She was not pushy, always very caring, and willing even to part with the little she had if only to make someone else happy. She was so devoted to her husband (also of blessed memory), and always ready to counsel women especially those facing challenges in their marriage to work through such with prayers,” Ige said.

For Revd Wale Adeleke, the Cathedral Chaplain, Mama Aderibigbe was a lesson in commitment. “As the vicar of one of our branches close to her house, for many years, I tried to convert her to start attending the church, but she would make me realise she and her husband had vowed not to change from attending the Cathedral. I was always visiting them, and each time, I marvel at the kind of love that existed between the two of them that has defied age,” he said.

The next day, the two sons of the late Madam Aderibigbe, Funso Adewale, an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Education, Abuja and Adeyinka Olumide Aderibigbe, led other relations among who were Prof.

Anthony Dele Afolabi, of the Department of General Studies and a former Dean of Students Affairs, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, the Chairman Ayedaade Local Government Area, Gbongan, Osun State, Evangelist Nathaniel Olusoji Arabambi, Mrs Olubanke Olubunmi Olaleye, a retired Apex Nursing Officer of the Mushin Local Government Area, Lagos, Dr. Modupeola Oyesiji, of the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Mr Olayiwola Adejumo, Mr Seye Adesigbin, Mrs Ronke Omotosho, a Vice-

Principal and Mr Patrick Kayode Afolabi, a businessman, among several others, to the entrance of the church.

Also on hand at the main entrance, were the Adesigbin led by Mama’s direct sibling Pa Abel Oluboye Adesigbin, Mr Banwo Adesigbin, a retired principal, Mr Lawrence Olarewaju, and others family members from the Oloje compound of OdeOmu, as well as their children and associates who accompanied the remains of their sister.

The brown casket bearing the remains of Mama Choir was received by the college of clergy, who after some pronouncements accepted it into the church, signalling the commencement of the funeral service.

Led by the dean, each cleric prayed for the repose of the deceased and the church’s choir took turn to render a special anthem in memory of their late member, whose tenor voice they admitted they would sorely miss.

But the church shook and everyone was left with wet eyes when members of the Young Women Progressive Society. (YWPS), a group she co-founded with other young women in the 60s, took the microphone to render their special number in memory of their departed heroine.

They, thereafter, had a replacement for mama in the group, as Mrs Aderonke Aderibigbe was announced and warmly received by the association’s leadership.

During the funeral service, Revd Adeleke, said there is hope in resurrection because Christ had died and risen. He added that all those who died in Christ did not die, but slept and there is hope that they all shall be woken up at the last day to partake in the glories of beholding the father.

Adeleke urged everyone to prepare for the end journey as procrastination might be costly.

•Evang Nathaniel Arabambi

He said though Mama was a devoted Christian, she became more committed to God when she had a personal encounter with God, over two decades ago, adding that this encounter was responsible for the recommitment she made all through her life.

Adeleke charged the congregation, particularly the family and children of the deceased to take heart, knowing that their matriarch and one of the pillars of faith in the church had gone to rest in the bosom of her maker.

The family had a thanksgiving service shortly thereafter and the clergymen led the closing procession out of the church for the interment which took place at Alabameta, the church’s cemetery in the outskirts of the town.

Modakeke’s typical hospitality was on high display at the reception which took place much later in the day on the playground of St Francis Catholic Primary School, Iraye, where a musical group manned the band stand.

The town emptied itself unto the field as they took their seat under the presidential canopy that provided a shelter from the sweltering sun and many had a feel of the hospitality of the grassroots people of Modakeke in the assorted foods and drinks to wet throat of the famished.

T’S great having you on this column again. I believe you have been putting what we have discussed so far to good use.

Remember, public speaking is not only about AMODU LANRE OLAOLU reading or learning about (Ph.D) sospeak2lanre@yahoo.com. speaking; it is mainly about 07034737394 “doing” speaking. Have you made a public presentation lately? In public speaking, you learn a lot from doing. So, find every opportunity to practice. Last week, we examined some methods of persuasion. We looked at persuading using: facts, statistical credibility, speaker’s credibility and appeals to basic human needs, wants and desires. This week, we shall be considering some of the challenges you are likely to face when persuading your audience.

Persuasion can be a lot of work, particularly when your audience does not want to be persuaded. I attended a business seminar recently and I listened to a speaker try to persuade me (as part of the audience) to make a business decision. To start with, I had no idea that the business meeting was about network marketing or I most definitely would not have showed up. I don’t consider myself a good marketer, so, I avoid any business that requires direct sales. So, there was I, sitting there and wondering why I attended. The speaker started with general information about people needing other sources of income other than from their full-time jobs.

Then we were gradually led to the main course for the day.

As interested as I was about the general direction of the speech, which was financial independence, I was absolutely disinterested in the business proposition. Suddenly, I heard the speaker mention that the business was not about selling products- you don’t even have to sell a single one! Now, that caught my attention, and from that point on, I listened with rapt attention. Whether or not I eventually decided to sign on is not even the issue; the main issue is that the speaker was able to break through my strong disinterest to get me interested. That was one talented speaker!

Anytime you have to deliver a persuasive speech, you are faced with three major categories of people: a) Those who are strongly against your idea b) Those who are in support of your idea and c) Those who are indifferent. Therefore, proper attention must be given to each of these groups.

Your greatest asset is the group in support of your idea and your greatest challenge is the group against your idea. How you manage these two groups may go a long way in determining where the “indifferent group” will belong.

Remember that even if those for you and those against you are equal in number (which is most unlikely), the third group will be the tie-breaker. A mass movement towards any side will determine your success or failure.

Now, let’s consider specific challenges you may encounter while presenting a persuasive speech: •Making the audience listen: how do you make a person listen to you when the person already knows that your motive is to “change” him or her? It is particularly difficult when your listeners already know the topic you intend to speak on. Imagine how you react when you walk past a group of shops and each of the sales persons is calling you and grabbing at you to come and buy something you don’t even need? Naturally, you turn the other way. That’s what it is like to speak to disinterested people. To deal with this, I suggest that your topic does not entirely betray your intention. Be creative in fashioning your topics. After that, identify with their positions before you present yours.

•Dealing with Attitudes towards Commitment: earlier on in our discussion on persuasive speech, we mentioned that it goes beyond making people sit passively and be informed, to encouraging them to commit to a course. This is a very sensitive part of the whole deal. I can listen to you talk about the number of children who die of malaria every day, and I can agree with you that your foundation needs a lot of money, but, must I part with my money? That’s the big question! You have to learn to bring your listeners to the point where they are willing to act.

•Dealing with Ethical Challenges: in a bid to convince the audience, several people get desperate and include some false information. Some people present half-truth just to make the audience buy an idea. This is not right. Ok, I agree that your job may depend on it, but you may be setting a trap for yourself. Don’t forget that last week we talked about the credibility of the speaker. If I ever discover that you lied to me once in your speech, I won’t trust you again. If you sell a bad product, you may have sold that first time, but you will never sell the same thing to the same person twice.

There are some strategic ways of getting your audience to listen to you, even if they don’t like your subject matter.

We will deal with those strategies next week; make sure you don’t miss them.

Dr. Amodu teaches at the Department of Mass Communication, Covenant University, Ogun State.

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SOCIETY Old students of Anwar-Ul-Islam College formerly Ahmaddiya College in Agege, a Lagos suburb, held a reunion dinner at the Sheraton Hotels, Ikeja, last Friday in commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the school. NNEKA NWANERI writes.

•From left: Prince Ajibola; Dr Adebule and Mr Pedro (SAN)

•Justice AbdulFatai Adeyinka and wife

•From right: Ambassador Musiliu Obanikoro; Alhaji Jimoh Gbadamosi and his wife, Alhaja Adebisi

•Prof Saidat Mabadeje, her husband Prof AbdulFattah Mabadeje and Alhaji Fatai Doherty

•Prof Adetoro

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•Dr Ahmed

•Mr Ipaye (left) and Mr Lateef Adams

Seeking the best for their alma mater

T is a yearly tradition. Every year, old students of Anwar-ul Islam College in Agege, Lagos gather for their reunion. This year's coincided with the celebration of their alma mater's 65th anniversary. The two-in-one celebration was held at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja last Friday. As the night wore on, the old boys and their guests kept bubbling inside the hotel's hall. The gathering was not only for merrymaking, it was also to raise fund for the school, formerly known as Ahmadiyya College.

Many of the old boys were dressed in either white or blue native attires with caps to match.

The caps were in the school colours of blue and gold. Their wives and other female guests used ipele and gele of the same colours. The hall was decorated in white, with a large banner welcoming guests, hanging on the wall over the dais where some dignitaries sat.

President of Anwaru-Ul Islam College, Agege Old Students Association (ACAOSA), Alhaji Lawal Pedro (SAN), said the school gave them an opportunity to acquire western education.

The chairman of the occasion and a former judge of the World Court, Prince Bola Ajibola, (SAN) said his love for the college reminds him of a part in Shakespeare's Macbeth which says: "The love that follows us is our problem".

He also spoke of his hero and a one time

student of the college the late Justice Olawale Elias.

"All through his life, he was instrumental to making the young ones to study law in the United Kingdom.

“He was a great contribution to Nigeria from the great Anwar-Ul Islam College, Agege. I also recall those days when we used to sit at his feet in Britain, where he will urge us to move on with our legal pursuit," he said.

In a lecture, a university teacher, Prof Sherif Adetoro, also an old boy relieved the school's yesteryear.

On a large projector slide, guests were shown the present state of the school and how the old boys want it to look like in no distant time.

Dr Abiodun Afolabi Tajudeen was given the task of raising funds.

Everyone present had something to say about the school.

Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Idiat Adebule, said the government is happy that the old boys are concerned about their school.

"School days are the best days of our lives because it was fun," said former Nigerian Ambassador to Ghana, Senator Musiliu

•Chief Olalekan Yusuf and his wife, Bimpe

PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA AND RAHMAN SANUSI

Obanikoro, an old boy.

"I am who I am today because of the college. Those formative years were so strong and that is why we honour the name of the school. We are either the best or nothing," he said.

Mr Lateef Babalola bagged the president’s award for Best Old Student; Mukaila Bashua (SAN), got the Distinguished Life award.

In attendance were Prof Saheedat Mabadeje; Senator Muniru Muse; Bolaji Ajimotokan; Lagos State Commissioner for Home

Affairs and Culture, Hon Oyinlomo Danmole; President, Anwar-Ul Islam Mission, Alhaji Mustapha Oshodi; Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr Wale Ahmed; Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Lagos, Mr Ade Ipaye; Justice Fatai Adeyinka(rtd); Mr Rahman Alarape; Muftau Ottun; Hameed Rasaq; Hameed Ogunnaike, Mukadas Akinwande; Hakeem Ogunniran; Tunde Olubando; Secretaries from different Ministries and members of the Lagos Executive Council.

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‘Unemployment cause of industrial crisis’

HE Chairman, FBN Capital, an investment firm, Mrs IbukunAwosika, has attributed the high unemployment rate in the country to challenges in the manufacturing sector.

She said in Lagos that the manufacturing sector has always provided high numbers of employment in any economy.

She said the crisis in the manufacturing sector has also impacted nega-

Stories by Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie Asst.Editor

tively on the insurance industry.

According to her, the country has not given adequate support to the manufacturing sector.

“Many factors are destroying the manufacturing sector in Nigeria and this has affected the insurance industry.

“This is the time to create a sink-

ing fund to enable the sector apply resources to compete with the Chinese.

“Even in the agricultural sector, the agro-allied industry has a value chain,” she said.

She said attention should be focused on the development of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), especially where the nation has comparative advantage.

Awosika said Nigeria must invest

in the training and tools in the sector to develop its manpower.

According to her, there cannot be industrialisation without skills acquisition.

The FBN capital chief said there is the need to create industrial clusters and communities such as fashion village, farmers market and furniture village, among others.

She said with the creation of clusters with common facilities like

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Firm launches product

RAND Oak Limited, the largest and oldest spirit and distilling company in the country, has launched into the market the Cool Twista range.

Its Managing Director, Mr. Akshay Kumar said the new product will enable the innermost desire of the upwardly mobile customers to stand out and be different by adding a positive twist to their day.

He said the company has invested in one of the world’s latest technology based on their unflinching belief in the consumer and partners.

Kumar said their drinks now come in trendy, portable, easy to dispose, tamper proof with body and bounce to add a twist to the day of the consumer. He said the supe•From left: Mr Brajesh Kumar; Commercial Director, Grand Oak Limited; Financial Controller, Mrs Folasade Adebayo; Managing Director; Mr Akshay Kumar and Chairman, Association of Hot and Wine Drink (South/West) Mr Soyemi Akeem at the launch of the product.

‘75 % of industries affected by SAP yet to be revived’ M

ORE than 75 per cent of industries that closed shop during the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) are yet to be revived 26 years after the programme.

The Managing Director, Alind Nigeria Ltd, Bauchi, Dr Ahmad MaiAbba, made the observation in

Expert seeks tax rebates for local entrepreneurs

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TAX expert, Mr Kareem Tajudeen, has called on the Federal Government to improve on its tax exemption or rebate policy to assist indigenous entrepreneurs boost their income.

Tajudeen, a partner in T.A & Co., a tax consultancy firm, in Lagos stressed the need for more tax holidays for indigenous businessmen.

“The Federal Government should extend its tax exemption programmes to many other sectors besides agroallied businesses and importation of mining equipment.

“The government must aim to encourage more investments in other industries and by implication, boost our economy, he added.“ Tajudeen said it was akin to boosting foreign direct investment in the country by extending tax rebates to foreign investors as incentive to diversify the economy.

He said: “Tax exemptions are a good source of motivation: it has a way of accelerating national development.

“Unfortunately, most businessmen do not make use of tax professionals to explore business avenues where such exemptions can be optimised to tripple their net earnings.

“Only a foolish businessman will not see value in engaging the services of tax professionals to advise them.

“It may add to overall running cost, but it is better than taking a decision that will be detrimental to the business profitability in the end.“ Tajudeen advised indigenous entrepreneurs to get more education and awareness about tax laws being implemented in the country, saying that such education serves a utilitarian value to them.

Bauchi in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mai-Abba, who talked about the prevailing economic challenges and survival of industries in Nigeria, expressed concern with the effect of SAP on the bulk of the industries across the country.

“Over 75 per cent of these industries are still dead; a visit to the industrial estates in various industrial cities in the country will throw more light on this point.

“To what extent the programme transformed the economy from mono-culture to a diversified status,

as far as I am concerned, my answer is negative.

“We all have seen the speed at which the programme killed the bulk of the industries and over 75 per cent of these industries went under.

Mai-Abba said SAP, which was meant to strengthen the naira against other currencies, ironically made the naira to depreciate to the low ebb.

He said: “In 1986, the value of the U.S. dollar to naira was 97 kobo, while the 97 kobo worth of our crude oil was equivalent of one dollar.’’

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communities that are within us and the state catchment which Bauchi is part and parcel,” he explained.

Saleh commended the company over its performance in spite of the harsh business environment the company was operating.

He said: “The performance of Ashaka PLC is encouraging, when one looks at the turbulent business environment across the world due to global economic recession.”

“As a result of this grim reality,

rior packaging and technology employed make it impossible for the products to be faked.

On some of the innovations on the products, he said they have introduced pet bottles which make it cheaper and easier for the target audience to afford it, though the company preaches responsible drinking among the youth.

The Category Manager, Mr. Charles Nnochiri said the innovations are to suit lifestyles and the changing times in product innovation. He said consumers will, henceforth, enjoy a new drinking experience in sachets and pet bottles that complement their style and pockets.

The night was filled with fun.

Those who otherwise would not taste liquor, had some.

LCCI advises govt on budget conception, implementation

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IRECTOR-General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr Muda Yusuf, has advised the Federal Government to take budget conception, preparation and implementation more seriously.

He said conception, preparation and implementation of a budget were three major determinants of its success.

Yusuf, who said these in Lagos, noted that the Federal Government should be more critical at these three major stages in budget preparation.

He said shortcomings in budget implementation in Nigeria could be attributed to the level of seriousness

Ashaka Cement banks on coal to beat competition

HE Ashaka Cement Company in Gombe State has said it will rely on coal for its operation to enable it to compete with other cement producing companies in Africa.

Its Chairman, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, said this in Bauchi when he paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji Sangir Saleh.

Kwairanga said coal to be used by the company would serve as a substitute for Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO) and gas used by huge production plants.

“We are ready to compete with any cement company not only in Nigeria but in Africa.

“Some of the cement companies may have some advantages which we may not have, because of our location, in terms of issue of gas and the rest, but we want to assure you that we were able to identify something that may replace the gas for now which is the coal.

“We are the only cement company not only in Nigeria but in West Africa that we are using coal as part of the substitution of the most expensive LPFO or and the gas we have,” he said.

Commenting on employment, he said the company does not have discriminatory ways of employment in Ashaka.

“We want to take the best but we want to take into consideration the

electricity, water and heavy equipment, the cost of industrial production would be lower.

Awosika, who is the promoter of After School Graduate Development Centre, said it is only after skills were acquired that they could be exported.

She said insurance industry, on its part, had to think of new policies and products that would support it.

the Bauchi State Government is making efforts toward maintaining micro-economic stability; and encouraging the micro, small and medium enterprises, has greatly increased the GDP from 7.5 per cent in 2010, to 20 per cent in 2012.

“The state government is also committed to encouraging investment by corporate private business organisations. To this end, government has made it a deliberate policy to provide conducive and enabling working environment for all interested investors.”

of planners at the three stages.

Yusuf said the three critical areas of conception, preparation and implementation of any budget determined its value delivery to Nigerians.

“We need to be critical at those three critical budget making stages,“ he said.

Yusuf advised that there should be capacity building in the public sector for budget planners to improve on budget planning and implementation.

“Our public servants can be better at implementing budgets through training and learning more about private sector strategies.

“The public-private partnership initiative can come handy here,“ Yusuf said.

The LCCI boss also said corruption was also affecting successful implementation of public sector budgets.

“Even where projects have been well articulated and approved, corruption often frustrates the delivery of value to Nigerians.

“There is so much talk about fighting corruption, yet there is little action and unless we address this malaise, there will be no concrete outcome from our annual budgets.

“The issue of value-for- money needs to be tackled more seriously.

“The crusade against corruption should go beyond the level of rhetoric,” he said.

‘Multiple taxes crippling hospitality business’

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ULTIPLE taxes on hotel proprietors by the government agencies could cripple thge hospitality industry, the President of Hotel Owners Forum Association (HOFA), Mr Onofiok Ekong, has said.

He disclosed this to The Nation in Lagos.

He said multiple taxes could force hotel proprietors out of business in the country, if immediate solution was not provided.

He said: “Hotel operators are faced with daunting challenges; apart from losing members of the association through closure and change of purpose.

“The lamentations of the existing

ones over multiplicity of taxes can only be ignored to the detriment of the economy.

“The government needs to engage stakeholders in a holistic discourse to enable it to understand the magnitude and dimensions of the challenges facing the industry.

“This will help to bring out recommendations that will help Nigeria have a more investment-friendly tax regime.”

Ekong, however, called on the Federal Government to take necessary steps to reverse the trend.

The HOFA chief said hoteliers pay various taxes, which had made it so difficult for them to stay afloat.

The taxes include the consumption

tax, value added tax, company income tax, withholding tax, health certificate, and waste operation permit.

Others are vehicle emission fee, contravention charges, business premises and administrative charges for environmental audit.

Ekong said the multiple taxes had contributed to the increased charges by hotels operators, saying that the numerous taxes were affecting the growth of the industry.

He said the hospitality industry contributes to the economy through payment of such taxes.

He called for urgent intervention and incentives to operators to enable the industry stay afloat.

POLITICS

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) is 50 years today. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU writes on his political ascendancy, achievements and style of governance.

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Fashola: The making of an actualiser

YES were not on the tall, slim lawyer when he joined the Tinubu Administration in 2003 as the Chief of Staff. He had filled the gap left behind by his predecessor, the shrewd and vocal politician from Kwara State, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

He resumed quietly, became a powerful and influential executive member and yet, succeeded in evading partisan politics.

The apolitical aide was loyal and faithful. He resumed work early and closed late. In the office, he was said to have deliberately behaved as a recluse.

He was firm and focused. In addition, he was meticulous and incorruptible.

Before he embarked on any course of action, he would weigh, first and foremost, the legal implications. Then, he would be less inflexible-completely adamant. Then, his boss would nod affirmatively.

At work, Babatunde Raji Fashola impressed the two-term governor, Senator Bola Tinubu. Four years later, he was catapulted from the back to the front seat. No fewer than 14 Action Congress (AC) chieftains nursed the ambition to succeed him. The party leader had likened them to the many children of the biblical Jesse, who competed for the Hebrew crown, but were not anointed by Prophet Samuel, who eventually discovered David. “The candidate is the SAN with a sound mind; Babatunde Fashola the actualiser”, intoned the master strategist, Asiwaju Tinubu, who eventually handed the baton to him.

To observers, the young technocrat was just fulfilling his destiny. Despite his huge administrative experience, Fashola started to learn the hard political ropes. Necessity compelled him to start appearing in Agbada, waving like politicians, dancing to the talking drums, mounting the rostrum at rallies, holding strategic electoral meetings with diverse stakeholders and entertaining worries about the electoral economy and scheming by the opposition.

During the governorship debate, he had an edge. As a member of the cabinet of talents and key participant in the development of the blue-print, he knew where to continue after Tinubu’s exit. His former boss, mentor and political leader had laid the solid foundation upon, which he has continued to build. Five years after, Tinubu, who exuded happiness about making the right choice, declared at his 60th birthday ceremony in Lagos that he had no regret handing over to the able lieutenant.

It is an understatement. Many peoplegovernors, ministers, diplomats- have attested to the fact that BRF is a model governor. He is not afraid to take decisions, no matter how controversial, if the action is either in the short or long term interest of the state. As the governor of the most populous state, which has been aptly described as a mini-Nigeria, Fashola, like his predecessor, has continued to shoulder heavy national and continental responsibilities.

Politically, Fashola has his strengths and weaknesses. He is a professional in politics. He is an administrator. He has brought honour to his party, political leader and the state because of his achievements. But stakeholders have not rated him high as a consum-

mate politician with an uncanny capacity for the rough game of politics.

Also, only providence will determine his next political role after his exit from the Alausa Secretariat in 2015.

Fashola also has certain constraints to contend with. Indigenes who are not ready to make sacrifice for development are not cooperating with him.

It is ironical that the people who demanded for new roads decided to sue the government for encroaching on their land when the contractors arrived on the sites to commence construction works.

Between 1999 and 2007, Tinubu Administration acquired an enviable reputation for its people – oriented programmes in all the sectors.

Through his exemplary character, courage and commitment to public welfare, he left behind worthy legacies. In post – Tinubu era, the beat goes on. At its inception, the Fashola Administration was described as a government of continuity. Now, the governor has lived up to the billing as the best man for the job.

Governor Fashola inherited a massive dosage of responsibilities. Governing a complex, plural polity and mega city posses a lot of challenges, especially in the area of re-orientating and empowering the people for full realisation of their potentials for development. On daily basis, the population is soaring, with the attendant pressure on the infrastructural facilities. All the sectors – education, health, social services – continue to yearn for improved attention.

In other climes, Lagos, the former Federal Capital Territory, should have acquired a special status. But, despite the fact that the state is the commercial headquarters, no additional penny has accrued to it from the power – loaded, distant Federal Government.

However, Fashola has remained undaunted, in spite of the predictable and unpredictable constraints. As he forged ahead, he stood before the mirror of history, using the progressive manifestos of Action Congress Nigeria(ACN) as the compass to navigate into the future.

Remarkably, he stuck to the 10-point agenda which his processor bequeathed. The result is the endless delivery of dividends of democracy.

Through good governance, accountability, transparency and zero tolerance for graft, Fashola Administration set the standard for others to emulate.

Even, the members of the opposition could not withhold respect for his transformational activities. Like King Solomon of old, the fame of the performer grew beyond the shores. As many state governors visit the state to learn useful lessons on prudent management, Lagos became a big Academy for Good Governance, with Fashola as the tutor.

The first decisive action of the administration was to clear the melting point, Oshodi, of its peculiar mess. For almost 25 years, no administration could do that. It was a no-go area. Traffic rule was restored, hoodlums were sent packing and sanity returned. At that point, it was clear that the governor meant business. Every hundred days, the governor tenders his stewardship and showcases his achievements as the servant of the people.

There is no sector that has not been revived.

Fashola Administration has aggressively embarked on massive infrastructural renewal and job creation through various policies and programmes across the sectors. The projects include road, public transportation, health, rural development, education, security, tourism, housing, agriculture, youths and sports and poverty alleviation.

The first priority was the radical upgrading of the infrastructure in the state.

Lagos needed more roads, bridges and highways. These were necessary to stimulate sustainable economic growth.

To achieve this, Fashola turned the state to a huge construction site. Prominent among them is the dualised Isheri – Olofin – Iba – LASU road. The coast is put at N6.28 billion. Commuters along the chaotic Mile 2 – Badagry Expressway have hailed the project because it has eased the traffic situation. Also, the Ajah – Badore Road, in Eti osa local government has been completed Worthy of mention is the expansion and modernisation of the Lekki – Epe Expressway. It is the first public – private ownership road project in the Sub – Saharan Africa. Previously, the first phase of the 49.4 kilometre Lagos Infrastructure Project (LIP), along the two kilometer stretch of the Ozumba Mbadiwe Waterfront, has completed. It is reputed for having a vehicular traffic in excess of 80,000 daily. Now, the people of Ikorodu will start enjoying a new road as from next year. The most populous sub-zone in the state is Alimoso. There, Fashola government decided to construct 13 major roads.

They more satisfied the yearning of the people for infrastructure development.

In the past, their traditional rulers complained that development was only restricted to the Island.

Also, along Eti- Osa/Lekki – Ajiwe/ Ajah – Ogbomo – Ikate, the administration has over 21 road projects to its credit.

In Cosmpolitan Surulere, the people have savoured 15 major roads. They include the network of roads within the guardant of Eric Moore and Bode Thomas. Funsho Williams Avenue, Surulere, was also rehabilitated. On the Island, government has upgraded and expanded 45 milometre roads, stretching across Boudillon, Alexander, Gerard and Osborne. It was consistent with the Ikoyi Model City plan.

Others include the upgrading and reconstruction of five major roads in Lagos Island to High Street status i.e.

Brook (125m), Odunlami (212m), Martins (176m), Campbell and Adeniji Adele (134m) as part of the implementation of the third phase of the Lagos Central Business District Project; the upgrading of the 45km Ago – Palace way extension, Okota – Isolo, and construction of Okota – Itire overhead link bridge/ road, about 998.5m, to ease traffic snarls and enhance mobility between communities in Apapa, Amuwo, Mushin, Surulere, Oshodi/Isolo and Alimoso areas, and the construction of Adetokunbo Ademola Street extension and Victoria Island, Phase II, to improve traffic connectivity and complement the Lekki – Epe expressway.Lagos Mainland, including Muritala Mohammed Way (5.0km), Herbert Macaulay (5.973m) and Oyingbo/Ido (1350m).

Also, there have been construction of pedestrian bridges at Sanya bus stop,

• Gov. Fashola

‘Many people-governors, ministers, diplomats- have attested to the fact that BRF is a model governor. He is not afraid to take decisions, no matter how controversial, if the action is either in the short or long term interest of the state.

As the governor of the most populous state, which has been aptly described as a mini-Nigeria, Fashola, like his predecessor, has continued to shoulder heavy national and continental responsibilities’ However, the most laudable is the award of design contract for the transformation of Lagos – Badagry Expressway into a 10 lane international highway, complete with pedestrian walkways, Bus Rapid Transit light rail tracts, pipe ducts and dramage channels.

Owing to large scale human traffic and economic activities, Lagos environment is exposed to abuse. This has implications for ecological balance, public health and human development. To ensure environmental sustainability and promote well being, Fashola Administration took some revolutionary steps.

Under the “Operation Green Lagos,” the government embarked on aggressive greening and beautification of open spaces, decrepit loops, verges and medians. Now, there are luxuriant vegetation and aesthetically appealing sites across the state’s strategic neighbourhood.

Notable beautiful sites are Alausa, Ikeja Secretariat, its environs, old Lagos State Toll Gate, Oworonsoki Interchange, Lagos – Marina Water front, Ojota Curve, Simpson Street, Adeniji Adele Interchange and Ikoyi.

Government also embarked on the social rehabilitation and economic empowerment of the Area Boys. They were hired for the beautification and landscaping. This included in them the dignity of labour. In the interim, they earned a living.

Remarkably, the Olusosun land filled was upgraded. Three access roads were constructed to tackle the Oregun perennial traffic. Eight deodorizers were also installed to eliminate pollution, thereby enhancing air quality and public health of the adjoining neighbourhoods.

In addition, 240 waste collection trucks and three Tana giant land fill compactors were procured for efficient management of wastes at land fills. It was the first in Africa. In over 2,000

locations, Dino bins were introduced, illegal dump sites were evacuated at 10 locations. The more was to foster waste disposal and environmental culture.

The dumb sites were located at Obele Oniwala in Surulere, Oba Ogunji Street, Agege, Opebi, Ikeja, Aba, Eti Osa and Festac Gate, Amuwo. The government also established the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and built seven mini-fire stations in seven locations, including Palm Shopping Mall, Lekki, Simpson Street, Ojo – Alaba market, Ikotun, Oriade and Apapa Dockyard.

Rescue equipment were purchased to rescue victims of fire disasters during emergencies for improved response to distress calls, four fire stations in Alausa, Isolo, Ikeja and Agege were rehabilitated while 250 fire officers were recruited.

Transportation in Lagos State is usually chaotic. This is because six million passengers hustle daily between Lagos Mainland and Island. The mini buses that convey them are regulated. The drivers are not trained. Lagos has the highest vehicular density of 222 vehicles per kilometer. Motorised transportation accounts for more than 90 per cent of passenger and freight traffic.To maintain a clean break from the past, the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport rolled out 100 high capacity blue buses on March 17, 2008. The exercise signaled the launch of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. Again, it is first in Black Africa.The next level is the Lagos Urban Transport Project (LUTP), assisted by the World Bank on segregated lanes to ease intra-city road traffic and enhance commuters welfare.

The contract for the design of the proposed ultra-modern Lagos Light Rail Mass transit System was awarded.

Lagosians are full of nostalgia, because the same project was frustrated by the military intervention in politics when it was initiated by former Governor Lateef Jakande in the Second Republic.

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CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

Why bank fraud persists, by police chief F AILURE of banks and other financial institutions to follow due process in employing their staff is the root cause of frauds in the sector, Commissioner of Police in charge of the Special Fraud Unit (SFU), Ikoyi, Lagos, Mr Tunde Ogunsakin, said yesterday.

He said that the financial institution's carelessness in properly screening applicants before employment often results in insiders' connection in most fraud cases that had been investigated by his unit.

Ogunsakin, who spoke on current trends in bank fraud, said: "In recent times, Electronic Banking Fraud has taken the lead in all manners of bank frauds in Nigeria. The reason for this can hardly be farfetched. In a world where Information Technology has become a veritable foundation of modern- day-banking in a cashless environment, it is quite natural for fraudsters to devise their own criminal means and motives to circumvent the system.

"The ambivalence of measures put in place by government regulators for the commercial banks/players to guarantee security of access and terminals which provide tools for

Expert stresses need for innovation in public service

T

By Jude Isiguzo, Police Affairs Correspondent

e-products delivery notwithstanding, the fraudsters are always relentless to thwart these efforts. This fact is underpinned by regularly reported cases at the Police Special Fraud Unit involving frauds perpetrated through Automated Teller Machines (ATM), Mobile Telephony Banking, Internet Banking, Electronic (Wire) Instruction Transfer of Funds, Point of Sales (POS) Banking and Credit/Debit Cards Scheme.

"The commonest among Electronic Banking Fraud is the Money Transfer (Wire) Instruction Schemes, where either the bank customers account passwords are either stolen or hacked into, or where the security pass codes of bank officials are compromised through the bank's electronic platform, which is then illegally intruded upon by fraudsters.”

He gave other factors as inordinate tolerance for corruption among public and private agencies; deteriorating quality of graduates in terms of professional value and ethics; chronic unemployment among graduates; weakness of the existing legislative/judicial institutions to make and enforce relevant

laws on cyber crimes; inadequate training; poor recruitment policies; increasing and changing sophistication in technological equipment; and weak internal control of banking system.

The police chief noted that to reduce the spate of bank frauds in general, commercial banks must strictly adhere to the guidelines on Electronic Banking in Nigeria (August 2003) issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He added that the cashless economy has graciously checkmated unwholesome cash circulation particularly in Lagos and other major commercial cities.

Ogunsakin listed some of SFU's challenges as lack of wellequipped forensic laboratories; data base of criminals, inadequate legislation; cost of investigation; inadequate working tools; inadequate collaboration with private sector; and inadequate international collaborative framework among others.

its actions on activities that would reduce flooding.

Besides, he informed that his ministry has embarked on massive dredging, cleaning and maintenance of drainage channels ahead of the predicted rains.

Bello, however, urged residents to be on the alert but remain calm as government has put in place measures to contain flooding challenges.

He re-assured residents that government would go to any length to protect lives and properties in the State of Aquatic Splendor.

The commissioner was quoted as saying in a statement: "Lagosians must desist from the habits of dumping refuse in drainage channels

and acts compromising drainage alignment, such as building and erection of stalls on drainage setbacks among others.

"The essence is to allow easy passage of rainstorm which is ultimate goal of this administration."

He warned that environmental sanitation law enforcers including; the police and officials of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), have been fully mobilised to enforce compliance.

He reminded inter-state travelers to obey the rules as ignorance cannot be an excuse for offenders.

•CP Ogunsakin

Monthly sanitation holds in Lagos tomorrow

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HERE will restrictions on vehicular and pedestrian movements tomorrow in Lagos between 7am and 10am, the state government has announced.

Environment Commissioner Tunji Bello, who dropped the hint, urged Lagosians to observe the monthly sanitation programme by cleaning up drains and canals within their neighbourhood.

He said the cleaning and clearing of drains and canals became necessary following meteorologist warnings that Lagos and other states in the Southwest will experience heavy downpour and severe thunderstorms this year.

According to him, the state government has concentrated

A

BOUT seven communities in Ibarapa East Local Government Area of Oyo State have called on Governor, Abiola Ajimobi to extend social infrastructure to them to guarantee security.

According to the communities Opete, Baale, Alagba, Baara, Ape, Abule Ilorin and Lagaye, while other communities enjoy dividends of democracy, potable water, electricity, healthcare and access roads to the outside world remain alien to thier communities.

Some residents of Baara village told The Nation that crippling underdevelopment, poverty and insecurity have become their lot in the communities.

A resident, who identified himself asKunle Kabiru, said the community has been under siege of armed bandits who raid houses and shoot people at will.

The Nation's investigations at Ilorin, Alagbaa, Opete and Lagaje communities revealed that child marriage is a constant phenomenon as chil-

Communities want speedy development

By Biodun-Thomas Davids

dren are given out in marriages for financial gains.

It was also gathered that all the villages had no primary school conducive for learning as children are being taught under the trees by volunteer teachers. The only primary school building could be found at Baale. It was built by the African Church Missionaries in 1959. In all the communities, only one indigene has ever attained Varsity education, the student Chukwu Monday Chidozie gained admission into the University of Ibadan to study Animal Science two years ago.

Chidozie lamented the grinding poverty that could have derailed his educational dreams: "Before I could finish my secondary education at Obaseku High School, Eruwa, and sat for Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, I did a lot of farming.

"I chose to study Animal Science in order to bring a change to farming methods in our village and be a source of encouragement to the younger ones.".

Chairman of Ibarapa East Local Government Area, Lanre Olaosegba, identified neglect by past administrations as responsible for the state of underdevelopment in the communities.

Olaosegba told The Nation that his administration has embarked on various developmental projects but noted that it will come in phases as the council's resources cannot match the work on the ground.

"We have graded about 293 kilometers of roads in different villages of the local government and we are still working on Lagaye and Awodeji road. Also we are clearing the bush at old Ibadan road that leads to Opete and Alagbaa," he said.

O respond to the demands of a highly informed citizenry and push the frontiers of development, public service managers must continue to be creative and innovative.

The Director -General, Lagos State Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC), Mrs. Olubunmi Fabamwo, gave the charge while addressing middle-cadre officers of the Lagos State Public Service at the closing ceremony of a two-day capacity building programme entitled: "Strategy Formulation in the Public Service" held at the Centre's Magodo premises.

Fabamwo said the Centre organised the programme in place "to take middle level managers out of operational thinking and inspire strategic

P

consciousness in middle level Public Servants with a view to building succession plans in the State Public Service."

While reiterating the state government's commitment to building critical capacity in all areas of the public service, she added that it was important Public Service delivers public goods that would sustain confidence as well as enhance the perception and acceptance of government by the people.

The Director-General expressed satisfaction that participants confirmed exposure to critical elements of strategy formulation including strategic assessment, intent and choices, the deployment of diagnostic strategic thinking tools, as well as the application

of strategic principles in managing stakeholder expectations in the delivery of strategy documents particularly the Medium Term Sector Strategy (MTSS) and Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) in the state.

Earlier in a communiqué, participants, who were drawn from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), expressed confidence in their new ability to craft vision and mission statements as well as apply the principles of strategic thinking in the delivery of their official responsibilities. participantsappreciated the government for its focused approach noting that the structured capacity building training had enhanced performance in the service.

LBS maintains global ranking

AN Atlantic University (PAU), formerly the Lagos Business School has pledged its commitment to continue to develop talents in Africa through programmes specifically targeted at organizations that have a pan-African outlook as well as those seeking to develop the next generation of leaders.

Dean of the institution, Enase

C

By Yinka Aderibigbe

HALLENGED by corruption, unrest and injustice in Nigeria, especially among the youth, training and mentoring group, Vasmen Global Network (VGN), has concluded plans for a conference to promote peace and justice and make young people become global changers.

The conference with the theme: "Creating Direction for Peace and Justice," will hold between August 21 and 23 at St John, Canada.

By Sampson Unamka

Okonedo, who made this pledge at a dinner organized by Lagos Business School Alumni Association recently also added that the school has maintained its position in the global ranking conducted by the Financial Times of London.

Okonedo: "I am very proud to announce that we have maintained our ranking in the finan-

cial times of London ranking."

This year, we have been ranked 55th in the world in open enrollment courses. We remain the second in Africa, the first in West Africa and we are aspiring to reach number one."

She further said the school has inculcated in its students the desired value and ethics required to make a difference in the society.

Peace conference to hold in Canada VGN's lead strategist, Ambassador Sam Afolabi, said the conference would to re-direct the focus of youths towards nation building and encourage global networking for ideas sharing and vision building.

He said: "There is no peace in Nigeria and this has caused high rate of injustice. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening and

it is sad that the youth have imbibed this philosophy that if you are not corrupt, you can't succeed.

“We want to change that; we want as many Nigerians to be part of this life-changing conference in Canada, with global leaders."He added that VGN representatives would be at Eko Hotel & Suites to register participants.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

54

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 27- 06-13

UACN finalises terms with new investor U AC of Nigeria (UACN) Plc is finalising working agreements with new strategic investor in its restaurant business as the conglomerate seeks to consolidate growths across business segments.

UACN had recently restructured its two remaining divisions- MDS Logistics and UAC Restaurants – into limited liability companies. It subsequently entered into a strategic partnership with Imperial Mobility BV under which the South African international logistics company bought 49 per cent of UACN’s 100 per cent equity in MDS Logistics.

Chairman, UAC of Nigeria (UACN) Plc, Senator Udoma Udoma, confirmed the ongoing arrangements with new strategic investor while addressing shareholders of the company’s at the annual general meeting (AGM) in Lagos.

He said the board of the conglomerate was reviewing terms of agreement with the potential strategic investor in the UAC Restaurants Limited.

Although Udoma did not disclose the details of the agreements, some analysts said the strategic investment may also take the hue of the agreement on MDS Logistics, giving the conglomerate the opportunity to maintain control while allowing for equity injection to fuel growth.

Udoma said UACN’s spree of acquisitions and strategic partnerships are in line with the conglomerate’s strategic objective of building a portfolio of brands and businesses with strong growth potentials in the Nigerian economy.

He said the conglomerate expects to conclude other strategic partnership initiatives in

•NSE sustains recovery with N118b gain

By Taofik Salako

the course of the year.

According to him, the conglomerate would over the next three years focus on consolidating its holding company architecture, which is aimed at delivering empowered and capable subsidiaries, to assure sustained shareholder value enhancement.

“Our company will continue to sustain growth in all our existing and acquired businesses despite the environmental constraints and in line with our mission to grow our top-line significantly above Nigeria’s annual GDP growth rate,’’ Udoma assured.

He said that going forward; UAC Foods Limited will further grow its capacity in response to increasing demand while Grand Cereals Limited will also increase capacity in the Feeds category.

He pointed out that UACN had made significant progress in its growth drive with the conclusion of its acquisition of majority stakes in Livestock Feeds Plc even as it tidies up similar agreement with Portland Paints and Products Plc. Audited report and accounts of UACN for the year ended December 31, 2012 showed that group turnover rose by 17 per cent from N59.64 billion in 2011 to N69.63 billion. Operating profit grew by 49 per cent from N7.72 billion to N11.53 billion. Profit before tax rose by 54 per cent to N10.75 as against N6.99 billion in previous year. Profit after tax doubled from N3.41 billion to

N7.10 billion. Shareholders approved gross dividend of N2.56 billion, representing dividend per share of N1.60, in addition to a bonus of one new share for every five ordinary shares already held.

Meanwhile, equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) continued on the upward yesterday with nearly three advancers against any decliner. Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities rose by N118 billion to N11.522 trillion as against its opening value of N11.404 trillion.

The All Share Index (ASI), the main index at the NSE, improved by 1.03 per cent from 36,095.28 points to 36,468.25 points, pushing the average year-to-date return at the stock market to 29.88 per cent.

Julius Berger Nigeria led 48 other stocks on the gainers’ list with a gain of N6.09 to close at N66.99. Presco followed with a gain of N3.59 to close at N41.14. Flour Mills of Nigeria added N2.95 to close at N87.45.

Total Nigeria gained N2.75 to close at N160 while Okomu Oil Palm closed with a gain of N1.85 at N45.10 per share.

On the downside, Mobil Oil Nigeria topped the 17-stock losers’ list with a loss of N11.90 to close at N107.10. International Breweries followed with a loss of N2.50 to close at N24.50. Cadbury Nigeria lost N1 to close at N54 while Evans Medical dropped by 33 kobo to close at N2.97 per share.

Investors staked a total of N4.09 billion on 357.27 million ordinary shares of 50 kobo each in 6,419 deals. Banking subsector remained the most active with a turnover of 153.11 million shares valued at N1.88 billion in 2,448 deals.

Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp) was the most active stock with turnover of 59.03 million shares valued at N77.72 million in 170 deals.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 27- 06-13

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

55

MONEY LINK

Cash-less policy: Reps seek phased execution M EMBERS of the House of Representatives were unanimous in their views that the cashless economy policy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should be implemented in phases across the country.

The lawmakers took cognisance of the variance in availability of electricity supply and access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) among other infrastructures in different parts of the country.

However, some of the lawmakers that opposed the bill seeking the phased implementation of the policy opined that the opposition was borne out of fear of taking initiatives as well as lacking capacity to be creative.

Yakubu Dogara (PDP, Bauchi), who sponsored the bill with 52 others, said the country lacks the requisite infrastructural facilities to operate it without harming the economy and over 70 percent of the Nigerian population.

He said: “To drive development and modernisation of payment system in line with the country’s Vision 2020, an efficient and modern payment system is positively correlated with economic development and key enabler for economic growth.

“Unlike the Central Banks in the developed economies such as Federal Reserves of US and Bank of England, the CBN faces a large size of informal sector”.

Besides, Dogara noted that Lagos, where the CBN started the policy radically varies from other States and as such should not be the benchmark for other parts of the country.

“Furthermore, the cashless policy being implemented in Nigeria has possible implication of cost saving in the financial sector but does not

From: Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

necessarily imply real sector growth and does not have human development as a focus of an economic development.

“Majority of retail and commercial payments are made in cash from a large percentage of the population who are totally unbanked and who may be persuaded by the fear of losing a whopping 3 per cent or 5 per cent of their sales and/ or the whole business to hoard money and remain unbanked,” he added.

According to him, the inadequate financial infrastructure in the country cannot meet the demands of a cash-less society, “Even the CBN has not achieved the required 40 per cent expansion of ATMs, point of sale, mobile banking and others media even in urban areas.

“Absence of power to accommodate smooth operations of financial activities and the massive low literacy level

lead to loss of jobs for millions of Nigerians due to the prevailing cashbased economy of the country.

According to her, the Government should among others put in place the required infrastructures, initiate means of apprehending scammers and put in place enabling laws that would guarantee appropriate sanctions for offenders.

Jerry Manwe (PDP, Taraba), Hakeem Munir (ACN, Lagos) Sam Tsokwa (PDP, Taraba), Farouk Lawan (PDP, Kano) Abubakar Momoh (ACN, Edo) and others also spoke in favour of the bill while Emmanuel Jimeh (PDP. Benue) and Peter Akpatason (ACN,Edo) said it was fear of the unknown that was responsible for the opposition to the bill.

According to Jimeh, Nigerians ought not to expect all the lacking infrastructures to be in place before such polices should be implemented.

He said the policy would rather encourage Nigerians to embrace literacy and move forward.

In their resolution, CBN was advised to implement the policy in phases, moving from cash-based to

in the country would discourage citizens from embracing the policy.

“In addition, the activities of fraudsters and the near absence of protection for the e-users might result in a total loss of confidence in the system,” he added.

Aisha Ahmed (PDP, Adamawa) said issue of infrastructure should not be handled with levity, stressing that scammers would only find it easier to take undue advantage of unsuspecting bank customers.

She noted that while Nigeria has not been able to apprehend or prosecute any Internet scammer due to unavailable capacity, countries such as India and others have performed creditably well by curbing the threat and improving their economies.

She cited the impersonation of the CBN Governor, Lamido Sanusi, whose email and Facebook accounts were hacked by Internet scammers.

She also stressed that the policy, if implemented without caution would

D

IAMOND Bank Plc expects to launch a $550 million bond next month and hopes for a 10-year maturity, its chief finance officer said told Reuters. He said the lender’s road show ended without a deal yet.

The mid-tier lender ended a twoweek investor road show to Britain, Switzerland and the United States last week, which was meant to update fund managers on the bank and gauge appetite for the issue, CFO Abdulrahman Yinusa said.

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

“The issue as well as the pricing will happen sometime in July. We have only done the road show,” Yinusa told said, adding that the bank wanted to raise a maximum of $550 million.

Several emerging market borrowers, including Nigeria itself, have held road shows in recent weeks, but the United States Federal Reserve’s talk of winding down its money-pumping programme has kept new issues to a minimum.

Yinusa said the bank had met Goldman Sachs and Fidelity fund

managers, among other investors during the road show. The road show was arranged by lead managers for the bond, France’s BNP Paribas and Afrexim Bank.

A banking source said two weeks ago that Diamond Bank wanted to issue the bond at a yield of six to eight per cent, mirroring the seven per cent yield that rival lender Fidelity Bank fetched on its $300 million Eurobond issue in May. Depending on the pricing and tenor, Diamond could settle for an

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

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 27-06-13

SYMBOL AFRIPRUD COSTAIN PORTPAINT JBERGER JOHNHOLT NAHCO TRANSCORP CHAMPION DNMEYER IPWA

O/PRICE 1.70 1.40 3.70 60.90 1.30 6.01 1.21 5.85 1.32 0.62

C/PRICE 1.87 1.54 4.07 66.99 1.43 6.61 1.33 6.43 1.45 0.68

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

CHANGE 0.17 0.14 0.37 6.09 0.13 0.60 0.12 0.58 0.13 0.06

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

O/PRICE

MOBIL EVANSMED IHS PAINTCOM PRESTIGE INTBREW RTBRISCOE JAPAULOIL ETERNA NEM

119.00 3.30 2.05 1.85 0.63 27.00 1.53 0.54 3.40 0.75

C/PRICE 107.10 2.97 1.85 1.67 0.57 24.50 1.41 0.50 3.30 0.73

CHANGE 11.90 0.33 0.20 0.18 0.06 2.50 0.12 0.04 0.10 0.02

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

NSE CAP Index

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 27-06-13

SYMBOL

amount between $300 million and $550 million, Yinusa said, noting that it will issue a minimum maturity of seven years in order for the bond to qualify as Tier II capital on its books.

The report said the proposed 10year bond will be callable after five years and will be listed on the Irish Stock Exchange. Diamond Bank, with a B credit rating and stable outlook from Fitch, has said it intends to use the bond proceeds to fund lending to the oil and gas, power and infrastructure sectors in the country.

DATA BANK

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

cash-less and finally cash-less, commensurate with the available technical and financial infrastructure at each stage.

The CBN was also urged to remove the charges and/or limits on daily cumulative withdrawal and deposits to encourage small businesses and Nigerians in general as has been done for the Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs. The Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal put it to voice vote and it was unanimously supported.

‘Diamond Bank to launch $550m bond in July’

FGN BONDS

NIDF NESF

•Sanusi

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE INVE 139.16 139.16 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 165.11 163.93 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.16 1.16 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.16 1.15 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 100.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 1,000.00 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,817.23 1,808.06 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 14.39 13.69 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 1.33 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 1.80 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 12,214.81 11,854.08 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE • OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

56

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

57

NEWS

32 killed as Fulani gunmen attack Plateau villages T HIRTY-ONE people were killed yesterday when suspected Fulani gunmen attacked Bolgan, Karkashi and Magama villages in Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The suspected Fulani gunmen allegedly invaded the villages in the early hours of yesterday, setting several homes ablaze.

At the time of filing this report, over 3,000 displaced persons from the villages had relocated to Mabudi, the headquarters of the local government.

Most of them were occupying primary schools and markets for shelter. Majority of them were women, children and the aged.

Most of the primary and secondary schools in Mabudi were closed down to allow the displaced persons have shelter.

It was learnt that secondary school pupils, who are writing their National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations were mostly affected by the attack.

Mathew Ponfa, a resident of Mabudi, said he lost two of his younger brothers and his sister-in-law to the attack.

According to him, several households in the villages could not find their relations.

Ponfa said scores of villagers were still combing the bushes in desperate search for their relatives.

•Over 3,000 displaced, 100 houses burnt •Police: we’ve not been briefed From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

An eyewitness said the gunmen chased their victims on motorcycles and shot them at close range.

Bolgang, it was learnt, was razed down by the gunmen after they killed nine residents.

Other residents escaped to different directions.

The attackers killed the villagers and burnt their homes as men of the Special Task Force (STF) on Jos Crises, code-named Operation Safe Haven, reportedly failed to respond to the villagers’ distress calls.

A source said the casualties would have been minimal, if the troops had responded early when they were told the gunmen were on their way to attack the villages.

It was also learnt that the death toll at Magama was the highest. The victims were said to be mostly children and the aged.

Rev. Nandip Miri, the chairman of the Regional Church Council (RCC) of the Church of Christ in Nation (COCIN), said he lost his aged father and brother, among other relatives, in the attack.

The senator representing

Plateau South in the National Assembly, Victor Lar, expressed shock over the renewed violence.

He described the situation as unfortunate. The senator noted that the government has done all it could to restore peace in the zone.

Lar urged the people to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies, who he said are empowered to deal with such situations.

But the police command said it had not been briefed on the attack and could, therefore, not confirm the casualty figure.

The Chairman, Management Committee of Langtang South Local Government Area, Nanman Darko, however, confirmed the attack.

He said over 32 people from the local government were killed by the suspected Fulani gunmen.

The council chief explained that following his report to the STF, troops were moved to the affected villages to restore order and prevent further attacks.

Darko said yesterday’s attack was the worst the residents had witnessed in recent time.

He described the gunmen as heartless and barbaric.

Banker arrested for stealing customer’s N4.7m A BANKER, identified as Robert Olusegun, was among the 3,241 suspects arrested by the Kano State Police Command between January and June this year for various criminal offences.

Police Commissioner Musa Daura addressed reportersn in Kano yesterday on the mid-year scorecard of the command yesterday, where the suspects were paraded.

He said assorted weapons were recovered from suspects.

Daura said Robert allegedly conspired with another accomplice, now at large, and attacked a customer of the bank where he worked with a pistol and a knife when the bank’s customer

was on his way to deposit the money.

He said: “They (suspects) robbed him of N4,755,200. The suspects were vigorously pursued by members of the community and Robert was arrested with the money. One revolver pistol loaded with three live ammunitions and a knife were recovered from him. Investigation is on top gear to arrest the fleeing suspect.”

The police chief said in the last six months, items recovered

T

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

from robbers include two AK 47 rifles, 60 rounds of live ammunitions, nine locally made pistols, 47 cartridges, huge scissors, cutlasses and house breaking implements.

He said 52 robbery cases were recorded within the period while recovered stolen property include 30 vehicles (of various brands), 98 GSM handsets, jewelry, pumping machines, electric generators, cable fuses from vandalised Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) installations, among others.

Police parade suspected attackers of HE Kwara State Police Command yesterday paex-Offa council chair raded three suspected at-

tackers of former Chairman of Offa Local Government Area, Prince Saheed Popoola, in Ilorin, the state capital.

The suspects are Lukman Ariwajoye, Musliyu Olarinoye and Kabiru Oluaye.

Some military men last weekend foiled an alleged assassination attempt on the former council chairman after about 10 selfconfessed Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) thugs waylaid him at a restaurant in the ancient city.

The command also paraded a Physics graduate, a National Diploma (ND) holder of Business Administration and another suspect for the alleged murder of Dr Ariyo Adewumi in

April.

The late Dr Adewumi, of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), was reportedly shot dead at his Basin home in Ilorin on the 18th of April this year by unknown gunmen.

Ex-council chairman Popoola told how hoodlums arrived the restaurant around 7pm last Friday. He said they challenged anyone belonging to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to a fight.

Popoola added that the hoodlums afterwards began shooting into the air and brandishing dangerous weapons, including broken bottles.

Police spokesperson Olufemi Fabode, a Deputy Superintend of Police (DSP), said a team of military men arrested the suspects on June 21 and handed them over to the police in Offa.

Fabode explained that one of the suspects was in possession of a locally made pistol, two live cartridges and a charm.

He said: “The suspects and others at large were confirmed to have attacked the former council chairman, who was relaxing at a cool spot in the ancient town. It was the dragging of the former chairman by the arrested suspects and others at large that drew the attention of the army personnel there.

Dangote Cement assures on price, quality stability

D

ANGOTE Cement Plc has assured that it would continue to stabilise the price of its products without compromising the quality.

The company said this would create reasonable profit for its stakeholders in the building industry, especially the block moulders.

The Group Executive Director, Sales and Marketing, Knut Ulvemoen, gave the assurance when he spoke at a sensitisation workshop in Abuja for block makers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its environs.

The workshop was organised by Standards Organisation

of Nigeria (SON) and sponsored by Dangote Cement Plc. Knut decried the prevalence of substandard sandcrete blocks.

He explained that some block makers, in the attempt to miximise profit, used the wrong blend of cement and sand, causing defects in structures.

Tambuwal to deliver NIM lecture Tuesday

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OUSE of Representatives Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal will, next Tuesday, deliver this year’s Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) lecture titled: The Role of the Legislature on Economic, infrastructural and Ethical Revolution in Nigeria.

The Speaker is expected to

By Nneka Nwaneri

explain why ineffective legislature has been the bane of the nation’s development since the dawn of Nigeria’s democracy.

He will also speak on the need for an urgent solution to the nation’s leadership challenges, which is threaten-

ABU alumni hold dinner, awards

Akinadewo for burial today

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

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HE Old Students’ Association of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, will hold annual lecture/dinner and awards on Subday.

A statement by the Public Relations Officer Madina Azaki said the three-in-one event will hold at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The lecture, according to the Abuja branch chairperson of the association, Mrs Salamatu Suleiman, would address the security challenges in the country, which have claimed several innocent lives and damaged the economy.

A renowned professor of Criminology, Prof. Femi Odekunle, will speak on: Peace and Security - Panacea for National Development.

Mrs Suleiman restated the need for peace and advised Nigerians to fight insecurity.

She said there is no alternative to peace, adding that it is only with it that development can be guaranteed.

ing the economic, infrastructural and ethical revolution.

Tambuwal is also expected to speak on the role of the legislature in making these lofty ideals realisable.

A brainstorming session on burning and contemporary leadership issues of national importance will be held and solutions proffered.

•The late Akinadewo

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HE first Director-General of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), Prof Rufus Oluyemi Akinadewo, who died on May 7, will be buried today in Lagos.

A statement by Senior Superintendent Gabriel Akinadewo, on behalf of the Akinadewo-Adekahunsi family, said the remains of the deceased would be interred at the Mercyland of his church, The Lord Mountain of Salvation, Arowolo, Idimu, Lagos.

The late professor was born on January 23, 1946, into the family of St.Benjamin Akinadewo Adekahunsi.

He was 67.

The late Prof Akinadewo

was a medical doctor, an international scholar, a civil servant and church leader.

He became the first directorgeneral of NNMDA in 1997 when it was established by the Federal Government. Before then, he had served for several years in the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology.

The late Prof Akinadewo held several key positions within and outside the country.

They include the Coordinator, National Expert Committee (NEC) on Traditional Medicine; Director, Ministry of Science and Technology, Visiting International Chairman, Hong Kong Traditional Medicine Board; International Vice President, Nigeria Agency for the Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS and Cancer and President, Nigeria China Academy of Natural Medicine.

An alumnus of Howard University, the United States (U.S.), the late scholar was instrumental to the Beijing 2000 Conference in China. He led the Nigerian delegates with the then Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Pauline Tallen.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

58

NEWS

Protest unsettles local content board

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HE protest by youths in Bayelsa State against the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has unsettled the board.

It was gathered that members of the board were unhappy at the demonstration held in Bayelsa, the state of President Goodluck Jonathan.

They were said to be jittery at the implication of the protest, which attracted negative publicity from the media.

Hundreds of angry youths

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

on Monday stormed the headquarters of the board, accusing its members of neglecting them in the local content implementation.

The Board’s Executive Secretary, Ernest Nwapa, was forced to hold a meeting with the youths.

It was learnt that Nwapa and some members of the board met with the youths, led by Bright Igrubia, on Wednesday at the board’s headquarters.

Court resolves 30-year kingship tussle

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N Edo State High Court sitting in Igarra, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area has delivered judgment in the Atte community kingship tussle, which has spanned over 32 years.

The court set aside a government gazette of the defunct Bendel State government in 1979, which declared that the customary law of succession to the clan headship stool of Atte was hereditary.

The gazette also restricted the clan headship stool to one of the families of the 13 kindreds making up the royal family in the community.

But the court ruled that the clan headship stool should rotate between the two ruling houses of Atte -Irhofo and Ewure- and declared that the traditional stool was still vacant.

Justice Aigbuloko Oyakhirome held that the content of the Chieftaincy Declaration 162 of 1979 “is in variance with and does not reflect the customary law governing the succession to the throne of the Ogiewa of Atte”.

“Imioveka family is not a

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

ruling house in Atte. What credible evidence has revealed is that the Imioveka family is a kindred of Ewure ruling house entitled to produce the Ogiewa when succession rotates to its turn under the Emure Ruling House.

“Imioveka as a sole ruling house does not have the support of history, custom or tradition of Atte.

The plaintiffs are Adamu Shelu, Oba Garuba, Friday Brai, Steven Aduro, Samuel Dania and Desmond Agbabokhai for themselves and on behalf of the Irhiogio Ruling House.

Others are Francis Osunde, Simple Afemukha, S.A Lawani, Sunday Afekhuma and C.A Ogedegbe for themselves and on behalf of the Ewure Ruling House.

The defendants are the Edo State governor, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, John Ishumu Daudu and Benson Baso for himself and on behalf of the Imioveka Family of Atte.

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UNIPORT Four: Suspects’ trial suffers another setback

HE trial of the 11 suspected killers of four undergraduates of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) at Umuokiri Aluu in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State last October has suffered another setback.

The lack of legal representation for three of the accusedIkechukwu Loius Amadi, Ellis Chinasa Opara and Ozioma- caused the setback.

Ugonna Obuzor(18), Toku Lloyd (20), Chiadika Biringa(20) and Tekena Elkanah(21) were accused of stealing phones and laptops.

They were attacked and lynched by a mob at Aluu, a community close to the University on October 5, last year.

Eighteen persons, including the ruler of the community, Hassan Welewa, a woman, some students and a retired police sergeant, were arrested.

A Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) report exonerated seven of them, and said the others, including the mon-

•Victim’s dad complains of delay

From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

arch, have a case to answer.

When the matter came up in March, Justice T.S. Orji rejected the file, on the grounds of her relationship with both parties.

According to her, she hails from Okrika, the hometown of two of the victims (Tekena Elkanah and Lloyd Mike Toku), she is married to Aluu the scene of crime.

Besides the trio, the others were represented.

Welewa was represented by a former president of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), OCJ Okocha. This is the third time he is changing his lawyer since the case began.

The state’s Solicitor-General, Rufus N. Godwins, led other lawyers, including the DPP, Ibikiri Otorubio.

Yesterday was supposed to be the formal arraignment and taking of plea of the accused, but for lack of legal representation.

Justice L.L. Nyordee of the state High Court said the accused would be allowed to give their pleas when all of them get legal representation.

He said the matter would be directed to the Legal Aid Council for assistance.

Nyordee said: “Owing to the critical nature of the matter and the fact that the charge against the accused is capital in nature, and because some of the accused persons have no legal representation, especially the third, fourth and 10th accused persons, it is obvious that they do not have money to hire a lawyer to represent them.

“Plea for all the accused persons will be delayed pending

when they all get legal representation.

“The attention of the Legal Aid Council will be drawn to this development, so they can assist by providing legal representation for the three accused persons.”

The judge later enquired from them whether they would like to represent themselves or they would like a lawyer to represent them.

Each of them expressed the desire to be represented by a lawyer.

The case was adjourned till August 1.

The father of one of the victims, Friday Elkanah, said the matter is unnecessarily delayed.

He said: “The case has been delayed so much, this incident happened last year. Till now nothing seems to be happening. Let the government do well to facilitate the proceedings. All I want is justice.”

Stakeholders disagree on zoning in Rivers PDP T HE ex-leader of the Niger Delta Vigilance Movement, Ateke Tom and an Ogoni leader, Justice Peter Akere (rtd) have disagreed on zoning in the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Akere, who is also the President of KAGOTE (Khana, Gokana, Tai and Eleme - the four Ogoni councils), an umbrella organisation of Ogoni people, said:”As far as the PDP is concerned nationally, zoning is the main plank of

•Jonathan, Amaechi urged to end rift From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

its policy.

“It did not start today and it is not going to end too soon.

“When the PDP discusses zoning as its policy, it is the National Executive Committee (NEC) that will take the decision and pass it down to the states, local governments and wards.

“No state chapter has any decisive voice on the matter (zoning), unless it is directed by the NEC. “It is therefore surprising to

hear Felix Obuah, the Rivers PDP Chairman, say that zoning is no longer applicable in Rivers State.

“By the zoning policy of the party, which is still in force, the Rivers Southeast Senatorial District is the next zone to produce the governor. “So, it is anti-party to suggest that the zoning policy of the party has seized to be operative.

“The Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, is introducing new elements in the principle of zoning.”

But Ateke said: “The governor, in 2015, can come from

•Ateke Tom

any of the three senatorial districts. No to zoning. We need good governance.”

The duo called on President Goodluck Jonathan and Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi to end their rift.

Woman arrested for ‘threatening’ lecturer

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HE police in Delta State have arrested a 39-yearold lady, simply identified as Esther, for allegedly sending threat text messages to a lecturer of the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, demanding N100,000.

The suspect, who claimed to be a graduate of the Urban and Regional Planning Department, said she took the action to end a love relationship she started with the lecturer two years ago.

Her arrest followed complaints lodged by the embattled lecturer at the police division in Abraka on June 17.

She is being detained at the state police command headquarters in Asaba.

Esther, who claimed to be the lecturer’s private secretary, said she also operates a boutique and business centre where several items were recovered, following the execution of a search warrant by the police.

Four laptops; three international passports with numbers A00114952, A4100044, and A2899934 with various names and the suspect’s photograph on them and four digital cameras were recovered.

Also recovered were 17 handsets; five cheque books; a bag containing laptop chargers/mouse; two photocopy machines, three printers, 13 handset batteries; and five sim cards.

She denied being a member of any kidnap syndicate but admitted sending the mes-

From Aiwerie Okungbowa, Asaba

sage, saying that the items recovered were taken from her business centre in Abraka.

Esther said: “I did not blackmail him because I did not mean any harm when I sent the text message. I never expected it was going to be like this. I felt because we were dating he would give me the money.

“He is my boyfriend. I asked him for N100,000 or I would make it known to the public that we were dating. I wanted to end the relationship and use the money as a pay-off.

“I operate a boutique and a business centre in Abraka. I am also the private secretary to the professor. He has not paid me for sometime because he

said the university has not paid him for some months.”

On the items recovered from her, the suspect said her mother, who is based in London, bought most of the items for her to run her business, admitting that though the international passports belonged to her, they were expired.

“My mum is in London and she sent all these things which I use in my business centre. All the handsets are bad; my mum brings them to me. I operate a call centre with different lines.

The passports are expired,” she said.

Police spokesman Lucky Uyabeme, who stated that the suspect would be charged to court, urged the public to be wary of such text messages and report promptly to security agencies.

FRSC sues 10 transporters

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HE Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) yesterday sued 10 transport companies at an Oredo Magistrate’s Court in Benin City for failing to comply with requirements of the Road Transport Safety Standardisation Scheme(RTSSS).

The companies are Muyi line, Agbonifo line, Crystal line, Oghogho Express, Afemai line, Rod motors, Genesis motors, Comfort line, Osa’s motors and Unity motors.

The transport companies allegedly failed to comply with the seven-day notice giv-

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

en before commencement of legal action served on them

by FRSC on March 12.

Afemai Motors, Benin branch manager Saliu Umoru and General Manager of Genesis Motors Henry Isibor pleaded not liable to the offence.

They said they were not served any notice until Wednesday.

The Magistrate, Nosa Igbenosa, directed that the court processes be served on the defendants and adjourned hearing till July 3.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28 2013

59

NEWS

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Bianca, Emeka Ojukwu, others urge court to dismiss N100m suit

HE family of the late Ikemba Nnewi, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has urged a Federal High Court, Lagos, to dismiss a N100million suit filed against them by Debe Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who claims to be the warlord’s “first son”.

In counter-affidavits filed through their lawyer, George Uwechue (SAN), they said the applicant was not listed in their father’s Will as one of his children.

Debe sued Ojukwu Transport Limited, Prof Joseph Ojukwu, Emmanuel Ojukwu, Lotanna Ojukwu, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Patricia Ojukwu.

He also joined Mrs Margaret Mogbo (nee Ojukwu), Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar, a former Anambra State Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Muktar and a Deputy Commissioner of Police in Anambra State Mr Mike Okoli as respondents.

The applicant filed the suit on October 5 last year seeking a declaration that the alleged threat to life by the respondents amounted to a

•Case gets Oct 7 date

By Joseph Jibueze

violation of his rights.

Debe said the family asked him to cease from interfering in the management of the real and personal property owned by Ojukwu Transport Limited and his grand-father, Sir Odumegwu Ojukwu.

He alleged the threats culminated in his being denied an opportunity to perform the dust-to-dust funeral rites as first son during his “father’s” funeral.

Debe sought N100 million as exemplary and punitive damages against the respondents for the alleged violation of his fundamental rights as enshrined in Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution.

But Emeka OdumegwuOjukwu, in a counter-affidavit, said he was not aware of any Margaret who had even been his late father’s wife.

“The applicant, to the best of my knowledge, as well as to the Ojukwu family, is not and has never been a grandchild of the late Sir L.P.O Ojukwu.

“The applicant is not the son or the first son of my father, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu.

“The last Will and Testament of my late father, dated the July 9, 2005, duly certified by the Probate Registry Enugu, did not include the name of the claimant in the list of his eight children.

“I was listed as No. 2 and the eldest male child. He (late Ikemba Nnewi) specifically named me as his ‘first son’,” the respondent said.

He recalled that Debe had filed a similar suit at the Lagos State High Court, Igbosere, where he is praying the court to declare that he is the eldest son.

“In that suit, I have categorically denied in my defence that the applicant is a son of my late father.

“The applicant was not prevented from performing the traditional funeral rites for a man he claims to be his father.

“Nnewi community has its customs and these are respected by all indigenes of Nnewi community. A son cannot be prevented from doing what the custom permits him to do.

“No threat was ever made by me to the life of the applicant,” Emeka added.

Debe, in an affidavit in support of his suit, said he

was trained solely by his mother until he was compelled by circumstances to join the Nigeria Police Force in 1976.

According to him, he was doing well as a policeman when the respondents asked him to manage Ojukwu Transport Ltd, owned by the late Odumegwu Ojukwu, his grandfather.

He said he managed the firm effectively with his expertise, until the death of his father, when problems began.

The respondents, he alleged, suddenly asked him to hands off the company, which he had been handling so well.

“They used me to salvage the company that had become moribund and wasting, and later resolved to dump me.

“When my father died, I travelled to London to confirm the situation, but before I returned to Nigeria, the first to fourth respondents had taken over my father’s house.

“They took the task of organising a befitting burial for the deceased, a duty which is traditionally the function of the eldest son,” he said.

Justice Okon Abang adjourned hearing till October 7.

‘PDP is envious of Aregbesola’s feats’

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ENERAL Secretary of the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) and spokesman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the Southwest, Mr. Ayo Afolabi has said Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has performed “creditably” in less than three years.

He said only people who cannot identify good things will not acknowledge his performance.

Speaking with reporters in Osogbo, the state capital, Afolabi said Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains speak ill of Aregbesola because they are envious of his performance.

Rather than being condemned, he said the governor should be encouraged to do more.

Hailing Aregbesola for introducing innovation and creativity to governance, he said the governor has proved that it is possible to establish

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

good governance, visionary and purposeful leadership.

Afolabi described Aregbesola’s Opon-Imo (tablet of knowledge) as a revolution in the education sector.

On the ACN’s chances in next year’s governorship election, he said Aregbesola’s performance was good advertorial and campaign for his re-election.

Predicting a landslide victory for the ACN, he said the “destructive criticisms” of PDP chieftains could not stop the ACN from winning the election.

Afolabi said: “Under Aregbesola’s leadership, Osun has become a model in good governance for many states. PDP members are envious of him because his performance has exposed their ineptitude to lead the state.”

Fayemi: I leave treasury looters to God

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From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has said God will deal with people, who mismanaged the state’s finances.

The governor spoke yesterday in Efon-Alaaye during a Town Hall meeting.

He was represented by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Tayo Ekundayo.

Fayemi said: “We have left those who looted the state’s treasury in the hands of God. Good enough, some of them have become hungrier than they were when they assumed office, so the punishment of God is fiercer than that of man.

Surely, they will face the judgment of God someday.

“Even if they are probed and jailed, they will get out one day. But when you are facing God’s punishment, you may never get out of it.”

He said his administration would continue to assist the police to fight crime.

Fayemi said: “When we realised that you were passing through hell here in the hands of robbers, we facilitated the deployment of soldiers in Itawure Junction. The feedback we get now is that the situation has improved considerably.”

On poor radio and television signals in the local government, he said the administration was “working on how to improve it through infrastructural support”.

The governor said: “People of this community are not abreast of the laudable progress recorded daily by this administration. We will look into your demands and make life easier for you. The administration has started adjusting its annual budget to meet requests made by communities at Town Hall meetings.”

Leadership journalists back in court

T •From left: Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Akinwunmi Adesina; Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Ibukun Odusote, at the 40th regular meeting of the National Council on Agriculture and Rural Development in Abeokuta...yesterday

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Nigeria on the brink of collapse, says Ikuforiji

AGOS State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji has said the country is on the brink of collapse.

He spoke in his office while receiving the “Most Friendly Supporter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Award” from executives of the NBA, Ikeja branch, led by its Chairman, Mr. Onyekachi Ubani.

Ikuforiji said: “The country is at cross roads. We call on God to help us but we need to have a sober reflection, put heads together and proffer solutions to our problems. The nation is on the brink of collapse, but we must not allow it to break up because its beauty lies in its big size.”

He urged the NBA to “stand out as the voice of reason against oppression

By Oziegbe Okoeki

and uphold the country’s unity and progress”.

“It is only when a body like the NBA takes the lead that others will follow. I have a lot of respect for NBA because I know what it is

capable of doing,” the Speaker added.

Ubani described Ikuforiji’s trial at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, for alleged money laundering as “political”.

He said: “The Assembly, under your leadership, has

lived up to the people’s expectation and you have put it on the path of greatness.

“The NBA is solidly behind you. Whatever you are undergoing now is a political scheme, but God will vindicate you. Definitely, the righteous will be vindicated.”

FAAC funds crises: Reps seek diversification of economy

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UE to the persistent crises in the allocation of funds between the three tiers of government by the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to diversify the economy.

The House has mandated its committee on Finance to interface with the Ministry of Finance and the representatives of the states in the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee ( FAAC) within two weeks,

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

with a view to ascertaining the critical issues bedeviling revenue allocation.

The committee is to make necessary recommendations to the House on alternative ways of revenue distribution in the country.

Besides, the House also mandated its ad hoc committee on Legislative Agenda to work in conjunction with committees such as Industry, Ag-

riculture, Commerce, Solid Minerals etc. and formulate a blueprint for the diversification of the economy “for the purpose of same to the Executive and the public.”

This was sequel to the adoption of the resolutions of a motion sponsored by Samson Osagie, Minority Whip , in conjunction with 12 other lawmakers, under the title: Administration of Federation Accounts by the Federal Ministry of Finance and the need to diversify Nigerian economy.”

•Get bail

HE Federal Government yesterday re-arraigned two journalists with the Leadership newspaper.

The Group News Editor, Tony Amokeodo and a political reporter, Chibuzo Ukaibe, were arraigned before an Abuja High Court in Kubwa on an 11-count criminal charge bordering on conspiracy and forgery.

The government had earlier arraigned them before Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja, but quickly discontinued the case when defence lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) queried the court’s jurisdiction.

Both journalists pleaded not guilty to all counts after the charge was read to them.

Prosecution lawyer Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) told the court he was ready to proceed with the trial since the accused have pleaded not guilty.

He urged the court to remand them in prison custody pending the next adjourned date.

Falana applied to the court to admit the accused persons to bail.

He said the Federal High

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

Court, Abuja, had earlier struck out the charge against the accused.

He added that the accused persons were always present in court while their case was before the Federal High Court.

Falana told the court that the earlier court also admitted his clients to bail and they did not jump bail.

Responding, Awomolo conceded that the earlier court admitted the journalists to bail and that they did not jump bail.

He added that going by their antecedent, he believed they would not jump bail.

Justice Musale held that,” the bail application having not been opposed by the prosecution, is therefore is granted.”

“The prosecution also said they have concluded investigation, therefore the accused persons have nothing to temper with.

“I therefore grant them bail in the sum of N500,000 each with one surety who must be a responsible person. This matter is adjourned till July 16,” the judge held.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

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NEWS Ban on public protests remain, says Rivers police chief

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ARELY three days after Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi spoke of a plan to lead a protest to the Government House in Port Harcourt over ceded oil wells, Police Commissioner Mbu Joseph Mbu yesterday warned that the ban on public protests and processions was still in force.

Mbu spoke while presenting his report card in crime-fighting since he assumed duty as the police chief in the oil-rich state in March.

Describing his relationship with Governor Rotimi Amaechi as cordial, the police chief insisted that his men would arrest and prosecute any group, or organisation staging a protest in the state without his approval.

Last month, Mbu announced a ban on all forms of public protests following rising political tension in the state and unending rallies and counter-rallies in the state capital and other city centres.

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Abubakar reported approved the ban to

From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

avoid a full-scale disorder in the state as a result of the crisis rocking the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

He warned that the law would be hard on violators of the order.

The last protest march in the state was by ex-militants in the state. They were led by Ateke Tom, an indigene of Okrika Local Government Area, the hometown of First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan.

Mba said: “The ban on public protest without application and approval by the commissioner of Police remained outlawed in the state. Yesterday (Wednesday), His Excellency and I spoke for about 30 minutes in a very friendly manner, jokingly, just like that. It is the press that is orchestrating these issues because you want to sell your papers.

“Nobody is above the law in Nigeria, nobody is above the law of the land, but I know that His Excellency is not thinking towards that direction.

“This is because His Excellency is the Governor of this state, he is the chief security officer, I’ m just his 2iC. So, until then, we can’t discuss that now.

“Forget about what you people, are writing about the governor and myself; I know you want to sell your papers. Governor is my friend, he is my brother and he is my boss and we are cordial.

“I have said earlier that we spoke for about 30 minutes that day, so it is you the press that is orchestrating and over-blowing the whole thing out of proportion because you want to sell your papers by writing: “the governor say shoot me, how can I shoot my governor; it is not possible.”

Amaechi, who addressed indigenes of Orashi zone from Ahoada East, Ahoada West, Ogba/Egbema/ Ndoni, and Abua/Odual local government areas, who paid him a solidarity visit at the Government House on Tuesday, spoke of his readiness to lead residents on a protest march.

The governor had earlier ac-

cused Mba of compromising the state security by leaking secretes to outsiders. He also said the ceding of oil wells belonging to the state to his neighbours was unacceptable.

It was reported that the police had intercepted the group who were coming in several buses on their arrival into Emouha, en route Port Harcourt.

Reacting, Mba said his men were misinformed and that those intercepted were later released to continue their journey.

His words: “We got a call about 1am last Tuesday that some elements, some people were being mobilised to come to Port Harcourt for a public and street protests and we have to stop them.

“Later, His Excellency called me and he told me they were coming on a solidarity visit to the Government House and I told him if they were coming on a solidarity visit to the governor, there is no problem.

Then I called the Area Command to allow them to come, I think they came and left.”

Budget amendment row: Jonathan succumbs Continued from page 4

“We all appreciate the fact that unemployment is one of our major concerns in this country today. Considering the gravity of the situation, I would like to bring up the issue of the budgetary allocation to the Community Services, Women and Youth Employment Programme under the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P).

“Against our proposal of N27 billion, the National Assembly allocated N9 billion.

This cut will have the adverse effect of severely undermining our capacity to create the jobs needed for our teeming unemployed youths, women and physically-challenged citizens.

“In this regard, I crave your cooperation to restore the SURE-P Budget (a copy of its Amendment proposal is attached herewith.

Here is the breakdown of the new version of the amendment bill: •Ministry of Works: Abuja &Lokoja Road reduced by N4b; Kano-Maiduiguri Road reduced by N3.5b; Dualisation of Ibadan-Ilorin Section 2 reduced by N5.5b; Rehabilitation of Jebba Bridge reduced by N1.25b; Rehabilitation of burnt Marine Bridge and Iddo Bridge reduced by N1b.

•Special Intervention Fund for Emergency Roads and Bridges washout across the country reduced by N6.28b: Dualisation of Obajana Junc-

tion to Benin reduced by N4B, etc.

•Ministry of Health: MDG:HIV/AIDS ARV drugs allocation reduced by N1b; Routine immunisation Vaccines reduced by N1.75b; Malaria Programme procurement and distribution of insecticides reduced by N0.8b; Payment of pledge for Cichocerciasis Recertification cut by N0:12b Nlationai Trauma Centre, Abuja reduced by N0.1b, etc.

•Ministry of Power: A total of N16.3b was cut from power projects including the 215MW Kaduna Dual Fired Power Plant, which was reduced by N2.25b; 2nd Kaduna-Kano 33KV DC Lines reduced by N1.5b; GombeYola-Jalingo 330KV SC Line reduced by N0.6b.

•Maiduguri 330/132KV Sub-station reduced by N0.3b; Kaduna-Jos 330KV DC Line reduced by N0.5b; Omotosho-Epe-Ajah 330KV DC Line reduced by NO. 8b, etc.

•Ministry of Transport: Construction of Abuja-Kaduna Rail was reduced by N1.4b; Jebba-Kano Rail Line Rehabilitation reduced by N0.5b; Procurement and Rehabilitation of Wagons/Locomotives reduced by N1B; Insurance of Locomotives reduced by N0.2B etc.

•Ministry of Education: Allocations to various projects were reduced to N5.64b, including the National Library Project which was cut by N2B.

Boko Haram burns 209 schools in Yobe Continued from page 4

•Bauchi State Commissioner for Health Dr Sani Malami (middle), being watched by officials of government during the opening of outdoor environmental management campaign against malaria in Bauchi…yesterday

You can’t see Jonathan, guards tell Amaechi Continued from page 4

President at such an open gathering will be to think the worst of the occupier of that office.

That is why we have chosen not to believe that this indeed occurred, and why we are calling on Mr. President to tell Nigerians that ‘it ain’t so’ ‘’We shudder to think of what efforts are being made including the use of national institutions - to undermine Governor Amaechi if the treatment reportedly meted out to him at the dinner has the approval of the powers that be.

We are even more worried at what will happen to a governor from the opposition who falls out of favour with the President, if a governor from the same party as the President can be so publicly humiliated,’’ it said.

The ACN said it was particularly incumbent on the President to clarify the report because Amaechi, the authentic Chair of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), extended an Olive Branch to President Jonathan by attending the dinner along with the other governors who voted him into the NGF chairmanship, despite the fact that the President is publicly supporting the losing faction of the NGF, in what is

being seen as a democratic faux pas.

The party said the President must learn to separate politics from governance by rising above petty partisanship as he steers the affairs of state. ‘’At this point, we have no choice than to call attention to the recent speech by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon, Aminu Tambuwal, to welcome back the honourable members from their short break.

ACN quoted the Speaker thus: “I am strongly persuaded

to state once again that from the little that we know, there is a dichotomy between politics and governance. Thus there is a difference between a candidate in electoral contest on the platform of a political party and in an elected official who has assumed a non-partisan responsibility and taken oath to protect and preserve the constitution, to serve the people and the nation.

“Needless to say that generally, whenever partisan interests conflict with national inter-

est, it is partisan interests that must be sacrificed in the preservation of the national interest. The oath we took is that of constitutionalism and national service and not of suffocating partisanship.”

The party urged all political office holders, irrespective of their party affiliation, to eschew the kind of pervasive and petty partisanship that led to the reported disrespect shown to an elected State Governor by a security agent being paid with taxpayers’ money.

classrooms, hostels, workshops, laboratories, administrative blocks, vehicles were destroyed by the insurgents, costing an estimated N2.5 billion. This is in addition to the office blocks of government agencies belonging to both state and federal governments.

“Similarly, private houses with estimated value of over N629 million were also burnt,” he said.

Over 200 Hilux patrol vehicles were bought for security operatives, Aliyu said, adding that N200 million is being spent on logistics and monthly allowances, among other needs of security operatives every month.

The government praised the people for their prayers, which it noted have drastically helped in the improvement

How we operate, by ‘baby factories’ proprietors

S

TAMPING out the infamous trade in babies, known in Southeast parlance as “Baby Factory” may be an uphill task for security operatives.

Reason: those involved in the business, especially the suspects recently arrested in Imo State, have described it as a way of life in the region.

According to the suspects, whose names were being withheld, the ‘business’ has come a long way and may be difficult to eradicate completely.

Their confessions came as security operatives intensify the clampdown on proprietors of baby factories and go on the

•Suspects disclose why baby sales thrive in Southeast

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

trail of their patrons.

The illegal practice crept into the Southeast business with the establishment and operation of orphanages by some unscrupulous characters.

Such centres, taken for nonprofitable humanitarian and service organisations, turned out to be places of fleecing public-spirited individuals and unsuspecting help-seekers, especially expectant teenage mothers, are fleeced.

The proliferation of orphanages and dwindling income

forced proprietors, who have formed a formidable union to diversify into illegal child trading business.

Giving graphic details of how they source the teenagers who are conscripted into the baby factory, an insider in the business said: “It is poverty that makes the girls easy prey.

The women that go out to solicit funds in the villages are commissioned to look out for young girls from poor homes who are enticed to join the trade without the knowledge of the nature of the business.

“Once they succumb and

come to the centre, their movements would be restricted and be forced to take the oath of secrecy before they are let into the details of the business.”

To successfully run a baby factory, the insider, who confessed to have been in the business for over eight years, said: “You will have a registered Motherless Babies Home as a front to operate and open the ‘showroom’ to display the babies you have. You must also hire a medical doctor who attends to the pregnant teenagers aside from setting up a secret clinic to avoid prying eyes.

of security and the gradual return of peace, in the state, adding that schools and economic activities have picked up.

Aliyu regretted the recent attack on the Government Secondary School, Damaturu, saying: “The attack came as a surprise as the state has done 10-month of uninterrupted peace.” It praised the Federal Government for deploying more security in the state.

The deputy governor praised the gallantry of the men of the Joint Task Force (JTF) and urged the people to continue to support them.

He said the state would empower the 17 women and 21 children so far released by the JTF through the Women Development Centres.

The chairman of the committee and Minister of Special Duties Turaki, condoled with the government and people over the loss of life and property since the attacks began.

He stressed the need for the cooperation of the people towards finding a lasting solution to the problem.

Turaki said they were in the state as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to reconciliation with insurgents, adding that the committee would meet with the clergy, royal fathers, elders and heads of security agencies to find a solution to the security challenges.

Turaki said: “Life is gradually and steadily returning to Yobe State. Despite the state of emergency, all democratic tenets are being adhered to as security operatives are operating within the ambits of law.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

61

FOREIGN NEWS

T

HE Senate stood poised Thursday to approve historic immigration legislation opening the door to U.S. citizenship to millions and promising a dramatic build-up of manpower and technology along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The vote on final passage of the White House-backed bill was expected as early as Thursday afternoon, after a series of test votes so far this week demonstrated supporters command a bipartisan majority well over the 60 votes needed to secure pas-

•Obama

I

F US President Barack Obama’s first, brief visit to the continent four years ago was characterised by inflated expectations followed by a lingering sense of disappointment; his second tour of Africa is taking place in a rather different atmosphere.

For a start, there is the inevitable preoccupation here in South Africa with Nelson Mandela’s state of health and the fear that it might en-

American senate on historic immigration vote

sage and send the bill to the House. First must come two more procedural tests set for Thursday morning.

“It’s landmark legislation that will secure our borders and help 11 million people get right with the law,” Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said on the Senate floor Thursday ahead of the votes.

Countered Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., “This bill may pass

the Senate today, but not with my vote. And in its current form, it won’t become law.”

Supporters posted 67 votes or more on each of three procedural tests Wednesday.

More than a dozen Republicans sided with Democrats on each, ensuring bipartisan support that the bill’s backers hope will change minds in the House.

The outlook there is uncertain. Many House conserva-

tives oppose the pathway to citizenship at the center of the Senate bill. And many prefer a piecemeal approach rather than a sweeping bill like the one the Senate is producing.

The House Judiciary Committee is in the midst of a piece-by-piece effort, turning its attention Thursday to a bill on high-skilled workers.

On Wednesday the committee signed off on legisla-

tion establishing a system to require all employers to check their workers’ legal status on a faster timeframe than the Senate bill contemplates. And last week it approved two other measures, one establishing a new agricultural guest worker program and a second making illegal presence in the country a federal crime, instead of a civil offense as it is now.

None of the bills weighed by the Judiciary Committee

Obama’s visit to Africa: Too little too late?

tirely overshadow the American leader’s trip.

Then there is the narrative of failure and criticism that any leader can probably expect after four-and-a-half years in power, and which is manifesting itself in South Africa with protests planned by various prominent groups, with a particular focus on American economic and foreign policies. There has been criticism back home too that Mr Obama’s three-country trip - heavy on presidential security - is costing too much.

And across Africa - while there is an appreciation that America’s leader has had plenty on his plate elsewhere, with the financial crisis and the turmoil in the Middle East - there is also a niggling belief that this trip has come a little late in his presidency, and that with Chinese investment flooding in, the US no longer carries quite such clout on the continent.

Nonetheless, in a region increasingly willing and able to

ANALYSIS engage with the world on an equal - and business-orientated - footing, Mr Obama’s visit is still generating plenty of interest.

“It’s good for Africa that President Obama is coming,” said Jeff Nemeth, the South African head of the US car manufacturing giant Ford.

“He’s been on record as saying that Africa is potentially the next economic success story, and his coming here serves to cement that vision.”

Ford’s output here has almost doubled in three years.

“The economic boom in subSaharan Africa feels real to me,” said Mr Nemeth, who is hoping that President Obama can help nudge governments on the continent to “focus on things that will drive economic growth… education, infrastructure support, good governance and good financial systems”.

China’s leaders make many more visits to Africa these days than they used to - and

the deals they sign generate plenty of headlines here.

But there is still something much more intimate about a visit by an American president - particularly one with an African heritage.

We’re ready to take Africa to the next level. We need collaboration between America’s entrepreneurs and ours” “I’d like to tell him: ‘Look at us - there is hope,’” said Zineb Oulmakki, a Moroccan student at the African Leadership Academy outside Johannesburg.

There are a lot of prospects for this continent.”There will be a lot of growth - I’m certain of that. Soon we will not be reliant on aid. We will be a major leader in the global economic context.”

Ethiopian student Eyerusalem Assefa said: “We worry a bit about China.

They don’t give good salaries sometimes. It must be a winwin situation with no-one being exploited.”

As for the idea that China and the US are battling for con-

trol of the continent’s resources, Mr Nemeth said he had no sense of that, and stressed instead what he saw as the advantages of US businesses. “We have a very strong sense of good governance, and that’s what American companies bring and it gives us a space in business that is somewhat unique,” he said. “We can generate returns in a way that we believe is more supportive to the communities and countries in which we work.

“In the long run, people want to work at a place that has integrity, and people want to live in a country that has integrity, and as the middle class grows and becomes more involved in the governance and politics, they’ll demand that too - it’s just the way it evolves.”

For Kenyan student Maimuna Abdi Yussuf, the visit is a good opportunity for the continent. “We’re ready to take Africa to the next level,” he said.”We need collaboration between America’s entrepreneurs and ours.”

contemplate a path to citizenship or even legalization for the millions already here.

At its core, the legislation in the Senate includes numerous steps to prevent future illegal immigration, while at the same time it offers a chance at citizenship to the 11 million immigrants now living in the country unlawfully.

It provides for 20,000 new Border Patrol agents, requires the completion of 700 miles of fencing and requires an array of high-tech devices to be deployed to secure the border with Mexico.

Businesses would be required to check on the legal status of prospective employees. Other provisions would expand the number of visas for highly skilled workers relied upon by the technology industry. A separate program would be established for lower-skilled workers, and farm workers would be admitted under a temporary program.

The basic legislation was drafted by four Democrats and four Republicans who met privately for months to produce a rare bipartisan compromise in a polarized Senate. They fended off unwanted changes in the Senate Judiciary Committee and then were involved in negotiations with Republican Sens. John Hoeven of North Dakota and Bob Corker of Tennessee on a package of tougher border security provisions that swelled support among Republicans.

62

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

THE NATION FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013

63

TODAY IN THE NATION

FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM INTRODUCTION

W

E have been assembled here to propose amendments to the provisions relating to the Judicature in The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Promulgation) Decree no 24 of 1999, otherwise called “the 1999 Constitution” imposed on the country by the Abdulsalami Abubakar junta. Notwithstanding the false claim in its preamble that it was made and enacted by the Nigerian people the decree has been said to be the grundnorm by the courts.

To that extent it is a legal document which lacks legitimacy because of its fraudulent origin. Since the interests of the ruling class are well protected by the decree it is being adjusted and reviewed, from time to time, with a view to consolidating to guaranteeing political stability. Hence the suggestion of a holistic review of the decree has been unanimously rejected by the members of the National Assembly regardless of political affiliations. Even the idea of subjecting the proposed amended Constitution to a referendum has been dismissed by an arrogant political class which has sheer contempt for the people. In so far as the managers of the neo-colonial state are not prepared to appreciate that sovereignty belongs to the people the agitation for an inclusive, democratic, transparent, and legitimate Constitution will not abate after the on-going review would have been concluded.

The retreats for senators on the review of the constitution, the one-day meeting convened by members of the House of Representatives in the 360 federal constituencies and the intellectual interventions of the political elite cannot be a substitute for the direct participation of the poeple in the constitution making process. Having excluded the people from the democratic exercise of fashioning a new Constitution for the nation the on-going review is going to produce a document that will accentuate the demand for the convocation of a sovereign national conference. Although I am convinced beyond any shadow of doubt that the amended Constitution will not stand the test of time I have decided to partake of the discourse out of respect for the Rule of Law Group Development Foundation.

THE JUDICIAL REFORM BILL 2012 Based on the recommendations of the 29member committee of jurists and legal practitioners set up to inquire into the crisis in the judiciary a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Honourable Justice Dahiru Musdapher submitted a Judicial Reform Bill to the National Assembly in July 2012. The current Chief Justice, the Honourable Justice Maryam Aloma Muktar is reported to have endorsed the bill.

Essentially the bill has proposed that appeals from the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court shall only be by leave of the latter, reference to the appellate courts on constitutional matters has been abolished while the Supreme Court is conferred with the additional jurisdiction of rendering judicial opinion based on application made by either the President or Governor of a state. The bill has also proposed a composition of the Federal Judicial Service Commission and the National Judicial Council to reflect democratic participation of rel-

‘The affected countries were reportedly picked based on their high number of visa applications and what the British Government sees as relatively high levels of especially immigration infractions and fraud’’

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

OPEN FORUM By

FEMI FALANA

Judicial Reform Bill : Strategies for speedy passage STRATEGIES FOR SPEEDY PASSAGE OF THE JUDICIAL REFORM BILL

•Justice Muktar

evant stakeholders. The removal of judicial officers has been altered to ensure a greater degree of fairness.

However, the judicial reform is conspicuously silent on the appellate jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court. Having been clothed with the powers to hear and determine all matters relating to labour, employment and industrial relations to the exclusion of any other court it is dangerous to limit the right of appeal of aggrieved parties to the limited area of the breach of fundamental rights.

Included in the judicial reform is the duty imposed on the heads of courts to amend the rules of practice and procedure of the high courts and the appellate courts to enhance quality of justice delivery and ensure speedy dispensation of justice. But the administration of justice cannot be substantially improved upon if the system continues to allow the filing of filing frivolous interlocutory applications and stay of proceedings to frustrate trials and obstruct the course of justice. While the right to file interlocutory appeals from the High courts to the Court of Appeal is recognised there should be no stay of proceedings once a trial has commenced. It is hoped that the proposed rules will guarantee uniformity in the rules of the various high courts.

Since the Judicial Reform Bill was submitted last year not much has been done by the judiciary and the Nigerian Bar Association to mobilise their members to debate the 52 proposals contained therein. In the same vein, the bill has not been circulated among legislators and other stakeholders in the society.

Therefore, the copies of the bill ought to be well circulated in the print and electronic media.

In addition to the initiative of the Rule of Law Development Foundation the National Judicial Council and the Nigerian Bar Association should, as a matter of urgency, organise seminars and workshops for judges and lawyers on the bill. Such enlightenment programmes may lead to a qualitative amendment of the contents of the bill.

The National Assembly should be made to appreciate that the passage of the judicial reform bill will not achieve the desired objective if the Administration of Justice Bill, Prisons Amendment Bill, Police Amendment Bill and other relevant bills are not passed.

Having regard to the difficulty of amending the Constitution some of the provisions relating to the judicature should be transferred to the laws establishing the courts recognised by the Constitution.

The judicial reform bill has failed to address lack of access to justice by the generality of our people. Hence it is silent on the relevance of public officers’ protection laws, pre-action notices and the application of the doctrine of locus standi. In particular, the rules of court should specifically encourage public interest litigation to promote public accountability and constitutionalism.

The penchant of courts to sacrifice justice at the altar of technicalities has to stop. The misleading application of section 285 of the Constitution by the Supreme Court has made a mockery of the intention of the legislature. It is high time Nigerian courts returned to the path of liberalism in the interpretation of the Constitution.

Being an elitist proposal the judicial reform bill has not taken cognisance of the magistrate and area courts, customary and sharia courts which are daily patronised by the ma-

HARDBALL

I

N the light of its current tomfoolery and relentless assault on the sensibilities of the average Nigerian out there, Hardball is tempted to get into the ring of infamy with our dear PDP. Thoroughly troubled by this irredeemable crew, Hardball is of the mind to call for entries in a creative competition to find a most fitting interpretation to the abbreviation, PDP. People Doodling and Prattling is Hardball’s modest effort but in the hands of creative heads, there is a limitless, even magical world of coinages to be trawled. Yes we have heard: People Destroying People; the famous Papa Deceiving Pikin and People Draining the Public and more.

But this competition, if we get round to it, would be about the bizarre and hilarious dissipations of the so-called ruling (ruining) party in Nigeria.

One could even call for a potpourri of jokes, cartoons and illustrations. Because the party has become a joke or if you like, a long running

MOBOLAJI SANUSI

VOL 8 NO.2,530

jority of our people. More so, that appeals arising from the decisions of such inferior courts are curiously allowed to terminate in the Supreme Court! It is my submission that no genuine judicial reform can succeed if it fails to protect the interests of the over 90 per cent of our people who have no contact with the high courts and the appellate courts.

Many of the recommendations aimed at sanitising the judiciary do not require constitutional amendment but the commitment of the National Judicial Council to rid the judiciary of corruption and other forms of misconduct.

In this regard the National Judicial Council under the leadership of the Honourable Justice Maryam Aloma Muktar, CJN is determined to purge the judiciary of bad eggs while the rules of practice and procedure of the courts are being reviewed to enhance the quality of justice delivery. The Chief Judge of the federal high court, the Honourable Justice Ibrahim Auta has braized the trail by issuing practice directions to provide for the day to day trial of cases of terrorism, corruption etc.

In the past, the country benefited immensely from the appointment of distinguished legal practitioners and law teachers as Justices of the appellate courts. Even some Chief Judges were elevated to the Supreme Court bench without going through the Court of Appeal.

Such jurists added value to the quality of the decisions of the courts and enhanced the integrity of the judicary. But without any justifiable basis the National Judicial Council has turned such appointment into a promotion exercise among serving judges. The ongoing judicial reform should return the judiciary to the glorious past when judges were selected among the best in the legal profession.

CONCLUSION No doubt, the Judicial Reform Bill 2012 is a bold attempt by the Honourable Justice Dahiru Musdapher CJN (as he then was) to utilise the review of the 1999 Constitution to effect sweeping reforms in the Judiciary. The National Judicial Council and the Nigerian Bar Association should lead the campaign for the passage of the bill. As the passage of the bill alone cannot promote the administration of justice the campaign should be linked with the demand for the passage of other bills which are equally pending in the National Assembly.

To demonstrate that the judiciary is committed to the reforms the recommendations which do not require any legislation should be carried out without any further delay. Efforts should therefore be intensified by the National Judicial Council to review the procedure for recommending candidates for appointment to the higher bench, the removal of corrupt judges from the bench and the amendments of the rules of practice and procedure of the high courts and the appellate courts. The cooperation of the Nigerian Bar Association, the human rights community and other stakeholders is a sine qua non for the success of the judicial reforms.

•Falana (SAN) is a human rights activist •Segun Gbadegesin returns next week

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

PDP: People Doodling (and) Prattling comedy strip. It would be interesting to see how much material our ever witty populace may be able to mine from PDP’s reservoir of ribaldry.

Any discerning Nigerian would have noticed the endless drama that these people, who are supposed to be ruling us have been getting into since 1999. They are like a people under a spell that ensures that nothing ever goes right. Every simple action is steeped in intrigues and rancor, for instance, right from inception, almost every national party chairman had been entangled in a web of intrigues and subterfuge no sooner he is installed. Result: hardly any ever spent his full term before he is tossed out.

This curse that defies antidote has continued to plague PDP till today. The current national chairman who was installed the other day, has

never been able to set his glass down after a drink of water, as the saying goes. It has all become like children playing silly hide and seek. Here are samplers of some PDP big headlines in some national newspapers this month: “PDP govs in fresh move against Tukur”; “Tukur set to battle Anenih”; “PDP crisis: Governors shun Tukur’s son’s wedding”; “Anxiety over Tukur, others”; “PDP crisis: I won’t resign as chairman, says Tukur”; “Stakeholders ask Tukur to go”; “Tukur must stay – Jonathan”; “PDP govs renew plot to remove Tukur”; “PDP govs set to reconcile Jonathan, Amaechi”, on and on.

This is the life of PDP: endless streaming of banalities; like the blabbing of brain-dead people.

This is the life of PDP, the party ruling Nigeria.

This is the life PDP has bequeathed Nigeria.

This is why we are the way we are, the country is not being governed, it is rather being ravaged by a savage clan. If you expect that someday, PDP the largest party in Africa would brainstorm on the killer corruption in the country or the unemployment that has worsted our youths, not to mention the power jinx the party has locked us into since 1999, perish the thought.

PDP does not discuss progress; it does not even discuss power. What then does it engage in?

Endless scheming to hang on to power at all cost. They are a people doodling and prattling: they are engaged in endless activities without getting anything done and they are talking so much yet they say nothing to the people. Who will save Nigeria from these doodlers?

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