The Nation Mar 18, 2014

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Jonathan: no personal agenda for National Conference

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From Onyedi Ojiabor and Dele Anofi, RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan Abuja declared yesterday that he has no personal agenda for the National National Conference was being conConference—contrary to a popular view. vened to engage in intense introspecThe President also said that the con- tion about the political and socio-ecovocation of a National Conference be- nomic challenges confronting Nigeria. came necessary to avail Nigerians the opHe said that the conference portunity of charting a way forwas also to chart the best and SEE ALSO most acceptable way for the ward for the country.

Dr. Jonathan added that the PAGES 2,3&59

Continued on page 2

•Some students lying on the road during the protest in Maryland, Lagos...yesterday

Minister faces sack over 19 job seekers’ death President lashes Moro, NIS chief Protests in Abuja, Kaduna

I •Moro

From Yusuf Alli, Augustine Ehikioya, NTERIOR Minister Abba Moro’s Onyedi Ojiabor and Dele Anofi, Abuja job was hanging in the balance yesterday after a meeting with Immigration Service (NIS) recruitment President Goodluck Jonathan. centres.

Besides, there were protests Jonathan summoned in Abuja and Kaduna over the SEE ALSO Moro and NIS Comptroldeath last weekend of no fewer ler General Mr David ParPAGE 7 than 19 job seekers at Nigerian radang to the Villa to ex-

plain what went wrong.

The presidential action followed the national outcry that greeted the deaths in Abuja, Minna, Port Harcourt and Benin centres of 19 applicants, including expectant women.

Eminent Nigerians have called for Moro’s resignation or his sack by the

President over the poor handling of what should be a routine event.

Moro insisted yesterday that he would not resign. He blamed the victims for the stampede that led to their deaths, saying they failed to obey instructions. The minister added that Continued on page 2

•SPORTS P23 •POLITICS P43 •TRANSPORTATION P47 •ENERGY P51 •PROPERTY P52

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

NEWS Anambra agog as Obiano takes the rein

Minister faces sack over 19 job seekers’ death

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Continued on page 1

some unauthorised people came to the centres to cause problems. He promised to set up a probe.

The organisation of the recruitment has been generally adjudged to be shoddy, with 520,000 job seekers chasing 4, 556 openings. There was stampede at the stadia used for the recruitment.

In Kaduna, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) led a protest to the NIS. In Abuja, a civil society organisation spearheaded a march on the office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

The NLC, in a statement by its President AbdulWaheed Omar, called for a probe of the deaths.

Moro and Parradang were at the Presidential Villa for over two hours. They were led to the President’s office by the Chief of Staff, Gen. Jones Arogbofa.

Jonathan described the “incident” as sad.

Speaking at the inauguration of the National Conference in Abuja, he said: “As we were preparing for this inauguration, a very sad incident happened on Saturday.”

He called for a minute silence “for the young lads who died on Saturday”.

It was learnt that Jonathan tongue lashed the two officials for about 20 minutes. They were reportedly dumbfounded throughout the session.

They could not give cogent reasons for the deaths.

The President was reported to have told them: “I am highly disappointed with your performance. I cannot tolerate this.”

It was learnt that the President’s mood suggested that the time was up for the two officials to resign - if they could read his countenance.

A highly-placed source said: “We have never seen the President in such a foul mood at the Villa. The case was compounded by the fact that the Minister and the Immigration chief could not give cogent reasons.

“They were just blabbing.

“At the end of the 20-minute session, the Minister and Parradang wobbled out of the President’s office, uncertain of their

•L UCKY SUR VIV ORS: Folasade...yesterday •LUCKY SURVIV VIVORS:

O

•Endurance...yesterday

P HOTOS: GBENGA OMOKHUNU

Six bodies unclaimed in Abuja

NLY one of the seven bodies of the job applicants who died in last weekend’s Immigration service recruitment fiasco in Abuja, has been released.

The family of Oyisa Yusuf, a 35-year-old mother of one, has taken her body away.

National Hospital spokesman Tayo Haastrup, a doctor, said six other bodies are yet unclaimed.

He said: “They were about 70 injured initially brought here but reduced to 30 as they were being treated and discharged. And now we have six in the ward, among them are two pregnant women.

“They are now in good condition and have been yearning to go home. It is most likely we will discharge them tomorrow (today).

“What will still be keeping the others is just the POP around their legs and little pains.

Nobody died in our custody, the bodies were brought to the National Hospital from the stadium.

“We are still waiting for relations to come and identify bodies and this is followed by proper procedures, like the police report. As soon as all these are done, bodies will be released to the families.”

Haastrup chastised the organisers of the tragic recruitment, saying: “For a programme of this magnitude, there should be a medical team

jobs.”

Another source in the Presidency said: “The President’s reaction suggested that they cannot go scot free at all. If they do not quit, he might show them the way out of government.

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

involved so as to forestall this kind of situation.”

Recalling what happened, Folashade Olanrewaju, a six- month- old expectant woman, said: “I got there before 7am. At the main gate, I saw a crowd, as I was trying to enter the stadium.

All I knew after that was finding myself in the hospital. A policeman told me I should thank God that I’m alive. They asked me of my husband’s phone member and they called to inform him.”

An Osun State indigene, the woman, added: “I am okay now and I want to be discharged. I only feel little pains. I am still interested in the NIS job since I am still alive. I have a National Diploma certificate in Business Administration from the Federal Polytechnic Ede, Osun State.”

Another expectant applicant, Endurance Ben, from Benue State, said: “I was also there before 7am on Saturday. The gates were locked and we were asked to jump over the drainage close to the stadium fence.

“Many people jumped and were trapped. I collapsed while waiting for the test to start. I am married with a kid. I studied Business Administration from Benue State Polytechnic. I came from Benue State for this aptitude test. I am okay now. I want to go home.”

“What the President did was to tongue lash them, leave them to ponder and take the path of honour by quitting; otherwise they will be removed without dignity.”

It was gathered that Moro and

Parradang were still trying to lobby some governors and highly-placed Nigerians to keep their jobs Security agencies have started probing the involvement of a

Continued on page 60

T was the first time power would be transferred in such an orderly manner since the creation of the state.

Anambra was agog yesterday as Wille Obiano took over as governor with the exit of Peter Obi. The crowd was heavy. It was unprecedented in Awka, the state capital.

The ceremony lasted over four hours as people irrespective of party affiliation, united to say goodbye to Obi and welcome Obiano –the banker-turned politician.

Anambra’s business moguls, Sir Emeka Offor, Prince Arthur Eze ans senators Joy Emodi, Onyeabor Obi, Emma Anosike and Margery Okadigbo were among the guests.

Throughout the ceremony yesterday, Obi looked sober. But Obiano and his deputy Dr. Nkem Okeke were all smiles.

They were attired in uniformed black suits and ties to match.

Different cultural groups from across the 21 local government areas were on parade including the popular Kponkiti dance from Umunze in Orumba South Council Area and the Ohafia war dance from Abia State.

Abia state Governor and chairman Southeast Governor’s Forum Chief Theodore Orji, his wife Odochi, wife of the Delta

resolution of such challenges in the collective interest of all the constituent parts of the country.

Jonathan spoke while inaugurating the 2014 National Conference in Abuja.

National Conference, he said, is a very important avenue for the voices of Nigerians to be heard and an avenue to address the yearnings and desires of Nigerians that needed to be discussed.

He noted that delegates at the conference are neither usurping the role of the National Assembly nor the Executive, but rather complementing the efforts of the two arms of government in their march towards a greater and stronger union.

He said: “Let me repeat what I have been saying that Goodluck Jonathan has no personal agenda in convening this national conference.

“Dear Compatriots, my administration is convening this National Conference today because we believe that we must assume responsibility for ensuring that the long-running national debate on the best way forward for our country is not in vain.

“It is our expectation that participants in this conference will patriotically articulate and syn-

thesise our peoples’ thoughts, views and recommendations for a stronger, more united, peaceful and politically stable Nigeria, forge the broadest possible national consensus in support of those recommendations, and strive to ensure that they are given the legal and constitutional backing to shape the present and the future of our beloved fatherland.

“In inaugurating this national conference today, we are not unmindful of the argument of those who say that we do not need such a conference since we already have an elected Parliament and an elected Government in place.

“As cogent as that argument may sound, I have chosen to act on the sincere conviction that in the truly democratic nation we are striving to build, we must never ignore the loudly expressed views of the majority of ordinary Nigerians.

“I have heard that majority say, that we need to rebuild trust by involving them in the process of developing a guiding document of our national political relationships, which is more acceptable to all sections of the country. I have heard our people say that we need to openly and frankly discuss our problems and seek acceptable solutions instead of allowing them to fester and remain sources of

perennial conflict.

“I have also heard them say that, as the elected representatives of our people, we must never arrogate to ourselves all knowledge and wisdom regarding the development of our country.

“And I am in full agreement with our people. The power we hold is, without question, in trust for the people. Sovereignty belongs to the people. Their voices must be heard and factored into every decision we take on their behalf.

“This National Conference is a very important avenue for the voices of our people to be heard.

Our people have yearnings and desires that need to be discussed. Their representatives at this conference are neither usurping the role of the National Assembly nor the Executive.

They are complementing us in our march towards a greater and stronger union.

“This coming together under one roof to confer and build a fresh national consensus for the amicable resolution of issues that still cause friction amongst our people must be seen as an essential part of the process of building a more united, stronger and progressive nation.

“We cannot continue to fold our arms and assume that things will straighten themselves out in due course, instead of taking

practical steps to overcome impediments on our path to true nationhood, rapid development and national prosperity.

“For many years we have discussed and argued over various issues concerning our national existence and well-being.

“Much of this national discourse has been conducted through the mass media, both print and electronic. More recently, the advent of the age of ICT and social media has greatly enlarged the space for the discussion of our country’s future.

“Many more young and articulate Nigerians who previously had little access to the traditional mass media have now joined the conversation, motivated by patriotic concern for good governance, peace, stability, justice, equity, fairness and the harmonious co-existence of the diverse groups that make up our great nation.”

Describing the inauguration of National Conference as historic which promises to be another significant landmark in the country’s efforts to strengthen national unity and consolidate democratic governance in the country, Jonathan said that he also believed that the National Conference is coming at a very appropriate time.

He said: “Having just celebrated the first centenary of our country, the most compelling

Continued on page 60

Boko Haram: North’s governors meet U.S. officials in Washington •Sect kills two •Troops kill 8 in Yobe

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OVERNORS of some states in the North are in Washington to meet with top United States officials to seek the solution to Boko Haram insurgency.

It could not be ascertained how many of them were already in the United States but Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima and Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda who arrived on Sunday took the opportunity of their early arrival to meet with the world’s richest man, Bill Gates, to get support for their states on polio eradication.

They were at the headquarters of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation yesterday for the meeting.

They are expected to meet with White House officials, President Barack Obama, Con-

President: I’ve no personal agenda for National Conference

Continued on page 1

State Governor Mrs Roli Uduaghan, also attended.

There were also All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) chiefs.

Security agencies had a hectic time controlling the crowd.

At exactly 1.55pm, Obiano’s Deputy Okeke was sworn in by Chief Judge. Justice Peter Umeadi . Governor Obiano took the oath at exactly 2.08pm.

Nollywood actors and actress were not left out which saw Bob Manuel Udokwu performed as one of the compeers.

President Goodluck Jonathan was represented by his Special Adviser on Inter Party affairs, Senator Ben Ndi Obi. He said very soon, Obi would join the federal executive council.

Senator Obi said the hint was given penultimate week by Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala at the Women Development Centre in Awka.

Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, in his prayers said Obi had served meritoriously and was leaving gloriously.

He prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom and vision for the administration of Obiano.

Obi in his farewell speech, said it was the first time such event was taking place in the

task before us, as we move ahead and contemplate what our nation will be at the end of its second century, is to lay a much stronger foundation for faster development.

“This we can achieve by building a more inclusive national consensus on the structure and guiding principles of state that will guarantee our emergence as a more united, progressive and prosperous nation.

“In our history as a political entity, we have experienced highs and lows but have always forged ahead. To my mind, the fact that we have weathered all storms and continued with the mission of evolving a truly national identity signifies that we are going in the right direction.

“The strongest nations in the world today also went through their own formative stages; some for decades and others for centuries. We must learn from them that nationhood will not happen overnight, especially given the circumstances of our birth as a nation.

“History also teaches that nation-building is a journey of dedication, commitment, diligence, perseverance and patriotic vision. To be successful, nationbuilders must continually strive to evolve better and more inclusive societies in which every citizen is a proud and committed stakeholder.

From Adeola Oladele-Fayehun, Washington

gresssional leaders, the National Intelligence Council and the European Union (EU) developmental agencies, among others.

In spite of the search for the solution to the Boko Haram insurgency, there is no let to the sect’s brutality. Suspected members of the sect invaded Pela Birni village in Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State, killing two residents before setting ablaze two churches and many residential houses.

Pela Birni is one of the populated and remote village under Kwajjafa District in southern Borno with Christian domination, and about few kilometres Continued on page 60

•Dr. Jonathan

Jonathan also thanked the National Assembly for introducing the provision for a referendum in the proposed amendment to the Constitution.

The introduction, he said, should be relevant for the Conference if at the end of the deliberations the need for a referContinued on page 60

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NEWS

Delegates: o •Fiscal federalism, regionalism, resource control top agenda

F •Category Business Manager, Nutrition, Nestle Plc, Dr. Mazhar Qureshi, Prof. Paediatrics Niger Delta University, Bayelsa, Prof.

Felix Akinbami, Scientific Expert Advisor, Nestle Research Centre, Switzerland, Dr. Kimmo Makinen and Consultant, Paediatrics Gastroentrologist, University College Hospital Ibadan, Dr. Adepoju Akinlolu at the Nestle Nutrition Symposia in Ibadan...yesterday.

PHOTO: FEMI ILESANMI

•Arik Air Deputy Managing Director, Captain Ado Sanusi (left) receiving the African Achievers Award 'Organisation of The Year' Award won by Arik Air from the Director of African Achievers Award, Mr. Timothy Felix at the awards presentation in Accra, Ghana.

•From left: President, Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF), Prof Oladipo Akinkugbe, Public Relations Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Tope Asiwaju, Chief Operating Officer, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Adhi Narto and General Manager, Power Oil, Mr. Gaurau Dwivedi, during the endorsement of Power Oil by Nigerian Heart Foundation in Lagos.

•The Group Managing Director, UAC of Nigeria Plc, Mr. Larry Ettah, ex- Corp member and the unveiling personality, Miss Doyinsola Ogunye, the Managing Director, Chemical & Allied Products (CAP) Plc, Mrs. Omolara Elemide and the Executive Director, Corporate Services, UAC of Nigeria Plc, Mr. Joe Dada during the unveiling of the 2014 Dulux Colour of the Year in Lagos...yesterday.

ISCAL federalism, resource control, regionalism, devolution of powers and state police are likely to top the agenda of the National Conference, which was inaugurated yesterday by President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

However, many delegates from the North canvassed national unity, cohesion and equity, unlike their counterparts from the South, who clamoured for decentralisation of power and the re-design of the defective federal system.

The composition of the delegates is a blend of old and young politicians, technocrats, traditional rulers and statesmen. Many old delegates, including former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN), who could not stand for a long time or walk alone, were assisted by aides into the National Judicial Institute (NJI) venue. Other aged delegates-Prof. Jibril Aminu, Senator Edwin Clark, and the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Kolapo Gambari-were also accompanied by aides.

Pro-Jonathan campaigners also invaded the venue, displaying Presidential Villa badges. One of them, former Bayelsa State Diepreye Alamiyeseigha, displayed the badge copiously as he moved round to welcome co-delegates on the accreditation crew. The platform also offered a reunion of sorts for former governors and ministers, who exchanged banters.

Clark, who spoke with reporters after his accreditation, said while he supported the unity of Nigeria, the national understanding could only be fruitful in an atmosphere of equity, fairness and justice.

The Ijaw leader said the National Conference can only be meaningful, if it can restore true federalism. He added: “The Southsouth is for true federalism. You can call it resource control. We also need to de-emphasise states and have regions. We need to return to the 1963 constitution. As delegates, we will come up with resolutions that will also end corruption in the country”.

A retired soldier, Gen. Geoffrey Ejiga from Benue State, said he would articulate the rights of the minority groups, adding that the country is incomplete without them. He said: “We should use this opportunity to resolve Nigeria’s problems. Delegates should discuss frankly and with open minds so that we can resolve our basic problems. The constitution should be rewritten so that it can satisfy our yearnings. This is my expectation”.

Gen. Ejiga added: “One Nigeria is my agenda. Proper federalism is my goal. I am from Idoma, a minority tribe from Benue State. The minority should be given their rights to rule themselves in a peaceful Nigeria. In those days , we had the Idoma Native Authority, with its police and prisons. Such arrangements will give minorities the opportunity to express themselves.”

Former Lagos State Military Governor Raji Rasaki compared military and civilian administrations, saying that democracy is better. But, he said to foster popular rule, there is the need to re-design the federal structure to give room for the defence of peculiar interests.

Gen. Rasaki said he looked forward to a conference of issues and understanding, where the right decision that can propel Nigeria forward will be taken by delegates. He also spoke on the agenda dear to his mind, saying that regionalism is the answer to the lopsided federalism.

He stressed: “The zones should

•From Left: Delegates to the National Conference, Gen. Anthony Ukpo, former Military Administrator of Lagos State Gen. Raji Rasaki, Mr Kunle Olajide and Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Bishop Felix Ajakaye, chatting during their rRegistration in Abuja...yesterday.

By Emmanuel Oladesu Group Political Editor

function well and states can operate under them. The six zones can become the component units. Then, you can change the state to another nomenclature”.

Akinjide spoke on Nigeria’s unity, saying that it is non-negotiable. Dismissing the insinuation that the conference will be another jamboree, the elder statesman added: “The leadership of the country is committed to this initiative. The report will see the light of the day”.

The President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Abdulwaheed Omar, said labour representatives would canvass the retention of labour matters in the Exclusive Legislative List to prevent what he called untoward hardship in the hands of the governors.

He also said the NLC delegates would insist on the unity of Nigeria, adding that it has been the pre-occupation of the labour movement since independence.

Omar added: “Something good will come out of the conference and Nigeria will move forward. This is a conference with difference because of the way the delegates were selected. It may not be a perfect selection, but it is a deeper form of selection and representation. Labour representatives will canvass the unity of Nigeria at the conference. We will also canvass the need for improved security, freedom of expression and the need to review this form of government”.

Alhaji Gambari, who spoke with reluctance, avoided the contentious issues. He supported the move to submit the report of the conference to the National Assembly, pointing out that it is in order.

The retired jurist added: “Subjecting the report to the National Assembly is in order. The members of the National Assembly were elected.”

Former Ambassador to Spain, Yusuf Mamman, who represents the Arewa Consultative Forum, said the national question would be brought to the front burner. He added: “We are here to discuss the contentious issues. I am representing the ACF here.”

Former Senate President Ken Nnamani said: “True federalism is the minimum outcome expected from this conference”. He lamented the inequality of zones, pointing out that the Southeast has been marginalised in the distribution of states. He added: “The zones should be equal. That is why we are asking for two more states in the South. They have more states in the dry land than where we have vegetation. The Southeast is densely popu-

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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our expectations at conference

•Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara and former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu exchanging pleasantries during their registration as delegates to the National Conference...yesterday. With them is Alhaji Usman Faruk.

PHOTOS: NAN.

No cause to doubt Jonathan, say delegates

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ANY of the delegates to the National Conference yesterday said they have no cause to doubt President Goodluck Jonathan’s sincerity.

According to some of the delegates, who spoke with The Nation, discussion on the unity of the country and putting the outcome of the conference to referendum would be positive for the country.

Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) National Co-ordinator Ganiyu Adams said: “When yo listen to the speech of the President, you will realise that he takes the conference very seriously by clearing the air that he has no personal agenda for convening the conference.

“From his speech, I can see that he is serious and committed; even from the nomination of the delegates, one can see that his intentions are not politically-motivated.

“I’m happy to part of this history and I promise to represent Nigeria very well because the interest of Nigeria supercedes any other personal interest we might have.”

Lagos lawyer Femi Falana said: “I have no cause to doubt the President on the essence of this conference-- for now. I understand that the agenda of this conference is open, I have no problem with the issue of unity and I think the majority of our people have no problem with that.

“The challenge before the conference is how the delegates would put selfish and regional agenda aside and appreciate that history is beckoning to transform this country from a country of poverty to a land of prosperity having regard to our enormous resources.

“For me, I think the profundity of the resolution that may emerge from the conference will dictate the success or otherwise of the conference.

“What is crucial, first, is to get, under the present constitutional arrangement, the conference has to form a synergy with the National Assembly with a view to getting the members of the legislature to appreciate that the constitution is defective.

“That is Decree 24 of 1999 promulgated by Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Once that is appreciated, we can go from there. If the resolutions are popular and reflect the generality of the interest of Nigerians, I can assure you that it is going to force the National Assembly and the government to subject the resolutions to referendum, so that it can have the input of the Nigerian people.

“But if the delegates decide to satisfy and massage the ego of the elite, we will be back to square one. All those that have come with their own agenda, including the government that is saying the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable, I think that is an arrogant statement.

“For me, It is the way you run the country that will preserve its unity. If you have 4000 jobs and you extort money from 700,000 applicants and in the process make N700,000m and ask the applicants to go to stadia round the country to write examination where there are no tables and chairs, then you can’t talk of unity of Nigeria in the air.

“The unity must be concretised by addressing the problems of underdevelopment, joblessness, corruption,

lated. It is not only one state we need more; we need two states”.

Nnamani dismissed the fear that the National Assembly may tinker with the report, following its submission by the conference. He said: “I don’t think so. The National Assembly will not tinker with it”.

Former military governor of Rivers State and Amanayabo of Opobo Kingdom, King Diette Spiff, said: “What we need in Nigeria is true federalism or what you call resource control. We also need to debate this presidential system of government and parliamentary system to know which is better. Our founding fathers practices parliamentary system and there was a role for traditional rulers. We need

a House of Chiefs for traditional rulers”.

A delegate from Ondo State, Prof.

Femi Mimiko, said the sessions may be stormy, adding that truth can emerge from the frank deliberations. The Vice Chancellor of Ondo State University added: “We need to redesign the federal structure so that we can have truefederalism”.

Former Afenifere Publicity Secretary Mr. Yinka Odumakin said that the conference should be able to make suggestions on how to curb corruption in the country. He also spoke on the mode of ratification of report, saying that referendum is the best. He added: “the main issue is that federalism has been basterdised and the solution is that we

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

decaying infrastructures, and others that you can say our people have to unite.

“On the other hand, if there are centrifugal and centripetal forces trying to tear the country apart, you can’t talk of unity in the air, it must be unity on the basis of Justice and fair play and recognising the rights of our people.

“To start with, Chapter Two of the constitution must be made justiciable, so that those without jobs can have employment benefits. It is in Section 16 of the constitution, access to eduction and a decent living of minimum wage for all Nigerians.

“It is when all these are put in place that you can say the unity of Nigeria is sacrosanct but what we have now is the unity of the elite, the ruling class to corner the resources of the country to the detriment of the masses.

“Saying that we must discuss the unity of this country is a diversionary statement, because the majority of our people have no problem with our unity but with a condition.

“The conditions are that the generality of our people want good educa-

tion for their children, employment and unemployment benefit for the jobless, access to the good things of life.

“It is when all these are in place that we can now say why do we have to talk of breaking up the country like we have a war now of those who have been dislocated, uneducated, unenlightened and have taken up arms against the State.

“If the State is giving unemployment benefit, by way of amnesty to those who were asked to lay down their arms, that is the militants, why won’t you give unemployment benefits to those who have no jobs so that they don’t go to criminalities.

“That is the unity we are looking for, not unity at all cost, not unity that allows the ruling class to loot the treasury of the country. We are looking for the unity that would put food on the table of Nigerians and of we do that, corruption will disappear or go down to the barest level.”

Archbishop John Onaiyekan said: “Arriving at a conclusion, what I heard him say was I think he was telling those here that they should spend the

‘

‘For me, It is the way you run the country that will preserve its unity. If you have 4000 jobs and you extort money from 700,000 applicants and in the process make N700,000m and ask the applicants to go to stadia round the country to write examination where there are no tables and chairs, then you can’t talk of unity of Nigeria in the air’

‘

should return to true federalism. There is the need fpr the devolution of power.

Unitarism has led to s strong centre to the detriment of the component units”.

Former House of Representatives Speaker Ghali Naa’ba supported the ratification of report by the National Assembly, which he described as the custodian of sovereignty. He said: “Nigeria did not elect us as delegates. The National Assembly is elected by the people. Therefore, it is good to subject the report to the National Assembly”.

The Accord leader, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, said, although he is representing the party, he would articulate the grievances of Oyo State at the conference. He noted the Southwest’s clamour for regionalism, saying that it

has limitations. The former governor said: “They are calling for regionalism.

Will Ondo State share its oil with Oyo State under Western Nigeria? This is the issue we should look at”.

However, he reiterated his commitment to the struggle for the creation of Ibadan State, saying that it is long overdue. He added: ‘I don’t think state creation is on the agenda of conference. It is already a constitutional matter. The guidelines are spelt out in the constitution”.

A delegate from Ogun State, Chief Bisi Adegbuyi, said there would be stormy sessions at the conference because of the fundamental issues on the front burner. He decried the lopsided federla arrangement, saying that a

time to cement our unity so that by the time they finish the assignment, thing will be better and feel more united.

“That does not mean the delegates should keep quiet over the grievances we have, rather this should be a forum where those things which are making it difficult for us to work together can be tabled and discussed and dealt with.

“It is a pity that people dwell more on things that divide us, but we can strive to concentrate on those things that unite us. Staying in one’s village all through one’s life can not help us in that direction, going out and interacting with people from other part of the country does have its positive effects of understanding and tolerating ourselves”.

Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko said: “It all depends on what the end will be. I don’t want to comment on the issue because the President has expressed his desire and concurrence with the general opinion of delegates that there should be referendum. He made it clear that he has no objection to that.”

Legal giant Chief Chief Richard Akinjide said: “The President’s speech is excellent because he has been able to show that he understands Nigerian politics and geo-political problems.

From his speech and what we are going to do, the confab is set to take off from a positive note, going by the fact that we are not restricted and advised to drop personal and ethnic interests”.

Former Petroleum Minister Prof.

Jubrin Aminu said: “The President has spoken well and I believe he meant what he said. For me, I won’t be here if I am convinced that the conference won’t work out well for Nigerians.” powerful centre is counter-productive.

Adegbuyi, a lawyer and politician, said rehgionalism is the solution to the defective federal system, stressing that it will offer opportunities for self-determination.

Former Anambra State Governor Chukwuemeka Ezeife called for the equality of zones, adding that it is a factor in national unity. He also said that fiscal federalism should be the irreducible minimum outcome of the conference.

The former governor objected to the proposed ratification of the report by the National Assembly. He said: “I don’t support the submission of the report of the conference to the National Assembly. The people of Nigeria should receive the report”.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

NEWS U.S., Honeywell partner for industrial complex

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

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HE United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and Honeywell Group are to sign an agreement to jointly fund a study on a petrochemicalcomplex.

The study will cost $514,000.

The grant signing ceremony will takeplace on Thursday at the residence of the U.S.Consul General in Lagos.

A statement by the Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the United States Consulate General said: “Under the agreement to be signed, USTDA is providing $257,000 while the Honeywell Group will also provide $257,000 for the study making a total study budget of $514,000.

“The study will evaluate various types of facilities which could produce different chemical outputs, including: (1) methanol (2) fertiliSer chemicals such as urea and ammonia, and (3) petrochemicals such as ethylene, propylene, and/or benzene products.

“The study will also develop a simulation model(s) that will provide the grantee with recommendations on which of these facilities should be included in the Project, the size/scale of these facilities, the sources of feedstock for the facilities, and a site location for the Project.

“In addition, the study will include a market survey on the current demand of the different chemical outputs which could result from the Project.

The market survey will assess the domestic and international markets for the potential chemical outputs of the facilities, as well as the capital costs required, potential U.S. suppliers, and any potential barriers to the Project.”

Courts should carry out substantial justice, says Karibi-Whyte R

ETIRED Supreme Court Justice Adolphus KaribiWhyte yesterday enjoined courts to “avoid technical justice and do substantial justice”.

Justice Karibi-Whyte delivered a lecture titled ‘’In the Eyes of the Law” at the weeklong celebration of the 35th anniversary of the National Institute of Legal Studies (NIALS) in Abuja.

The retired judge said the decision of the Supreme Court on the 1979 presidential election adding that it was “one case that resonated so many years after the decision had been handed down”.

He said two other election petitions decided by the apex court which included the Adamawa and Rivers governorship election of 1999 and 2007 respectively adding that the decisions remained “jurisprudential”.

Justice Karibi-Whyte said:

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

“In Nigeria, we have several notable judicial pronouncements and I chose to discuss three which I consider novel in many respects.

“What is 12 two-third of 19 will continue resonate in this country and beyond; the expanded definition of death in the Adamawa case will remain a challenge to lawyers and medical practitioners.

“And that someone whose name was omitted in election boxes and deprived of standing for election was eventually declared a winner has remained jurisprudential. In the cases analysed, the issue has been whether the courts make or interpret laws.

“It is trite that courts do

not make but expound the law and in doing this it is in the interest of justice and fair play to shy away from technicalities,” he said.

He noted that there was a need for words used in decisions to be explicit adding that the rules of interpretation were meant to aid effective creation of statutes.

Also speaking, Prof.

Epiphany Azinge, DirectorGeneral, NAILS, told reporters that the lecture was a way for stakeholders to share their views and also sensitise the public on decisions of the judiciary.

“It is not often that the public exception of what the judiciary has done seems to be in accord with their expectation but it is not for everybody to interpret the law.

“The decision is vested in the judges so even if they make mistakes in the course of their interpretation, we have to live with such mistakes.

“But in order to make sure mistakes are corrected, we have the hierarchy of the courts.

“We have taken this as an opportunity for them to ventilate their views on this matter and sensitise people.

“They should continue to bear with us and understand that in the course of interpretation there are certain technicalities that must come to mind and the judges are trained to do so.”

The lecture was part of activities to mark the week long 35th Anniversary of the institute.

Ministry, NMA, others for seminar

By Precious Igbonwelundu

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HE Federal Ministry of Health is organising a business development seminar for healthcare entrepreneurs at the upcoming Medipharma Expo on Thursday, at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos.

The seminar is in collaboration with the Association of General Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Medipharmafrica, Anadach Group and Global Health Project & Resources.

The theme of the seminar is “Key issues on Business Development for the Healthcare Entrepreneur” and will feature areas, such as feasibility studies, marketing and branding; financing your project or expansion; business plans; buying and maintaining equipment; legal, liability and regulatory concerns; people: recruiting and working with motivated personnel and what it takes to be successful – real life experience.

According to Dr. Egbe OsifoDawodu of Anadach Group, one of the organisers of the seminar: “This provides an opportunity for individuals/potential investors interested in the healthcare industry to understand the intricacies of a healthcare business. It will also enable attendees understand efficient strategies and identify requirements required to establish a viable healthcare business.”

•Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano (left) taking the Oath of Office before the Chief Judge, Justice Peter Umeadi in Awka...yesterday. With him is his wife, Ebelechukwu and children.

PHOTO: NAN

Insurgency: Mark, Ihedioha seek assistance of African nations

S

ENATE President David Mark yesterday urged African countries to collaborate with Nigeria in the fight against insurgents in some states in the Northern part of the country.

Mark spoke with reporters at the on-going 130th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

He said the fight against terrorism had grown beyond the confines of a single nation which obviously demanded the collaboration of all nations to combat.

The senate president said only peace and democracy would promote security in the land.

He said all emphasis should be on democracy and global peace that would facilitate development.

Mark said if all nations cooperate to fight insurgency, the perpetrators would have no hiding place.

He said delegates to the Assembly were getting perspectives of other nations

and how some of them solved similar problems in their domains.

In a remark, the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, said the growing insurgency was threatening and undermining the peace of the nation.

He said; “all hands must be on deck to end the menace.”

Ihedioha urged neighbouring African countries to support Nigeria to resolve this intractable issue of Boko Haram.

Ihedioha said; “after the Nigerian civil war ended, never have we had our stability distracted as we have now.

“We urge countries like Mali, Cameroun, Niger and

other neighbouring countries to join forces to find solution to the problems,” he said.

Ihedioha believed that the insurgents ravaging Nigeria were not only Nigerian citizens, hence the cooperation of other countries had become necessary.

Mark, who is leading the Nigerian delegation, will address the IPU at plenary, on peace and the way insurgency is being tackled in the country on Tuesday

Fed Govt to sanction Chinese firm for transformer fire

M

INISTER of Power Prof.

Chinedu Nebo has said the Federal Government will sanction the Chinese company which manufactured the 150MVA transformer which caught fire at the Osogbo Transmission Centre.

Nebo said this in a statement issued by the ministry on Monday in Abuja.

He said the company would be punished if investigations into the fire incident showed that the product was sub-standard.

“The measure, when taken, will serve as a deterrent to those other manufacturers of fake and sub-standard products and equipment,’’ the statement quoted the minister to have said.

It said the minister, who was at the project site in Osogbo last weekend to assess the level of damage, said investigation to unravel the cause of the fire was still ongoing.

The statement, however, said the minister was “reliably informed’’ that the fire was likely to have been caused by installation failure.

It said this might have resulted from “sub-standard coils used in the transformer’’.

The statement said a new 150MVA transformer, originally procured for the expansion of power supply network in Osogbo, would be used to replace the burnt one.

It added that Nebo appealed to the communities where power supply had been disrupted as a result of the fire incident for understanding.The statement said the minister assured them that full electricity supply would soon be restored to their area.

It said Nebo also commended the efforts of the fire-fighters who stopped the fire from consuming other transformers close to the burnt one.

•Nebo

‘Only five per cent of farmers have improved seeds’

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HE West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme in Nigeria (WAAPP-Nigeria) has said only five per cent of Nigerian farmers have access to improved seeds.

The National Coordinator of the programme, Prof.

Damian Chekwendu,spoke yesterday at the 2014 Seed Production Planning meeting in Minna.

He said Nigeria had the lowest agriculture growth

indices among leading developing nations like Brazil, Malaysia and Thailand.

“The percentage of farmers with access to improved seeds in the country is about five per cent compared to 25 per cent in East Africa and 60 per cent in Asia. “ A g r i c u l t u r a l mechanisation intensity is about 10 tractors per 1000 hectares compared to 241 per 1000 hectares in Indonesia.

“Nigeria cannot continue to tolerate this state of things,’’ he said.

Chikwendu said that WAAPP intended to support community seed multiplication this year.

He said that WAAPP would collaborate with ADPs, AFAN, communitybased association under the supervision of the Nigerian Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) to achieve the significant results.

The coordinator said that

WAAPP in 2013 had inaugurated seven private seed companies to produce maize, rice and sorghum seeds.

He said that the companies had produced 432 tonnes of various varieties of maize and 150 tonnes of improved sorghum seeds.

According to him, 172 tonnes of rice and 15.603 tonnes of sorghum had been distributed to farmers in WAAPP adopted villages.

THE NATION TUESDAY MARCH 18, 2014

NEWS

IMMGRATION JOB STAMPEDE

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Families slam Immigration for death of loved ones

HE families of the applicants, who died last Saturday during the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) recruitment at Elekahia Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have slammed NIS for the death of their loved ones.

Five youths died during the exercise.

Our reporter yesterday visited three of the bereaved families. They described the deaths of their loved ones as unfortunate and a disgrace to the nation.

The families blamed Immigration for the poor conduct of the exercise.

The three victims, whose families were visited were Grace Nwokaku Amah, 28, from Ubima community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, Kalu Sunday Okezie, 31, from Okon-aku autonomous community in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State and Brown Darlington, 25, from Opobo-Nkoro Local Government, Rivers State.

The late Grace’s fiancé, Mr. Eleonu Gift, was seen weeping at the mortuary when The Nation got to Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital (BMSH). He said their wedding had been scheduled for April 20.

Eleonu said they had done the traditional wedding, adding that what remained was the white wedding.

He said amid sobs: “What am I going to do now? I did not agree that she should go for the recruitment because

•The late Sunday From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

our wedding had been fixed for April 20. So, I did not want her to be part of the exercise. God knows I love her.”

At Ogbunabali community, where the late Brown Darlington lived, one of his relations, Mr. Samuel Jaja, said he participated in the recruitment with the deceased and decried the NIS for organising a shoddy recruitment.

He said they sat on the

•The late Brown

•The late Grace

floor at the stadium to write the examination, which was abnormal.

“The exercise was a failure. The Immigration authority was not ready for the test. I wept watching my brother suffocate. It was like a movie. It is painful.”

At Obigbo, where the late Kalu Sunday Okezie’s family live, his cousin said no amount of compensation would bring the deceased back.

He said Sunday became interested in the Immigra-

tion job because of his zeal to be useful.

He urged the government to value people’s lives.

“His death is painful. We would have buried him, but the family is making arrangement for his funeral.

To be sincere, the Immigration authority didn’t put their house in order.”

Mr. Femi Tosin Odubela, the chief mortuary attendant, said one of the victims from Akwa-Ibom State had been buried.

One dead, two hospitalised in Bauchi

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HE Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Bauchi yesterday confirmed that one person died and two were hospitalised at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi.

The Comptroller of Immigration, Ejukwule Usman, spoke with reporters at the Federal Secretariat, Bauchi.

He said the injured were responding to treatment.

Usman said: “Mudashir Mohammed Ahmed, the only person, who died at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, venue of the recruitment, hailed from Shira Local Government.

“NIS is yet to ascertain the cause of his death, as autopsy was not conducted before he was buried according to Islamic rites.”

He said 9,383 applicants came for the recruitment, out

of which Bauchi had 8,883 applicants, while Yobe had 500. The Yobe applicants came to Bauchi, following insecurity in the state.

An unofficial source in NIS told our correspondent that the recruitment was poorly organised and Immigration officials did not help matters, as they rough-handled applicants, leading to a stampede.

“The problem we faced

during the recruitment was caused by poor preparation.

The command received a short notice for the exercise, so we could not notify the applicants in time.

“Secondly, the command did not shortlist qualified candidates. Instead, it gave an open invitation to the applicants. That was why there was a massive turnout, which resulted in a stampede,” the source added.

Mark’s wife denies role in recruitment

S

ENATE President David Mark’s wife, Helen Onma, yesterday described as a “wicked lie”, an allegation, which linked her with the consultants, who organised the recruitment by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) last Saturday.

Nineteen applicants, including three expectant women, reportedly died in the cities where the recruitment was held. Scores were injured.

F

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Mrs. Mark, who decried the report, according to a statement by the Media Adviser to the Senate President, Kola Ologbondiyan, in Abuja, said the rumour was the figment of the imagination of those behind it.

The statement reads: “It is strange to me because I do not know the consultant, who

organised the recruitment, neither did I play any role in the exercise.

“I have no relationship with the consultants.

“This moment demands solemnity and mourning of the precious souls lost in the tragic incidents.

“It is not a time to settle political scores. I will leave those dragging my name into this painful death of our youths to their consciences and unto God.

•Mark

“As a mother, I sympathise with the parents of these youths as well as the nation over the loss of our children.”

Afe Babalola advocates life for illegal varsities’ proprietors

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HE founder, Afe Babalola University, AdoEkiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), has advocated life imprisonment for proprietors of illegal universities.

He said such individuals must also be made to forfeit their property.

Noting the urgency of need to overhaul/amend the law, which established the National Universities Commission (NUC), to enable it deal with the current experience in tertiary education, Babalola said: “There is need to amend Section 22 of the Law on Powers of NUC to close down illegal universities.”

He spoke yesterday at the institution while addressing the accreditation team of the NUC led by Mr. Muhammed Ndanusa, a deputy director at the NUC, who led the team.

Said he: “As at today, besides the United States of America, Nigeria has the largest number of illegal universities or institutions. I am worried about the irreparable damage these illegal institutions and their op-

swindle orchestrated by the leadership of the Nigeria Immigration Service, in conjunction with the Ministry of Interior, were trampled upon and crushed to death in a stampede which occurred in several centres in the country.

“The tragic import of this shame of a country, awash with petro-dollars, should not be lost on genuine patriots. The latest news on the gross abuse of the rights of the citizens of this country by officials of Nigeria Immigration Service nay the Ministry of Interior must be challenged vigorously.”

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

erators are doing to millions of students and their parents.”

According to Babalola, the NUC act was passed in 1985, while the law, which regulated the establishment of private universities, came only in 1990.

He added: “There is therefore need to put in place new laws, which can address the current challenges.”

Babalola said the law should also be amended to give NUC the power to verify the certificates of university lecturers and professors, adding: “Many of them have been discovered to parade fake certificates.

“We have discovered that many lecturers and professors parade fake certificates. There is need to make a law, which will impose severe punishment on those parading such certificates.”

Ndanusa hailed the ABUAD founder for the progress made so far in ensuring quality in the university.

Nigeria urges Mali, Cameroun, Niger to help crush Boko Haram

N

IGERIA yesterday asked neighbouring countries, such as Mali, Cameroun and Niger to collaborate with it in the fight against the Boko Haram insurgents.

A statement by Senate President David Mark’s Chief Press Secretary, Paul Mumeh, said he (Mark) canvassed for this position at the ongoing 130th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

Mark, according to the statement, noted that terrorism had grown beyond the confines of a nation, which demanded the collaboration of all nations to combat it.

He said peace and democracy would promote security.

The Senate President said emphasis should be on democracy and global peace to facilitate development.

He was of the view that if all nations cooperated in the

S

From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

fight against insurgency, the perpetrators would have no hiding place.

The statement quoted the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, as saying that insurgency was threatening and undermining peace.

He said: “All hands must be on deck to end the menace.”

Ihedioha urged neighbouring countries to support Nigeria to end the Boko Haram insurgency.

He said: “Since the civil war ended, never have we had our stability distracted as we have now. We urge countries like Mali, Cameroun, Niger and others to join forces to find a solution to the problem.”

Ihedioha said “the insurgents ravaging Nigeria are not our citizens, hence the cooperation of other countries has become necessary.”

‘Join in the fight against corruption’

PEAKER of the House of Representatives Aminu Tambuwal has urged quantity surveyors to join in the fight against corruption.

He said they should expose the contractors using substandard materials and inflating the cost of construction.

The Speaker, who was the special guest of honour at the closing ceremony of a twoday international workshop of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) in Osogbo, also enjoined the surveyors to have input into the laws about construction to arrest decay in infrastructure.

Tambuwal, who praised Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola on good govern-

Akeredolu laments death of job seekers

ORMER President of the Nigerian Bar association (NBA) Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu yesterday criticized the death of job seekers, saying “somebody must take responsibility for these calamities.”

He spoke in a statement ‘The recruitment tragedy and the festering sore of a country at crossroad.’

Akeredolu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said: “The country was treated again to another round of calamities last weekend.

“Scores of our youths who went to participate in the national

7

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

ance, said he was prominent among those who made his emergence as the Speaker possible.

Aregbesola described as apt, the theme of the workshop titled: “Towards Sustained Growth of Emerging Economies in Africa: The Infrastructural Imperatives.”

The governor said Osun State was first in high employment index, while Niger was in the eighth position, adding that the peace in the state was traceable to presence of huge human development in the state.

He described as “reprehensible that these funny elements have extorted over N2 billion from these hapless citizens whose only sin is their being Nigerians.

“At the end of the organised scam, many of our youths died while several others sustained serious injuries.”

He added that: “It should now be clear to apologists of this government that it has done almost nothing to create hope for our youths. The sheer number of the mammoth crowd who practically seized all the venues of the organised crime is instructive.”

8

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

NEWS

•Olaoluwa Muslim Grammar School...yesterday. PHOTOS: SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN

•Alhaja Musa’s house...yesterday.

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Scores count losses as rainstorm destroys homes in Ado-Ekiti

ESIDENTS of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, are counting their losses, following Sunday’s rainstorm, which blew off the roofs of many buildings.

From Ijigbo, Ajilosun and Adebayo to Olaoluwa, Basiri and Oke-Oriomi, the rainstorm destroyed homes and schools.

Among the affected structures are the multi-purpose hall of the Ola-Oluwa Muslim Grammar School; the covered walkway of the Ile Abiye Hospital and electricity poles across the town.

Alhaja Sifau Musa, whose one storey building at Ayeg-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

bami Street around Olaoluwa was affected, said: “I am tired of life. Around 5pm on Sunday, the wind started blowing and blew off the roof. This is the fourth time this is happening to me. Unfortunately, I am a widow and a motor accident rendered me immobile.

“This is the fourth time this evil wind is blowing off my roof. Every time this happens, I spend over N65,000 on repairs. It happened in 2005, 2009, 2011 and has happened again. I cannot afford to even feed myself, as I had an acci-

dent in 2004 and have not been working. My husband is dead and our children are not working.”

The state government sympathised with the victims, assuring them that “help is on the way”.

Deputy Governor Prof.

Modupe Adelabu said the State Emergency Management Agency (EKSEMA) had been directed to compile a list of victims and properties destroyed by the rainstorm.

Mrs. Adelabu, who went round the town to assess the damage, expressed surprise at its magnitude.

She said there was little or nothing anybody or the gov-

ernment could do to prevent such a natural disaster, other than to ensure that structures are not built on the water ways.

She urged the people to build with standard materials and patronise building professionals.

The deputy governor urged contractors and bricklayers to involve civil engineers at the planning stage of buildings for quality assurance.

The government has directed EKSEMA officials to compile a list of victims with a view to ascertaining the damage and fashioning out ways of cushioning the effects.

Call Ekiti PDP, LP to order, Fayemi Campaign urges police E KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi’s Campaign Organisation has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of “reactivating” violence in the state.

It urged well-meaning Nigerians, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to be wary of the PDP’s “violent actions”, which it said are informed by the fear of electoral defeat.

In a statement by its spokesman, Dimeji Daniels, the organisation said: “Confronted by the reality that the people of Ekiti State have rejected it, the PDP has activated its longorchestrated series of violent acts against the peace-loving people.”

It accused the PDP and “its Labour Party (LP) extension” of contracting mercenary would-be voters from Kogi and Ondo states, adding that 18 of the mercenaries from Idanre in Ondo State were arrested by the police at the weekend.

The organisation said: “The plan to get these impostors registered in Ekiti State did not pan out well, as Ekiti people resisted this gross and intentional violation of the Electoral Act. Last Sunday, some PDP hoodlums attempted to smuggle in mercenary voters at St. Luke’s African Church Primary School Polling Unit, Ayede/Itaji Ward 10, but they were resisted.

“This obviously angered PDP hoodlums at the polling unit, who later trailed Mr. Bolaji Matthew, one of the registered voters at the poll-

•LP: we have no hand in violence From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

ing unit and the Supervisor for Education in Oye Local Government, to his home in Oloje, Oye Local Government, where they beat the daylight out of him. Matthew is still receiving treatment at a hospital.

“An hour later, these hoodlums descended on the INEC office in Oye Local Government to cart away voter registration materials and Direct Data Capturing (DDC) machines.

“If the PDP could exhibit this level of desperation and show of naked violence at this time, one can imagine what it is planning for the election on June 21. We are well aware that the PDP has been holding series of nocturnal meetings to perfect its violent acts.

We are also aware of its boast that it would send fear down the spine of APC members in Ekiti State, as well as its plan to kidnap top officials of the state government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) and blame it on the insecurity in the country.

“However, everyone knows Ekiti is peaceful, meaning that the PDP’s plan would be dead on arrival. While we were not in government, we fought the PDP legally without resorting to self-help to retrieve our stolen mandate.

We will continue on this path,

‘While we were not in government, we fought the PDP legally without resorting to self-help to retrieve our stolen mandate’ but let it be known to all those beating the drums of war that the APC cannot be cowed and will resist their violent acts.

We will make sure that the PDP’s seven-and-a-half years of the locusts in Ekiti State are not relived. Ekiti people say NEVER AGAIN to the PDP! We shall no more see the Egyptians we saw between May 29, 2003 and October 15, 2010!”

The organisation condemned a statement credited to an LP governorship aspirant, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele, that the June 21 election is “fight to finish”.

It said: “We condemn a statement credited to Bamidele yesterday. At a town hall meeting in Iyin-Ekiti, superintended by the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Ademola Ajakaiye, where Bamidele was quoted to have said that the June 21 election is ‘fight to finish’ and that he would not hesitate to mobilise thugs to

Ekiti State from Mushin in Lagos State. This utterance is unbecoming of someone aspiring to lead a progressive state like Ekiti.

“Indeed, some LP thugs loyal to Bamidele inflicted machete cuts on two APC members, Ojo Seyi and Busuyi Alake, during the distribution of permanent voter cards in Iyin-Ekiti. He indeed acted true to his threats before uttering them to the gathering of Iyin-Ekiti sons and daughters. This is barbaric, inhuman and desperate.

“While the Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation commends the Police for arresting the mercenary voters from Idanre in Ondo State, we urge the force to call the PDP and LP to order. We equally call on well-meaning stakeholders to condemn these barbaric acts of the PDP and the Bamidele faction of the LP. When ambition becomes desperation, men of goodwill must not remain silent. We must jointly ensure that desperate politicians do not return Ekiti to the days of One Day, One Trouble.

“Ekiti people have made up their minds to vote for Dr. John Kayode Fayemi. All these violent acts by the PDP and the LP will not win them a single vote in Ekiti. They have been rejected by the people before the election.”

LP State Chairman Akin Omole denied the allegations, saying: “If there is any party suspected to have perpetrated illegality in the registration, it was the APC.”

Ekiti poll: PDP drops consensus option

•Fixes primary for Saturday

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HE leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has fixed Saturday for its primary election in Ekiti State, where the party’s flag bearer for the June 21 poll will be elected.

The PDP leadership took the decision yesterday after a meeting with the 14 aspirants in Abuja, where the aspirants failed to agree on a consensus candidate.

It was learnt that one of the aspirants, former Governor Ayo Fayose, insisted on the conduct of a primary election.

T

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

Ward congresses for the selection of delegates for the primaries begins today.

Speaking with reporters after the meeting, PDP National Publicity Secretary Chief Olisa Metuh said the need for a primary arose because the aspirants could not agree on the consensus option.

Metuh said the party would support a consensus option only if all the aspirants agree, adding that the party would go ahead with the primary even if only one aspirant disagreed.

10 burnt to death in Lagos-Ibadan road crash

EN people were burnt to death yesterday in an accident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

Four people were injured.

Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Commander, Oluyole Unit, Sanya Adeoye said the accident involved three vehicles - two trucks and one 18-seater Toyota Hiace commercial bus numbered BDG 767 XB. He said a truck, marked SW 175 EPE, which was coming out of the NSCE Quarry ran into another truck.

Adeoye said another truck coming from Lagos ran into the commercial bus and

From Tayo Johnson and Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

smashed it into the two trucks.

He said the bus went up in flames and the fire spread to the trucks.

Those injured were occupants of one of the trucks.

They were taken to the University College Hospital (UCH).

The bodies were deposited at the mortuary of the Adeoyo State Hospital.

Efforts were made by the FRSC Unit Commander to reach the victims’ families through the bus’ manifest, which was not burnt.

Church marks 20th anniversary

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AGOS State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Dr. Obafemi Hamzat has urged youths to contribute to the nation’s growth.

He spoke while opening the 20th Annual Synod of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, held at the Hoare’s Memorial Methodist Cathedral in Yaba. The synod is an annual event to mark the church’s anniversary. This year’s programme, themed: “Let my people move forward”, was hosted by the Yaba Circuit.

Hamzat, who was the special guest of honour, urged youths to change their opinion about the country

By Everistus Onwuzurike

and strive to make it better.

He said the government cannot solve the country’s problems alone and urged the people to do their part.

The Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Rt. Rev. Isaac Ayo Olawuyi, urged the people to have faith in God in whatever situation they find themselves.

Prayers were said for the church and the state. Donations were received for the construction of the bishop’s office complex and indigent students were awarded scholarships.

The church’s leaders and guests cut the anniversary cake and guests read their goodwill messages.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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NEWS

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Ogun: OOU lecturers protest irregular salary payment

ECTURERS at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), AgoIwoye in Ogun State yesterday protested the irregular payment of their salary, allowances and poor funding of the institution by the state government.

The lecturers gathered at the Mini campus by 10:15 a.m. and marched to the permanent site, seven kilometres away.

They said for three years, their salary had been irregular, “making it impossible for them to have financial plans.”

The lecturers said they would shun lectures indefinitely until the authorities address their grievances.

Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), OOU branch, Dr. Deji Agboola accused the management of being insensitive to their plight and urged Governor Ibikunle Amosun to make the pay-

‘

This has embarrassed and ridiculed our members, some of whom cannot even pay their rents and meet other basic needs. This situation is capable of exposing our members to the temptation of unethical practices...

•Boycott classes From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

ment of their salary one of his priorities.

Agboola said: “In the last three years, salaries have been irregular. This unfortunate trend has persisted, thus making our members irresponsible and unable to meet their socio-personal and financial obligations.

It is embarrassing that our wards at university-run institutions, such as the OOU Staff School and OOU International School are sent home for non-payment of fees.

’

“This has embarrassed and ridiculed our members, some of whom cannot even pay their rents and meet other basic needs. This situation is capable of exposing our members to the temptation of unethical practices. It is ironic that a university that is waging a war against such unethical practices could be failing in its primary responsibility of paying the salary of its workers, knowing full well that this is their main source of income.

“While we are mindful of the implication of any action that may cripple the university’s calendar, we can no longer condone an

insensitive and harsh working condition, which is injurious to our members’ productivity. We are tired of working for two months and receiving one month salary. Our members have affirmed that they have been deprived the opportunity to come to work, as salaries are not paid.”

ASUU Zonal Coordinator Dr. Adesola Nasir said the state failed to develop infrastructure in the institution and assured the lecturers of the support of the ASUU national secretariat.

At the permanent site, the lecturers presented their grievances to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof.

Saburi Adesanya, to be forwarded to the governor.

Adesanya pleaded with them not to shun classes, saying the management was would correct the anomalies in salary payment.

Ikuforiji’s trial stalled

By Precious Igbonwelundu

•Ikuforiji

T

HE money laundering case against Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji before a Federal High Court in Lagos was stalled yesterday, as the judge was attending a seminar organised by the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

At the resumed hearing before Justice Ibrahim Buba, prosecuting counsel Godwin Obla (SAN) said he was aware of the seminar and consented to an adjournment.

Without objecting, defence counsel Wole Olanipekun (SAN) urged the prosecution to produce his remaining witnesses on the next date.

Olanipekun said: “I do not know how many witnesses my learned friend has left, but if he will produce them on the next adjourned date, we will not mind being the tenant of the court.”

Justice Buba adjourned the case till today, urging the prosecution to produce its witnesses.

Ikuforiji and his personal assistant, Oyebode Atoyebi, were charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 54-count of money laundering, to which they pleaded not guilty.

They were granted N1 billion bail each with two sureties each.

EFCC alleges that the duo, between April, 2010 and July, 2011, accepted N273.3 million from the Lagos Assembly without the money going through a financial institution.

EFCC alleges that Ikuforiji misappropriated N500 million of the Assembly’s funds.

Lagos commission gets secretary

M

By Oziegbe Okoeki

RS. Adejoke Odeyemi has been appointed as the secretary of the Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission (LAHASCOM).

She replaces Mr. Ibisola Ogayemi, who has retired.

S •Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (middle); Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Bimbo Ashiru (second right; Dr. Chukwu Chime (right) and the Regional Vice-President (Nigeria), China/Africa Investment Club, Mr. William Wang during the China/Africa Investment Club’s delagation’s visit to Amosun in Abeokuta ... yesterday.

T

Ondo PDP faults delegates’ list

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State yesterday faulted the government’s list to the national conference.

It vowed to win the by-election in Ilaje/Eseodo fixed for April 5.

At a reconciliation meeting in Akure, PDP said the nomination of political office holders as delegates does not represent majority of the people.

It said the delegates - ViceChancellor of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Femi Mimiko; Commissioner for Adult and Vocational Education Remi Olatubora; Commissioner for Environment Sola Ebiseeni and Commissioner for Women Affairs Mrs. Yemi Mamud – were not the state’s best.

The PDP meeting was attended by Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim; Prof. Olu Agbi; Mr. Ife Adedipe (SAN); Prince Adetokunbo Kayode (SAN); Chief Soji Adesugba; Prin-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

cess Oladunni Odu; Mr. Ayo Ifayefunmi; Mr. Ebenezer Alabi; Dr. Tayo Dairo and Mrs. Janet Febisola Adeyemi, among others.

It praised President Goodluck Jonathan for setting up the national conference, but said: “Having given a critical overview to the list from Ondo State, we observed that many of them are political office holders, who do not represent opinion leaders, ethnic groups, political or geographical balances of the people of Ondo State.”

PDP urged the President to redress the “imbalance”, so the names of “persons with proven integrity” can be put on the list.

On the reconciliation of aggrieved PDP members, Ibrahim said if all state chapters in the Southwest reconcile aggrieved members, the party would have a better chance of winning back the Southwest.

He said: “Do not joke with the PDP’s desire. When PDP says it is going to win an election, you should take it serious.”

On the party’s prospects in next year’s elections, Ibrahim said: “I have never seen an incumbent in a developing country lose an election. I do not know how they do it, but they always win.”

Fayefunmi said: “This is the final reconciliation meeting of PDP leaders in Ondo State. Hitherto, there were PDP factions, but we have buried our hatchet and now have one PDP in Ondo State.

We have considered a the issues affecting our party’s growth. One of them is the national conference. As a party, we have taken a position on the list from Ondo State.

“We urge the President to to redress this imbalance and include persons of proven integrity and accountability from Ondo State.

“We have taken a look at the by-election in Ilaje/EseOdo. The PDP will work hard to win thet election.

That is one of our strongholds. Without rigging, which we will not allow, we will win.”

Ojudu writes Senate over ‘injustice’ to retired officer

ENATOR Babafemi Ojudu (Ekiti Central) has petitioned the Senate over the “unjust” treatment of one of his constituents, former Police Commissioner Emmanuel Oladipo Ayeni (rtd), by the police.

He said Ayeni was being punished by the police authorities for “making critical comments” about the force at his passing-out after 32 years of “unblemished” service.

Ayeni was queried and his retirement letter withheld by the police, so he could not process his benefits.

Ojudu said: “Holding on to Ayeni’s retirement letter for over a year for no just cause smacks of wickedness against a committed officer, who spoke out against a system that has continued to disappoint Nigerians in the performance of its du-

ties.”

He said it was traditional for retiring officers to speak on issues plaguing the police and the nation at their pull-out parade.

Ojudu said he was ready to mobilise Nigerians to ensure the reversal of “this blatant injustice, which is capable of demoralising men of sound judgment and good conscience from speaking the truth.”

He said: “Should the police get away with this act of injustice to an officer who gave 32 years of his life to the service without blemish, then it can be better imagined what can be done to men or women of lower rank.”

The petition was received

by Senate President David Mark and forwarded to the Senate Committee on Petitions and Ethics.

THE NATION TUESDAY MARCH 18, 2014

10

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08078425391

Poly students protest ASUP strike in Lagos ,,

P

OLYTECHNIC students in Lagos State took to the streets yesterday to protest the on-going strike by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP). The strike is in its ninth month.

They disrupted traffic flow along the ever-busy Ikorodu Road, causing a gridlock that extended as far as Yaba on the Lagos Mainland.

The students, under the aegis of Concerned Students Against Education Commercialisation (CASATEC), began the protest by 9am at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH).

They displayed placards with various inscriptions like: “We are tired of staying at home”, “We want to go back to classroom”, “Spend money on education, not on confab”, “The idle mind is the devil’s workshop”, “Education is a right not privilege”, and “We are tired of watching Africa Magic”.

Hassan Taiwo Soweto, National Coordinator, Education Rights Campaign (ERC), who led the students in the protest, said the strike had affected them negatively.

“We are out in the streets to show our displeasure at the ASUP strike and for the government to meet our demands;

We cannot stay at home and watch the strike continue. This is the first phase of the protest; it will continue next week if the government refuses to implement the agreement...’

,,

By Ibrahim Yusuff and Balikis Moyosore

we are tired of staying at home and also most of the students are now engaging in immoral acts,” he said.

Another ERC member, Adeeko Kehinde, said: ‘’Government should meet ASUP’s demands instead of spending millions of naira on National Confab. Also B.Sc certificate should equate HND because apart from spending more

•CLOSE CLOSE:: The Dopemu-Akowonjo link bridge that caused traffic...yesterday.

years in school than the university students, our experience, if not more, will be equal to theirs.”

Deputy Coordinator, ERC, Lateef Adams, said the aim of the protest was to appeal to the Federal Government to implement the agreement it signed with ASUP, adding that failure to implement the agreements would lead to the continuation of the protest.”

“As responsible students, we cannot stay at home and watch the strike continue. This is the first phase of the protest;

it will continue next week if the government refuses to implement the agreement before next week,” he said.

Also the coordinator of ERC, YABATECH branch, Lateef Ibrahim called for unity and collaboration among the students to continue with the protest despite criticisms from some quarters.

When the students got to the top of the bridge at Maryland, they played music, danced and stood there for sometime, while vehicle users were forced to watch their an-

tics until they dispersed after about an hour. They hijacked five empty BRT buses which conveyed them back to YABATECH. Some pedestrians and policemen praised the students for their courage and hoped that the government would listen to them and act on the situation.

Mr Joshua Ayokunmi, Speaker, Student Union Government, YABATECH, urged government to end the strike to save the future of youths studying in polytechnics.

PHOTOS: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

Ayokunmi said the protest was to draw government’s attention to the yearnings of the students who were being affected by the strike.

“We are protesting to show our frustration and we do not support the strike. We are not happy with the government because the strike is being prolonged unnecessarily. We want the government to meet the demands of our lecturers so that we can go back to school. We are pleading,” he said.

NEWS (SHOWBIZ) Organisers unveil plans for Africa Fashion Week Nigeria

A

S this year’s edition of the Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) gathers momentum, organisers have revealed plans to provide a strong platform, particularly for emerging designers to showcase their talents and ultimately gain national attention. Africa Fashion Week Nigeria is an off-shoot of the widely acclaimed Africa Fashion Week London.

According to Ronke Ademiluyi, founder of AFW London, “AFW Nigeria believes in emerging talents and our core aim is providing visibility platforms for new talents who would otherwise not have the means to gather national attention. ”There must be a platform that celebrates and contributes to the development of creativity. That is what gave birth to the idea of Africa Fashion Week. We have provided the platform and invited the people to come and see these designs. Therefore, fashion designers should come and register by visiting www.africafashionweek-nigeria.com,” she explained.

Against this backdrop, the organisers have begun to send out invitations to celebrities, entertainers, fashion enthusiasts and business people to grace the forthcoming event scheduled to hold on May 17 and 18, at the Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Organisers say the motive behind the proposed African Fashion Week Nigeria fund is to provide young talented Nigerian designers with startup funds to aid the growth of their businesses and assist them to become global brands.

The AFWN, which is being organised in collaboration with Abiola Okoya of Mibod Global Resources, is produced by Sola Oyebade of Mahogany Productions and Toyin Lawani of Tiannah’s styling academy.

A number of top personalities, including Senator Daisy Danjuma, Chief Molade Okoya, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chief Folorunsho Alakija and Hajia Abba Folawiyo, are expected to grace the occasion.

Kayswitch welcomes first child

I

T was, undoubtedly, a moment of great joy on Saturday for R n B singer, Kehinde Oyebanjo, a.k.a Kayswitch, when his Liberian girlfriend, Meenakshi Monica Subramani, was delivered of a baby boy.

The elated artiste, who is the younger brother of sensational singer, D’banj, shared a picture of the baby on his Instagram page with the caption:

•Kayswitch

‘My gift from God. Too excited!

More pictures coming soon.”

•Omotola

•Basketmouth

•2face

O

RGANISERS have announced readiness for the second edition of Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NEC), which made debut last year, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Stakeholders had hailed the initiative, which theydescribed as first-of-its-kind gathering of professionals and policy makers in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Apparently, organisers are fired by the prospect of the summit, that they have scheduled this year’s event for Wednesday, April 23, at the same venue.

“We’re back at Eko for the whole day on Wednesday April 23, with even bigger speakers, remarkable panelists and participants from across the country,” says

By Victor Akande

Conference Chairman, Ayeni Adekunle in a statement.

Adekunle, a PR Consultant and Publisher of NET newspaper, revealed that notable Nigerian actress, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, has agreed to join other distinguished speakers at the event. He described the thespian as creative, active and inspiring.

“Also speaking will be pop icon, 2face Idibia, a pathfinder and leader in contemporary Nigerian music; Co-Founder of Jobberman, Ope Awoyemi; Revered Showbiz consultant, Edi Lawani; and Founder/ CEO of Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Peace Anyiam-Osigwe.

“Others include Nigerian comedian, Basketmouth; Digital Marketing expert and GM of Bytesize, Bukola Akingbade; Chairman, Editorial Board of

NET and COO Q Networks, Chris Ihidero; award-winning journalist, Olumide Iyanda; broadcaster and entertainment executive, Olisa Adibua; and respected actress/producer, Uche Jombo.”

According to Adekunle, the theme of the conference: ‘Creating Pathways to the Future’, will be the focus of discussions at different sessions of the event, including Nollywood, social responsibility, information technology, music, media and business.

“Just like last year, our speakers and panelists are the best in their fields, with an incredible passion for the development of the industry,” says Ayeni, who added that NEC 2014 will also feature panel discussions and exhibition.

The papers, according to Adekunle are: Slaying The Collective Rights Monster (MUSIC); Whose Content is it

Anyway? (Media); Using IT for Intervention (IT); The Desired Future (Nollywood); Why We Should Care (Social Responsibility) and Solving The Distribution Problem Once and for All (Business).

Organisers say although attendance to all sessions and exhibitions is free, participants must register at www.nec.ng, from Wednesday March 19 to April 19.

He said comedian Tee A will return as Master of Ceremonies and moderator of the event.

NEC is produced by NET Newspapers LTD, with support from HIP TV, Beat FM, Classic FM, Naija FM, Top Radio, City FM, MTV Base, BHM, AV Edge, EDS, Emblue, F316, ID Africa, First Class Incorporated and The Sodium Group.

BUSINESS

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

At the moment, there is an average of about 18 hours per day of constant power supply to different parts of the country. This feat was brought about by the implementation of the integrated power sector reform programme anchored on the power roadmap.

- Minister of Information, Labaran Maku

Union Bank not recapitalising, says GMD

By Simeon Ebulu

U

• From left: Head, Operations and Technology, Lucky Jayaratne, Executive Director, Commercial and Retail Banking, North, Ibrahim Kwargana; and Enuwa, during the press briefing...yesterday.

PHOTO: SIMEON EBULU

Privatisation: Court restrains BPE from sale of power stations A

FEDERAL High Court in Abuja yesterday re strained the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) from further proceeding with privatising three major power stations.

They are Aloaji, Omoku and Gbarain power stations. The BPE had slated the bidding process for the stations’ sale on March 7, 2014.

Justice Abdulkadir Abdulkafarati’s order followed an application by lawyer to a firm, Ethiope Energy Limited, Alex Iziyon (SAN).

Iziyon, representing the plaintiff - Ethiope Energy urged the court to stop the BPE from going ahead with the bidding, pending the hearing and determination of the suit.

He argued that despite being put on notice about the pendency of the suit, the de-

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

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

fendants had proceeded with the bidding.

“Despite being put on notice, they went ahead to take initial step to overreach the motion on notice. They said that there was no court order stopping them from going on with the bidding process.

“They had ample time to brief a lawyer concerning the case, but they failed to do so because we served them on March 6, 2014, the last time the case came up. Till date, no process has been filed by

them in this case.

“The court can make an interim order stopping them from taking further step in the exercise because the case cannot be in court and the defendant will continue to take further steps that will destroy the res of this case,” Iziyon said.

Responding, BPE’s lawyer, A.M. Kayode, who said he held the brief of Professor Taiwo Osinpitan (SAN), prayed the court to order an accelerated hearing as against an order of injunction.

“I urge the court to order

an accelerated hearing in this case. I do not have instruction from my principal to give undertaken. We are not aware that any step has been taken so far in this matter,” Kayode said.

Ruling, Justice Kafarati upheld Iziyon’s argument and held: “It is apparent that the defendants have been served with the motion on notice and they fail to brief their counsel. An order of interim injunction is hereby granted against the 1st defendant from further going on with the bidding process of the

power stations.”

The case has been adjourned till March 25.

Ethiope Energy is, by the suit, challenging its alleged exclusion from the bidding by the BPE. In its statement of claim, Ethiope Energy accused the Chairman of the Due Diligence Committee, Atedo Peterside, of having “enormous influence on the BPE.” Ethiope also accused the BPE of allegedly manipulating the technical bid evaluation due diligence.

Sued with BPE are Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Dangote acquires 50,000 hectares for rice

D

ANGOTE Group has acquired 50,000 hec tares of land for rice production in Niger State with job prospects for more than 8000 farmers.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, AhmedMatane, broke the news yesterday at the West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme (WAAPP) Nigeria seed multiplication forum in Minna.

While the company intends to utilise 70 per cent of the land, the commissioner said the remaining 30 per cent will be given to rice farmers from the state to cultivate high yield improved rice seeds.

At least 7000 farmers will be

T

By Daniel Essiet

engaged as contract farmers to work on 15,000 hectares.

He said rice cultivation is one way the state government is working with the private sector to support the Federal Government Agricultural Transportation Agenda to ensure food security The state, he also said has earmarked 100,000 hectares to increase rice production for the next three years.

Under the programme, he said 50,000 farmers will be engaged.

Each of them will cultivate two hectares of land.

The expectation is that they added between 250,000 and

400,000 tonnes annually to the national rice volume.

The National Corodinator,WAAPP,Prof Damian Chikwendu said production of high yielding improved rice seeds are part of efforts by Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS to improve food security by supporting member countries’ agriculture efforts to ensure food availabilty.

He said WAAPP has been funding the National Cereals Research Institute(NCRI), Badeggi to produce rice breeder and foundation seeds.

Under the programme, rice farmers are to benefit from

• Dangote

15,992 kilogrammes of high yield improved rice seeds.

He said the programme has commissioned seven private seed companies to produce several quantities of certied maize,rice and sorghum seeds.

Reps to pass 2014 budget on resumption

HE House of Repre sentatives will resume plenary today after a three- week break to tackle the contentious 2014 budget which committees had concentrated on in the past weeks.

The House had gone on break to enable its standing committees meet with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in order to allow them defend their estimates for the 2014 budget, as well as give the committees time to tidy every aspect

From Victor Oluwasegun, Abuja

of the budget, Arguments for the expeditiously passage of the N4.6 trillion 2014 budget is therefore expected to feature prominently as part of today’s deliberation as committees have concluded their reports on the budget.

Apart from the 2014 budget, other issues the House would likely address today include the continuous deterioration of the security

situations particular the killings related to insurgency and how to stem the tide.

Expected to come through points of orders of urgent national importance by members are recent killings of a hundred people in Kaduna State, as well as the deaths of young job seekers at the Nigerian Immigration Service on Saturday.

Tambuwal last Tuesday adjourned sitting till today as a special session in honour of students of the Federal Government College, Buni Yadi,

Yobe State, who were killed by suspected terrorists.

Speaking last week during his welcome address, Tambuwal had asked that all Nigerians unite against terrorism.

The Nation learnt that further down the week, other legislative activities of the House would include an investigation into if the funds to the security agencies fighting insurgency in the Northern part of the country is being properly disbursed or not.

NION Bank of Ni geria (UBN) is not contemplating raising additional capital from the Nigerian Stock market, the Group Managing Director, Emeka Enuwa, has said.

Emeka, who spoke yesterday in Lagos at an interactive media session, said the bank has about N170billion in its kitty, and has “absolutely no need to raise new capital, adding that the suggestion in some quarters that the bank would approach the capital market, or elsewhere to raise additional funds, was news to him.

“This is the first time I’m hearing that Union Bank wants to recapitalise,” he stated.

Enuwa explained that the focus of the bank at the moment it to focus on its core business area, adding that the step would necessitate sel l i ng - of f non- ba nk i ng units in compliance with Central Bank of Nigeria’s regulation.

He said: “The divestment will see the sale of about nine units of the bank before the end of 2014.” He said the Board considered all options before it opted out of being a Holding company, adding that the decision to sell the noncore banking subsidiaries was in the best interest of the organisation.

The affected subsidiaries include insurance, property, share registry and trustee businesses. “The restructuring will enable us focus on core banking and do more in our area of competitive advantage, which is commercial banking,” Emuwa said. Union Bank “has sufficient capital to fund its restructuring and expansion and will not be seeking further capital in the near to medium term,” he said.

Enuwa said the bank has embarked upon a Transformation Programme, designed to re-establish the bank as one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, stating thatThe implementation of this transformation agenda began with a focus on a number of critical priority areas, including operations, information technology, risk management and human resources.

In line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Regulation 3 on the scope of banking and ancillary matters, and the bank’s plan to focus its resources on core banking functions, Union Bank, in late 2013, commenced the process of divesting its interests in all its subsidiaries and associated companies, with the exception of Union Bank (IK) Limited.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

12

BUSINESS NEWS

Gas shortage, pipeline vandalism cripple power generation

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HE Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, yesterday in Abuja, said the drop in power generation was caused by gas shortage due to vandalism of gas pipelines.

Nebo, who spoke during a power public forum, he said: “We still face many challenges, gas supply is a very serious one and the current difficulty we have in generation dropping substantially in the past couple of days, was as a result of gas limitation.

“We also have security issues bordering on vandalism

of the sector’s gas pipelines and oil pipelines that are associated with gas and then transmission and distribution infrastructure.”

Nebo stressed the need to develop the sector’s transmission capacity “and expand the wheeling strength, so that all power generated can be effectively transmitted.”

The Minister also said there are challenges in transmission “because we need to be sure that we have more wheeling capacity than generation, so we need to beef up our generation capacity

and transmission capacity.”

He urged participants at the conference to fashion out a blue print on how to effectively fund and address the infrastructure deficit in the sector, especially the transmission chain.

“With regard to transmission, I will plead with people who are knowledgeable in the power sector, investors and technical people to really look into what Nigeria needs now.

“I will like you to also look at issues around market solvency, funding model for transmission, and so on,” he

Arco Marine procures N3b boats for oil firms

A

RCO Marine and Oil field Services Limited, a subsidiary of the Arco Group has procured two boats specifically built to service oil firms operating in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry.

MV Arco FCB4 and MV Arco FCB5 procured at N3 billion were commissioned for use at the Naval Dock Yard on Victoria Island in Lagos by stakeholders in the industry and officials of the company.

Chairman of Arco Group, Chief Joseph Akpieyi, in his address said the boats were built for Arco Marine at a cost of N3 billion. He explained that Local Content Act enacted in 2010 had made it possible for Arco Marine to establish a strong foothold in marine transportation and logistics in the last few years.

Akpieyi called on the Fed-

By Ovwe Medeme

eral Government, especially the regulators that enforce the Local Content Act to maintain zero tolerance against companies that had refused to abide by the tenets of the law.

On the importance of the boats to the industry, the Managing Director of Arco Marine and Oilfield Services Limited, Mr. Yomi Jemibewon, said that the Arco FCBs are series of state of the art boats that have been designed to offer safe and secure coupling to the offshore platform installations of International Oil Companies (IOCs) active in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea, high speed and safe maneuverability between offshore platforms and the utmost in crew and passenger safety and comfort dur-

ing transfer and transit.

He said: “I am pleased to announce that after a little over 23 months of commencing operations with the Arco FCBs, under the most stringent of safety and quality requirements from both industry and client, the Arco fleet of FCB’s, has recorded an outstanding safety record with zero incidents and close to 100 per cent availability.

All these were achieved with 100 per cent Nigerian financing, crew, engineers and management.”

The representative of the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Luke Anele said that the corporation partners with Arco in ensuring that Arco attained its current status.

Anele said that although the journey had not been easy, the company is a success.

said.

Nebo, however, expressed optimism that most of the challenges being expressed at the moment would soon be addressed with the cooperation and support of stakeholders in the sector.

He said the power sector reform is on course and assured that it would ultimately lead to the economic growth and industrialisation of the country.

The minister also assured that the Federal Government was working round the clock to create the enabling envi-

ronment for investors to thrive and urged more investors to key into the sector.

Earlier, Mr Stephen Bourne, the Chairman of the forum, said the conference was designed to deliberate extensively on the way forward for Nigeria’s power sector.

Bourne said the country’s power sector had the potential of serving as catalyst for economic growth and creating jobs for the youth.

The conference was attended by officials from the Ministry of Power, Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Com-

• Nebo

mission (NERC), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Plc, NNPC, as well as development partners.

Ogun to partner Chinese investors on devt.

T

HE Ogun State Gover nor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has said his government will continue to welcome investors to enhance socio-economic development, urging the China/Africa Investment Club to present a blueprint for possible collaboration with the state.

Amosun stated this while receiving a delegation of the Club, made up of conglomer-

ate of business concerns in China, in his office yesterday in Abeokuta.

He said Ogun State is fast becoming the investors’ haven with the advantage of suitable land, nearness to Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital and the gateway to the West/ African sub-regional market among others.

The governor said: ‘’In Ogun State, we have the larg-

est concentration of industries in the whole of Nigeria and we also have different industrial zones. Since we assumed office, we have been investing heavily in agriculture, particularly in the production of cocoa, cassava, cotton and rice. We have also invested in real estate and this government is creating all the necessary enabling environment for business to thrive.’’

Zenith Bank tasks youth on financial literacy

S

PURRED by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) drive for financial inclusion in the country, Zenith Bank Plc has launched a campaign targeted at inculcating a savings culture and general financial literacy among secondary schools students in the country.

The bank, last week, organized a one-day training programme for students of Girls’

Secondary School, Abayi, Aba, Abia State, where over 300 students of the school were groomed on the need to develop the healthy habit of managing money and using the banks for their daily financial dealings.

Delivering a lecture titled Financial Literacy 101/ Financial Management, the General Manager in charge of Owerri Zone, Austin Njoko

who represented the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Godwin Emefiele stated that the programme had become imperative judging from the fact that over 43.6 per cent of adult Nigerians do not transact business in banks; a figure he said, would become worse if youths were added to the already frightening figure.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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16 PUBLIC NOTICE

AKUJUOBI

I formerly known and address as Miss Akujuobi Chinwendu Princess Now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Abarikwu Chinwendu Princess. All former documents remains valid, general public should please take note.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014 PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE ONYIA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Onyia Emilia Ifeoma, now wish to be known and addressed Mrs Chikwado Emilia Ifeoma. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

BANKOLE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Bankole Fola Deborah, now wish to be known and addressed Mrs Lawrence Adefolakemi Deborah.

All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

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

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y experience of sex has been frankly disappointing. I don’t enjoy sex and I don’t have an orgasm. The only time I have an orgasm is when I masturbate with my fingers or with that Jelly Chocolate Vibrator that I bought from you years ago – Jemima Jemima what a lot of people don’t know is that great sex doesn’t just happen. It has to be learned if we are willing to learn. So start by telling your husband that you are not satisfied so he can learn to do it better. Men want to learn and want to be told what to do because they delight in pleasuring their women. You yourself can also learn more about sexual pleasuring from educational movies like Sex Around the House, The Ultimate Sex Party and the Guide to Multiple Orgasms. And then you can tell your husband what he should do to pleasure you - Uche What drugs do I need for maximum sperm count (quality and quantity)? Also what do I need for penis enlargement that will be permanent? Please I need the best of available drugs for this. Are they herbal by nature? – Solomon All the supplements we recommend to people are herbal because they are safer and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. Secondly, to boost sperm quality, increase semen quantity and enlarge the penis, you will need three different supplements. My advice is to take two supplements and a sex toy for enlargement.

Sometimes, drugs don’t interact very well when you are taking different types for different things. So for increase in sperm quality, look for Fertil Aid or Repro Aid Supplement. For increase in semen quantity, get Max Load or Explosion Supplement. And for your penis enlargement, get the Bull Fighter Penis Enlargement Pump – Uche I have a small penisand I cannot undress in front of my girlfriend. I hear that penis enlargement takes time but I need something that works fast- Bidemi One trick that men with small penises can use to look bigger involves the use of a penis sleeve during intercourse.

It is like a condom but it is thicker, longer and reusable. It makes the penis look thicker, two inches longer and fuller in the vagina. Ask for the Cyberskin Transformer or the Nasstoys Penis Extender. You can also use an instant penis enlargement cream to look bigger during intercourse. For that, you need the Extreme Dick Plumper cream or the Liquid Sex Dick Plumper Cream– Uche I used the LS Male Desensitizing Cream for premature ejaculation. I like it. I didn’t expect it to work but it worked fine and it took me time before ejaculating. I want to order more –Maxwel Are there risks involved in the use of a vibrator for a woman and which vibrators do you recommend? Ify A vibrator is a plastic stimulator and when used with a lubricant, there are no risks involved. Are you allergic to rubber or plastic? If you are not then you have nothing to worry about. If you are looking for a really good vibrator to use, go for the Remote Control rabbit Pearl or the Jelly Chocolate Wall banger – Uche You said that Exploding Thunder may not be effective for me after I complained that I have tried many drugs for my poor erection and nothing worked but guess what? For the first time in five years, I had good sex with my wife at the age of 71 - Nnorom That is good. My worry was that you may need something stronger like Rhino 5 or Red Lips Premium but I am happy Exploding Thunder worked for you – Uche I bought Exploding Thunder from you and I like it so much.

My wife was so impressed that she wanted one capsule.

Can I give her? Fidelis No she cannot. It is for men only. Get her the Pink Elevate Female Libido Booster – Uche That’s it for today. Adults in need of these treatments/ novelties can call 08191978308 or 08027901621for help or visit www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers all over Nigeria.

For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com.Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

FROM OTHER LANDS

Presidential Fleet

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• 10 jets, yet, the president wants more !

HE state of the nation cannot be better underscored than by reports that the N9bn Nigerian Air Force 001 (5N-FGT) presidential jet failed to deliver value for money when President Goodluck Jonathan was about boarding it. Not only that, the fact that three jets from the Presidential Fleet were used for the trip which was strictly a party affair also signposts the wastefulness in the government.

The president was about leaving the North-Central Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) rally that held at the Trade Fair Centre, Minna, Niger State, when the incident happened. He was reportedly about leaving Minna for another visit to Sokoto State when the plane suddenly developed fault. On board at the time, with the President waiting to be air borne were Adamu Muazu, National Chairman of the PDP, Tony Anenih, chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, Ahmadu Ali, former chairman of the party and Attahiru Bafarawa, former Sokoto State governor, among others. The team was later forced to disembark from the plane while the battle to diagnose and fix the problem went on.

The plane that conveyed Vice President Namadi Sambo to the rally - a 5NFGW smaller presidential jet was eventually used by the president while Sambo joined Senate President David Mark in another smaller presidential jet -5NFGV- which conveyed the Senate President to the state. What this means is that a trivial ruling party’s rally witnessed

deployment of three presidential jets that are serviced with tax payers’ money.

Such acquisitions smack of contempt at a period when about 120 million Nigerians live below poverty level.

According to reports, the Presidential Fleet boasts 10 jets at the moment; yet, the presidency intends to acquire more.

We wonder what is driving leaders in the nation away from the roads that commoners ply every day. May be this is because they have failed in their obligations to repair most highways/roads which terrorists and kidnappers have hijacked due to insecurity in the land. It is pathetic that many Nigerians die daily on these roads being heartlessly avoided by their leaders.

We are worried by the cost of maintaining the Presidential Fleet which the Airspace Management Agency, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, estimated at N9.08bn annually. The fleet include two Falcon 7X jets, two Falcon 900 jets, Gulf stream 550, one Boeing 737 BBJ (Nigerian Air Force 001 or Eagle One), and Gulf stream IVSP. Others are one Gulf stream V, Cessna Citation 2 aircraft and Hawker Siddley 125-800 jet. Despite the huge spending on the fleet - at grossly insensitive public expense - it is sad that one of them carrying the president still developed fault while on duty.

We are disturbed that the Presidential Fleet is competing with commercial airline operators given the number of aircraft in the fleet. Indeed, we wonder

whether there is any compelling necessity for the fleet to be the third largest in the country. Assuming our commercial airlines are efficient, top government functionaries, including even the president can at best charter jets for important trips. After all, Queen Elizabeth of England and Prime Minister David Cameron often go on British Airways’ chartered flights for long trips.

The unnecessary proclivity of the presidency for expansive Presidential Fleet that is obviously ill-maintained (judging from what happened in Minna), despite the whopping budget set aside for its maintenance, does not project the country as a serious one to the outside world.

‘We are disturbed that the Presidential Fleet is competing with commercial airline operators given the number of aircraft in the fleet ... Assuming our commercial airlines are efficient, top government functionaries, including even the president can at best charter jets for important trips. After all, Queen Elizabeth of England and Prime Minister David Cameron often go on British Airways’ chartered flights for long trips’

Slash in police budget •I-G’s complaint should be looked at on its merit so we don’t underfund the force to our detriment

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HILE defending the budget of the police before the House of Representatives Committee on Police Affairs, the Inspector–General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, forewarned of a possible major crisis in the force unless the Federal Government reversed its decision to cut the personnel budget for it in the 2014 budget. The chairman of the committee, Usman Kurmo, confirmed the cut in the police personnel cost to be about N13bn. Kurmo rightly noted that the cut was surprising as there was no large-scale retrenchment or retirement in the police in the last one year to justify it.

Now, certain things are not clear in this matter. The IG said the overhead cost of

‘If giving the police more money is what would improve their efficiency, especially at a time the force is overstretched by insecurity, so be it. We no longer want to see a continuation of the system whereby our police officers and men would be at the mercy of good Samaritans. If we want an effective police force, we must be ready to fund it’

the force was N10.8bn in 2009, N15.5bn in 2010, N 5.5bn in 2011, N8.1bn in 2012, N 7.6bn in 2013 and N6bn in 2014. Now, if the salary cut is actuallyN13bn in 2014, which the IG is complaining about, perhaps, the cut should be seen from the point of view of the total budget approved for the police last year. Also, while it is noted that there was no large-scale retrenchment and retirement from last year’s personnel, no evidence was presented for a large-scale recruitment of staff in 2014. Is it not reasonable for the IG to tell the committee the number of police stations in each state of the country, among others, to support his alarm for shortfall in personnel cost?

All said however, the police must be properly funded, irrespective of their shortcomings. We understand the IG’s fear about salaries and allowances that might be affected if the shortfall is not redressed, that is if it is indeed a genuine oversight. If his men are not paid their entitlements promptly, this will affect their morale and it does not augur well for discipline and efficiency. Should this be the case, it is Nigerians that will suffer.

We have not forgotten that some issues cropped up about the police force last year which stunned not only Nigerians but also outsiders. This was the story of how 50 police trainees shared one fish head at police colleges. We were also told of the paltry sums that accrued to each of the police divisions in the country that could not have made them deliver as they

had to rely on goodwill to get basic things like papers on which people write their statements at the police stations.

In many instances, there is no provision for fuel for patrol vehicles, and so on.

Much as we are happy that Kurmo has already discussed the matter with the Director-General of Budget of the Federation, Dr. Bright Okogu, who assured him that the issue would be sorted out, we do not understand why the new integrated salary payment system across all agencies would lead to the shortfall in police budget, among others’, as stated by Okogu. On what basis did the budget office base its assumption that “what is provided for the police will be enough for the personnel cost?” Meanwhile, the IG has complained that the entire N6bn voted for personnel cost could not cover the cost of fuelling the 10,232 police vehicles scattered all over the country alone.

We hope the matter would be resolved in a way that Nigerians would have value for every kobo they invest in the police force. What we should be concerned about is that the appropriation is well defended. If giving the police more money is what would improve their efficiency, especially at a time the force is overstretched by insecurity, so be it. We no longer want to see a continuation of the system whereby our police officers and men would be at the mercy of good Samaritans. If we want an effective police force, we must be ready to fund it.

South Africa needs a better opposition – A weak ANC threatens to strengthen the radical populists OR Julius Malema, the firebrand in South Africa’s forthcoming elections, the only thing that has changed in 20 years since the end of apartheid is that “the government of white people had been replaced with a government of black people”.

It is a line from the former youth leader of the African National Congress turned Economic Freedom Fighter that echoes V.S Naipaul when he wrote of “black men, assuming the lies of white men” in A Bend in the River. Naipaul’s fictional account of postindependence Africa was also written two decades on when the euphoria of liberation from white, colonial rule was giving way to cynicism and anger.

Mr Malema is a divisive populist who, for all his revolutionary talk, is tainted by allegations of the same corruption that he rails against. There is no room in his radical, hard left approach to South Africa’s malaise for recognition of the strides the country has taken. Nor is there, for how much worse things might have been. His searing critique of the ruling ANC resonates nonetheless with members of South Africa’s black majority, frustrated at the pace of economic and social change.

The challenge Mr Malema poses at just 33 years old, is not at the electoral ballot box: by his own admission his party lacks resources. In the view of pollsters the recently formed EFF will pick up no more than 8 per cent of votes this time round. What he represents instead is a generational challenge. He is a clear warning sign of the looming battle for the hearts of younger South Africans for whom opportunity – or the lack of it – is the priority.

The emergence of Mr Malema is made the more poignant by the retirement at the May 7 polls of some of the ANC heavyweights of the post-Apartheid era. One of them is Trevor Manuel, a communist by origin, but who as finance minister forged a liberal economic policy that balanced the need for radical redistribution of wealth with the demands of economic growth. Also leaving is Kgalema Motlanthe, the deputy president, whose integrity and commitment to the ANC’s founding principles stood the test of years.

Some of Mr Malema’s criticisms are justified. To a great extent the ANC has failed thus far to address the deep-seated injustices left by minority rule. The commanding heights of the economy remain dominated by the white elite. The policy of black empowerment has been cosmetic, gifting riches to a small, politically well-connected group. South Africa is today a more unequal society in terms of income distribution than it was under apartheid.

Mr Malema’s prescriptions are more alarming. Like the “big man” in Naipaul’s novel, he advocates nationalising mines and seizing land from whites. You do not have to look to fiction to know this leads not in the direction of prosperity and social development, but towards racial rancour and Zimbabwe-like chaos.

For all its faults, these are things that the ANC has carefully avoided.

But the centre ground in South Africa is held by a party whose governing dominance has led to complacency. Thus, for all the criticism of his rule, President Jacob Zuma can speak assuredly of victory on May 7.

Juju, as he is known, may in this context seem a convenient opponent for the ANC – one whose undertones of menace might lead many voters towards the safer, well-known choice. Even so, there are dangers ahead. The ANC’s dominance is also a recipe for indecision, with its constant management of the many, conflicting constituencies within the coalition. In the absence of a more constructive political competition at the centre – one that helps to deliver more effective government – the allure of radical populists can only strengthen in the years to come.

F

– Financial Times

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: I hereby, appeal to all Nigerians to come and reason together. Let us reflect deeply on the various ethnic, religious or political crises that we have passed through as a nation from 1960 till date. The main actors have always been behind the scenes. The major foot soldiers and victims of these senseless crises have always been the poor Nigerian youth.

I continue to be amazed that our reactions to the several challenges and issues we face as a country are consistently based on primordial sentiments of ethnicity and religious affiliations. Take the recent cases of Bugaje versus the Niger Delta; Sanusi versus Jonathan; Amaechi versus Jonathan and Oduahgate amidst many others.

When are we going to stop being used by the political elites for their selfish purposes?

We have had 14 Presidents/Heads of State – nine from the North, two from the South-East, two from the South-West and one from the South-

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Come, let us reason together South. Why are we so deeply and foolishly concerned about the particular ethnic origin of who becomes the President in 2015 instead of being more reflectively concerned about the candidate with the best visionary ideology on how to move the country forward?

Why is the level of poverty so high in the North today despite the fact that nine of our Presidents/ Heads of State are of northern origin? We are all agreed that one of the factors that fueled the Boko Haram crises is abject poverty in the North-east. Lest we forget, BH is also a creation of the political class!

Why is there sustained poverty and infrastructural deficiencies in the South-south in the more than four years of a President from the region? Has the life of the average poor Niger Deltan fared better than before 2010 when compared to Nigerians from other regions?

Lest we forget, the longest serving President (11 years) is from the South-west. The Nigerian economy is road-driven. Why were the Ilorin - Lagos (the main West-North route), Sagamu - Benin - Ore (the main West - East - South-South route) roads not completed under his presidency?

How exactly have we, the Nige-

rian masses, fared better as Christians or Muslims under a Christian or Muslim President? Why can't we deliver ourselves from our self-imposed socio-political delusions?

When the elites meet and complain of their region being marginalized, they do not speak for us the masses being marginalized, but for the political elites who have lost out in the political control of our resources!

Come to think of it: Which of the regions in Nigeria is not afflicted with poverty and infrastructural deficiencies? Which of the regions is free of poor roads, poorly equipped schools and institutions,

lings, body-guards, with gifts not worth the sumptuous meals prepared for their dogs or pets, on a daily basis! Happily, we accept this vomit from our self-righteous masters, who if we summon-up the courage to confront, are not better than us, nor do they entertain nobler or worthier thoughts, or are they more gifted than us.

They do not possess the unflinching believe in sacrifice, hard work, morality, values, that embody sane, refined humanity, which we represent. Yet, we entreat them to become our Father Christmas of freedom!

Now, who has ever heard about any part of the universe, where freedom is presented on a platter of gold, with an e-mail, bearing liberation as an address?

If freedom has a Father Christmas, then, it must be Nigerian rulers, who are known for their talent in fooling their subjects ( I mean the people), with all sorts of con-

artistry, gimmicks, coupled with spoiling them with crumbs from their tables, and dulling their minds with fear and intimidation.

And this type of freedom that forecloses positive thinking, and produces little minds that lynch great minds, and small men that kill giants, play devastating roles against the receivers of occasional presents, from the small men and little minds that govern them. But if the great minds and giants would someday recognise the fact that they have destroyed themselves, future, and posterity, by genuflecting on the altar of intellectual and moral midgets, at the helm of affairs in their country, and conclusively, seek among themselves for the liberators in their generation, and obstinately and massively queue behind them, freedom will be fought for, and won from small men and little minds, who have been their oppressors for ages.

The example of South Africa is a

living testament, of how the people identified, recognised their liberators, encapsulated in Nelson Mandela, and determinedly and massively queued behind them; today, they are respected globally, as mankind continues to eulogise the Madiba. There were Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, Aminu Kano, here yesterday, who were true Nigerian liberators, in every stretch of the imagination. But little minds and giant killers did not let them carry out total reformation, transformation, reinvention, reorientation of Nigeria! Yet, the Nigerian people whose plight have continued to nose-dive, fortunes mired in the greed and power-chasing madness of today’s Nigeria’s godfathers, god-sons and goddaughters, have refused to take their destinies in their hands!

Freedom has no Father Christmas

IR: When those who have access to the public till, continue to squander the treasury without let, at the expense of the jointowners, nobody needs tell the coowners that the wealth that is being dissipated, should be questioned, as a “right”. But would such question arise, if the so-called disadvantaged or marginalised citizens sit-on-the-fence, and expect the miracle-of- freedom from the godfathers of dictatorship? Would the godfathers of tyranny ever agree to give freedom as a present to their subjects, whom they demand perpetual serfdom, servitude, and idiotic loyalty from?

Knowing that the only way to continue to lord it over their subjects, is to continue to put them in the cage of submissiveness, dishing out occasional appeasement, through renting them as thugs, arsonists, terrorists, insurgents, assassins, bouncers, clowns, and hire-

•Chinedu Ohaegbulam, Port Harcourt.

insufficient water supply or irregular power supply? Our problems are the same. Let us all work best to begin solving our problems by voting for the best President come 2015.

The year 2015 is a defining moment for our nation. Let us reflect creatively on how to deliver Nigeria from the clutches of sociopolitical retrogression, poverty, infrastructural deficiencies and systemic corruption. Let us all agree to vote for a visionary leadership irrespective of whether the candidate is from the North, West, East or South-South. Let us all shed the toga of primordial attachments to ethnicity or religion, and embrace the collective destiny of a more prosperous Nigeria.

• Akinlolu, Abdulazeez Adelaja, University of Ilorin, Kwara State.

Immigration’s ill-fated recruitment

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IR: Why on earth would the Interior Minister, Abba Moro, and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) blame the victims of their ill-fated scam called recruitment? For God’s sake, having collected N1000 from each applicant, the NIS could have outsourced the Assessment Test to JAMB/WAEC that have built the capacity in conducting such large examinations over the years with zero level casualty rate. As such, the authorities should not blame the victims but take full responsibility for all that has happened. The sheer number of applicants is a sad commentary on the state of affairs in the country.

At least, the hard pictures of ocean of applicants particularly at the National Stadium, Abuja has put a big question mark on the purported 1.2 million jobs touted by the Jonathan Administration to have been created in 2013.

•Tunde Salman, Kuje, Abuja

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

COMMENTS

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out on the oil revenue front.

R. Usman Bugaje’s curious Besides, the mindless viotheory, that the North on the lence that has seized the rebasis of its land mass, “owns” gion, like some Armageddon, the oil in the Niger Delta, is manifestly could be explained away to illogical. Besides, it is brazenly proreligious or ethnic tension. vocative and unconscionable. Worst of But really, it is an economic all, it is vacuously supremacist. pull, a logical tragedy for an All these are bad enough in themeconomically parched people, selves. But issuing from a citizen of a falling upon themselves in country that has groped for 100 years in Olakunle sheer economic madness. search of a national community, it is lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola Yet, even with its challenges, culpable lack of patriotism, which borthe North boasts the brains to ders on combative recklessness. turn around its parlous human Still, the greater shock is not that Dr. development index, if ruinous Bugaje made that statement, for such mindsets, like Bugaje’s, would northern supremacist mindset has been not keep popping up. around for long. It is rather that it met Such mindsets dream of easy money from oil — knowing with a thunderous applause, which meant it touched a rap- fantastic latest theory.

Even, among the “new North” — smart technocrats, bufull well that region is insulated from the environment-blightturous chord among the rabidly converted. ing oil bearing Niger Delta communities face — and not Might power supremacy still dwell in the northern elite’s reaucrats and sundry professionals who can hold their own particularly caring about fair compensation in derivation, heart, after the untold catastrophe such a mindset has brought anywhere in the world — there appears this central thinking, to which oil is pivotal. for that acute environmental pain. on the northern people — and Nigerians in general?

For all his brilliance, efficiency and modernity, Nasir elBut perhaps the chicken would soon come home to roost, if Still, that idea is not new. oil is eventually struck in the Lake Chad basin. It is then the At the height of the northern power hubris, Alhaji Maitama Rufai comes across from his book, The Accidental Public Servregion would realise derivation is not just excess payout, but Sule, the Kano-born senior citizen and brilliant orator, pro- ant, as not necessarily bothered by a restructured polity, so money earned from local economic value; and for acute pains pounded the theory that different segments of Nigeria had long as Nigeria’s resources are well harnessed.

That is by no means a bad thing.

But as long as Nigeria from environmental destruction. their divine missions. The North’s especial talent, he rearemains a resource omnibus, with oil as its core and with So, as Nigeria urgently needs a restructuring of its polity, soned, was to rule. the North — at least that segment of it that could applaud Dr. So, shouldn’t the country, he seemed to suggest, do a grand nary attempt at every section of the country developing its Bugaje’s sophistry — needs a radical restructuring of the mind. division of labour, where the North would concentrate on its own resource niche, there would be unholy fixation with oil.

Its socio-economic salvation would come not from oil dole core talent of ruling, while the other parts of the country That would continue to spur the sort of statement Bugaje just made. from the Niger Delta or even from Lake Chad basin, but concentrated on trade and commerce, diplomacy and the civil Another northern star, Nuhu Ribadu, the former anti-sleaze from wealth driven by its own people the hard way. service, to the glory of motherland? fiery angel, can also hold his own anywhere. Still, it is doubtThat is how the North, like other parts of the country, can Kano Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, also shows some develop its economic niche, and therefore positively comschizophrenic policy streak, when the stake is northern na- ful if has given much thought to a truly federalist Nigeria, pete in a Nigerian commonwealth, where economically prostionalism. On one hand, he authors policies with the pro- where every segment of the union would proudly fend for perous regions deliver mass development and prosperity gressive temper of radically developing Kano’s human re- itself.

Yet, these are the brains sorely needed for the fresh thinkfor Nigerian citizens. source, to enhance the state’s competitiveness in the Nigeing to wean the North from its sickly crush on oil, and the But the Bugaje theory could not have come at a better time; rian social-economic community. That is very laudable. and the National Conference that kicked off yesterday must But, when the issue is oil, its ownership and derivation, he resultant ultra-dependency syndrome.

That of course brings the matter right back to Dr. Bugaje’s take especial notice. reclines into the conservative laager, with the same impaEven if the Jonathan powers-that-be are bent on playing tient radicalism, with which he is sworn to developing his claim — that the North occupies 72 per cent of Nigeria’s landmass; so it anchors the Niger Delta, and ensures its claim to games as being alleged by many, the delegates cannot afford Kano people. such dangerous games.

Is it then not something of a split personality: a governor the oil in adjoining sea!

So, to that extent, the North can lay some claim to the oil, Nigeria will not survive on a supremacist mindset that sworn to remaking his people to use their mind — and create even it is far away!

If there was an extra-ordinary piece of makes empty claims, based on vacuous logic and culpable their own wealth — is the same that appears fixated with oil, soulless sophistry, this was it! sophistry; and powered by a reckless penchant to be insensihundreds of kilometres away in the Niger Delta?

Still, some analysis of Dr. Bugaje’s claim. If indeed the tive, unfair and unjust.

It is a similar oil-fixated mindset that drove Dr. Bugaje’s North has 72 per cent of Nigeria’s land mass, that would be The Bugajes, the el-Rufais, the Ribadus and the Kwankwasos some form of asset, wouldn’t it? Put another way, that could are bright minds that owe their region the bounden duty to ‘As Nigeria urgently needs a restrucmean 72 per cent of Nigeria’s land asset? radically alter its thinking; and turn the North into an ecoturing of its polity, the North — at least But pray, in contrast, what percentage of Nigeria’s liability nomic dynamo that can compete with the best the rest of does the North log, even with its rich land asset? No sarcasm that segment of it that could applaud Dr. Nigeria can offer. intended here, but that could be gleaned from the perennial That is the only way to the Nigerian dream. Any other way Bugaje’s sophistry — needs a radical resouthward drift of its cheap labour, the virtual collapse of its is an expressway to perdition; the sort that, for 100 years community with the advent of the Boko Haram crisis and its structuring of the mind’ now, has left a political amalgam in a virtual cul-de-sac, on empty swagger, which thinly veils its mortal fear of losing its unending journey to nationhood.

epublican ipples

Bugaje’s curious theory

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FIRST got the hint of weekend’s ill-fated immigration test when a cousin of mine called from Lokoja, the Kogi State capital to inquire if I had any information on the impending recruitment test. After telling him that I had no such information, he would call moments later not only to confirm that the test was indeed taking place but also to notify me of his receipt of the test eligibility slip. You guessed right; that was his way of duly serving the notice on the need to start tapping on my contacts in earnest – the only way round the impossible statistical odd of less than a chance in a hundred!

You can bet that by Saturday when the news of the multiple harvests of deaths and broken limbs across the test centres hit the wires, the impossible statistics was far from my mind. Rather, the only thing on my mind was whether the young man made it out of the crowded venue in one piece. The extent of the national tragedy would hit home much later when the body count hit a score. The soulless, inhuman, and utterly incompetent Nigerian Immigration Service bureaucratic machine had delivered!

Clearly, the story of unimaginable orgy of brutalisation and dehumanisation of the battalions of youths desperately in need of a job has only begun to unfold. Merely from the bits and parts – from Benin to Lagos, Minna to Kano, Port Harcourt to Makurdi, Enugu to Gombe – the revelation is about of a group of antediluvian officials being saddled with an assignment beyond their ken, individuals so terribly out of depth with elementary dictates of modern governance that leaves hanging the question of their qualifications for their high offices.

If anyone ever doubted the extent to which the NIS’ has perfected its strange methodology of substitution by elimination, one only needs to recall that the service also despatched 17 promising Nigerians to the great beyond in similar circumstances in 2008. That year, the route was via strenuous physical exercise – without the due care to inquire into the applicants’ state of the fitness.

This time around, the service simply herded thousands into closets designed to ensure that only the fittest make it alive. The result across the board was predictable: One score dead; more than three scores seriously injured.

In Minna, Niger State, for instance, 11,000 were reported to have showed up at the Women Day Secondary School venue of the exercise. The crowd of applicants were said to have lined up stretching up to some two kilometres from the test venue leaving security agents to what they do best in the circumstance: brutalise the hapless applicants. At the end of the stampede which they helped to create, three lay dead. Next door Abuja was no better: the

Policy Sanya Oni sanyaoni@yahoo.co.uk 08051101841

Whence cometh the angry generation? stampede inside the 60, 000 capacity stadium where the exercise took place ensured the loss of seven precious lives.

Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital would share the same fate. An estimated 35,000 applicants had descended on the stadium as early 7 a.m. To quell the crowd that had become restive in the scorching heat, tear gas were freely used and in the ensuing stampede, five lay dead – among whom was a pregnant woman.

Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital was a tad better; there security officials freely deployed horsewhips keep the thousands of youths gathered at the Mudashiru Lawal Stadium, Asero, Abeokuta, venue of the exercise in line.

Never mind that the exercise slated for 9 a.m did not commence till around 3:30 p.m, by which time a large number of the applicants, frustrated, had already left for home.

Let us look at the statistics behind the doomed venture to appreciate why the dunderheads in the NIS should be herded to the gulag. At the conservative figure of 520,000 said to have applied for vacant slots said to be anything between 3,500 to 5,000, they ought to have appreciated why an exercise which guaranteed a less than one percent success outcome would create the kind of ugly scenario such as we saw. As it now turns out, our grave mistake was to assume that the fat, analogue heads at the NIS – although clever enough to appreciate the need to extort N1,000 from each of the applicants – ought to know a thing or two about basic management, or the notion of problem-solving – the ability to anticipate problems before they occur?

Perhaps, having gotten away with murder the last time,

the hierarchs of the NIS have come to believe that they could do it as often as it pleased them without being called to account. That was why a so-called minister of the republic – Abba Moro or what’s his name would dare to pronounce a verdict of guilt on the victims for – wait for it – impatience!

I do not believe that the citizens have fully grasped the import of the criminal negligence that the NIS and its principal, the federal government, perpetrated at the weekend. Imagine a different scenario – involving say an Asian company, in which the dead was numbered in 10s. Imagine further, the company chief executive showing up on prime time television to put the blame on the victims even when the facts are only still trickling in.

And – imagine the federal government, carrying on as if nothing happened.

No doubt, the tragic events of the weekend say a lot about who we are. Taken together with other developments in the polity, it says a lot about our regression into the jungle where life is not just brutish but short.

Let me say that the outpouring of outrage is understandable. Perhaps, it is the kind of therapy citizens need to assuage their collective guilt in the face of their failure to galvanise collective action to demand the kind of change that they want. Good as outrage is, the point is that they are never nearly sufficient. I have seen too many Nigerian youths put up with just about anything in the misguided believe that they would chance upon some future fortune.

I have seen innumerable others take solace in false dogma which demand unreason while outsourcing personal responsibility .

I don’t think Nigerian youths, mighty as the army has become, are nearly as angry as they should be.

‘Good as outrage is, the point is that they are never nearly sufficient. I have seen too many Nigerian youths put up with just about anything in the misguided believe that they would chance upon some future fortune. I have seen innumerable others take solace in false dogma which demand unreason while outsourcing personal responsibility’

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

22

COMMENTS

T

HE death of no fewer than 19 job seekers at the last nationwide job recruitment exercise of the Nigeria Immigration Service was a sad reminder of how bad things have gone in this country.

If over 700,000 applied for just 4,560 vacancies then it goes without saying that the unemployment situation in the country is far worse than we thought. And the unemployed are not just the ones without formal or informal jobs they include some in paid employment whose take home cannot take them home so to speak.

The situation is further compounded by employment/job placement agencies that have contracts to recruit or supply workers for some blue chip companies. The job seekers get the job no doubt, but they are forced to share their salary with the agency that recruited them.

I didn’t know about this until a nephew got a job with one of the third generation banks.

She had been at home for two years after her National Youth Service and was desperate to get a job. She was invited for what I would call ‘blind’ interview because they weren’t told which company wanted to hire them. Lucky to scale the first hurdle, she was invited along with a few others for the second interview after which she was offered provisional employment. The bank offered about N130, 000 as monthly salary but the agency to which their employment was contracted wanted half of the money or no job for them.

For obvious reasons, she rejected the offer but a lot of her colleagues couldn’t because they just needed to get somewhere to go in the morning and return in the evening under the guise of working even if the salary could

‘This is no time to point accusing fingers at anyone as all of us are guilty of not planning well or not being faithful to our plans. This is one of our national problems and the earlier we tackle it together with our other problems the better’

I

That Immigration job tragedy barely cover their transport fare. They cannot continue to stay at home any longer. The frustration of joblessness had driven them almost to the point of insanity, so any job would do.

I thought this was rubbish and was going to fight it until a friend told me it was not a new thing and spoke of a relation who is into that kind of slavery employment with this same third generation bank.

You can now imagine why over 700,000 applied for 4,560 jobs. The NIS being a Federal government agency guarantees job security and is relatively well paying. Nobody shares your salary with you except your family and relations. And all things being equal you can expect to work till your retirement and earn a hefty gratuity and good pension thereafter.

These are some of the attractions of government jobs whether federal, state or local, and they probably explain why those 700,000 Nigerians wanted to work with the NIS. It would not be out of place to say that not all of them are unemployed. A few just wanted to change jobs and thought being an Immigration Officer is a better option.

If job security and perhaps better pay are some of the attractions to Federal Government jobs, why can’t other employers offer same for their workers? The situation is worse in the private sector where most employers hire casual labour in their workforce primarily to reduce cost and also free themselves from all obligations under permanent employment.

Salaries are often not paid as and when due and the workers for fear of being sacked keep quiet hoping that tomorrow would be better.

And when they remember the number of years they spent at home before getting the

N an environment dominated by a tyranny of obsessed masculinity; it is often erroneously viewed as preposterous for women to dare to lock horns with men, in a competitive contest. But that thinking is retrogressive. Even from biblical and classical historical standpoints, women had been proven as change agents and pace-setters of moral reformation. It is therefore an aberration of monumental proportion, sometimes bordering on obnoxious cultural practices, to discriminate against women on issues that they have the inherent capacity and natural endowments to accomplish.

Right from the era of Mother Theresa who exemplified a moral force through her charitable works to the thousands of sick and dispossessed persons in Calcutta, the India’s second biggest city; to the recent case of Malala Yousafzai- a Pakistan schoolgirl who defied Taliban threats to campaign for women’s right to education, women have continued to play noble and awesome roles in the making of a better society.

During the 2013 inauguration speech for a second term in office, President Barack Obama of United States noted that “it is our generation’s task to carry out what those pioneers began, for our journey is not complete until our wives, our mothers and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts”. In essence, a democracy that discriminates against women is a contradiction in terms. That is why Kofi Annan, the former Secretary General of United Nations emphasized that families are better fed when women participate actively in developmental affairs and political decisions.

The story of Sally Ride, the first American woman and the youngest American astronaut to go into space is illustrative here. For decades, she had mounted spirited pressure to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), an agency of United States government that is responsible for the nation’s civilian space programme and for aeronauts and aerospace research. NASA had feared biological concerns for women experiencing long periods of weightlessness in space.

Apart from having two successful flights into space, when she was eventually permitted, she moved ahead to become a professor of physics and co-authored seven science books for children. Indeed, Americans have long recognized the strength, in galvanizing the talents and skills of their women in development activities, including governance and public administration.

Take for examples, the countries of India and Afghanistan where women’s aspiration to get to the top are fraught with disdain, ridicule and cultural abuse. The only female athlete that represented Afghanistan in the last London Olympics, the 23 year-old Tahmina Kohistani showed what women could do and what future generations should fight for. Though she finished last in the second round in 14 minutes, 42 seconds; she is hoping to feature in the forthcoming Brazilian Olympics, and that outing had ‘revolutionalized’ the deepseated thought pattern against women’s quest to attain excellence in open competitive events.

Certainly, the likes of Ms Tawakkol Karman a journalist

job, they would rather hang on than challenge their employers or resign; half bread they say is better than none, you hear them say.

Some parents had invested so much in the education and training of their children with the lawful expectation that the children would get a good job after graduation to be able to take care of them in their old age. Unfortunately things have not turned out that way for most of them. Some in their old ages are still sustaining their adult children; it is this bad.

I am sure most of those 700,000 Nigerians that turned out at designated centres across the federation last Saturday for the 4, 560 NIS jobs took all these into consideration before they applied for and headed for the interview.

But what did they get? Tears, sorrows and blood.

The choice of the National Stadium in Abuja and other similar facilities across the federation for the interview showed that the NIS anticipated a large turnout of applicants, so, what or how did they prepare for them? In Abuja where no fewer than seven persons died, little or nothing was provided for the almost 70,000 that turned up for the interview in terms of medical service. Under normal circumstances, a venue that can accommodate 70,000 people at once must as of necessity and rule be provided with basic medical facilities in case of emergency. Was any provided by NIS at the stadium last Saturday?

The Minister of Interior Abba Moro, under whose control the NIS falls, in an unguarded statement blamed some of the applicants for being unruly and accused some of turning up even when they did not apply for the job. What a stupid talk? Even if they were not invited,

which I doubt, the NIS and by extension the Ministry of Interior should have made adequate preparation for crowd control in cases of emergencies like last Saturday’s. More so, NIS being a paramilitary organization should have trained its officers and men in effective and safe crowd control. If this had been done, there would have been no need to use the military to control the surging crowd.

There are so many gates leading into and out of the main bowl of the Abuja National Stadium, why was it that only one of them was opened to let the applicants in? Was this the NIS way of controlling the crowd?

We often wonder why Nigeria doesn’t get the nod to host international events like South Africa by the international organizing bodies; this is one of the reasons. You can imagine if last Saturday’s job interview was an international event and what an embarrassment it would have been for our country internationally?

I remember one Challenge Cup semi of final match at the Surulere, Lagos National Stadium sometime in the late 70s played under floodlight. The match ended in favour of the less fancied team and somebody somewhere in the Stadium Management decided to put off the floodlight immediately after the match apparently as punishment for the winning team and its supporters. In pitch darkness, the spectators started filling out only to see all the gates but one locked. The stampede was exactly like last Saturday’s and many souls were lost.

We didn’t learn anything from that experience. In 2008 people also died during job recruitment exercise by the same NIS and its counterpart in the Nigeria Prison Service. It doesn’t seem we learnt anything from that experience either. Only if don’t fail to learn from their mistakes and they are condemned to repeating it. Are we fools in this country?

This is no time to point accusing fingers at anyone as all of us are guilty of not planning well or not being faithful to our plans. This is one of our national problems and the earlier we tackle it together with our other problems the better. But then, some people must be punished for the death of this Nigerians, let’s start with Comrade Abba Moro and his team including the NIS leadership.

Over to you President Goodluck Jonathan.

Abia guber 2015 and the gender issue

By Okechukwu Madu from Yemen-the backwater of Arab world, would not have become the first Arab woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 if she did not mobilize university students to organize a sit-in at Yemen Change Square. That is the power of a woman, in a turbulent country, with a government that is intolerant to dissenting views.

In Africa, where corruption and bad leadership have combined to make the continent a giant toddler, the first female president of Malawi, Joyce Banda who succeeded the late President Bingu wa Mutharika is breaking new grounds. Her policy choices and statements have turned in accolades and global acclaim. Her rare guts and motherly resolve to leapfrog her country from the shackles of corruption, abuse of office and high cost of governance, in the face of debilitating poverty and lack, is awesome. Apart from slashing her statutory earnings by 30% and selling off 35 Mercedes Benz cars used by the cabinet, she also resolved to sell the new presidential jet, purchased by her predecessor, to enable her tackle chronic food shortages affecting millions of poor people in Malawi. That is the passion with which a woman pushes any course she believes in.

Back home in Nigeria, Dora Akunyili, the former Director General (DG) of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC), at a considerable risk to her personal safety, waged relentless onslaught against the distribution and sales of counterfeit drugs and unsafe food. Her courage in battling the monster and its syndicate attracted harvests of laurels both locally and internationally. Her record has remained a benchmark for successive Dgs in the agency.

With all these trajectory of female icons, why then should gender be an issue in the hot race towards Governor T.A. Orji’s successor in Abia State in 2015? Already, the quest for a first female governor of Abia State is boosted by President Goodluck Jonathan administration’s avowed readiness to meet the Beijing conference declaration, which advocates 35 percent affirmative action. Barring the weak propaganda against womanhood in our clime, Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, an astute parliamentarian has left no one in doubt that she is equal to the task of governing Abia State. She has a mark of destiny on her as a trailblazer. She emerged the first elected female legislator to the House of Representatives from Abia State when nobody gave her a chance between 2003 and 2007 and performed outstandingly. In 2007, she was rewarded by her people with elevation to the Senate to represent Abia Central Senatorial District, this time in the PDP. And she consolidated the feat by being re-elected in 2011.

In the Senate, she chaired sensitive committees made up of

eminent men who had spotted her managerial prowess and heart for the people. Senator Nwaogu dispassionately dissects public policies and initiates options to promote good governance. As a Senate Committee Chairman of Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions, made up of 11 male Senators, Senator Nwaogu introduced critical motions in the floor of the Senate that brought about some fundamental changes in the operations of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

One of the gains of such legislative interventions is what is called Budget and Assumption Exercise or Cherry Picking which entails that a customer in a bank that has a problem and is acquired by another automatically belongs to the new bank with his assets and liabilities. This has immensely removed the hassles Nigerians go through in accessing their funds when a bank is acquired by a sister bank.

Presently, Nwaogu is the chairman of the Committee on Gas. She had canvassed for a comprehensive review of the nation’s gas master-plan with a view to making Nigeria an indisputable regional hub of gas-related industries in no distant future. The committee is currently collaborating with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to fine-tune the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) for passage into law. She had also used her mercurial personality and national reach to attract numerous constituency projects across the LGAs in her Senatorial Zone.

Indeed, Senator Nwaogu is like J.P. Clark’s good driver, who arrives the market again and again, with fresh vegetables. Her entrance to gubernatorial contest in Abia is to contribute her quota, from the driver’s seat, in moving Abia to greater heights. Her wealth of experience, uncommon courage, strength of character, love for her people, amiable personality and above all, virtue, are the exceptional qualities that the state should leverage on, to consolidate the air of freedom witnessed under Governor Orji. Let her therefore, be judged by her abilities and not on gender.

•Madu contributed this piece from Umuahia, Abia State.

‘Her wealth of experience, uncommon courage, strength of character, love for her people, amiable personality and above all, virtue, are the exceptional qualities that the state should leverage on, to consolidate the air of freedom witnessed under Governor Orji. Let her therefore, be judged by her abilities and not on gender’

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

CHELSEA VS GALATASARAY

CHELSEA VS GALATASARAY

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

25

’

It is obvious that some people are benefiting from this insecurity in Nigeria and will want it to continue forever

’

E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

See page 26

The rift between Minister of Defence Gen. Aliyu Gusau (rtd) and the Service Chiefs over the handling of the Boko Haram insurgency blew open last week. Gen. Gusau wants the military chiefs to avail him of their operational tactics, but they are not ready to do so, citing the National Security Agencies Act and the Nigeria Armed Forces Act. How will this feud be resolved?

Precious Igbonwelundu reports.

Gen. Gusau’s stand Gen. Gusau was said to have told Air Marshal Badeh that he would want to meet directly with the service chiefs and strategic commandants to dish out operational orders to them

Service Chiefs’position ...The Service Chiefs reportedly claimed that since the ongoing operation in the Northeast is tactical, they cannot sit down with the minister of defence to discuss their strategies and intelligence issues. They also insisted that doing so would be contrary to the provisions of the National Security Agencies Act, 2004, and the Armed Forces Act, 1993.

The chiefs further argued that by virtue of Section 217 and 218 of the 1999 Constitution, it is only the President who has powers to direct them on operational tactics and such powers can only be delegated to any of the service chiefs, but not a minister.

What the law says

INSIDE:

…. Pursuant to Section 5 of the 1999 Constitution, every Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a delegate and can act on behalf of the President or Federal Government.

Section 5(1)(a) provides that the executive powers vested in the President may be exercised by him either directly or through the Vice President or Ministers or other officers in the public service of the federation…

NIALS scores media high -Page 27

THE BIG QUESTION

?

Gusau vs Service Chiefs

Who is right?

BACKGROUND

H

-Page 39

His terms Gen. Gusau, when taking the job had, among other things, allegedly stated that he should be made the coordinating Minister for Defence; given free hand to operate, do whatever he can to confront the security challenges facing the nation as well as the opportunity to resign anytime from the cabinet if he is displeased with the situation or if he feels that he has fulfilled his mission in the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

As Coordinating Minister for Defence, it implies that Gen. Gusau will play a supervisory role in the Armed Forces and other security agencies, a situation the Service Chiefs were said to have opposed.

Their argument The Service Chiefs claimed that since the ongoing operation in the Northeast is tactical, they cannot sit down with the minister to discuss their strategies and intelligence issues. They insisted that doing so will be contrary to the provisions of the National Security Agencies Act, 2004, and the Armed Forces Act, 1993.

The Service Chiefs further argued that by virtue of Section 217 and 218 of the 1999 Constitution, it is only the President who has powers to direct them on operational tactics and such powers can only be delegated to any of the service chiefs, but not a minister.

The situation has generated concerns, especially coming at a time when the country has severely suffered from the activities of Boko Haram. While some analysts believe that Gen. Gusau, being a respected retired military officer, did the right thing by asking the Service Chiefs to give him intelligence reports on their operations, others are of the view that it could lead to sabotage since the President had at several fora admitted that Boko Haram apologists were in his cabinet.

Other Nigerians also argued that Gen. Gusau should allow the chiefs the free hand to do their jobs as there are differences among professionalism, constitutionality and politics. They argued that in issues of defence and security, any supervising minister in the ministry is just a political head and should not ask for more than necessary.

To them, whatever agreement the President entered with Gen. Gusau was a nullity, since there are constitutional abridgment and clear-cut provisions regarding the operations of the Armed Forces.

Issues for determination

E is not the first Army General to be the Minister of Defence since the return to democracy in 1999. There were General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd) and General Godwin Abbe (rtd). But, barely one week after he assumed office as the Minister of Defence, General Aliyu Gusau (rtd), reportedly threatened to resign after an alleged refusal by the Service Chiefs to divulge intelligence and operational strategies to him in the fight against the Islamic sect, Boko Haram.

Gen. Gusau and the Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro had summoned the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS); Chief of Army Staff (COAS); Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and Chief of Air Staff (CAS) and strategic commandants for a meeting. But only the CDS, Air Marshal Alex Badeh, attended and told the ministers that the Service Chiefs were coordinating operation in the Northeast.

Being a retired Lieutenant-General and a former National Secu-

Lagos to get Commercial Court

rity Adviser, Gen. Gusau was said to have felt slighted by the absence of the Service Chiefs at the meeting, an action he described as “disrespectful”.

He was also said to have told Air Marshal Badeh that he would want to meet directly with the service chiefs and strategic commandants to dish out operational orders to them, which the CDS stiffly opposed and insisted that only the President and Commander-in-Chief can exercise such powers.

Gen. Gusau, who reportedly saw the CDS’ position as being rude, was said to have written the President, expressing his frustration, especially because he had given some conditions before accepting to serve as the Defence Minister.

Though the ministers and the chiefs were said to have met at the weekend to resolve grey areas, it was not immediately clear how the superiority quest would be tackled.

Although President Goodluck Jonathan was said to have waded in to stop Gusau from resigning, there are still unresolved issues for determination. Among them are whether the purported agreement entered into by the President and Gen. Gusau can stand the test of time amid constitutional provisions on the operation of the Armed Forces? Pursuant to Section 5(1) of the Constitution, can the Minister of Defence exercise the President’s powers as a delegate to the extent of dishing operational orders to service chiefs? Being a political appointee, how healthy would it be to subject the nation’s entire security apparatus to his control? What are the legal provisions with regards to the running of the Armed Forces? How best can the situation be addressed to avoid a recurrence?

•Continued on page 26

Ogun court strikes out suit against monarch -Page 38

Deaths at my backyard and elsewhere -Page 38

26

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

LAW COVER CONT’D the Federation and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces functions as Chairman of the National Defence Council and the National Security Council, which are established by the Constitution(Section 153(1)(g and k). ‘‘By the community reading of the provisions of the constitution the Service Chiefs all report to the Chief of Defence Staff, who in turn reports to the President on intelligence and operational matters. ‘‘A careful examination of the composition of the bodies above referred as contained in item 16 of the 3rd schedule, (part 1) of the National Defence Council, has the Service Chiefs reporting to the Chief of Defence Staff, who in turn reports to the Minister of Defence, but by the provisions of item 25, we observe that by the hierarchical structure, the Chief of Defence Staff ranks above the Minister of Defence. ‘‘The implication of this is that on issues of internal security such as the insurgency being experienced in the northern part of the country, the CDS reports to the President and his conduct and that of his men, must not be viewed as insubordination. ‘‘I really do not see the reason for any conflict between the MOD and the Service Chiefs for non disclosure of operational and intelligence matters in the fight against Boko Haram, because the powers are conferred by the Constitution and the functions are clearly set out,’’ said Quakers.

In the same vein, Hon argued that with the coming into force of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act No. 25 of 2013, and Section 4 of the National Securities Act, Cap. N74, Laws of the Federation, 2004, the MOD has no role to play in the day-to-day operations and intelligence of the armed forces.

He argued that both Acts provides that the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) should be “the coordinating body for all security and enforcement agencies” in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.

From the constitutional and statutory scheme of things in Nigeria, Hon argued that the MOD is just like any other minister, hence military chiefs, though are required to confer with him on certain defence matters, may lawfully choose not to, without incurring the wrath of the law.

Unless the necessary laws are amended, Hon said the MOD has no power, whatsoever to summon military chiefs to brief him on any matter. ‘‘This position has nothing to do with the person of Gen. Aliyu Gusau, a highly respected and thorough-bred ex-Army General. The law is what it is and is not what it ought to be. ‘‘Whatever agreement Mr. President may have reached with Gen. Gusau prior to the latter’s appointment as Defence Minister is inferior and must give way to the Constitution of Nigeria and all the relevant laws cited above,’’ said Hon.

...Who is right?

•Continued from page 25

What the laws say Pursuant to Section 5 of the 1999 Constitution, every Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a delegate and can act on behalf of the President or Federal Government.

Section 5(1)(a) provides that the executive powers vested on the President may be exercised by him either directly or through the Vice President or Ministers or other officers in the public service of the federation.

However, such exercise of powers, the section stated, are effective to the point where there are no other enactments of the National Assembly restricting such powers.

The Constitution went further in Sections 217 and 218, under the establishment of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and provided that the President in exercising his powers as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, shall determine the operational use of the armed forces of the Federation, which include powers to appoint Service Chiefs and heads of other branches of the Armed Fforces.

According to Section 218 (3), the President may, by directions in writing and subject to such conditions he thinks fit, delegate to ‘‘any member of the armed forces of the Federation his powers relating to the operational use of the Armed Forces of the Federation.’’

In the same vein, the Armed Forces Act, 1993 stipulates the person saddled with the day-to-day operation of the system, which is the CDS. Although the Minister of Defence is senior to the CDS, his responsibility under the Forces Council does not include dishing orders to the Service Chiefs.

The Act in Section 5(1) provides for the establishment and composition of the Armed Forces Council, where the President is Chairman and the Defence Minister and Service Chiefs are members. It states that the Forces Council shall, under the authority of the President, be responsible for the command, discipline and administration of, and for all other matters relating to the Armed Forces, but ‘‘(2) the responsibility of the Forces Council shall not extend to the operational use of the Armed Forces.’’

Section 7(1) states: ‘‘The Chief of Defence Staff shall, subject to the general direction of the President and of the National Assembly, be vested with the day-to-day command and general superintendence of the Armed Forces. ‘‘(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the President may make regulations - (a) as to the Service Chiefs in whom command over the respective service is vested; and (b) as to the circumstance in which the command is to be exercised. ‘‘(3) Without prejudice to the generality of the provisions of subsection (2) of this section, regulations made under this section may provide for the duties, functions and powers of the Chief of Defence Staff and the respective Service Chiefs. ‘‘8. (1) The President shall determine the operational use of the Armed Forces, but may, under general or special directives, delegate his responsibility for the day-to-day operational use- (a) of the Armed Forces, to the Chief of Defence Staff; (b) of the Army, to the Chief of Army Staff; (c) of the Navy, to the Chief of Naval Staff; and (d) of the Air Force, to the Chief of Air Staff. ‘‘(2) It shall be the duty of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff and the Chief of Air Staff, as the case may be, to comply with any directive given to them by the President under subsection (1) of this section. ‘‘(3) In this section, “operational use of the Armed Forces” includes the operational use of the Armed Forces in Nigeria for the purpose of maintaining and securing public safety and public order.’’

Similarly, the National Security Agencies Act, 2004 states thus: “For the purpose of co-ordinating the intelligence activities of the National Security Agencies set up under section I of this Act, there shall be appointed by the President a Co-coordinator on National Security.

“The Co-coordinator on National Security shall be a principal staff officer in the office of the President. The Co-coordinator on National Security shall be charged with the duty of: (a) advising the President on matters concerning the intelligence activities of the agencies; (b) making recommendations in relation to the activities of the agencies to the President, as contingencies may warrant; (c) correlating and evaluating intelligence reports relating to the national security and providing the appropriate dissemination of such intelligence within government, using existing facilities as the President may direct; (d) determining the number and level of staff to be employed by each agency established pursu-

•COAS Gen. Keneth Minimah

•Minister of Defence, Gen. Aliyu Gusau (rtd)

•CNS Vice Admiral Usman Jibril

•CDS, Air MarshalBadeh

ant to Section I of this Act and organising the transfer and posting of staff, especially the transfer and posting of existing staff of the Nigerian Security Organisation established pursuant to the Nigerian Security Organisation Act 1976, repealed by Section 7 (1) of this Act; (e) doing such other things in connection with the foregoing provisions of this section as the President may, from time to time, determine.

Who said what?

As the political head of the Defence Ministry, which comprises the military and civil components, the Minister of Defence (MOD) has two principal advisers viz: a permanent secretary, who is secretary of the Forces’ Council, and the CDS. To former CNS, Vice Admiral Jibril Ayinla, the CDS and Service Chiefs should have no constraints feeding the minister with relevant information that will assist in policy formulation to eradicate Boko Haram.

He said: ‘‘The MOD is the political head of all the Armed Forces. He is the head of all echelons of the higher command of the Armed Forces. So there should be no impediment whatsoever in feeding him with information he needs to formulate the strategy to fight any war including the extant insurgency ravaging our nation state. ‘‘The CDS and Service Chiefs along with any resource persons the MOD may co-opt, need to urgently work out the strategy and evolve tactics to nip this insurgency spreading like cancer in the bud.’’

Another former Service Chief, who preferred anonymity, said there is a difference between politics and profession. He argued that the strength of any military is in its intelligence and such information should not be available to a political appointee. ‘‘If you want the job done, allow the professionals to do it. Gen. Gusau is now in politics, though he should know better. Would he have agreed to such conditions if he were still in service? It is just like me, coming to you and demanding that you submit your pen, camera and other gadgets to me; it is not done,’’ he said.

Lawyers, who added their voices to the issue, argued that the position of the CDS and Service Chiefs should not be viewed as insubordinates since there are clear legal provisions to back their claims.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch Chairman, Monday Ubani, and constitutional lawyers Norrison Quakers (SAN) and Sabestine Hon (SAN) said the outcries were unnecessary.

Ubani said the matter on hand was not one issue of who is right or wrong. “I would rather think that Nigeria is clearly endangered by the

•CAS Air Vice Marshal Adesola Amosu

‘

To minimise the devastating effect of terrorism in Nigeria, all the cadres and structures of security apparatus must be properly overhauled for efficiency

The way out

‘

military brass that are managing the security system of the nation. If the ultimate desire of those managing the security of lives and properties in Nigeria is to ensure effective and efficient system of security, then we should not be talking of not disclosing operational details to the man, who ought to coordinate all the security chiefs for the protection of lives and properties in Nigeria.

“If we all mean well for the country then the issue of crisis of confidence should not be there in the first place. It is obvious that some people are benefiting from this insecurity in Nigeria and will want it to continue forever. One is not amused by all that played out last week. There is more than meets the eye in this insecurity in Nigeria,” he argued.

Ubani pointed out that the Minister of Defence is in charge of defence both territorially and extra territorially. “Therefore, being the eye and ear of the president on issues of security, the Service Chiefs ought to work collaboratively with him for effective defence of the country,” he said, adding that the bickerings and outright contempt of him is clearly uncalled for.

“He represents the president on matters of defence in the cabinet, however, the president remains the Commander-In-Chief of all the armed forces in Nigeria,” he stated.

He noted that the office of the National Security Adviser is defined by nomenclature and that it is to advise the president purely on security matters. “The office of the Defence Minister is much more than that. Operational and administrative structures are erected by this ministry to ensure effective defence of the country in all its ramifications. Therefore, I think it is not a contradiction. However, collaboration with altruistic love for the country is the key word,” he said.

Quakers submitted that by Section 130(1) of the Constitution, the President as Chief Executive of

Making reference to the United States Intelligence Act, 2004, and the Philippine Human Security Act, 2007, Hon said it would be dangerous to vest all security apparatus in the hands of one person or office.

He said the nation’s laws should be amended by the National Assembly, if the fight against terrorism and organised crime must get any headway in Nigeria. ‘‘The office of Nigeria’s National Security Adviser is too limited in terms of financing, personnel and spread to effectively coordinate counterterrorism in Nigeria. The US and Philippine models should be fused together urgently by the National Assembly in enacting a law to that effect,’’ he said.

Quakers said it is important to understand whether, the issue is internal or external in order to avoid a reoccurrence. ‘‘I believe the reason, the MOD would have felt slighted, is because he is a retired General, who understands command structure and reporting line. The hue and cry for me is absolutely unnecessary,’’ said Quakers.

Ubani urged for collaboration among all the actors in the security sector including Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, the CDS and the service chiefs. “They must all work together for the protection of lives and properties of both the elite and the commoners within the country.

Patriotism and love for the country and the citizens should be on the minds of those appointed or selected to serve the country. It is a privilege for one to serve his country. It should not be for ones interest or pocket, which is the case in Nigeria,” Ubani stated.

To minimise the devastating effect of terrorism in Nigeria, he suggested that all the cadres and structures of security apparatus must be properly overhauled for efficiency. Personnel’s welfare, according to him, should not be toyed with. He emphasised that they must all collaborate for the good of the nation.

To end terrorism in Nigeria, he said, the country must be truthful enough to itself by putting in place a proper federal structure to allow autonomy, competition and growth at their possible pace. “That is the panacea to the madness happening in the country at present,” he said.

27

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

LAW SOCIETY

NIALS scores media high Stories by John Austin Unachukwu

A

T

HE Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), last week at Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre Abuja, conducted media assessment and the contributions of the media to the achievement of its mandate and the vision of its founding fathers within the 35 years of its existence.

This programme was part of a week programme to celebrate the achievements of the institution in the last 35 years of its establishment.

Plaques were given to some media houses in appreciation and recognition of their contributions to the achievement of NIALS mandate. The media houses recognised are: The Nation newspaper, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Vanguard newspapers, Channels Television and Daily Trust newspaper.

NIALS’ Director-General, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) expressed gratitude to the media for its support to the Institute and contributions to the course of nation building. He noted that without the active and massive support of the media, the Institute would not have discharged its mandate creditably within the period under review.

He praised the objectivity, investigative and analytical virtues of the media, noting that there is room for improvements.

Introducing the programme, a Research Fellow with the Institute, Laura Ani said: “The Institute is organising a week anniversary celebration to mark its service to scholarship and education in Nigeria. The Institute, more than any institution in the field of law, has contributed to the development of scholarship, education and capacity building for the legal profession in Nigeria, Africa and beyond. Therefore, the Institute has acquitted itself of that mandate and the vision of its founding fathers.”

She continued: “Today’s event is three-fold, firstly we have the social media assessment of NIALS contributions to national development, the purpose of this assessment is to access our media temperature by auditing our social media impact on the society. This will be determined by measuring our growth, engagement, trend awareness, likes and subscribes on the likes of facebook, twitter and of course, our website.

“Most importantly, this will be a highly interactive session where we require contributions from all media houses here present both print, electronic and the general public.

At the end we hope to determine where we are, where we want to go and how to achieve this.

“Secondly we would be having the media awards to formally celebrate with our media partners and lastly the public presentation of all NIALS publications as well as a report on our research projects.”

The best supporting electronic media award was given to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) while the best supporting print media award went to The Nation newspaper. Channels Television received the most friendly media house award while the best supporting law correspondent award went to John Austin Unachukwu of The Nation newspaper.

Vera Chinwuba of the NTA received the most distinguished law personality award while Femi Okeowo also of NTA received

Lawyer calls for establishment of trade mark office in Lagos

•From left: Victoria Awomolo (SAN), Prof Ayua (SAN) and Prof Azinge (SAN)

•From left: Prof Yinka Omoregbe, Institute Secretary, James Bathnna and Acting Institute Busar, Augustine Odukoma

• From left: Prof. Bambo Adewopo, Prof. Paul Idorniogie and Prof. Charles Iloegbune

•Col. Bello Fadile (Rtd) and Prof. Ayo Ajomo

the most efficient law journalist award.

Outstsnding NIALS media friends awards went to Adenlanwa Olukorede Bamgboye, Shola Adeko Sholeye and Innocent Chikwaraeze Anaba

The event was attended by former Directors-General of the Institute including, Prof.

Ayo Ajomo, Prof. Ignatius Ayua and a host of Professors from the institute and outside the Institute.

LAGOS based legal practitioner, Denis Okhagba has called on the Minister of Trade and Investment to establish a zonal trade mark office in Lagos. This, according to him, will help in harnessing economic potentials and drastically reduce the suffering of teeming Lagos lawyers seeking to register trade marks. He commended the activities of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Yaba zonal office, for doing a great job.

He said the present system of trade mark license registration is expensive, time consuming and a disincentive to prospective applicants. He appealed to the relevant authorities to put in motion the necessary legal and administrative machinery for the establishment of a trade mark office in Lagos to cater for the needs of the teeming population of legal practitioners therein.

“I recall vividly that upon being called to the Bar in 1995, a corporate acquaintance of mine sought to know which area of legal practice I intended to “specialise”. In response, I told him I intend to embark on “general practice”, with the overriding philosophy of “putting a decent meal on the table from the proceeds of my effort.

“The above approach stems from a realisation that majority of Nigerians believe that qualified legal practitioner should be able to handle any brief under the sun without giving excuses, although the clamour for specialisation is fast gaining a lot of converts,” he said.

Okhagba said it is against the background of the foregoing thoughts that he reflected on the challenges being encountered in processing registration of trade mark certificates for interested parties; a process centralised in the Ministry of Trade and Investment, trade mark office, Abuja.

He said the present scenario is that a Lagos based legal practitioner has to link up with a professional colleague based in Abuja, who will in turn liaise with a trade mark agent in order to set in motion the preliminary step of conducting availability of the trade mark for registration. “This may be done manually or electronically (on-line) and can take several weeks for the result to be known,” he said, adding: “If the name/mark is approved for registration the next step will be payment of the statutory fees and issuance of the acknowledgement form and acceptance form.”

He continued: “In getting through the two stages enumerated above, the Lagos based Legal Practitioner will charge his professional fees and factor in the fees for his colleague and trade mark agent in Abuja, thereby increasing the total cost of the process.

“The next stage will be to watch out for publication of the trade mark license in the trade mark journal and this will entail releasing funds to the legal practitioner in Abuja for transport and logistics from his own office to the trade mark office in Abuja not forgetting the fact that he has to link up (yet again) with a trade mark agent to facilitate retrieval of the information for onward transmission to the Lagos based Legal Practitioner and in the process a lot of valuable time is lost.

“If we compare the foregoing scenario in the process of obtaining a trade mark license with what currently obtains in the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), which has established functional offices in almost all the six geopolitical zones of the country, then there is justification in the clarion call for the establishment of a zonal trade mark office in Lagos being the economic and commercial nerve center of Nigeria.”

N4.7b money laundering charge: PHCN scuttles hearing of Babalakin’s no case submission application

T

HE epileptic supply of electricity to Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, last Friday stalled the hearing of no case submission filed by Bi- Courtney Chairman, Dr. Olawale Babalakin.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had charged Babalakin, Okoh and their firms Bi-Courtney Limited; Stabilini Visioni Limited and Renix Nigeria Limited to court over an alleged illegal transfer of N4.7b on behalf of convicted former Delta State Governor, James Ibori.

The defendants are facing a 27-

By Adebisi Onanuga

count charge bordering on money laundry, conspiracy, retention of proceeds of a criminal conduct and corruptly conferring benefit on account of public action.

They were charged before the court presided by Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo.

The first attempt by Babalakin to argue his no case submission application was stalled at the last appearance in court owing to the fact that counsel to the EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), had health issues.

Justice Lawal-Akapo had then adjourned the matter till last Friday for argument.

However, epileptic supply from the PHCN to the High Court of Lagos State, Ikeja also prevented the judge from sitting last week.

Consequently, Justice AkapoLawal had to fix April 30, 2014 for hearing of argument on the pending application.

At the last proceeding, the judge said he only got the case file about 20 minutes before the commencement of the proceeding.

He informed both parties on the

need to study the details of the charges in order to be on top of the situation.

The defendants had in various applications filed by their counsels challenged the money laundering charges preferred against them by the agency.

They also queried the jurisdiction of the court to try them on the alleged offences on the ground that it is only the Federal High Court that can try them.

They had in the same applications argued that the EFCC did not secure the fiat of the Lagos State Attorney-General to commence the

•Babalakin

trial at the Lagos High Court.

The prosecution counsel, led by Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) told the court that he had filed objections to the applications.

28

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

LEGAL OPINION A paper presented by CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA (SAN) at the 50th anniversary of the Nigerian Law School.

50 years of legal education in Nigeria: A critique be sure that any Lawyer who practises in Nigeria is not out of touch with the Profession32. This should be seen as a further contribution of legal education to the profession in Nigeria.

•Continued from lastweek

(f) Continuing Legal Education Continuing legal education (CLE; also known as MCLE (mandatory or minimum continuing legal education)) is a professional education of lawyers that takes place after their initial admission to the bar. It is to ensure that lawyers remain professionally competent throughout their careers. In the United Kingdom for instance, a lawyer has to be assessed every year before he is allowed to practise. To remain competent, the lawyer has to stay in touch with the profession. All Nigerian Lawyers in legal practice or employment must comply with the Nigerian Bar Association’s Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) Programme.

The Nigerian Bar Association Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) serves as the Continuing Legal Education regulatory authority for the NBA and the profession by providing the standards and scope for the MCLE programme.

The institute is overseen by the Board of the Nigerian Bar Association’s Mandatory Continuing Legal Education and works closely with Nigerian Bar Association Sections and the various local branches at large in developing programmes on Mandatory Continuing Legal Education.

In many states in the United States, Continuing Legal Education participation is required of attorneys to maintain their license to practise law. Continuing Legal Education requirements exist in many other jurisdictions, such as in Canada.

If we impose these same conditions here in Nigeria, we can

8. Conclusion

There is no doubt that legal education in Nigeria has come a long way since the days of “Igbosere”. We now have more campuses of the Nigerian Law school than before, more Faculties of Law, more law students and by extension, more lawyers. This is an encouraging development, but it is not enough that the period of 50 years of legal education has brought us more lawyers, we also need to know that their quality is such that they can stand among the best in the world. This should be our collective objective. Today’s lawyer lacks adequate preparation for the basics of legal practice and this lack of preparedness stems from the problems already highlighted.

There is a need to adjust legal education in Nigeria to be more in tune with what obtains in the developed parts of the world.

Happily, there have been concerted efforts made by the current Leadership of the Nigerian Law School to address these problems, some of which were inherited.

We should aim not only to have as many lawyers as possible, but to have lawyers we can be proud of at all times; both intellectually and otherwise.

We should be more forward thinking. What would legal education in Nigeria look like when it is 100 years old? Would it be better than it is presently or worse? These are the questions that should agitate our minds. Like I said earlier, it is not all gloom and doom. The profession has coped well after

•Gadzama (SAN)

50 years of legal education. We are not where we are supposed to be, but we are also not where we were before.

•Concluded

•Prof Animi Awah, Director-General (NIALS) Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) and Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye

• Justice Dele Peters (left), Damian Dodo (SAN).

•Prof. Lanre Fagbohun and Acting Institute Librarian, Uwen Eteng.

• From left; Former NIALS’s Librarian, Theophilus O. Dada, Dr. Emmanuel Okon, Deputy Institute Secretary, Sena-Jerry Imaghiagbe and Dr. Chinyere Ani

Why development will continue to elude Nigeria, by don

A

PROFESSOR of law, Animi Awah has said development will continue to elude Nigeria until its leaders show more respect for the rule of law. She said this during her inaugural lecture at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka.

Awah spoke on the topic: “Harnessing Nigeria’s banking system: Potential for sustainable development.”

The lecture was part of activities to mark NIALS’s 35th anniversary.

She said the government must not act above law if it wants to enthrone a culture of respect for rules.

According to Awah, the rule of law requires that there is a set of rules which are known in advance; that such rules are actually in force; and that mechanisms exist to ensure their proper application.

Rule of law, she said, requires that conflicts in application of the rules can be resolved through binding decisions of an independent judicial or arbitral body. “Where there is an absence of those requirements, there is bound to be crisis,” she said.

Awah said where rule of law is truly practiced, the government is bound by the law and every person is treated equally under the law.

The human dignity of each individual is recognised and protected by law, she said, add-

By Precious Igbonwelundu

ing that justice is also accessible to all where rule of law is followed.

Awah added: “The rule of law requires transparent legislation, fair laws, predictable enforcement and accountable government to maintain order, promote private sector growth, fight poverty and have legitimacy.

Speaking on the recent banking crisis Nigeria faced, Awah said it occurred because “certain vital indices were not functional or were flagrantly abused.” “Banks do not just fail; the failure is triggered by activities of men and to talk of failure without making such people culpable is to mask a monumental fraud.

If the banking system is to affect development positively and give a clear signal to investors and other stakeholders, it needs to show a clear commitment to abide by rules and regulations and not seek to circumvent rules that seem to make demands on them,” she said “To ensure that man induced crisis and failure do not occur, these vital indices need to be adhered to strictly and abusers called to book.”

The professor urged banks to do more towards housing funding and mortgage schemes.

Her words: “It would be a plus for development if Nigerians become house owners. More than 80 per cent of Nigerians live in rented housing compared with South Africa’s 19 per

cent and 22 per cent in Ghana.”

According to her, Nigeria’s housing deficit, which is about 15 to 17 million housing unit, will need an estimated cost of 45 to 69 trillion to address.

“Urbanisation is one of the greatest causes of housing deficit in Nigeria. It has been estimated that about 85 percent of the urban population in Nigeria live in single rooms, often with eight to 12 persons per room.

“This state of housing and urbanisation is antithetical to sustainable socio-economic growth. Only a planned urban development can stem this tide. The Sites and Service Scheme need to be resuscitated and made to work more effectively to both the rich and poor,’’ she said.

Prof. Awah who stated that an efficient financial system is a foundation for building sustained economic growth and an open vibrant economic system, noted that if the banking system is effective, efficient and disciplined, it will enthrone a rapid growth in other sectors.

According to her, the real test of development is not economic growth but sustainable development, which must be people centeredreduces poverty, create employment and improve living condition.

She advised Nigeria and other developing countries to ensure that everyone participates in economic and social development. She advocated the use of the banking system for de-

velopment. ‘‘Development will come not only from a state that governs well, and a private sector that provides jobs that generate income but also on civil society organisations that make political and social interactions easier and mobiles society to participate in economic, social and political activities.

NIALS Director-General Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN) praised Awah on the lecture, saying the logical arguments she presented shows she is an authority in finance law.

“It was quite professorial and befitting of an inaugural lecture. We want to commend her effort and we’re proud she’s of the institute,” he said.

Commenting on the housing problems, Azinge said: “What type of houses are we talking about? There was a time people were thinking of fabricated houses; some were even thinking of improving on mud houses.

“But has it not gotten to a point where we can perfect the mud house? People believe the mud house is good for our weather, and for our climate. So, must we still look down on mud houses?

“Can’t we configure it in a much luxurious manner that people can live in them? Maybe with that people can build more of such houses, but in a better fashion, well put-together, so that we can have more houses. We don’t all need to build block houses and duplexes and what have you.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

PAGE 29

‘How Kwara can win more laurel at Qu’ran contest’ •PAGE 30

New roads for Yobe communities

•PAGE 32

•The Matsiriga Waterfall

Kaduna’s untapped tourism potential The Matsiriga Waterfall, which is about two kilometres off Kafanchan, has the potential to be a huge revenue earner for Kaduna State. The government, TONY AKOWE writes, will boost its revenue base if the waterfall is developed into a tourist site.

R

ESIDENTS of Kafanchan in Kaduna State believe that they are sitting on a goldmine. To them, the Matsiriga Waterfall is central to the economic and social development of the state, if the government recognises its tourism and revenue earning potential.

As one approaches the waterfall which is about one kilometre from Kafanchan, one perceives loud sound from the fall. One also perceives sparkling bubbles of water flowing from atop hard rock and hitting hard at its base to form a pool that flows down the slope.

Interestingly, the waterfall is not known to many of the residents, even though the village close to it is called Matsiriga. They are familiar with the name River Wonderful and speak glowingly about the mysteries surrounding it.

The Matsiriga Waterfall is listed on the Kaduna Website as one of the many tourist sites in the state.

Apart from a dilapidated and abandoned structure and a collapsed fence, there is nothing to suggest that such a place has the potential to yield millions of dollars annually for the state.

The residents believe that the waterfall, which can easily be spotted

from the Kafanchan-MadakiyaZonkwa-Kaduna Road, has some mysteries about it as it exudes natural powers in the manner it gushes, tumbles and drops 30 metres into a still and deep gorge.

The fresh cool breeze around the waterfall is soothing. Although the waterfall is eye-catching, it lacks the finesse to attract attention as a probable place for relaxation.

An abandoned structure which supposedly served as a resort’s security post and a faded signpost suggest that previous attempts had been made to develop the area. On the other side of the fall, Madakiya Heritage Resort is

being developed by a private investor to serve as a relaxation centre.

Though no tourists or visitors were seen at the resort, some women were noticed scooping sand apparently for sale. Some youths were also seen fishing on the river.

In addition to the resort, plans by another private investor to build a fivestar hotel close to it have reached advanced stage.

The residents said the waterfall sometimes produces rainbow colours and smoke. Luka Binniyat, a journalist, told our correspondent that there was nothing mysterious about the rainbow colours formed by the waterfall.

‘There are rainbow colours produced by the waterfall. But it is merely a reflection from the sun. When the sun passes above the water, it produces rainbow colours. But the local people believe there is some mystery surrounding the waterfall’

He said: “There are rainbow colours produced by the waterfall. But it is merely a reflection from the sun. When the sun passes above the water, it produces rainbow colours. But the local people believe there is some mystery surrounding the waterfall.”

Binniyat also said most visitors to Kafanchan insist on visiting the waterfall, but they always left disappointed because the place has not been developed into a proper tourist centre.

He said: “If properly developed, it will generate huge revenue for government and create employment opportunities.”

A community leader in Matsiriga, Yohana Yakubu said many of them are amazed at the wonders of the waterfall, pointing out that sometimes, if one decides to walk along the serene environment of the stream, one will be surprised to see white smoke coming out of the pool, adding that sometimes on Sundays, a rainbow would appear on the water and stretch up to the blue sky.

He said: “As the name indicates, the waterfall is truly wonderful. For years, mysterious things have happened around the waterfall which is beyond human understanding.

•Continued on page 32

Boost for girl-child education

•PAGE 33

‘Women should be change agents’ •PAGE 34

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

30

THE NORTH REPORT

•Alhaji Alabi (second right) presenting the key of a Kia car to one of the winners Mallam Sadiq Alabi at the event. With them are other officials of the committee.

‘How Kwara can win more laurels at Qu’ran contest’

T

HE Kwara State government has been urged to support its

contingent to subsequent edition of the yearly Qur’anic Memorisation Competition to enable them perform better.

Alhaji Abdulsalam Ayilara said in Ilorin, the state capital, that such support would boost the contingent’s morale.

Ayilara urged the government to set up Quran memorisation centres with facilities as obtained in other northern states.

He noted that the success of the state contingent’s to last year’s competition was due to prayers.

He lamented the half-hearted support the committee has received from successive administrations

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

over the years, adding that such support was incapable of winning any laurels at the just-concluded National Qur’an Memorisation Competition in Jigawa State.

Speaking at the presentation of prizes to the contingent who won laurels at the competition, Ayilara said the committee “relied on Allah and prayers” for the representatives to excel at the competition, which Kaduna State won.

He said: “The kind of support we get during our preparation for the competition cannot win laurels.”

Ayilara, who donated an apartment of his house for camping of the participants, said that those who won laurels deserved better

The committee relied on Allah and prayers for the state’s representatives to excel at the competition which Kaduna State contingent won...The kind of support we get during our preparation for the competition cannot win laurels. Those who won laurels for the state in whatever category deserved better support from government and individuals support from government and individuals.

The state coordinator of the Qur’an recitation committee, Alhaji Waliullahi Kamal, regretted that the committee had not received attention it deserves since inception

28 years ago.

He urged the government to redeem its pledge of an Arabic board.

The Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Alhaji Saka Onimago, represented by the Permanent Secre-

tary in the ministry, Alhaji Abdulhamid Alabi said the participants had done the state proud despite the little support they received.

In the memorisation of twothird of the Quran and two hizbs categories, two of the participants, Sodiq Atolagbe and Hajarat imamFulani from Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state took first and second positions respectively.

Each won a Hyundai car.

They are also to represent Nigeria at the International Quran Recitation Committee billed for October in Saudi Arabia, even as they will benefit from the scholarship scheme of the Jigawa State governor Alhaji Sule Lamido whose state hosted the competition.

100 vehicles for Benue SURE-P scheme

T

HE Ibrahim Babangida Square (IBB) in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, is a popular venue for hosting local and international events.

The square hosted about 8,800 beneficiaries of the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE-P) from the 23 local government areas of the state.

During the event, Governor Suswam launched 100 vehicles comprising 50 taxis and 50 buses for the SURE-P transportation scheme.

Suswam said some beneficiaries of the programme would be employed as teachers; some as nurses and would be posted to schools and hospitals in the state.

He said 500 sportsmen and women were undergoing training in sports development.

The governor said the programme is for unemployed youths, warning that he will sanction any civil servant who takes part in the scheme.

He said: “Government has

‘Government has concluded arrangement to absorb participants of SURE-P into the public service after retirement...

Only those who performed exceptionally would be considered...100 vehicles have been procured for the initial take off, while more vehicles would be made available as the scheme grows’ From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

concluded arrangement to absorb participants of SURE-

•The taxis

P into the public service after retirement, noting that only those who performed exceptionally would be considered.”

On the transportation scheme, Governor Suswam said 100 vehicles have been procured for the initial take off, while more

vehicles would be made available as the scheme grows.

Earlier, Chairman of SURE-P Implementation Committee and the state’s Head of Service, Mr. Terna Ahua said under the Subsidy Re-investment programme, 8,800 youths have been engaged

•From right: Suswam cuts the tape for th by his Deputy Lawani and Chief Jam Gbin

and are participating in key sectors after undergoing re-orientation.

Mr. Ahua further said those engaged would soon receive letters of posting to any of the 23 local government areas of the state.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

31

THE NORTH REPORT

Taxi scheme for Niger unemployed graduates D

The Niger State government, through the Subsidy R e - i n v e s t m e n t Programme (SURE-P), has introduced an executive city taxi scheme for unemployed graduates.

Tagged “Talba City Taxi,” it will boost intra-city transportation and rekindle entrepreneurship among unemployed graduates Investigation reveals that last year, the state had over 17,000 unemployed graduates despite the graduate engagement scheme introduced some years ago by the government.

The scheme, inaugurated with brand new 100 Kia cars, will be a continuous government’s intervention to address unemployment and boost intra-state transport system.

At its inauguration, Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu said government would subsidise each car with N1 million as encouragement to beneficiaries.

A N3.4 million car was given to every beneficiary for N2.4 million, with repayment period of three years after a grace of six months.

The scheme was advertised for interested unemployed university and polytechnic graduates to apply. Applications received were subjected to thorough screening and due diligence by the directorate of SURE-P after which100 applicants were successful for the first phase of the scheme.

At present, the cars ply major roads of Minna, the Niger State capital driven by those who were unemployed graduates.

For Usman Maigari a 2011 graduate of Estate Management from Federal University of Technology, Minna the graduate city taxi scheme was a dream realised.

He said: “After the service year, I had submitted numerous application letters for employment in both public and private sectors without any success. It got to a point that I got fed up because I have what it takes to be employed but no job came my way. I even lost hope in the system. I have to

•Maigari From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

depend on people around for my livelihood.

“When I got a phone call that I was one of the successful applicants for the Talba City Taxi Graduate Scheme, I was very happy, especially when I was asked to come for my car. This scheme was all I needed to break the jinx of joblessness. Today, my status has changed from an unemployed graduate to an executive taxi driver.”

On whether driving a cab was not too demeaning for a graduate, Maigari said: “No, it is not demeaning. I was taught entrepreneurship in the university; I know the importance of self-reliance and to be an employer of labour. Driving a N3.4 million is not demeaning.

“As a graduate from a humble background, how would I have raised such money to buy this kind

•Bawa

‘When I got a phone call that I was one of the successful applicants for the Talba City Taxi Graduate Scheme, I was very happy, especially when I was asked to come for my car. This scheme was all I needed to break the jinx of joblessness. Today, my status has changed from an unemployed graduate to an executive taxi driver’ of car? I am very proud of being an executive taxi driver. I make returns to myself. I command respect even from the commuters because majority of them know that we are not just drivers but owners of our cars and they accord us some respect. The experience is awesome.”

Commending the state government and SURE-P for helping them

become self-reliant, Maigari said: “I am very grateful to the governor for coming up with the scheme. Within few weeks of operation my life has changed. I no longer look up to people for support, rather people come to me for assistance.

“I have resolved to ensure that the car is always maintained.

The Zamfara State Zakat Foundation has given N100, 000 each to 3,450 less-privileged people in Gusau, the state capital. The event was held at the Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Muhammed Kabir Danbaba’s palace. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO writes

H

or the SURE-P taxi scheme. He is assisted Gbinde

He said the beneficiaries were lucky, even as he advised them to make optimal use of the opportunity.

High point of the event was cutting of the tape by Governor Suswam to launch the 100 vehicles for the scheme.

Zakat Foundation’s N340m lifts 3,450

AJIA Habiba lost her husband a year ago. Another tragedy struck when her shop was gutted by fire. She lost virtually everything. Her world crashed. But when hopes seemed lost, benevolence smiled on her. She was selected by the Zamfara Zakat Foundation as one of this year’s beneficiaries of the Zakat given out twice a year by Governor Azeez Abubakar Yari.

On January 7, she was among the 3,450 needy in Zamfara State that received N100, 000 each. The gesture was part of proceeds from the state’s Zakat Foundation to help beneficiaries carry on with their vocations and businesses.

The event held at the Emir’s Palace and was attended by top government functionaries, religious leaders, traditional rulers and other dignitaries within and outside the state.

The palace square was filled to its capacity as children and adults climbed the fence and roof top just to catch a glimpse of the event. Recipients had gathered in their numbers as early as 7:00 in the morning.

Governor Yari, who presented the gifts to the recipients revealed in Gusau that government distributed N345 million as Zakat to 3,450 needy people in the state in line with Qur’anic injunction. He said 15 beneficiaries were carefully selected from each of the 230 districts of the 17 emirate councils and each person received N100, 000 to start a business.

Yari said the amount shared represents two per cent deduction from all contracts given by the state government during the year.

“The balance of such deductions would be invested in business ventures by the board to generate more money to assist the needy in setting up businesses, arranging marriages and supporting medical bills. The state government intends to distribute the Zakat twice in a year.

“Government will take serious measures against those who default in remitting their Zakat to the board.’’

He stated that the programme was aimed at reducing the level of poverty among the less-privileged indi-

•Yari

viduals in the society.

The governor reiterated government’s readiness to use the state Zakat and Endowment Programme to reduce poverty among the less-privileged people. He urged the beneficiaries to utilise the gifts for the purpose they were meant for.

He also re-affirmed his administration’s willingness to continue empowering the needy in order to alleviate poverty, even as he called on wealthy individuals in the state to continue support the Zakat board to enable it to improve on its people-oriented programmes.

Governor Yari urged all well-meaning individuals to emulate the gesture exhibited by government towards ameliorating the suffering of the lessprivileged people in the society.

Farmers trained on fabrication, blacksmithing From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

A

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM) has organised a training programme for young Nigerians living in the rural areas on tool fabrication and blacksmithing.

Agriculture Minister, Dr Adewunmi Adesina said at the start of training for states in the Southwest geo-political zone at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM) in Idofian Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State that the trainees would be exposed to making a decent living from the non-agricultural sector.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Ibukun Odusote, Adesina said the training would help “in breaking the vicious cycle of poverty among the rural dwellers.”

He said: “It is obvious that when the non-farm sector is encouraged and supported, it is likely to boost employment opportunity in rural settings, apart from food production.”

The minister also said the training would enhance the agricultural transformation agenda of the government, saying “the rural youths are trained in skills to fabricate domestic/industrial parts for the production of farm tools to support our dominant rural farmers in their food production efforts.”

He revealed that the ministry would put in place monitoring mechanism to ensure sustainability of the programme through performance evaluation of those trained.

Adesina, who said other people would also benefit from the training in the future, urged the participants to take the training seriously.

“I appeal to the trainees to take the training, particularly, the practical aspect of the workshop seriously as it will definitely expose you to designs, drawings and fabrications that will be useful to you and drive the needed transformation of our rural areas,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Director of Department of Rural Development of the ministry, M.O. Azeez said reliance on food production aspect of agriculture as the only key for rural development had hindered the scope for a multi-sectoral and integrated approach to rural development programme. He expressed hope that the training programme would make the approach more functional.

He revealed that each of the trainees would be presented with a starter package to enable him practise what he has learnt.

The training would help in breaking the vicious cycle of poverty among the rural dwellers…It is obvious that when the non-farm sector is encouraged and supported, it is likely to boost employment opportunity in rural settings, apart from food production

32

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT

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New roads for Yobe communities

IFE is changing for the better in Yobe State. The government is opening up the rural areas through the construction of feeder and major roads to link villages, local governments and major towns in the state. Residents are happy at this development; so also is the governor, Ibrahim Gaidam who spoke on the issue.

For Governor Ibrahim Gaidam, his idea of providing roads linking villages, local government and other major towns in the state was basically to fulfil his campaign promises to the people of the state. He said: “Our road development policy is a deliberate and strategic one because good road network is an important complement to our improved transport system. It is also indispensable for the transportation of goods and services from the rural settlements to the major markets centres and enhanced social interaction between our citizens and people from other parts of the country”..

For 51- year- old Mohammadu Modu, from Yunusari Village, the home place of the governor, the newly constructed 45km road that passes through their village would do more than social interaction and the transportation of goods to markets for the people.

Modu who tapped this reporter on his back as he tried to get the picture of the village from an elevated heap of sand-dunes simply noted that “this road would save more lives in the community now than what it used to be”.

Modu rhetorically asked the reporter: “do you know how many women and children that have died in this community because of lack of good road that we now have?”, as the duo engaged into a deep conversation. ”We have suffered so much in this area for lack of a good road. Many of our women have died for lack of prompt medical attention for lack of road. Before, it was our camels, donkeys and horses that we used to carry our women and children to hospital.

Many of them died even before getting to the hospital because of such mode of transportation.

“In the past, you would have to get to Bayamari before you could see a car because not many of them could come here except some big jeeps. How many of us have jeeps in this village”, Modu asked.

Investigation revealed that prior to the construction of the road; accessing good medical care was a far cry as villagers must have to travel on the sandy

•One of the newly constructed roads in Kanamma

•Governor Gaidam addressing people at the Gaidam-Maino-Sorowa-Yunusari Junction.

From Duku JOEL, Damaturu

Sahara road to Bayamari for over two hours before deciding to either go to Gaidam or Gashua or even Damaturu, the state capital for better medical treatment.

A situation Modu recall as “nightmarish and frustrating” especially when a woman is in labour.

“We used to waste like say two hours. That is with a car to Bayamri.

But if you are using like say a donkey or camel, it is as good as you are trekking and that would consume a lot of time before you get to Bayamari. But look at us now. With this road, you will get to Bayamari and Geidam or Gashua in good time for treatment.

“Many people don’t know that what

Ibrahim Gaidam has done to this community has a very positive impact on the people in the future. For me, this road is life!” Modu concluded.

Kawu Amadu is a middle aged man that manages a provision store just at the shoulders of the new road. In his views, business has never been the same since that road was constructed.

“Going to the market is no longer difficult for us here in Yunusari like in the past. With this road, I still go to the market and come back and make sales before the end of the day. But that was not the case in the past. In the past, I would have to spend the whole day to either go to Gashua or Gaidam to buy my goods and that day cannot be useful for me again because of the time wasted due to bad road. I go to the

market three times a week now and my stock is always full”, Kawu informed.

Kawu Modu also informed that the trans-saharan road which links about six local governments in northern Yobe under construction by the government of Ibrahim Gaidam will ginger-up the economic activities of the entire northern Yobe, while Modu on his part, believe that many communities would have easy access to better medical care after the completion of the road.

Everyone who follows the governor on the one week tour will only draw one conclusion that the large turn-out of locals to welcome the governor at every point was a clear indication of the acceptance of his road

policy and other life changing policies of his administration.

At the scenic town of Gadaka in Fika Local Government Area, the colourful reception by school children beautifully filled on the newly constructed Maiduwa-Gadaka road gave the young a closer feel of their governor as he gently but gleefully wave to the children from his bullet proof Jeep through a crowded community that stretched over 2km cheering to the governor.

As part of his resolve at commitment to road construction in the state, Gov. Gaidam at the grand flaggingoff ceremony of the 77km DamaturuBuni Gari Magza, Yobe/Borno Boarder road, one of the Federal roads under the funding of the Yobe state Government after neglect by the Federal Government disclosed that his administration expended a total of N15 billion on road construction in the state, while the sum of over N16 billion is voted for capital expenditure for roads construction in the 2014 budget.

He said that his administration is currently constructing a total of 870km stretch of roads and 30.2km of drainages out of which 322kms have been completed while 542kms are ongoing.

One other very important road under construction by the Ibrahim Gaidam led administration is the Trans.Sahara road which is divided in three phases: phase one of the road which is about 55km begins from Kanamma-Kafiya, the second phase is Kafiya-Yusufari-20km while the last phase is Yunusari-Yusufari which covers a distance of 50km. The 58km Nguru Machina road and many others.

Explaining the policy trust of the government on road construction, the Hon. Commissioner for Works in the state Lawan Shettima informed that the government of Yobe observed that the state only had two tarred roads from Yola to Biu through Damaturu – Gashua-Nguru to Kano while the other one was the Kano Maiduguri high way which also passes through Damaturu.

Speaking on the quality of the roads, Lawan Shettima said: “whenever you are saddled with the responsibility that concerns people’s lives, you have to be careful. When engineers make mistakes, it affects the lives of so many people. We put this in mind and ensure that both our engineers and contractor don’t compromise the quality of job they are expected to execute. Any where we found a contractor wanting, he must correct it or face the music.

Kaduna’s untapped tourism potential •Continued from page 29 “For over 30 years I have lived here, no one has explained why these things happen. Sometimes the fall puffs up smoke, precisely at the entrance of the cave. The most intriguing mystery is that, on several occasions, mostly on Sundays, a rainbow would appear on the water and rise up to the sky. That is not all. There is something weird about the waterfall.

“From what I heard and witnessed, at least 10 people have died inside the river but none of them is a native.”

Yohana further said at the bottom of the rock, there is a 500-meter long cave while at the peak of the rainy season, the stream overflows and covers the cave. “The weather here is also different from what obtains in other towns and villages. Though the weather around Kafanchan, Kwoi and Kagoro is generally clement, it is usually cooler around the ‘river wonderful.’”

Another resident, Blessing Duniya said she is inspired by the serene nature of the environment, adding that sometimes, she takes time out, especially during break period to visit the waterfall and appreciate its beauty. “I just can’t stop marvelling at the great wonders of God,” she said.

Duniya regretted that despite its potential as huge revenue earner, government refuses to tap the abundant resources it boasts. She, however, expressed optimism that the place will be put to proper use in future.

She said: “The location of the waterfall is good, just by the roadside. But there is no access road to it and no form of beautification to make the place attractive to visitors who may want to enjoy its natural coolness and beauty.

“I would love to see people come here, feel its natural beauty and make it bubbly. Our lively towns have been ruined by ethno-religious crisis but I’m honestly hoping that, with natural endowments such as this, our towns will bounce back to life.”

Apart from Matsiriga Waterfall, there is Awatsung Waterfall located at Madakiya, a neighbouring town to Matsiriga. A resident, Dogara Yunana noted that people swim and fish on the Awatsung Waterfall during the dry season, even as students go for picnics at the Matsiriga Waterfall.

“In the rainy season, everybody engages in farming but once it’s October, fishing begins,” Yunana said.

Many residents are not happy that the tourism potential of the waterfalls

‘In order to exploit the benefit of tourism in Southern Kaduna, there is need for adequate inventory of the available tourism potential/ resources based on priorities. It is sad that the state and the local governments where such potential are deposited are either ignorant of the benefits of developing those potential or rather not willing to invest in them’ has largely remained untapped. They said they could generate huge revenue for Kaduna State in particular and Nigeria in general.

Experts in tourism believe that utilising the potential in these tourists’ sites could solve the unemployment

•The Matsiriga Waterfall

problem in the state, since tourism requires the services of skilled, semiskilled and unskilled workers.

The closeness of the Matsiriga Waterfall to Kagoro, venue of the popular annual Afam Festival, the Nok Cultural Centre and its easy accessibility by rail and road, makes it plausible tourist delight if developed.

According to experts, with its unique history and numerous annual cultural festivals, Southern Kaduna could be the ideal destination for lovers of eco-tourism, wildlife, cultural and heritage sites, religious rites, amusement, entertainment and leisure, adventure, outdoor and indoor sports tourism and meetings, among others.

A resident, Habila Kayit said: “When you talk about notable tourist attrac-

tions in Nigeria, West Africa and Africa at large, Southern Kaduna deserves more than a mention. This is because I’ve gone round some of the sites.

“In order to exploit the benefits of tourism in Southern Kaduna, there is need for adequate inventory of the available tourism potential/resources based on priorities. It is sad that the state and the local governments where such resources are deposited are either ignorant of the benefits that could be derived from developing those sites or are not willing to invest in them.

“Malaysia, Kenya, Dubai, South Africa, Israel and Saudi Arabia, among others, depend so much on tourism as their major source of revenue and have created a niche market for their tourism products.”

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

Page 33

•Noble Hall Academy

Boost for girl-child education W

omen’s problems seem to begin from infancy.

Either that parents, in line with societal requirement, prefer boys to ensure continuity in the lineage, or they believe more on his education to the detriment of the girl child. This places her at a disadvantage even up to adulthood.

Gender activists have always regarded this as discrimination against the women folk and have said women should be empowered through education.

Crusaders for women empowerment maintain that the objective of making women realise their potential could be achieved only through genuine commitment to the education of the girl child.

As a result of this, some school proprietors have decided to devote their schools’ programme of study to the education of the girl child.

One of such proprietors is Mrs Mariam Mutallab Duba, the founder of Noble Hall School Abuja who runs an all-girls secondary school.

She said her decision was borne out of the need to nurture girls for leadership role in the 21 Century.

In a chat with our correspondent, she said the school has a vi-

From Bukola Amusan

sion of enriching girls’ lives through holistic world-class education that will develop leaders of tomorrow.

“We also aim at providing a firstclass educational environment for girls, create new cadre of female leaders, equip girls with the required knowledge and skills and strong family values to influence change in Nigeria and Africa,” she said.

At the main site of the school located at the Idu Industrial District of the city, Mrs Duba said while construction work is ongoing, the school is scheduled to be inauguration next month.

Two private institutions, the Nigeria Turkish Nile University and the Baze University are also located in the area.

On the structural design of the school, she said the two-storey academic building has first-rate facilities.

“The staff office carries an ambience that makes one work and work.

It has 20 classrooms, eight laboratories and a library.

“The library, which is online, has resources covering both e-books and physical books. Behind the academic building is a horticulture garden.

•Students of Noble Hall School in a study session

‘The school has a vision of enriching girls’ lives through holistic world-class education that will develop leaders of tomorrow...We also aim at providing a first-class educational environment for girls, create new cadre of female leaders, equip girls with the required knowledge and skills and strong family values to influence change in Nigeria and Africa’ “The two-storey hostel has a common room, 24 units with two dor-

mitories each and a basement for laundry. Each dormitory has three

bathrooms, three toilets and three box rooms. Attached to the dormitory is a kitchenette. Each unit has a common area apart from the main one at the entrance of each floor.

“The auditorium, with its below-the-surface walkway, is a demonstration of architectural sophistication.

“The large dining building with conical roof and a multi-purpose hall has capacity for 500. The teachers’ quarters look cute just as the sporting complex attracts even non-athletes,” she said.

Mr Stewart Cowden, the Principal of the school said management looks forward to producing a premier institution in the whole of Africa in the next three years.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

34

ABUJA REVIEW

•Some of the women jogging

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‘Women should be change agents’

ENULTIMATE week, women in Nigeria joined the rest of the world to celebrate the International Women’s Day. The event which is marked on March 8 every year was set aside by the United Nations to respect, show appreciation and love to women for their economic, political and social achievements.

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day was: “Equality for Women is Progress for All.” Women in the nation’s capital were not left out of the celebration. They were treated to free fitness and aerobic exercises organised by Biobak Eat and Burn; Gym Centre. The event was tagged: “Fit woman; Fit Nation.”

The women, who gathered at the entrance of Gaduwa Estate, Gudu District in Abuja took part in a road walk from the estate to Games Village. For two hours, the women were put through various fitness exercises by instructors.

Experts presented fitness and awareness talks. The participants, numbering over 50, were urged to exercise and maintain a physical fitness, look fit, in order to keep a daily healthy lifestyle. There were also talks on weight loss, among others.

The exercise lasted one week.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

From Frank Ikpefan

of the company, Mrs. Abiodun Mojisola Obakin, in a chat with our correspondent said the free fitness walk, one week free fitness/aerobic programme, fitness and wellness seminar and free online newsletter for those in attendance, was meant to inspire and encourage Nigerian women.

“Our goal is to encourage and empower women to make better lifestyle decisions that include healthy eating and regular physical activity. For there to be a nation, there has to be a fit woman. That is why we are celebrating Nigerian women by tagging the event Fit woman: Fit Nation. This is because for you to achieve a healthy living, you must engage in physical activities. When you eat well, exercise well, the person will be fine,” she said.

‘We are poised to effect change in our society to better the lot of other women. Wherever women find themselves, they should try to add values to the lives of the people around them. If you educate a woman, you educate a nation. If a woman is healthy, the entire family and nation will be healthy’ Mrs. Obakin urged women to find time to engage themselves in physical exercise. Excuse, she said, should not be used to avoid exercises, even as she urged women to be committed to keeping fit through regular exercise.

She said: “One of the ways women can do better is to come out and get fit. Exercise is becoming a necessity.

When you eat, it is a must to do exercise. Therefore, doing some exercise

in any form, in any way, even starting from a little walk about or walk around in your house for 15 to 20 minutes is exercise.

“We want our women to come out of the dungeon and belong. When you are fit, you will go to your place of work and do your best. When you are fit, you will be able to take care of your family. When you are fit, you will be able to be change agent in whatever area you find yourself. So,

let us have some little exercise so that we will be more active and do better.”

On how women in the rural areas could benefit from such event, Mrs Obakin said: “Actually, we have series of programmes that we want to do subsequently,” adding: “We want to reach out to them by networking.

We have a programme that mentors.

We want to go into villages, into the rural areas to encourage women to appreciate the value of life.

“We are planning to mentor, we are planning to educate. We are planning to do a kind of networking whereby every woman, no matter her level of education will come around and identify with.”

Former Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation, Mrs. Omotayo Omotosho participated in the exercise. She urged women to inspire change in the society.

“We are poised to effect change in our society to better the lot of other women. Wherever women find themselves, they should try to add values to the lives of the people around them.

If you educate a woman, you educate a nation. If a woman is healthy, the entire family and nation will be healthy,” she said.

FCTA spends N635m on free medication

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HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has spent N635 million on programmes relevant to lives of women and children dwelling in the rural areas.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Mohammed made this known while flagging off this year’s Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week at the Gwarinpa District Hospital, Abuja.

He said the programmes included free antenatal care, free medical treatment for children under five years and distribution of long lasting insecticide-treated nets to households.

Mohammed said: “For these schemes, we have procured and distributed life-saving drugs like Mebendazole, anti-malaria, desolate, folic acid, antibiotics and oral rehydration salts to 248 health facilities spread across the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory.”

While noting the FCT Administration’s achievements in

‘For these schemes, we have procured and distributed life-saving drugs like Mebendazole, anti-malaria, desolate, folic acid, antibiotics and oral rehydration salts to 248 health facilities spread across the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory’ From Gbenga Omokhunu and Grace Obike

the healthcare sector, Senator Mohammed reiterated his administration’s commitment to achieve more because of his belief that there is always room for improvement.

The minister restated that Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week has been packaged by the FCT Administration as a way of delivering interventions that have been proven to be cost-effective, good quality, impactful and result-oriented for good health of mothers and

children.

He remarked that the theme for the celebration was “A Package for a Lifetime of Better Health for the Family” with the slogan “A package of care for healthy family.” This will ensure full participation of all residents.

In order to make it impactful and beneficial to the people at the grassroots, Senator Mohammed therefore directed that the initiative be celebrated in all the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory.

He further directed that celebrations in the six area councils should be focused extensively on activities that

will create awareness and facilitybased service delivery that targets women and children.

The FCT Minister of State, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide said, to ensure the success of the programme, about 3,000 trained health workers would be deployed to provide quality primary healthcare in at least 248 health facilities and 496 outreach sites spread across the FCT. She said last year, the FCT Administration introduced Community Health Insurance Scheme in 30 communities of the FCT to improve healthcare delivery services and access for the residents.

The FCT Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretariat, Dr. Ademola Onakomaiya said the FCT Administration under the leadership of Senator Mohammed, is passionately committed to engendering improved health for women and children in the FCT regardless of where they are from.

Onakomaiya solicited the participation and involvement of all stake-

•FCT Minister, Mohammed

holders, especially members of the organised private sector as well as development partners in all health activities.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

35

ABUJA REVIEW

•From left: Vice-President Namadi Sambo (second right), Health Minister, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu (left), Managing Director Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Stella Okoli (third right), Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Glory Opusunju-Nene at the Presidential Summit on Universal Health Coverage at the Banquet Hall, State House Abuja.

PHOTO : AKIN OLADOKUN

•From left: Resident Country Director, National Democratic Institute, Jasper Veen, Director General, Peoples Democratic Institute, Dr. Lanre Adebayo and Programme Coordinator, Government and Government Agencies Williams Aroh during the Resident Country Director's visit to the office of the National Democratic Institute Abuja.

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

•From left: Country Representative, Institute of Cultural Diplomacy, Berlin Dickson Osa Omoregie, Deputy Director, Information Yeseinde Shebioba and Special Adviser to the President on Ethics and Values Dr, Sarah Jubril, during the briefing on ECOWAS Roundtable on Ethics and Values at the Secretary to the Government of theFederation PHOTO :AKIN OLADOKUN ‘s Conference Room, Federal Secretariat Abuja.

•Drummers entertaining visitors at the Niger City Gate in Minna

•From left: President Southeast / Southsouth Professionals of Nigeria Emaka Ugwu-Oju;Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha; Chairman Southeast Caucus in the House of Representatives,Hon Ogbuefi Ozongbachi and Chairman Southsouth Caucus in the House of Representatives,Hon Warman Weri Ogoriba during their visit to National Assembly Abuja.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

•Social Democratic Party Chairman Chief Olu Falae (second right) displaying the party's manifesto with the National Secretary, Dr. Sadiq Abubakar (fourth left); Third Republic Senator, Senator Ebenezer Ikeyina (right); Party Leader, Chief Supo Sonibare (third left); SDP Chairman Ondo State, Chief Korede Duyile (secondleft) and the National Treasurer, Nze Clarkson Nnadi (left) during the public presentation of the SDP Symbols at the Party Headquarters, Durumi Abuja.

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

•Director of Tourism, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Mrs. Elegbede Adebola (left); Minister of State for FCT Olajumoke Akinjide, Director-General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) Mrs. Sally Mbanefo and a member of the board of NTDC, Mrs. Miriam Onuoha during the corporation's visit to PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE the minister in Abuja.

•From left: Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mohammed Adoke, Minister of State for Niger Delta Development Darious Isiaku, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and Minister of State for Agriculture Laraba Asmau during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) Meeting at the Council Chambers, PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN Presidential Villa, Abuja.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

36

ABUJA REVIEW

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VERY YEAR, Nigeria continues to lose huge sums of money when her citizens travel abroad for medical attention.

While the actions of some of these Nigerians can be justified because of lack of standard equipment or personnel for the particular medical service needed by the individual, others simply prefer the services abroad as they do not want to risk their lives in the course of being handled by local medics.

In 2012, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) said Nigeria lost $500 million on annual medical tourism by Nigerians abroad.

The NMA President, Dr. Osahon Enabulele had maintained that over 5,000 Nigerians travel out every month to India, Egypt and Ghana to treat ailments that could mostly be handled in Nigeria.

"Indeed, it has been shown that India earns over $260 million from medical tourism from Nigeria alone," he said.

He specifically challenged Nigerian political office holders to go beyond lip-service in order to change the story in Nigeria.

Challenging politicians in 2012, he said: "Indeed, the NMA is convinced that if President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Vice-President Namadi Sambo, the Senate President, Senator David Mark, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, members of the Federal Executive Council, Governors, Deputy Governors, and other political office holders, make it a point of duty to stand on the same queue with ordinary Nigerians to seek medical care and conduct health checks in public hospitals in Nigeria, the confidence of ordinary Nigerians and foreigners in Nigeria's healthcare system will be re-ignited and bolstered."

But almost two years after the call, nothing seems to have changed in Nigeria's healthcare system.

Speaking at the Presidential Summit on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja Monday last week, President Goodluck Jonathan, through the Vice-President Namadi Sambo, further lamented the capital flight arising from medical tourism of Nigerians abroad.

He said: "We still have the largest number of people in Africa and the developed world travelling out of the country to seek healthcare services. The scale of capital flight lost to medical tourism is enormous, not justifiable and needs to be speedily addressed for the survival and development of our local health practitioners and indus-

Ending Nigerians' medical tourism abroad ‘We still have the largest number of people in Africa and the developed world travelling out of the country to seek healthcare services.

The scale of capital flight lost to medical tourism is enormous, not justifiable and needs to be speedily addressed for the survival and development of our local health practitioners and industry’ try.

"Government is not unaware of the numerous challenges limiting the attainment of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in our country and the importance of political commitment in surmounting these chal-

From the Villa

By Augustine Ehikioya lenges.

"The World Bank's case study of 11 countries that have made significant progress in UHC, affirmed that political leadership and commitment is the key driving force for achieving UHC." Speaking at the summit, the Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, citing the successes being recorded in his state, urged government to go beyond lip-service and show the necessary political will needed to attain universal health coverage in the country.

According to him, due to political will, his state is recording success in a programme called 'Abiye' for safe motherhood, which is done

in partnership with the World Bank.

He said: "The programme essentially is about tracing every pregnant woman from conception to delivery, using very simple modern methods. We also trace them to the communities through primary healthcare provider. We have been doing all of this and completely eliminating financial barriers through budgetary allocation, through pooling of funds from partners.

"Strengthening the core system is also very important because no matter how much you put into the system, if the health system is not strengthened and accountable, you may not get the output you desire.

"In two years of 'Abiye', we were able to increase percentage of attendance by more than 80 per cent. By now, it must be over 1,000 per cent. We were able to reduce the unit cost of care. The cost of taking care of a pregnant woman has been reduced to N4, 000, including caesarean delivery. That means if I give you N40, 000, I'm expecting 10 live babies. It is costbased analysis; you can measure your outcome.

"That means that if you eliminate financial barriers, if you engender confidence in the core system, what you spend to take care of each patient goes down. The cost you incur in complications gets reduced.

"It will also interest you, Mr. President, that in four years, facility-based figures, with clear empirical evidence, we were able to reduce maternal mortality rate by more than 70 per cent. What that means is that with political will, with the necessary backings and technology, we can achieve universal health coverage. "It is not all about money; it is about effective and efficient management of resources that we have. What we need is political will, effective and efficient modernisation of our health system."

Residents urged to immunise their children From Gbenga Omokhunu

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•Overall winners at the Pacesetter Academy’s inter-house sport competition jubilating after the competition in PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE Abuja.

HE Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Hon. Micah Jiba has advised residents of the area to ensure that children between zero and five years are immunised against all child killer diseases during the current exercise.

The council chief spoke while flagging off Immunisation Plus Day at Angwuan Hausawa in Damagaza Village. He said there was need for co-operation from every stakeholder in the council in order to ensure the success of this year’s immunisation exercise.

He further said since the council has attained 85 per cent success in the fight against polio last year, there was need to sustain and exceed the success this year.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Primary Healthcare Development Board (PHCDB), Dr. Rilwan Mohammed, appealed to the Federal Government to enact a law to prevent landlords from building houses without toilet facilities.

Mohammed advised individuals and organisations to ensure that they make toilet facilities major component of their houses.

According to him, any corporate organisation that plans to construct a place of leisure or celebrations must also include toilet facilities, saying that at the Millennium Park, there are no toilet facilities while in Wonderland, there are very few toilet facilities.

“It is not proper that such places do not have toilet facilities. Any child that is pressed would defecate anywhere. That is why we are having outbreak of diseases like polio in Nigeria. There should be adequate toilet facilities for people’s conveniences.

“I also appeal to the communities to make sure that their children are immunised in this round of the exercise and that of April,” he said.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

LAW PERSONALITY Mr. Victor Nwaugo is a former Legal Adviser to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and member of its National Executive Committee (NEC) since 2006. He speaks on the forthcoming National Conference, NBA elections, security of lives and property in the country and other sundry issues in this interview with Legal Editor, JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU

No civilised society can develop without an efficient Judiciary H

OW do you react to Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)’s decision in opting out of the National Conference on basis of allocating a slot to the association at the confab?

The President of the Bar is the spokesperson for the association. So, the decision to back out was taken by the President of the Bar and ratified by NEC in Ekiti State, which is in order.

However, the Bar could have backed out from the so called conference on so many grounds. I read the content of the text of the President of the Bar threatening to back out of the conference on the basis of the number of allotment of representatives. To tell the truth, the Bar President was begging to be allotted more persons to represent NBA and expectedly, Dr Goodluck Jonathan ignored him. At the President’s media chat last month, President Jonathan took the shine off the NBA President when he said the association should have articulated its position for one or two of its members to present same during the conference. If Jonathan’s position is proper, why did he allow more than one representative for each state? Each state should have articulated their position for one representative or two to present same before the conference. Yet, about 30 persons are representing the southeast, which is about six persons per state.

The government considers the present NBA leadership to be weak; therefore, the Bar can not talk or work their talk. If it were in the golden years of Alao Aka-Bashorun; T. J. N. Okpoko (SAN); O.C.J. Okocha (SAN); Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Prince Lanke Odigiyon; Olisa Agbakoba (SAN); Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and J.B Dandu (SAN) , NBA would have been begged to accept five representatives. But now, the NBA is like an elephant, one can only tell the story from his or her own view point. We have lawyers in the media; lawyers in litigation; lawyers in the military; lawyers in the corporate world; Human Rights lawyers; lawyers for the Bench; young lawyers’ forum; female lawyers and none can properly present the view point of the other.

What are your expectations from the Confab?

My expectation from the National Conference is that money would be passed round. People will talk and all their articulations will be consigned on top of other heap of talks by past administrations to gather dust. I don’t think President Jonathan is sincere in his proposal for a national conference. I see it as wanting to play the North against the South, Christians against Muslims, Igbo against Hausa, minority against the majority, all for the purpose of gaining advantage for his election in 2015. I hope Nigerians will see it from this angle and be cautious not to be fooled. Any president who really desires to lay foundation for a true Nigeria will table all issues for discussion when he does not have ambition for a re-election. This National Conference is an after thought from a politician who is desperate to be re-elected.

The relationship between the Aba branch of the NBA and Abia State government has not been cordial. What are your problems with the state government?

Well, it appears that an understanding is trying to evolve, the General Secretary of NBA, Emeka Obegolu J.P, has waded into the matter. You know, Obegolu is a humble and likable fellow. I hope both parties will give him the maximum support to settle the matter. We expect the Governor and the Attorney-General, Hon. Umeh Kalu to let NBA Aba recover all the lost grounds in terms of the largesse the government gave to other branches of NBA in Abia State during the period of the face off. I tell you, Aba Bar will battle against anyone, who unjustly goes against T.A Orji in future, whether he is still in government or not.

Aba Bar fights injustices for all.

This is an election year for the NBA, what type of president do you envisage?

The Bar by virtue of Articles 7.3 and 10 (a) of the constitution of the NBA, as amended in 2009, shall in a delegate conference on July 2014 elect national officers for a single term of two years.

In other words, there will be a delegate conference for the purpose of electing new officers to

take over from the incumbent Okey Wali (SAN) led administration. First, I look forward to seeing our delegates resist an imposition of candidates by any person or group of persons. I urge our delegates to vote for a person who is experienced in the running and workings of NBA secretariat. A person who will see himself only as a senior prefect among his other elected officers and not an emperor on a kingdom.

I look forward to seeing an NBA President who will stand to fight government’s bad policies.

The last democrat to govern NBA was Olisa Agbakoba (SAN). I expect a president who will use part of our practicing fees to invest in health insurance for lawyers, more especially now that the practising fees have been increased. I expect a president who will connect with the owners of the association being her members. I expect a president whose words will remain his bond. I don’t want a ”I know it all” president. I am looking forward to a listening president, God help NBA. What is the way out of the security challenges facing the country, especially in the Northern parts of the country?

The security challenges in Nigeria generally and Northeast in particular is worrisome. The government has not really given a well deserved attention to it. Government should, as a matter of necessity, stop using the security challenges to play politics. Let government, with all reports available to it, inform Nigerians that Boko Haram is a pure religious war and not politically motivated. Government should tell Nigerians the truth and not try to profit from the unfortunate situation to curry the favour of southern part of Nigeria as if it is a war by the North against Jonathan’s government.

There is the need to properly educate Nigerians on evils of Boko Haram so that the ordinary person in the affected area will see members of the sect as criminals. It has to be a total condemnation by both Christians, Muslims, Southern and Northern Nigeria. It can only be condemned by all when the government properly informs the people and carry them along and not to make the Igbos feel that Boko Haram was established to fight Jonathan’s government. Nigerians should read 9/11 report headed by Henry Kessinger to understand the message of these criminals called Boko Haram sect.

The 1999 constitution is continuously being amended by the National Assembly, which areas of the constitution would you like amended?

Well, no matter how you amend the constitution, it needs proper and normal human beings to operate it. For instance, when immunity clause was inserted to protect a governor from unnecessary distraction by way of litigations and frivolous criminal petitions did anybody know that a governor will hide under that to loot the treasury of the state? Sections 84 (2) (4) (7), 121 (3), 124 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution properly provided for fiscal autonomy of the third arm of government, yet those sections of the constitution are observed in the breach. Section 7 (1) guarantees democratically elected local government councils. Yet, only Enugu and Lagos States have respected that section by conducting local government election while the others find time to use caretaker committee to run the local government.

Again, Section 162 (5) provided that amount standing to the credit of local government councils in the Federation Account shall be allocated to the states for the benefit of their local government council. Yet, the states latch unto the funds and deal with it to their benefit. In the face of the functions donated by constitution to the local governments in the fourth schedule to the constitution, the states still breach and usurp the functions through states agencies.

On March 3, this year, a High Court in Aba

‘

•Nwaugo presided over by Justice C.C.T Adiele stood firm to declare an obnoxious law in Abia State known as Abia State of Nigeria Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development Fund Law illegal and gave restraining orders against the Board, C.J, revenue court and the police from arresting, detaining or trying anybody on account of that law for non payment of the said Infrastructural Levy. The case is suit No. A/243/2012 Mrs. Pamela N. Nwaugo & 7ors vs. Board of Trustees of Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development Fund and 7 ors. He has played his part in enthroning democracy; we are expected to play ours.

What are you are trying to make?

The major area in freeing Nigeria to be a democratic and republican state is through resource control and derivative principle. Let Enugu mine her coal, let Rivers refine her oil, let Lagos be in charge of their ports and pay royalty to the federal government. The headquarters of all ministries should not be concentrated in Abuja. Let Customs headquarters be sited in Owerri, let there be a dry port in Isiala Ngwa. That is the real amendment that will be meaningful.

What suggestions would you give the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as it prepares for the next year general elections?

The Independent National Electorate Commission (INEC) owes Nigerians the duty to organise a clean, proper and acceptable election free from instructions from “ Oga at the top”.

INEC must ensure that the right persons are recruited as ad-hoc staff. I propose Rev Fathers in Catholic areas; Anglican priests in some areas; lawyers with recommendation from their association; corps members for NYSC; Imams, Christians and Moslem clerics, and journalists from reputable independent media houses. The idea of using teachers should end because they are government paid workers. Again, INEC should plan for staggered elections. The election of the president and National Assembly should not be in a day. Even that of president should not be in a day.

INEC can choose two states from each geopolitical zone in a day to avoid band wagon effect where it starts with a particular zone so that presidential and gubernatorial elections will be announced in a day spanning over three weeks of voting. Because of inadequate security personnel, INEC should stagger the election.

Politicians should not be allowed to influence choice of ad-hoc staff. This is one area INEC staff must stand against. I even advise INEC that it is possible to customise the ballot papers and result sheets that only a voter can validly use his/ her ballot paper by having his/her name inscribed on a ballot paper meant for that voter so that where another thumb prints another’s ballot paper, by bio-metrics finger print system, it will be dictated. Please INEC, let the votes of Nigerians count. Never should the Anambra example come up again in our lives.

How do we fast track administration of justice in the country?

The slow pace of justice is a serious concern to every right thinking man because the mark in determining a people’s rank in civilisation is how

The Independent National Electorate Commission (INEC) owes Nigerians the duty to organise a clean, proper and acceptable election free from instructions from Oga at the top

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fast justice is obtained. I don’t know of any civilised society without effective judiciary. Our judiciary is underfunded, in some climes, judges do not have assistants, they work under a leaking roof with no fan, air conditioner and operate analogue system in typing documents. Judiciary should be directly funded from the Federation Account. Again, the constitution should be amended to create states judiciary structure up to Supreme Court and certain items in the exclusive list removed and made to end at the states Supreme Court like issue of marriages.

Why do you say this?

Imagine a situation where all cases in this country from more than 20 Courts of Appeal are going to one Supreme Court made up of only 16 justices. I think this situation contributes to delay of justice delivery in this country. I am not saying that the state-courts’ structures should be funded by the state executive arm. No, they too should be independently funded from the Federation Account.

How do you think the realignment of political forces will affect the forthcoming elections and what role do you foresee for the opposition in the country in post 2015?

On the realignment of political forces in the country, the likely consequences and the role of opposition in the post 2015, I have always believed that Nigeria can take a leap into development the day an incumbent president loses election. For instance, the massive development going on in Imo State in educational section; health sector, where general hospitals are being built in all the 27 local governments of the state; massive road projects going on; civil servants and pensioners receiving their pay promptly; free education to the point where students receive stipends; books and uniforms. Go to the three zones of the states namely; Owerri, Orlu, Okigwe and see for yourself . While a former governor from Okigwe zone only constructed one road in Ihitte/Uboma during his four-year term, in my ward Umuezegwu, Ihitte/Uboma in Okigwe zone, Rochas has embarked on three roads. One completed, two on-going. In the entire Ihitte/ Uboma local government area, there are several roads projects and other projects going on and some completed. I believe that Rochas desires to perform as a person, but I believe more that when he remembers that he defeated an incumbent to become the governor, he is pushed to do more in order not to disappoint the electorate who trusted him during the election.

How does this apply to Nigeria?

So, If Nigerians will rise to the occasion to vote out the incumbent president, I am sure the person in whom trust has been vested in will rise to the occasion. In the last election, Aba for instance, massively voted for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) when Dr. Jonathan came to Aba and urged them to vote for him and T.A Orji and they did. Since then, he has not bothered to come to Aba to know how we are surviving.

Today in Aba, Aba-Ikot Ekpene Road, a distance of fifteen minutes, has completely broken down to the extent that traders from that end now go through Umuahia to Onitsha-Port-Harcourt Road. A Federal Government road that runs through main Aba city is now a death trap. PortHarcourt-Enugu Express Road, that passes through Aba is bad, Igbos are importers of goods and are distributors of goods.

While there are Federal Government intervention agencies for Northern farmers and Niger Delta people, no Federal Government policy to favour trading, which is the mainstay of the Igbos. President Obasanjo during his time approved Isiala Ngwa dry port, till date, our supposed man, Jonathan, has refused to develop it.

LNG project approved for Imo State was taken away by Jonathan. Port-Harcourt-Owerri road project is now abandoned, where are Imo and Abia’s share of federal projects? I thank God, that today, PDP is now in the minority at the National Assembly. The re-alignment of political forces is quite interesting. The rumour that APC is a northern party has failed because people now know that Rochas Okorocha, Ngige and Ogbnnaya Onu, all governors of Igbo land are leaders of APC. So, how is APC a northern party?

I thank these governors who saw the re-alignment of political forces and ensured that Igbos were part of the formation.

For once, main stream west and north have formed an alignment. It would have spelt doom for the Igbos if our sons and daughters were not part of the re-alignment. We look forward to 2015 with high expectations. Let us now see how an Ijaw man has become an Igbo man. In Igbo land an Ijaw man is known as an Mba mmiri man not an Igbo man.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

LAW & SOCIETY

Court declares community leader owner of Epe land

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ECURITY personnel and court bailiffs from the Lagos State High Court stormed Abijo village in Ibeju-Lekki area of the state last Friday took possession of a landed property adjudged owned by a community leader, Mr. George Olu Mabadeje.

The security agents and the bailiffs went there to enforce a judgment of a Lagos High Court judge, Justice Taofikat Oyekan-Abdullahi delivered two years ago.

Justice Oyekan-Abdullahi had in her judgement delivered on Thursday, October 2012, in suit no LD/ 513/09, declared the applicant (Mabadeje) as the rightful owner of the land.

The defendants in the suit are Alhaji Akibu Alarape Adams, Nurudeen Salawu, Talubi Salawu, Ganiyu Ogundibo and unknown persons.

By Adebisi Onanuga

The judge had, in the enrolment of order issued sequel to a motion exparte filed by Mabadeje on December 16, 2013, held among others: According to Justice OyekanAbdullahi, “That leave be and same is hereby granted to the Applicant: Writ of possession of all that piece or parcel land lying and situated at Abijo Village Epe Expressway, Ibeju-Lekki, measuring 6039.89, 4395.96, 8094.03, 1520.92, square metres respectively and more particularly described in the survey plan no OKL92/395, OKL92/395A, OKL92/391, OKL93/164 and OKL92/247 as a consequence of the judgement of this honourable court”.

Prior to the issuance of the enrolment order, Justice OyekanAbdullahi had in the ruling said: “It

is clear from the records of this court that the first and fifth defendants have never attended the pre-trial conference, which was buttressed by the learned counsel to the third and fourth defendant counsel that the learned counsel to the first defendant came to court and left before the case was called today. It shows he has no interest in the case neither did he intend to participate.

The judge added: “Consequently, I am left with no option than to invoke the said order and accordingly enter judgement against the first and fifth defendants.”

Meanwhile, Abijo residents have commended the officers and men of the Nigerian Police and the court officials for maintaining relative peace in the environment, which they adduced to the peaceful manner the execution of the court judgement was carried out last Friday.

•From left: Tuku Abdullahi, Abdullahi, Wada, Imam, Saleh and Danjidda.

NBA inaugurates Ungongo branch in Kano

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HE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) last week in Kano inaugurated the leadership and officers of one of the newly created branches of the association, Ungogo branch in Kano State. The inauguration was performed by the General Secretary of the NBA, Mr. Emeka Obegolu, who represented

NBA President, Okey Wali (SAN) at the event.

The officers include: Salisu S. Danjide-Chairman; Juliana B. SalehVice-Chairman; Mustapha Imam Secretary; Wada A. Wada-Asst secretary; Binta Tukur Abdullahi-Treasurer; Usman Abdullahi-Financial Secretary; Bashir Saleh-Public Rela-

tions Officer; Mutawakil Ishaq-Welfare Secretary and Idris Ibrahim Haruna-Nec Rep. The event was attended by the Second Vice-President of the NBA, Mr. Steve Abar, Dele Adesina (SAN), Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN) Aliyu Umar (SAN) and Yunus U

Ogun court strikes out suit against monarch

A

N Ogun State High Court sitting in Otta has struck out a suit against the Baale of Ado Igoke-Igbesa, Alhaji Saidi Ifalodun Aina Ibila by Kehinde Buhari Inakoju, and two others for lack of juridiction.

The judge, Justice O.S. Olusanya said the suit by the claimants was premature and does not give rise to a cognisable course of action.

“From the above reasons, I hold that the action of the claimants is accordingly premature, and does not give rise to a cognisable cause of action. I hold that the court lacks the jurisdiction to hear and determine the case. The suit is hereby struck out,” he said.

Other claimants in the suit are: Messrs Akeem Inakoju and Musiliu Eweje.

The defendants are: Alhaji Saheed F. Odusanya; Oba Samuel Olusola Banusao, the Oloja Ekun of Igbesa land; and the Attorney-General of Ogun State. Others are: Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Cheiftancy Affairs and the Chiarman, Ado-Odo Local Government, Ogun State.

The claimants are praying the court for: (i) A declaration that the first defendant is not a bonafide member of the Inakoju, Eweje, Apogba and Ojuri Rulling House. (ii) The fisrt defendant is not qualifies or competent to be nominated or appointed to occupy the

By Adegunle Olugbamila

stool of Idi-Okeland of Ogun State. (iii) A declaration that the first defendant should not portray himself as the Oba-in-waiting to the throne of or the stoool of Oke in Ogun State. (iv) An order of perpetual injuction restraining the first defendant from parading himself or as performing the function of Oba of Idi-Oke in Igbesa Ogun State.

In a sharp contrast, however, the defendants prayed the court for a notice of a preliminary objection on the grounds that: (i) The third and fifth defendants are of necessary parties to this action and as such their names should be struck out accordingly. (ii) The court lacks juridiction to entertain their suit and as such, it should be dismissed.

Justice Olusanya in his judgement dated July 23 2009, said before the claimants can take their grieviances to the court, three steps must be complied with. The steps, he said, include that: (i) The prescribed authorithy must have made a determination; (ii) The the aggrieved party make a representation to the Commissioner for Chieftancy Affairs within 21 days of the giving of the decision, and (iii) The Commissioner for Chieftancy Affairs should detemine after due inquiry.

Justice Olusanya said the claimants failed to meet the aforementiond steps.

“The claimants in this case have not complied with any of the conditions precedents or precondition enabling them to bring the action free before court,” Justice Olusanya added.

The Bale of Ago Idoke-Igbesa, Saidi Ifalodun Ibile said since the validation of his Baaleship by the court in July last year still subsists, he, therefore, still remains the authentic Baale of the community.

Baale Ibile’s action, he explained, was based on certain speculation by some interest in the community opposed to his leadership.

He said about two weeks ago, certain elements in the community peddled rumours that he (Ibile) is no longer the bonafide head of Ago-Idoke-Igbesa comunities, warning the public not to transact any business whatsoever with him including the sale of land.

Baale Ibile said the rumours were mere falsehood targeted at discrediting him. He allayed the fears of individual interested in engaging in any trasaction with him with respect to the Ago Idoke-Igbesa community. He called on government and the law enforcement agents’ prompt intevention to caution rumour peddlers to forstall a breakdown of law and order.

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com

Deaths at my backyard and elsewhere DEATH is a grim reaper indeed. The evening of last Tuesday brought it home. It was the day, 14 persons got drowned in the canal, just behind my residence in Festac Town, in Amuwo-Odofin Lagos. The wailing and anguish of the bereaved continually pierced the soul. While the survivors were angst, our neighborhood was thoroughly traumatized.

Nothing prepared the victims for this final journey. After all, it was too short, to portend any danger. A less than 10 metres boat ride. Same week, in far away Kaduna, death reaped 100 peasant souls. Also in Kastina, while President Goodluck Jonathan and his hosts were at a state banquet, death was also feasting not far off. Across the cities of Abuja, Port Harcourt, Minna and Benin, 19 job seekers, got gruesome immigration passports to eternity.

The Amuwo-Odofin deaths stole into our evening. It was around 7.30 pm. I had just returned from work about 20 minutes earlier, when I heard my neighbour, shouting to my wife, that there has been a boat accident at the canal. Exhausted from the day’s work, I reluctantly got into my shots, and walked out to the gate and towards the canal. I was shocked to see a restive crowd amassed at the bank of the canal, gawking at the dark brackish water that should have been a clean and leisure inland water way. On enquiry, I was told that the dark bowels of the canal had few minutes ago swallowed a boat filled with about 20 plus, men, women and children.

In the pandemonium, I shouted to who ever cared to listen, if you have the numbers of the local government officials and emergency authorities, please call them and report the accident. After a while, I moved farther off the smelly and mosquito infested water way, and leaned on a parked car, with my neigbour in complete helpless indignation. Just then, one of the distraught survivors, who had swam to safety, sauntered towards us. He queried, “What will I tell his parents?” “What will I say happened to him?” Sensing our confusion, he explained. “My apprentice was in that boat. We just finished work at the 6th avenue and were going home. He couldn’t make it, and I didn’t see him to help him.

I am in trouble”.

Seeing his pain, and helpless at his loss, I offered my inconsequential condolence, thus. “This tragedy will be in the papers and television tomorrow. His parents will see for themselves that it was an accident, and that you couldn’t do anything to save him. Please take heart. God who allowed it to happen knows everything”. My neighbour also offered similar sentiments, while the poor soul sauntered on. Nearby, a young lady who survived the tragic encounter was telling another standby, “That boat was overloaded and I told them so, but they refused to listen. Anyway, thank God I made it”. When later people who looked like local council officials walked pass, towards the canal, I shouted, please can you organize flood lights. Some of the victims may still be alive. Please do something. Not long after, emergency officials and the Council Chairman, Comrade Ayodele, arrived and help was underway.

But I have since been asking myself, why we leave such a cheap life?

Having lived in the neighbourhood for some years, I have always wandered why should such an ingeniously manmade canal designed for the residents of the housing estate as a means of water transportation and leisure become such an impregnable miasma of water borne diseases.

One of the local divers, who helped to rescue the six lucky chaps, had succinctly described the canal. In relaying his efforts, he had said, “You know that water is very thick. You need a lot of power to swim through the water. That is why many people couldn’t make it”. What made the water in the canal become thick and substantially stagnant, one may ask.

The major culprits are the bandits that have turned the canal to a route for illegal oil bunkering. It is the waste from their illegal trade that turned the water to thick layers of dark brackish water. The next group is the security agencies who have failed to stop them. Some distraught bystanders last Tuesday claimed that there is even official connivance or condonation. Of course the official owners of the Estate, the Federal Housing Authority, only exist to extort all manner of development charges from the residents. Yet, but for the local council authority, the entire road network in the community would have remained impassable. While the official fees for a property in the Estate costs an arm and a leg, including ubiquitous development charges, I have never in the past decade seen the Housing Authority maintaining or redeveloping the originally well made drains, pavements, roads and other infrastructure.

As reported by this paper last Friday, the beloved mother of one of the victims of the Amuwo Odofin 14, Festus Okunbor, an Information Technology specialist, while wailing uncontrollably over her loss, rhetorically asked, “Who will look after me and do the things he has been doing for me”? I also ask who will restore the glory of the famous Festival Town, also known as FESTAC town. Who will restore this unintended death bed, called Canal, to its original use, as designed by the builders of the Festival Town? Even more poignant now, who will stop the nation-wide bleeding across Nigeria? Who will clean the national shame foisted on us, by an unprecedented national ineptitude, the most recent being the shame called employment process by the disgraceful Ministry of Internal Affairs, headed by one Abba Moro. Who will save our youths from deaths, arms and unemployment? Who will save Nigeria?

For comments: 08033054939 (sms only).

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

39

LAW & SOCIETY Lagos State has again blazed the trail in the judiciary with the inauguration of first ever children’s court and as required by the Child’s Rights Act. The lounge is intended to care for children, who most of the time, bear the consequences of divorce. The state Chief Judge, Justice Ayotunde Phillips and head of the Family Court, Lagos Judicial Division, Justice Yetunde Idowu spoke on this issue and other sundry ones in an encounter with Adebisi Onanuga.

Why we are inaugurating children’s lounge

L • The Head Judge Justice Funmilayo Atilade inaugrating the Children's Lounge. Others (from left) are: Justice Iyabo Kasali; Justice Fadekemi Oluyemi; Justice Adebisi Kayode-Ogunmekan and Justice Yetunde Idowu.

•From left: Director, Finance and Administration, Lagos State judiciary, Mr. Taofeek Fashola; Magistrate (Mrs.) Olubusola Okunuga and Magistrate(Mrs.) O.I. Adelaja

• Justice Yetunde Idowu and an Assessor, Mrs. Shade Atiba.

AGOS State judiciary inched forward in the implementation of Child Rights Act 2007 with the inauguration of a lounge for the children in family courts last week.

The lounge was equipped with children’s story and toy books; exotic toys and children games of different kinds; couches and other electronic items such as television; water dispenser; cookies and candies.

Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Ayotunde Phillips described the lounge, established by virtue of Section 150 of the Child’s Right Act, as novel and the first of its kind in all the 19 states that have adopted the law.

Justice Phillips, who was represented by the Head Judge, Justice Funmilayo Atilade said the lounge would remove the children from the psychological influence they would have suffered if told the divorce story of their parents.

The head of the Family Court, Lagos Judicial Division, Justice Yetunde Idowu explained that the purpose of creating children’s lounge is in accordance with the Child Rights Act, which forbids anyone from having a child where issues concerning adults are being discussed. “Normally, when you have a matter, for instance, custody matter in a matrimonial court, when you talk about issues in divorce, you would expect some funny and dirty details. That is not good for the upbringing of the child and is also not good for the psyche of the child to be present when these things are being said,” she said.

She continued: “So, while we are tackling that, the child will be brought to the lounge and taken care of. We don’t want to expose our children to all these dirty things being said in the matrimonial court. So they are here and are taken care of and when their parents are ready to go, they would take them.”

Justice Idowu said sometimes, there could be a need for the family court magistrate or judge to have a talk with the children and would want to have it in a conducive atmosphere. She said in such situation the court room is not a friendly place. “We don’t want to expose the children to that and with this kind of environment, you know children, when they are comfortable, they tell you the truth so that you know the way to go forward. That is the essence of setting up a place like this,” she said.

Justice Idowu disclosed that the children’s lounge is the first to be inaugurated by the Lagos State judiciary and each family court would have a place like that attached to it.

According to her, there are 10 family courts manned by Chief Magistrates and two by judges in Lagos State are spread around different areas in the state.

On cases of child defilement, which are on the increase of late, she said a place like the children’s lounge would help to take evidence from victims, who sometimes may view the court as a hostile place.

“If they are brought to court to testify, I think this would be an ideal place to take their evidence rather than take their evidence in court,” she said.

The state, according to her, has a similar place for victims of child abuse, child rape or defilement and others. “I am aware there is a centre where the victims can be taken to, where a psychologist can have a session with them. We are not psychologists, they are. So while we are handling the hard core cases, children can be brought here, we can have a chat with them and they would tell you what happened and that would help in the prosecution and adjudication of the matter,” she said.

Justice Idowu does not see any need

for a review of the criminal law to make the punishment for child defilement stiffer and curb the increasing trend. According to her, what is in the criminal code is stiff enough to deter a potential child rapist.

“I think the present punishment we have is enough, but that is my own personal opinion. But I think we should tackle more, the fundamental things that are wrong. It starts from the home. A girl must be told that nobody has the right to touch her without her consent. Mothers must be told that they must protect their children from all these people. For instance, if you ask me, a man of 20 years or an adult going after a young girl, we need to tell them that girl child marriage is not something we should encourage. I think the punishment is enough. If someone is convicted, that punishment is ideal”.

Justice Idowu disagreed with claims by lawyers that absence of witnesses to acts of rape makes conviction difficult. She said this does not happen in all cases as there are other evidences that are considered.

She, however, emphasised: “In a situation where somebody was there, that person can come to court and give evidence on what he or she saw. Most of the time, these things are committed in camera, not in the open. If I am in the open, I don’t think any normal being would come and want to defile a child near me. I would of course shout.

“So in most cases they are not done in the open and they create fear in the mind of these children that ‘if you tell anybody, I would do this to you; I would do that to you’, that is why children need to take their parents into confidence. Parents too must be close to their children so that if anything is happening to a child, the child would feel free to talk to them,” she said.

Lagos to get commercial court

T

HE Lagos State government would soon build a special court to adjudicate on commercial disputes in the state in order to attract foreign investors.

The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Ayotunde Phillips disclosed this last week while speaking at one day Stakeholders’ Forum on Fast Track Rules and Procedure by the state Judiciary held last week at City Hall.

It was organised by the state judiciary in collaboration with Justice for All, a project of the British Council and Human Development Initiatives(DHI).

Justice Phillips said the commercial court would adjudicate in matters relating to revenues, mortgages and other commercial disputes.

She said the peculiarity of the state as the hub of the nation’s economy has made a commercial court more imperative and in reality with developments around the world.

The Chief Judge said the court would be located at Tapa area of Lagos Island, adding that the architect has completed the design as the take off awaits the governor’s consent.

The main objective of establishing the court, she said, was to reduce the time spent on litigations to a period not exceeding nine months from the commencement of the action till final judgment.

By Adebisi Onanuga

“This fast-track court is what the social economic climate of Nigeria requires now as the world is fast moving towards arbitration in dispute resolution. Nigeria cannot sit on the fence and watch all these developments around her. We have to be part of the development around the world,” she stressed.

She appealed to stakeholders in the judiciary to partner towards making the initiative a success.

The state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ade Ipaye said speedy resolution of commercial disputes was important for economic development.

“Investors are looking for a justice system that works. They are looking for where they can confidently invest with the expectation that when there are disputes, those disputes can be speedily addressed,” he added.

Ipaye urged practitioners to ensure that the initiative works by changing those things done wrong in the course of practicing their profession.

“You can have the laws, you can have the judiciary, but using delay tactics is unfortunate. It makes a lot of people to lose faith in the judiciary and justice system,” he said.

The Attorney-General appealed to

legal practitioners to shun the habbit of filing frivolous applications, which often cause delays in the court system.

According to him, filing of frivolous applications in order to frustrate trial was not the proper thing to do if lawyers believe they don’t have a solid case.

He advised lawyers to embrace the paradigm shift of the fast track court adding, “this will guarantee investors’ trust in our judicial system”.

“Investors are looking for a stable

political and judicial system that works. When an investor is assured of getting justice in respect of disputes from commercial transactions within a reasonable time, he would feel secured to invest in the country,” he said.

Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, Mr Monday Ubani said lawyers must be dissuaded from employing delay tactics in fast-track matters.

Ubani described the fast-track procedure as a welcome innovasion and procedure that would encourage

•From left: Prof. Owasanoye, Justice Phillips and Ipaye at the event.

commercial transactions of lending and burrowing, and give confidence to foreign investors that debt owed would be easily recovered using fast-track mechanism.

Making a remark, National Programme Manager, Justice for All, Dr Bob Arnot said the relationship between justice and economic development cannot be over emphasised.

Arnot, represented by Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), said this was the reason the British Council was supporting the initiative.

PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

40

BOOK REVIEW

An introduction to commercial law in Nigeria

T

HE dynamism of human endeavours with the attendant ingenious creativity that mankind is known for justifies one axiom that I learnt when I was in the law school in the United States. That axiom is: “Shepherdise or compromise.” This, as you probably know, means: “Be up to date or be behind time.” Being behind time in our context is fatal because it means the social misguidance of citing obsolete laws.

I have in my hand a shepherdised and shepherding treatise on Nigerian commercial law that is well researched, resourceful and highly instructive. By way of what I term “jointed incrementalism”, it presents in digestible form of knowledge of commercial law through its core interconnected subjects, from the basic and foundational to the complex, current and globally apposite. It lays the expository foundation of its impartation on the old English and domestic judicial authorities and builds on it a robust body of up-to-date case-law, current statutory provisions analysis and opinions of experts in diverse writings. In doing so, it offers a repository coalescence of treasures that were fragmented in materials in public domain as well as ingenious learned opinions of the author.

It also flavours it with contemporariness by presenting a law book that addresses current issues and practices.

This invaluable book breaks the traditional mould in which many books on Nigerian law are cast. It begins each chapter with specific learning objectives and outcomes. This style offers a roadmap for purposeful and fruitful reading. It adds introductory and concluding summaries and employs colour coding and smart summary boxes that present its teaching, learning and practice contents in easy to read and remember format. It articulates legal principles and makes policy arguments not only through persuasive judicial authorities that are derivatives of our English common law heritage, but also through binding precedents as well as statutory provisions that are autochthonous or home-grown.

The first few chapters of the book are on subjects that, by tradition, an inquirer would find in a conventional book on commercial law. Expectedly, they cover the law of contracts, agency, sale of goods, hire purchase, banking and insurance. Significantly, however, the book shows the dynamism of the field that it explores by breaking out of the traditional to engage other symbiotically related areas of the law. It brings emphasis to bear on emerging issues in a way that convincingly calls for a review of the commercial law curriculum of Nigerian institutions of higher learning, a position I am fully persuaded of from my experience as an academic for almost 30 years. In so doing, the book achieves substantially the objective of a presenting a commendable one-stop compendium to the student and practitioner of commercial law in readable language. From its very beginning to the end, the book demonstrates a clear mission to create lawyers with cutting-edge problem-solving abilities suited to the 21st Century that go beyond merely citing the past.

In Chapter 1, the book enriches the knowledge of the law of contracts beyond the days of acceptance by wagon to the days of clipwrapping and e-contracting generally. It cites recent cases of the highest binding authority to explain and appraise sacrosanct principles.

Examples are the Supreme Court decisions in Akinyemi v. Odu’a Investment Co. Ltd (2012) 1 SC (pt.4) 43 on acceptance, BFI Group Corporation v. Bureau of Public Enterprise (2012) 7 SC (pt. III) 1 on consideration, Lagos State Government v. Toluwase (2013) I NWLR (pt. 1336) 555 on terms of contract and Attorney-General, Rivers State v. AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Anor. (2012) 7 SC (pt. 1) 72 on discharge of contract. The same flavour of endowment and contemporariness attends Chapter 2 on the

BOOK REVIEW Book Title:

An Introduction to Commercial Law in Nigeria: Text, Cases and Materials.

Author:

George Etomi

Publisher:

MIJ Professional Publishers, Lagos

Year of Publication:

2014

Pages:

xxvi + 548

Reviewer:

Professor Olayiwola Oladele

law of agency.

Chapter 3 explains intellectual property, the rationale and methods for its protection, as well as the remedies available to a person whose intellectual property has been stolen or violated. The chapter cites and appraises Nigerian and other common law jurisdictions’ cases as well as scholarly opinions in interpreting the provisions of the Copyright Act, Trade Marks Act and the Patents and Designs Act. It takes the reader though the procedural requirements for copyrighting, trade mark registration and patenting, giving life to the letters of the law to ease the task of students and practitioners in this area.

The pivot for the contents of Chapter 4 is the Sale of Goods Act, purposely chosen as a mirror of states laws on the subject, and explained through a traverse of judicial authorities. The treatment of the rights and duties of the parties, conditions and warranties as well as passing of property is so lucid that they cease to be students’ nightmare. I must remark here that English cases still dominate the discourse in this area, and it is hoped that future editions would be rich in Nigerian cases as our case-law develops.

Chapter 5 meticulously explains Common

Law principles and the Nigerian statutory law on hire purchase transactions. In a refreshing way, it covers the duties and remedies of the parties as well as the contractual terms. With utmost fecundity, it explains the core issues. Among other analyses, its distinction of ownership and passing of property in hire purchase from sale of goods, particularly credit sale, is very instructive. The citation and application of the recent Supreme Court decision in the case of Alhaji Jimoh Ajagbe v. Layiwola Idowu (2011) LPELR-SC 271/2003 and other cases is classic. The same trend of currency runs through its treatment of repossession of hired goods and the minimum payment clause.

From the historical and traditional, to the recurring and the contemporary, Chapter 6, teaches the institutional and regulatory framework for the establishment and operation of banks in Nigeria. It explains the dynamics of the relationship of the transactional parties. Through a prodigious review of appellate Nigerian cases, interspersed with a few English cases, it makes clear the law on banker-customer relationship (sample, Sani Abacha Foundation for Peace and Unity & 5 Ors. v. U.B.A. Plc (2010) 2 CLRN 92 (SC) holding the relationship to be that of debtor/ creditor). It does the same with securitisation of loans and other credit facilities beyond that which is commonplace in many existing texts. Through articulate case-law, scholarly writings and analysis, it explains, beyond doubt, the jurisdiction of the court in banking as well as in banker/customer relations.

The chapter also sheds light on negotiable instruments.

Chapter 7 focuses on all types of insurance in the context of their regulation in Nigeria.

LEGAL DIARY

NBA Section on Business Law (SBL) holds conference THE Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (SBL) will hold the 8th edition of the NBA-SBL Business Law Conference from May 2527, 2014 at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The theme for this year’s conference is ”Exemplary Governance – Enhancing Economic Development in Nigeria”.

A statement from the Governing Council of the Section states that:

It makes issues such as insurable interests, indemnity, materiality of information, underwriting, re-insurance and settlement of claims almost self-explanatory.

Chapter 8 creates order in the complex web of taxation law in Nigeria, explaining the types of taxes and taxing authorities as well as the scope of their powers through statutory provisions and the cases. It delineates the taxing powers of the Federal Government from those of the states and Local Government authorities. It makes light reading of key aspects of taxation law, including double taxation, tax evasion and avoidance.

Chapter 9 shifts the readers’ focus from litigation and litigiousness to arbitration and other Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods. It employs scholarly opinions and statutory provisions to explain the process and practice of arbitration, conciliation, negotiation and out-of-court settlement. It caps them all with a note on the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse System.

Chapter 10 introduces International trade and Finance Law and explains its basic principles as well as regulatory organisations and agencies. Of the core principles, the chapter explains and evaluates the two components of the principle of non-discrimination - the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rule and the National Treatment (NT) principle. The organisational segment has valuable information on the emergence and role of the

‘

the book achieves substantially the objective of a presenting a commendable one-stop compendium to the student and practitioner of commercial law in readable language

’

“This theme is influenced by the fact that the conference is being held in the penultimate year to Nigeria’s general elections and thus presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to address the imperatives of exemplary governance as a platform for enhancing economic development in the country”.

Since its inception in 2004, the NBA – SBL Business Law Conference has remained a converging point for policy formulators, regulators and industry practitioners with deliberations at the various editions of the Conference covering such diverse areas of legal practice as banking, finance and insolvency ,infrastructure and power, capital markets, mergers, acquisitions and corporate restructurings, competition law, travel, hospitality and tourism, sports and entertainment, intellectual property, arbitration and ADR, energy, natural resources and environment, aviation, etc.

World Trade Organisation (WTO) and its pivotal agreement on tariffs called the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The chapter also presents the important terms and practices of international trade to aid the readers’ understanding of the workings and regulation of the trade within the frameworks of municipal and international law.

Other aspects of this highly elucidating chapter are the WTO dispute settlement system made up of a Dispute Settlement Body and an Appellate Body, regional trading and economic integration arrangements that include the ECOWAS, African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States, the European Union (EU) and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the formation of contracts of international export, carriage of goods by air and sea, marine cargo insurance as well as the legal implication of letters of credit and performance bonds. The chapter closes with a concise treatment of the international regimes for the protection of intellectual property and foreign direct investment.

Chapter 11 employs historical and textual analytical skills to present the general principles of anti-corruption law to readers. Beginning its charity at home, it explains the contents of the Nigerian anti-corruption law and the justification for it. It identifies the diverse statutes on prohibition of corruption and appraises the core ones. It situates the Nigerian initiative in the response of the international community to the fight against corruption. The chapter also explains the allimportant role of lawyers in the fight against money laundering in the context of their duty of confidentiality in client relations.

Chapter 12 explains anti-trust or competition law from global perspectives. Through a trans-jurisdictional appraisal, it expounds the core objectives of competition law as ensuring that there is no stifling monopoly that hinders healthy competition and the choice of consumers. The chapter observes rightly that Nigeria, like Ghana, has no comprehensive competition statute, but has done considerable work to have one. As a tool for making a case for the enactment of a domestic competition law, it does a cursory analysis of the proposed Nigerian Competition and Consumer Protection Bill. The book argues rightly that it is problematic to lump consumer protection with competition law as the Bill does without a clear statement of the implementation mode.

The chapter offers a useful roadmap towards a Nigerian competition law regime through a trans-Atlantic evaluation of the laws and practices in the EU, UK and US. On the continent of Africa, it presents the commendable and comprehensive model of South Africa. It caps the evaluation with a cursory analysis of the extraterritorial application of the US law through the device of the principle of objective territoriality and effect of doctrine in the absence of any international instrument that curtails such an application.

The closing chapter focuses on globalisation of legal practice and places an all-important challenge before Nigerian legal practitioners in its discourse to situate Nigeria for the best deal it could secure in the regime of liberalisation of legal service.

The chapter shows the working of international trade law by taking on an issue under the General Agreement for Trade in Services (GATS). It also establishes that the liberalisation envisaged is not boundless as it allows developing countries that are members of the WTO to limit their commitments so as to protect their domestic industries. In so doing, it explains the application of special and differential treatment in international trade agreements.

I commend to you George Etomi’s An Introduction to Commercial Law in Nigeria: Text, Cases and Materials, not for browsing and skimming but for reading and digesting. It makes compelling reading.

•Chairman SBL Governing Council, Gbenga Oyebode

42

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

POLITICS

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

43

THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

• Buhari

• Asiwaju Tinubu

• Chief Akande

• Onu

Since 1999, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been in power. But, the challenges of development have persisted. Can the main opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), fix Nigeria in 2015? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the party’s manifesto, which makes it a credible alternative platform.

F

APC: Roadmap for welfare state

OR 14 years, the country has been at cross roads. The challenges are overwhelming.

The poor economy has led to an illusion of hope. The failed budgets have exposed imprudent management. The atmosphere of insecurity is not investment-driven. The energy crisis has led to a high cost of production and crippled the manufacturing sector. Bad roads are death traps. The rot in the aviation sector, soaring unemployment and corruption are the nation’s albatross. Who will fix the crumbling edifice in 2015?

The all Progressives Congress (APC) attempted to provide answers to these puzzles last week in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), when it unveiled its manifestos. The 10point road map, in its leaders’ view, may herald a welfarist state. There is a signal that the ideological culture of the old is about to be re-invented. The highlights of the manifestos include the creation of 20,000 jobs per state, free and qualitative education, better housing plan, improved funding for agriculture, independence for anti-corruption agencies and security. Others are social security for the poor, technological driven industrial estates, allowances for ex-corps members for 12 months and war against corruption.

To political watchers, the die is cast between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the main opposition platform, the APC. The prelude to the battle is the contest of ideas. Many Nigerians have hailed the party’s plans, but, the PDP frowned at it, dismissing it as unrealistic. Its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, described it as a road map to anarchy, adding that it will lead to doom.

The APC Interim Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said that, ahead of the next general elections, the party would approach voters with the road map. He said that the manifestos would halt the cries of despondency, when it is implemented, unlike the Federal Government’s transformation agenda, which has become a disaster, owing to faulty implementation. Mohammed, who described the road map as the outcome of the national need assessment, stressed: “We commissioned a survey on what is wrong with Nigeria; what exactly Nigerians need. unemployment, corruption and insecurity are the major problems confronting Nigeria today. So, the road map is a result of what Nigerians need.

He added: “What we have done today is to show that there is a big difference between the PDP and the APC. We are after a new Nigeria.

This is a new Nigeria we are creating in which the people will be the beginning and the end of all developmental programmes”.

Already, some of these manifestos are being implemented in some APC states. In Ekiti State, Governor Kayode Fayemi is implementing a novel social security scheme for the vulnerable aged people. Beneficiaries have acknowledged the programme, which they described as lifeprolonging. In Osun State, Governor Rauf Aregbesola is fighting the infrastructure battle.

The state has the highest number of towns in the country. Across these towns, roads are being constructed and rehabilitated. In fact, in his first one

‘There is a big difference between the PDP and the APC. We are after a new Nigeria. This is a new Nigeria we are creating in which the people will be the beginning and the end of all developmental programmes’ hundred days in office, the governor created 20, 000 jobs. the provision of employment may have reduced crime in the state. In Lagos State, Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has delivered on his promise to provide affordable housing within the context of the current economic realities. Many road projects are on-going. The light rail project is on course. The state is a huge construction site.

In Rivers State, the resources of the state are judiciously deployed to developmental projects. The governor, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, has built new schools, rehabilitated many schools, and commissioned new roads. There is no sector that is not touched by the governor, despite the concerted efforts made by his detractors to divert his attention from state business. In Zamfara State, Governor Yari has revolutionalised agriculture and turned it into an income yielding venture. In Kwara State, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed is building on the legacies of former Governor Bukola Saraki.

In Oyo State, the urban renewal efforts of Governor Abiola Ajimobi has given Ibadannand other towns a face lift. Even, members of the PDP in Ogun State have applauded the giant strides of the Amosun Administration. In Kano State, Governor Rabiu Kwakwanso has run an accountable government. The dividends of democracy are felt at the grassroots.

The next stage, said the APC Interim Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, is their replication at the federal level, if the party wins the presidential election. Other leaders, including Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, Chief Ogbonnaya Onu, and the 16 APC governors also believe that they are achievable goals. Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko, who spoke at the presentation of the road map, submitted that it is not a rhetoric, but a blue-print for change. He said, through its effective implementation, the party will restore national dignity.

His Yobe counterpart, Ibrahim Geidam, berated the PDP for its failure to revive the power sector and reduce insecurity. He said, instead, the party has promoted arrogance of power, impunity and corruption. But, the Yobe governor assured that hope is not lost, if the people vote wisely in the next year’s election. “The legacy of any government is to make its country stronger and better. In the power sector, there was a drop of 924 megawatts of power in 2013 and since then, it has continued to drop. In the last six months, the National Economic Council has not met. Today, there is insecurity in the country, especially in the Northeast. The only solution to the problem of insecurity is the swearing in of an APC government in 2015”, he added.

The manifestos, according to analysts, underscores the party’s vision for a brighter future. It also reveals strategic planning. Although the party has not revealed its implementation strategies fully, the performance of their governors gives an

assurance that there will be good governance, if there is power shift in 2015.

A political scientist, Boniface Ayodele, lauded the priority given to employment in the road map. He observed that the country has been sitting on a keg of gun powder, judging by the number of jobless graduates. He said that there is a link between unemployment and crime, which government has ignored to the country’s peril.

“National conference cannot solve unemployment. The solution is a concrete plan aimed at reviving the power sector and revatalising the manufacturing sub-sector”, he said.

According to the road map, the creation of 20,000 jobs has implications. The scope is the secondary school leavers, who are to savour technological and vocational training. However, Ayodele said that, there is also the need to tackle under-unemployment. “When graduates now sell recharge cards on the road or when they become road sweepers, that is not employment that can serve as reward for tertiary education. If there is stable power supply, many youths will be able to become creative and productive through sheer handwork, deployment of talents to creative endeavours”, Ayodele added.

Many stakeholders have applauded the determination of the APC to rid Nigeria of corruption.

In the manifestos, the party proposed stiff penalty for graft. This include forfeiture and seizure of assets and inexplicable wealth, reinvigoration of the legal system to prevent delays in corruption trials, a guarantee for the independence of the anti-corruption agencies, and transparent government transactions.

Since the setting up of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the PDP government has claimed that the anti-corruption battle was on course. The evidence on ground has contradicted this claim. Graft has dented the image of the country in the comity of nation. Last month, the House of Representatives Speaker, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, chided President Goodluck Jonathan for condoning corruption. It is an understatement. According to critics, the alleged missing N20 billion oil money is a pointed to the monumental fraud being committed daily by power barons.

To wipe out corruption, a chieftain of the APC, Mr. Isiaka Adekunle-Ibrahim, said that party leaders should develop the commitment, will and capacity to confront the challenge. He said that public office and money are too tempting, adding that the party should build a culture of discipline and self-control. “The APC government at the centre will only be able to fight corruption, if the leaders live by example. The state governors are doing that already. The money they have as governors are not even enough to implement their developmental projects. So, they can’t afford to embezzle them. If the anti-corruption pos-

ture of the governors is carried over to Abuja, then, there will be hope. If the APC President is not corrupt, he will not appoint corrupt ministers. If the leader is clean and he has the ability to insist on probity, all will be well”, AdekunleIbrahim added.

APC’s panacea to insecurity has been public knowledge before the release of the road map. In the past, the APC governors had visited Maiduguri, the Bornu State capital, to give solidarity to their colleague, Ibrahim Kashim, and assess the situation on ground. Many Nigerians believe that the Federal Government has failed to halt terrorism, in spite of the huge money committed to the anti-terror war. Not only have commercial activities been put on hold, many have deserted their towns and villages, owing to the onslaught by the dreadful Boko Haram sect.

Apart from the menace of Boko Haram, kidnapping is also thriving in other parts of the country.

Youths also engage in cyber crime. Others engage in ritual killings. In the Southsouth, militancy has not stopped, despite the amnesty programmes, which gulped a huge sum of money from the federal purse.

In the APC’s reckoning, peace and security are fundamental to Nigeria’s social and economic wellbeing. It believes that every Nigerian should be safe and free to work in any part of the country, regardless of tribe, ethnicity or religious beliefs. One of the measures canvassed by the party is the restoration of true federalism. If this is done, the party believes that states will have their local police forces that can address the special needs of each community. Therefore, community policing will not be ruled out as it will engender trust in the members of the community that would be served by he peculiar arrangement.

APC also has good plans for education, the resolution of the ethno-religious conflicts, peaceful co-existence, national healing and girl-child education.

However, to translate these dreams into reality, the party have some hurdles to cross. The choice of its presidential flag bearer and running mate is a challenge. Before the selection process, its leadership structures have to be firmly established as a properly constituted national congress. The congresses at the wards, local governments and states will herald the national convention.

Adekunle-Ibrahim said that “eyes are on this great party as it forges ahead to the next election”, adding that party leaders will need to give concessions and build consensus on many issues of importance for the party to survive the onslaught of the ruling party and the Federal Government. The watchword is unity.

“The APC registration was successful in most parts of the country. The party could have done better in some states. Party management is challenging. There is public goodwill and solidarity, but the party must manage its achievements,” he added.

Another party member, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, advised the party leadership to promote the culture of reconciliation and crisis resolution. “This can be done by opening the channels of communication and avenues for ventilation of grievances”, he advised.

44

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

POLITICS Special Assistant on Media to Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State Soyombo Opeyemi spoke with reporters in Abeokuta, the state capital, on the achievements of the governor and other plans for the state.

I

‘Amosun has set new standards in Ogun’

NSECURITY was a major issue in Ogun State. How was your government able to contain the situation?

Section 14, Sub–section 2(b) of the 1999 Constitution states that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.” Amosun has fulfilled this allimportant provision. A woman was recounting the other day how restrictive life was in the state, especially between 2008 and 2011. You dared not remain in your shop till 8 p.m.

Often, by 6 p.m, most shops in Abeokuta would have closed for the day.

The state was awash with gun-toting youths, who commanded shopowners to surrender their money or life. Some public officials were even alleged to have kept guns in their lockers. The governor himself escaped death by a hair’s breadth. Others were not that lucky to escape the furry of the machete-wielding men, the then lords of Ogun State. Gradually, banks and other financial institutions began to close business as a result of insecurity, with attendant losses to the economy of the state.

Amosun had to deploy scarce resources to purchase state-of-the-art Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), the first of such latest technology in Nigeria. Hundreds of security vans fitted with modern communication gadgets were purchased and law enforcement officers were equipped and motivated. The tranquillity in Ogun State today bears eloquent testimony to the outstanding success of the Amosun Administration in this regard.

Functionaries of the previous PDP government have alleged that the roads been constructed now cost more than what they did before...

I think comparing the current administration with the previous one is like comparing light with darkness. Amosun is a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants of Nigeria with wide experience in auditing. Prudent management of finance is his forte.

Unknown to these noisemakers, the aides, for instance, under the current government, earn one-third of what

their counterparts earned under the last administration. Not only that, the few of them that live in government houses. The same holds for commissioners, special advisers, etc. You recall that the state lost about N30 billion in the Bureau of Lands under the former government. Today, the culture of e-payment is taking root in the state and loopholes are being blocked. The era of financial haemorrhage has become a thing of the past.

But, the past administration claimed that it constructed good roads...

That administration claimed that Sagamu-Abeokuta road was its prime project. That road was plastered and re-plastered many times under the same government that constructed it.

That highway remains a shame to the state capital and Ogun State. It was the same fate that befell the few roads constructed by that administration.

In most instances, those roads collapsed within two years. And that government built no bridges.

Did you say the previous government did not build bridges?

Yes, the former government built no bridges, not even one bridge, despite being headed by an engineer.

But today, go to Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, Abeokuta, and Ota, and you will be shocked by the massive bridges being constructed by an accountant.

Why will the people of Ijebu Ode, for instance, not support the Amosun Administration when the Mabolufon bridge is about to end the carnage on that junction and close down the slaughter centre permanently? Why will the people of Yewa South, Yewa North, Ipokia and Imeko Afon not sing praises of Amosun when he is the one constructing the 107 kilometre modern highway cutting across the four local councils?

Again, why should it be Amosun that should begin the construction of the economically-strategic 32km road from Sango to Ojodu? Even, in Sagamu, the abode of the man himself, it is Amosun that is constructing the first international standard road, Express/RSS Junction-Oba Erinwole

• Senator Amosun

Road, and building the first flyover bridge. In less than three years, the current government has done far more than what the previous government did in eight years.

How about the cost of these projects?

I have equally heard the noise of the opposition about the cost of the roads being constructed. The best of the roads by the former governor, the 1km Oke Ilewo road, is semimodern because it lacks the features of an international standard road such as 2.4km Ibara-Totoro road and other modern highways under construction across the state by the current governor. Even the MadojutimiMudal Lawal Stadium road, a ‘community road’ , has a better pedestrian walkway than that 1km Oke Ilewo road. The former governor’s road has no clearly-defined sidewalk. It lacks storm drains for rainfall. It has no green, well-defined median; no speed breaker and modern bus-stop. So, why will the current international standard motorways not cost more? Have you ever passed through Abiola Way, another modern road? The bulldozers confront rocks, yes, mini Olumo

‘I think comparing the current administration with the previous one is like comparing light with darkness.

Amosun is a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants of Nigeria with wide experience in auditing. Prudent management of finance is his forte’ rocks, every metre! Will such a highway not cost more to construct?

What about the compensation paid to owners of demolished buildings?

Is that not part of the cost of the road?

Well, lack of elementary economics, you would say.

Critics say your road projects are concentrated in towns and cities,and that you are ignoring the rural areas...

It is sheer fallacy. Have these armchair critics been to Ilara, Egua, Oja Odan, Tombolo, Tata and Ijoun? The longest road being constructed by the Amosun administration is located in those out-of-the-way areas, 107 kilometres in all. And this is not just a feeder road, the typical faceme-I-face-you road or just givethem-something piece of a motorway but a 107kilometres international standard road, complete with modern features such as drainage, pedestrian walkway, well-defined median, bus stop, etc. The IlaraIjoun highway cuts across many villages in four local councils in Ogun West senatorial district. During an inspection visit to Ilara, as reported ion the papers on February 11, 2013,

Senator Amosun, the governor of Ogun State, said: “You need good roads to get your farm produce to the markets within and outside your local council and state. Everybody needs excellent road network to save productive time, reduce stress, accident and other losses associated with bad or lack of access roads.”The newspapers reported further that “The people of Ilara in the neighbouring Benin Republic, who trooped out in large numbers to receive the governor, expressed gratitude to the Senator Amosun-led government for ending their distress.

The governor made stop-over visits to communities along the 100km highway and exchanged pleasantries with residents.”What does this extract from the Nigerian Tribune reveal about Governor Amosun’s cast of mind? Clearly, this is a governor that is very much at home with his people, especially the grassroots.

Again, these revisionists chose to ignore the 400 kilometres of rural roads which the state government graded and made motorable for the benefit of the people.

Critics also said that the debt profile of the state is in the region of 200 billion...

That’s a comprehensive falsehood.

You see, this is the antics of mischiefmakers and the aim is to deceive the public and detract the government so that rather than focus on the ground-breaking achievements of the Amosun administration, the public space will be invaded with sterile debates on imaginary debts.

If, for instance, you award a road contract of one hundred million (N100m) and you mobilise the contractor with fifteen million (N15m), and at the period of assessment, the contractor has only done ten percent (10 per cent) of the job, does it make sense for anyone to claim you are owing the contractor eighty five million (N85m)? Does it make any sense for anyone to cry on radio and television that you are owing N85m when the job done is even less than 15 per cent? Did they go to school at all?

Mrs Agnes Adeola Roy retired from the Federal Civil Service in 2007, after 23 years. Now a lawyer, she is aspiring to represent Ekiti Senatorial Central District under the All Progressives Congress (APC). In this interview with JOSEPH ESHANOKPE, she explains why she is running.

‘Tinubu is taking after Awo’

• Mrs Roy

G

OVERNOR Kayode Fayemi is going for a second term.

Considering the opposition from other camps, do you think he will make it?

Governor Kayode Fayemi has tried in Ekiti State. His is what can be described in legal terms as res ipsa loquitor (which means the fact speaks for itself). On roads, he has done so much. He is the first governor to pay the aged social security allowance. Though it is small, it goes a long way in helping the

beneficiaries. He has reformed the civil service, appointing technocrats and bureaucrats in right places. All the hospitals are well funded and have drugs, unlike before. He built maternity centres in all the local governments. His government is gender-friendly.

He has more women in his team than previous governors. He has eradicated discrimination, which undermined women development. His administration is the first to domesticate the Freedom of Information Law, and it respects the rule of law. It is also the first to pass the gender-based violence law. Based on these, I think he will make it.

What about the National Leader of your party, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu?

What the people did not allow Awo to do, Tinubu is doing it. He is a visionary leader and detribalised. Under Asiwaju, we had Ibo as commissioners in Lagos.

It has not happened in other states.

He is a man of the people; very honest. Since the time of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), he’s been fighting for democracy. My wish is that God will continue to protect Tinubu,

the Jagaban of Africa.

Why did you choose the All Progressives Congress (APC)?

My parents and I have always been progressives. My dad was an Awoist. My elder brother was an ardent believer of the late Pa Awo to the extent that he made an album and titled it: “Dedicated to Chief Awolowo, the Asiwaju of Yorubaland.” So, we have always belonged to the progressives’ camp.

Let me tell you a story. My dad was a prophet and a Bishop. He used to move from street to street preaching. One day, he told people that there should be no election and that they should hand over power to Awo, if they wanted peace in the land. Many people, including his children, laughed at him. Was he not right? You can see what is happening. I believe that in a country, God always sends a messiah. He sent Mandela to South Africa, to stop apartheid.

Awo was supposed to be our messiah, but they never allowed him to be. That is why we are in this mess. So, from UPN, AD, AC, ACN to APC, we have always been there.

Why are you vying for the Sen-

ate?

Since I am a lawyer, I feel I will be more useful to the grassroots as a senator. I love to be at the top, so that I can help the people at the grassroots. I will support the laws that will affect them positively.

Given that most members of the Upper House are men, do you think you can make a difference?

I will ensure that my voice is not silent. When I believe in a cause, I don’t give up. As a Iawyer, the Senate would be a familiar terrain.

What bills are you likely to support?

For example, if the Senate decides that a woman should be president, I will support it. There are (were) women presidents/ prime ministers in Liberia, India and others.

That means, women-friendly bills?

Yes. What other bills will you push?

Gender equality bill, poverty alleviation bill for the masses, free education at all levels and social security bill for them too. In Britain and Libya, the masses are paid social security allowance. I will ensure that Nigerians are also paid.

In your poster yet to be released, you listed character, representativeness and goodwill as attributes you will uphold. Can you expatiate?

The representativeness means I will represent the masses very, very well because I started from a humble beginning and I know what it feels to be poor. I will not be cut off from the people.

On goodwill, I have a pleasant disposition towards people, even those I have not met. And though it is not good for one to praise oneself, I know that I have a good character.

Assess the Senate’s performance The senators are trying. But I believe they can do better.

The masses?

They are not asking for too much.

All they want are good roads, food, electricity, education and water. But, as it is, they are suffering. When I see some situations, my heart bleeds.

Advice to leaders Our politicians should get it right. They should not see politics as a do-or-die affair. They should have the love of the people at heart.

HEALTH

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

45

THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

‘Kidney failure can be prevented’ Kidney failure is a major health issue in Nigeria.

OYEYEMI GBENGAMUSTAPHA and WALE ADEPOJU writes that though the risk is higher with ageing, it can be prevented.

A

S the country marked the World Kidney Day last Friday, Nigerians have been called upon to go for routine medical checks for diabetes and high blood pressure to prevent kidney diseases.

This year’s theme was: “Chronic kidney disease and ageing.”

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the progressive loss of kidney function over months or years. In its early stages, the disease produces no symptoms and is treatable. But in more advanced stages, patients can require dialysis and kidney transplants.

According to an interventional nephrologist, Dr Emmanuel C. Anekwe, kidneys can be affected or damaged by various diseases, but early detection would go a long way in preventing chronic damage as a result of diabetes mellitus.

“Age increases the risk of problems with the kidney, such as inflammation or swelling of the kidneys, diabetes mellitus, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence and renovascular disease.

Kidney problems can also increase the risk of other conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Early detection and good management can increase the life of your kidneys,” Dr Anekwe said.

He continued: “Generally, the biggest reason why kidney diseases are on the increase in Nigeria is because most people are being more western lifestyle. And with it comes the cost, especially diet, which leads to Diabetes mellitus. The preponderance of kidney diseases in Nigeria is exponentially high.”

He noted that diabetes, high blood pressure and ageing are the main risk factors for developing chronic kidney disease.

A World Health Organisation (WHO) Advisor on prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, Pedro Orduñez, also noted that: “Being physically active, not smoking, having a healthy diet that’s low in salt and sugar, and getting blood pressure checked regularly can prevent hypertension and type II diabetes. And if one has diabetes or hypertension, keeping those under control can prevent them from damaging the kidneys.”

Anekwe while identifying other risk factors for kidney disease said: “Some conditions that affect the kidneys and urinary tract are more common as people get older. A person is more at risk of developing kidney disease if over 60 years of age; have diabetes; is obese; have high blood pressure; have established heart problems (heart failure or past heart attack) or have had a stroke; or if he is a smoker; have a family history of kidney disease or of Aboriginal.”

He said to detect CKD, experts recommend blood and urine tests, and blood pressure checks, especially in high-risk groups including people with diabetes or hypertension, those over 65, people who have suffered a heart attack, those with

•Dr Anekwe

relatives who have had kidney disease, smokers, and sedentary people.

“Simple, low-cost treatments that can slow the progress of kidney disease and reduce the risks of heart attack and stroke while improving quality of life are available,” said Anekwe.

Meanwhile, a Consultant physician/nephrologist at St Nicholas‘ Hospital, Lagos, Dr Ebun Bamgboye said there is the need to raise awareness on early detection.

He said the ailment is a common problem in Nigeria.

Dr Bamgboye said: “It is recommended that kidney screening should be done yearly.The individual in the early stage of CKD

tends to pass out urine more frequently. He may visit the toilet three or four times at night. After that the urine volume starts to decrease. Then the urine starts to foam. This is due to a lot of protein in it. And it is one of the earliest signs of damaged kidney. Then the face and feet start to swell. The individual can have loss of appetite, nausea and hypertension.”

Some of the reasons, according to Bamgboye, are because the country has an aging population and the rampant nature of the conditions causing the ailment.

He identified diabetes as the most common cause of CKD, adding that hypertension, which is estimated at 35 per cent in the coun-

try and chronic infections are other causes among Nigerians.

He said Hepatitis is another major cause. About 15 per cent of Nigerians, he said, are affected by hepatitis B. Bamgboye, President, Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN), said though there was no national data on CKD, about 16,000 Nigerians, representing less than one per cent of the estimated 167 million population, could be suffering from CKD. “This figure will end up requiring renal replacement therapy, which can be dialysis or a transplant,” he added.

He said, according to NAN’s statistics, there are 74 registered dialysis centres across the country.

About 2,000 patients according to Bamgboye access dialysis at the centres, adding that the shortfall was huge.

This, he said, was not good for kidney patients who are at the end stage because they could die if they do not get dialysed.

“Many died because they didn’t get prompt diagnoses or didn’t have access to a place where dialysis can be done,” he said.

He urged the Federal Government to fund the treatment of end stage renal disease (ESRD) as obtained in developed countries.

“The United States spends about $42 billion yearly on renal care.

Of this, $20 billion is spent on dialysis and transplantation. Nigeria should be able to provide some funds for ESRD,” he noted.

He said government could provide 20 centres where kidney screening can be carried out by NAN members.

“Prevention due to early screening and detection should be the focus. The predisposing factors such as hypertension and diabetes should be prevented.Governments in many countries across the world are subsidising the cost of dialysis, Nigeria should not lag behind.

“NAN has looked at various measures that can help to reduce the charges. We want to explore the possibility of manufacturing locally, some of the drugs. I know the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) now supports certain number of sections of dialysis. I think the section is six, but NAN is trying to see if it can be extended by three,” he stated.

Dr Bamgboye said “the association is concerned about some dialysis centres in the country which are not appropriately staffed and supervised. Dialysis is invasive, so patients can get infected and also lose blood.”

Kidney transplant patient relives experience Coming down with end stage renal failure is not the end of life. A retired police officer who survived kidney transplant recounts his experiences to WALE ADEPOJU.

W

ITH a grin on his face, Mr Bartholomew Osuji, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), recounted his journey to the land of the ‘dead’, and how he survived the experience of being an end stage renal failure patient.

He said: “I enjoyed good health as a police officer for so many years until I had an encounter with a gang of armed robbers. Kidney disease is something we never experienced in my family. How I came about it only God knows?”

Osuji said his case began while on duty, saying: “As a senior officer, you are expected to do incident duty. While on an incident duty at Anthony Village, a suburb of Lagos, I was attacked by armed robbers. I was alone in the car because I had permitted my men to go and get water to drink at a nearby kiosk. That was at about 11pm, in 2008. The robbers opened fire on the car I was in. But God is so good I was unhurt. I managed to call out on my men and we returned fire. One of the robbers was killed, but the rest escaped.”

Mr Osuji, a catechist with Church of Assumption, Falomo, Ikoyi, said three days after the incidence he started feeling unwell. He said he went for check up and the doctor said he was in shock.

Another examination with a dif-

ferent doctor proved the same, as the doctor said it was shock from the gunshot. “I tried different hospitals, hoping to get a different result, but all said it was the shock I was experiencing,” he said.

He continued:“But the story changed later from shock to hypertension and hypertension to kidney failure. This was confirmed at Reddington Hospital, Lagos in 2009, although the incident happened in 2008.”

He said the worse could have happened if his family and the Church of Assumption, Falomo, Ikoyi had not flown him to India for a kidney transplant. “I thank God who brought me out of the land of the dead to the land of the living. The people, who donated money for my treatment, I don’t even know. The Reverend Father just contacted some of them that one of his catechists needed their help and they helped,” he said.

Osuji said the police did not played a part in his treatment.

“They said I didn’t take any paper from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Police Affairs before I travelled to India. But I was flown to India unconscious and incapacitated. My son went to Abuja while I was in India, but they didn’t do anything to help me,” he said.

He said his wife went through a lot agony for about eight months prior to his transplant trying to get

help without success. “But I was always encouraging her that nothing happens without God knowing about it. And that if we believe and trust God, he would help us. And God did.”

He was full of thanks to Reverend Father Innocent Opuga, who contacted the parishioners to raise money for his treatment.

He couldn’t do much by himself again, adding: “I was warned not to engage in strenuous tasks again.”

He lamented about the cost of drugs, describing it as “expensive and beyond the reach of a common man.”

He said he usually takes five different drugs daily as instructed by the transplant doctors.

Osuji said he must have a compulsory medical check yearly in India, which costs N1.6 million ($10,000), including travelling expenses and drugs. “So, by September I have to be in India again. Some parishioners who know me have already been asking me when my next check up would be,” he added.

He said doctors in India advised he has a check up every fortnight but he was only able to go monthly because of fund at St Nicholas Hospital, Lagos.

Calling on the Federal Government, he said many Nigerians had died in India before their transplant.

He said the government should establish a centre where kidney pa-

•Osuji

tients can have transplant. “Many of our doctors are on course in India. So, the government can transfer the technology to our country to save the lives of patients,” he added.

Osuji said there was a doctor whose clinic was in Ikeja, a suburb of Lagos, who tried to get the government to establish a centre but nothing came out of the effort he made.

Osuji accused the police of not providing regular medical checks for its officers and men. This, he added, is why many die suddenly.

“At Solomon Barracks, no fewer than three offices have died since I returned from India,” Osuji said

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

46

NEWS

‘I complied with all regulations as CBN governor’ Continuation of Central Bank of Nigeria’s suspended Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi’s response to querries on his tenure chase this investment. iii. It is worthy of note that in the letter seeking Mr President’s approval for the investment, it was stated explicitly that all the member central banks were treating their investment as part of their external reserves. iv. It was also alleged that, till the date of the issuance of the Briefing Note (7th June, 2013), the CBN had not received its share certificate for the apex Bank’s investment in the IILMC. However, the said share certificate, dated 6th April, 2013, has indeed been received and is hereby annexed as Annexure O. 26. Non-adoption of IFRS Standards Briefing Note Allegation 26: that the CBN did not comply with the IFRS accounting standards in preparing its 2012 financial statements.

Response: i. It has been and remains a cardinal policy of the CBN to comply with statutory requirements and policy guidelines of regulators. In recognition of the peculiar nature of the CBN as a central bank and its peculiar responsibilities, its migration to the IFRS would require extended time to comply with the Act. ii.

In view of this reality, I wrote the FRCN via a letter dated 14thFebruary 2013, requesting for a temporary exemption to allow the CBN prepare the 2012 financial statements based on the existing financial reporting framework. iii. The FRCN waived the requirement for the CBN to comply with the IFRS standards in preparing its 2012 financial statements by its letter of exemption dated 26 February 2013. See Annexure Pfor the FRCN’s letter. iv. In January 2010, the published Report of the Committee on the Roadmap for the adoption of IFRS in Nigeria (the Roadmap), allowed Public Interest Entities, in the nature of CBN,to delay the adoption of the IFRS financial statements until 31 December 2013. See Annexure Q for the Roadmap.It is probably for the same reason the FRCN itself did not prepare its audited financial statements in accordance with IFRS for the year ended 2012. v. It is worth noting that very few Central Banks in the world are able to comply with IFRS due to a number of factors peculiar to the nature of central banking, especially in the following areas: a. Accounting for Change in the value of Gold reserves. b. Management of government foreign exchange reserves and exchange rate fluctuations. c. Disclosure challenges around monetary policy interventions and its activities as lender of last resort to financial institutions, and guarantor to government borrowing. d. Valuation of assets held in foreign currencies. e. Challenges around weekly Treasury Bill sales. f.Management of years of deficit after surplus has been transferred to the government in the year of surplus. g. Funding government deficit financing as enshrined in section 38 of the CBN Act 2007.

27. Non-Compliance with ITF Act Briefing Note Allegation 27: that the CBN failed to comply with the ITF Act by not paying the mandatory one per centum of the amount of its annual payroll to the ITF. Response: i. The CBN, at the time, contested in court its obligation to pay one per centum of its payroll to the ITF on the ground that the CBN is not engaged in commerce or industry, which under the ITF Act is the basis for an employer to make payments under the ITF Act. ii. However, upon further considerations, the matter was amicably settled

by the CBN and ITF. The CBN has duly complied with the ITF Act and has paid all levies up to the 2012 financial year.

See Annexure R, which bears this out.

28. AUDITING Briefing Note Allegation 28: that the joint auditors of the CBN’s financial statement did not certify that the accounts give a true and fair view of the financial position of the CBN as at 31 December 2012.

Response: i. Without any iota of evidential proof, and in a most sweeping statement,the FRCN Briefing Note alleged that the joint auditors’ opinion was a technical qualification; that the accounts should not be relied upon for decision-making. ii. To set the records straight, auditors do not certify accounts but only express opinions on the financial statements. iii. The joint auditors stated that the CBN’s 2012 financial statements were properly prepared and accorded with accounting policies and the provisions of the CBN Act 2007 and other applicable regulations. iv. The opinion, as expressed by our auditors, is consistent with what obtains in respect of central banks in a number of other jurisdictions. We enclose by way of example, a sample of opinions relating to the central banks of the United States of America, South Africa and Ghana. See Annexure S. The allegation made by the FRCN in relation to this aspect of the auditors’ report is troubling when viewed in this light.

29. Non-consolidation of accounts with Subsidiaries Briefing Note Allegation 29: that the CBN did not consolidate its account with those of its subsidiaries.

Response: i. The CBN does not have subsidiaries and the assumption that AMCON is a subsidiary of the CBN is wrong.

The shares in AMCON are held by the Federal Government as borne out by Section 2 of the AMCON Act. Furthermore, the accounting reporting period of the CBN is statutoryand does not coincide with that of AMCON. 30. Abridgement of Financial Statements Briefing Note Allegation 30:that the financial statement was highly abridged, with poor disclosures of transactions and events of a financial nature.

Response: ii. The financial statement cannot by any stretch of the imagination be described as “highly abridged”. Rather, all transactions in the financial statement were substantiated and were prepared in line with the CBN’s framework with all relevant notes, schedules and disclosures copiously made for clarity.

31. Non- Challance and AMCON’s Operations Briefing Note Allegation 31: that AMCON made a loss (after taxation) of N 2,439,701,422,000 (over N 2.4 Trillion) and also had a negative total equity ofN2,345,620,364,000 (over N 2.3 Trillion) at the end of 2011. The FRCN alleges that I should have brought it to the attention of His Excellency, Mr President, that a large portion of the AMCON bonds would be due for redemption by 31 December 2013 and that the inability of the Federal Government to fulfil the guarantee may affect the credit rating of Nigeria negatively. In other words, the CBN breached its statutory objects under Section 2(e) of the CBN Act by not drawing His Excellency’s attention to the matter.

Response: i.

A major achievement of the Central Bank was that the AMCON bonds in question that matured at the end of 2013 were successfully redeemed without any budgetary appropriation or call on the Federal Government to guarantee the repayment as referenced above. ii.

It must be emphasized that

AMCON bonds are not instruments issued by the CBN. On that score, it would be most inappropriate and against every known principle of standard accounting convention for the CBN to incorporate full disclosures on the maturity profile of AMCON’s bonds in its audited financial statements (balance sheet and notes). iii.

Rather, in accordance with international best practice, the CBN is only required to disclose in its accounts, the portion of the bonds held by it (the CBN). To this extent, the CBN made appropriate disclosures in the financial statements on the bonds it held as at 31 December 2012. See Annexure T – which is note 6 to the CBN’s 2012 financial statements showing the amount CBN has invested in AMCON bonds.

32. Non-approval of 2012 financial statement by CBN Board Briefing Note Allegation 32:that the date of the Board’s approval of the financial statements was not indicated or disclosed and accordingly, the response provided to the President’s request for clarifications indicated that the management letter on the financial statements was yet to be discussed by the Board Audit and Risk Management Committee.

Response: i. The financial statements were presented to the board and approved on 26 February 2013. The date of approval was stated clearly on the balance sheet page behind the signature of each of the directors. (See Annexure Ufor a board approval dated 26 February 2013 approving financial statements).Issues of a material nature requiring adjustments had been fully incorporated into the Financial Statement prior to presentation to the Board. ii. The items in the Management Letter were suggestions for improvement made by external auditors and these were subsequently considered by the Board Audit and Risk Management Committee and are being implemented by Management on an on-going basis.

33. Compliance with the PPA Briefing Note Allegation 33:noncompliance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act (PPA).

Response: i. The only issue that has been raised to the knowledge of the CBN, is that the CBN,over a period in the past,did not obtain ‘Certificate of No Objection’ from the BPP before awarding contracts. ii. On 11 August 2008 (before my tenure), the CBN wrote to His Excellency, President Yar’adua, requesting for certain exemptions in CBN’s procurement process.See Annexure V.On 20 August 2008, the President gave his approval to the CBN’s application. See Annexure W. iii. In line with this approval, the CBN continued to approve its contracts in full compliance with the Public Procurement Guidelines, with the only exception that it did not apply for a ‘Certificate of No Objection’ based on the Presidential waiver. iv. It should be noted that the CBN’s own procurement process is more or less identical to the procurement process under the Public Procurement Act(PPA). Indeed, the BPP has had occasion to write in the past commending the CBN’s commitment to transparency and making recommendations for further improving the process. See Annexure X. v. In the course of the CBN interaction with the BPP on this subject, we provided an explanation by way by a letter of 11 August 2013, informing the BPP of the Presidential waiver. After an exchange of correspondences between the CBN and the BPP on this issue, the BPP disagreed that the Presidential waiver constituted an exemption from the requirement to obtain a Certificate of No Objection and insisted that the CBN should start doing so. vi. The CBN, out of an abundance

•Sanusi

of caution, immediately began to obtain Certificates of No Objection in respect of subsequent procurements within the stipulated threshold. In this regard, the CBN did obtain Certificates of No Objection dated 17 December 2013, 31 December 2013 and 14 February 2014. See Annexure Y [A-D] for these.It is important to note that the contracts for which these Certificate of No Objections were issued were approved based on the same process that apply to all the other contracts approved by the Bank. This, in itself, is testimony that the Bank has always complied with the provisions of the Act. vii. It is also important to note that in October 2013, the BPP-appointed consultant (Messrs SadaIdris& Co) also gave the CBN a good bill of health after reviewing the bank’s procurement processesfor 2010and2011.See Annexure Z. In its final report, the consultant in fact mentioned that the CBN satisfactorily complied with the provisions of the PPA. viii. Furthermore, the CBN has facilitated compliance with the provisions of the PPA by making it a requirement for entities seeking to access the CBN Intervention Projects Fund, to comply with the PPA and to obtain a Certificate of No Objection to Contract Award, where required. See Annexure AA for the BPP Letter of No Objection of 12 October 2010in relation to procurements by the Nigeria Police Force.

34. Unlawful Expenditure on CBN Intervention Projects Briefing Note Allegation 34: that CBN Interventions in areas like Education,Community, etc. are unlawful.

Response: i. A principal focus of the CBN Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy in the last decade (even before my tenure) has been the Educational sector in Nigeria. The CBN Act lists its objects, functions and prohibited activities, and the Board is empowered to approve the budget and formulate policies of the CBN. The Intervention Projects mentioned are CSR interventions that fully comply with the CBN Act and were duly approved by the Board. ii. It is worth noting that the CSR policy of the CBN is consistent with the activities of many other central banks of developing countries including, Bank Negara Malaysia, the Bank of Namibia, the Bank of Botswana and the Bank of Indonesia. iii. The Federal Governmentof Nigeria has been aware, supported and encouraged the CBN intervention projects, in recognition of their positive contribution to development. iv. During the recent strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities(ASUU), the CBN intervention projects in universities were an important fulcrum in the settlement negotiations between the FG and ASUU as borne out in the Memorandum of Understanding between the FG and ASUU, where the Intervention Projects were recognised as part of the contributions of the FG to Education in tertiary institutions. v. Furthermore, the FG standing committee on the Implementation of Needs Assessment of Nigerian Public Universities requested that the CBN channel a portion of its annual budget to the identified projects. See Annexure

BB- TheInterim Report of the Technical Sub-committee of the Committee on the Implementation on Needs Assessment of Nigerian Public Universities. vi. A major aspect of the CBN intervention projects is the Centre for Excellence, which are not merely physical structures. The CBN entered into Memoranda of Understanding with partner Universities to develop a holistic and multi-faceted scheme which includes the establishment of Centres for Excellence under which the CBN would, in the principal areas of Economics andFinance, fund the endowment of Professorial Chairs, create access for Nigerian students to participate in virtual and remote learning with foreign tertiary institutions like Harvard, Princeton, Oxford Universities, and special programs for students of Business and Economics. In this regard, the CBN is in the process of establishing Centres for Excellence across the geo-political zones of the country including: Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria •University of Nigeria, Enugu •University of Ibadan, Ibadan •Nigeria Defense Academy, Kaduna •University of Lagos, Lagos •University of Maiduguri, Borno •University of Port Harcourt, Rivers •University of Jos, Plateau •Bayero University, Kano vii. Consistent with our policy of development, upon the instruction of His Excellency, the President, the CBN intervened by paying N19.7 Billion to the Ministry of Police Affairs for the purchase of armoured helicopters and other security equipment. viii. Also, upon the application of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the CBN paid N2.1 Billion for the automation and renovation of the Federal Executive Council Chamber. See Annexure CC. ix. The CBN also initiated, with His Excellency, the President’s approval, the construction of the International Conference Centre for Nigeria. See Annexure DD. x. His Excellency, the President, also requested that the CBN pay N3.2 Billion for the construction of a new counter terrorism centre for the office of the National Security Adviser.See Annexure EE. xi. The FRCN itself is a beneficiary of the CBN’s intervention policy as the CBN paid the sum of N220 Million to the FRCN and also organised the banking sector, through the Banker’s Committee, to payN280 Million, totalling a sum of N500 Million, for the construction of the IFRS Academy. See Annexure FF. xii. All of these requests were duly submitted to the CBN Board of Directors and were duly approved. xiii. It is also important to emphasise that the grants under the Intervention Program were duly budgeted for, and made on a limited and selected basis. xiv. Intervention in National Security: At the height of security uncertainties in Nigeria, the Ministry of Police Affairs petitioned His Excellency, the President, for access to the CBN Intervention Fund. His Excellency approved that this be done in his letter of 6 October 2010 referenced MPA/PSD/ S/0243. See Annexure GG. The CBN Board of Directors then reviewed and approved this request. See Annexure HHfor the issuance of a grant by the CBN from the Intervention Fund to the Nigerian Police Force, for the procurement of: •Armoured Helicopters, • Armoured Patrol Vans, • Anti-Riot Equipment; • Hand held Communication Equipment.

35. Akingbola Petition &the N40 Billion Loan Waiver Allegation 35: attached to the my letter of suspension was a petition written by the former Managing Director of the defunct Intercontinental Bank Plc (ICB now Access Bank Plc)- Erastus Akingbola (MrAkingbola), on an alleged waiver of a N40 Billion loan to a Nigerian bank.

Response: Before responding to the allegation, (To be continued)

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

47

THE NATION

BUSINESS

TRANSPORTATION

E-mail:ynotaderibigbe@gmail.com

Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) Chairman Alhaji Bamanga Tukur resumed penultimate Monday, with a tour of the corporation’s Lagos office. He unveiled his plan after the tour, ADEYINKA ADERIBIGBE reports.

•Passangers anxiously awaiting better days

Railway...Time for fresh air?

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LL EYES were on Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, chairman of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) when he resumed work penultimate Monday. He swung into action, visiting some sections to ascertain the state of things at the corporation.

He was accompanied to the NRC compound in Yaba, Lagos Mainland Local Government Area, by the Managing Director, Prince Adeseyi Sijuwade.

The Director, Mechanical, Electrical and Signals, Mr. Fidet Okhiria, took Tukur first to the Running Shed, where all serviceable locomotives plying the rail lines are checked before being rolled out. At the shed, engineers and artisans were fixing three locomotives, two of which are used in running the Iddo to Ijoko, Ogun State shuttle. The third locomotive shuttles between Lagos and Kano.

Materials, such as brake pads, rollers and others, are fixed at the shed. Scraps are disposed.

Tukur checked the battery room, where all batteries used by the engines are charged.

Okhiria said each engine needs 72 volts power to move, adding that engineers at the unit are charged to ensure that the batteries are adequately charged before embarking on any trip.

At the laboratory room, Tukur was told that the unit is charged with ensuring that appropriate temperature is maintained by the locomotives during their trips.

He was also at the worksyard, which Okhiria described as the “heartbeat” of the NRC. Its only modern equipment is a self-propelled 60-ton crane. Okhiria said the crane has made the recovery of broken down or obsolete rolling stock abandoned across the country easier. NRC, he said, has two of such cranes.

The cranes, which he said could lift a locomotive simultaneously for repair, are also fixed with sensors that could make them immovable wherever they sense a broken or uneven lane.

Okhiria said the railway could do with eight more of such cranes. He said if one could be stationed in each of the eight divisions of the railway, the turn around time of getting to areas of distress would be reduced and the railway’s efficiency and speed would tremendously improve.

“Mr. Chairman, if we get a distress call at

Minna, it would take this crane two days, moving from Lagos, to get there, clear the obstruction and make the lane moveable.

That would greatly improve if we have a crane stationed at Minna, Offa or even Kaduna.”

He said accidented rolling stocks were being recovered across the country, adding that the corporation has moved as far as Dagbolu in Osun State, and would comb the paths to Kano to recover obsolete properties.

The tour was an “eye opener” for Tukur, who learnt that the corporation committed some blunders in the past. One of such was the purchase by the late Gen. Sani Abacha of three locomotives from China.

Showing Tukur the unserviceable carcass of one of the locomotives, abandoned at the running shed, Okhiria said it went bad within a year of use, adding that its parts are unserviceable due to the engine’s poor quality.

“We have learnt from our past mistakes.

We specifically instruct our suppliers to get us engines made in America, Britain, Germany or Russia,” Okhiria said.

Addressing reporters at the boardroom, Tukur described the tour as an “eye opener” which has enabled him to know the enormity of his assignment.

He said he was prepared to tackle the rot and make the railway an institution that Nigerians would be proud of.

Tukur listed his achievements at the Nigeria Ports Authority, where he served as the Managing Director in the 70s. He said if he could give the nation 18 new ports within five years, he could do more for the Nigeria Railway.

He said his tenure should be measured not by the improvement in the local shuttles and interconnectedness of the rail system

across the country, but by his ability to launch a system that could link Africa by rail line.

“We have heard of plans by China to build a rail line that would link China to France.

There is nothing stopping Nigeria from taking the lead in linking Nigeria to Johannesburg in South Africa, or to Dar-es Salam in Tanzania, or to Cairo in Egypt, Northern Africa. There is nothing wrong if we capture the West African sub-region and be in the forefront of linking our people on the West Coast. It is an ambitious dream but that is the kind of spirit with which I have come to take up this assignment,” he said.

His dream, he said, may not be achieved unless the Nigeria Railway Act 1955 is amended. He added that the proposal before the National Assembly would be followed up, to ensure that an amendment that can reshape the over 100-year-old corporation is carried out.

“We are prepared to make the railway successful. We are ready to begin the process of unbundling the corporation; and just like the hurricane that we all saw when the electronics media was privatised or when telecommunications was unbundled, we are going to witness same in the railway sector.”

Tukur said he would ensure the participation of private investors in the railway, noting that this would not occur until a legroom is provided for them to operate.

“There are immense opportunities in the railway. When we finish with the amendment before the National Assembly, we would have created the opportunities for profitable investment in the sector. We have got to create a space for the private sector to participate. With the successful track record of this management in the past, the private

We are prepared to make the railway successful.

We are ready to begin the process of unbundling the corporation; and just like the hurricane that we all saw when the electronics media was privatised or when telecommunications was unbundled, we are going to witness same in the railway sector

sector would be willing to participate in this sector,” he addded.

But Tukur’s dreams risk being dashed by the poor state of rolling stocks available for the use of the corporation and a low staff morale. Other factors are corruption, ineptitude, and officialdom that have made the it difficult for the corporation to shed its toga of a federal corporation rather than a company primed for efficiency and profitability.

The trains servicing the transportation needs of 170 million Nigerians run on a narrow gauge, a colonial heritage that is worn in many parts, forcing the trains to operate at almost a quarter of installed capacity. This is said to be responsible for the high rate of derailments.

The NRC still uses decrepit locomotives, shabby cabins, worn coaches and wagons.

NRC has, on its fleet, 84 locomotives, 800 wagons, and 170 coaches. Of this, 29 locomotives, 250 wagons and 120 coaches are in working condition.

About 550 wagons, 50 coaches and 55 locomotives are in various obsolete stages.

President-General of the Nigeria Union of Railway Workers (NUR) Comrade Raphael Okoro urged Tukur to boost workers’ morale by acceding to their demands on enhanced welfare packages.

He sought the employment of more workers to strengthen the workforce, the dearth of which has stressed the workers whose strength he put at less than 1,000 across the country.

Okoro said a transformed railway would remain a mirage unless the management addressed fundamental issues relating to workers’ welfare.

Another worker, who pleaded not to be named, urged Tukur to improve workers’ welfare. “Our morale is at its lowest ebb.

Many of us are working under severe environment, an improvement on the condition of service would boost the morale of the workforce,” he said.

Corruption, stealing and selling of the corporation’s scrap stocks by workers, such as the case recorded in its Enugu station last month, are part of the problems of poor remuneration. There is also the need to make workers stop seeing the corporation as a federal institution, but as a company set up to make profit from its investments.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

BUSINESS MOTORING

The Volkswagen Centre in Lagos, renowned distributors of Volkswagen products, has unveiled some of its latest commercial vehicle range, including Amarok, Caddy, Multivan, Transporter and the 30-seater Crafter bus. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports

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OLKSWAGEN commercial vehicles are replica of the passenger cars and Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) models but fortified with technically advanced engines that deliver more power and less fuel consumption.

Built on a platform at the Pacheco factory in Buenos Aires, Argentina capital, the German engineered Amarok gets a classy, aggressive interpretation of the VW grille, a six-speed manual gearbox, low-range transfer box, permanent four-wheel drive, locking centre and rear differentials as well as the latest directinjection twin-turbo two litre petrol engine that delivers 118kw (160bhp), while the diesel 4WD delivers 90kw (122bhp) with traction/ stability control.

Head, Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen Centre, Lagos in his presentation of the new Volkswagen commercial range to the local automobile journalists, Mr Manish Daryanani, said the firm has consistently improved on its commercial range to give them edge over competitions.

The Volkswagen Amarok pick-up for instance, is particularly. “More than good enough to worry competitions such as Toyota, Nissan, Ford and Mitsubishi,” Daryanani swanked.

But what distinguishes the Volkswagen Amarok? Daryanani said the Amarok is Volkswagen’s first pick-up and a direct competitor to the ubiquitous Toyota Hilux.

The Volkswagen Amarok also sounds admirable when viewed against an unprecedented torque generated from its two-litre four-cylinder engine compared with either the Toyota Hilux’s 2.7-litre or three-litre or Nissan three-litre V6 and Ford/Mazda 3.2-litre fivecylinder.

And with a pair of turbochargers, the VW Amarok TDI420 delivers quick performance, good fuel efficiency and strong towing capability with low cost of maintenance due to longer service intervals (10, 000kms or six months).

Volkswagen’s reputation for quality interiors also translates to the Amarok despite its workhorse status. Though clad with hard plastics – for the sake of durability – Amarok has

•Amarok

Volkswagen Amarok: agile, efficient

•Interior of the car

the classiest dual-cab ute interior design thanks to instrument dials, heating and ventilation controls and an infotainment screen that clearly compares with Golf and Passat.

Unlike competitions, the (large) door bins of the Amarok, are carpeted and none of its rivals as yet has matched the satisfying door-closing thuds of the VW that enhances

its reputation for build quality.

The Volkswagen Amarok TDI420 comes in a choice of two trim grades: Trendline and Highline for the Nigerian market.

The Trendline feature highlights include fog lights, 4-speaker audio, leather gearlever, handbrake and multifunction steering wheel, Bluetooth with audio stream-

ing, 16-inch alloy wheels, full-size spare, electric side mirrors, and cruise control.

Highline additions include rear parking sensors, higher-grade audio with six speakers, stainless steel side steps and sports bar, chrome exterior touches, 17-inch alloy wheels with extended wheel arches, rear privacy glass, and dual-zone climate.

Couple with these is classy, aggressive interpretation of the VW grille, a six-speed gearbox, low-range transfer box, permanent four-wheel drive, locking centre and rear differentials, with the latest direct-injection, twin-turbo 2.0-litre engine with traction/ stability control.

The Amarok range is expansive to give it the broadest coverage against key competitors, comprising single cab chassis, single cab ute, dual cab chassis and dual cab ute, as well as a split of 4×2 (rear-wheel drive) and 4×4.

The Volkswagen Centre sales and marketing helmsman however listed some of the highlights of the Amarok as maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1,600 rpm; lowest fuel consumption and largest cruising range; safety features like Off-road ABS, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Stabilisation and widest load area between the wheelhouses (1.22 m).

Other distinctive features of the Amarok are lowest loading edge height within the competitive environment, high towing capacity of up to 2,800 kg at 12 per cent incline and most spacious headroom in class for front and rear.

VW’s reputation for build quality and reliability, Daryanani said, make Amarok a cause of worry for Toyota, Ford, Nissan and Mitsubishi.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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BUSINESS MARITIME

e-mail: maritime@thenationonlineng.net

How smuggling is hindering fishing policy

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IGERIA’S bid to be self-sufficient in fish production is being threatened by smugglers, The Nation has learnt.

Lagos and Ogun states are flooded with smuggled fish.

From Idi-Iroko to Owode, Alapoti, Atan and Sango Ota, all in Ogun State, smugglers are using bush paths to spirit fish into markets.

The smugglers, Idi-Iroko border sources said, are cashing in on the high price of fish, which is Nigeria’s cheapest source of nutrition and the most commonly eaten delicacy in many homes, to smuggle the item.

Some of the smuggled fish are Croaker, ‘Kote’, Titus and Sabalo.

The illicit fish business, the sources added, is booming because the Federal Government has discouraged fish importation.

The Minister of Agriculture and

Stories by Oluwakemi Dauda Maritime Correspondent

Rural Development, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, has put the total demand for fish in the country at 2.7 million tonnes, of which 800,000 tonnes are produced locally. The 1.9 million tonnes deficit, according to him, is met with imports.

He said 271 attacks were reported on vessels operating on the territorial waters between February 2009 and September, last year, adding that this led to a drastic reduction in the number of fishing fleet from about 230 vessels to 119 vessels, with only 10 firms in operation in recent years.

“In 2013, a total of 3.6 million juveniles, 36,000 bags of 15kg of feed and 200 water testing kits were provided to fishermen in 10 states, at a total cost of N1.5 billion.”

Adesina noted some illegalities in

fish importation and production, stressing that continued corruption in fish import had made Nigeria a dumping ground for fish.

He said fish importers have corrupted public officials to give licences away above their available cold room-warehouse capacities.

The minister said: “Fish importers are cheating and are not paying the amounts due to the government for licence. Even more worrisome is that there is no cold storage capacity in the country to keep 5.9 MT of fish.

“So, what is being imported and declared as fish? Allegations are rife of dubiousness among importers who declare fish for imports, but are actually importing other things, including cars.”

Adesina, however, said the government has not banned the import of fish.

He said: “It is important to make it clear that the government has not banned the importation of fish, as is being misinterpreted by unscrupulous fish importers.

“The Federal Government had at no time placed a wholesale ban on the importation of frozen fish into the country. The only fish being strictly regulated and put under prohibition from being imported without control, is farmed fish.”

Investigation revealed that the smuggled fish is kept on passenger buses and specially refurbished vehicles heading for Lagos and Sango area of Ogun State.

A fish trader at the popular Owode Market in Ado-Odo Ota area, who refused to give her name, narrated the reason they are dealing on imported fish from Cotonou. “I lost a lot of money when the vehicle bringing my rice to the town was impounded by Customs in December. The period was a very bad to me. But in February, my friend introduced me to the fish business and I decided to try it.

My experience is that there not much attention on fish like rice, and the profit we make on fish is higher than that of rice. The highest profit anybody can make on rice is between N100 and N150 per 50kg bag, while we make between N400 and N450 on 20kg cartoon of fish,” she said.

She said fish is a delicacy in the country and its demand is so high that ‘business people’ continue to travel long distances from inland towns and risk being arrested to smuggle fish in.

Every Thursday and Friday, she said many men and women flock to

Cotonou and other neighbouring countries to buy fish.

Investigation at Idi-Iroko revealed that there must be effective policing of all the paths leading to the border

by Customs to check the menace.

Customs, investigation revealed, also needs to do a lot to track down the fish smugglers and stop their illicit business by embarking on effective border patrol as the smugglers are using various vehicles to bring the items to town.

The former President, Nigeria Trawler Owners Association (NITOA), Mrs Margret Orakuwsi, said for a country with an estimated population of 174 million by 2015, the demand for fish would increase to 2.1 million metric tonnes (mt) and with an estimated production of 740,000 mt, there would be a shortfall in supply of about 1.4 million mt.

She said any further reduction in fish supply would cause the price to increase and this would affect Nigerians who depend on imported fish for animal protein to feed their families.

The image maker of the group, Manny Philipson, said: “The argument of exporting jobs abroad for what we can produce locally does not arise as, domestically, we cannot match the quantity, the Omega 3 healthy oils, or taste that imported pelagic fish provides.

“Rather than resorting to protectionism; we should encourage free trade, that is, support our local fishing industry to export more Nigerian prawns and use those export earnings to import cheaper, more abundant pelagic fish species.”

Terminal operators seek subsidy on freight for landlocked nations

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• Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mallam Habib Abdullahi (left) presenting a plaque to the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Diru Verheyen, during his visit to NPA in Lagos.

PHOTO: OLUWAKEMI DAUDA

Shipowners, stakeholders seek removal of waiver clause

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HE Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA) and other stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to remove the waiver clause from the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act (Cabotage Act of 2013).

This, they said, would improve the business of indigenous shipowners.

NISA Chairman Chief Isaac Jolapamo said over 50 per cent of firms have been shut due to the poor implementation of the Cabotage Law. He said NISA canvassed the position at the stakeholders’ meeting with the Minister of Transport, Senator Idris Umar, on policy guidelines for the granting of waivers under the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act 2003 otherwise known as the Cabotage Law. “The removal will help to address the plight of indigenous ship owners whose businesses have been damaged,’’ Jolapamo, said, adding that it was sad that indigenous ship owners were not doing well despite that they started business in Nigeria.

He urged the government to implement the report of the Presidential Committee on Development of the Maritime Industry to assist NISA. NISA’s Secretary, Capt. Niyi Labinjo, also called for the removal of the waiver clause, saying his colleagues members are owing banks over $3 billion (N480 billion).

The waiver clause, according to Labinjo, has been made more important by the Ministry of Transport to the detriment of the implementation of the Cabotage Law itself.

“I am alarmed at the kind of vessels that are granted waiver in Nigeria.

Instead of giving waivers to specialised vessels in consonance with the dreams of the initiators of the Act, we end up giving waivers to anchor handling and tankers which the Act did not envisage for waivers.

“In other climes, they do not leave the administration of waiver to be handled by the ever busy government officials like the Minister, Permanent Secretary or NIMASA, but rather, it’s an all-inclusive exercise where applications are received by the agency concerned and forwarded to the stakeholders who do the needful and make recommendations to the implementing agency which now carries out the recommended action,” Labinjo said.

In a related development, the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) has called for the establishment of an independent body to review all applications for import waivers and concession.

NANTS said the demand was meant to ensure transparency and

accountability.

The President of the association, Mr Ken Ukaoha made the appeal in a statement made available to reporters.

He said the policy could only be measured by its impact in promoting the common good.

“Weak institutions produce dysfunctional policies and dysfunctional policies only breed corruption, waste and retrogression, and this is what we are facing with the waivers and concessions,’’ it said.

The NANTS chief said the body would be drawn from the private sector, civil society, consumer associations, academia and representatives of relevant government agencies, such as the Ministries of Finance, Agriculture and the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council.

He said the use of waivers and concessions was one of the legitimate tools any government could use for economic development and poverty eradication.

“Waivers and concession could also be used as an instrument to regulate the economy like tariff. In principle, waivers and concessions themselves are not bad.

“By nature, waivers and concession are prone to abuse and that is why any serious nation ought to pay attention to the manner such instruments are administered,” he added.

HE Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) has urged the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to subsidise the landlocked countries’ transactions at the seaports.

The group said handling transshipment cargo for Nigeria’s landlocked neighbouring countries is not commercially viable.

STOTAN said the conditions under which NPA handled transshipment cargoes in the pre-port concession era were not favourable to the ports.

It said terminal operators would handle transshipment cargoes of the landlocked nations only if NPA was willing to pay the shortfall charged by shippers of the affected countries.

Its Chairman, Princess Vicky Haastrup, who spoke in Lagos, said that unless NPA was willing to subsidise the landlocked countrits’ transactions, her members would not have anything to do with their cargoes.

She said the rates which NPA charged the landlocked countries, including Chad and Niger Republic for the handling of the consignments, were too low .

“NPA as a government agency, was probably playing the normal

“big brother” role to the neighbouring African countries, but we are private people, we cannot do that ‘Father Christmas’ for anybody. If the land-locked countries are ready to pay the normal rates in cargo handling, we will be very willing to do business with them,” she said.

The STOAN chairman said the concessionaires at the seaports had achieved a lot in the past eight years of port concession.

“We are proud of our achievements at the ports these past eight years. We have done a lot. We have improved operation and modernised the ports. Before now, equipment and cargo availability were a huge challenge at the ports. Vessels had to queue endlessly to secure berthing space. The ports were run down, but the story is different. We have port terminals that Nigerians measures to port terminals in developed countries and that Nigerians can be proud of,” she said.

Haastrup also said the port environment is congested due to the activities of non-core port operations including tank farms which she said are “too close to the ports.”

Customs redeploys over 200 officers

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O fewer than 200 officers from the Tin-Can Island port have been redeployed by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Alhaji Dikko Abdullahi.

Sources said many of those affected were Assistant Superintendents of Customs.

“Two hundred officers at the level of Assistant Superintendents of Customs Grade two were redeployed, but I don’t know if it is as a result of the CGC’s visit to the port last week or not,” the officer

said.

Meanwhile, the Customs has vowed to take economic sabotage and national security serious.

Speaking at a meeting with leaders of freight forwarding associations at Tin Can port, Controller, Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), Mr. Tajudeen Olanrewaju, said cases of “cut and lock” would be treated as economic sabotage and national security threat, warning that any Customs officer who flouts the directive would be sanctioned.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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BUSINESS AVIATION

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Curb cargo pilfering at airports, operator urges

HE Federal Government has been urged to install high t e c h n o l o g y scanningmachines and close circuit television cameras at the export and import terminals to curb the rising incidence of cargo pilferage.

Managing Director of Hont Global Services Nigeria Limited, Humphrey Okonkwo, said many importers and exporters are worried over the lack of monitoring and pilferage of their cargoes at seaports and major international airports, especially when the goods are undergoing clearance and inspection by relevant agencies.

He said the old practice of ripping the cargoes open could be eliminated if the government acquires state-of-the-art scanners at the air and seaports, thereby eliminating the need for exposure and physical examination.

Stories by Kelvin Osa-Okunbor Aviation Correspondent

He told The Nation that in other parts of the world, cargoes are screened electronically without ripping them open, thereby eliminating pilferage.

Okonkwo said: “So, the government should put in place better technology and security system in place, I think pilfering at the airports and seaports can be eliminated.

“The installation of CCTVs is part of it and putting a standard security system in place and then tracking, these can be done.We advise that the government should install sophisticated scanning machines at the airports and seaports as one of the ways of checking pilferage of cargoes.”

He flayed the double charge regime policy at the ports, and urged

government to standardise tariff on import and export to make operations seamless .

He said: ”Our operations in Nigeria, particularly clearing our goods from the seaport is where our major challenges are. The charges, especially the terminal charges and handling charges, are so expensive.

“We do an open door policy in business where all these things are not been encouraged at the seaports in Nigeria.

“From experience, we have found out that there are a lot of hidden charges.

“After you have given your client quotation, you still incur a lot of hidden charges, charges that are not receipted, so, you can’t claim it back from your clients so with that, if the government can help us in standardising this process so that all those things can be eliminated, I think we should be fine,” he added.

‘Touting at airports major setback’ THE Commissioner of Police, Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command, Mr. Waheed Salau has decried the rising incidence of touting at the airport, saying it as a major challenge to the command’s operations.

Speaking during the decoration of 23 newly promoted officers of the command in Lagos, Salau said the police are making efforts to reduce the incidence of touting around the airport for effective operations.

He said: “The major challenge we have here is the touts and we have always kept them at bay, because they see the airport as a pot of honey but we will continue to do our best to send them out of this place and we are actually sending them out.”

Salau appealed to the Federal Government to provide high technology equipment to combat crime at the airport, stressing that since the world has become a global village the command needs enhanced technology to fight crime.

Salau, however, cautioned the officers to be disciplined and dedicated to duties, adding that they should see their promotion as an avenue to work hard and serve their father land.

While enumerating the duties of the Police Command at the airport to include protecting of passengers, keeping hoodlums at bay, prosecution of touts among others, Salau said the command was doing everything possible to ensure safety at the airport.

He said: “Well, at the airport, we perform all police duties; we protect the passengers, who are travelling and their luggage; we keep hoodlums away; we prosecute touts and other elements who come to the airport; we also control both human and vehicular movement, you can see that a lot of vehicles now pass through the airports, we are also saddled with that responsibility.”

One of the promoted officers, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Mr. Timothy Dosu said he was grateful to God and the InspectorGeneral of Police, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar as well as the Police Service Commission (PSC) for his elevation.

MMA2 gets new escalators

•From left: Manager, Trade Sales, British Airways, Mr. Ademola Sanya; General Manager, West Africa, British Airways, Mr. Kola Olayinka and Legal Adviser, Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, Afolake St. Matthew Daniel, at the briefing to announce the launch of the British Airways Leaders of Tomorrow, at Ikoyi, Lagos.

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

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NAMA loses N500m to non-payment of en-route charges

HE Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) loses over N500 million yearly to the non-payment of en-route navigational charges from domestic operators, The Nation has learnt.

But members of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) said they were not disposed to paying the rates because it would amount to multiple charges, adding that it is the practice in other parts of the world for operators to skip the payment.

However, NAMA’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Mr Supo Atobetele, said the refusal of domestic operators to comply with the payment is no longer acceptable as the Supreme Court last week gave judgment mandating the agency to the charges.

He urged domestic carriers to commence the process of liquidating their outstanding bills of more than N4billion on en-route charges.

He reminded the airlines that the agency had been consistent in providing quality air navigation services, urging them to play their role by paying their bills regularly “as free launch is now over”.

He said the “self-sustaining”

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

agency requires a lot of funds to run the system and create a peaceful industrial harmony through training of personnel and regular payment of salary.

He said: “NAMA, on record loses an average of N500milllion accruable revenue annually, following the refusal of the domestic carriers to honour bills on en-route services as they often claim to have ‘godfather’s right’ to evade payment. ‘’From the beginning of this case in 2006,we have chosen not to disrupt the activities of the airlines, even when the Appellant Court in Lagos, gave us the power to collect our charges.

“We were patient enough not to rock the boat and that is why we followed it up to the apex court with the AON, and last week, the panel of judges in a unanimous decision, dismissed the appeal in our favour. This victory is part of the transformation agenda of the Federal Government, and we really give kudos to the jurists who in their wisdom delivered this landmark judgment for the aviation sector to move forward.”

Meanwhile, the newly appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, Engr.

Ibrahim Abdulsalam has formally taken over the helm of affairs of the agency from the outgoing Managing Director, Engr. Mazi Nnamdi Udoh.

The brief ceremony took place last week at NAMA headquarters in Lagos.

In his remarks at the event, Engr.

Nnamdi Udoh charged management and staff of NAMA to extend the same hand of fellowship and cooperation which saw to the numerous accomplishments of his tenure to his successor.

He recalled that in two years, he achieved several safety critical feats including migration to area radar control, which could not have been possible without the support and cooperation of the entire staff. ‘’I personally implore the staff to support the new managing director who is one of us and professionally sound to handle the affairs of the agency and take it to a greater height in the provision of quality air navigation services’’,Udoh counseled the workforce.

TO change the face of terminal operations and bring the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2) to world standard, BiCourtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operator of MMA2, has begun the installation of new escalators at the terminal.

Besides, the firm says its Multi-Storey Car Park (MSCP) has been automated to make the use of the facility easier. MMA2 is the only airport terminal in the country with an MSCP, which can accommodate about 800 parked cars at once.

BASL’s spokesman, Chief Steve Omolale, said two new Mitsulift escalators are being installed to replace the old ones at MMA2, adding that this was part of the infrastructure renewal scheme embarked upon by the firm in the terminal.

It further said Bi-Courtney has positioned some of its employees close to the installation sites to inform and assist passengers and other airport users to ensure a hitch-free exercise.

The statement added: “Such employees, who adorn orange-colour reflective jackets are strategically positioned close to the escalator landing to courteously direct passengers and airport users to use other alternative routes within the terminal to their destinations, while the multimillion dollar project is ongoing. We, therefore, appeal to all airport users to follow their instructions, while we will do all that is humanly possible to complete the installation sooner than expected.”

ICAO downgrades Sierra Leone Int’l Airport THE International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has downgraded Freetown Airport, Sierra-Leone after it found that the airport lacked fire cover following the breakdown of its only functioning fire tender vehicle.

As a result, international airlines have cancelled their flights to Sierra Leone until the airport is re-certified by ICAO. The top two international carriers to the West African country – British Airways and Kenya Airways – cancelled flights indefinitely since yesterday as a result, leaving several passengers stranded.

“We are working very hard to fix the faulty gearbox system of the fire engine and to add to the fleet,” general manager of the Sierra Leone Airports Authority, John Sesay, assured.

The ICAO could not immediately be reached for comments.

United Nations’ Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is visiting the West African country this week to oversee the closure of its peacekeeping mission, following an 11-year civil war that ended in 2002.

Its tourism industry is only slowly recovering, but thousands of foreign workers are employed in Sierra Leone in the gold and diamond mining sectors.

Etihad Airways to acquire 18 aircraft

ETIHAD Airways plans to introduce 18 new aircraft, including its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A380 super jumbo, both of which are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter.

The airline has also signed an agreement to acquire five Boeing 777-200LR jets from Air India to help accelerate network growth.

In addition to new aircraft to accommodate traffic growth, Etihad Airways continued to invest heavily in new product .

Etihad has announced record financial results for last year, with net profit up 48 per cent to US$62 million on revenues up 27 per cent to US$6.1 billion.

The record performance also saw earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) up 22 per cent to US$208 million and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and rentals (EBITDAR) up 30 per cent to US$979 million, a margin of 16 per cent of total revenues.

This marked the third successive year of net profitability, in the airline’s 10th year of operation.

51

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS ENERGY

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

Nigeria has a very lengthy project and contract approval cycle, the longest in oil producing countries. Over the years, oil and gas firms have been confronting the menace considered by industry stakeholders as a major investment killer. The question is, when will the government address this disincentive in the industry? Assistant Editor EMEKA UGWUANYI reports.

‘Lengthy contract approval cycle increases U project costs’ NWARRANTED long contracting cycle is a stigma in the oil and gas industry. The multinational oil firms and local operators had, at various fora and workshops, decried the negative impact of the menace in terms of high cost of projects and loss of revenues to the government’s coffer.

The Chairman of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), a unit of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), made up of 20 oil firms, including the International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Nigerian oil companies, Mr. Mark Ward, identified the main issues confronting the industry as the funding constraints of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the lengthy project and contract approval cycle, under developed gas-to-power infrastructure, unresolved contractual issues, security concerns, vandalism and bunkering, as well as the global escalation in costs.

He criticised the undue contracting cycle, saying that a tender made by a contractor for a project expected to start in nine months, and lasting for three years without approval, is unhealthy. The implication of this trend, he stressed, is increased contract value and cost as a result of changes in cost of equipment and procurement, service and human capital that would be used in the project execution.

This development, some industry stakeholders agued, is the reason for increased project and contract variations, which have become commonplace in contract awards in the industry. Some oil firms at various times, have abandoned or suspended projects slated for execution. Some projects with contract cost of $500 million have ended up being completed at $1.2 billion or more, making project delivery the costliest in the world.

Besides, the delay in contract approval has led to shut-in of many projects, with avoidable loss of jobs desperately needed by Nigerians.

Depending on the size of the project, the contracting cycle, lasts for between 18 months and three years, against the maximum of six months in Angola, Brazil and Ghana, on the West Coast. As a result of criticisms against the development, the Federal Government set up the Nigerian Petroleum Exchange (NipeX). NipeX is an electronic transaction centre, a unit under the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), a subsidiary of NNPC, meant to improve procurement value and entrench world-class contracting processes in the oil and gas industry.

NipeX is an electronic contracting platform specifically established to abridge lengthy contracting cycle. The mandate of NipeX is to curtail the contracting cycle to nine months irrespective of the size of the contract. Since the establishment of NipeX about a decade ago, it has been making efforts to shorten contract approval, but these efforts are often undermined by the NNPC Board, which is the last stage in contract approval chain.

The IOCs and local operators, it was learnt, renewed their agitation for a change in this anti-economic and business approach in an enter-

prise governed by global guidelines and practices. An operator told The Nation that the contention between the government and the operators is that some contractors, after spending 15 months going through the processes, have been stalled for another 15 months because the NNPC Board has not been able to sit in the past 15 months to give its approval.

The operator told The Nation in confidence that in view of this development, oil firms have not only placed embargo on fresh employment, but may embark on reduction of their workforce, if as he reasons, no new project is coming.

The NNPC said it introduced fresh initiatives last year to tackle the long contracting cycle and the consequent high cost of delivering projects in the country’s oil and gas industry. The initiative, the corporation said, would ensure that the cost of delivering projects in Nigeria are in line with international best practices, adding that there would be an industry-wide standardisation of processes and evaluation mechanism for estimation of drilling and drilling services costs, using a common template across the IOCs. The initiative showed that personnel and common cost would also be standardised, while the NNPC would also benchmark the

costs of major projects in line with international best practices, indicating that oil and gas projects henceforth, will be ranked in three categories, A, B, and C. With the categorisation, projects that fall within category A would be for high networth firms with capacities, while proposals for selection would be in accordance with wellestablished selection principles.

“NNPC is working with the security agencies to address security issues identified to be major factors responsible for high cost of operations, especially in Nigerian waters. There should be a management of costs induced by lengthy contracting duration, through reduction of cycle time in our tender process by effective utilisation of the Nigerian Petroleum Exchange (NipeX) system,” NNPC said.

The corporation also said there would be a monthly performance monitoring of tender process, which will be a Key Performance Index (KPI), adding that it would ensure improved alignment with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) as part of tender cycle reduction initiative.

A source at NipeX said before the establishment of the electronic transaction centre, contracting cycle in the oil and gas industry usually last for about three years and the

implication was that in three years, costs can go as high as 100 per cent.

So, if you take three years to start a project and award a contract for that project, then by the time the project comes up, or is awarded, the cost would have gone up by four to five times its original value, and that was why we decided to set up an electronic system to handle the contracting process which would allow all stakeholders to handle the system electronically and reduce the time line.

“The objective of NipeX, initially was to reduce that time line from 36 to 24 months, to nine months and finally to four months. Currently, we are working the nine months timeline for some contracts,” the source added.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Ernest Nwapa, also attributed the long contracting cycle in Nigeria's oil and gas industry to lack of capacity on the part of indigenous contractors that bid for projects.

He said the contracting cycle from the period the contract is advertised to the period the contract is actually awarded, is about 18 months in the oil and gas industry, adding that in the Gulf of Mexico, North Sea and even in the neighbouring Angola, the contracting cycle is said to be about six months.

Nwapa, who addressed drillers in Lagos, explained that it would be difficult to conclude the process in a short time where over 200 firms

bid for one project.

He said part of the reason for the long process in Nigeria was that many firms that did not have capacity bid for projects. “Over 200 companies submit bids for a single contract and most of them are mere agents with no capacity to execute the job. It therefore takes a very long time to sieve through the companies," he said.

The Global Chairman, Energy and Natural Resources Sector, KPMG, Michael Soeting, in an interactive session with reporters in Lagos, also said the government should feel concerned about the long contracting cycle because it has serious impact on project cost, delivery time and value.

He explained that with discoveries in some West African and African countries, such delayed contract approval cycle will lead to diversion of investments from Nigeria to such countries.

He said when bids are submitted for projects and the contracting cycle and period of project delivery are timely and within budget, it retains value for the contractor and saves money for the project owner.

The fact is that the issue of undue long contract approval cycle has become an embarrassment to the industry and to the country, it being a problem that has been on the industry discussion table for over 10 years, yet it has remained unresolved, he said.

Operators said it was time the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke tackled the problem head-on.

Brig.-Gen. Abubakar Sodiq Maikobi Commandant, 9 Brigade, Nigerian Army, flanked by Mr Abiodun Ajifowobaje, MD/ CEO, Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (right) and General Manager, Customer Service, Ms Olubukola Ojurongbe (left).

With them is General Manager, Technical Service, Mr Olayinka Balogun, during a visit to the Brigade.

LPG marketers seek govt’s, NLNG’s intervention in cylinder, pricing

T

HE Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) has, once again, called on the Federal Government and the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited to provide affordable cylinder and create various pricing template for the domestic market to deepen consumption of the product.

NALPGAM President Mr. Basil Ogbuanu made the appeal at a briefing on the state of the sector in Lagos.

He said: “We want to renew our call on the Federal Government to see reason to intervene in the LPG industry. In the past, there

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

was a problem of supply, which has been solved by 90 per cent.

Today, this product is available courtesy of the government’s policy and NLNG’s intervention.

“Initially, NLNG intervened by making available 150,000 metric tonnes (MT), but it has increased to 250,000MT, following increased consumption.

“But we are still having two issues that militate against the deepening of consumption of LPG, which is the best and cleanest cooking energy in Nigeria. Number one issue is inadequate cylinder. Unlike kero-

sene that can be bought with any kind of container or can, LPG can only be bought with cylinder.”

The group appealed to the Federal Government to apply the Indonesian model, where the government bought cylinders and exchanged them with the people’s kerosene cooking stoves, or import standard cylinders and sell to Nigerians at affordable prices.

He said a standard 12.5kg cylinder sells at N8, 500, which many Nigerians cannot afford.

Therefore, the group urged the government to import and subsidise it to make it cheaper for the populace to buy.

Another option the group suggested is for the government to resuscitate the cylinder manufacturing firms in Ibadan and Abeokuta, which closed shops some years ago.

T he g r ou p a ppea l ed t o t he NLNG to establish a pricing template for local consumers, adding that the model of selling the product to them at international price, works against the campaign for increased consumption of the product.

Ogbuanu said the price of LPG is high at the international market because of winter and they pay the same price when there is no winter in Nigeria.

52

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

* The Environment * Mortgage * Apartments * Security * Homes * Real Estate Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com 08062722507

property@thenationonlineng.net muyiwalucas2002@yahoo.com

•Gas flaring... a factor in climate change

Global warming has continued to be of concern to all. But while some countries are curtailing the threat, the Lagos State government is exploring ways of transforming the menace to the environment to financial boom, writes Assistant Editor MUYIWA LUCAS.

Climate Change: From doom to boom?

D

RIVING into Ikorodu Road from either the LagosIbadan Expressway or the Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, can be quite discomfiting on some days.

The stench from the dumpsite at Ojota is enough to upset the respiratory system.

Residents on this corridor, which is also gradually turning into a commercial area, have for long had to cope with the offensive odour from the site. Notwithstanding, most traders in the area consider it good for business.

But in another part of the town, Ogba, it was a different scenario. Thirteen pupils of Ogba Junior Grammar School in Lagos were hospitalised recently after allegedly inhaling a poisonous chemical, which engulfed their school premises, bringing the need for man to protect his environment to the fore.

Senate Committee Chairman on Environment and Ecology Dr Bukola Saraki said climate change is becoming more difficult to ignore, even by the most-hardened skeptics. He noted that desertification is taking a toll on the north, threatening to deplete the major source of income for people living in that area, which is basically agriculture, and by extension putting food security at high risk.

Saraki observed that the changing weather patterns and continued lack of adequate rainfall has reduced the quantum of arable land for food production in the north, which is already the source of conflict between the Fulani herdsmen in the Middle Belt of the country, where the natural savannah grasslands are shrinking at such a rate that it has resulted in fierce competition for water and land for farming.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), between 1963 and 2010, Lake Chad shrank by as much as 95 per cent of its size, thereby placing the economic livelihoods of the over 30 million people living in the four border countries of the Lake and the Sahara Desert - Chad, Cameroon, Niger and Nigeria – on the precipe. Now, with insecurity, coupled with socio-economic instability, regions which have insufficient funds to fight the impact of climate change are the hardest hit.

Obviously realising the huge funding requirement to tackle the scourge, Saraki noted that funding for legislation change by global organisations is very important for a start. At a recent GLOBE Climate Legislation Summit, a key question brought to the fore, was on how global institutions can financially aid governments to develop and pass climate change laws.

“With tight government budgets, raising funds internally is a difficult task. Many believe that climate change is a long-term problem and can be dealt with ‘later’, but resources need to be found and need to be found now. So, GLOBE Nigeria welcomes support from organisations such as the World Bank and the UNEP,” Saraki said.

But the Lagos State government seems to have taken the

lead in this direction. The state, not wanting to be bogged by the scarcity of funds to tackle the climatic change, is looking inwards to see how the needed revenue can be generated from the environment itself. Therefore, as the impact of climate change persists on one hand, the positive side, on the other hand, is the throwing up numerous opportunities for investors, courtesy of a range of emerging profit-spinning prospects inherent in it.

The opportunities are what participants at the Sixth Lagos Climate Change Summit holding from today till Thursday at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, will attempt to explore. The state government, at this year’s edition of the annual Climate Change Summit, with the theme: “Exploring business opportunities in climate change: Lagos State in focus” hopes to sensitise the public on the investment opportunities in the sector, which is valued at over N170 billion, and assist them to partake of the opportunities.

While the state does not want to be seen as celebrating or advocating increasing emissions, the carbon market, estimated to be a multi-billion dollar business, has since tickled with the fancy of investment analysts, who argue that responding to opportunities might mean helping others to reduce their own vulnerability to extreme weather or other impacts of a changing climate.

Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment Tunji Bello explained the rationale for the business opportunities in climate change, which has largely remained untapped. He said there was likely to be an increasing demand for products and services designed to function in the new climate, citing the products that are heat resistant, robust, waterproof, moisture retaining or made from permeable material, as front runners in the direction given the country’s climatic conditions.

“Also, there are likely to be market opportunities for new or existing products or services that help others deal with the climate risk. For example by providing products or services that monitor or measure weather or impacts,” Bello said.

The commissioner revealed that the state’s Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) at its Olushosun Landfill Site at Oregun is converting waste to wealth by curbing carbon emission and producing gas from waste while national and state officials are also involved in the promotion of the Save80 Fuel Efficient Wood Stove, which reduces by 80 per cent the wood needed for cooking, thereby keeping the carbon sink and slowing the rate of desertification.

Bello noted that the initiative is part of the state being proactive to developments locally and globally. He revealed that the nation is operating several Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects approved by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) with one of such being the Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Composting Project in Ikorodu operated by EarthCare Nigeria Limited.

Submissions from previous summits have proved to be very helpful for the state, producing many recommendations which, on implementation, have helped to advance the state’s adaptation and mitigation capabilities to the impact of climate change. For instance, from one of the summits, the government some years ago, adopted July 14 yearly as its Tree Planting Day. It came under a programme aimed at planting millions of trees to beautify Lagos and also provide a carbon sink; over six million trees have so far have been planted under this scheme.

Similarly, the government has established the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) to beautify and regenerate the Lagos environment from the effect of climate change, in the light of the intensity of global warming that is threatening the entire ecosystem. This effort, it is believed, has placed the state among the notable green cities in the world today.

The state’s desire to be proactive was captured by Governor Babatunde Fashola, who is committed to tackling the global environmental scourge and the unsavoury impact of the climate change phenomenon in Lagos in particular, at the inaugural summit in 2009, when he said: “Gone are the days when we could succinctly draw a line between the rainy season and dry season; gone are the days when harvest was predictable and bountiful; gone are the days when select species of certain fish were readily available on the menu table.”

He has since been proven right with events that followed much later. For instance, on July 10, 2011, the heavens poured rain for 16 hours non-stop. Lagos experienced a torrential rainfall that was unprecedented in the history of the state.

Again, on February 13, 2012, an unprecedented storm with wind speed of between 75 and 100 kilometres hit the city, damaging many homes and several properties. The incident occurred in the middle of February, a month not usually associated with such an extreme weather condition.

Saraki believes that the country is not folding its hands hoping that the world will come to its aid.

“GLOBE Nigeria and the Environment Committee I head in the Nigerian Senate are working to put laws in place that will make climate change a high priority for the government and future governments to come,” the former Kwara State governor said, adding that the Bill for an Act for the Establishment of a Climate Change Commission is in its second reading in the Senate.

He is confident that when the Bill is passed, the Commission would serve as a place for working out targets towards achieving a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in Nigeria, and by extension, facilitate the early development of programmes that will enable Nigeria achieve a sustainable future.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

53

MONEYLINK

CBN laments rising cheque rejection

C

HEQUE truncation which commenced last June is being marred by rising cheque rejections at the Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) processing centres, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said.

In a circular to banks, CBN Director, Banking and Payment System, ‘Dipo Fatokun expressed the lender’s commitment to seamless clearing system. He said that as part of the global strategy towards an effective and efficient payment system, the Bankers Committee embarked on a number of initiatives to engender an efficient clearing system.

This, he said, would be achieved through a phased and subsequent automation of the entire clearing system in the country.

According to Fatokun, the Cheque Standard Administration Unit (CSAU) of the Banking and Payments

Citibank CEO advises youths on savings culture

T

HE Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Citibank Nigeria Limited, Mr. Omar Hafeez has advised the youths to imbibe savings culture by prioritizing their needs over wants.

The bank chief spoke during a visit to the Army Day Secondary School, Ikot Ansa, Calabar in Cross River State to mark this year’s Global Money Week and Financial Literacy Day. Hafeez who delivered a lecture at the school stressed the need for the youth to be financially aware and empowered to make monetary decisions. He reinforced the bank’s commitment to youth empowerment.

The bank, in a statement, said it conducted an interactive day session

Stories by Collins Nweze

System Department would ensure that cheques and other financial instruments conform with the standard stipulated in the Nigeria Cheque Standard and Cheque Printers Accreditation Scheme (NICPAS) handbook.

He said the major functions of the Cheque Standard Administration Unit include monitor compliance by the cheque printers to NICPAS serve as an enforcement unit for the banking industry. It could also, in respect of security document printing, serve as the clearing house for cheque stock ordering or delivery.

He said section 2.8 of NICPAS states that sample cheques must be sent pre and post production, as well as post personalisation, to the Cheque Standard Administration Unit, analysis and appraisal to ensure compliance to the standard.

•Acting CBN Governor, Dr Sarah Alade

According to him, accredited cheque printers are advised to submit 10 sample cheques, pre and post contract production, to CSAU. Also, banks are to submit samples of their personalised cheques to the same unit for assessment, and comprehensive report would be provided by the unit, within three working days of the submission, on cheque samples so assessed.

Wema Bank promotes gender inclusion in workplace

FirstBank partners NESG on summit

F

IRST Bank of Nigeria Ltd is supporting the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) to chart a new course for the education sector.

In a statement, the bank said the support will come at the 20th edition of summit starting today in Abuja. The Summit themed “Transforming Education through Partnerships for Global Competitiveness” is organized to deliberate on the role of the Nigerian education sector in the transformation of Nigeria. The event which is projected to drive consciousness and a more significant involvement of the private sector in the education space, whilst gaining the attention and interest of key stakeholders on the cen-

trality of education and learning for economic development and nation building will also focus on building national consensus on what is urgently required to rebuild, revamp and reinforce the education sector to secure Nigeria’s future and global competitiveness.

The President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan who is expected to declare the summit open will also lead a Presidential Strategy Session with eminent local and international personalities, which will focus on key strategic elements required to bring about the desired changes in the education sector.

According to the Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications,

W

EMA Bank at the weekend held a special Executive Management session. During the meeting, the participants discused pressing issues such as gender inclusion and equity in the workplace. The event was meant to commemorate this year’s Women Day. It was chaired by Mrs. Funke Irabor who acted in the capacity of Managing Director for the day. She spoke on “Discrimination: Creating an enabling environment for breaking glass ceiling by women in the workplace.”

Speaking after the special session, Irabor lauded the management of the bank for instituting womenfriendly policies. She advised fe-

FirstBank, Mrs. Folake AniMumuney “as a leading financial institution providing innovative services to our numerous customers, we are pleased to be playing an important role in helping to move our country forward through our support of the NESG summit which aims to aid the development of educational activities and in turn the transformation of the economy through manpower development”.

“At FirstBank, we remain committed to promoting thought leadership and driving the development of the educational sector through our support for players and regulatory authorities in the sector.

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

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

NIDF NESF

OBB Rate Call Rate

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 17-3-14

C/PRICE

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

CHANGE

STANBIC

19.50

20.35

0.85

FLOURMILL

76.00

77.95

1.95

ACCESS

7.51

7.70

0.19

STERLNBANK

2.20

2.24

0.04

ETERNA

3.80

3.85

0.05

NASCON

12.35

12.49

0.14

UBN

10.19

10.20

0.01

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

AFRIPRUD ASHAKACEM FIDELITYBK FO UNILEVER WAPIC BERGER OANDO CUTIX VITAFOAM

O/PRICE 3.57 16.16 2.18 104.00 47.00 0.80 9.48 16.15 1.83 4.28

C/PRICE 3.22 15.20 2.07 98.80 44.65 0.76 0.01 15.35 1.74 4.07

DISCOUNT WINDOWx 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%

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%

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 Offer Price

AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 156.27 ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.06 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.17 CANARY GROWTH FUND 0.69 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CORAL INCOME FUND 1,620.45 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 FBN HERITAGE FUND 115.83 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 INTERCONTINENTAL INTEGRITY FUND 1.05 KAKAWA GUARANTE ED INCOME FUND 143.11 LEGACY FUND 0.78 NIGERIA INTER DEBIT FUND 1,886.59 • • • •

CHANGE -0.35 -0.96 -0.11 -5.20 -2.35 -0.04 -0.47 -0.80 -0.09 -0.21

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

Name

LOSERS AS AT 17-3-14

SYMBOL

male staff of the bank not to see themselves at a disadvantage position despite what the society or various cultures might dictate. She therefore urged them to emulate the strides of women who are continuously breaking barriers in business, politics, and other spheres of life.

The bank’s Head, Human Capital Management, Olufunke Okoli, said the lender remains to addressing gender equity and building a representative workforce and management structure. She further reiterated the bank’s goal to achieve a minimum of 30 per cent representation at Senior Management levels subject to the identification of candidates with appropriate skills.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS Tenor

on financial literacy with the students of the school.

The event was organised in partnership with Junior Achievements of Nigeria (JAN), a financial education non-governmental organisation. It was focused on educating Nigeria’s youth about their economic environment whilst impressing upon them the importance of saving, entrepreneurship and financial value creation.

Also present at the occasion were the school Principal, Mrs. Tina Efiok; Vice Principal Mrs. Bassey Ewa; a JAN Volunteer, Mrs. Priscilla Clearence Uket among others. Global Money week is a yearly celebration commemorated across the world to enlighten the youths on financial matters.

UBA BALANCED FUND UBA BOND FUND UBA EQUITY FUND UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

Movement

1.2635 1.2893 0.9419 1.1499

Bid Price 155.84 9.08 1.05 1.17 0.68 1.33 1,618.47 1,000.00 115.13 100.00 1.62 1.03 142.62 0.76 1,883.42 1.2521 1.2893 0.9242 1.1499

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

54

THE NATION TUESDAY,MARCH 18, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT

17-3-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 17-3-14

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

55

EQUITIES

Bears tighten grip on Nigerian equities F IVE in every six price changes on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) yesterday ended in the negative as the latest downtrend at the stock market entered its fourth consecutive trading session. Average return was -0.74 per cent, depressing the average year-to-date return to -8.33 per cent.

Investors lost N91 billion yesterday, bringing the total loss in the last four trading session to N444 billion. The All Share Index (ASI), the main value index that tracks all equities on the NSE, slipped to a new level, crossing the 38,000 points to 37,000 points. It had dropped from 39,000 points by midweek to close last week on 38,000 points.

With 37 losers to seven gainers, the market outlook showed widespread depreciation with several stocks closing on the offer. While most market analysts said several equities had been undervalued by the downtrend, the pull

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

of activities showed that investors remained hedgy and hesitant.

The ASI closed yesterday at 37,888.47 points as against its opening index of 38,171.32 points. Aggregate market value of all quoted equities slumped to N12.170 trillion as against its opening value of N12.261 trillion.

All the sectoral indices at the NSE-including banking, insurance, oil and gas, consumer goods and industrial goods, also closed on the downside. The NSE Banking Index declined by 2.0 per cent. The NSE Insurance Index depreciated by 1.36 per cent. The NSE Oil and Gas Index dropped by 1.0 per cent while the NSE Industrial Goods Index depreciated by 0.67 per cent.

Market operators said corporate

earnings have failed to entice investors noting that several companies with existing dividend recommendations were also on offer.

Total Nigeria led the losers with a drop of N7.02 to close at N159.03 per share. Forte Oil trailed with a loss of N5.20 to close at N98.80. Unilever Nigeria lost N2.35 to close at N44.65.

Guaranty Trust Bank declined by N1.03 to close at N22.67. Dangote Cement lost N1.10 to close at N233.60. Ashaka Cement dwindled by 96 kobo to N15.20.

UACN Property Development Company dropped by 85 kobo to N19.25. Oando declined by 80 kobo to N15.35. UAC of Nigeria lost 50 kobo to N64.50 while Nigerian Breweries declined by 49 kobo to close at N145.01.

On the upside, Flour Mills of

Nigeria Plc led the gainers with N1.95 to close at N77.95 per share.

Stanbic IBTC Holdings followed with a gain of 85 kobo. Access Bank added 19 kobo to close at N7.70 per share while National Salt Company of Nigeria (Nascon) rose by 14 kobo to N12.49 per share.

Total turnover stood at 219.7 million shares valued at N2.41 billion in 4,097 deals. Financial services sector was the most active with 170.04 million shares valued at N1.54 billion in 2,393 deals. Diamond Bank was the most active stock with 35.54 million shares valued at N230.65 million in 120 deals.

FBN Holdings trailed with a turnover of 35.02 million shares worth N408.46 million in 569 deals.

Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp) placed third with 17.08 million shares valued at N66.04 million in 203 deals.

11-Day Pricing Trend at NSE (All Share Index)

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Sovereign bonds to raise $7.1tr in 2014

TANDARD & Poor’s Ratings Services has estimated that the 127 countries globally will borrow an equivalent of $7.1 trillion from long-term commercial sources in 2014.

This would be a 2.7 per cent increase in long-term commercial debt issuance compared with 2013. Approximately 61 per cent, or $4.4 trillion of the sovereigns’ gross borrowing will be to refinance maturing long-term debt, resulting in an estimated net borrowing requirement of $2.8 trillion.

Consequently, we project that commercial debt by rated sovereigns will reach an equivalent of $44.7 trillion by the end of 2014, and that the total commercial and official bilateral and multilateral debt stock will reach $46.0 trillion, a year-on-year increase of 6.1 per cent. We expect that outstanding shortterm commercial debt will end 2014 largely unchanged at $5.3 trillion.

According to S & P, during 2014, the share of commercial sovereign debt rated ‘AAA’ -foreign currency rating, will remain around 14 per cent of total commercial debt stock and 10 per cent of total long-term commercial borrowing. The lion’s share of commercial debt stock and borrowing will be concentrated in the ‘AA’ category with 64 per cent and 67 per cent, respectively, because the top two sovereign debtors US and Japan, fall into this group. At the same time, the share of debt and borrowing by sovereign issuers rated in the ‘BB’ category or below the socalled “noninvestment grade” accounts for less than 5.0 per cent of the global total.

According to our calculations, Japan will face by far the highest debt rollover ratio including short-term debt, reaching 65 per cent of GDP. Egypt and Jordan follow, with rollover ratios of 40 per cent and 33 per cent, respectively, owing to their depen-

dence on short-term funding in the domestic market.

“The debt-rollover ratios for infrequent issuers with small but lumpy debt obligations can be very low if little or no debt matures in a given year and if they do not have a significant amount of short-term debt. The rollover ratios of sovereigns with a higher proportion of official debt tend to be lower, because official debt typically has longer maturities than commercial debt,” S & P stated.

The US and Japan are by far the largest sovereign issuers, accounting for 31.6 per cent and 25.6 percent of global sovereign borrowing in 2014, followed by Italy in a distant third place, with 4.7 per cent. China and Brazil are the most prolific emerging market sovereign borrowers, with

just under 4.0 per cent each of the global total, according to the report.

The report noted that the G7 nations account for almost three-quarters of global borrowing and debt pointing out that although four eurozone sovereigns-Italy, France, Germany, and Spain are among the top 10 borrowers, eurozone member sovereigns together will issue only a little more than half of what the US is likely to issue.

In a breakdown by region, Asia-Pacific sovereigns are expected to borrow $2.5 trillion, 36 per cent of the total, driven by Japan and, to a lesser extent China, followed

by North America 33 per cent and Europe 24 per cent. In contrast, borrowing by sov-

ereigns in Africa and the Middle East is negligible by global comparison.

The report outlined that approximately 30 sovereigns engage in inflation-indexed forms of borrowing as these instruments enjoy a higher popularity among nations that have experienced bouts of high or hyper- inflation, especially Latin America, even if those episodes lie decades in the past.

The sovereign with the highest share of indexed bonds is Chile, 66 per cent, followed by Uruguay, 47 per cent, and Brazil, 35 per cent. Among advanced economies, the United Kingdom has the highest share of inflation-indexed bonds, partly satisfying a demand from its large pension sector attempting to hedge longterm liabilities.

Zenith Bank advises on financial literacy

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ENITH Bank Plc has emphasized the importance of savings culture and general financial literacy among secondary schools students in the country.

The bank organized a one day training programme for students of Girls’ Secondary School, Abayi, Aba, Abia State, where over 300 students of the school were groomed on the need to develop the healthy habit of managing money and using the banks for their daily financial dealings.

Delivering a lecture on financial literacy, general manager in charge of Owerri Zone, Austin Njoko who represented the group managing director of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, said that the

programme had become imperative judging from the fact that over 43.6 percent of adult Nigerians do not transact business in banks.

While acquainting the students with various products designed by the bank and targeted at young people, Njoko told the students that acquiring sound financial literacy skills was key to success in life as managing one’s resources prudently is one decision the individual has to make throughout his lifetime.

He said, whether one becomes rich or poor in life does not necessarily depend on how much money one makes

through life but how well he is able to manage it effectively and efficiently; adding that instances abound where people make good money but die wretched simply as a result of mismanaging his fortune.

He charged the students not to in future form the habit of carrying cash around because of the inherent danger which he said was the reason government through the CBN came up with the idea of a ‘cashless’ society and the introduction of internet banking.

He urged the students to always impress on their parents the need to open accounts in banks for them to take care of their daily needs including payment of their school fees.

• CEO, NSE, Oscar Onyema

Global stocks rise as tension eases

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ORLD stocks rose sharply on Monday as prices of the safe-haven yen and United States (US) Treasuries fell, a day after Crimea’s vote to join Russia passed without major violence, easing fears that had driven world stocks to a one-month on Friday.

Wall Street opened sharply higher on Monday, up more than 1.0 per cent, rebounding from last week’s steep decline.

The Dow Jones industrial average (DJI) rose 187.19 points, or 1.17 per cent, to 16,252.86. The S&P 500 .SPX gained 18.45 points, or 1.0 per cent, to 1,859.58, and the Nasdaq Composite (IXIC) added 45.208 points, or 1.06 per cent, to 4,290.605.

The geopolitical tension over Ukraine weighed on equities last week, with the S&P 500 suffering its biggest weekly loss in seven and the CBOE Volatility index (VIX) jumping to its highest level since early February on Friday.

The MSCI world equity index (MIWD00000PUS), which tracks shares in 45 countries, rose 0.7 per cent, after hitting a one-month low on Friday. The dollar rose 0.4 per cent against the yen, to 101.76 yen, after four days of losses.

The euro gained 0.6 per cent against the yen, to 141.83 yen. It also climbed against the dollar, to $1.3941, despite a dip in euro zone inflation, the latest indicator to argue for outright money-printing by the European Central Bank to support growth.

Europe’s common currency has traded within a cent of a 2-1/2-year high around $1.3967 since Thursday, when the ECB president, Mario Draghi, voiced concerns about the euro’s strength.

European stocks (FTEU3) rose 1.1 per cent, and the broader Euro STOXX 600 (STOXX) rose around 1.2 per cent. Emerging stocks (MSCIEF) added 0.6 per cent.

Shares from the mining and industrial sectors featured among the biggest gainers, with BHP Billiton up by 1.2 per cent and ArcelorMittal rising by 1.12 per cent Reuters reported that the yen fell broadly after the United States and the European Union imposed what investors perceived to be only modest economic sanctions on some officials of Russia and Ukraine following Crimea’s vote to join Moscow.

Although investors are not ruling out another flare-up in tensions between Russia and Ukraine, many do not expect contagion to major markets. The lack of military conflict between the two countries also appeased investors.

“The sanctions don’t sound particularly aggressive,” said Richard Franulovich, senior currency strategist at Westpac Securities in New York.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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NEWS 3,998 offenders convicted From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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MOBILE court established for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Zone RS5 Command, convicted 3,998 traffic offenders in Edo, Delta and Anambra states last year.

This conviction was from 4,263 traffic offenders prosecuted by the FRSC, in partnership with the judiciary.

A breakdown showed that 842 were convicted in Edo, 1,471 in Delta and 1,685 in Anambra.

Akpabio said the FRSC, working with the judiciary, prosecuted the offenders at mobile courts on strategic corridors in the zone.

The zonal commander listed the corridors where the mobile courts are located as Benin – Ore , Benin – Asaba, Benin –Warri, Asaba- Onitsha, OnitshaOwerri,Awka- Enugu and Asaba–Benin highways.

He said the mobile court was established to reduce accidents on the highways and punish traffic violators.

15 pupils, four teachers die in Yobe accident

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T was a scene of blood and tears yesterday in Damaturu, Yobe State.

This time, it was not a Boko Haram attack. Fifteen pupils and four teachers of a primary school were killed in an accident.

The school, Shalom Nursery and Primary School, belonged to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

Fifty-five persons also died in separate accidents.

The head of the school, a pastor, was said to have died with the pupils.

A woman teacher reportedly died with her only son.

•Two survive as 55 killed in separate incidents From Duku Joel, Damaturu A source told our correspondent the pupils were coming back to Damaturu from the Redemption Camp in Abuja, after a National Annual Competition.

Two surviving pupils are said to be receiving treatment at the Potiskum General Hospital.

A mass burial was organised for the children at the accident site, as many were burnt beyond recognition.

Sympathisers trooped to the victims’ homes to commiserate with their parents.

Members of the church were milling around the premises waiting for the provincial pastor and parents of the victims, who went for the funeral.

“This is the first time that our children from Yobe State are participating in this competition and imagine this tragedy that has befallen us,” one of the pastors said.

The provincial pastor

could not be reached for comments.

Fifty five people died yesterday in two accidents, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed.

FRSC spokesman Yusuf Sani told reporters in Damaturu one of the accidents occurred on GashuaGarin Alkali road and 20 people (16 women and four men) died.

The other one, involving three cars, occurred on the Damaturu-Potiskum Road.

Thirty-five people died.

‘Celebrate Ubeku, Uwechue’

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Esin endorsed for governor

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LDERS from 12 local government areas in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District have hailed the decision of Governor Godswill Akpabio to zone the governorship to the district.

The elders, led by Nduese Essien, Etim Uye and Obong Amatte Ntuk, said the move would bring justice and peace to the state.

They resolved to endorse Larry Esin as the district’s governorship candidate.

Last December, Esin was nominated as the consensus candidate of the Oro Union.

The elders are canvassing support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s second term ambition.

‘We’ve assigned roles to women’ From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has said women now have more roles in his administration.

The governor spoke at an event to mark the International Women’s Day yesterday in Benin City.

He urged women to liberate themselves from “mental slavery.’’

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, the governor called on the women to get quality education to attain their rightful place in the society.

Oshiomhole urged women to stop playing second fiddle and adapt to modern trends.

State Chairperson of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NAWOJ) Mrs. Amina Eboh decried the upsurge of sexual abuse of children and rape cases and called for relevant laws to be reviewed to discourage offenders.

She said women should begin to conceptualise ideas to help to achieve 35 per cent gender affirmation.

An eyewitness in Gashua said some villagers were returning from the Sunday Market.

The FRSC spokesman said there were seven survivors.

Yusuf said the accident was caused by “over speeding and dangerous overtaking.”

He said: “Twenty people died at Gashua. They were returning from a Sunday market at Garin Alkali. In Damaturu/Potiskum Road, 35 people died, seven survived.

“The accident was caused by over speeding and overtaking.”

• Uduaghan (second left) discussing with Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Charles Ajuyah, Speaker of the House of Assembly Victor Ochei and the Assembly’s Clerk Lyna Ochulor at the signing ...yesterday.

Uduaghan signs N451b Appropriation Bill

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ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday signed the N451 billion Appropriation Bill into law.

Uduaghan said N161.74 billion or 36 per cent was for recurrent expenditure and N289.2 billion or 64 per cent for capital expenditure.

The governor also signed the Local Government Bill, 2013; State Security Fund Bill, 2013 and Renumeration, Salaries, Gratuities and Al-

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lowances of other Public Officers Bill, 2013.

The governor said the bills would assist the government in ensuring sound financial management, good governance and increased infrastructural development.

“Capital expenditure was higher than recurrent in this year’s budget as the government tried to con-

trol recurrent expenditure to have more funds for capital projects.

On the Security Trust Fund Bill, Uduaghan said: “The bill will enable government synergise with the private sector and corporate individuals on logistics to meet security challenges in the state.”

He said the two other bills would reduce the confusion associated with previous amendments and consolidate amendments into one single

law.

The governor said local government administration was important in the development of the state, stressing that a strong local government structure would help reduce the burden on the state and Federal Government in the provision of infrastructure and services.

He praised the House of Assembly for the passage of the bills and promised to partner them for the development of the state.

Rivers lawmakers approve N4b agric loan

IVERS State House of Assembly (RSHA) yesterday approved G o ver n o r Rotimi Amaechi’s request for a N4 billion loan from Zenith Bank Plc. The loan is under the Federal Government/Central Bank (FGN/CBN) commercial agricultural credit scheme available to states.

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From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

Before giving the approval, the Speaker, Otelemaba Dan-Amachree read a letter from Amaechi requesting the lawmakers to give him approval to access the loan.

In the March 5 letter, the governor said a similar loan, which the govern-

ment obtained in 2012 from Zenith Bank under the same scheme, “was utilised for the establishment of fish farms at Buguma, Ubima, Opobo and Andoni.”

Amaechi said the government had been diligent in repaying, adding that the last instalment would be repaid this month.

He noted that the state had identified the need to invest and develop the agriculture sector for food security and employment.

The governor added that this loan, to be “used for farm implements, input a nd t ool s f or f a r m er s” , would attract an interest rate of six percent per annum.

Court awards N4m damages against landlord

USTICE Patricia Mamoud of a Kano State High Court yesterday awarded N4 million to a tenant, Armstrong M. Bello in a suit he filed against Damian Okoro and James Onyeweke.

The plaintiff claimed that the two defendants allegedly evicted, stressed, dehumanised and shamed him.

In the suit filed by his coun-

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

sel, Bello sought N15 million as general damages from both defendants.

Delivering her judgment, Justice Mamoud explained that after going through the submissions of both counsel, she was convinced that the plaintiff’s counsel has proved his case beyond all reasonable doubts.

‘I thank God for this judgment, at last I have been vindicated.’

She then pronounced that the two defendants pay N4 million to Bello.

Shortly after the judgment, the plaintiff said it was a good judgment, which has demonstrated that both landlord and the tenant are not above the law.

According to him, the judgment would enable other tenants, who were being cheated to seek redress in court. ‘’I thank God for this judgment, at last I have been vindicated.’’

ELTA State government yesterday lamented the passing on of Chief Abel Ubeku and Ralph Uwechue.

Commissioner for Information Chike Ogeah, in a statement in Asaba, said the duo deserved to be celebrated because they lived exemplary lives.

Ubeku was an accomplished industrialist and politician; Uwechue was Nigeria’s ambassador to France and former president general, Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Ogeah said: “They epitomised honour, candour, excellence, patriotism and love.

“As a journalist, publisher and author, Uwechue blazed the trail in portraying Africa to the world as a continent with potential and opportunities. Through his African magazine, he let the world realise African countries should be seen as partners in development.

“For Chief Ubeku, the fact he became the first indigenous managing director of Guinness Nigeria says a lot about his intellect, managerial ability and high competitiveness. His time at Guinness was eventful and confirmed his status as a managerial guru of global repute.”

Two killed in Auchi cult attack From Osagie Otabor,

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Benin

WO persons were reportedly killed in Auchi, Estako West Local Government Area of Edo State, on Sunday.

They were shot in suspected cult-related attacks.

It is not known if the victims were students of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi.

Sources said the victims were killed at Iyekhei quarters. One of the victims, who was identified as Shaka Yesufu, was killed at a bar.

It was gathered he was shot while trying to rescue the hotel manager, who was shot in the hand after the attackers demanded to see the hotel director.

The other victim was shot dead at Alasa Street; others escaped with sinjuries.

Police spokesman Moses Eguavoen said he was yet to be briefed on the matter.

57

THE NATION TUESDAY MARCH 18, 2014

NEWS

Fulani herdsmen suspend peace talks with Berom

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HE hope of reconciliation between Fulani herdsmen and the Berom in Plateau State has crashed, following the Fulani’s decision to pull out of the peace process.

An international Non Governmental Organisation, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), has been coordinating a peace dialogue between the warring factions.

The NGO has coordinated peace meetings between the parties and selected ethnic groups.

But the Fulani community of Barkin Ladi, which was expected at the dialogue session of yesterday, never appeared at the meeting.

It sent a memo to the Senior Consultant, HD centre, Phillips Ostien, stating its decision to suspend the dialogue.

The Fulani said their decision followed attacks on their members in the course of the reconciliation.

The memo reads: “We have withdrawn from the dialogue and this is sequel to the killing of two young herdsmen and shooting of

ACF seeks probe of Fulani herdsmen’s arms

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HE Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged the Federal Government to probe the possibility of some external influence in the activities of gunmen in some parts of the North in the last few weeks.

Its National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, said in a statement that the increasing attacks by gunmen on northern Nigeria had assumed a dangerous dimension and instilled fear and uncertainty in the minds of the people.

The ACF said: “The Federal Government should investigate the possibility of alleged external influence considering the sophistication of arms being used by the gunmen and insurgents.

“The frequency of such attacks by gunmen has placed the region under siege. The disturbing reality is that there is no sign of this intractable war coming to an end.”

ACF noted that the wisdom of associating such attacks with religion or ethnicity should be discouraged, as the warring parties in communities where these killings took place had lived together peacefully over the years.

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

40 cattle on March 7. Similarly, 566 cows were rustled into Vwang village in Jos South Local Government

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

“ACF calls on the northern states to pool their resources together and fund the security apparatus in their states for effect, similar to the security Joint Task Force operating in Lagos and Kano states.

“The intelligence community and governments should do more to unravel the cause, motives and sources of arms, and funding of these terrorists and the ACF extends its sympathy and condolences to the affected persons, especially the bereaved families, the government and people of Kaduna State over this unfortunate incident.

The Methodist Archbishop of Kaduna, Rev Sunday Ogo Idoko, has appealed to the sponsors and the executors of terrorist activities to have a change of mind and stop destroying human life and property.

Speaking at the 51st Annual Synod, titled: “Let My People Move Forward” at Freeman Methodist Church, Zaria Circuit, Idoko said terrorism do not benefit anyone, not even the perpetrators.

He condemned the barbaric and inhuman killing of pupils in Yobe State.

on the same date. Only 65 cows were recovered till date.”

The letter, which was signed by the Chairman of the Fulani com-

munity, Shehu Buba Umar, said: “All appeals to monarchs, local and state governments and security agencies yielded minimal result in

getting the rustled cattle back to their owners.

“We are under pressure from our community and since we are representing them, we have no option than to oblige their request to withdraw.

“We have resolved not to continue the dialogue, until our lost cattle are found and if the security agencies refuse to help us recover our cows, we shall do that ourselves. The peace meeting can wait, we are going in search of our cattle.”

The memo caused tension in Berom and the fear of the unknown has spread across the locality, particularly Barkin Ladi and Riyom axis.

The local government Chairman, Emmanuel Loman, has called for calm, saying it was better to dialogue than to shed blood.

Loman said: “I am appealing to the Fulani to sheathe their swords, the security agencies will investigate any allegation of cow rustling in the locality and do justice to all.”

Loman urged the herdsmen to return to the dialogue process in the interest of peace.

Gates Foundation partners Borno

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HE Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has granted an appeal by Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima to support the state and the Northeast in primary health care and agriculture.

Shettima and his Bauchi State counterpart, Isa Yuguda, were at the Foundation’s headquarters in Washington D.C, United States, for a meeting, which was chaired by the Foundation’s President on Global Development, Dr Chris Elias.

Shettima appealed for Borno’s inclusion in the foundation’s Nitrogen fixation project, which is aimed at supporting high yield in farming activities through a technology that improves soil fertility.

Elias promised that the foundation would support Borno State. Elias hailed Shettima’s leadership qualities, which resulted in the progresses recorded by his government on primary health care.

The Foundation last year selected Shettima as the most committed governor in the Northeast in the area of primary healthcare.

Borno State was also lauded by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for enhancing healthcare delivery.

Bauchi denies owing N6b pension

•Managing Director/CEO R.T Briscoe Nigeria Plc Seyi Onajide (right) receiving the trophy of the football tournament organised

by Toyota Nigeria Limited from Team Captain Cyril Akinyeye at the corporate head office in Lagos. With them are Team PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAMS Manager Dewunmi Ige (left) and General Manager/Technical Adviser Segun Ogunsola.

Taraba acting governor sacks 24 special advisers

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ARABA State Acting Governor Garba Umar has sacked 24 special advisers and appointed 24 others.

This was contained in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Garvey Yawe.

The statement listed the new appointees as Abba

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Akawu (special adviser on Inter-Governmental Affairs); Oliver Suleiman (Labour Matters) and Barshir Marafa (Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs).

Others are Ibrahim Goje (Political Affairs); Yushau Ahmed (Border Community Development); Atem Ansho (Tourism); Adamu Danjuma (SEMA) and

David Irande (Primary Education).

The acting governor also appointed Hajiya Maryam Zubairu (Students and the Physically-challenged); Atiku Umar (Security) and Mrs. Ankye Abada (Women Affairs).

Also appointed are Emmanuel Nwunuke (Urban Infrastructure); Buba

Madugu (Commerce and Industries); Muntari Garba (Science, Technical and Higher Education) and Orbee Uchiv (Government and Project Monitoring), among others.

The statement directed the sacked advisers to hand over government property in their possession to appropriate government officials.

Why we made Jang NGF chairman, by Suswam

ENUE State Governor Gabriel Suswam has explained why Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang was made factional chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) He cited quality leadership, experience, wisdom and fear of God as qualities ‘’we saw in Jang.’’

Suswam spoke at the reception that climaxed the weeklong activities marking Jang’s 70th birthday at Du, Jos South Local Government Area.

The Benue State go vernor,

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

who chaired the reception, said “Jang possesses unequalled leadership quality and strong desires for socioeconomic development.

Jang has exhibited and proven these qualities.

“Most of the social infrastructure we enjoy today in Benue State are the handiwork of Jang when he served as military administrator.

“Jang has also proven these qualities in his home state where he is governor.

Massive road construction, agricultural revolution, youth empowerment, to mention a few.

“Plateau State has, indeed, been transformed under Jang despite the security challenges in the last seven years.

“These are some of the qualities we saw in him, that given the leadership problems confronting us at then, we said we need his kind of leadership to lift the forum.

“That was the simple reason we made him our chairman, and trust him he has

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AUCHI State government has denied owing pensioners arrears of N6 billion.

Chairman, State Local Governments Pension Board, Danladi Abubakar, spoke yesterday when the Chairman of State Pensioners Association Habu Ga and Chairman Bauchi Local Government Pension Association Yahaya Umar visited him in Bauchi.

Abubakar said: “The backlog of pension is not up to N6 billion. We have challenges of paying pensioners due to dwindling resources, and because pensions and gratuities increase every month, we have to compile

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

the figures and the actual amount before we pay.

“Pensioners ought to appreciate what the Isa Yuguda-led administration has done for them. The governor raised pension from N4,500 to N7,000 and when the Federal Government increased the minimum wage to N18,000, Yuguda also increased pension to N12,500.”

On why 2013 retirees have not been included on the list, Abubakar said: “We did not include them but we have documented them and we are waiting for approval, when we receive the money, we will pay them.’’

NSCDC arrests man in Jigawa

O •Suswam

not disappointed so far.”

Suswam called on residents to support the governor to complete projects before his tenure ends next year.

From Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse

FFICIALS of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Jigawa State have arrested Sule Dauda of Jigawa Tsada, Dutse Local Government Area for alleged sodomy.

A statement by the Commandant, Muhammed Gidado Fari, said the suspect was arrested after he allegedly sodomised an eight-year-old boy.

“The suspect committed the crime several times. He usually gives his victims N20.

“An interim medical report from Rashid Shekoni Specialist Hospital, Dutse, confirmed penetration of the little boy.”

Fari said the suspect confessed after a preliminary investigation.

“The accused claimed that he was introduced to the act by his colleagues, who used him and gave him N100.”

The commandant said the suspect would be charged to court after the investigation.

58

THE NATION TUESDAY MARCH 18, 2014

NEWS

Two die in Ebonyi accident

Senator seeks re-election THE senator representing Enugu East, Gilbert Nnaji, is seeking re-election.

The legislator, who chairs Committee on Communications, said: “Since the people I represent are satisfied with my performance and have been asking me to serve them again, I have accepted to offer myself for a mandate renewal. “Do not forget that the positions I have held were through elections, including the one I am occupying. So, in the same tradition, I have offered myself to the party and the people for a re-assessment of my stewardship, which by the grace of God and the sincere judgement of humanity, is impressive and enough to take me further. But for now, I am still exercising the mandate given me to the best of my ability and to the glory of God. “You know that governance and politics are different things that should not be combined if our democracy must grow. There is time for everything.”

Nnaji debunked the insinuation that there was an agreement that any elected senator from Enugu East shall go for a term.

He said: “It’s not true. No person can contemplate such a backward idea. What then is the essence of calling democracy a government of the people, by the people, if it is one person or a few individuals, who determine the fate of the people?

“I think it is the figment of the imagination of the people, who are afraid to face the court of public opinion and who have made up their minds to fail the people if given the opportunity to serve.

“For instance, if such an agreement exists, then once one is elected, one should not even bother to deliver since one must vacate office whether or not one performs. But because such is non-existent, I have deployed efforts to make sure that Enugu East is not left out in the dividends of democracy.”

LOSS OF DOCUMENT I, Mr. Ayyuba Shuaibu of House No. 36, 52 nd, 5 Avenue Festac Town, Lagos The Rightful owner of Receipt for C of O issued to me by (AGIS) FCDA Abuja which is file No. ED10028.

On the 20 th September, 2011, I was on transit from Gwagwalada to Area 1, Garki Abuja I discovered the loss of the said receipt.

Anybody who may see the receipt should please contact this phone numbers: 08033161420 or 07059581005

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WO persons have died in an accident involving a Ford transit bus and a Volkswagen Passat wagon on the AbakalikiEnugu Expressway. Many were injured.

A witness said the bus with registration: XX 225 ENU, was coming from Effium in Ohaukwu Local Government

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

Area of Ebonyi State. It was heading for Abakaliki when it collided with the wagon: AKL 520 KC. The bus, it was learnt, was carrying 23 passengers. The

wagon had three passengers The crash occurred near the permanent campus of the Ebonyi State University.

An official of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ebonyi State Command, who spoke to our reporter, said two passengers died on the spot.

He said the accident was

caused by reckless driving.

The source said the bodies were taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki mortuary.

Said he: “Twenty-five persons were injured; eight males, 10 females and seven children. The leg of one of the victims, a woman, was cut.”

•New Commissioner, Accident Investigation Bureau,(AIB), Felix A. Abali (left), receiving a handover note from his predecessor Capt.

Muhktar Usman at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos...at the weekend.

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE.

Police ordered to pay MASSOB N2m damages

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N Ebonyi State High Court sitting in Abakaliki yesterday ordered the police to pay the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), N2 million for illegally raiding its office.

A MASSOB member last year sued the commissioner of Police, DPO of the Central Police Station and the District Crime Officer (DCO) for raiding and taking away items at MASSOB’s regional office in

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This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has applied for registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission under part “C” of the companies and Allied Matters Act No. 1 of 1990.

GENERAL OVERSEER/CEO VICE/SECRETARY CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER PASTOR - IN- CHARGE DIRECTOR

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ 2. To build him a healthy Church 3. To teach and to evangelize the world 4. To do and to promote all that is good in accordance to the word of God 5. To win souls for the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, 42 Tigris Crescent, off Aguyi Ironsi Street, P. M. B 198 Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED BARR. AYUK EGAR (LEGAL ADVISER) 07034924662

Abakaliki.

The case was filed by its Ebonyi Central Regional Director, Mr. John Nwifuru, who accused the police of infringing on its right to a peaceful assembly and association.

Justice F.C. Inya-Agha held that threats of arrest, harassment and intimidation of MASSOB members and confiscation of its property were

unlawful and a violation of members’ rights as guaranteed by sections 34, 35 (1), 40 and 44 of the constitution.

The judge ordered the police to release the items taken away from MASSOB’s office on 9, Hatchery Road on October 25.

They include 2,700 identity cards worth N1,000 each, 10 plastic chairs, five mobile phones, a flagpole, a signboard, N170,000, five MASSOB uniforms, six pairs of

boots and belts.

He directed the DPO to publish an apology in two national newspapers.

The court also ordered the command to pay N2 million damages for the threats of arrest, harassment, intimidation and illegal seizure suffered by the applicant.

Counsel to MASSOB Jerry Ezenyi said justice had prevailed, praising the court for delivering judgment in favour of MASSOB.

meeting presided over by Governor Amosun.

He said the government has therefore, directed the top public officers to apply to the Ministry of Agriculture for farm lands and follow due process like any member of the public.

The commissioner added that government would monitor compliance as beneficiaries are expected to use the allocated land for only agricultural purpose.

“With this policy, other members of the public will take a cue from those in government by engaging in farming and one form of agricultural production or the other. Sen-

ior public officers are expected to show good examples that agriculture is the mainstay of our economy in Ogun State and that we as a government are determined to demonstrate that we have the arable land that can conveniently feed our people.

“The aim of this back to farm policy of the Amosun administration is to boost food and crop production in order to generate employment, attract large scale manufacturing and other industries to our dear state so as to feed our people in Ogun State as well as those in other states”, Olaniyonu added.

The commissioner recalled that Amosun, while presenting the five cardinal programme of his government, which includes Agricultural Production/Industrialisation, on May 29, 2011, said its wealth creation and employment generation strategy is hinged on improved agricultural production and industrialisation of the state.

“Government is indeed going back to the basics by adapting such lofty agricultural programme that will not only boost our revenue but also make all of us partners in our Mission to Rebuild our dear state”, Olaniyonu said.

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

Ogun to officials: go back to farming

O give fulfilment to its Agricultural Production/Industrialisation agenda, Ogun State government has directed all top public officers, including Governor Ibikunle Amosun, to engage in farming and other agricultural production activities.

Commissioner for information and Strategy Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, in a statement in Abeokuta yesterday said the decision was arrived at during the weekly Executive Council

PUBLIC NOTICE LIGHT ON THE HILL LIFE ACTS MINISTRY THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. DR. FRANCIS EKENE 2. MRS. CEBELIA EKENE 3. ELD. CALEB JAMES EFFIONG 4. PASTOR RICHARD EYO 5. EGNR. EFFIONG OTU UMOREN

•Many injured

Jonathan nominates Omirin for RMAFC job

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has asked the Senate to approve the nomination of Mr. Emmanuel Olusanya Omirin from Osun State as a member of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

Jonathan, in a letter to the Senate also named Alhaji Hassan Bashir and Lanre Fayemi from Bauchi and Ekiti states, to be confirmed as members of the National Population Commission (NPC).

•Hassan Bashir, Lanre Fayemi for NPC •Senate receives bill seeking to reduce powers of CBN Governor Mark is attending the InterFrom Sanni Onogu, Abuja

The President, in the letter said his action was in line with Section 154 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended).

The letters containing the nominations, are expected to be read on the floor of the Senate plenary today, by the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who would stand in for his principal, David Mark.

Parliamentary Union (IPU),in Geneva, Switzerland.

In a similar vein, the Senate is expected Lagos/Abuja to receive a Bill seeking to reduce the powers of the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) today.

The Bill entitled: “Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act Cap C4 LFN 2011 (Amendment) Bill 2014 is sponsored by Senator Ita Enang.

Monarchs: we didn’t endorse Obi for president From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

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HE Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers yesterday denied endorsing former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi for President next year.

Reacting to a story in one of the national newspapers, which said the Southeast monarchs endorsed Obi for President, the council, in a statement by its Chairman, Dr. Cletus Ilomuanya, described the news as false and misleading.

The statement reads: “The Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers finds the headline and some parts of the report embarrassing and unfortunate, as they did not reflect what happened at the conferment of a chieftaincy title on Obi by the Anambra rulers.

“No doubt, Chief Obi is an illustrious Igbo son, who to many Nigerians, performed well as Anambra governor.

We also share this belief.

However, what the chairman and the council are expressing dismay about is the purported issue of Southeast monarchs tipping Obi for the Presidency. It is more appalling when he has not told anybody that he is aspiring for the presidency.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Chairman of the Southeast monarchs, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya,wishes to advise Nigerians to disregard the aspect of the report suggesting that the Southeast monarchs endorsed Obi for the Presidency. It is baseless, lacks modicum of truth and imaginary.

No such issue has ever been discussed anywhere or at anytime between Chief Obi and the Southeast monarchs. The council is perplexed by such a misleading report.

“The chieftaincy title conferment and the choice of title for Obi were purely an Anambra State traditional rulers’ affair and not that of the Southeast monarchs, who only attended the ceremony as guests.

“These clarifications become imperative to avoid anybody hiding under the cloak of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council to pursue self-serving agenda and cause confusion. As a responsible body, the council appreciates the efforts of some Igbo illustrious sons, including Obi, to uplift the image, identity and dignity of Ndigbo through hard work and excellence in service.”

Foundation holds training

By Amadi Victor

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NON-governmental organisation, Rehoboth Women Foundation, has begun a twoweek free skills acquisition training to empower women and children.

The training will cover bead making, hair dressing, snacks/confectionary, soap / disinfectant, make up artistry and event decoration among others.

The programme which began yesterday will run till March 28. It would hold between 9 to 1pm on weekdays.

The venue is The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Chapel of Resurrection inside Kosofe Local Government office, Ogudu roundabout, Ogudu by Araromi Bus-stop.

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

59

NEWS

‘We can overcome all obastacles’ Text of President Goodluck Jonathan’s address at the inauguration of the National Conference in Abuja... yesterday.

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AM delighted to welcome you all to the inauguration of this historic National Conference which promises to be another significant landmark in our efforts to strengthen national unity and consolidate democratic governance in our beloved country.

I also believe that this National Conference is coming at a very appropriate time. Having just celebrated the first centenary of our country, the most compelling task before us, as we move ahead and contemplate what our nation will be at the end of its second century, is to lay a much stronger foundation for faster development.

This we can achieve by building a more inclusive national consensus on the structure and guiding principles of state that will guarantee our emergence as a more united, progressive and prosperous nation.

In our history as a political entity, we have experienced highs and lows but have always forged ahead.

To my mind, the fact that we have weathered all storms and continued with the mission of evolving a truly national identity signifies that we are going in the right direction.

The strongest nations in the world today also went through their own formative stages; some for decades and others for centuries. We must learn from them that nationhood will not happen overnight, especially given the circumstances of our birth as a nation.

History also teaches that nationbuilding is a journey of dedication, commitment, diligence, perseverance and patriotic vision. To be successful, nation-builders must continually strive to evolve better and more inclusive societies in which every citizen is a proud and committed stakeholder.

It was with this objective in mind that we set up the Presidential Advisory Committee (PAC) on the National Conference in October, last year, and charged its members with the responsibility of designing the framework and modalities for a productive National Conference.

The Committee which submitted its report in December, 2013, was able to reach out to all Nigerians and various interest groups, socio-political groupings, regional and religious elements, professionals, civil society, the organised private sector, labour, youth, women and others to ascertain their views on the initiative.

The Presidential Advisory Committee established that there was, indeed, a national consensus for this conference to be convened immediately, to meet the yearnings and aspirations of our people.

The National Conference is, therefore, being convened to engage in intense introspection about the political and socio-economic challenges confronting our nation and to chart the best and most acceptable way for the resolution of such challenges in the collective interest of all the constituent parts of our fatherland.

This coming together under one roof to confer and build a fresh national consensus for the amicable resolution of issues that still cause friction amongst our people must be seen as an essential part of the process of building a more united, stronger and progressive nation.

We cannot continue to fold our arms and assume that things will straighten themselves out in due course instead of taking practical

steps to overcome impediments on our path to true nationhood, rapid development and national prosperity.

For many years, we have discussed and argued over various issues concerning our national existence and well-being. Much of this national discourse has been conducted through the mass media, both print and electronic. More recently, the advent of the age of ICT and social media has greatly enlarged the space for the discussion of our country’s future.

Many more young and articulate Nigerians who previously had little access to the traditional mass media have now joined the conversation, motivated by patriotic concern for good governance, peace, stability, justice, equity, fairness and the harmonious co-existence of the diverse groups that make up our great nation.

Dear compatriots, my administration is convening this National Conference today because we believe that we must assume responsibility for ensuring that the long-running national debate on the best way forward for our country is not in vain.

It is our expectation that participants in this conference will patriotically articulate and synthesise our peoples’ thoughts, views and recommendations for a stronger, more united, peaceful and politically stable Nigeria, forge the broadest possible national consensus in support of those recommendations and strive to ensure that they are given the legal and constitutional backing to shape the present and the future of our beloved fatherland.

In inaugurating this national conference today, we are not unmindful of the argument of those who say that we do not need such a conference since we already have an elected parliament and an elected Government in place.

As cogent as that argument may sound, I have chosen to act on the sincere conviction that in the truly democratic nation we are striving to build, we must never ignore the loudly expressed views of the majority of ordinary Nigerians.

I have heard that majority say that we need to rebuild trust by involving them in the process of developing a guiding document of our national political relationships which is more acceptable to all sections of the country. I have heard our people say that we need to openly and frankly discuss our problems and seek acceptable solutions instead of allowing them to fester and remain sources of perennial conflict.

I have also heard them say that, as the elected representatives of our people, we must never arrogate to ourselves all knowledge and wisdom regarding the development of our country. nd I am in full agreement with our people. The power we hold is, without question, in trust for the people. Sovereignty belongs to the people. Their voices must be heard and factored into every decision we take on their behalf.

This National Conference is a very important avenue for the voices of our people to be heard. Our people have yearnings and desires that need to be discussed. Their representatives at this conference are neither usurping the role of the National Assembly nor the Executive. They are complementing us in our march towards a greater and stronger union.

Over the years, well-meaning Nigerians have drawn attention to inadequacies in our current constitution. Some have described it as a military-inspired document which does not take into full consideration

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•Dr Jonathan

‘The power we hold is, without question, in trust for the people.

Sovereignty belongs to the people. Their voices must be heard and factored into every decision we take on their behalf’ the genuine desires and wishes of the people.

The phrase in the preamble that says “we, the people,” has been variously criticised as being misleading because, according to the critics, the constitution was not written by the people. There are also those who believe that the constitution is not our problem but the political will to faithfully implement it for the peace and progress of Nigeria.

While opinions on the matter can be as diverse as rain showers, I believe that irrespective of our personal views on the issue, no one can deny the fact that every constitution is a living document that needs to be revised and improved upon from time to time. The United States, which is the model democracy in the eyes of many, has amended its constitution 27 times since it was first adopted in 1787.

Some of our compatriots also believe that because we have held several conferences in the past, we do not need to hold another one. I do not share that view at all.

A deeper look will reveal that the challenges we faced before each of the preceding national conferences were different. The challenges of 1956 are certainly not the challenges of 2014, and definitely not the challenges that the nation will face in years to come. It makes sense, therefore, that as the challenges before us evolve, we must be constant and proactive in our search for fresh solutions. We cannot continue to proffer yesterday’s solutions for today’s problems. his conference is open for us to table our thoughts and posi tions on issues and make recommendations that will advance our

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togetherness. The issues range from form of government, structures of government, devolution of powers, revenue sharing, resource control, state and local government creation, boundary adjustment, state police and fiscal federalism, to local government elections, indigeneship, gender equality and children’s rights, amongst others.

We must not approach these issues with suspicion and antagonism.

Rather, we should be open-minded and work to achieve what is best for Nigeria. Even though you come to the Conference as nominees and representatives of different interest groups, I urge you all to make a more united, stronger, indivisible and prosperous Nigeria your preoccupation and reference point at this national gathering. Whatever the pressures on you may be, I call upon you to put the best interest of Nigeria before all other sectional or group interests.

Indeed, I am quite worried when I hear people say that some participants in this National Conversation are coming here to defend and promote ethnic or clannish agenda. It is very regrettable that there are persons who believe that we cannot undertake any collective task in our country without the hindrance of ethnic rivalry even after 100 years of nationhood.

This conference gives us an opportunity to prove such persons wrong and I believe it will. As we start a new century of nationhood, we have an obligation to reshape and redirect our country for the benefit of our children. There should be no room for divisive cleavages and ethnic jingoism. There should be no room for selfish considerations that defeat the purpose of national progress. There should be room only for the national interest.

In the 60s, our country was ranked along with some developing countries, including India, Malaysia and South Korea. Today, those countries have moved far ahead of us in several areas. My expectation is that the outcome of this conference will be a positive turning point for our country’s development. We must seize this opportunity to cement the cleavages and fault lines that tend to separate us. We must re-launch our country.

I know the task before you is onerous; but there must be only one winner, and there can only be one winner if we do everything right, and that winner must be Nigeria. I urge you, therefore, to focus strictly on the Nigerian Agenda.

I expect that, as persons of integrity and honour, you will do nothing in this conference that will undermine our efforts and desire to build a truly great nation. I also expect that your discussions will be informed only by the noblest of instincts and persuasions.

Our sole motivation for convening this conference is the patriotic desire for a better and greater nation.

We are determined that things must be done in a way and manner that will positively advance that objective.

While we recognise that groups and communities are the building blocks of our nation, we must also emphasise that we need one another to build the solid and prosperous country of our dreams.

We cannot join hands together to build with a collective vision if we continue to harbour negative biases and prejudices against ourselves.

Yesterday’s prejudices should die with yesterday. Today is a new day.

This is the dawn of a new era. This is an opportunity to think anew. We must jettison the poisonous mindsets of the past, which were built on unhealthy competition among our diverse groups and peoples.

We need a new mind and a new spirit of oneness and national unity.

The time has come to stop seeing Nigeria as a country of many groups and regions. We have been divinely brought together under one roof. We must begin to see ourselves as one

community. We are joined together by similar hopes and dreams as well as similar problems and challenges.

What affects one part of the community affects the other.

An average Nigerian sees every part of the country as home. Let us seize the opportunity of this conference to do more to further turn our diversity and plurality into unique national resources for strength and greatness.

I have always affirmed that our ability to stay together despite our acknowledged differences, when other countries are finding it difficult to meet that challenge, is a powerful statement by Nigeria to the world on the virtues of tolerance and unity.

It is a strong and compelling statement in a world much afflicted by strife and violence. We must sustain it. We must not allow the antagonists of unity and togetherness to prevail.

We must work ceaselessly to remain one nation bound in freedom, peace and unity, as our National Anthem says.

Honourable Chairman and distinguished delegates, I urge you not to be under any illusions as you begin your assignment. The task that lies ahead of you is formidable. Over the coming weeks, you will be confronted with complex and emotive issues; strong views will be expressed by opposing sides and some disagreements will, in all likelihood, be intense.

I sincerely believe, however, that we can overcome all obstacles to true national unity if we dig deep into the recesses of our national character and look up to God Almighty for wisdom, guidance and the generosity of spirit we need to ensure the success of this conference.

Once again, I wish to express my appreciation to the Nigerian people who have, without hesitation, accepted dialogue as a means of resolving all differences and tensions that may exist in the country, and therefore, given their unequivocal support for this National Conference.

Let me at this point thank the National Assembly for introducing the provision for a referendum in the proposed amendment of the constitution. This should be relevant for this conference if at the end of the deliberations, the need for a referendum arises. I therefore urge the National Assembly and the state houses of assembly to speed up the constitutional amendment process, especially with regard to the subject of referendum. thank the Chairman, Senator Femi Okurounmu, and members of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the arduous work they undertook to prepare for the conference. I also thank the Chairman of this National Conference, Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi, the principal officers and all the distinguished patriots and representatives of our people who have taken time off their busy personal schedules to serve the cause of national unity and progress at this conference.

I am confident that we are embarking on a landmark journey that will make us stronger as a nation if we undertake it with all sense of purpose and sincerity. Let us do that which is selfless, purposeful and patriotic so that history will remember us for having served our nation well.

In conclusion, I urge all officials and participants in the national conference to work extra hard to ensure that their deliberations are completed on schedule, well ahead of the schedule of events for the next general elections already announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Let me again repeat what I have been saying that Goodluck Jonathan has no personal agenda in convening this national conference.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I now have the honour and privilege of declaring the National Conference open, for the good of our nation and to the glory of God Almighty who has brought us together.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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FOREIGN NEWS

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EU, US impose sanctions over Crimea

HE EU and US have announced travel bans and asset freezes against a number of officials from Russia and Ukraine.

The moves follow Sunday's referendum in Crimea, in which officials say 97% of voters backed breaking away from Ukraine and joining Russia.

The individuals targeted by the sanctions are seen as having played a key role in the referendum, which Kiev, the US and EU deem illegal.

Pro-Russian forces have been in control of Crimea since late February.

Moscow says the troops are

pro-Russian self-defence forces and not under its direct control.

US President Barack Obama said in a press conference that Washington stood "ready to impose further sanctions" depending on whether Russia escalated or de-escalated the situation in Ukraine.

If Moscow continued to intervene in Ukraine, he warned, it would "achieve nothing except to further isolate Russia and diminish its place in the world".

The EU published a list of sanctions against 21 Russian and Ukrainian officials after a meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels. The list includes the acting

prime minister of Crimea, the speaker of Crimea's parliament, three senior Russian commanders and several senior Russian parliamentary officials.

"We regret that Russia has so far not engaged in negotiations with Ukraine," EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said after the sanctions were announced.

UK Foreign Secretary William Hague told reporters the list was not "set in stone".

He said this depends on "how Russia reacts to the referendum in Crimea which has been a mockery of any real democracy, and how they are reacting to the

LENTEN MESSAGE Theme: Peace be still

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HE disciples of Jesus Christ were transiting from one side to the other side as they were instructed by Him. Along the way, a storm arose that produced fear of death and termination of their sojourn to the other side. The disciples of Jesus Christ became terrified and quickly beckoned on Him for help. Jesus rose up and rebuked them that they were of little faith as they were obviously ignorant of what they were capable of doing - the lack of knowledge of who they were in Christ necessitated their fear of perishing (Hosea 4:6, Isaiah 5:13). Having done that, He went on to rebuke the raging storm with “Peace be still” and the storm was silent.

What is a storm? A storm is a spirit that lifts its head to hinder people from getting to where God has purposed for them. It is a sudden distraction to sway peo-

NEWS

Text: “And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” Mark 4:39

By The Revd. Henry O. Adelegan

ple from God’s way to the way of regret, weeping, sorrow, loss or death. A storm can manifest in varying ways like sudden church problems, terrible official issues, unbelievable financial turbulence, evil conspiracies at work, unimaginable marital squabbles, unexplainable issues with children, sudden death of benefactor or spreading political unrests etc.

It can also come to bear in the life of a person when the devil knows that a promotion is at hand as it happened with Joseph when his brothers conspired

against him because of his dreams and coat of many colours.

It was same with Mordecai when Haman suddenly saw a competitor in him and Daniel too had that bitter experience when the other Presidents saw him as the King’s favourite and were envious of him.

It is equally scripturally axiomatic that there is a possibility of believers running into trouble without getting into sin or doing any wrong as it happened with Joseph, Daniel and the 3 Hebrews. Jesus Christ in His beatitudes gave a word of comfort however that, “Blessed are you when you suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake” ( Matt 5:10).

possibility of discussions and direct negotiations with Ukraine over the coming days".

The US said it had targeted seven top Russian government officials and lawmakers and four Crimea-based separatist leaders with financial sanctions for undermining "democratic processes and institutions in Ukraine".

The US list included Dmitry Rogozin, a Russian deputy prime minister, Valentina Matviyenko, head of the upper house of the Russian parliament and the ousted Ukrainian leader, Viktor Yanukovych.

"Today's actions send a strong message to the Russian govern-

Brethren, it will interest you to know that storms can be an ingress to a higher socio, economic, political or spiritual lever or a ladder to answered prayers because without a test, there is no testimony. Jesus Christ told us that in the world, there shall be tribulations but we should be of good cheer. (John 16:33).

When storms come therefore, please note that your big Bible, the lofty position you occupy in church, how earth-shaking you are with Speaking in Tongues among other outward show of spiritual status cannot help you.

What you need to do to overcome the storm of life is Faith. The book of Hebrews brings it closer home that it is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrew 11:6). As you have faith in Jesus Christ this season, please be assured that the raging storm will not have dominion over you and does not

Minister faces sack over 19 job seekers’ death Continued on page 2

company, Drexel Nig. limited, in the recruitment tragedy.

A top official of one of the security agencies said: “From our preliminary findings, over N7billion was collected from 734,000 candidates who applied for about 4,556 vacancies.

“We are investigating how the company was engaged, the terms and the service rendered to the NIS.” The peaceful protest at the Kaduna State command of the NIS was led by NLC Vice-President Isa Aremu. The protesters arrived at the NIS office early in the morning and blocked its entrance. They prevented the staff from entering their offices.

The union members carried placards that contained various inscriptions and a letter of protest which they wanted to deliver to the state controller.

However, the officers on duty barred the workers from the premises, telling them that the controller was not in the office.

Aremu demanded compensation for the families of the 19 victims.

He urged Jonathan to demonstrate that no life of an applicant would further be wasted at any

recruitment centre.

He said: “The President should take action so as to prevent shameless exhibition of incompetence and non-service delivery by some of his ministers.”

The Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER), led the Abuja protest.

The Executive Director of CASER, Mr Frank Tietie, led some members to the NHRC headquarters.

Tietie urged the authorities to probe the incident and bring those found wanting to book.

He said lack of crowd control measures and medical emergency personnel at the centres across the country was a violation of the applicants’ rights to life and dignity.

Tietie said preventable deaths, occasioned by negligence and inaction, were rife in the country.

He called for urgent action to prevent a recurrence.

The CASER executive director submitted a petition addressed to the UN Human Rights Commission to the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Prof. Ben Angwe, for onward transmission.

Angwe described the incident as “sad, not only to the commission but also the Federal Govern-

ment and country at large”.

The commission is investigating into incident.

Angwe expressed regret that the exercise, which was meant to provide jobs for Nigerians and reduce unemployment, resulted in avoidable deaths.

He said that the incident had kick-started a new beginning in the campaign for the protection of the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.

He assured the group of NHRC’s commitment to assisting in identifying the victims and ensuring they were compensated by the government.

The NHRC executive secretary praised CASER for its action, saying it indicated that groups were heeding the commission’s call for sensitisation of Nigerians to their human rights.

The NLC said the congress was saddened and shocked to learn of the avoidable deaths.

Said Omar: “It is grossly unfair for the Immigration Service to have invited thousands of our youths to physically present themselves to compete to fill a miserly 4000 vacancies.

“Nothing but crass opportunism can explain this heartless scam.

“A more rational and discerning recruitment process could easily have reduced the number by insisting on raising minimum standards.

“The explanation by the Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, that 520,000 applicants were invited for 4,556 spaces and that the applicants died in a stampede due to impatient and non-adherence to laid down orderly procedure, is rather weak and untenable.’’

Omar noted that to have invited so many applicants for such few spaces was unacceptable.

He called on the Federal Government to investigate the NIS, query the methods it adopted and the discretion it exercised in conducting the programme.

“It is also important to remind government of the danger that unemployment, particularly unemployment of qualified youths, represents.

“We, therefore, call on the government to tackle unemployment with increased commitment, and appropriately sanction those who have had a hand in causing these scandalous deaths.”

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) described the stampede as a national disaster. It called for an investigation.

Boko Haram: North’s governors meet U.S. officials in Washington Continued on page 2

drive to Garkida town in Adamawa State.

Witnesses said the gunmen who came to the village on Sunday night bore sophisticated weapons.

Mallam Musa Anjili Pela Birni said he narrowly escaped being killed by the attackers. The house in which he was sleeping was set ablaze.

“The gunmen invaded our village at about 10 pm on Sunday, They started shouting Allahu Akbar (God is great). They ordered residents of houses to vacate then before setting the

houses on fire.”

Another resident, who did not want his name in print, told our correspondent that most of the houses near the Church of Brethern were set ablaze. Two people died. Many others were injured.

The gunmen used AK47 rifles, petrol bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

Troops operating in the Northeast ambushed a group of terrorists on a mission to penetrate and attack Goniri Community in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe state.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Maj.-Gen Chris Olukolade, Director of Defence Information, said: “Troops are still in pursuit of the fleeing terrorist elements after the encounter which resulted in some casualties on both parties.

“Rockets and machine guns were freely used by the terrorists who eventually lost over eight of their fighters with several others wounded. “ Arms were also captured from the terrorists while others fled. “ The troops, however, lost

a soldier while an officer was seriously wounded in the encounter, ‘’ he said.

Goniri is not far from BuniYadi where the terrorists killed pupils.

He said troops, operating around Gamboru Ngala and Dikwa Local Government Area towards the borders of Chad and Cameroun, were busy throughout the weekend.

He said the weapons recovered in one of the locations include four antiaircraft guns, five machine guns and over 500 rounds of ammunitions.

ment that there are consequences for their actions that violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, including their actions supporting the illegal referendum for Crimean separation,'' the White House said in a statement.

The EU has also shown its support for Ukraine by announcing it will temporarily remove customs duties on Ukrainian exports to the EU. Ukraine's acting President Oleksander Turchinov said Kiev was ready for negotiations with Russia, but it would never accept the annexation of Crimea.

•Revd Adelegan

have capacity to hinder God’s promises for you. What you need to do is to have faith in His saving power, don’t give in to fear, take your stand against the storm in the place of prayers and the storm you are seeing today shall not last forever in Jesus’ name.

Prayers: Father, give me grace to have faith and know that the storm of my life is a passing phase that will soon give room to testimonies in Jesus’ name.

Putin recognises Crimea

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USSIAN President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree recognising Crimea as a "sovereign and independent state", officials say.

Sources said the decree would come into force immediately.

The move follows Sunday's referendum in Crimea in which officials said 97% of voters backed breaking away from Ukraine and joining Russia.

The EU and US earlier imposed sanctions on a number of officials from Russia and Ukraine over the vote.

The Russian presidential decree was issued "considering the expression of the will of the people of Crimea at the general Crimean referendum, which was held on 16 March 2014," the text of the decree said.

Earlier, the Crimean parliament declared independence from Ukraine and applied to join Russia.

The referendum was called by the pro-Russian authorities in Crimea after the ousting of Ukraine's pro-Moscow President Viktor Yanukovych, who had sparked months of street protests by rejecting a planned EU trade deal in favour of closer ties with Moscow.

Pro-Russian forces have been in control of Crimea since late February. Moscow says the troops are self-defence forces and not under its direct control.

The EU, US and authorities in Kiev have rejected the referendum as illegal.

The EU and US earlier published separate lists of sanctions against both Russian and Ukrainian government officials and MPs.

Anambra agog as Obiano takes the rein Continued on page 2

state sine its creation.

He said when he took over he drove and left the arena in his own vehicle adding that he had provided a brand new bullet proof vehicle for Obiano.

“I have finished my work, the job is done; today you can look around and say that we have a state and Anambra is the most financially stable in Nigeria today and that is why we are the Light of the Nation” Obiano said his administration would launch Anambra into a new economic place through “the four pillars of development.”

He said: “We shall engage in a serious production of cassava, maize and rice where we have the comparative advantage. ”In addition, we will re-train, re-equip and organise our farmers into cooperatives to enable them share resources and attract funding from donor agencies and financial institutions.

“These efforts will lead to massive increase in food pro-

duction in the medium to long term and the emergence of Agrobased industries in the area of storage, processing, manufacturing and packaging. That will create a lot of jobs for our people.”

“We will provide the enablement for Oil & Gas companies to prospect for natural resources in our state and set up a refinery within one year of my administration.”

“Commencement of a refinery will attract oil & gas ancillary companies to come to our state. This has a lot of job creation potentials for our people.

“We shall provide an enabling environment for our traders to switch from importation to manufacturing the goods they currently import to Anambra.

“This state hosts a large number of industrial clusters. My administration will strengthen this advantage with an appropriate policy framework that will boost our indigenous capacity in this sector.

“This will have a direct impact on wealth creation in the state and bring down unemployment” Obiano said.

Jonathan: no personal agenda Continued on page 2

endum arises.

He urged the National Assembly and the Houses of Assembly to speed up the constitutional amendment process especially with regard to referendum.

Jonathan is confident that “we are embarking on a landmark journey that will make us stronger as a nation, if we undertake it with all sense of purpose and sincerity”.

“Let us do that which is selfless, purposeful and patriotic so that history will remember us for having served our nation well,” he said.

Jonathan urged all officials and participants in the national conference to work extra hard to ensure that their deliberations

are completed on schedule, well ahead of the schedule of events for the next general elections already announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Chairman of the Conference, Justice Idris Kutigi, who spoke on behalf of delegates, described the inauguration of the National Conference as historic.

Kutigi who commended Jonathan for initiating the conference noted that the talk shop is part of the country’s strive for equitable nation.

He said that the caliber of delegates attests the importance of the conference.

He said, “Today is an important day in the history of Nigeria. This is part of our drive for equitable nation.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

THE NATION TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014

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NEWS

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President approves elevation of 25 judges to Court of Appeal

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has approved the elevation of 25 judges selected from High Courts across the country for appointment as justices of the Court of Appeal.

The new justices of the nation’s appellate court, whose elevation was announced about two weeks ago by the National Judicial Council (NJC), are to be sworn-in by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mukhtar on March 24, at 12 noon in the Supreme Court.

The President’s approval now brings the number of justices of the Court of Appeal to 90 from 70.

NJC’s Acting Director, Information, Soji Oye said,

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

in a statement yesterday, that the elevation of the judges followed NJC’s recommendation, which is in line with the new Court of Appeal (Amendment) Act, which increased the number of justices of the court from 70 to 90.

He said their elevation was also informed by the vacancies “occasioned by the demise, retirement and elevation of some justices of the Supreme Court.”

The affected judges include Justices Bolokuromo M. Ugo (Bayelsa State), Biobele A. Georgewill (Rivers State), Oludotun A. AdefopeOkojie (Ogun State), Misitura O. Bolaji-Yusuf (Oyo State), J.O.K.Oyewole

(Osun State) and O.E. Williams-Dawudu (Lagos State) Others are Justices Hamma Akawu Barka (Gombe), Joseph Jude Jella (Taraba), Bitrus G. Sanga (Bauchi), Muhammed Mustapha (Borno),Yargata Nimpar (Gombe), Sa’idu Tanko Hussein (Kogi), Mudashiru N. Oniyangi (Kwara) and Amina Audi Wambai (Niger).

Also affected are Justices

Ridwan Maiwada Abdullahi (Nasarawa), Tani Y. Hassan (Kano), Muhammed Lawal Shuaibu (Jigawa), Kadi Musa Hassan Alkali (Kaduna), Jamilu Y. Tukur (Katsina), Paul Obi Elechi (Ebonyi), Ugochukwu A. Ogakwu (Enugu), Nonyerem Okoronkwo (Imo), Joseph E. Ekanem (Akwa Ibom), F.E. Oho (Delta), Abimbola O.O. Adejumo (Edo)

Politicians get code of conduct

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OLITICAL officer holders will be presented with Code of Conduct at the Mushin Stakeholders Forum on March 19.

The event, organised by The Reformers, will take

place at Standard Super Hotel, Adebayo Street, Mushin, by 11 am, under the guest speaker, Chief Ayo Opadokun.

It would attract traditional rulers, politicians and members of the civil group.

Court of Appeal overrules N7b judgment against NIMASA

A

N Appeal Court in Lagos has upturned a N7 billion judgment delivered against Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) by Justice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court.

Justice Abang, in a suit filed against NIMASA by Henmor Nigeria Limited, ordered the agency to pay N7 billion to the plaintiff for arresting and detaining its cargo vessel, M.T. AGBOMIEN. Dissatisfied by the verdict of the lower court, NIMASA through its lawyers, Louis Mbanefo (SAN), Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) and Dr. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), appealed Justice Abang’s decision.

The respondent (Henmor Nigeria Limited) through its counsel, Kola Awodein (SAN) filed their brief urging the appellate court to dismiss NIMASA’s appeal.

But in a unanimous judgment delivered on Friday by Justice Chinwe Iyizoba, the appellate court ordered the return of

By Precious Igbonwelundu, Staff Correspondent

the judgment sum to NIMASA. The court held that there were no credible evidence upon which judgment was entered in favour of the respondent at the trial court. It aligned itself with the appellant’s arguments that the detained vessel was unseaworthy going by the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, therefore, was justifiably detained.

“On the claim of $7,000 per day as cost of hiring the vessel, the documents of the charter ought to have been pleaded and tendered to prove the item of loss, but this was not done.

“Also, as regards the $25 million claimed by the respondents as the estimated value of the vessel M.T. AGBOMIEN, the basis of arriving at that figure was not placed before the court to enable it determine if that was a fair and credible estimate before awarding same.

2015: Court strikes out case against Jonathan’s candidacy From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

•Dr. Jonathan

A

FEDERAL High Court sitting in Kaduna yesterday struck out a suit seeking to stop President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting next year’s election.

He is qualified if he wishes to run, the court ruled.

Delivering judgment in a suit brought before the court by two chieftains of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Richard Mneaga and Shuibu Lili, Justice Evelyn Anyadike also ruled that the plaintiffs lacked the locus standi to institute the case by virtue of Section 308 of the Constitution, which prohibited the president from sueing or being sued.

The plaintiffs, had among other things sought for an order of the court to disqualify President Jonathan from presenting himself as a candidate of the PDP in the 2015 election, and for the court to order the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restrain the PDP from accepting nomination of Jonathan as its candidate.

The Plaintiffs had insisted in the suit which was filed on October 7, last year that Jonathan would have completed eight years in office as President when calculated from May 29,

2007 and therefore urged the court to declare that President Jonathan is not entitled to a tenure of office as President exceeding eight years calculated from 2007, as last holder of the said office”.

Justice Anyadike affirmed that President Jonathan has the constitutional right to contest if he so desire, pointing out that the court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the matter since the plaintiffs did not follow the due process of filing their case, saying the petition was served out of jurisdiction.

She, however, dismissed the case for lack of merit.

Counsel to the plaintiffs, Mohammed Ibrahim dismissed the judgment, criticising the technicalities which the judge relied upon to dismiss the case rather than looking at the matter based on its merit.

Ibrahim however, said they will be heading to the Appeal Court for interpretation of the judgment by the lower court, adding that they will also be asking the upper court to determine whether President Jonathan has the constitutional right to seek another term in 2015.

But Counsel to President Jonathan, Nnamdi Ekwem and second defendants, (PDP), Victor Kwom, hailed the judgment, describing it as another landmark victory for democracy and rule of law.

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

RIPPLES NLCto govt: WE’ll RESIST FUEL PRICE HIKE

That’s what FELA would have called ‘SHAKARA OLOJE’

NO.2,791

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

“L

OOKING for work,” I wrote on this page more than five years ago, “has become one of the most dangerous occupations in Nigeria – a risky venture that is likely to cause harm or injury, even death.”

In that piece (August 19, 2008), I had employed term “occupation” not in a flippant or cynical sense, but to reflect what had become the painful reality for millions of our young men and women for whom looking for a job had become a full-time occupation in itself.

As they pounded the streets and scoured the corporate offices and factories and farms and construction sites in search of work, I remarked, they were more likely to be swindled, mugged, kidnapped, sexually assaulted or exploited and abused in every conceivable manner by persons masquerading as prospective employers or their agents.

I was reacting to reports in the July 14, 2008, editions of the national newspapers that dozens had died the preceding weekend at various centres across Nigeria in recruitment exercises conducted by the Immigration Service and the Prisons Department.

Desperate applicants in various conditions of unfitness, many of whom probably had not eaten that day, were required to complete a 2.5 km race in 18 minutes (men) and 20 minutes (women). The recruiters had given no thought to setting up the emergency medical services that are routinely provided even in situations involving those whose physical fitness can be taken for granted.

For 43 of the 195, 000 applicants jostling for 3,000 vacancies, the race proved a fatal regimen, a journey of no return. A good many of them were trampled underfoot in the frenzied rush to gain a vantage position at the start; others died from sheer exhaustion. Hundreds sought hospital treatment for the injuries they suffered during the race.

This grisly scenario, slightly modified, was re-enacted last week, again by the Immigration Service, at various locations across the country where it was scheduled to administer written tests to some 520, 000 applicants chasing 4, 556 openings..

The 2008 fitness test of a 2.5 km run was replaced with an obstacle requiring thousands of applicants who had converged on various locations several hours ahead of schedule to muscle, squeeze, elbow, and claw or otherwise find their way to the event through a single entrance.

They are still counting, but at least 19 persons, four of them pregnant women, were killed in the resulting stampedes. Hundreds suffered injuries. The luckier ones were horse-whipped (Calabar), tear-gassed (Port Harcourt), or sent into wild panic when Immigration officials and police shot into the air, they claimed, to control the

VOL.9

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘This is no time to point accusing fingers at anyone as all of us are guilty of not planning well or not being faithful to our plans. This is one of our national problems and the earlier we tackle it together with our other problems the better’ WAHEED ODUSILE

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net

Our much-abused job seekers, again

‘

•Moro

surging crowds (Asaba and Abeokuta).

In some of the centres where they managed to administer the written test, the whole thing was a sham. The main bowl of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, was reportedly crammed to the rafters, with hardly any elbow room; there were no desks, and many had to sit on the bare floor to take the test, though each candidate had paid a fee of N1, 000 for the privilege. So chaotic was the atmosphere that the outcome cannot pass for a true measure of any candidate’s ability.

One has got to be practically unconscious not to have anticipated the bedlam that would claim so many innocent lives, or supinely indifferent to the pain and distress of others not to have thought of devising appropriate measures to avert it.

I

S there a hellish decree that immigration gods, for which Interior Minister Abba Moro is chief priest, must periodically drink the blood of job-parched Nigerian youth? This question is crucial because, as this newspaper put in its flashback report yesterday (March 17), “As it was in 2008, so it is now.”

Between 14 July 2008 when The Nation reported the first Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) death-for-job bouquet for the Nigerian youth and 17 March 2014 when it reported the current NIS job stampede that has claimed no less than 19 lives (Abuja: eight, Port Harcourt: five, Minna: three, and Benin: three, among the victims three pregnant women), it has been five full years, going to six.

Yet, the Moro gods appear unfazed. Hear chief priest Moro himself thunder, perhaps in white rage: “The applicants lost their lives due to impatience. They did not follow the laid down procedure spelt out to them before the exercise. Many of them jumped through the fences of affected centres and did not conduct themselves in an orderly manner to make the exercise a smooth one. This caused the stampede and made the environment unsecured!”

In a sane society, the responsible political official would have handed in his resignation even if the fiasco had not been compounded by so wanton a grim harvest. Elementary decency demands nothing less. But ours is a society in which nothing succeeds like impunity, Abba Moro,...is an authentic product thereof

’

In a sane society, the responsible political official would have handed in his resignation even if the fiasco had not been compounded by so wanton a grim harvest. Elementary decency demands nothing less.

But ours is a society in which nothing succeeds like impunity, Abba Moro, the Minister of the Interior, who has the Immigration Service under his portfolio, is an authentic product thereof. So, instead of taking responsibility, or even showing empathy, he blamed the victims.

In one breath, he says this is not an occasion for apportioning blame. In the very next, he says the tragedy was all the fault of those who attempted to break into the stadium premises forcefully when they had not even applied for the advertised positions.

“Several unauthorised persons came in

HARDBALL

here, especially pregnant women,” he said.

Then, as if for emphasis, he added: “I am surprised that pregnant women would want to come and partake in this exercise that involves physical exercises.”

It is almost as if a licence to talk without thought comes with being a political official in Nigeria. Still, Abba Moro’s statement has got to rank among the most unfeeling and indecent ever uttered by such a figure, on a par with Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda’s remark that the murder of 20 Youth Corpers doing election duties in state in 2011 was in keeping with their destiny.

Compounding indecency with obtuseness, Moro presumes to set up a committee to investigate the tragedy and recommend to him measures that will help “ameliorate the situation.” It does not occur to him that he is not a fit and proper person to authorise that kind of investigation, and that he cannot even stay in his present office or any public office while an inquiry lasts.

President Goodluck Jonathan must seize this moment to break the cycle of impunity that has been the hallmark of a good many of his Administration’s officials by dismissing Abba Moro and the head of the Immigration Service forthwith.

Far too many Nigerians who have every right to the protection of the state have died needless deaths on account of the incompetence, negligence and fecklessness of officials who have learned no lessons because no lessons were taught.

It is also time for the Administration to move beyond empty slogans to address unemployment forthrightly. It is nothing if not scandalous that an Administration which has made job creation a top priority for the past few years has not even made a dent on employment. Government officials don’t even have the true measure of the problem. Their estimates range between 35 and 50 per cent of persons qualified, able and willing to work.

Every so often, a cabinet minister or state governor calls a news conference to announce that thousands of job openings had been filled in some unspecified establishment, or that a policy that had just been approved would create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the very near future, if not immediately.

Some officials who have spent all their adult lives in cushy government jobs think nothing of admonishing the teeming armies of the unemployed not to look to the government for work but to seek their fortunes in the private sector or self- employment.

Such stunts must stop, and so must the ritual sloganeering. It is a grand illusion to think that transformation of any kind can occur in a situation of mass unemployment.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Mass blood for immigration gods?

This is as bad an insensitive piece of crap as any. But may the Moro gods be praised, though their throats are crimson with innocent citizens’ blood.

Now, is this a government or a bloody joke — a bloody joke sworn to reliving the Thomas Malthus dire prophecy of 18th/19th century England, which could not even come to pass because of the Industrial Revolution?

Is the Malthusian prediction now coming to pass in our own 21st century Nigeria, because of a government’s empty economic policy, that ingrains de-industrialisation and structured mass joblessness?

Or how could one explain 520, 000 youths going after 4, 556 para-military jobs, with each paying N1, 000 for the application form, and the smart Alec organisers grossing a reported N6 billion in revenue?

Now what do you call that: Jonathanomics or Ngozimetrics, after the famed coordinating minister for the economy, who keeps on insisting, with her star-struck principal, that the “fundamentals” of the Nigerian economy is strong, even if its claimed rapid growth

refuses to deliver development?

Indeed, it is only Jonathanomics and Ngozimetrics that would subject desperate Nigerian job seekers to part with N1,000 each for an elusive job, only to get needless death in return.

Only such a quaint economy would even allow the NIS to vend white vests and shorts, reportedly for another N500 — another sweetheart deal! — but still have no money to pay owners of the facilities for the mass interview early enough, for them to throw open the gates.

That late payment explains the late opening of the gates, which itself led to the hideous stampede in which the victims were crushed to death. Yet, it is tribute to the Nigerian state’s uncaring attitude to its citizens’ plight that Minister Moro would attempt to spin the heartlessness of NIS under his ministry against the victims!

The latest job disaster is clear signal that mass unemployment has reached a catastrophic level. It’s a roaring disaster ahead.

Can we beat the rap? God save Nigeria.

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