The Nation - May 9, 2011

Nigeria’s truly national newspaper

Ibadan indigenes back Akala’s law

Nestoil seals deal on OML 42 with Shell BUSINESS – Page 2

NEWS – Page 10

•Firm moves into power generation

•Rotation of Obas’ council chair ‘okay’

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TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

VOL. 6, NO. 1754 MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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Suspected killers of NYSC members arrested, says governor

•From left: Katherine Tweedie, Director of Africa, World Economic Forum (WEF), Wale Tinubu, Group Chief Executive, Oando PLC/Co-Chair WEF on Africa and Mpho Makwana, Chairman, Eskom Holdings, South Africa, during the opening press conference of the 2011 World Economic Forum on Africa, concluded in Cape Town South Africa ... at the weekend.

– PAGE 4

•Founder and Executive Chairman of World Economic Forum, Prof. Klaus Schwab (left), with the President/CEO of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, after signing a five-year Fellowship Programme for African Young Global Leaders (YGLs), valued at US $2.3 million, endowed by Dangote Foundation, in Cape Town, South Africa.

Buhari: How INEC rigged for Jonathan in 20 states CPC urges tribunal to order fresh poll over Lagos, Kwara, 18 others

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HE Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) yesterday began its battle to upturn President Goodluck Jonathan’s victory at the April 16 presidential election.

Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s party filed a petition before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, sitting at the Court of Appeal in Abuja, just ahead of today’s deadline for submission of petitions.

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

The CPC is asking for the nullification of results in 20 states where it said the election was rigged.

The states where the CPC is alleging substantial noncompliance with the Electoral Act and other irregularities are: Lagos, Bayelsa, Kaduna, Sokoto, Nasarawa, Kwara, Adamawa, Abia, AkwaIbom, Enugu and Cross River.

Others are: Rivers, Ebonyi,

Bayelsa, Delta, Imo Anambra, Benue and Plateau states as well as the FCT. In the petition anchored on two grounds and filed by Mr. Ebun Shofunde (SAN), Abubakar Malami (SAN) and Alasa Ismail, the CPC is asking the tribunal to set aside the presidential election and organise a fresh election between the CPC and the PDP. The CPC also urges the tribunal to hold that Jonathan and his running mate, Namadi Sambo, were not

duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the election.

The CPC plans to prove that there was substantial variation in the voters’ register used by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the conduct of the presidential and governorship elections. To that extent, says the party, INEC and its chairman, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, unlawfully manipulated the register to the advantage of Jonathan

and Sambo.

It accused INEC of using different voters’ registers containing different number of voters for different elections.

The petitioner also alleged that ballot papers were used at polling stations other than the original places they were made for.

The CPC alleged also that there was under usage of ballot papers at some polling stations, adding that such papers were moved to various

polling units in facilitation of ballot stuffing in favour of the PDP. It said there was significant number of ballot papers missing in some polling units that were never accounted for. This, the CPC said, ultimately affected the result of the presidential poll.

The petitioner urged the tribunal to declare that Jonathan and Sambo were not duly elected.

Continued on page 2

CJN Katsina-Alu escapes death, loses wife

C •The late Mrs Katsina-Alu

HIEF Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Aloysius Katsina-Alu had a close shave with death at the weekend. His wife died.

For the country’s number one judicial officer and his wife, Victoria Mimi, savouring the cool evening breeze under a tree in their expansive country home in Alu village, Benue State, turned out a lethal experience. A tree fell on the duo, killing Mes Katsina-Alu. The CJ was injured.

Alu village in Ushongo Local

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

Government Area is about one and a half hours drive from Makurdi, the state capital.

Mrs Katsina-Alu, 53, was rushed to the hospital. But she did not survive.

A family member, Mr. Ajiryar Katsina-Alu, yesterday recounted how the incident happened on Saturday.

He said the Katsina-Alus sat outdoors after a late dinner. They were about to go indoors when a strong

wind started to blow.

“She stood up and told her husband that they should go indoors, but as they were about leaving, the wind uprooted one of the gmalina trees in the compound. It fell on her,” Mr Katsina-Alu said.

According to him, the tree also cut the branches of another tree which fell and upturned the chair on which the Chief Justice was seated, pushing him to the ground.

Justice Katsina-Alu had bruises, but his wife, who would have turned 54

next month was picked up unconscious and rushed to Myom Hospital in Gboko, the nearby major town, where she was confirmed dead, the family member said.

Her body was deposited at the Gboko General Hospital mortuary.

Mrs. Katsina-Alu had earlier in the day presided at the wedding of her niece, Erdoo Akaa, and her husband, Terseer Ado. The ceremony took place at Victory Saints Church in Alu village.

Continued on page 2

•POLITICS P12 •SPORTS P23 •CITYBEATS P37 •JOBS P43 •MOTORING P53

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THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

NEWS US seeks access to bin Laden’s widows

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•From left: Dr. Ernest Azudialu Managing Director, Nestoil Plc, Mr Charles Ngoka, Deputy Managing Director of Total Exploration & Petroleum Nigeria Ltd (TEPNG), Mr. Ciro Pagano, Managing Director, Nigeria Agip Oil Company and Sunmonu at the signing of Sale Purchase Agreement.

Nestoil seals deal on OML 42 with Shell

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ESTOIL Plc led consortium – NECONDE Energy Limited has signed a Sale Purchase Agreement on the Oil Mining Lease OML 42 with its original owners, Shell Petroleum Development Company, Total E&P Limited and Nigeria Agip Oil Company Limited.

The Nestoil consortium emerged winners of 45 per cent stake in the oil block sold by the oil majors after a keenly contested bid.

Five blocks, OML 26, 30, 34, 40 and 42 located in the western swamps of the Niger Delta, were hitherto operated by Shell, while French giants Total, Italy’s ENI and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) were partners.

While the Nestoil outfit now holds 45 per cent of OML 42, the outstanding 55 per cent of the block, believed to hold over a billion barrels of Crude Oil and over three trillion cubic feet of gas, is held by NNPC.

•Firm moves into power generation, distribution The block is located onshore in Shell’s western operations near its Forcados terminal in Delta State. Its biggest oil fields are Odidi and Jones Creek. Others are Batan and Egwa.

Nestoil and its partners will be expected to sink more oil wells to maximize output from the fields. Currently one of the fields produces about 26,000 barrels per day. Full production in the block will resume after repairs of vandalised facilities in Niger Delta have been affected.

Other members of the consortium along with Nestoil include Aries Exploration and Production Limited, VP Global Limited, a special purpose vehicle fully owned by the community where the block is situated and KI Nigeria BV/KOV Nigeria, a Polishbased international investment group.

At the signing of the Sales Purchase Agreement last week, Managing Director of Shell Mr Mutiu Sunmonu hailed

Nestoil for its tenacity, which has seen it through many challenges encountered during its rise to become the most preferred bidder in a very rigorous bidding process.

Managing Director of Nestoil Plc, Dr. Ernest Azudialu said having come this far, Nestoil would ensure that the venture is successful.

He said the company’s most significant project so far was the successful completion of the Package A section of the $1.1bn Nembe Creek/Cawthorne Channel Trunk-line for the joint venture of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited.

Nestoil is also involved in dredging activities via its sister company, B&Q Dredging Limited. During the execution of the SPDC Egbeleku Engineered Landfill Construction Contract in Delta State, it also engaged in significant dredging activities.

HE United States yesterday requested access to the three widows of Osama bin Laden who are in Pakistani custody.

National Security Adviser Tom Donilon said information from them could help answer questions about whether Pakistani authorities helped hide the al-Qaeda leader while he was on the run.

He spoke in an interview broadcast on NBC’s “Meet the Press” programme yesterday.

Bin Laden was shot dead in a large house in the town of Abbottabad close to a military academy after decadelong hunt.

Donilon said Washington has seen no evidence the Pakistani government or elements within it colluded to shield bin Laden, but Pakistani authorities “need to provide us with intelligence ... from the compound that they’ve gathered, including access to Osama bin Laden’s three wives.”

Pakistani authorities are still holding the three widows and eight of his children in custody, nearly a week after the U.S. raid that killed the Saudi terrorist leader, and no countries have asked for their return, the government said yesterday.

Pakistan gained custody of bin Laden’s family members after the covert U.S. operation on May 2 that killed the alQaeda chief and four others at his hide-out and further strained relations between the two nations.

Their questioning could provide more information on

Buhari: How INEC rigged for Jonathan in 20 states Continued from page 1

It also urged the tribunal to declare that Jonathan did not fulfil the requirement of Section 134 (2) of the 1999 Constitution.

That Jonathan did not score the highest votes cast, did not meet the one-quarter mandatory votes cast in addition to scoring two-thirds votes cast in all the states of the federation and the FCT. That it may be determined that the result declared by Jega on April 18, 2011 by which Jonathan was returned as elected president is wrongful, invalid and unlawful.

That the election held on April 16, 2011 did not produce a winner as contemplated by the provision of the 1999 Constitution.

The tribunal should therefore, direct Jega to arrange another election between the petitioner and the PDP in conformity with the provision of Section 134(4) of the 1999 Constitution, said the CPC. The party has lined up 151 witnesses to prosecute its case.

The PDP has also raised a legal team to challenge Buhari’s result in the North.

It has hired forensic express to analyse six million of Buhari’s 12 million votes and to prove under age voting in the North.

Buhari won 12,214,853 to Jonathan’s 22,495,187 votes.

It was Buhari’s third at-

tempt in a row at becoming Nigerian elected president.

He was the Military Head of State between January 1984 and August 26, 1985.

The CPC accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of frustrating its efforts to file the petition. It claimed that all entreaties to get sensitive materials to use in arguing its case proved abortive.

In an exparte application filed last Friday, the CPC asked the tribunal to compel INEC to release certain sensitive materials used during the polls to it.

CPC National Chairman Prince Tony Momoh said yesterday in a statement that the party decided to go to the tribunal to point out that lapses observed before and during the elections “were not adequately addressed, if at all”.

The statement reads: “Today, Sunday May 8, 2011, our great party, the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), puts its name in the history books of this great but highly stressed and manipulated country to draw attention to persisting injustices that a few have visited on the many.

The few are the ruling elite who have refused to access power through obedience to the laws of the land but rather in breach of them. When we intimated INEC of the abuses we noticed even before the elections were started in early April, we were assured in

writing that the lapses would be addressed.

“That we are in court today points to the fact that those lapses were not adequately addressed if at all. We said from the outset and still believe that elections in Nigeria can be free and fair only when people who are registered to vote are allowed to vote, that the votes are counted and that the votes count in the choice of those who seek their mandate.

“We say the results announced to the world were manipulated, where the elections took place, between the polling units and the collation centres.

“We have made certain demands on INEC to ensure that the materials listed for inspection for use in our petition against the election are available at INEC National Headquarters to be accessed.

We will not accept any diversion being introduced into this matter by INEC asking us to go to their state electoral offices in the country. We will insist on examination of the documents at INEC’s National Headquarters. For example, we are aware that the original of forms EC8D and EC8E are with INEC here in Abuja. Form EC8D is the summary of results of all local governments in each state, and form EC8E is a summary of results of all the states of the Federation and the FCT. “We are not just shouting

wolf by going to court. The PDP and all other stakeholders in the Nigerian Enterprise have asked us to go to court.

Our candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, says he is not going to court, and that between 2003 and 2007, he was in court for a total of 50 months.

“But we, the party that sponsored him and his running mate, Pastor Tunde Bakare, have decided to go to court to question the conduct of an election that has been trumpeted to the world as free, fair and credible.

“We are even encouraged by what the newspapers have published that the ruling party has packaged a legal team to question the scores credited to our candidate in his areas of strength. This is acceptance that the elections were flawed.

“The outcome of the case will no doubt enrich our electoral case law, especially in the area of forensic examination of fingerprints on the ballot papers.

“If we want to grow this country, we must clean up that area which has to do with the procedures for choosing our leaders. We want to contribute to the fulfillment of this dream.

In the ex-parte application filed last Friday, the party is praying for an order of the court directing the commission to seal all the Direct Data Capturing Machines (DDC

the U.S. military operation and help reveal how bin Laden was able to avoid capture nearly 10 years after the September 11, 2001, attacks that set off a massive manhunt for him. Pakistani authorities, who were deeply embarrassed by the raid, are not allowing the CIA access to them, the Foreign Ministry said.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani was to brief parliament on the raid, which was carried out by two dozen U.S. Navy SEALs who helicoptered across the border from Afghanistan undetected and rappelled into the alQaeda leader’s lair.

Pakistan’s army has said it had no idea bin Laden was hiding for up to six years in Abbottabad, an army town only two and a half hours’ drive from the capital, Islamabad. That claim has met with skepticism from U.S. officials, who have repeatedly criticised Pakistan for failing to crack down on Islamist militants.

Among bin Laden’s relatives taken into custody was his Yemeni-born wife Amal Ahmed Abdullfattah. She has told Pakistani investigators that she moved to the home in 2006 and never left the compound.

She is from the southern Yemeni province of Ibb, about 120 miles (193 kilometers) south of the capital, Sanaa. A family member there has sought a meeting with Pakistan’s ambassador to Yemen to ask about her fate and whether she is to return to Yemen. The relative, a cousin named Walid alSada, said the ambassador did not know and promised to get back to the family.

Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Tahmina Janjua said no countries have asked for the return of bin Laden’s relatives. Pakistani officials, who have not disclosed where the relatives are being held, have said that they will be returned to their countries of origin.

Bin Laden led a life on the run, yet he kept his family close.

•Buhari

Katsina-Alu’s wife is dead

machine), ballot papers and ballot boxes used in the election so as to preserve them for forensic test.

The defendants are the INEC, its National Chairman (Prof.

Attahiru Jega), Jonathan, Vice-President Namadi Sambo, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The ex-parte motion was brought pursuant to Sections 77(1) and 151 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended), Order 26 Rule 8 of the Federal High Court (civil procedure) Rules 2009.

The applicant also wants an order directing INEC and Jega to produce for inspection and permit it to take copies of the documents/materials/ ballot papers used in the election as shown out in the schedule to the motion.

She was said to be in high spirits during the ceremony, attend to guests, until late evening.

Sympathisers thronged the Katsina-Alu country home.

The early callers included Benue State Deputy Governor Steven Lawani, Senator George Akume, Mr. Justice Iorhemen Hwande, Chief Judge of Benue State Justice Margaret Igbetar, Attorney General and Justice Commissioner Mr Chive Keave, and Julius Shaukpar, Chairman, Ushongo Local Government.

Others are Sebastian Hon, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN); Thaddeus Asua Polycarp Kwahar, Mr. Shaapera Naako, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources and proprietor of Royal Choice Inn, Mr. Felix Akiga.

Continued from page 1

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THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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NEWS

General Overseer, The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye (left), his wife Pastor Foluke; wife of the President and founder Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), Pastor Faith Oyedepo, and her husband, Bishop David Oyedepo, during the 30th year Anniversary/Thanksgiving of the Living Faith Church at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, PHOTO: DAYO ADEWUNMI Ogun State...yesterday

Arik aircraft suffers Panel on CJN, Salami feud can’t bird strike succeed, says ex-ICPC boss N A •Akanbi recommends neutral members OTHING positive can come out of the four-man subcommittee raised by the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate the crisis rocking the leadership of the judiciary, pioneer Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Justice Mustapha Akanbi (rtd) has said.

The four-man committee, headed by the immediate past president of the Court of Appeal, Justice Umaru Abdullahi is to resolve the dispute between the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloysius Katisna-Alu and the President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Issa Ayo Salami.

Justice Akanbi said members of the committee might not be able to discharge their duties effectively because “they too are involved in the crisis.”

The former ICPC boss spoke at the weekend in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, during a Town Hall Meeting organised by the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), with the theme “The Nigerian Judiciary at the Crossroad”. Justice Akanbi was the chairman.

He recommended the appointment of some neutral persons as members of the panel.

Justice Akanbi lamented that the judiciary was in a difficult situation, as some of the judges no longer understand what it takes to be in such exalted position and have messed up themselves with politicians.

By Kelvin Osa- Okunbor

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

His words: “Some judges have not learnt the lesson of aloofness which must be part of the character of a judge. You don’t go about hobnobbing with politicians and military men because when you do, they will get into you, suck you dry and leave you.

“There was a petition over the Sokoto case and when the CJN got the letter, apparently he called Salami. I don’t want to go into details of their discussion but it appears to me the two could not agree on the modus operandi for dealing with the matter. Salami was queried by the CJN and asked to reply within 12 hours.

Those of us in the civil service know that you need more than 12 hours to reply a query. One thing led to the other.

“If somebody makes an allegation of corruption, of course nobody is too high to be investigated. When the CJN queried Salami, he (Salami) gave a very vitriolic reply. Seeing it was going to create problem, a committee was set up, not to investigate the matter, but to find a way of resolving the difference between the two officers and provide, in a way, a soft landing for them.

“We made remarks and the five of us (on that committee) were unanimous that there was no misconduct on the part of Salami and also that the CJN could not have stopped the case because he has no constitutional power to do that.

Nobody has said this openly, until now. We felt he too had no problem; let the sleeping dog lie.

But, unfortunately; this did not go down well with some people.

“Now at the end of the day they have set up a committee so they can settle the dispute. Some of us became worried and some elders tried to come in but instead of that now they decided that the NJC should appoint four Justices to look into the matter. I don’t think the committee itself can come out with anything positive because one, the chairman of that committee was the one who had the Sokoto case before him and did not think it fit to hear it, until Salami came as the PCA. “Also the CJN was asked to step down, which is unprecedented for the Number 2 to act in deciding who is guilty or not. The Number 2 (Justice Dahiru Musdapher) was the same person who was with the CJN when they called to ask Sala-

mi questions. He himself is already a witness in the case. He had known about the case before. Then you have Justice Yinka Ayoola, who was in the Committee of five when we took our decision. He had known about the matter before.

The other two remaining Justices were appointed to that body by the CJN. So you can see that the sky is clearly loaded against the PCA. “The crisis is already escalating.

I don’t know what will be the ultimate decision of the sub-committee of the NJC. A house divided against itself is bound to fall. If that house is divided in the way it is and we have this unprecedented idea of the CJN now going to bow before his Number 2, when he wants to give evidence, ha ha; the Ijebu man will say o boje, ‘it is really bad’.

“I would have thought that if wise counsel were to prevail, we still have people like Justice Kayode Eso (rtd), a man of courage and determination who can give leadership, people like Justice Muhammed Uwais and Justice Mahmoud Nasir. The three of them can help solve the problem because they have all gone through the crucible; they have no vested interest in what is happening.”

N Arik Air Boeing 737-700 New Generation (NG) aircraft operating flight W3 596 from Owerri, the Imo State capital, to Lagos yesterday suffered a bird strike on Engine 2 shortly after take-off from Sam Mbakwe Airport.

There were 69 passengers on board.

The strike forced the pilot to shut down the engine and resorted to emergency landing at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja. The aircraft landed safely The company’s Managing Director, Mr. Chris Ndulue, praised the operating crew for displaying a high sense of professionalism and called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to intensify the fight against the menace of bird strike at the airports.

He said: “Bird strike hampers the safety of passengers and aviation agencies should make concerted efforts to eradicate this menace.

“The cost implication of bird strike to airlines is enormous and operators need every possible assistance from airport authorities,” Ndulue said.

This is Arik Air’s fourth bird strike this year.

An aviation stakeholder, Group Captain John Obapkolor has called on FAAN, to take urgent steps to minimise the effects of bird strike to aircraft, saying domestic airlines are losing hundreds of millions regularly to the menace.

Zoning of positions ‘ll stay, says Benue Governor Suswam •’Northcentral won’t concede Senate President to Northeast’

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OVERNOR Gabriel Suswam of Benue State yesterday said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may not change the current power sharing formula.

Suswam, who spoke in Abuja , said Northcentral will not concede the Senate Presidency to the Northeast.

He said: “On whether I agree with the present status quo. Of course yes. As it stands now, Of course yes. Absolutely yes.

First, the President himself has no issues with that. If you look at the religious configuration of our country, we should expect that the Southwest as it were should also have a position. This issue will come.

“Also, the Southeast voted overwhelmingly than any geopolitical zone for the President. So, they deserve something. But we are talking about balancing now. If Nigerians say ‘let us give

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

the Southeast this position because they voted overwhelming for the President’, it is a strong reason. If they voted, they deserve something. I sympathise with that position as well.

“But people talking about balancing. At least we have five House of Reps members from the Southwest and if we are going to balance and if that is acceptable to Nigerians we go with it.

“When leaders of the party sit down, these issues will be canvassed and passionately discussed and a decision will be taken. The arguments that are flowing is that the Southeast voted overwhelmingly for the PDP. People are saying that is true.

“But looking at the religious balancing, we need a Muslim to occupy one of these positions. If we accept that argument, we

have to look for a candidate from a zone where we have Muslims. Will you come to the North, which has produced the VicePresident, the Senate President and the National Chairman of the party? Will that be fair to other Nigerians? These are the arguments, it is not something I can sit down here as a governor and pontificate upon.”

Responding to a question on Senate Presidency, Suswam said: “Let me touch on this. The issue of the Senate Presidency, I believe, is settled. I believe the Northcentral should retain the Senate Presidency based on the reasons I have given to you.

“If you do not give us the Senate President in the Northcentral what do you give us? We were holding the Senate Presidency and we have voted overwhelmingly for the PDP’’.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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NEWS Violence not part of polls, says, minister From Jide Babalola, Asst Editor, Abuja

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HE post-election violence that claimed several lives and properties in the North was deliberately orchestrated, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia has said.

Ajumogobia, who was addressing members of the diplomatic corps in Abuja at the weekend also dispelled the notion that violence is an integral part of the nation’s electoral process.

The minister also said thatthe Federal Government regretted the loss of lives and properties in the post-presidential election violence.

Pointing out that it would be out of place to perceive the recent spate of post-election violence as a usual part of the election process, he emphasised that history clearly indicates that Nigeria had conducted peaceful elections in the past.

Ajumogobia said there was the tendency in some quarters to attribute the wanton destruction and violence on the shortcomings of the elections, since some elections in the past had precipitated violence.

NANS makes case for improved power supply THE National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to ensure constant electricity supply so as to enhance economic growth and to attract foreign investors.

NANS President Bassey Etuk Williams and Secretary General Jossy Ekpe, in a communiqué said the students are satisfied with the manner President Goodluck Jonathan has been managing the power sector.

The statement said NANS would hold its ‘First All Nigerian Students Operation 20,000 Mega Watts Realisation Conference in Abuja next month. It said the programme would afford the government the platform to educate students on the way forward on the power projects.

The statement read: “The rationale for our present hopeful stance is that there are visible changes in the manner things are done in the power sector since the emergence of this administration. Besides, there are verifiable projects and infrastructural development in the sector”.

Senate presidency: Mark woos Ngige, Dariye, Adamu, Gaya , others •Ex-governors back Mark •Woman aspirant emerges for speaker against Obasanjo’s ally •Jonathan meets PDP chair, Mark, others

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ETERMINED not to leave his fate to chance, Senate President David Mark has held talks with five ex-governors, seeking their support on his bid to retain his job.

The ex-governors are Chris Ngige (senator-elect); Abdullahi Adamu (senator-elect); Kabir Gaya (a returnee Senator); Joshua Dariye (senatorelect) and Ahmed Makarfi (an outgoing senator) Besides, some old and new members of the House of Representatives met yesterday in Abuja to adopt a returnee member, Hon. Mulikat Akande-Adeola, for Speaker.

Muraina Suabana Ajibola, who is an ally of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, is interested in the job.

Mark met separately with the ex-governors at his official residence, pleading with them to “ensure continuity and fast-track legislative business,” by backing him, according to a source.

The source said: “Mark justified his return to the Senate by citing his achievements within four years, which he claimed have remained unequalled.

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

“He also explained why an experienced hand should manage the Senate instead of a rookie who will start all over.

“The Senate President spent much time to explain his vision of a free and non-partisan leadership style which had helped him to pilot the affairs of the Senate for four years without any stress.”

It was learnt that all the exgovernors promised to support Mark.

It was gathered that the outreach might have been an attempt to checkmate some governors from the Northeast who are trying to pressurise President Goodluck Jonathan to alter the power sharing formula.

A returnee Senator said: “In spite of the fact that the Presidency might retain the present zoning formula, Mark decided not to take things for granted.

“The truth is that those opposed to Mark from the Northeast are still covertly working against him. That is why he has decided to meet with all old and new senators

to sell his programmes and plans to them “You should also know that the Expanded Caucus and the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) might meet this week, the Senate President needs such a lobbying to secure the backing of these powerful organs.”

It was gathered that Dr Jonathan on Friday met with ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Mark, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, a former Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih, the National Chairman of PDP, Haliru Bello Mohammed; and the PDP National Secretary, Abubakar Kawu Baraje.

A source described the meeting as “purely consultative” on the zoning formula outlook ahead of caucus and BOT sessions this week.

“There have been protests from the Northeast, the Southeast and the Southwest. These leaders have met to work out a sharing formula that will be acceptable to all the six geopolitical zones,” he said, pleading not to be named.

At the meeting of some old

and new members of the House of Representatives in Abuja, the group insisted that the Southwest should retain the office. Besides, it is opposed to the alleged plot to impose Ajibola on the seventh House of Representatives.

The session was attended by some lawmakers and Repselect from the opposition parties.

At the meeting, a consensus was built around Mrs Akande-Adeola, who is representing Ogbomoso North/ South/Orire Federal Constituency.

A member of the House, who was at the meeting, said: “We have discovered that Mulikat Akande-Adeola will not attract controversy, unlike Ajibola, who is an acolyte of Obasanjo.”

“Mrs Akande-Adeola has a Master’s Degree in Law. She was company secretary/legal adviser of CMB Homes Limited before venturing into politics.

The number of aspirants jostling to be Speaker has increased to five. The rest three are Emeka Ihedioha, Bethel Amadi and Eziuche Ubani from the Southeast.

•Ogun State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) supporters at a thank-you-tour of Imeko-Afon Local Government ... at the weekend

PDP declares Defence Minister’s suspension illegal From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

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HE Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Mohammed Haliru Bello and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo have intervened in the suspension of the Minister of Defence, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode (SAN) by the Ondo State chapter of the party.

The party’s National Secretariat has declared the suspension of the Minister as illegal.

The Ondo State chapter had in April 29 letter by its Chairman Dr. Omotayo Dairo and Secretary Sola Oludipe, suspended Kayode for allegedly conniving with the Labour Party to deny PDP of victory during the just-concluded general elections.

The PDP National Chairman and Obasanjo on Friday called the state chapter to order on the illegality of the suspension.

They also asked the chapter to lift the suspension with immediate effect.

A member of the National Working Committee, who spoke in confidence, said: “Our leaders have interacted with the Minister and the state party leaders and we discovered that due process was not followed.

“Even the Minister was not given a fair hearing. But instead of apportioning blame, the acting National Chairman and the BOT chairman have called the local Executives to order.

“Our leaders have directed the state chapter to lift the suspension with immediate effect. They are likely to do so in the next one week.

“We cannot afford a divided house when PDP is looking forward to an electoral battle in the state next year.

Responding to a question, the NWC member said the Ondo State chapter violated Sections 21.9 and 10 of the party’s constitution on discipline of members.

The sections say: “Notwithstanding any other provision of this constitution relating to discipline, no Executive Committee at any level except the National Executive Committee shall entertain any question of discipline as may relate or concern a member of the National Executive Committee, public office holder i.e.

Ministers, Ambassadors, Special Advisers, Deputy Governors or member of any of the legislative houses.

Suspected killers of Corps members have confessed, says Yuguda •I did not spit on their graves, says Governor •To visit parents of the dead

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AUCHI State Governor Mallam Isa Yuguda has said that some suspects have confessed to killing nine corps members in the Northeast state.

The governor, who has been widely criticised for his reported views on the killings, said yesterday that some 600 suspects have been arrested, and promised that they would soon be prosecuted.

Besides, the governor said his comment on the death of the corps members was misunderstood.

The governor was reported to have said that the youths were destined to die.

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

But Yuguda said he only spoke in the light of the Islamic injunction that says Allah gives and takes.

Yuguda, who spoke in an emotional briefing in Abuja, repeatedly said: “I am not heartless, I am not a demon.”

He insisted that the law will take its course on the suspects.

His words: “Definitely, the law must take its own course; we have already arrested over 600 people, some of them actually did the thing; we are going to prosecute them.

“And the day I did mention

it, I said if the law will allow me, after they have been found guilty, if the law will allow, I will take the gun and shoot them myself.”

Fighting back tears, Yuguda offered his condolences to the families of the bereaved, speaking of his plan to visit them after his inauguration on May 29.

Yuguda said: “I am a parent too and my son was almost mobbed while returning to Bauchi and he had to run for cover; he escaped being attacked by the whiskers.”

“Like I said, what is that comment that led to the editor of a newspaper to write

that I spat on the graves of corps members. That was the wicked statement I have ever heard in my life.

“I became news, people were writing articles about me as if they don’t know my antecedent. You portrayed me as an animal, as somebody who is heartless, I think that person who has engineered the write-up, probably, he would have been compromised to run me down as an individual.

“After I cast my votes, the newsmen came to my residence and asked how were the elections. I said ... they went on and somebody asked me

my comments about the corps members that were killed; I said it was their time.

“Did I bring them to life? I didn’t bring them to life; God brought them to life. I said it was their time to die; they were destined to die. Those that were not destined to die, lived.

“And I tried my best as a governor because I was about the only governor who assembled his corps members in one place in the SSS College in Bauchi to protect them.

I fed them, I gave them money to buy clothes. You can ask them if you know any one of them.”

Pressed to clarify his controversial statement, Yuguda said: “I made the statement in the light of my faith. Yes, as a Muslim, that is what Islam says for any Muslim that there is time to come to the world and time to go. How can I spit on somebody who is a dead man?

“I wept even when the Director of NYSC came, when I was making my speech. I had to break my speech because I was remembering the day when those souls will meet me in my grave and they will ask me ‘why did you allow people to slaughter me in your own land when you were a leader?’

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

5

NEWS Ajimobi warns Alao-Akala on minimum wage

Be committed to party values, Tinubu urges Lagos lawmakers O

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ORMER Lagos State Governor and leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has urged members of the House of Assembly to be dedicated to party programmes and values.

Tinubu spoke at the weekend, when the Speaker, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, led both current and newly elected members on a visit to his home in Bourdillon, Ikoyi.

He urged them to be disciplined and united.

By Oziegbe Okoeki

Tinubu said: “If you don’t dedicate yourselves to lawmaking that will enhance good government and service to our people, they will reject you next time and you would have let our party down.

“Only few people enjoy what you have. You have been chosen to be the voice and advocate of good governance; to represent our people. You are facing a big challenge and all eyes will

be on you. You must work harder to keep the success.

“You have a serious task ahead of you. You must be the ears and eyes of not only your constituency but the whole state, so you must be focused. You cannot afford to be selfish.

“Governor Babatunde Fashola has worked hard to achieve party objectives, which has increased our governors to six. You must symbolise that clear objective of a progressive.”

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Ikuforiji thanked Tinubu for his support during thelast elections.

He said: “You led us to the battlefield as a Field Marshal. You instructed us and we followed. We fought and won in an unprecedented way.

“We are happy that we have you, you have always led us aright and we felt it is important to see you and say thank you, and to tell the world that we are very proud of our father and mentor.”

YO State governor-elect Senator Abiola Ajimobi has warned Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala against approving the new minimum wage for workers.

Ajimobi spoke yesterday after indications at the weekend that Alao-Akala was planning to approve the new wage today.

He said it would be wrong for Alao-Akala to do so in the twilight of his departure.

In a letter, Ajimobi said: “It would amount to mischief and a calculated attempt to undermine the authority of the incoming administration, if Your Excellency goes ahead to approve the new minimum wage in this suspicious and controversial manner and at a time when you are almost out of office.”

He said the approval of the new wage would be contrary to the commendable statesmanship that Alao-Akala had demonstrated since he lost the election.

In another letter to the State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ajimobi warned labour leaders against turning themselves into willing tools in the hands of desperate politicians.

He reiterated his commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of workers.

Corps members donate to inmates

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•Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Adeniyi Oyemade flanked on the left by the Permanent Secretary in his ministry, Mr Wale Raji and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Olusola Omoru during the 2011 ministerial press briefing on Lagos State Government’s activities in Alausa...at the weekend

Ekiti Education Summit recommends one state varsity HE Ekiti Education Summit has recommended that the state concentrates on one university, rather than dissipate resources on the existing three.

This was made known in a statement by a committee chaired by Dr. Femi Orebe at the end of the summit.

Although the summit was not categorical on which universities should be scrapped, the Visitation Panel earlier set up by the government proposed that The University of Education, Ikere-Ekiti, (TUNEDIK) and University of Science and Technology, Ifaki-Ekiti, (USTI) be merged with the University of Ado-Ekiti

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From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

(UNAD).

The summit, chaired by Prof. Sam Aluko, a renowned economist and retired university don, said it was better to have one well-funded university than three inadequately funded ones with half baked graduates.

Participants also advised the government to impose education tax on companies registered and operating in the state to generate funds to revamp education.

The statement reads: “Government should provide adequate teaching and learning materials for use in primary schools and train

‘University education is capital intensive and the government must be ready to inject adequate funds into the sector’ teachers to use them. Adequate incentives should be provided for teachers who work in the rural areas.

“The Teaching Service Commission should ensure that candidates undergo

both written and oral interviews before they are employed as teachers in secondary schools. There should also be effective performance appraisal for teachers every three years.

“University education is capital intensive and the government must be ready to inject adequate funds into the sector. Ekiti State should concentrate its resources on one university rather than three.

“Finances for education should be sourced from industries, the Education Tax Fund (ETF), Petroleum Special Tax Fund (PTF), International Development Partners and Private/Public Partnership Initiative.”

Party suspends 30 members in Ogun

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ogun State has suspended 30 of its members in Sagamu Local Government for alleged “gross indiscipline, disruption of party programmes and destruction of party properties” during membership registration last December.

They are: Abiodun Onafuwa, Muri Awolaja, Gbade Bashorun, Adefoluwe

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

Adesanya, Banjoko Adekanbi, Muniru Taiyu, Kehinde Sadiq, Oyekan Tunde, Oladoyin Bisiriyu, Lateef Sadiq, Kazeem Ayoola, S.A. Akinsanya, Daisi Ashaye, Tunde Sonubi, Rafiu Awoyemi and Kunle Awoyemi.

Others are: Mrs. Toyin Jekami, Chief J.O. Oduntan,

Isiaka Ajayi, Odusote Rasaq, Jamiu Awoyemi, Akeem Okewunmi, Funbi Onafowokan, Tayo Sodade, Taiwo Odunayo, O. Mosunmola, Segun Shotimehin, Yiga Awoyemi and Mrs Iyabo Balogun.

ACN Chairman in the council, Otunba Samsideen Osho, said their suspension took effect from last January 17.

Osho said they failed to

appear before disciplinary committees set up at the ward, council and state levels and the party had no option but to suspend them.

He said: “Rather than show remorse, they became bolder in error and even dragged the party to court.

But they lost, as the judge held that having been suspended from the party, they lacked the rights to institute action against us.”

ATIONAL youth Service Corps (NYSC) members belonging to the Nigeria Red Cross Society yesterday donated gifts to inmates of Kuje Maximum Prison. Abuja.

The donation, preceded by a novelty match between the inmates and corps members, was in commemoration of the World Red Cross Day. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chairman of the Red Cross Society, Mr. Taiye Olaniyi, said donations were part of voluntary humanitarian services to the society.

The gesture, he said, was to give the inmates a sense of belonging.

Olaniyi said: “We may not be able to give very costly things, but the spirit of humanitarian service and giving is what really brought us here. “We wanted them to

From Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

win the match, so that they can enjoy a sense of belonging. We believe they should be shown care, so that after active transformation, they would contribute to national development.”

He urged individuals and corporate bodies to reach out to prisoners.

Welfare Officer of the Prison Mr. Yusuf Sarki thanked the corps members.

President of the inmates Emmanuel Otu said: “We can feel the love you have for us.

We appreciate you for setting aside time to celebrate with us and see us as one of you.

“I assure you that whatever brought us here has reformed us. We are trying our best to be better people when we join others in the society.”

Mimiko urges agency to intensify work on N150m market

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OVERNOR Olusegun Mimiko has urged the Ondo State Direct Labour Agency to speed up work on the reconstruction of the N150 million Moferere market in Ondo town.

The market, when completed, will be one of the biggest in the state.

Mimiko spoke at the weekend, during an inspection of the first phase of the market.

He said: “I thank the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Victor Kiladejo, for mobilising the market women to cooperate and support the men working on site.

“I appreciate all the workers and I appeal to you to put in more efforts and complete this project on schedule.”

The Senior Special Assistant on Direct Labour, Mrs Mobolaji Tunde-Suara, who showed the governor and his entourage round, said the market has over 600 open stalls for local traders, administrative offices, security posts and public toilets.

The Mimiko-led administration had in the last two years constructed ultra- modern markets in Akure, Ikare, Owo, Okitipupa, Iju/Ita-Ogbolu, among others, to deter road-side trading.

LP did not back Jonathan because of appointments, says Akinlaja

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HE Deputy National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Dr.

Joseph Akinlaja, yesterday said the party did not back President Goodluck Jonathan in theApril 16 elections because of federal appointments.

Akinlaja, who is the lawmaker-elect for Ondo East/ West in the House of Representatives, spoke with reporters in Akure, the state capital.

He said LP national leaders did not direct members to vote for Jonathan in exchange for anything.

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

Akinlaja said: “The Labour Party did not support Jonathan because of appointments. We supported him because we wanted the best for Nigeria. We voted for Jonathan because there was no better candidate among the contenders.

“We did not sign any pact and Jonathan has not promised us political appointments.

If any appointment is given to us, it will be deliberated upon by the National Working Committee (NWC).

When we get to that bridge, we shall cross it.”

6

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

NEWS

ACN to inspect election materials in Akwa Ibom T

HE Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Akwa Ibom State has granted the prayers of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to inspect sensitive election materials used for the April 26 election.

The application was filed

by ACN governorship candidate James Udoedehe; his running mate, Dr. Ime Umanah .

The defendants are: Governor Godswill Akpabio; his running mate, Nsima Ekere; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); and Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC).

In the motion ex-parte signed by the secretary to

•REC: We’ve not been informed

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

the tribunal, A. Ariyo, ACN is seeking permission to inspect and take copies of all polling documents or packets relating to or pertaining to the April 26 governorship election.

The party is also asking for the certified true copies of results in the prescribed form used for the election; ballot papers account and verification used to dispatch ballot papers to all wards.

Also sought is the list of ad-hoc staff engaged in the said election, forms EC8A (1), EC8A, EC8B, EC8C,

EC8D, and EC8E. Other forms are EC40B, EC40C, EC40F, EC40GI, EC60E and EC25B. ACN also sought the certificates of completion of registration for all the local governments and the EC17 copies of Oath of Neutrality sworn to by INEC workers and ad-hoc staff engaged for the conduct of the election.

The party also sought an order directing the fourth and fifth respondents to confirm in writing the unavailability and the reason for the unavailability of

any such result forms or other polling documents relating or pertaining to the election which are in the custody of the fourth respondent which are directly or through the fifth respondent or any other agent of the fourth respondent.

Contacted, the REC, Mrs. Maria Owi, said she had not received the order.

Mrs. Owi said: “I have not been served with the order but if such a thing should happen they should write to INEC headquarters in Abuja. Abuja will now direct us to release those things.

“That is the normal thing.

Abuja should write to us just like they have written to us on the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) Presidential issues and we would comply.”

Witchcraft Commission ends sitting

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HE Akwa Ibom State Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Witchcraft Accusations and Child Abuses yesterday ended its sitting in London, United Kingdom (UK), the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

The commission was established last November by Governor Godswill Akpabio to investigate the extent of child witchcraft accusations and give recommendations.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekpeyong Ntekim, said the commission had obtained oral evidence from a UK-based child rights Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Stepping Stone Nigeria (SSN).

He said the commission could not sit in Nigeria “due to some security reasons.’’

SSN Advocacy Programme Officer Emilie Secker said the organisation had submitted an 800-page dossier of evidence.

Okpe Day for May 16

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HE 81st anniversary of Okpe Union will hold on May 16 at Okpe Union Headquarters, 65 Moshalasi Street, Obalende, Lagos at 2pm.

According to the union’s Secretary-General, Henry Ebireri, the theme is: “Taking Okpe Kingdom to the next level”.

In a statement yesterday in Lagos, Ebireri said: “The event is to sensitise and educate Okpe people on key issues, to task the state and federal governments on the

issues affecting the kingdom; promote Okpe culture; review the state of development; provide fresh and in-depth perspectives to Okpe issues/challenges and identify critical factors in the development of the kingdom.”

The union, Ebireri said, hopes to provide a platform to allow indigenes from within and outside the country to reflect on the past and also discuss current state of the country.

Oshiomhole congratulates Oyedepo

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DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has congratulated Bishop David Oyedepo and members of the Living Faith Church (Winner’s Chapel) on the church’s 30th anniversary.

The governor, in a congratulatory letter to Bishop Oyedepo, acknowledged the church’s intercession, through prayers for the peace, progress and prosperity of the state.

“It gives me great pleasure to felicitate with you on the occasion of the 30th an-

niversary of the founding of the Living Faith Church (Winner`s Chapel).

“The Living Faith Church has become a prominent and distinguished member of the Body of Christ in Nigeria, by dint of your profound fidelity to your vision, passionate and effective ministration, and your deep spiritual leadership.

“We wish you the best of health divine grace and many more years of service to the Body of Christ and humanity.”

Lawyer calls for reduction of fees •From left: Delta State Deputy Governor Prof Amos Utuama (SAN); a palace chief and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atunwatse II, during the monarch’s 24th Coronation Anniversary thanksgiving at the Foursquare Gospel Church, Warri…yesterday

Generator fumes kill man in Bayelsa

A

MIDDLE-AGED man has been killed by generator fumes in Akaba community, Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, three days after moving into his apartment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the man, whose name was given as Funkebi Moses, was a native of Angalabiri, Sagbama Local Government.

An eyewitness said Moses died after he inhaled carbon monoxide from the generator he had put on the previous night in his kitchen.

The witness said the body was discovered after a neighbour went to Moses’ apartment to return a hammer he borrowed from him.

Neighbours were said to have broken into his room when he did not open the

door after several knocks, despite the generator being on and Moses’ lifeless body was on the bed.

The door was forced open, the generator was still running in the kitchen with all the windows and door locked.

The landlord, Nelson Yongoi, confirmed the incident.

Moses’ remains have

Why Akpabio won, by commissioner

A

KWA Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Social Reorientation Aniekan Umanah has explained why Governor Godswill Akpabio was re-elected.

He said Akpabio’s performance during his first tenure accounted for his reelection.

Umanah, in a statement, outlined what he described as Akpabio’s achievements.

He said the governor would surpass his past efforts.

He said the reelection and the success recorded by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) confirmed the party’s popularity in the state.

He also praised Youth Corps members for their contributions to the success of the last elections.

“The Akwa Ibom people,

By Eric Ikhilae

through their votes, spoke most eloquently about their preference for a man who has not only achieved development of the state, but has also been a unifying factor of diverse interests.

“The people remembered that the promise keeper had done more than he promised to justify the mandate earlier given him in 2007.

“The electorate remembered that Akpabio promised to change the state from a pedestrian state to a destination of choice.

“Even the opposition commended him for his performance and could not fault him on performance. .

“Before the election, all the ethnic groups had endorsed

Akpabio as their candidate for the sake of justice, equity and unity .

“It is the Akwa Ibom people who deserve the toast for rising above ethnic bigotry and other divisive tendencies and casting their votes for unity, progress and sustainable development,” he said.

The commissioner praised members of the opposition, who congratulated Akpabio and other PDP candidates, noting that their conducts indicated that democracy was taking root in the state.

He said Akpabio will sustain the development in the state with the execution of more projects to aid its economic and social development.

been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre mortuary in Yenagoa.

Police spokesman Eguaveon Emokpai said he had not received any formal report of the incident.

Moses’ death brings to three the number of persons, who have been killed by generator fumes in Yenagoa this year.

From Kunle Johnson, Calabar

A

LAWYER in Cross River State, Chief Utum Eteng, has called for the reduction of the N400,000 deposit by petitioners before filing a petition at the Election Petitions Tribunal.

Eteng said the amount was the highest in the history of election petitions in Nigeria and amounts to justice for sale.

He appealed to the President of the Court of Appeal to reduce it.

His words: “It is undemocratic for a petitioner to pay as much as N400,000, before filing a petition. It is the highest since the history of election petitions in Nigeria.

“It amounts to justice for sale, and justice for the rich. It is not only punitive but also scaring and demoralising.”

“Election petitions are filed to challenge electoral fraud perceived, and the Electoral Act of 2010 made elaborate provisions to encourage aggrieved contestants to seek redress in the Election Tribunals rather than resort to violence.”

He warned that the judiciary should not use high deposits to stop those who are genuinely cheated away from the court or tribunal.

123456789012345 123456789012345 123456789012345 123456789012345 JTF warns against attack on oil facilities 123456789012345 123456789012345 HE Joint Task Force From Shola O’Neil, Warri 123456789012345 (JTF) in the Niger Del123456789012345 ta, ‘Operation Restore 123456789012345 ing as freedom fighters and yesterday vowed to 123456789012345 Hope’, sponsors.

123456789012345 deal with any group, includ- their JTF spokesperson Lt. Col 123456789012345 ing militants, who try to foTimothy Antigha said:“No 123456789012345 trouble in the wake of individual or group has the 123456789012345 ment the recently concluded elec123456789012345 to take the law into its tions in the region.

123456789012345 The warning came against right hands or resort to self-help 123456789012345 because his/her preferred backdrop of threats by an 123456789012345 the candidate did not win the unknown group, Coalition of 123456789012345 election.

123456789012345 Niger Delta Freedom Fight“The Federal Government 123456789012345 ers, to cripple the oil indus123456789012345 has constituted Election Tritry in Delta State.

123456789012345 bunals to handle all election Sources said the group, 123456789012345 related petitions. which is believed to be spon123456789012345 “The JTF, therefore, advissored by the opposition, 123456789012345 es all aggrieved parties to apvowed to cripple the oil in123456789012345 proach the tribunal with evi123456789012345 dustry to protest the victory dence of alleged malpractic123456789012345 of Governor Emmanuel Ud123456789012345

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•Akpabio

uaghan.

But the JTF warned that it would punish criminals pos-

es, instead of engaging the services of discredited individuals to threaten the state.”

7

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

NEWS Jigawa to sue Turaki From Eunice Bosua, Dutse

JIGAWA State Government it will sue former Governor Saminu Turaki for allegedly stealing about N24.5 billion during his tenure, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi has said.

Abdullahi, told reporters in Dutse, the state capital after an executive council meeting that Turaki spent N12 billion on the botched third term project.

He alleged that the former governor withdrew N7 billion for “water for all project”, which he did not do.

Abdullahi said other financial allegations against the governor include the withdrawal of N5 billion for the construction of eastern bypass that he did not execute.

The SSG alleged that Turaki wasted N500 million on a phony purchase of sesame seed for exportation.

The government, he said, would recover the money to enable it pay the N18,000 minimum wage approved by the Federal Government to its workers.

He said other former officials who have allegedly soiled their hands are the state’s former Accountant-General, Alhaji Isa Alkasim, who was also the state Auditor-General.

NMA protests appointment of UNIJOS VC

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HE Plateau State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has objected to the appointment of Prof. Hayward Mafuyai as the new Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), claiming that a wrong process was adopted.

This “wrong process can never be used to achieve this right result” NMA said .

Mafuyai is expected to succeed the outgoing VC, Prof. Sonny Tyoden, whose tenure expires next month.

In a statement by its chairman, Dr. V. C. Pam, NMA condemned the action but urged its members to remain law-abiding while “the matter is being pursued until justice is served”.

The statement reads in

From Marie-Therese Peter, Jos

part: “The Governing Council of the UNIJOS caused an advertorial to be published in ThisDay on November 30, 2010, inviting interested candidates to apply for appointment to the office of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos. “For cogent and compelling reasons, the NMA strongly objected to two clauses in the advertorial which were totally discriminatory to its members.

These clauses are: ‘The applicant must be PhD holders’; ‘the applicants must be of the rank of professors of not less than five years’.

“The inclusion of the phrase: ‘must be a PhD holder’ constitutes a deliberate

“The conclusion was that the announcement was made to fasttrack the process to frustrate our legitimate claims and render a situation of helplessness on the outcome of the court hearing” exclusion of professors of medicine and dentistry who are fellows of the National Post-Graduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPGMCN) and West African College of

Surgeons and Physicians (WACS/P). A fellowship of the college is equivalent to the PhD, at the very least, and makes the holder undoubtedly qualified to be considered for appointment as Vice-Chancellor to any university in Nigeria.

“The arbitrary imposition of a term of ‘not less than five years experience’ is vague, equivocal, arbitrary and takes no account of the years of training of clinical lecturers and holders of the aforementioned fellowships.

“Despite the above concerns which have been brought to the attention of the Governing Council via a motion of notice filed at the Federal High Court in Jos on May 4, the Governing Council hurriedly made an announcement on May 7.

Katsina fuel scarcity worries task force From Isah Idris, Katsina

THE Katsina State Task Force on Supply and Distribution of Petroleum Products has expressed worry over fuel scarcity.

Its chairman, Alhaji Lawal Balarabe Sauri told reporters in Katsina yesterday that the government was worried by the unavailability of the products.

It is also worried by its exorbitant price.

Sauri regretted the effect of the scarcity on economic and social lives as tanker drivers continued to boycott the lifting of petroleum products since the post-election riots in the North.

He attributed the scarcity to tanker drivers’ fears that they might encounter reprisal attacks on their supply routes.

According to him, there are some unidentified forces “within the system” causing the scarcity.

Sauri, who is the Permanent Secretary for Special Duties, said diesel, which sold for N115, was now selling for N215, adding that petrol and kerosene were affected.

According to him, the committee reached a resolution that security escorts should be attached to trucks lifting petroleum products to their delivery points.

He said the committee would dialogue with depot managers in Kaduna and Kano to reverse the situation.

Sauri said the committee would sanction filling stations found hoarding products or sabotaging efforts to improve the situation.

He solicited the cooperation of the media and the security agencies to sensitise the public on the need for peace, adding that the government was working to end the people’s suffering.

•Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his wife Olukemi with Mrs Anike Jobi-Fele during the 40th day Fidau for the late frontline businessman, Mohammed Jobi-Fele at Sky Power Aviation Ground, Ikeja, Lagos...yeaterday. PHOTO:SOLOMON ADEOLA

ECWA decries proliferation of illegal arms

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HE Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has decried the use of illegal arms by hoodlums during last month’s post-election riots in some northern states.

It urged governments at all levels to withdraw such arms from circulation.

In a communique after its 56th General Council Church (GCC) meeting held from May 3 to 5 at the church headquarters in Jos, the Plateau State capital, ECWA said it lost 32 members, three ministers, 48 churches and pastorates.

It added that 162 members

From Marie-Therese Peter, Jos

lost their houses and property to the mayhem.

The communiqué, signed

by Rev. Anthony Farinto and Rev. Mipo Dadang, the Church’s President and General Secretary, said if the arms were not withdrawn, they would be used for robbery and other acts of brutality.

The church urged “the leadership of this nation, and particularly the states where the crisis took place, to compensate the victims for their losses, because we

feel that they have failed in their responsibilities of protecting the lives of the citizens”.

Condemning the violence, ECWA said the riots were “deliberate efforts by enemies to truncate our growing democracy and a misplaced aggression against the church, which is not a political party”.

It added: “The crisis was religious, well planned and well executed and as such perpetrators must be brought to book to serve as a deterrence to other trouble makers.”

The church praised the In-

dependent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the successful polls, which it said were adjudged as credible, though not perfect.

It congratulated the winners, urging the Christians among them to “uphold the sanctity of the faith and be guided by biblical teachings in the offices they will occupy and serve with the fear of God and for the people”.

The church has increased the number of its district church councils (DCCs) in Nigeria and abroad to 78 with the creation of three new DCCs.

‘Our opponents planning to burn INEC offices’

K

WARA State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship candidate Mr Mohammed Belgore (SAN) yesterday demanded the strengthening of security beefed up at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices following what he called plots by “our opponents” to burn them and electoral materials used in last month’s disputed elections.

Belgore is challenging the outcome of the governorship poll, which the INEC declared in favour of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

•Police deny knowledge candidate Abdulfatah Ahmed.

A statement by Belgore’s media aide, Rafiu Ajakaye, reads: “We hereby bring to public notice, especially all the security agencies, the alleged plan by our opponents to burn down INEC offices across Kwara State, including the headquarters in Ilorin, in a bid to destroy the weight of evidence against their purported election in the just-concluded general elections.

“The plan includes burning down the offices and destroying all the materials used for the election.

“Our recent political history is replete with instances of such desperate actions and that makes this hint something worthy of serious attention from all concerned authorities, especially the Police, the State Security Service (SSS) and INEC. “We see no reason for any politician or party to want to destroy election materials

other than an attempt to cover up any act that runs foul of the law and offends the democratic rights of the people.

“We plead with security agencies and INEC to beef up security in and around the headquarters of the electoral commission to ward off any potential danger to the election materials that would be useful to confirm or disprove the fairness or otherwise of the ballot.”

Police spokesman, Dabo Ezekiel said the Police were not aware of any plot to burn INEC office.

“The pertinent question that begs for answer is why was not the announcement made on May 4, after the so-called meeting of the council, but on Saturday, which was not a working day. The conclusion is that the announcement was made to fast-track the process to frustrate our legitimate claims and render a situation of helplessness on the outcome of the court hearing.

“NMA objects to the said announcement and the entire process because of the belief that a wrong process can never be used to achieve the right result.”

Niger probes contracts

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HE Niger State Government has set up a committee to probe all contracts executed during the first term of the Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyuled administration.

The committee is headed by the Head of Service, Alhaji Ahmed Matane.

A statement in Minna by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya, said the committee would take stock of activities and contracts awarded by the administration in the past four years to chart a new course for Aliyu’s second term.

Yahaya urged the members to conduct impact assessment of contracts awarded by government since 2007 on the people.

The committee is also to attend to issues arising from the execution of such projects to ensure probity and accountability.

The statement directed the committee to identify grey areas of governance in the past four years to enable the government tap such potentials for the development.

Dabo backs Suswam to sack political officers

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PEOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees member, Chief Godwin Dabo, has supported Governor Gabriel Suswam’s decision to sack those who worked against the party’s interest in last month’s elections.

In a statement in Makurdi, the state capital, Dabo urged Suswam not be selective in his sanction against those who betrayed the party but to give equal treatment to all.

He said it was unfortunate that some foundation members betrayed the party at a critical period.

Dabo called for more penalty against such members.

Dabo said: “How can Paul Unongo, who is the greatest beneficiary of the PDP and of Suswam administration turn around and work against his re-election, yet he still claim to be a PDP, that’s account for while his wife was sacked from the Suswam caninet as a Commissioner,” Dabo said.

“I am supporting every move by Suswam to instill disciple in the party and it must go beyond commissioners, but everyone who failed to deliver during the April election should be booted out and the party re-position.”

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

8

NEWS

Ribadu in Afghanistan for UN

Aregbesola bags award in UK From Soji Adeniyi, Osogbo

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN) presidential candidate Mallam Nuhu Ribadu yesterday began a threeweek country governance audit of Afghanistan as part of a six-man international monitoring team set up by the United Nations under the “Afghanistan Anti-Corruption Monitoring and Evaluation Committee.”

Ribadu left Nigeria for Afghanistan last Tuesday. He joined five other team members in Dubai; and travelled to Kabul Afghanistan, at the weekend, where they are expected to fine-tune the strategy of curbing corruption in the troubled country.

The committee’s duties, according to the Department of Foreign International Development (DFID) and the United Nations Development Programme office, include a review of the social, political, economic and cultural conditions giving life to corruption in the country, which they tagged: “drivers of corruption,” and a sustainable proposal on how to curb the crime and moral ill that have ravaged the image and international standing of the conflict-ridden country.

Aside from offering best “approach and principles” of fighting corruption, on a legal basis”, the monitoring team, according to its mandate, is also expected to propose ways of ensuring that international aid and development financing to Afghanistan meets with the country’s “national priorities.”

Afghanistan (ranked 176th) is the third most corrupt country, with a CPI (corruption perception index) of 1.4, according to Transparency International, with only Somalia (178) and Myanmar (176) ranked worst. Nigeria is ranked 134 with a CPI of 2.4 among the 178 countries ranked Members of the committee, who were appointed last year, began work on April 21 with a teleconference on the task at hand and how to achieve their mission.

The monitoring and evaluation is expected to help the Afghanistan government in its fight against corruption and also guide the international community on how best to relate with the country.

Though the committee is expected to complete its work in two years, media aide to Mallam Ribadu, Ibrahim Modibbo, said the task will not affect Ribadu’s national priorities and his continued commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria.

Youths Empowerment Scheme (O’YES), within his first 100 days in office, Governor Rauf Aregbesola has been awarded a Leadership Recognition for Youth Empowerment in the United Kingdom (UK).

Action Congress of Nigeria( ACN) in the UK gave the award to Aregbesola, who has been on a working visit abroad since last week.

Chairman of the ACN at the award ceremony Ayodele Owoade described O’YES as a laudable achievement.

“It is a record-breaking achievement to employ 20,000 youths. This feat has never been achieved by any government anywhere in Africa before now.Aregbesola has restored hope and self-esteem to these youths who now walk about with confidence in themselves.” he said.

Aregbesola praised members of the chapter for their contribution to the restoration of his mandate.

•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, with Chairman, United Kingdom chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Dr. Ayodele Owoade at an award ceremony in honour of the governor on youth empowerment in London

PDP, CNPP, others congratulate Okorocha

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HE National Alliance for Sustainable Democracy (NASD), a

pro-democracy group, has congratulated Owelle Rochas Okorocha of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) on his victory in the supplementary governorship election in Imo State.

A statement by its president, Okorie Onwuchekwa Orji, reads: “We rejoice with Owelle Okorocha on his remarkable victory over the incumbent, Governor Ikedi Ohakim, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

“This is a signal that the electorate can no longer be taken for granted by their leaders. It is a giant leap forward for Nigerian democracy.

“NASD commends the electorate who voted for APGA and protected their votes. We urge Okorocha to provide democracy dividends to the people who have suffered under the Ohakim-led government.

“Today, APGA has become a factor in Southeast politics.

A lot is expected from the

governor-elect. We urge him to appoint credible men and women into office and carry the people along in all his programmes. The success of his government will attract more people to APGA. “Progressive parties have made remarkable impact in the general elections. We commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting free and fair polls. It is hoped that the Commission will improve on its performance in future elections.”

The Citizens Popular Party (CPP), National Movement of

Progressive Party (NMPP) and the Imo State chapter of the PeoplesDemocratic Party(PDP) also congratulated Okorocha.

The result of the election, the parties said, reflected the will of the people, adding: “We are of the view that the election was free, fair, credible and transparent.”

A statement by CPP National Chairman Maxi Okwu and his NMPP counterpart Lawrence Atuana reads: “We urge the governor-elect to formulate and implement peopleoriented programmes that will raise the living standard

of the people.

“It is obvious that the system is not perfect, we are not yet there but Nigeria is on the march again.

“The NMPP congratulates Okorocha. This is democracy in action. The election was free and fair in spite of obvious lapses.

“We urge Okorocha to justify the confidence the Imo State people reposed in him and deliver democracy dividends to them.

“Democracy has come to stay, we urge politicians to eschew bitterness and accept the will of the people at all times.”

Anambra polls: Returning Officer alleges threats to life •INEC man seeks police protection •Claims Uba, police abducted him

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HE Returning Officer (RO)for Onitsha South I constituency in Anambra, Steve Ibenta, has cried out over threats to his life for declaring the Action congress of Nigeria (ACN)candidate Emeka Aniebonam winner of the election.

In his report of what transpired during the election, Ibenta sought police protection from President Goodluck Jonathan, Inspector- General of Police Hafiz Ringim and Anambra State Governor Peter Obi. He appealed that the selfstyled political godfather of Anambra politics Chris Uba and the Criminal Investigation Department(CID) be restrained from harassing and prosecuting him.

Ibenta said: “The government should provide security for me and my family now that we have been exposed to danger.”

Uba and the police last Saturday allegedly invaded the RO’s home in Awka.

The report reads in part:

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

“In the morning of April 28, the District Police Officer (DPO) of B Division told me that I was arrested for alteration of election result. I was forced to make a statement by the police. Around 10.00am, I was detained at the state Criminal Investigation Departyment (CID).

“Later in the afternoon, after adopting the statement I

made at B Division, they took me to Chris Uba’s home at Udoka Housing Estate Awka.

“The statement I made at the police station was given to him to vet before I was driven back to the state CID. It was only after this, that the police accepted that I should be granted bail and I was later released around 7.30pm with an order to report the next day by 8.30am.

“As soon as I reported to

the state CID around 10.30am on April 29, they drove me to Uba’s residence.

He ordered them to take me to INEC office. I was taken in a Mercedes Benz car with a Superintendent of Police while Chris Uba and an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) followed with a patrol vehicle and a motorcade to INEC office.

“At the REC’s office, I was detained by the police while Uba was holding a meeting

with the REC and other INEC officials.

“After the meeting, they told me to make a hand written report of the election which would enable them withdraw the Declaration form EC8E, so that I could collate the result of those two wards where the Ward Collation Officers absconded with the results, which INEC claimed was in its custody.

Okorocha’s victory excites Akunyili

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ORMER Minister of Information and Communications Prof. Dora Akunyili is excited over the victory of Chief Rochas Okorocha of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the supplementary governorship election in Imo. Akunyili, who contested election for the Anambra Central senatorial district on the platform of APGA on

OR generating 20,000 jobs under the Osun

April 26, but lost to former Governor Chris Ngige, also praised the courage of the people of the state.

She said Okorocha’s victory was worthy of celebration.

“I am happy for Rochas; for our great party, APGA, and for the good people of Imo State whose will has prevailed.”

Imo State Chairman of APGA Mike Kwentor said Okorocha’s victory indicated

that the party had won previous elections in the state.

He said: “I thank God for vindicating us. In the past elections in Imo, we were always rigged out.

“But this time around, God has heard our prayers and has blessed us with Rochas Okorocha.

“It avails us the opportunity to know that the Southeast belongs to us and for us to continue to battle until the

•Mrs Akunyili

entire region is fully set free from the shackles of antiprogressives.’’

Activists hail Imo electorate

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HE Civil Society Election Situation Room has hailed the courage and persistence of the electorate in the supplementary governorship election in Imo State.

The group said the electorate prevailed in the election.

A statement by the group reads: “We hail the courage and persistence of the electorate in ensuring that the supplementary election was free and fair. In all the polling units observed, it was clear that the people were united in their determination that the usual malpractices associated with elections would not prevail.

“We would also like to note the professionalism of the military, which was instrumental in ensuring a level playing field for all.

This was especially true where, in a particular polling unit, hired thugs of one of the political parties attempted to attack election observers in order to subvert the process. Unfortunately, the same could not be said of the police who acted in a partisan manner.

“We would like to commend the courage of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the election at Oguta, based on observable facts.

“The Civil Society Election Situation Room remains mystified at the failure of INEC to deliver election materials on time, which was the case in many of the polling units in the four local governments. Election materials arrived after 11 a.m., just one hour before accreditation was supposed to have ended. It was this same problem that caused the initial postponement of the National Assembly election.

“We urge the police to cooperate with INEC to prosecute those found to have committed electoral offences. We also advised INEC to return to the drawing board ahead of 2015 elections.”

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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NEWS How Jonathan can succeed, by Niger Delta Forum

HURIWA urges end to fuel scarcity

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By Emmanuel Oladesu Deputy Political Editor

NIGER Delta Nationality Forum yesterday listed the conditions for a successful tenure for President Goodluck Jonathan, urging him to satisfy the aspirations of Nigerians.

The Lagos-based group enjoined the President to focus on energy, infrastructural development, security of lives and property, education and health sectors.

The organisation urged state governors in the Niger Delta region to take advantage of the Jonathan presidency to buy into the petroleum sector by jointly establishing refineries.

Its chairman, Chief Manager Seigha, thanked Lagosisans for voting en mass for Dr Jonathan during the presidential elections, assuring that he would transform the country.

He condemned the postelection violence in some parts of the North and commiserated with the bereaved, who had suffered untold hardship, owing to the crisis.

Seigha appealed to the aggrieved parties to use peaceful and legal means to settle electoral disputes.

He urged the President to show appreciation to Nigerians for focusing on power, road construction, security and social services, stressing that these are the pressing challenges facing the country.

Seigha also implored the President to resolve the Niger Delta crisis by bringing development to the oil-rich zone.

He said: “President Jonathan must address the Niger Delta issue headlong.

After his four years, Niger Delta should not be in a position where it will say it is still being marginalised. A situation where foreign oil companies operating in the region, sell oil blocs without the active participation of the host communities and qualified Niger Deltans in the sector is not acceptable.”

NYSC offers special mass for slain corps members SPECIAL prayers were yesterday offered at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Abuja, for the repose of the soul of youth corps members, who died in the post-election violence in Bauchi State.

Revd-Father Thomas Asen, who presided over the emotion-laden service, urged the Federal Government to provide automatic employment for unemployed family members of the slain corps members. He said the government should provide scholarship for the children that some of them left behind.

“There is time for everything, the world we are living in is not our permanent home, we shall all return to our maker one day”, he added Nine male corps members were killed in the aftermath of the violence that followed the announcement of the presidential election results.

A female corps member died while in the hospital.

•Mrs. Olukoya presenting a car key to one of the first class graduates...yesterday

MFM rewards first class graduates with car gifts

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WENTY one first class graduates, members of theMountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), have been rewarded with car gifts for their academic excellence by the General Overseer ofthe church, Dr Daniel Olukoya.

They were presented with the gifts during the monthly Power Must Change Hands programme of the church held at the MFM Prayer City along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway at the weekend .

The gesture, under the auspices of the Dr Daniel Olukoya Academic Award for Excellence, according to Olukoya ,was to promote academic excellence and reward diligence for outstanding youths.

By Sunday Ogundugba

The award was introduced last year to encourage exemplary graduates of the church, who make first class in any discipline in the university.

It is part of the church’s 21point agenda to reposition youths and rescue them from vices.

The first-class graduates, who came from institutions within and outside the country, turned out in special attires and were loudly applauded by the congregation as they filed out to receive their gifts. They were advised to remain diligent and to be focused.

Olukoya’s wife, Sade, who presented the cars, said the

gifts were a directive from God to encourage the students and members of the church to put in their best in whatever they were doing.

She noted that the gesture was also meant to reposition the youths and keep them away from negative influences.

Mrs Olukoya, who prayed for the beneficiaries, advised them to put the gift into good use, even as she urged them to fear God and be obedient to His commandments.

One of the beneficiaries, Miss Yewande Abraham, a civil engineering graduate of Cardiff University,United Kingdom (Uk), said : “The prize has further shown there is reward for hardwork. I appreciate MFM for the gift as it would motivate

others in the university to put in their best.

A Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Public Affairs, Mr Idowu Ajanakua, urged other organisations to emulate the MFM by investing in the youths.

He said: “This novel initiative is encouraging and it would be better next year as more prizes would be incorporated. This is why undergraduates need to roll up their sleeves and be more focused.

MFM is demonstrating its support for the youths by encouraging them with the gifts.

This is an initiative that should be emulated by others because youths tend to be serious when they are assured of good reward” he said.

HE Human Rights Writers’ Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), yesterday urged President Goodluck Jonathan to end fuel scarcity being experienced in parts of the country.

In a statement jointly endorsed by the National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko and the National Director of Media Affairs, Ms. Zainab Yusuf, the group also tasked the Federal Government to withdraw operational licences of members of the the independent petroleum marketers, who are known to be the main suppliers to the illegal operators of fuel black markets.

HURIWA described the failure of the government to revamp existing refineries, or build new ones, or create the enabling environment for willing and capable investors to establish private refineries as a manifestation of the unwillingness of the Federal Government to check the proliferation of economic adversities and poverty related problems, afflicting millions of Nigerian families. The association also charged the Federal Government to take steps to ameliorate these problems without further delay.

HURIWA said: “It is regrettable that barely a week after the presidential election, which returned the incumbent President to office for another four years, the greater majority of Nigerians have been abandoned by government to face two cruel challenges of postelection violence and the ongoing biting fuel scarcity. Are these man-made problems the way the current President wants to reward Nigerians for re-electing him?”

Why Reps must pass Tobacco Bill, by Mamora

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ENATOR Olorunnimbe Mamora yesterday urged the House of Representatives to pass the National Tobacco Control Bill into law before May 29 in the interest of public health.

The Senate recently passed the bill, which Mamora sponsored.

The outgoing senator, representing Lagos East, said the need to protect the people from the harmful effects of tobacco use, should encourage the lower legislative chamber to concur with the the Senate position on the bill, so that President Goodluck Jonathan can assent it before the end of the current administration.

Mamora, in an interview, spoke of the efforts he had made to ensure that the bill scaled all the hurdles before May 29.

He said: “We are seriously working to ensure that the

Environmentalists call for bill’s passage

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HE House Representatives has been urged to pass the National Tobacco Control Bill before the expiration of its tenure to stop avoidable deaths from tobacco products.

The Director, Corporate Accountability Campaigns and Administration of Environmental Rights Action (ERA) , Mr Akinbode Oluwafemi, said the lawmakers should pass the bill to curb tobacco-related deaths.

Oluwafemi, who spoke with reporters in Lagos yesterday, said the failure by the House of Representatives to concur with the bill as passed by the Senate would amount to

By Olukorede Yishau, Assistant Editor (News)

House of Representatives concur with the bill as passed by the Senate. We need to see this through in the life of this National Assembly because tobacco control is an issue of public concern.

“Even if you are saying you have the right to commit sui-

By Wale Adepoju

wasting taxpayers’ money.

He said: “If they don’t pass the bill before the end of their tenure, it means they would have to start the process of the passage from scratch. This is economically wrong.”

He noted that by passing the bill, the Senate demonstrated its concern for the people’s health.

He said: “The bill is a veritable tool that will help Nigeria to fight a deadly addiction, thereby protecting many lives and saving costs in medicare.”

cide by consuming tobacco uncontrolled, what about those who do not want to commit suicide. Part of the duty of any government is to protect those who do not want to commit suicide by making sure you don’t smoke around them and endanger their health. The government has a right to protect non-smokers. People who don’t want to

smoke, but find themselves in the midst of smokers, either by finding themselves in restaurants, cinema, parks and gardens, government has the duty to protect those ones.

“Statistics have confirmed that more young people smoke and there is need to protect them. You discover that tobacco manufacturers have introduced gimmicks into the

system to depict that you become macho if you smoke. Of course, the young men are highly impressionable. They just fall for it. We cannot allow merchants of death to hawk their merchandise. We have a duty to stop them. We have discovered that because of increasing regulation in the Western world, a lot of the tobacco companies are finding it convenient to come to the Third World, where we still have weak institutions and weak regulatory policies. So, they find it convenient to come here. They tell you they are helping your unemployment situation. But, at what cost?

How many people have they put on the job compared to the number of people they have killed or that suffer ill-health as a result of their products?

“Tobacco is the only substance that when used as prescribed, it will hurt your health. Government must help the people by regulating the use of tobacco.”

ACN denies being allocated ministerial slots

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) yesterday denied that it has been allocated five ministerial slots in the Government of National Unity (GNU) being prposed by President Goodluck Jonathan.

In a statement issued in Lagos by its National Public-

ity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party reiterated its earlier stand that it will not be a part of the GNU. ‘’How can the ACN get any ministerial slot when the party leadership has said, categorically, that it is not interested in the coalition government being planned by the

President? On what basis will the cabinet slots be given to the ACN? And is it by force that we participate in President Jonathan’s government?’’ it queried.

Mohammed said the party, will not for any reason, rescind its decision not to participate in the GNU.

‘’As we said before, we are the leading opposition party and a government-in-waiting. Our stand is based on our aim of fostering a strong democratic system, which cannot be achieved in a one-party state that our participation in a unity government will help to achieve.

‘’Also, since light and darkness cannot co-habit, ACN cannot work with the PDP under any circumstance. We will therefore appreciate if those who are day-dreaming about ACN’s involvement in a PDP-led federal government will get a life!’’ the party said.

10

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

NEWS Editor emerges Rep for Ogbaru

Bankole’s father worried over NITEL House H

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HE immediate past editor of The Source magazine, Mr Victor Ogene has been declared winner of the Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Anambra State.

Ogene was declared winner after the rerun of the controversial April 9 election.

The Returning Officer (RO), Peter Nnanwa, declared Ogene, a candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), winner at the weekend.

The declaration broke the deadlock that followed the initial election on April 9, which was pronounced inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) because of the problems that trailed the election in Ogwu Ikpele Ward, the political constituency of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Chukwuka Onyema.

•Ogene

Although the PDP won the rerun in the Ward by 495 votes to APGA’s 396, the final result showed that APGA had a comfortable win having polled 10,153, follwed by PDP with 8,543 votes.

Ogene thanked the people of Ogbaru for the confidence reposed in him and promised not to let them down.

OUSE of Representatives Speaker Dimeji Bankole’s father, Chief Alani Bankole, is worried that he can not take possession, after purchase, of NITEL House on 15, Marina, Lagos, because of “unresolved issues.”

The “issues” are to be resolved among stakeholders - bankers, the liquidators and his company – West African Aluminium Products Plc (WAAP) The elder Bankole, though silent on what the “unresolved outstanding issues” were, however said that WAAP had the opportunity to partake in the bidding in 2007 successfully, but the deal could not be recognised in the company’s book about four years after.

He said: “We participated in the bid and were successful... Unfortunately, we have

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

not been able to take possession due to outstanding issues that are yet to be resolved amongst our bankers, the liquidators and ourselves. Since we were not sure of the status of the transaction, it has not been recognized in our books.”

The businessman spoke at the weekend during WAAP’s 6th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, where he also bemoaned the crippling effects of “multiple taxation and levies” on WAAP. He urged the regulatory authorities to take a cue from China, where compa-

nies enjoy “subsidies” and “lavish tax holidays.”

“There is too much tax in this country”, Bankole noted, “even when you have not started production you would pay tax on your investment.

This is the only country I have seen that when you have spent N100 million on investment and without producing or selling anything, you would be asked to pay tax before production.

“We have been looking for money to pay tax at a time we owed Inland Revenue and we didn’t have the type of money they expected us to pay. So, we had to raise money from our friends, associates, stock markets etc to be able to pay them.”

According to him, the

weight of taxation, coupled with energy problem and the cost of buying diesel, accounted for why his company, with an installed capacity to produce minimum of 200 tonnes of aluminium products per month, could today hardly produce 40 tonnes.

Bankole, who is the Chairman of WAAP, however gave the hint that the company will be approaching the capital market to explore the possibility of raising funds to re - capitalise the seven-yearold firm and move it to profitability.

“We can explore that, it is one of the possibilities; we can go to the stock market if we are qualified. That is the only reason why we are spending money on AGM so that we can convince people to come and invest in the company.”

Igbinedion denies bribing jugde

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ORMER Edo State Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion yesterday denied the report credited to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mrs.Farida Waziri that he had allegedly paid N10 billion to a jugde to thwart his ongoing trial.

In a statement by the Head of Chambers , Rickey Tarfa & Co , Mr. Olusegun Odubela, Igbinedion said the allegation was not only embarrassing, but scandalous.

Odubela said:“The allegation made by the EFCC boss, Mrs. Farida Warizi existed in her imagination.Our client did not or will not take any step to subvert the cause of justice. We challenge the EFCC to produce the so called petition against the jugde.

“It will be in the interest of the media to desist from “madebelief” information emanating from the commission as we have the instruction of our client to clear his name in the court of law, hence a retraction of the story is advised.”

Meawhile, a Federal High Court in Benin, will on May 31, deliver its ruling on the preliminary objection raised by Igbinedion over a Federal Government’s step to try him twice over the same allegations as argued by his lead counsel, Chief Rickey Tarfa (SAN).

Fawehinmi decries re-arrest of ex-bank chiefs

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OHAMMED Fawehinmi has described the re-arrest of the former bank chief executives by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) under the alleged “New Evidence” as a clear failure on the part of the anti-graft body.

In a statement made available to The Nation, he noted: “I am inclined to believe that there is evidence on ground and the EFCC is scouting round and arresting all sorts of people in order to force out a plea bargain as alleged by Mr. Erasmus Akingbola, a former managing director of Intercontinental Bank.”

By Musa Odoshimokhe

The statement stressed that the arrest of some associates of the former bank chiefs was too late to demonstrate the competence of the EFCC boss, saying it was a bid to make headline news.

It noted that the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi and Mrs Waziri have failed to perform their expected duties for which they were appointed.

Instead, they had made some noise and gave lectures on the issue which have not impacted on the economy, the statement said.

Ajimobi raises 30-man transition committee From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

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YO State Governor-elect, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, yesterday inaugurated a 30-man transition committee to mid-wife the transition of power to his administration

by May 29.

The committee is to ascertain the financial status of the state government and take inventory of all movable and non-movable (non-financial) assets of the state, preparatory to the May 29 hand-over.

The committee is headed by a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government (SSG), Dr. Busari Adebisi.

Ajimobi directed members of the committee to take the stock in five major areas of government activities in order to assist the in-coming adminstration in determining existing assets and liabilities, as well as set a target for him.

They are; the financial status of the state, inventory of all movable and non-movable (non-financial) assets, administrative details about structure, cost of operations and status of all on-going projects Other members of the committee include; another former SSG, Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, Dr Abib Olamitoye and Laoye Sanda.

• From left: Commissioner, Accident Investigation Burea (AIB) Sam Oduselu, Managing Director, Federal Airport Authority (FAAN) Mr. Richard Aisuebeogun, Managing Director, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Ibrahim Auyo and Director-General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Dr. Harold Demuren at the inauguration of AIB’s Mobile Satellite PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE and Power House at Air Safety House... at the weekend.

Ibadan indigenes back Alao-Akala on rotation of Obas’ chair

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HE contentious signing into law of a bill stopping the Alaafin of Oyo as the permanent chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs by outgoing Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala last week, has gained the support of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). The CCII described the amendment as a good development.

Many have raised concerns over the manner the bill was hastily initiated, passed through the first, second , and the third reading in the House of Assembly and as-

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

cented into law by the governor in one day.

Both the CCII and AlaoAkala, had been pitted against each other over alleged marginalisation in appointments, and projects.

But, the Council suddenly saw the move by the governor as “ a thing of great benefit to the Ibadan people” that would for the first time in many years, make the royal father in Ibadanland, comprising of 11 Local Governments Areas, the chairman of

the state Council of Obas and Chiefs at least for the next two years.

The body, which comprises over 100 associations of other clubs and unions of all Ibadan sons and daughters (both at home and abroad), was particularly glad that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I, will by the new law, lead the council of Obas as its chairman.

Just last week, the outgoing governor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), signed the bill as amended and passed by the house, making the chair-

manship of the Obas’ council to be rotational among the three first class monarchs; the Olubadan, the Soun and the Alaafin.

The Alaafin, who is the incumbent and indeed the Permanent Chairman of the Council, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, has since kicked, describing the government’s move as illegal and uncalled for.

But the CCII’s newly elected president, Bayo Oyero, said it was a thing of joy for all Ibadan indigenes that the Olubadan will chair the council for the next two years.

Akala’s commissioner alleges threat to life from within

O

YO State Commissioner for Health, Dr Babalola Owolabi, has raised the alarm over an alleged attempt to kill him by some politicians in government.

The commissioner, at the weekend, alleged that such politicians were after him because of his reluctance to be used to illegally siphon state funds.

He claimed to have been attacked by a gang of “four to six hefty armed men” at a popular petrol station in

•Akala: You are unfair to me From Bisi Oladele, Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

Mokola area of Ibadan, the state capital at about 8.30p.m on Friday when he went to refuel his vehicle.

According to him, his assailants attacked him from behind as he disembarked from his car. He said they were armed with dangerous weapons such as knives and cudgels.

Babalola said he struggled

for several minutes with the attackers before he escaped.

The commissioner was said to have been beaten up by some political thugs two days earlier while coming out of the weekly Executive Council meeting at Governor’s Office.

He declined naming those he suspected to be behind the attacks “to avoid jeopardissing police investigations.”

The state Police Commissioner, Mr Adisa Bolanta con-

firmed that Babalola reported an attack on him, but said: “He did not tell me of any assassination threat”.

Governor Adebayo AlaoAkala, who spoke through his media aide, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said it was unfair for the commissioner to have accused somebody within the government of attempting to take his life. He wondered why the embattled commissioner was “craving for publicity while he remains part and parcel of the outgoing administration.”

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Upsets of the 2011 elections The recently conducted elections have come to be an eye-opener. It was an epic battle in which some candidates won by the skin of their teeth. Now, as the curtain draws, opportunity abounds for winners and losers to do self-appraisal ahead of future polls, writes MUSA ODOSHIMOKHE.

T

HE much expectation, the 2011 elections will be remembered for the They came with major and minor upsets, full of surprises they threw up. Many lost for funny reasons while certain things worked in favour of some whom many had considered underdogs.

In Kano State where the former Defence Minister, Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was governor from 1999 to 2003, staging a comeback is by no means an easy task. Having lost the contest in an previous election to Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau of All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), Kwankwaso was said to have plotted his way back to governance following the lapses in the ANPP-led government.

Kwankwanso was said to have defeated Alhaji Sagir Takai of the ANPP because the people were already detached from the policies initiated by the ANPP administration.

This also had its effect on the fortunes of Shekarau who was beaten at home as the presidential flag bearer of the party.

For Alhaji Nnamadi Sambo, the Vice President-elect, his defeat at his Kaduna home in all the elections posed a great challenge.

It brings to memory the loss of former President Olusegun Obasanjo in the same manner at his polling unit. The rejection was further entrenched in the 2011 elections as his daughter (Iyabo) and General Tunji Olurin, his anointed candidate for the governorship of Ogun State, failed to get the people’s support.

Obasanjo’s loss could not have been caused by any other reason than the overwhelming spread that the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) was enjoying, which had caught Ogun in general. The division in the PDP in the state is another factor. Sambo’s misfortune, claimed, cannot be unconnected with his unflinching support for his boss, President Goodluck Jonathan, while the pro-zoning campaign lasted.

The ANPP reclaimed Zamfara State during the just-concluded gubernatorial election. Alhaji Sani Yerima, a former governor of the state had handed the baton of leadership to Governor Mahmud Shinkafi when he was in ANPP. Shinkafi defected to PDP after a rancorous relationship with the erstwhile Sharia protagonist.

The frosty political landscape threw up fresh challenges as Yerima vowed to return to status quo. He detailed Alhaji Abdulazeez Abubakar, a member of the House of Representatives, to wrest power from the incumbent PDP government and actively participated in mobilising the people. In the battle, Abubakar unseated Shinkafi.

In Bornu State, not even the death of Alhaji Modu Gubio, the ANPP candidate who was assassinated in January and he was replaced by Alhaji Kashim Shettima, could help the fortune of other political parties.

The state has been controlled by the ANPP

• Kwankwaso

• Akunyili

• Ojudu

‘It was also feared that her disagreement with the former Central Bank Governor, Prof Charles Soludo did not portray her in good light. And despite the huge warchest put in place by Governor Peter Obi to ensure that she succeeded, it failed to stop Ngige, the ‘oracle,’ who was said to have brought development to the state’ • Ngige

• Alao-Akala

since the return to democracy in 1999. In the election, the governor-elect, Shettima defeated Alhaji Mustapha Shehuri of the CPC with a wide margin.

Though ANPP lost the National Assembly and presidential polls to the PDP and CPC respectively, it did not swing the polls as the ANPP bounced back to retain its control of state apparatus.

Prof Dora Akunyili of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) contested with Dr Chris Ngige of the ACN for the Anambra Central Senatorial District. It was dramatic.

At a point, a rerun was ordered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in some areas.

Ngige won with a very narrow margin. It was feared that her disagreement with the former Central Bank Governor, Prof Charles Soludo, did not portray her in good light.

And despite the huge war-chest put in place by Governor Peter Obi to ensure that

she succeeded, she failed to stop Ngige, the ‘oracle,’ who was said to have brought development to the state.

In Ekiti, former Governor Ayo Fayose of the Labour Party (LP) contested against Babafemi Ojudu of ACN for the Ekiti Central Senatorial District seat.

The chance of Ojudu to beat a more experienced Fayose was in great doubt before the poll. The journalist-turned-politician floored the former chief executive of the state to confirm the ACN’s new-found grip on the state.

In Nasarawa State, where the CPC is now in control, Gov Akwe Doma of the PDP was said to have engendered a regime of misrule by sacking chairmen of the councils and failed to rescind the decision even when a competent court asked him to do so.

When the election came, most of the chairmen were said to have worked for Tanko Al-Makura of the CPC, a former associate

of Doma who parted ways after some irreconcilable differences. Al-Makura won with 324,823 against Doma’s 320,938 and the sacked chairmen popped champagnes.

In Oyo State, Governor Adebayo AlaoAkala, to many, would use the so-called power of incumbency and money to retain his seat. Abiola Ajimobi of the ACN shattered the myth, though not without the anxiety caused by tardy release of the results.

The eventual defeat of Governor Ikedi Ohakim in Imo State by APGA’s candidate, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, did not come as a surprise to most people, especially keen watchers of the governor’s controversial leadership style. He was said to have stepped on toes. Thus, incumbency mattered not to his chance.

From the upsets thrown up by the various results, it is clear that there were various variables that worked for and against the contestants. Indeed, the results will serve as lessons for prospective candidates.

11

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THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

OLITICS PPOLITICS House of Representatives member-elect, Oye Ojo (Ekiti West Constituency 11), spoke with Deputy Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU on the challenge of representing the under-developed and marginalised federal constituency in the National Assembly.

‘Progressives must make a difference in Southwest’

W

HAT is your perception about the role of the legis lator in the National As-

sembly?

Legislators are meant to make laws, do oversight functions and attend to national issues. Most importantly, they should not forget their root, which is their constituency.

What agenda did you set for yourself when you were vying for the Ekiti West seat in the House of Representatives?

Actually, I am representing Federal Constituency 11, comprising Ekiti West, Efon and Ijero local governments. I have been around for the past five years. I have been part of the struggle for the revalidation of the stolen mandate in Ekiti. I realised that my federal constituency lacked good representation and development, and the drive. I made up my mind that there must be a change. In Ekiti West, Aramoko is the capital. I come from Erinjiyan.

Ikogosi Warm Spring is there. Ipole Water Falls is there. These are good tourism potentials which are not being tapped. Ikogosi is popular throughout the world. If you get to Ikogosi now, you will cry. There is no zoo their again. In Ipole, water than should be used for artificial dam is being wasted. There is kaolin in Ijero. It is not being properly tapped.

The landscape of my constituency is lovely and it has tourism potentials.

Infrastructure is dilapidated; no good road network, no electricity, no water. There is youth unemployment. I looked at these challenges and realised that we needed better represen-

tation.

Where are coming from? Which pedigree has prepared you for the role you are about to play?

I am coming from the Asiwaju Tinubu School of Thought. From childhood, I have always been interested in governance and development. From Ahmadu Bello University where I obtained a Diploma in Journalism, I moved to Greenish, London, where I bagged B.A Politics. I obtained a Masters Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from the University of Ibadan. Now, I am doing my PhD at the same university. In 1996, during my university days, I was a top student activist. In U.K, I organised the association of Nigerian students, and was the President. I was the President of my departmental association in 2008/9 in U.I. I belong to Asiwaju School of Thought. In Lagos, you could see development, change and progress.

After staying abroad for a long time, you also like to come back home to join the vanguard of progress. Osun is making progress. Dr Fayemi is also changing the face of Ekiti State.

They need younger people that would continue this stride. Rome was not built in a day. Awolowo started it long time ago. Military came and collapsed what he did.

Awoism stands for good life, good health, good education, good road.

We are going back to these virtues under leadership of Asiwaju. ACN governors will make so much difference because of what they stand

• Ojo

for. It is our region first, which includes Edo and Delta States. The voting pattern showed that the people were tired and wanted change. They rejected PDP and voted for the right caliber of people. Proper legislation has to be made. Governance should not be left in the hand of mediocre.

What is the assurance that you are not fascinated by the jumbo pay in the National Assembly?

Some of us are against the so-called jumbo pay. Out of 365 days, the House is on recess or vacation for greater part of the time. People want them to be more engaged. That is why we need serious people there. Nigerians

cannot do what they are doing. That is why they are complaining. If, by what they say, they take N29.3 million in three months and no constituency project is done, they will complain. The salary and allowances are massive. Majority of them are doing nothing with it. Our out-going representative, Kehinde Odebunmi, has not done anything in the last four years. What has he done with the constituency allowance? The salary of a legislator is N700,000 0r N800,000. The jumbo pay they are saying is the constituency allowance. It is meant for the development of the constituency.

I am not fascinated by the jumbo pay.

Before I was elected, I have been doing some things for my constituency.

What impact can you make in the House as a member of the minority caucus?

The minority of yesterday is different from the minority of today. ACN is having over 50 legislators. They will stand for what the people want.

Public opinion speaks volume. The 360 legislators cannot be greater than the 150 million people. We are talking about what the people want.

When they said that they needed an Acting President, they got it. Politicians now know that they will return to the people after four years for the renewal of their mandate. They cannot joke with the people.

How were you able to defeat your PDP opponent?

For seven and half years, PDP was in government and there is nothing to show for it. The people are not fools. Our legislator could not sink

one borehole. The only street light in my area was done by the Nigeria Energy Commission. Our legislator has nothing to show for four years.

That is why people said that they wanted a change. I had the highest number of votes in his home town.

The people of Aramoko were championing my cause. They said they regretted voting for him four years ago.

The same thing applied generally in Ekiti. They complained that they could not get dividends of democracy. By the grace of God, I will not disappoint our people.

What are the lessons which you think the progressives should learn from their prolonged battle for power shift to their bloc?

First of all, we have to thank Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. He was the last man standing for seven and half years. We know his antecedent as a pro-democracy crusader. Many people are richer than Tinubu, but they don’t believe in the cause. He has been using his Mercedes Benz, G Wagon for eight years. He has not changed it. He could have used his money for other things.

There are other progressives who refused to carry a major burden. The challenge for the progressives is that we have to proof our worth. Seven and half years ago, power slipped from our hands. Now, it is time to work. It is time for our people to feel the impact of change in Ekiti, Osun, and in Ogun and Oyo states, as they are feeling it in Lagos. The progressive family now should come together.

Commissioner: Problem with Mimiko’s critics A chieftain of the Labour Party (LP) and Commissioner for Information in Ondo State, Ranti Akerele, spoke with DAMISI OJO on governance in the state and the fortune of the party in the recent general elections among other salient issues. Besides, he replied rights activist Dr Tunji Abayomi who critised the government’s programmes. Excerpts:

T

HERE was a remark in the week by a chieftain of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State, Dr Tunji Abayomi that the present administration lacks control of public resources, stressing that governor Olusegun Mimiko is a financial dictator…

Dr. Tunji Abayomi has failed to see the paradigm shift in governance in Ondo State and he has a total disconnect from the realities on ground in the state. Dr. Abayomi will like to play up the outcome of the 2011 elections that ushered in the ACN into all Government Houses in the Southwest, except Ondo State that voted solidly for the Labour Party.

What his likes fail to realise is that, his reductionist approach to the uniqueness of the Ondo State result will continue to expose his lack of knowledge of a typical Ondo State man. He does not know the Ondo state man does not suffer fools; you cannot lead the people by the nose.

The government of Ondo State is so prudently run that there are no rooms for budget deficit as there is absolute fiscal discipline. Every procurement is subjected to the Pricing and Project Monitoring Unit (PPMU), which scrutinizes and compares market prices and contracts awarded after advertisements in national dailies through competitive bidding by the Executive Council on the recommendations of the State’s Tenders Board. I serve under this man and he treats my files. I know Dr. Mimiko is prudent and meticulous to a fault when it comes to fiscal matters. So, definitely he is no dictator of any kind.

The ruling party had overwhelming success in the last general elections. What was the magic?

The fact that Labour Party continues to be the overwhelming choice of the Ondo State people is because PDP ruled them for four wasted years and another two illegal years and they neither saw changes in their circumstances nor improvement in their lot. They voted out the PDP and after the two illegal years of occupation by Dr. Olusegun Agagu, the people’s mandate was restored and today, Dr Olusegun Mimiko has in just two years, given to Ondo State arguably the most progressive government in Nigeria today. The general verdict now is that Olusegun Mimiko’s two years are more productive than Agagu’s six years.

What are some achievements of the present administration in the past two years?

They are numerous. Look at the Mother and Child Hospital, the first of four others that are in various

stages of completion in the three senatorial zones. Today, they are giving people first-class medical services free of charge, clusive of cesarean and other surgeries.

The Mother and Child hospital, Oke Aro, Akure boasts 100-bed facilities dedicated to the care of pregnant women and children of less than five years of age. It also offers tertiary health services free of charge. The vision is to reduce maternal and child mortality by 50 and 30 per cent respectively by the year 2013. The hospital has state-of-the-art training mannequins including electronic force monitoring births. Airway management simulators for life like practical demonstrations and applications are there.

The Akure M&CH is collaborating with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine on the management of postpartum hemorrhage using tranexamic acid. As at May 2, 2011, about 15 months of operations,10,315 pregnant women and 14,216 children (including 2,754 as pediatric inpatients) have been registered and treated. About 20 per cent among them are non-residents of Ondo State. In addition 5,499 safe deliveries have been conducted as the MCHA is now the busiest in Ondo state and one of the busiest in Nigeria.

Moshe Ram, the Ambassador of Israel described it as “the most impressive hospital I have visited in Nigeria”. Cheryl Igiri, a diplomat with the US Embassy, wrote in its visitors’ register: “Professionals are dedicated to service”. Prof O. Akinkugbe, Emeritus Prof. of Medicine said: “This is revolutionary, well-thought-out and

a glowing testimony to team work.”

Dr Ogunbayo of Nigeria’s Governors Forum called the Mother and Child Hospital”highly functional and impressive hospital, clearly well thought out.” Another medical doctor who is a consultant OB/GYN Maryland, USA, said: “Great place, great nurses” Abayomi has never visited before condemning; that will prove to you that critics of the Mimiko administration like him are rabble rousers, who want to flaunt their so called human rights activism Next year is another governorship election in the state. Do you believe Mimiko will carry the day?

As an Ondo State man who have lived in Ondo State since 1984, working as a teacher, civil servant, broadcast journalist, now politician, we have not had a more committed governor than Dr Olusegun Mimiko. I say without equivocation that what he is doing today in Ondo State is no magic, Dr Mimiko, today, is about the most experienced politician in active service in government in the Southwest.

Starting with his first appointment as Commissioner for Health in 1992, he followed up with the same portfolio in 1999 when he was appointed Secretary to the State Government.

In 2003, he was Minister for Housing and Urban development. In 2005, he resigned voluntarily from Obasanjo’s cabinet to run for governorship election against Agagu of the ruling PDP to eventually become Governor. He hit the ground running, leading by example. In two years, he has been able to connect with grassroots, the

‘For us in Ondo State, our brother states in the Southwest are not our rivals and competitors, but co-progressives who will network with us to ensure that we return the good old days of Obafemi Awolowo to our much-abused land by our common foe, the conservatives lately represented by the PDP. I must say here we are very comfortable with our ACN brothers around us’

•Akerele

ordinary man on the streets, artisans, the professionals, the students and all through a series of people-oriented programs including the very successful urban renewal programme with it’s components of auto mart, car parks, modern markets, new roads, reclamation of flooded communities through effective channelization. Education renewal initiatives are there for all to see. We have been providing basic infrastructure. These are the reasons the Labour Party is winning elections. Given the realities on ground, he is the most suitable Ondo State.

Dr. Mimiko is winning elections because some of those who are opposing him are doing so because they couldn’t perform better, or because they have done anything in the area of public management that makes them electable. For us in Ondo State, our brother states in the Southwest are not our rivals and competitors, but co-progressives who will network with us to ensure that we return the good old days of Obafemi Awolowo to our much-abused land by our common foe, the conservatives lately represented by the PDP. I must say here we are very comfortable with our ACN brothers around us.

14

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

15

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Interbank rates fall on AMCON inflow

N

IGERIAN interbank lending rates fell to an average of 8.41 percent from 10.41 per cent last week after liquidity from repurchased Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) bonds raised cash levels in the system, traders has said.

Nigeria’s state-owned bad bank AMCON raised N1.67 billion in bonds in March to be exchanged for banks’non-performing loans, part of reforms in the wake of $4 billion bailout of nine lenders by the central bank in 2009.

“A number of banks repurchased their AMCON bond holdings to get some cash which helped increase liquidity in the system and forced down cost of borrowing in the interbank market,” one treasurer said.

The secured open Buy Back (OBB) dropped to eight per cent from 9.50 per cent last week, 50 basis points above the central bank’s 7.50 per cent benchmark rate and 2.5 percentage points higher than the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate.

Overnight placement fell to 8.50 per cent from 10.75 percent, while call money dropped to 8.75 per cent from 11 per cent.

Dealers said the market was up at N161 billion last Friday boosted by liquidity from the AMCON bond proceeds.

Traders said rates are expected to remain stable in the week ahead in spite of anticipated outflows to foreign exchange and treasury bill purchases.

The indicative rates for the Nigeria Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) lowered in tandem with the short-term market, with seven-day funds dropping to 9.20 per cent from 11.29 percent last week.

I like that combination between creativity and the creative process and the organisation needed to make a business like this successful worldwide.

- Bernard Arnault

New electricity tariff coming next month T

HE Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) would next month announce the muchawaited review of electricity tariff that will be a major factor for investors to stake their funds in the industry.

According to the commission’s Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, who disclosed this in Abuja at the weekend, this will be arrived at after all the parameters associated with generation, transmission and distribution of the commodity, along with a reasonable margin, have been worked out.

He said without a cost-reflective tariff, there would be no investor willing to put his money in the sector.

Besides, a Commissioner in the agency, Ekpo Eyo, noted that a cost-reflective tariff is necessary, because $10 billion (about N1.4 trillion) would be required annually just to sustain the current level of between 3,500 mega watts and

•’TCN is thwarting NERC’s effort’ From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

3,800 mega watts.

But Amadi lamented that while desperate efforts are on to try to get the cost-reflective tariff, the Managing Director of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) had not been forthcoming with details required from his end to compute the accurate cost of making electricity available to consumers.

The NERC boss said he had written several letters to the TCN, the latest of which was sent last Friday, to reveal how much it would take them to transmit electricity efficiently, but had not received any response. He appealed to the organisation to co-operate to make the job of NERC in finding the right price for electricity less stressful.

Even if the country generates 10,000MW of electricity today, said Amadi, much of it would lie idle as there is not enough transmission capacity to evacuate it due to inefficient lines.

He added that 44 per cent of revenue was lost in the industry through the lines, fraud, poor metering, among others.

The NERC chief also stated that the new companies seeking to acquire the six electricity generation companies and 11 distribution companies would have to disclose their full costs of providing power to enable the regulatory body to come up with a new tariff that would make for abundance of electric power.

Noting that new pre-paid meters could not be provided for everybody in the next one year even if the fund was available, he said N2.99 billion had been given to the 11 distribu-

tion companies to provide meters.

He said the incoming investors would take care of meters when they come on stream.

Although the appropriate tariff is not yet known, former Director-General of Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE) and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, said last month that for the country to attract investors into the power sector, electricity tariffs need to go up by between 300 and 400 per cent NERC, however, appears to be in a dilemma about public reaction to the anticipated increase in tariff because, according to Eyo, it was expected that by now, the amount of electricity generated would be thrice as much as it is now. The agency acknowledges that should there be sufficient or appreciable increase in supply, a raise in tariff would not be seriously resisted by Nigerians.

MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N7.8 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion

RATES Inflation -12.8% Treasury Bills -2.64% Normal lending -24% Prime lending -18% Savings rate -3% 91-day NTB -6.99% Time Deposit - 6% MPR -7.50% Foreign Reserve -$33.5 bn FOREX CFA 0.281 • 222.92 £ 252.9 $ 152.76 ¥ 1.5652 SDR 245.85 RIYAL 39.3

R

OYAL Dutch Shell, France’s Total and Eni sold a 45 percent stake in a Nigerian oil block to a Polish-Nigerian consortium, Kulczyk Oil, a partner in the consortium, has said.

The price paid by the consortium consisting of Kulczyk Oil and Nigeria’s Nest Oil, Aries and VP Global, was not disclosed, but a source last Thursday told Reuters the deal was worth $600 million.

Kulczyk Oil said in a statement it has acquired nine per cent of the OML 42 block, a stake which could produce 11.5 million to 46.4 million barrels of oil equivalent.

“Kulczyk Oil believes these estimates are cautious because they do not take into account significant volumes of gas,” the statement said.

The transaction is subject to a number of approvals, including permission from Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), which owns the remaining 55 per cent of the block.

Starcomms invests N1.3b on network expansion

By Adline Atili

S

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$125.2/barrel Cocoa - $2,856/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢78.07.pound Gold -$1,161/troy ounce Rubber - ¢146.37/pound

Shell, Total sell stake in Nigerian oil field

•From left: Unity Bank Group Managing Director, Falalu Bello, receiving the Conference of the Northern States Chambers of Commerce (CONSCCIMA) Award for Excellence in Leadership and Entrepreneurship in Banking from former Attorney-General of the Federation Chief Bayo Ojo (SAN) at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Abuja.

T

Rewane hinges Jonathan’s survival on economic performance

HE political survival and legacy of President Goodluck Jonathan will largely depend on how far he is able to lift the economy and reposition key economic indicators northwards, Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Limited, Bismark Rewane, said.

The expert, who disclosed this during the Lagos Business School (LBS) Executive Breakfast, said the President has to reverse the huge decline in most indicators as during the April elections.

For instance, forex demand decreased by 23 per cent from $3.6 billion in March to

By Collins Nweze

$2.7 billion in April, the statutory revenue declined

by N124 million to N358 billion against that of February, while external reserves have increased marginally from $33.2 billion to $33.6 billion; Achieving reversal of these statistics requires that the President takes immediate steps to grow the economy by carrying the North along. He explained that high income inequality is a recipe for political instability and needs to

be addressed especially as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita in the South is twice that of the North.

The expert said the alignment of the political and economic map is needed to bring stability even as the ratio of the rich to the poor is 15 to one. “The top 20 per cent in Nigeria get 15 times more of the income than the bottom 20 per cent. The far North has an income per capita of $718 per annum compared to $2,010 in the South/South,” he said.

Northern Nigerian women rank lowest in literacy levels in the world, according to UNESCO report in March 2011.

Jonathan, whom he said ran on the platform of continuity, needs a team to increase national productivity and manage resources efficiently.

For Nigeria, oil at $124 per barrel and production at 2.3 million barrel per day guarantees export earnings of $98.8 billion and trade balance of $50.8 billion.

Nigeria’s credit rating could improve if fiscal discipline is observed, Rewane said.

TARCOMMS, a Code Division Multiple Ac cess Telco has spent $9 million (N1.35billion) to improve capacity and strengthen its network in 10 Nigerian cities.

The cities are: the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja; Oron, Akwa-Ibom State; Jaji, Kaduna State; Suleja, Niger State; Ikot-Ekpene and Eket, both in Akwa-Ibom State; Maiduguri, Borno State; Umuahia, Abia State; Tinapa, Cross River State and Agbor in Delta State.

Addressing the media at the weekend, Chief Operating Officer of the company, Logan Pather, said the investment which covered equipment and logistics, among others, will see Starcomms rolling out services to other parts of the country where the company previously had no coverage and also improving capacity in congested sites in areas where it currently has coverage.

He added that from today ( May 9) and for the next three weeks, commercial launches, commercial launch of Starcomms would kick-off in all 10 cities.

He said: “Starcomms has continued to make significant investments in the telecommunications industry, despite the difficulties that characterise the business climate in Nigeria. ”

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THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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

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

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

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

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2.

3.

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Arik Aero Arik Aero

LAGOS – WARRI 08.15 11.50 11.55 14.55

09.15 12.50 12.55 15.55

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

08.50 09.45 09.40 14.00 15.45 19.55

LAGOS – OWERRI 07.20 14.00 16.30

08.30 15.10 17.40

LAGOS – UYO 10.35

11.35

LAGOS – MAIDUGURI 11.15 13.15 15.50 18.00

LAGOS – ILORIN 1. Overland 07.15 2. Arik (M/T/TH/F) 17.30

predicated on completion of the ongoing projects as well as other commitments in the last budget.

He noted that the 2011 budget contains a few sensitive and complementary new projects such as procurement of furniture for some newly completed classrooms, libraries and laboratories in some FCT schools.

The Minister said the FCT Administration is also embedded in the budget proposal, the procurement of relief materials, emergency equipment as well as provision of infrastructural facilities in the resettled towns.

Mohammed expressed the total commitment of the FCT Administration to complete on-going projects in the Territory and that N106,548,199,450 being 92 per cent of capital expenditure of the 2011 statutory budget is dedicated to the on-going projects while the balance of N9,597,616,680 being the eight per cent is proposed for new projects.

The Minister reiterated that key components of the 2011 capital projects in the statutory budget include transportation with N10,073,940 out of which N8,128,940,430 being 80 per cent is earmarked for on-going projects.

He stated that the education subsector has N9,039,539,100; health has N2,649,009,010; provision of infrastructure in the existing districts, expansion and rehabilitation of Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Way (Airport Road) and Murtala Muhammad Way (Kubwa Road) have N51,272,378,460,00; while Resettlement & Compensation has N3,633,217,210.

Mohammed added that Satellite Towns Infrastructure has N10,598,523,120; Agriculture has N3,177,503,290; water supply has N1,601,000,000 with N3,419,156,000 for the Abuja Environmental protection Board; Public Building has N1,010,000,000; while Administration and Security has N2,558,833,910; and Outstanding Liabilities has N3,000,000 earmarked.

09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

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

1. IRS 2. Arik

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

12.15 12.45

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1. Dana

T

HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has proposed to spend N195. 106 billion in the 2011 fiscal year to provide basic infrastructure and services in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The FCT Minister, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, disclosed this at the FCT Statutory budget defence at the House of Representatives Committee Room, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

The Minister said N116,145,736,130 has been earmarked for capital expenditure; N40, 709,512,050.00 for personnel cost and N38,250,417,140.00 for overhead.

Senator Mohammed revealed that the Administration intends to mop up N195,198,905,000 as revenue in the fiscal year to finance the years appropriation.

The Minister remarked that the FCT Administration has made provision for surplus amounting to N93,239,680.

Senator Mohammed further disclosed that the budget is mainly

08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20

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

1. Arik 2. Arik 3. Arik

‘FCTA needs N195b to provide infrastructure in Abuja’

08.00 18.00

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

Strong growth makes one in three Africans ‘middle class’

R

OBUST economic growth in Af rica over the last decade has swelled the size of its middle class to a third of the continent’s billion-strong population, according to a report released last Friday.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) study said 313 million Africans could now be classified as middle class, compared with 151 million in 1990 and 196 million in 2000.

The figures are further evidence of the growing consumer clout of the poorest continent, although the AfDB did qualify its findings by saying that 60 percent of the middle class “were barely out of the poor category”.

“Sales of refrigerators, television sets, mobile phones, motors and automobiles have surged in virtually every country in recent years,” the report said.

As an example, it cited an 81 per cent increase since 2006 in the possession of cars and motorcycles in Ghana, whose economy may expand as much as 12 per cent this year due to the start of commercial oil production in December.

South Africa, far and away the continent’s biggest economy, ranked top in terms of vehicle ownership, with 300 vehicles per 1,000 people in 2007, more than twice as many as five years earlier.

Typically, middle class Africans would also own their own houses, opt for private rather than state medical care and spend more on food and schooling for their children, the report said.

The north African states of Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt and Algeria fared best in the overall assessment, with more than 75 per cent of their populations ranked as middle class.

24,000 youths for industrial training in Oyo From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

A

•From left: MD, ICAP, South Africa, Bob Jone-Davies; President, Financial Markets Dealers Association (FMDA), Akinsowon Dawodu and MD, Central Securities Cleaning System Limited (CSCS), Peter Adebayo, at signing ceremony of the Electronic Trading Platform midwifed by ICAP and FMDA in Lagos.

Workers urge Fed Govt to create more jobs, enhance job security

W

ORKERS in the public and pri vate sectors yesterday in Lagos asked the Federal Government to create more jobs and provide a conducive atmosphere that would enhance job security and workers’ welfare.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on their expectations from the incoming administration, the organised labour expressed the need for workers to feel the socio-economic impact of government policies in the next four years.

Mr Babatunde Adeleke, Lagos State Chairman of the Senior Staff Associa-

tion of Communications, Transport and Corporation (SSACTAC), said that government policies should strive to create jobs that would provide food and qualitative education to the citizens. ``We appeal to the government to pursue a job-driven policy, as well as ensure decent work environment that will reward people who have contributed to the country’s economic growth,’’ he said.

M r Sunday Okedara, the Vice-Chair-

man of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Lagos State, stressed that it was pertinent for the government to create flexible employment policies that would reduce the rising incidence of casual workers.

He noted that the few citizens who were employed were denied their inalienable right to engage in union activities and collective bargaining, in the face of intimidation, harassment and threat by the employers. ``The federal and state governments must deliver true economic growth and development that will benefit the masses,’’ Okedara said.

ICAO audit: FAAN completes Abuja perimeter fence

T

HE Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has com pleted the perimeter fencing of the Nnamdi Azikwe Airport, Abuja, the Minister of Aviation, Mrs Fidelia Njeze, has disclosed.

This is in line with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirement. ICAO is billed to carry out a safety and technical audit of Nigerian aviation industry, including the state of its airports this month.

The minister disclosed this while speaking at the presentation of a book entitled, Evolution of Civil Aviation in Nigeria 1925-2010, written by Dr Steve Mahonwu last weekend in Lagos.

She added that with the completion

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

of the Abuja airport perimeter fencing, encroachment into the airport by unwanted persons is now a thing of the past, adding that it is part of the government’s effort to ensure that the airport is secured. On the N300 billion bailout given to the airlines by the Federal Government, which is in the custody of Bank of Industry, Njeze said the government did that to assist airlines in their business, as many operators were grappling with insufficient funds to salvage their business.

The minister said the bailout is a soft loan, with seven per cent interest rate and with 15 years repayment, adding

that the bailout is not free fund.

She said airlines must package themselves very well for them to access the loan, adding that since it is a revolving loan, airlines will be given another soft loan only when they have paid for the ones they have accessed.

The intention of the Federal Government, she said, is to ensure that by 2020, more than half of the country’s population would use air transport, adding that the government is making effort to bring down airfare.

She further noted that the operational cost of doing airline business in the country is the highest in the world and that the high cost of aviation fuel is not helping the airline business.

BOUT 24,000 youths in Oyo State would start a three-day training on converting wastes to wealth.

The programme, which is joint undertaken by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), will see beneficiaries gain skills in producing gum, adhesive and glue from wastes, such as maize cobs, the Managing Director of NATFES Consulting which is handling the project, Mr Festus Alade, disclosed this in Ibadan at the weekend.

Alade explained that the project is targeted at reducing poverty in the state as well as lay a good foundation for industrialisation of the state. He added that by converting wastes to wealth, youths in the state would be helped to start creating wealth for themselves and stop chasing white-collar jobs that are in short supply.

The consultant also pointed that putting such wastes to good use would help clear the cities and towns of dirts.

The new project will be an addition to an ongoing training where about 1,000 people are being taught how to make ceramics and fibre from the same maize hub and waste products from banana and plaintain. The training, which commenced on Wednesday, according to Alade, was undertaken by the Ministry of Establishment and Poverty Alleviation.

The new training would be handled by resource persons from the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), Lagos.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9 , 2011

17

ISSUES

•Customers standing in front of a bank

The policy was long in coming. But when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) announced that it would start implementing the ceiling on cash lodgements and withdrawals from June next year, it was trailed by a lot of noise. The din is yet to die down. Will CBN be able to pull it through? Experts, operators and customers proffer their opinions in this report by COLLINS NWEZE and AKINOLA AJIBADE

Discordant tunes over CBN’s proposal B

ANKING seems to be one sector of the economy where there is no dull moment. The tempo in the sector was further raised when Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, pegged the daily cumulative withdrawals and lodgments at N150, 000 and N1

million for individuals and corporate organisation.

According to CBN, the measure is to enhance the efficiency of the Nigerian payment system, reduce cost of cash management and check money laundering. It is also meant to pull the economy from being cash-based, thereby reducing the

amount of money in circulation.

Demerits

Many, however, believe that the policy, would compel people to keep money in the house - a development that would increase the volume of money outside the banking system and reduce those in bank vaults.

This will have ripple effects on banks loanable funds and credit to the economy.

Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Financial Market Dealers Association (FMDA), Mr •Story on page 18

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

18

ISSUES

Discordant tunes over CBN’s proposal •Continued from page 17

Wale Abe, said the policy would affect the informal sector, where physical cash is required to transact businesses daily. For instance, Nigeria has been a major destination for many business owners. Many are coming to Nigeria to buy goods. Also, people are moving from one part of the country to another to buy goods. Therefore, limiting daily withdrawal to certain amount would definitely affect their business. Indirectly, the policy would negatively affect that sector of the economy.

President, Finance Houses Association of Nigeria (FHAN), Mr Eddie Osaronkhoe, said limiting cash withdrawal to certain amount is a good idea, capable of stimulating the growth of the economy. What I believe CBN is trying to do is to move from a cash-based to a paperless economy, as it is being done in developed countries.

A motor parts dealer at Ladipo market, Lagos, Ben Okafor, said for the policy to be realistic, the CBN should address the challenges customers go through in using epayment products, which according to him, had led to the loss of billions of naira to fraudsters.

He said due to the high level of illiteracy in the country, the policy may have difficulties and reduce the confidence people have in the banking system. He said: “There are cash-based transactions that people don’t like carrying out with cash.

For those people, there must be an alternative,” he said.

According to Kingsley Ibe, a textile dealer in Balogum market, the policy will ultimately defeat the essence of depositing funds in the banks. He said that this would encourage traders to revert to the old system of keeping money in safes and under their pillows.

Another trader, Obinna Odia said the limit is too meager and will not promote commerce. .

The Managing Director, Dambis Bureau De Change Limited, Mr Adeboye Adenuga, said the policy would discourage people from taking money to the banks. “When you looked at the small scale industries, some of them made more than N1million profit per day, depending on the kind of business they are running. The fast food outlets like Mr Biggs, Tantalizer have more than one N1million in sales per day. So, do you think they would go to the bank to save the money, when a policy has already denied them the opportunity of withdrawing N1million.? Before I moved to banks, I was working in a construction company where we pay labourers daily. Usually, we pay such labourers more than N1million per day. Where do you think such firms would get money to pay their unskilled workers? So, CBN is indirectly telling people to keep money in their house. The implication is that banks would not have enough money with them. I strongly believe that the policy would not work. Already, people have been condemning it.”

James Abbey, a customer of one of the old generation banks said that the policy will create problems for customers dealing with large sums of money.

In December 2009, the CBN also set a maximum limit on all cheque payments at N10 million with effect from January 1, 2010. Politicians however, kicked against it because it did not allow them move huge cash around for their campaign and had since resorted to using dollar, which is lighter to carry around. But the CBN said part of its objective was to enhance the efficiency of the Nigerian payment system and serve as a risk reduction measure in the clearing and settlement arrangement in line with international best practices.

The implication is that any payment exceeding N10 million is required under the new arrangement, to be made through

•Mallam Sanusi

•CEO Iris Consulting, Richard Obire

•Minister of Finance, Olusegun Aganga

available e-payment options.

directive to some extent, is aimed to checking the rate of inflation.

You would realise that CBN has been making frantic efforts to provide single-digit inflation. So, if the policy is effectively implemented, what that means is that the frequency of moving money around would be reduced.

Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), Bismark Rewane, noted that the objective of the policy was good but cautioned that if rushed, it could be counterproductive. For him, more time is needed to get the policy fully running.

Managing Director, SPNS Consulting, Debo Adebayo, said the policy was healthy for the nation’s development, adding that it showed that the country was gradually moving to the next level. According to him, the policy would help businessmen and other policy makers generate accurate data for decision-making in the country. He faulted the insinuation that the policy would discourage savings culture. But he regretted that if not properly implemented, the policy will discourage savings culture.

“We have customers whose transactions run into millions and sometimes billions of naira. We have taken pains to explain to these set of people that there is no cause for alarm; rather, the new policy will reduce regulators’ suspicion that trail high volume transactions,” said a banker, who pleaded not to be named.

Corporate Governance expert, Sola Solanke, said that the policy serves as a risk reduction measure in the clearing and settlement in line with international best practices. He, therefore, urged banks to continue to advise their customers regarding the new rule. The policy according to him, is also an opportunity to ensure that transactions emanating from the country are legitimate and traceable. “It will reduce cash movement and drastically lessen the operation of bullion vans in the country,” he said.

He said that the policy is good for the financial system and is an indication that Nigeria is gradually migrating to a cashless society. “It will encourage paperless transactions and bring credibility to transactions emanating from the country. ‘I am optimistic that the e-payment infrastructure we have can handle it,” he said.

Bature Dankawu, an industrialist based in Lagos, said people naturally do not easily accept a new policy, especially when it involves money. He said that many countries have keyed into global e-payment system and that one hardly see people moving

around with large sums in cash. Dankawu said that giving out an instruction to a bank is safer than cheques and those customers should embrace the new policy. He said that there is so much identity theft involving cheque transactions that a wise entrepreneur should be weary of it. For him, it is more appropriate to draw attention to the loopholes in the system instead of criticising it.

Merits

It automatically means that the wellknown practice of carrying cash in big sacks especially the popular Ghana-Must-Go to pay for goods and services will cease. Supporters of the policy insist that if things must change for better, it must be through regulation and enforcement as the apex bank has proposed.

This is because overtime, the CBN had tried to discourage large transactions in cash to no avail, mainly because of the huge costs and risks associated with it, and also because it encourages corruption.

Use of cash for transactions has created huge problems. For instance, a bank customer can make a cash withdrawal of N1 million to pay for goods and services. Then, the beneficiary will go ahead to deposit such funds in the same bank. The bank would have to spend a lot of time sorting out the cash, and counting. This could have been done by issuing a commensurate cheque to take care of the transactions. The new policy will minimise wastage in the banking sector.

Managing Director, Iris Consulting, Richard Obire, said the policy the is also going to set agenda for technology development but also throw up opportunities for banks to begin the use of Escrow Accounts for the customers, where a bank stands between two customers to prevent default on payment plans. When this happens, the banks will be warehousing customers’ funds meant for payment of goods and services. The bank then pays for such goods and services, when all set conditions are met.

Abe said the proposed policy would help to develop other payment instruments, other than cash. According him, because of the penalty attached to the carrying of cash; people would be persuaded to use other payment instruments. He said that to make this policy effective, the law on the use of dud cheques must be strengthened. “Those who are fond of issuing dud cheques should be tried. It is going to be a tough one, but I know that with time, people would be used to it. I strongly feel it is a step in the right direction,” he added.

Abe said the CBN issued the directives in order to discourage cash withdrawal from banks. He said huge withdrawals can be made daily through the use of credit card, debit card, bank transfer, among other mode of payment. This, in a way, has limited inflow of funds into the country. I think the

It automatically means that the well-known practice of carrying cash in big sacks especially the popular Ghana-Must-Go to pay for goods and services will cease. Supporters of the policy insist that if things must change for better, it must be through regulation and enforcement as the apex bank has proposed.

CBN’s Perspective The CBN Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Sarah Alade, said the apex bank is bent on implementing the policy and have given a long timeline when all the necessary infrastructure will be available to assist the process. “We will ensure that the right infrastructure are put in place to ensure a successful takeoff of this policy come June 2012,” she said

Funds transfer Expectedly, banks started educating their customers on the new policy, which will definitely have several implications on their businesses. Banks sent letters to all their customers, informing them of the new policy and how it works. They explained that one of the e-payment options available to any customer exceeding N10 million stipulated limit is real time gross settlement (RTGS).

This is an automated online payment system, which allows the transfer of funds from one bank account to another same day.

The other e-payment option is the Nigerian Inter-bank Settlement System Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT), which is a non-cash credit transfer service that enables a bank’s customers to transfer funds to beneficiaries in other banks. Depending on a bank’s policy, all transfers processed before 1.00 p.m. on week days are treated on the same day. Requests received after the cut off time of 1.00p.m. are processed on the next working day.

On either of these e-payment platforms, the customer needs to provide beneficiary name, beneficiary bank, beneficiary account number, beneficiary bank sort code, transaction amount in Naira, sender’s name, paying/sending branch sort code and purpose of payment. “We assure you of our commitment towards ensuring that you enjoy the benefits and convenience of our e-Payment services, and pledge to continuously provide excellent customer service at all times,” a statement from one of the banks had said.

Through this directive, CBN, according to analysts, has demonstrated its resolves to curb the excesses of people who engage in money laundering among other corrupt practices. CBN had come up with Know Your Customer (KYC) directives to identify customers, and to know who owns what in the banks. With the pegging of cash withdrawals, CBN would effectively reduce fraudulent practices. Also, we should not forget the fact that Nigeria has mapped out a blue print for Vision 2020.

To become one of the best economies by the 2020, is a not an easy task. It shows that Nigeria is planning to join the league of industrial countries where the financial system is being run electronically. The policy, analysts say, if well implemented would save costs for both banks and the CBN and have positive effects on the economy by pooling money from the informal to the formal sector.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

19

EDITORIAL/OPINION EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

COMMENT

The Quiet at Ground Zero

Easy does it!

•CBN’s deadline for N150,000 withdrawals/deposits is unrealistic

O

N the surface, the measures rolled out by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to stem the naira deluge in the economy comes across as both ambitious and revolutionary: a maximum daily cash withdrawal/deposit limits of N150,000 and N1 million for the individual and corporate bank customer, respectively; a mandatory requirement that third party cheques in excess of N150,000 go through the clearing house without the option of encashment across the counter; plus of course penalties of N100 and N200 per thousand, depending on whether it is an individual or a corporate firm, for breaches.

The measures – which will become effective June 2012, according to the CBN, was borne of the need to stem the deluge of cash in daily transactions, cut down on the rising cost of cash management to the banking industry, address security challenges posed by use of cash in transac-

‘What the CBN needs to do is to continually strive to deepen the use of non-cash payment instruments, even as it seeks to rekindle trust in them. Its haste in decreeing a cutover before making necessary provisions and creating the right environment to guarantee success is akin to putting the cart before the horse’

tions, and to curb money laundering.

Like all good intentions, it is not difficult to see that the measures suffer a high dose of conceptual conceit. First, it betrays such appalling misunderstanding of the psychology of the Nigerian consumer, particularly his preference for cash in transactions. Second, it denies the peculiar character of the transaction environment; flowing from the above is the third – the oversimplification of the challenges of transition.

To start with, only the CBN pretends not to know that the chief reason Nigerians prefer cash despite its attendant risks is the well known factor of convenience.

Much as the banking sector has grown in the years, in terms of its diversity and products, the development has certainly not translated into any appreciable appeal to the larger segment of the population outside the orbit of the formal economy. The industry remains largely insular – serving only those considered as high net worth, and, perhaps to a lesser degree, other operators in the formal sector.

But, even more serious is the attempt by the CBN to gloss over the peculiar character of the Nigerian payment environment. Setting such low cash thresholds for cash transactions is not only unrealistic, it seems the surest way to frustrate, if not entirely kill, small businesses many of which are routinely challenged to take decisions involving huge volumes of cash in split seconds. Even more im-

placable is the 13 months time limit set by the apex bank to bring the new limits into force.

As yet, the CBN has not told Nigerians how it intends to overcome the twin problems of access and confidence which are central to its success. Existing electronic payment channels are of course grossly inadequate; their use seem clearly exaggerated as they are largely confined to the urban centres. Even the more relatively popular cheque instrument is not without its own problems of general acceptability and trust.

Banks are known to accept only the National Drivers Licence, National Identity Card and the International Passport – as means of identification, which many Nigerians do not have. One measure of general distrust of the cheque instrument is that few merchants would dare to release their goods without first obtaining value on the instrument in their accounts.

As we know, this takes days. How does the CBN think it can overcome the identified problems in 13 months? The possibility of cash being hoarded in the black market – should the CBN insist on going ahead – would seem to loom large.

What the CBN needs to do is to continually strive to deepen the use of non-cash payment instruments, even as it seeks to rekindle trust in them. Its haste in decreeing a cutover before making necessary provisions and creating the right environment to guarantee success is akin to putting the cart before the horse.

P

RESIDENT Obama made no speech as he placed a wreath of red, white and blue flowers at ground zero on Thursday. His silence was the best way to honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. No words were needed to remind Americans of our continuing pain.

The closest Mr. Obama came to mentioning this week’s killing of Osama bin Laden was at a lunch cooked by the firefighters of Engine Company 54, Ladder Company 4 and Battalion 9, the station that lost 15 members on 9/11. “When we say we will never forget, we mean what we say.”

The sky above was deep blue when Mr. Obama stepped forth later at ground zero and bowed his head. Before privately visiting families of the victims, Mr. Obama paid his open-air respects to the nearly 3,000 who perished. He stood near what is now called the Survivor Tree — a gnarled, scalded callery pear tree found in the wreckage. It was nursed back to flourish at the heart of what will be the National September 11 Memorial and Museum.

Crowds were kept well away on surrounding sidewalks, offering their own silence beyond sight of the president. A dozen construction cranes were stilled above acres of work in progress as ground zero slowly comes back from the ashen wound it was on Sept. 11.

One World Trade Center, stood barely halfway up to its 1,776 feet, but its mirrorfinish skin reflected promisingly across the scene. “It’s not joyful, but we persevere,” one man in the crowd declared of the occasion.

He echoed the tone of President Obama before police responders from 9/11: “We did what we said we were going to do.”

New York Times

Inflation conundrum •IMF’s fear about Africa is understandable, but wasteful spending is of greater concern ITING the recovery of economic growth in many parts of subSaharan Africa, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed the fear that Central Banks in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and Mauritius, among others, may be unable to effectively contain the resultant inflationary spirals.

Ordinarily, the recovery from economic recession and the acceleration of the growth rate ought to be a positive source of optimism. But the IMF is concerned that the upsurge in global food and oil prices attendant on renewed growth will fuel inflation on the continent. It projects that a 10 per cent increase in global food prices, for instance, will, on the average boost domestic prices by three per cent.

One consequence of this will be to erode purchasing power and sharpen the challenges of poverty and inequality. The global financial institution’s fear is predicated largely on the perceived likely inability of the African Central Banks to raise interest rates quickly enough to curb inflation.

Widely acknowledged as the weakest link in the global economic chain, Africa is most vulnerable to the negative consequences of sharp increases in oil and food prices. While food is an inevitable necessity for human survival, oil is crucial to the functioning of key sectors of national economies. Most of these countries have to contend with weak socio-political and economic institutions as well as various forms of social tensions and conflicts that result in incoherent and inconsistent fiscal policies.

C

The IMF projects that inflation in subSaharan Africa will probably rise to an average of 7.8 per cent this year, compared to the figure of 7.5 per cent last year. For oil-exporting African countries, inflation is forecast to reach an average of 10.3 per cent in 2011, while in fragile countries like Zimbabwe and Democratic Republic of Congo, domestic prices will probably surge by 9.1 per cent.

Incidentally, inflation rate in Nigeria this year has exceeded the IMF’s average forecast for oil-exporting countries. It rose from 11.1 percent in February to 12.8 per cent in March. This is most likely a function of the resurgence in the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate from 6 per cent in 2008 to 7.8 per cent in 2010. The CBN has taken steps to stabilise the Naira and stem this inflationary upswing by raising its benchmark interest rate from 6 per cent to 6.5 per cent last September, and by 100 basis points from 6.5 to 7.5 per cent in February this year.

The IMF clearly places premium on African Central Banks curtailing expenditure to curb inflation. This is obvious when it states in its Outlook for sub-Saharan Africa that “Despite the recent uptick in inflation, the failure of monetary authorities in most countries to demonstrate a tightening bias is cause for some concern” and that “In those countries where growth has reverted to pre-crisis levels, the monetary policy stance should commensurately revert to a more neutral stance or even be tightened to avert incipient inflationary pressure”.

It would however appear that the delicate balance these countries must

maintain is that of controlling inflation as much as possible, without jettisoning the public expenditure that is imperative to strengthen economic growth and improve citizens’ quality of life. In Nigeria, for instance, persistent problems, including nationwide insecurity, decrepit infrastructure, mass unemployment, rampant disease and deterioration of social services call for qualitative investment of public expenditure to yield appropriate value for money.

These challenges cannot be evaded in a bid to curb inflation, as the resultant worsening poverty can threaten the very stability and survival of the nation. There is no way, for instance, that the UN Millennium Development Goals can be reasonably attained without the requisite expenditure levels.

Wasteful expenditure is the enemy to be confronted.

‘These challenges cannot be evaded in a bid to curb inflation, as the resultant worsening poverty can threaten the very stability and survival of the nation. There is no way, for instance, that the UN Millennium Development Goals can be reasonably attained without the requisite expenditure levels. Wasteful expenditure is the enemy to be confronted’

• Obama

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

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THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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EDITORIAL/OPINION

IR: This date may not ring a bell in Nigeria and indeed Africa as a result of the conspiracy of the capitalist press around the world to erase the legacies of the struggle left by this date. It signifies a month of confusion for the capitalists and their mouthpieces around the world, which were propagating the eternity of the capitalist prosperity based on post-second world war boom.

May 1968 in France was a month of gigantic struggles started by radicalized students but given a political direction and energy by French workers, which shook the foundation of capitalism at a time when many theorists, even some left-leaning intellectuals were popularizing the idea of smoothening out class contradictions as a result of the post second world war capitalist economic boom.

Although it is forty years since this heroic events occurred, the emerging class struggles/movements in every corner of the world against the rule of capital, make this date a day of reckoning for the working people in Africa and indeed the world.

The French students had embarked on peaceful campaign for educational reforms including expansion of access to millions of French youth, but were met with barrels of guns by police churned out at the instance of the Charles De Gaulle’s French strong state.

This action of the state enraged the students throughout the country leading to widespread protests by students and youths in general, with about 10 million French youths on the streets, reminiscing the French Revolution and Paris Commune.

The De Gaulle state representing the capitalist class gave far reaching concessions to the workers including increase in wages, shorter working hours, among others, which it would not have dreamt of conceding to under normal circumstances. These increased battles with the capitalist state led to the abdication and self-exile of the supposed strongman Charles de Gaulle to the United States, concluding with the famous statement that “capitalism has lost France”. Unfortunately, capitalism was restored no thanks to the treacherous policies of the trade union leadership.

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

Lessons from May 1968 revolution in France The lessons today for workers, students, youths and the oppressed in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large is that they can change society through determined struggles for genuine revolutionary change.

Unlike the propaganda of the mouthpieces of capitalism that there is no alternative to capitalism, the fact is that capitalism has failed humanity woefully despite the enormous scientific, technological, mineral, human and monetary resources at the disposal of the system.

Genuine socialism will combine publicly owned planned economy with democratic management and control by workers, communities, consumers, pensioners and the society at large, from each factory and

workplace to the national level, which will make use of enormous resources of the society for the common need of all, as against the current imperialist capitalist system where the profit interests and privileges of handful capitalist, their strategists and policy makers have become fetters to the welfare interest of the majority. The clear failure of capitalism is manifested in the increased unemployment where able bodied citizens are denied basic means of survival, not because there are no jobs for them, but because resources have to be cut and one worker made to do the jobs of several in order for profits to be maximized.

In Nigeria, despite billions of dollars accruing to the nation’s coffers,

the capitalist class has failed to improve the social infrastructures while the nation’s wealth is going to the private accounts of big business (both local and foreign) who are buying up the nation’s public enterprises and infrastructures under fraudulent arrangement, in collusion with the political class. May 1968 France is a worthy example of how the working people and youth have fought to defeat capitalism but held down by their own leaders.

This is the lesson the working people, youth and the oppressed must learn from this historic and heroic month of record.

•Kola Ibrahim Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

Nigeria’s other affliction

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IR: John Campbell (“Nigeria: The morning after,” Views, May 3) highlights the difficulties facing newly elected President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria to unite the Christian South and Muslim North but he fails to address one of the major plagues afflicting the country: corruption.

As an old oil-rig and pipeline contractor for more than 20 years, I witnessed the rampant corruption, which goes all the way from the street vendor of fake brand-name watches right up to government officials. Nothing can be achieved in the country without bribes.

Licenses, permits and business documents all have their price.

Until President Jonathan shows that he is capable of jailing the big shots who rule the Nigerian mafia, doing business in the country will continue to cost foreigners, and locals, heavily.

• Gino Bianchinim, Prague (Culled from New York Times)

Before PHCN is finally privatised

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IR: There has been a constant tug of war between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the staff of Power Holding Company (PHCN) over the proposed privatisation of the company.

The government believes an end would be put to the country’s epileptic power supply if PHCN is sold to private investors, while the workers are of the opinion that full privatisation would not only be in bad faith, but would amount to a calculated attempt by the government to jeopardize their much enjoyed job security.

My findings have left me with a shocking revelation that most of us do not really understand the true concept of the PHCN’s proposed privatisation. How sad is it that our people cannot differentiate between full scale deregulation of telecom sector that allowed private investors to set up their own companies and the proposed sale of PHCN into the hands of foreigners. What a misconception!

I am not out to condemn the proposed privatisation, but one thing I am sure is that there is more to the solution of our power problem than mere privatisation alone.

Government ought to take cognizance of the fact that abundance of gas as power fuel is very vital in the process of power generation. It is on record that most petroleum companies operating in Nigeria only put their topmost priority in tapping our oil and hence flare a large portion of our gas. A strict legislation compelling oil companies to tap, in the same manner as the oil, our gas and then channel it for onward power generation would in no small measure contribute to a considerable expansion of the power sector.

With some 3,800MW of power generated in Nigeria today, how to make the best use of it, while we plan to generate more, should be of our primary concern. Here, I believe I have a plausible suggestion: government should prohibit the use

of tungsten bulbs (yellow bulbs) while ensuring the use of energysaving bulbs in homes and industries. This would be made easy only if it goes with proper subsidy to manufacturers to reduce the prices of all types of energy-saving bulbs for general affordability.

This illustration would shed more light: the regular tungsten bulbs (yellow bulbs) has a power rating of 60Watts while that of energy-saving bulbs capable of emitting equal illumination is rated just 18Watts, leaving a difference of 42watts of power. If an average of eight bulbs is being used in a house in Nigeria, then with energy-saving bulbs in place, 336 Watts of power would be saved. Assuming eight million houses are connected to the national grid in a population of 150 million, with energy-bulbs put in place, 2,688,000,000Watts of power could be saved. Direct conversion of this to Megawatts would give 2,688MW, which is an awesome amount of power that could make noticeable

impacts on our usual power rationing.

If we could have an excess of 2,688Megawatts power available for consumption by merely encouraging widespread use of energysaving bulbs, I think this would be a good measure to stay afloat while we continue to seek further redress to our power problem.

As the government intensifies effort to privatise PHCN, I am left to wonder for how long we can afford to leave our power sector only in the hands of the foreigners or private investors. I am afraid it may be too dangerous for our national sovereignty as a nation. Not even the United States of America who believes so much in capitalism left her power sector entirely in the hands of private investors. Won’t we rather think twice before we go ahead the privatisation!

• Alimi Olukola Fatai, Osogbo, Osun State.

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THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

EDITORIAL/OPINION

All we are saying...

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HIS is not a matter for argument: God loves Nigeria.

And it is His grace that has sustained the nation thus far. If we are to go by human theory, a nation called Nigeria would have ceased to exist by now. Times without number, fatal blunders have been committed such that the nation was seen through seemingly hopeless situations through Divine manifestations.

The colonialists that amalgamated the northern and southern protectorates in 1914 knew what they were doing. They were not unaware of the adverse consequences of forcing diverse nations – in language, culture and orientation, to becoming one incoherent entity without any negotiation. It was not done to foster unity but to make their ruling easy by division. And that was the political legacy inherited at independence and has made meaningful governance a matter beyond the mediocre.

The sustenance of Nigeria as a nation has not been because of the ingenuity of any of the leadership that has occupied the saddle - or a result of the people’s grumblings and complaints about their melancholy state of depression and frustration. No; it has been by Divine grace. Simple! Give the grumbler a slight opportunity to lead, the structure in place would mess him up and would be forced to join the clan of scavengers and mutilators. Even the institutions that are supposed to be the salvagers – the judiciary, media and antcorruption agencies are so badly soiled that they hardly hold the people’s trust anymore because of prioritising the protection of self interest ahead of corporate concerns. Show me the untainted patriot and his pretensions would be unveiled.

The unquestionable bane of the nation has been the deficiency of responsive and responsible leadership, be it at the helm of governance or even at the followership level. Rather than care for the authentic needs of the people, the tendency has been to corner the common wealth for personal enhancement, leaving the masses to struggle with remnants. Most in position of leadership – high or low, official or private, would defend any bargain that favours their interests rather than sacrifice for collective good.

The most inopportune trend of the national plunder has been the greed to stack the loot to further bless the already blessed advanced economies to the detriment of the plunderers’ own poverty-stricken land where majority are wal-

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OW can one correctly describe the violence that has engulfed the northern parts of the country following the declaration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as the winner of the 2011 presidential election? Of course it will amount to litotes to describe as barbaric, the destruction of lives and property by the ignorant youths who felt that violence is the only way to address what (in their narrow-mindedness) they perceived as electoral injustice against their preferred candidate.

The gruesome killings and maiming of NYSC members make the whole scenario more pathetic. How on earth could corps members who are the future leaders of this county and who, for the sake of national unity and development, volunteered to help in the conduct of the election, become objects of attack by any sensible person or a group of people? Honestly, it is highly irrational. To me, madness is the mot juste in describing the callous massacre of our corps members who had to pay the supreme sacrifice in the name of serving one’s fatherland. If one may ask here, is it a sin to serve one’s fatherland? Or is it a sin to help in the conduct of an election that has been adjudged to be free, fair and transparent? In fact, the only way to rationalise it is that madness has taken over the perpetrators of the violence.

While I agree with many writers and analysts who have blamed our intelligence agencies for their failure to see ahead and work towards nipping the violence in the bud, nothing but ignorance – lack of education on the part of perpetrators of the violence is the major factor that is responsible for all these acts of inhumanity to man. An educated youth, well bred and responsible will never take up arms against his fellow human beings for whatever reasons. He knows there are civilised ways of addressing grievances and perceived injustice and that it is absolutely wrong and unconstitutional to take laws into one’s hand. This is why there is relative peace in the south as against the situation in the north where violence has become an intractable cankerworm. The massive lack of education amongst the almajiris in the north is a great disease which, if not immediately addressed, will spell doom for the unity of this country because no parent will be happy watching his or her child on whom he or she has invested a lot being slaughtered like a fowl in the name of national unity by some ignoramuses who have nothing tangible to contribute to the society.

The incessant killings of corps members brings to the fore the question of whether the NYSC scheme is still relevant. There is no doubt that the scheme has outlived its usefulness and purpose. It is obvious that the basis for which it was established has been completely bastardised and

lowing in penury amidst God’s abundant provisions. Not only has this stalled the nation’s progress, it has been mortgaging its future and the hope of the coming generations.

In a matter of weeks, a new chapter of the republic would be enthroned based on the peoples’ mandate in the relatively credible April polls. The voting masses have invested their power in anticipation of rewarding dividends. The onus would then be on the favoured ones to fulfil their mandates by paying back the people with their performance.

Will the incoming administrations at all levels play the game as usual and expect results different from the past failures of governance? That will run counter to the will of God and of the people, as well as the tenet of progress. It is not that those privileged to occupy the position of leadership are ignorant of what is right and what the people need. The nation’s successive administrations’ failure to deliver can easily be ascribed to lack of passion to succeed. Because they have the in-built attitude that things should not work for the people, their actions would ensure that their tenure delivers nothing that would impact positively on the life of the people.

Yes, there might be activities as usual, but they are hardly the needful. Flyovers cannot be the priority of a hungry people. Nigeria is under-performing because those working among the leaders are not focussed on impactful performance but on flash-in-the-pan projects to satisfy the desires and pockets of few. The moment our leaders develop new attitudes to corporate assets and resources, they will begin to do what is productive instead of vain things that seem popular.

What the voters have said with their votes is the desire for national transformation such that would give meaning to their lives and of their children. If the elected leaders can put aside self, appreciate their full responsibilities and work towards achieving lasting results, tangible expectations of all sincere stakeholders in the common entity called Nigeria would be met. This goes beyond the so-called Government of National Unity that never worked in the past. It would be more of truly enhancing the nation’s integrity in fulfilling the purpose of God that would make the people eat the good of the land.

Once our incoming leaders, the new and the re-elected, realise that they are where they are because God wants them there, and that all the resources needed to succeed are provided by the same God, they’ll develop the spirit of accountability and begin to serve the people to the benefit of the nation. Those who would end as failures are those who have made up their minds to get rewarded before fulfilling their mandates.

The future of the nation is in the hands of today’s leaders. If from day one in office they are focussed on the concrete and lasting legacies they intend to leave behind at the end of their tenures, then they will not plummet into the dunghill

Post-election violence and education

By Kola Odepeju eroded. Lack of job opportunities for the corps members and lack of unity amongst the federating units as evident in the continuous wastage of NYSC members are two factors that justify this assertion. The time has come to scrap this scheme that has continuously proved to be a disaster for our youths rather than blessing.

Of what use is a scheme that sends our future leaders to the den of vampires where they meet their untimely death? To be realistic, there is no unity in this country. The whole noise about national unity is just mere mouthing slogan both at the elitist level and at the level of followers. Our elites are daily planting seeds of discord and the result is the disunity we are reaping every day in terms of unnecessary wastage of human lives and property. Far from being non-patriotic, the time has come to stop deceiving ourselves in this country by talking of a united Nigeria being in existence. We can have it if we want to but honestly, we don’t have it yet.

Nothing will make us have a united Nigeria than the convocation of a Sovereign National Conference (SNC). It’s high time our elites put on their thinking caps and agree to the convocation of this conference. Enough is enough to all this denials. The convocation of a conference of all ethnic nationalities that constitute this mere geographical expression called Nigeria where modalities of living together will be discussed is becoming imperative by the day. For how long are we going to continue to live in denial? It is better now than for it to come when it will be too late – when the dire consequences of our failure to call it at the right time will be too much to bear, for, it is quite obvious now that failure to call SNC is gradually ruining this country and it will ruin it completely in our very eyes if we continue to run away from the truth. There are a number of national questions really but the major one is SNC. It is the lead national question – the first step to take in finding solutions to the myriads of problems confronting this country.

I give kudos to those state governments that have gone

of history where their failed predecessors are dumped. All Nigerians are saying to the in-coming elected leadership: develop new attitudes to governance; be focussed and be determined to perform excellently; shun corruption; serve the people with sincere zeal and the best of abilities.

If Dubai could be transformed through visionary leadership within two decades from being a desert land to becoming the centre of world tourism and global investment, what stops our richly endowed nation from beginning the journey from the wilderness to the Promised Land as from this May 29? It’s all in our hands.

FEEDBACK: •At last, the self-acclaimed ‘Lion of the West’ have been caged. OGD had all the opportunities in this world to turn around the fortunes of Ogun state, but squandered it on sheer ego. We are waiting as he gradually walk into jail. I hope his case will not be like Ibori (ti o ri ile bori). What an irony of life? We are waiting and laughing too like Obj. – Boye •Re: ‘Weeping may endure’. I wonder why people couldn’t read through the lines before criticising Asiwaju Tinubu. It was quite evident that J.E.G.A will win the presidential polls, notwithstanding the party he belongs to. Lagos will never regret voting for him. It’s Obj who will live to regret his disservice to Lagos. · On the eve of election in Akwa Ibom, at about 1.30pm, amidst ominous torrential rainfall in Uyo, rampaging security officials – SSS, police, invaded Aswill printing Press and Noble Printing Press, publishers of The Global Concord newspaper, a vocal weekly tabloid, and carted away 5,000 copies of paper, arrested seven press staff who were kept incommunicado at Ikot Akpan Abia Police Headquarters. Is this a free and fair election?

•In all you wrote about Jonathan, you did not say anything about deceit, betrayal and hypocrisy. After reading your piece, my brother concluded that with money and power of incumbency, even Satan can win election in Nigeria and virtually become a saint. It’s not the God of heaven that enthroned Jonathan, but that ‘god’ at Ota. Say things as they are.

‘If Dubai could be transformed through visionary leadership within two decades from being a desert land to becoming the centre of world tourism and global investment, what stops our richly endowed nation from beginning the journey from the wilderness to the Promised Land as from this May 29? It’s all in our hands’ ahead to evacuate their indigenes from the north. Thank God some of our leaders are realising the futility of this NYSC scheme and the fact that the unity we are talking about in this country is fake. It will be preposterous for people who have something meaningful to contribute not only to their fatherland but to the advancement of entire humanity to allow those who have no atom of respect for human life to continue to waste them and slaughter them like fowls. The federal government must as a matter of urgency start taking steps now to address the massive illiteracy amongst the teeming population in the north. The recent judgement passed by ECOWAS Court that every Nigerian child must be given free and compulsory basic education must be implemented forthwith. The Nigerian government has no excuse not to do this. We have enough resources to cater for this and nothing should stop the full implementation of the judgement.

Finally, my heart goes out to the victims of the senseless post-presidential election killings and maiming in the north.

May the souls of the deceased rest in peace and may God give all the bereaved the fortitude to bear all these irreparable loses– Amen. Much as no amount can compensate for human life, the government must give huge compensations for the families of those who lost their lives and also give compensations to those who sustained injuries and those who lost their property. More importantly, government must get to the root of the violence and punish the perpetrators of this animalistic tendency accordingly.

The recent judgement passed

by ECOWAS Court that every Nigerian child must be given free and compulsory basic education must be implemented forthwith. The Nigerian government has no excuse not to do this. We have enough resources to cater for this and nothing should stop the full implementation of the judgement.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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EDITORIAL/OPINION

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OUR Excellency, let me congratulate you on behalf of the feeble and the maimed, members of my constituency on your recent victory at the polls. Your excellenecy, polio is PAIN. It is absolutely impossible for me to express in words the terrible nature of its pain. As you read this piece, I sincerely pray that you would read between lines, seeing the invisible, and cause your mind’s eye to read those words that cannot be coded in the language of mortal men.

But why is my heart pained? Why am I having continuous sorrow of mind and anguish of spirit?

In the entire universe, there are only four countries remaining with endemic polio.

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) of World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, Rotary International and Centre for Disease Control (CDC) of USA defines polio as PAIN. This is derived from the acronym of the four endemic nations of Pakistan, Afghanistan, India and Nigeria. But I define polio as Polio-survivors Amount to Inferior Nigerians.

Polio recreates us. Polio dehumanizes us by changing our physical status and sometimes reduces us to mere animals walking on our four limbs like goats or crawling on our chest like tortoise. If we allow it, polio can destroy our destiny.

That bouncing baby boy/girl, the pride of his/her parents, can become an eye-sore that we want to hide behind the door.

These and many others are what polio can do.

Your Excellency, what crosses your mind when you see fellow human beings crawling on their chest like tortoise?

Please don’t abandon your responsibility as a father. You are our father.

There is a call to duty, a humanitarian call to safeguard our future. Therefore, this deadly and lethal polio virus must be eliminated from our country and continent. It is the single largest virus that claims responsibility for the deformity and incapacitation of our children. This is one side of its evil effects. If there remains a boy or a girl from the remotest village in the North to the remotest village in the South or from the remotest village in the East to the remotest village in the West who cannot live life in full – go to school, get good education, get lucrative job, marry and participate in nation building – because of deformity from po-

Polio survivor writes President Jonathan

By Olugbenga J. Kuye lio infection, then to that boy, to that girl and to all of us as peoples of this great country, polio still exists as a social menace. This must be eradicated.

How are we going to accomplish this great feat? Prof Onyebushi Chukwu told us last year when you appointed him as health minister that polio would be dead in one year. Then I wrote an article that was published under the caption, The Health Minister and Polio Eradication.

In the article, I gave him advice as a stakeholder in this crusade. Excerpts: “…as I went about sharing my joy of the imminent death of the last polio virus in Nigeria, I heard a loud and sharp voice within my heart which said, don’t fool yourself, polio eradication is not a one-man affair; you may still be living in a fool’s paradise’. Then I came to myself and almost speak aloud, ‘yes my mind is right, polio eradication any where and at any time must be a team work. And our minister is but one man. With him alone, no matter how zealous he is about it, this goal will be a mirage… …Knowing the type and enormity of the problem we have to contend with in polio will make it easy for us to device the techniques and methods to solve it. From the view of the honourable minister for health, polio is seen as a health problem. But from the view of Polio Rescue Association (PRASS), polio is seen as a multifaceted problem- health, educational, economic, security, social etc. And tackling it from only one side may not achieve the desired result… …Another point that is germane to building a formidable team against poliomyelitis is the involvement of polio survivors in the crusade. Polio survivors wear the shoes and know where they pinch. They know the pains of suffering from polio from their personal experiences and wouldn’t want such pains to replicate in other innocent children. Besides that, parents, guardians and other stakeholders would be convinced to take the issue of immunisation seriously when they see

and hear (from the horse’ mouth) what will become of their wards/children if they reject immunisation… …the British Polio Fellowship (BPF) is a major advocacy group in United Kingdom while Polio Survivors and Associates (PSA) is a strong force in polio eradication in United States of America. If we have to make good riddance of wild polio cases and the attendant vices in Nigeria, it cannot be otherwise, Polio Rescue Association (PRASS) is determined to work with government at all levels and with other corporate bodies and NonGovernmental Organisations to END POLIO NOW in Nigeria”.

During the stakeholders’ forum on Polio Eradication in Lagos State held on August 8, 2009, a participant suggested that I should write a cartoon to enlighten Lagosians on the ills of polio. We need enlightenment. Why do people beat up our immunisation team? Sheer ignorance. No one who is educated and know the depth of the havoc that polio can do would dare to reject polio vaccine or worse still mobilise base men to beat up immunisation team members. Now, the draft copy is ready. The cartoon or comic titled The Polio, is the first indigenous anti-polio comic in Nigeria. It is an intellectual property of no comparative value.

It is not a comic for Lagosians only; it is a piece with the main objective to make an average Nigerian an anti-polio campaigner. It is written to incite all Nigerians against poliomyelitis. I want to publish it as comic magazine for the reading Nigerian populace and equally run it as television programme for television audience.

A photograph taken from Sierra Leone first national polio immunisation campaign in 1999 shows five men wearing ‘Kick Polio out of Africa’ T-shirts over military fatigues. Unexceptionally, unless you know who they are: leaders of the country’s five main warring factions. The initiative brought them together in the same room for the first time. They put

down their guns, if only briefly, for the health of Sierra Leone Children. This is all we need to do in Nigeria. Though we are not in war time, there are political, religious and language differences; geographical barriers, class divides, and many more. Here, if the battle against polio must be won, we must put down all differences and barriers to fight and conquer polio, polio survivors being at the vanguard of this fight.

Your Excellency, you have proved yourself a worthy and dependable leader in the area of electoral reforms, making it possible to have internationally acclaimed free, fair and credible elections.

You have single-handedly restored Nigeria to committee of credible people in the political arena. But you don’t want to continue to be a good leader over crippled children who are at the mercy of poliomyelitis. You don’t want to be a good leader over a country with unbroken records of wild polio cases. You don’t want to be a presiding officer over the PAIN countries. In less than one year, we can celebrate the final funeral rites of the last poliovirus, if you wish. Polio eradication in Nigeria is possible! Better and decent livelihood for polio survivors is possible!! This depends on you!!!

• Kuye a polio survivor is author and coordinator of the anti-polio outfit, Polio Rescue Association (PRASS).

‘You have singlehandedly restored Nigeria to committee of credible people in the political arena. But you don’t want to continue to be a good leader over crippled children who are at the mercy of poliomyelitis. You don’t want to be a good leader over a country with unbroken records of wild polio cases. You don’t want to be a presiding officer over the PAIN countries’

VIEW FROM THE FOREIGN PRESS

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HERE is only one good thing about the fact that Osama bin Laden survived for nearly 10 years after the mass murder at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon that he organized. And that is that he lived long enough to see so many young Arabs repudiate his ideology.

He lived long enough to see Arabs from Tunisia to Egypt to Yemen to Syria rise up peacefully to gain the dignity, justice and self-rule that Bin Laden claimed could be obtained only by murderous violence and a return to puritanical Islam.

We did our part. We killed Bin Laden with a bullet. Now the Arab and Muslim people have a chance to do their part — kill Bin Ladenism with a ballot — that is, with real elections, with real constitutions, real political parties and real progressive politics.

Yes, the bad guys have been dealt a blow across the Arab world in the last few months — not only Al Qaeda, but the whole

‘We did our part. We killed Bin Laden with a bullet. Now the Arab and Muslim people have a chance to do their part — kill Bin Ladenism with a ballot — that is, with real elections, with real constitutions, real political parties and real progressive politics’

Farewell to Geronimo

By Thomas l. Friedman rogues’ gallery of dictators, whose soft bigotry of low expectations for their people had kept the Arab world behind. The question now, though, is: Can the forces of decency get organized, elected and start building a different Arab future? That is the most important question. Everything else is noise.

To understand that challenge, we need to recall, again, where Bin Ladenism came from. It emerged from a devil’s bargain between oil-consuming countries and Arab dictators. We all — Europe, America, India, China — treated the Arab world as a collection of big gas stations, and all of us sent the same basic message to the petrodictators: Keep the oil flowing, the prices low and don’t bother Israel too much and you can treat your people however you like, out back, where we won’t look. Bin Laden and his followers were a product of all the pathologies that were allowed to grow in the dark out back — crippling deficits of freedom, women’s empowerment and education across the Arab world.

These deficits nurtured a profound sense of humiliation among Arabs at how far behind they had fallen, a profound hunger to control their own futures and a pervasive sense of injustice in their daily lives.

That is what is most striking about the Arab uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia in particular. They were almost apolitical.

They were not about any ideology. They were propelled by the most basic human longings for dignity, justice and to control one’s own life. Remember, one of the first things Egyptians did was attack their own police stations — the instruments of regime injustice. And since millions of Arabs share these longings for dignity, justice and freedom, these revolutions are not going to go away.

For decades, though, the Arab leaders were very adept at taking all that anger brewing out back and redirecting it onto the United States and Israel. Yes, Israel’s own behavior at times fed the Arab sense of humiliation and powerlessness, but it was not the primary cause. No matter.

While the Chinese autocrats said to their people, “We’ll take away your freedom and, in return, we’ll give you a steadily rising education and standard of living,” the Arab autocrats said, “We’ll take away your freedom and give you the Arab-Israel conflict.”

This was the toxic “out back” from which Bin Laden emerged. A twisted psychopath and false messiah, he preached that only through violence — only by destroying these Arab regimes and their American backers — could the Arab people end their humiliation, restore justice and build some mythical uncorrupted caliphate.

Very few Arabs actively supported Bin

Laden, but he initially drew significant passive support for his fist in the face of America, the Arab regimes and Israel. But as Al Qaeda was put on the run, and spent most of its energies killing other Muslims who didn’t toe its line, even its passive support melted away (except for the demented leadership of Hamas).

In that void, with no hope of anyone else riding to their rescue, it seems — in the totally unpredictable way these things happen — that the Arab publics in Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen and elsewhere shucked off their fears and decided that they themselves would change what was going on out back by taking over what was going on out front.

And, most impressively, they decided to do it under the banner of one word that you hear most often today among Syrian rebels: “Silmiyyah.” It means peaceful.

“We will do this peacefully.” It is just the opposite of Bin Ladenism. It is Arabs saying in their own way: We don’t want to be martyrs for Bin Laden or pawns for Mubarak, Assad, Gaddafi, Ben Ali and all the rest. We want to be “citizens.” Not all do, of course. Some prefer more religious identities and sectarian ones. This is where the struggle will be.

We cannot predict the outcome. All we can hope for is that this time there really will be a struggle of ideas — that in a region where extremists go all the way and moderates tend to just go away, this time will be different. The moderates will be as passionate and committed as the extremists. If that happens, both Bin Laden and Bin Ladenism will be resting at the bottom of the ocean.

New York Times

I knew I’d score winning goal — Terry Envoh Pg. 41

2011 WAFU NATIONS CUP

I can’t stop scoring goals —Ehiosun

Pg. 42

Nation Monday, May 9, 2011

FREE COPY

PAGE 23

•Peter Odemwingie of West Brom celebrates after scoring a goal

Osaze claims 15-goal target in Baggies' loss S

UPER EAGLES and West Bromwich Albion in-form striker, Osaze Odemwingie yesterday made good his promise, hitting his 15th goal of the season in the England Premier League (EPL).

The Nigerian international scored the consolation goal for the Baggies in a 1-3 loss.

Thomas went down inside the box, under a

challenge from Guedioura and referee Mike Dean pointed to the spot and booked the Wolves’ midfielder. The resultant penalty was what allowed Odemwingie to step up and tucked the ball into the far corner of the net.

The Hodgson tutored-side, stung by the third goal, attempted to find a way back into the game, with Thomas again having a strike from

the edge of the area, which Hennessey dealt with comfortably.

Meanwhile, West Brom boss Roy Hodgson is confident that the club will open talks over a new contract with leading scorer Peter Odemwingie.

The Nigerian international has made a huge impact following his summer move to the

Hawthorns, with 14 goals notched so far this term. Odemwingie has a year left on his current contract with an option for a further 12-months, but Hodgson is hoping a new contract is in the offing.

“I’m pretty sure the club would be prepared to discuss an extension of Peter’s contract,” Hodgson had said.

MONDAY, MAY 09, 2011

24

NATION SPORT

NATION SPORT

Mourinho wants Lampard for Real REAL Madrid coach Jose Mourinho is believed to be keen on signing Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard.

The experienced England international was heavily linked with a move to Inter when the Portuguese boss joined the Italian club, but that transfer did not materialise as the midfielder remained at Stamford Bridge.

Now The Mirror reports that the Spanish side are considering offering Kaka to the Blues at a significant discount from the expected £40 million asking price if Lampard can be persuaded to make the switch to the Bernabeu as part of any deal.

Although Lampard is believed to be in favour of remaining at Chelsea, it is reported his lucrative contract could see the club seek to offload him as the Premier League club look to bring in other high-profile high earners without inflating the overall wage bill too much.

The Blues have been long-term admirers of Brazil star Kaka, who has seen injuries interrupt his career at Real

Madrid to date. They are expected to face competition from Manchester City or AC Milan if the playmaker does indeed leave the Spanish capital this summer.

N •Mourinho

Henry scores as NY Red Bulls draw FRENCH star Thierry Henry scored with Galaxy early for New York and US striker Landon Donovan equalized for Los Angeles in a showdown of Major

Guardiola flattered by Inter Milan rumours BARCELONA boss Pep Guardiola admits he is flattered by talk of interest from Inter Milan.

Guardiola had been top of the wishlist after Jose Mourinho renewed his commitment to Real Madrid.

“I am honoured by Inter’s interest in me and they are a great club,” said the Spaniard.

“I still have a year on my contract with Barcelona. In any case, before anything else I have to talk to the team and the directors.”

League Soccer conference leaders that ended in a 1-1 draw.

Saturday's matchup featured the US league's two best-known global stars, Red Bulls striker Henry and English midfielder David Beckham of the Galaxy.

Henry opened the scoring in the fourth minute but Donovan equalized for the Galaxy in the 41st minute.

Donovan nearly put Los Angeles ahead moments later after a pass from Beckham but the American's effort was cleared off the line by a New York defender.

"Got one, should have had another," Donovan said. "In all, a fair result."

The Eastern Conference leader Red Bulls saw a four-match win streak snapped, moving to 4-1 with three drawn, while the Western Conference pace-setting Galaxy moved to 4-2 with four drawn.

Man City needs further spending MANCHESTER City manager Roberto — Mancini Mancini has sent out a message to the United were able to play a changed lineupper management of the club that the recent spending must continue if success is to be achieved.

City have spent a massive amount of money since Sheikh Mansour took over the club, through Mark Hughes' time as well as after the arrival of the Italian.

The former Inter boss has come close to wrapping up fourth place - and a qualifying spot to next season's Champions League - as the Eastlands outfit are six points ahead of their nearest rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Now the Italian has encouraged the upper echelon to continue a similar style of spending on transfer - as they have in recent transfer windows - to ensure that success is achieved.

"For us to stay near the top for a long time was good," Mancini said, according to The Sun. "But during a moment in the season, like February or March when we played Europa League, Premier League and FA Cup, we played every three days.

"It's very difficult if you don't have a big list of players - it's impossible to go on for the final of these cups and play for the title."

Mancini added weight to his belief by citing how arch-rivals Manchester

•Mancini

Nigerian duo aim for C success in Turkey

up against Schalke and yet register a 4-1 victory.

He added: "United will play eight or nine different players from the side that played Schalke for the match against Chelsea. They can make these changes and still win.

"I think we have a good team. We should improve - if we buy other players - because when you play in the Champions League every team is strong."

Our provides the best breaking news online and our football fan community is unmatched worldwide. Never miss a thing again!

IGERIAN duo Simon Zenke and Akeem Agbetu are aiming to make their mark on the Turkish Super League, after helping their club Samsunspor gain promotion.

The pair played a key role in the team's success in ending a five-year spell in the second division.

The former youth internationals are revered by fans in the city of Samsun, on Turkey's north coast.

"Promotion is sweet but we're not going in simply to make up the numbers," Zenke told BBC Sport.

"The challenge for us is to get there and prove we can mix with the big teams and big players in the Super

Siasia —We get better with each game

N

IGERIA coach Samson Siasia said the Home based Super Eagles played well and expressed happiness that the team was gradually picking up after seeing his side beat Niger 4-0 to qualify for the semi finals of the WAFU tournament currently taking place in Nigeria. Siasia spoke to Cafonline after the Niger victory.

What was your impression of the Eagles against Niger today?

First I must congratulate the players.

They played very well and played to instructions. Tactically, we were sound; they won the ball, kept it and passed very well. Each time they lost it, they fought hard to win it back. I am happy with the way they played.

Chibuzo Okonkwo who normally plays in the heart of the defence was played as defensive midfielder in the match. Why? Stanley Okoronkwo who plays that role was not feeling too well and we do not have enough players in the squad that is why I played Chibuzo in that position.

He is a player who has been tried in different positions. We needed someone who could pass the ball and protect it. I have tried him in several positions. I think generally, they all played well.

•Siasia

Grant refuses to give up on Hammers AVRAM Grant remains convinced West Ham can escape the drop after clinching a vital home point against Blackburn Rovers in a 1-1 draw.

The Hammers remain at the bottom of the Premier League table with two games remaining and need to win away to Wigan Athletic next weekend to have a realistic chance of staying up.

Their plight would have been much worse had Thomas Hitzlsperger not struck a 78th minute equaliser to cancel out Jason Roberts's 13th minute opening goal.

And Grant, the West Ham manager, believes his team can still turn things around and secure safety on the final day of the campaign against Sunderland.

"I think I'm confident," he said. "We have a chance to stay up, of course.

"But first we need to win at Wigan. If we win against Wigan, we'll be above them," added the Israeli, relegated last season with Portsmouth.

"This is the most important game.

Two games before the end, this is the most important game. We need to win.

I know they also want to win and they're at home, but we have a chance."

With West Ham co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold both commenting publicly on the club's slim chances of staying up and continuing speculation about Grant's future, the manager has been forced to defend his position.

But he insisted everyone at Upton Park was united in their efforts to avoid the drop.

"Everyone in the club wants West Ham to succeed," he said. "Sometimes some people makes mistakes. But everyone, from the kit man to the owner, wants West Ham to succeed.

"This was our target. We thought things would be different. On the football side, we don't have complaints. This is the football we more or less wanted to play this season."

West Ham were again forced to cope without Scott Parker, the English Football Writers? Player of the Year, who was missing with an Achilles problem.

Parker was joined on the sidelines by fellow midfielder Mark Noble while Jack Collison returned to action as a substitute for his first appearance of the season.

League.

"It will be difficult but we're going to have a real go and enjoy ourselves."

Zenke has scored 15 goals this season, with two games left to play, and has been central to Samsunspor's success.

The 22-year-old is aiming to emulate his compatriot Emmanuel Emenike, who took Karabükspor to promotion last season and has since attracted interest from around Europe.

"There's always one or two people who motivates you, I must admit that they help you believe in yourself, and Emenike is one of them," Zenke said.

"I am my own man but watching him here in Turkey and his success gives me the extra push and motivation."

Many of his Zenke's goals have been set-up by his compatriot, Agbetu, who has plenty of pace and skill of his own.

"I have played in the top league before, but there is something special in this squad that makes us feel good about next season already," Agbetu, who is 23 and on loan from Sivaspor, told the BBC. Samsunspor have strong financial backing and are expected to compete well in the top flight next season.

The pair are hoping that their success in taking the club into the Super League will attract attention back home in Nigeria.

"At the end of the day it's all about us as a team and hopefully my performance here will remind selectors back home [in Nigeria] that I can bring a lot to the Olympic or senior squad," Zenke told the BBC.

OACH John Obuh would have blamed himself had he not introduced striker Terry Envoh in last Sunday's explosive final match between Nigeria and Cameroon at the recent Africa Youth Championship (AYC) in South Africa.

The Flying Eagles' coach had relied heavily on the Sharks of Port Harcourt skilful and fast attacker for goals during the 2009 FIFA Under-17 World Cup hosted by Nigeria, which the Golden Eaglets finished as runner up after losing to Switzerland in the final.

Obuh had to turn to the dribbling wizard for injured Abdul Ajagun minutes before regulation time after the Junior Lions of Cameroon's dramatic comeback in a match the Flying Eagles squandered two goals lead. The substitution paid off in the early minutes of the first half of the extra time, when the graduate of Kwara Football Academy outpaced and rounded the Cameroonian defenders and fired home the winning goal.

Envoh told Saturday Sunsports that he knew he was going to score the winner and so, made his conviction known to his teammates on the bench before going into the pitch.

'I knew I was going to score the winning goal and I told my teammates of my conviction before I entered the pitch. One of our officials, the team coordinator, also came down from the VIP stand to tell me that I was going to score the winning goal. I just give God the glory,' he said.

On how he was able to deal with the strong Cameroonian defenders before scoring the goal, the former Mighty Jet forward replied thus: 'I expected a tackle from the Cameroonian defenders, but I had

FALLOUT OF NIGERIA/ CAMEROON AYC MATCH

I knew I'd score winning goal— Terry Envoh made up my mind not to go down except the tackle was so hard that I could not withstand it. The referee had denied us several penalty appeals, so I was determined to keep the ball until I had scored.

'Our coach always tells us to concentrate on our game and forget about the referees. He said that God

would always reward our hard work with victory and punish the referees for their bad officiating.'

Envoh expressed confidence that he would make the Flying Eagles' squad to the forthcoming FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Colombia even if the team would be overhauled before the championship.

K

•As Ehiosun commends team work

By Stella Bamawo an honour and privilege. Whenever I am adorning the green and white jersey, I know I am representing my fatherland . I want to give 120 percent in all the matches I play and I can say that is what I am doing right now, like they say, ‘a tree cannot make a forest’.

Together with the team we intend to achieve something. So for the fact that I am always getting on the score sheet, it is not my power anyway, so it is a collective effort of the team. As a striker, like the coach will always tell me that the only thing I want you to do, is to get there and put the ball at the back of the net because that is the ability of the striker and the only thing I do is at anytime I play is to get the ball at the back net. I don’t want to know what it takes to get there, but whatever I do, I want to get the ball at the back of the net. One thing that has been working for me is just the grace of God.” It can be recalled that the WAFU Cup was last won by the Home based Super Eagles under Daniel Amokachi

ENGLAND FA CUP

Tevez rated '50%' fit for final ROBERTO Mancini and Carlos Tevez Tevez's return to the side would be a huge boost ahead of the Cup final Manchester City boss Roberto

•Tevez

Mancini says Carlos Tevez has a 50% chance of being fit for the FA Cup final after his recent hamstring injury.

Tevez has not played since April 11 and Mancini says if the striker is not fit to train before Tuesday's game with Tottenham he is unlikely to face Stoke.

"He must train. In the next days we'll see if it is possible," he said.

"If he can play 20 minutes we can see if he can play or not. At the moment I think he's 50% for the final."

Mancini's team take on Stoke at Wembley on 14 May in their first FA Cup final appearance since 1981 and will they will be desperate for the talismanic club captain to be fit for selection.

Tevez missed the semi-final win over his former club Manchester United and was not involved in Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Everton, a result which places even more emphasis on Tuesday's game at Eastlands.

and South American teams at the World Cup, while expressing confidence that he and his teammates could replicate their AYC form on the global stage.

'The Europeans and South Americans do not have two heads. We want to repeat what the Ghanaian team did at the World Cup in the last edition of the competition. By the grace of God, we can win the World Cup,' he predicted.

Nigeria loses out to Kuwait

Chibuzor undergoes MRI test today

C

'Nigeria is a country of over 150 million people and has abundant talents in the game of football. It is not all of us that were in the Under-17 squad in 2009 that are in the current Flying Eagles. Some were dropped due to indiscipline. But it was discipline and determination that saw me through. I believe I will make the squad to Colombia.'

The Flying Eagles' prolific forward dismissed any threat from European

PEPSI I ICC WCL DIV. 7

WAFU CUP TOURNAMENT

OACH Samson Siasia has explained that the Captain of the team, Chibuzor Okonkwo will undergo an MRI test today after sustaining an ankle injury towards the last minutes of the first half of the match which saw Nigeria thrashing Niger Republic 4-0 in their second group game at the ongoing sub-regional West Africa Football Union (WAFU) Cup tournament holding in Abeokuta.

In a chat with the NationSports, Siasia said: “He (Chibuzor) injured his ankle, three of the players didn’t come for this game too. So, we just try to manage the ones we have. I think the injury is a little bit severe, he went for scan today, (Saturday) and hopefully he will do the MRI test on Monday and the doctor will tell me exactly what is wrong with him but hopefully, he is going to be okay.”

Meanwhile, the rave of the moment, Ekhigo Ehiosun has expressed a desire to put in his best at the tourney to ensure victory for his team.

He said: “First and foremost I want to say thank you for the wonderful support you have been giving the national team so far . I want to say, it is

41

•Terry Envoh

UWAIT beat Nigeria by 72 runs in the final of Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division 7 (WCL Div. 7) at BCA Oval 1 in Gaborone on Sunday.

Having been set a target of 220 by Kuwait, Nigeria didn’t start well with the side losing wickets early on and despite a fight-back by the middleorder Kuwait’s Mohammad Murad had other plans in mind claiming 4-20 and walking away with the man of the match award for the final.

Murad’s second man of the match award along with the fast bowler’s 15 wickets in the tournament earned the 21-year-old the accolade of Player of the Tournament. The left-armed bowler had an economy rate of just 3.47 while his best figures came against Norway when he took 6-39.

By virtue of reaching the final, both Kuwait and Nigeria joined Fiji, Malaysia, Jersey and Guernsey in the Pepsi ICC WCL Div. 6 which will be staged from 17 to 24 September in Malaysia.

Having won the toss, Endurance Ofem elected to bowl against Kuwait and the captain’s decision didn’t quite have the desired effect when opener Irfan Bhatti hit 60 runs off 77 balls before being dismissed by Joshua Ogunlola after being caught behind by inform wicketkeeper Ademola Onikoyi.

Onikoyi had a great day behind the stumps claiming five catches while bowler Olajide Bejide claimed four wickets but the team’s efforts in the field

Other Sports...Other Sports...Other Sports...Other Sports...Other Sports...Other Sports...

Pacquiao beats Shane Mosley to Nadal beats Federer, MANNY Pacquiao dominated from the to play Djokovic first bell to the last to score a unanimous retain WBO belt points decision over Shane Mosley and retain his WBO welterweight title.

A huge odds-on pre-fight favourite, Pacquiao had 39-year-old Mosley down in the third round and came close to being the first boxer to stop the American.

And although Mosley bravely hung on the Filipino was handed a 119-108, 120-108, 120-107 verdict in Las Vegas.

"He felt my power," Pacquiao said. "I did my best to give a good fight."

Going into the fight, Mosley had promised the contest would show off two warriors but after the initial sparring the American spent almost the entirety of the fight in retreat.

Filipino Pacquiao floored Mosley with a straight left in the third and continued the assault through the middle rounds, with a Mosley right hook in the sixth one of the few notable ripostes.

And by the eighth round the 32-yearold Pacquiao had forced Mosley into a full defensive mode, the American's tactics prompting boos from sections of the 16,000 crowd at the MGM Grand Hotel.

With Mosley determined to retain a

proud record of never being stopped in 54 fights (46-7-1) the latter rounds followed a predictable pattern, Pacquiao attacking, Mosley doing just enough to stay competitive in referee Kenny Bayless' mind.

There was one moment of concern for six-weight world champion Pacquiao when he was adjudged to have been put down in the 10th although his journey to the canvas appeared to have been aided by a slip.

•Pacquiao

in Madrid

THE top-ranked Rafael Nadal rallied to reach his third straight Madrid Open final with a 5-7, 6-1, 6-3 victory Saturday, and surging Serb Novak Djokovic beat unseeded Thomaz Bellucci 4-6, 6-4, 6-1.

The Spaniard will try for his first title in three attempts against Djokovic in 2011 after the second-ranked Serb extended his perfect start to the season to 31 matches, equaling Bjorn Borg's streak in 1980 and behind only John McEnroe's 42 straight victories in 1984.

Djokovic has won five titles on the current run - including the Australian Open - and is 33-0 stretching to last year's Davis Cup win to pass Nadal for the eighth-longest streak.

Earlier, Victoria Azarenka of Belarus ended German Julia Goerges' 10-match winning streak 6-4, 6-2 to set up the women's final against Czech Petra Kvitova, who ousted sixth-seeded Li Na of China 6-3, 6-1.

Canada advanced to the quarterfinals of the ice hockey world championship after beating Norway 3-2 on Saturday in Kosice, Slovakia, and the U.S. moved into position to do the same by coming from a goal down to beat France 3-2 on Mark Stuart's goal.

proved futile as Kuwait’s batsmen made a decent total of 219 in its 50 overs.

In reply, Nigeria’s batting could not withstand fast bowler Murad whose four wickets for 20 runs in just 8.5 overs proved the cornerstone of the Kuwaiti side’s attack alongside Saad Khalid. The top order failed to perform today giving Kuwait’s bowlers the chance to shine.

The victorious Kuwait captain Hisham Mirza said on receiving the trophy from ICC Board Director and Executive Board Director of Bermuda Cricket Neil Speight: “I don’t think we came into this tournament in Botswana as favourites as we didn’t know the other teams we would be facing. It wasn’t our home tournament and the only side we had background on was Germany having played them in Division 8.

“We played each game as it came and it worked out well for us as we came out victorious again. I don’t think I can single out one player that performed for me as we are very much a team effort. However, I will mention my fast bowlers, they’ve been the best in Division 7 and Division 8 in my opinion. They are quick, they are good but we’re in this as a team.

•Valdano

Valdano slams UEFA over Mourinho's ban

REAL Madrid coach Jose Mourinho's five-match touchline ban in European competition is over the top, the club's director general Jorge Valdano said on Saturday.

European soccer's governing body (UEFA) punished the outspoken Portuguese on Friday for his sending off and verbal outburst following Madrid's Champions League semifinal first leg defeat to their archrivals last week.

"It's excessive," Valdano told Spanish television after Real's 6-2 thrashing of Sevilla at the Sanchez Pizjuan.

"Throughout the season there have been many coaches who have made some very hard comments, and the punishments were smaller."

Real have indicated they would appeal the decision but Valdano said the club had only spoken to UEFA through their legal team.

Mourinho, who had belittled Barca's achievements and suggested there was a refereeing conspiracy to favour the Catalan club, remained silent again leaving his No 2 Aitor Karanka to speak to the media after the match.

"I don't know when he's (Mourinho) going to come out (to speak)," Karanka said. "But as I said yesterday, when things become clearer and calm down a bit, and he sees why all this has happened, he'll come out again."

Cristiano Ronaldo scored four of Real's six goals, taking his league tally for the season to 33, two ahead of Barca's Lionel Messi.

Arsenal's title hopes ends with Stoke loss

Ryan Shawcross, the player whose tackle inflicted the injury.

As a result, despite Stoke's short time in the Premier League, these two sides have managed to build up plenty of history, with Wenger heavily critical of what he perceives as Stoke's overphysical style.

But the more relevant history related to Stoke's threat from set-pieces and Arsenal's tendency to concede soft goals.

Both were prevalent at the Britannia Stadium and contributed significantly to the result.

Their problems were mainly all of their own making, typified by the opening goal which was scored with far too much ease.

Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny had already flapped at one cross which Pennant hooked wide when he was left totally exposed by his defence in the 28th minute.

Andrey Arshavin's needless push on Pennant close to the •van Persie corner flag allowed the winger to clip over a free-kick and Jones, having evaded Johan Djourou far too easily, simply jogged in and let the ball hit him on the chest to divert it over the line.

The lack of effort required by the Trinidad and Tobago international to score against the league's third-placed side was embarrassing and Jones, presumably surprised by such a gift, did not even celebrate.

STOKE once again exposed Arsenal's soft underbelly with a deserved victory which finally extinguished the dying embers of the Gunners' outside chance of making a late run for the Barclays Premier League title.

Robin van Persie hit his 19th in his last 21 matches, the eighth time in succession he had scored away from home, with less than 10 minutes remaining only for Jon Walters to go straight down the other end and make it 3-1.

It was a defeat which put the top of the table beyond reach for Arsene Wenger's side, although in truth they had blown their chances of ended a six-year wait for a trophy several weeks ago.

Much of the pre-match focus had been on the return of midfielder Aaron Ramsey to the ground where he horrifically broke his leg in two places last season and a first meeting with

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

CITYBEATS THE NATION

E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

‘

25

To achieve a long lasting life span for all public utilities, especially roads, there is need for the people to stop all those activities that impact negatively on them as these affect the optimum utilisation of such facilities

’

‘Our major headache remains bad roads’ •Residents should stop actions that damage roads, says govt

W

ITH elections over, Lagos residents are reminding Governor Babatunde Fashola, of their wish

list.

Like before the elections, roads come tops in what the people want the government to address in the next 48 months.

Mr Michael Abiola, a commercial bus driver said the government should reciprocate the goodwill it enjoys among the people by ensuring that it agressively pursues road rehabilitation.

Abiola, like other residents, does not want the road repairs which began a few months ago to stop the because elections are over.

Another resident, Mr Anselem Ndoko, said he had to buy a ‘smaller’ car when it seems he would develop high blood pressure over how mechanics were allegedly milking him in the name of repairing his 2010 model of Prado Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), which was tortured by the bad state of Ajasa, off the Command Road in Ekoro area of Abule-Egba, where he lives.

Many of those living in Ifako-Ijaiye, Ayobo-Ipaja, Ikotun, Egbe, Egbeda, Idimu, Jankara, and other seedy communities as well as others, staying in Magodo, Ikeja GRA, Osborne, Ikoyi, VGC Lekki and the likes, are still bemoaning the state of roads in their neighbourhoods.

Though some residents observed that driving was becoming less difficult on many of the major roads shortly before the elections, as the Lagos State Public Works Corporation , had commenced the repair on some major roads in the city, their efforts have largely remained far insignificant compared to the huge demands of residents for better roads, a development which the opposition capitalised on to tar the Fashola administration.

While residents applauded the government for the initiative, they pleaded that more should be done in ensuring regular maintenance of the roads, especially as the rains are gradually setting in.

But while the government through the

•Residents are still coping with roads like this in the metropolis

By Yinka Aderibigbe

Ministry of Works (which is involved with new road construction) and the Public Works Corporation (which is spearheading the rehabilitation of existing roads in the metropolis), seem to have accepted the challenge and are bent on implementing the zero tolerance order from the governor, efforts are being made to ensure that residents too contribute their quota to ensuring the sustainability of the repairs presently ongoing on the roads.

An advocacy for residents to cultivate the right habits and imbibe maintenance culture in their use of public utilities, especially roads, was spearheaded by the public works Corporation.

The agency at the forum attended by artisans, traders, road-side mechanics, other officials of government, whose responsibilities impacted on the roads, and other corporate organisations, as well as security agencies observed that roads in the state would

‘Create trust fund for corps members’ A GROUP, Space for Change (S4C), has appealed to Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, to set up a security trust fund to ensure the provision of special security and welfare for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

The group commended Fashola for the dedication of his victory at the governorship poll to the corps members, killed during the post presidential election violence in some part of the North.

It also advised Fashola to work closely with the Federal Government and the NYSC authorities, to document and establish the identities of the Corps members.”

The group demanded adequate compensation for the bereaved families.

The group’s leader Miss Victoria Ibezim Ohaenri said the calls are directed at Fashola because “he is the only governor so far reported to have shown deep sympathy for the unjustifiable killing of corps members.

last longer, if all residents cultivate the right attitude to maintaining them.

The agency observed that to achieve a long lasting life span for all public utilities especially roads, there is need for the people to stop all those activities that impacts negatively on them as these affects the optimum utilisation of such facilities.

For the governor, these utilities would continue to guzzle scarce funds yearly, unless residents help in protecting them.

The Head of the Project Development Office of the agency, Ganiyu Aiyepe, said research by the agency has shown that roads in the state suffer mainly due to human actions. He said the state government had lost billions of Naira, to road damage in the recent years. This is outside the cost to human lives and property.

Aiyepe urged the forum, which had members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers' Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association

Tenants in new estates to pay levies in advance GENERAL Manager of the Lagos State New Towns Development Authority (NTDA) Adeyemi Isiba, has announced that prospective residents in new estate will henceforth pay capital development levies in advance.

NTDA is the state’s agency for developing satellite towns to decongest the Lagos metropolis.

Isiba said the development levies would enable to the authority provide infrastructure in the estate. “The levies are used to provide road networks, secondary and tertiary drainages and beautification of the environment among other things,” he said.

“We are trying to develop a new method where infrastructure will be funded by capital development levies from prospective residents, Isiba said.

of Nigerian (ACOMORAN), Ajeigboro and Tipper Drivers Association (ATDA), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), in attendance to do more, in protecting and preserving the roads and other public utilities.

He listed activities that damaged roads to include water reticulation activities by residents who want to tap into the Water mains by the state's water corporation, undue cutting of the roads by telecommunication companies pouring of petroleum products on the roads by mechanics dumping refuse in the drains, burning of tyres and other items on the roads and bad driving culture and poor road infrastructure.

He said most of the roads in the metropolis damaged as a result from the unguided and uncontrolled actions of road users and residents.

Picking an instance of discharging black

•SEE PAGE 26

Thugs disrupt sitting at Eredo Council SOME people suspected to be thugs, last Tuesday, disrupted the sitting of the legislative council of Eredo Local Council Development Area, Epe, Lagos State.

The thugs, according to eye witnesses, stormed the council secretariat, brandishing dangerous weapons and threatening to deal with anyone that tried to stop them.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the thugs had stormed the legislative chamber to prevent an alleged plan by the legislators to impeach the council Chairman Sabiu Adelaja-Omolaja.

The house leader, Mrs Raheedat Talabi, who confirmed the incident, said the chairman had written a letter suspending some council legislators. The legislators had invited the chairman to furnish them with a list of ongoing projects, both completed and ongoing, a demand the chairman has refused to honour.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

26

CITY BEATS ‘Our major headache remains bad roads’ •Continued from page 25 oil and diesel on the roads, a common practice prevalent among mechanics and drivers of articulated vehicles, Aiyepe said petroleum products, "have disintegrating effects on bitumen." This he said accounts for why asphalt easily disintegrates when it comes in contact with diesel or kerosene among others.

Also pointing out the damage arising from indiscriminate road, cutting Aiyepe said such cuttings were usually badly joined and culprits often leave the joints haphazardly with no consideration to the cost of such repair to the government.

He said: "Cutting the roads without necessary approval is a criminal offence and offenders might be prosecuted."

Dr. Ola Oresanya of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), listed the unbridled dumping of wastes along water ways and drainages as another major source of road damage in the metropolis.

He, therefore, urged restraint from residents dumping refuse and wastes on the roads as well as in the drain channels. According to him, the wastes naturally breed micro-organisms which eat up the roads, causing damages to same.

He said: "We admit it is the primary duty of LAWMA to evacuate refuse and waste, whether do-

mestic, medical or industrial, in all parts of the state. That is why we have mandated some private contractors to assist LAWMA in evacuating them. When these wastes are dumped on the roads however, micro-organisms would eat up the roads, causing collateral damage to them. People should put their refuse; on the waste cans we put on the roads, rather than dump them indiscriminately on the roads."

Citing the huge cost of repairs to the government, the LSPWC, Managing Director, Mr Gbenga Akintola, warned motorists in the state against driving on the walkways, median section and shoulders of the roads.

Akintola said the roads "are built with the taxpayers' money. The state government has been spending more on the road maintenance and repair. What it costs to repair the roads ought to have be allocated to constructing new ones. "It is not reasonable to continue with the trend. That is why we are seeking how residents can buy into the need to change their attitudes to public utility," he said.

He said as primary owners of the roads, residents have a responsibility greater than that of the government to maintain them, by ensuring that their actions and activities do not in any way arise in damaging them.

"The government has invested in

Church spends N11m on the poor VER 1,000 poor and needy persons who attended the free shoppers concert organised by the Global Harvest Church in Lagos got different goods and medications free.

The church said the event cost it about N11million.

The Senior Pastor of the Church, Pastor Victor Adeyemi, said the initiative was designed to give succour to the poor and needy in the society, stressing: “Our church’s stand is that the hungry must be fed and the naked covered.”

According to him, Easter celebration from the Biblical point of view, is not mainly for merrymaking, but giving a heart of compassion to the needy in the society.

He added that in the spirit of Easter, the church could not afford to see the poor go naked and the needy being frustrated without assisting them.

He enjoined the government to emulate Jesus Christ, saying: “Those who are leading us should lead us with compassion, it is high time that Nigerian leaders put aside greed and selfishness. Let them realise that if they don’t use our commonwealth well to develop the society. They are laying a foundation of problems not for themselves alone, but for their children and their grandchildren. ‘’Let us make Nigeria a better place to live. We believe that Nigeria has more resources to deploy for the betterment of the common man than it is doing

O

By Chuks Udo Okonta

now. It is disheartening that our leaders are Church not reaching the preaches common man. compassion From now, let our leaders lead with compassion and the fear of the Lord. And to Nigerians, let us live with hope and expectation. There is hope for Nigerians who trust in God irrespective of the situation and circumstances as long as they can connect with God through personal relation ship with Him,” he said.

Adeyemi noted that the church committed as much as alot of money to the purchase of goods which include clothing, food stuffs, beverages, educational materials and drugs.

“I am here with mixed feelings today. I am excited seeing people get some basic necessities and smiling home. I can hear them say thank you to members of Global Harvest who make things happen, though, all thanks is to God Almighty, and I know we can still do more.

“For these materials to go round, we have to give vouchers to people. We gave N2, 000 vouchers to individuals freely.

We are not selling it for N5, 000 to families. I wish we can do much more than that. I see several people shop here today; a large number of them are still on the queue while some are still at the gate trying to come in. I just wish we could do more.

•Montgomery Road Yaba, reconstructed by the goverment

reconstructing, rehabilitating and constructing both major and intracity roads in the last four years. The rehabilitation have manifested in different parts of the metropolis from Badagry to Epe, Lagos Island to Mainland and from Alimosho to Ikorodu axis of the state.”

Akintola said the government’s commitment to ensuring motorable roads across the state

should be seen in the rapid development of the Lagos Central Business District, the Apapa Central Business District and the Yaba Central Business District by constructing roads, which Special Adviser on Works and Infrastructure, Engr.

Ganiyu Johnson said; "were designed to boost economic and social activities."

He said the government is reso-

•Shoppers at the event.

“I wish I have the money. some multimillionaires in this country have. I wish the billionaires in Nigeria can do this every day because they can afford it. I am here with mixed feelings because my heart bleeds for the millions of people who go to bed hungry everyday, who have no good clothes to put on,”he said.

Meanwhile, within the two hours spent in the church by this reporter, people were troop-

lute in constructing new roads and rehabilitating old ones.

"Already, a total of 146 roads, of about 165 kilometres, had been constructed while 44 roads, totaling 77 kilometres, will be completed before the end of the quarter, while another 60 roads, totaling 129 kilometeres are in various stages of completion," Johnson added.

PHOTO: CHUKS UDO OKONTA

ing in for shopping. The most patronised section of the hall was the Food Items, while others such as clothing and educational materials was the last point of call.

A shopper, Mr Messiah Odigwu, a resident of Ikorodu community, said: “I never knew that such an initiative can emanate from any church. I am very grateful that I have a chance to partake. It was a friend that told

me in Ikorodu. I have to come so that I can see it myself. I never believe it can happen until I saw it myself. I wish more of things like this can be happening to alleviate poverty among Nigerians. People like me that need basic things of life are many outside. We see how our politicians and the few rich people are wasting our collective resources, but what can we do.

EMERGENCY LINES 1. Fire and Safety Services Control Room Phone Nos: 01-7944929; 080-33235892; 080-33235890; 08023321770; 080-56374036.

2. Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Lagos Zonal Command Phone No: 080-33706639; 01-7742771 Sector Commander Phone No: 080-34346168; 01-2881304

STATE AGENCIES

3. LASTMA Emergency Numbers: 080-75005411; 080-60152462 080-23111742; 080-29728371 080-23909364; 080-77551000 01-7904983

4. KAI Brigade Phone Nos: 080-23036632; 0805-5284914 Head office Phone Nos: 01-4703325; 01-7743026 5. Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Phone Nos: 070-55350249; 070-35068242 080-79279349; 080-63299264 070-55462708; 080-65154338

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

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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CITY BEATS FROM THE GRASSROOTS

Monarch lauds Lagos councils

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HE Ojora of Ijora land in Lagos State, Oba AbdulFatai Aromire, has said the performance of the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) are enough evidence that Lagos State needs more local governments to serve the people at the grassroots.

He also sought the continuation of peaceful co-existence among his subjects, even as he enjoined them to continue to co-operate with Governor Babatunde Fashola.

While speaking with CityBeats, the paramount ruler, who has spent 17 years on the throne, expressed joy that his domain has been witnessing steady progress under a peaceful atmosphere.

“Ours have been a success story.

There was a time my domain could only boast of one single road; now we have seven. And I must give kudos to the two-term administration of former governor of the state, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and now, Governor Babatunde Fashola . This is why I want my people to give his administration every possible support it deserves because he is a wonderful performer ,” he said.

Describing Fashola’s adminis-

by Dada Aladelokun

APAPA-IGANMU

tration as a model in true democratic governance, Oba Aromire urged every elected public office holder in the country to draw a cue from the governor who is commited to leaving his society better than he met it.

“Look around; visit every nook and cranny of this state, you will marvel at what is going on in terms of various projects by the state government. One can therefore see why the people have been paying taxes willingly.

There is no gainsaying the fact that Fashola is a blessing to this state and it is gratifying that the people paid him back with their votes in the last election. I’m sure our people won’t regret re-electing him,” he said.

Reflecting on the traditional institution, he described it as a vital institution that had been able to preserve the long-standing culture of moral rectitude, peace and unity among the people, noting that monarchs are indispensable administrators who do a lot to stabilise the society with their

‘

Look around; visit every nook and cranny of this state, you will marvel at what is going on in terms of various projects by the state government. One can, therefore, see why the people have been paying taxes willingly

’

God-given wisdom.

He said: “In my case, I feel more comfortable being in the midst of my people and they too always want to have me with them. In fact, I remember that for three times now, I have tried to travel out without success. In fact, each occasion, my people would always seize my passport because they wanted me in their midst at all times and I enjoy it because I live among my people. My feeling is their feeling and theirs are mine. We reason together on any issue of common interest and that has been keeping us going as one big united family.”

Rotary Club donates mosquito nets

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HE Chairman of IfakoIjaiye Local Government Area, Hon. Demola Doherty, has described the sweeping victory of the Action Congress of Nigeria’s victory at the polls, especially in the Southwest as a clarion call for service.

He said the party which has been known to offer the best of friuts of democracy to the people now has an opportunity to prove to doubting politicians that its achievements in places where they held sway is not a fluke.

Doherty stated this as part of his congratulatory message to all candidates of the party, especially the Lagos State Governor Mr Babatunde Fashola, the Deputy-Governor elect Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, and others who emerged victorious at the April poll in Lagos.

Doherty, while expressing profound gratitude to the residents of the council area for turning out in large numbers during the elections, assured them of the governor’s continued commitment towards providing good governance in the state.

In a statement, the council’s Information Officer, Mr Oladapo Okeniran, said the council chief, also called on residents to continue to cooperate with the government by paying their taxes and levies promptly as this remains the only way to ensure that they continue to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

Meanwhile, the council chief have charged the revenue staff of the council to redouble their efforts in improving the internally generated reve nue target set by the council.

He promised a handsome reward for any staff that exceeded the set target for the section.

He stated this at a two-day

ACN’s victory a call to service, says local govt chair

• Doherty

By Yinka Aderibigbe

IFAKO-IJAIYE training workshop with the theme: The new approach to revenue collection in the local government, held at Ostra Hotels and Halls, Alausa, Ikeja.

He said his administration will leave no stone unturned in achieving the set target, adding that necessary tools, including working equipment would be provided to enhance revenue collection in the area.

Participants at the seminar include key revenue officers drawn from both Iju and Ogba area offices of the council. The council also said the training will be continuous to further improve their effectiveness as, according to him, their success is critical to the success of the administration.

Council chief promises to upgrade roads

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•From left: Matron, Mrs Udoh, receiving the mosquito nets from Rotary Club’s President Adebisi. With them are Ben Calio and Secretary, Femi Sotunde.

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URSING mothers and expectant women, who use the Jakande Estate Health Centre, at Oke-Afa, in Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), went home smiling last Thursday, courtesy of the Rotary Club of Oke-Afa. The club gave them hundreds of insecticide -treated mosquito nets.

The donation was in furtherance of the club’s commitment to the eradication of malaria scourge, especially among expectant mothers.

Its President, Sadiq Adebisi, said the donation is“Part of the FourWay test of the club, and aimed at assisting pregnant women to stay healthy throughout their gestation period.”

He said the donation will minimise the exposure of pregnant women to malaria parasite from

By Duro Babayemi

EJIGBO bites arising from mosquitoes prevalent in the area.

He, therefore, counselled pregnant women to always use the nets as specified to ensure their effectiveness.

Adebisi, who blamed the prevalence of the scourge on several factors, among them dirty and filthy environment, stagnant waters, especially in drainage channels and other domestic containers urged the people to improve on their hygiene by ensuring regular clearing of their environment as well as ensuring that stagnant waters are covered before they become breeding places for mosquitoes.

“Mosquitoes not only breed in stagnant waters, they also breed inside dirty places and junks. That is why all junks must always be

thrown away before they become hosts to mosquitoes that could be breeding inside such cozy and humid crevices.”

Receiving the donations on behalf of the health centre, and nursing mothers, the Matron, Mrs Udoh thanked the club for the gesture and prayed for their continued support of the centre.

She urged other non-governmental organisations (NGO) or clubs to emulate Rotary Club, an organisation, she said, has always made itself available to the grassroots and the poor in the society.

She said since the government cannot do it alone, well-meaning members of the society as well as clubs with the milk of human kindness must play active roles in ensuring that life becomes more assured for the poor.

“There is no doubt that in doing this the poor people will have access to the good things of life,” Udoh said.

HE Chairman, Ayobo/ Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Alhaja Falilat Ajijola, has assured residents of the area that poor roads would be rehabilitated soon.

Mrs Ajijola ,who took over from Prince Bisi Yusuf, recently elected to the Lagos State House of Assembly, said the Ayobo/Ipaja people should expect the best from her administration.

She promised to consolidate on the achievements of her predecessor.

Addressing journalists in Lagos, she said her priority will be on the maintenance of existing roads in the council which have been in deplorable state, owing to the heavy rainfall last year.

She said she would begin a massive grading of the road before the rains set in this year to ameliorate the plight of the people.

“The present administration has a very short time to be in office since we are only here to complete the tenure of my predecessor. So, we will concentrate our efforts on making lives easy for our people by grading the roads and ensuring that our people have water at all times. We will sink more boreholes in a few communities before the expiration of our tenure,” she said.

On the proposed construction of Ayobo/Ipaja/Aiyetoro Road

by Governor Babatunde Fashola, Alhaja Ajijola said the governor has given his word on the project which she said would commence next month.

• Alhaja Ajijola

By Sunday Ogundugba

AYOBO/IPAJA “our major problem in the ‘We will focus council is the on roads main road from because Abesan gate to our tenure Ayetoro.Thank is short.’

God that Governor Fashola has promised to start work on the road. We know the governor is a man of his words. After our governor opens the road to Aiyetoro, the Ogun State governor would take it from Ayetoro to Sango. The road to Ayetoro is not motorable.

We believe that Senator Ibikunle Amosun, an ACN governor, would tare that stretch of the road,” she said.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

28

CITY BEATS FROM THE COURT

Expectant woman in the dock for N344,000 fraud 31-YEAR-OLD expectant housewife was last Tuesday charged before a Surulere Magistrates’ Court for allegedly defrauding a trader of goods worth N344,000.

Aishat Diallo is facing a two-count charge of fraud and stealing the commodities belonging to Mr Samuel Chibuzor, a trader.

The prosecutor, Sgt. Raji Hakeem told the court that the accused committed the offence on March 23, 2010 at No 7, Samuel Omotara St., Aguda, Surulere.

“The goods included 30

A

•The destroyed school premises

PHOTO: SUNDAY OGUNDUGBA

Residents seek establishment of police post R ESIDENTS of Ilara community, near Ikorodu, Lagos, have appealed to the InspectorGeneral of Police, Mr Hafiz Ringim, to establish a police post in the community to curb crime.

They also asked the police chief to intervene on the investigation of the mayhem that was perpetrated in the neighbourhood during the just held gubernatorial and House of Assembly polls.

According to them, some unknown thugs invaded the community when the counting of votes was going on and burnt the ballot papers because the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) was leading.

Even after the elections, many of them complained that some thugs sponsored by some politicians in the area are still walking the streets freely, despite repeated complaints to the police.

Chairman, Ilara Residents Association, Mr Owen Igiehon, who took CityBeats round the damaged properties of residents, said the community was no longer comfortable with the performance of the police.

He said some of the landlords fled the community during the elections as they received threats from some politicians in

By Sunday Ogundugba

the area because they stood for justice.

“We don’t want to live under the mercy of these miscreants. This is why we urge the IG to rise to the challenge by establishing a police station in this community.

A resident, Adelakun Adetunji, who lost two sheep during the elections, said the residents now live in fear because the thugs can strike at will.

Adetunji, who has lived in the area for two years, said politicians with their do-or-die mentality,have compounded the insecurity in the area .

Recounting the incident, Igiehon said: “After the close of election, the counting was going on when some miscreants entered our community at the Ilara Primary School. They came on two motorcycles; two on one and three on the other.

They burnt the ballot paper and fired gunshots sporadically which scared people away.

“I entered my car out of fear.

They pursued me on their motorcycles with guns one probably because I am a community leader and two from the outset

of this election, I have made my mind known that fairness must be allowed to take its course.

“We made it clear that we were going to stop ballot box snatching We made our point known before the election. But some people said it is their zone, saying they have control over the election matter in the community which it shouldn’t be. Two results had just been counted when they burnt the ballot papers on the table. “ We are law-abiding Nigerians living peacefully in this community. The government has not done anything for us in this community. Everything we have done has been through our efforts. We brought light to the community. Every home in this community has a borehole or well.There are so many neglected areas in the community such as the roads that will link Ibafo, on the Ibadan/Lagos Expressway and Ilara, but we beleive all these would be addressed by the government,”he said.

Arrest those behind North violence,govt told

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IERY Pastor, Olushola Ojo, Zonal Chairman of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Odi Ajaiye, Ogba, Lagos, has decried the continued killing of people in some parts of the North, urging President Goodluck Jonathan to fish out those behind the evil act.

The cleric, who expressed relief over the killing by the American military forces of Osama bin Laden, the world’s number one terrorist on Monday, however, alerted that there were many Osamas in the country, adding: “Now is the time for our rulers to stop kidding and toying with human lives that ought to be held sacred. They must decisively fish out and summarily deal with those wasting human lives in the North all in the name of religious bigotry.”

The Ilare-Ilesha, Osun State-born preacher fumed further: “Look back at the number of human lives that have been wasted in the North over the years; look at the innocent youth corps member, who were recently wasted in the

Pastor Ojo

By Dada Aladelokun

wake of the recent elections. How do we console the families whose sons were cut down in their prime? What do we say about the 65 churches and other helpless beings callously killed in the process? Must we fold our arms and allow Jos, Kaduna and Kano degenerate into havens of the devils?

“We must realise that God can’t be happy with the rate at which human blood is being mindlessly shed in this country, even without any provocation.

The government must now be sober. It must put all the security agencies and appa-

ratuses available to task to ensure that an end is put to this madness. Those behind these killings must be unmasked and punished.”

Ojo, who maintained that it would amount to unpardonable negligence if the government fails to realise that there is a network of evil forces behind the Boko Haram killings in the North, said the government would have failed totally if it failed to address the issue at the end of its tenure.

He, however, added: “As things are, I don’t pray that Nigeria divides, but if it is what will end the waste of human lives that we are witnessing in the country, so be it. It is time something decisive is done to ensure the sanctity of human lives in our country.”

He offered a clue for making Nigeria work again: “The greatness of our country depends of the readiness of us all to pray. We can get the leaders of our dream with prayers. We have to seek God’s face with prayers and loyalty to Him in deeds.”

‘

The prosecutor told the court that the accused failed to pay Chibuzor for the goods as agreed

’

bags of rice valued at N250,000; 11 gallons of groundnut oil worth N43,000 and six bags of garri worth N41,000, “ Hakeem said.

The prosecutor told the court that the accused failed to pay Chibuzor for the goods as agreed.

He said the offences contravened Sections 419 and 390 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Senior Magistrate, Mrs Aderemi Gbajumo, granted the accused N100,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till June 6 for further hearing.

Three arraigned over theft of N6m petroleum products

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HE police in Lagos, have arraigned three employees of a filling station in Ikorodu before the Igbosere Magistrates’ Court for allegedly defrauding their employer of fuel products worth N6 million.

The accused Dan Ukpebaba, 39, Oluwafemi Awoniya, 28, and Michael Odusina, 46, are standing trial on a six-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining by false pretence, stealing, receiving stolen items, forgery and presenting forged documents.

The prosecutor, Superintendent Effiong Asuquo,

told the court that the three accused allegedly committed the offence on July 30 at Total Petrol Station on Itokin Road, Ikorodu, Lagos.

Asuquo said Ukpebaba and Awoniya forged a bank draft and a local money purchase order to the prejudice of one Mrs Celestina Onyereri, their employer.

He said they used the forged documents to purchase 33,000 litres of diesel, valued at N3 million and 33,000 litres of kerosine worth N3 million.

The prosecutor alleged that the other accused received

the stolen They p r o d u c t s , defrauded knowing with full well forged that they were stolen. documents He said the alleged offence contravened Sections 390(9), 516, 427, 467, 467(2) and 468 of the Criminal Code Laws of Lagos State.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Magistrate, Mrs O. A. Ogunsanya, granted each of the accused N500,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till May 19 for mention.

Woman charged with assaulting ex-husband

A

woman, Opeyemi Fashina (22), was last week charged before a Somolu Magistrates’ Court for allegedly pouring a hot and dangerous liquid on her former husband, Mr Charles Ugochukwu.

Fashina, however, pleaded not guilty to the one count charge before Magistrate B.O. Osunsami.

The prosecutor, ASP. Akinlabi Adegoke, had submitted that Fashina poured the hot liquid, suspected to be an “obnoxious chemical”, on Ugochukwu

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on April 26.

She According to Adegoke, she bathed committed the offence at him with Odunsi Street, chemical Bariga, Lagos.

“The accused unlawfully did grievous bodily harm to the complainant by pouring him hot liquid solution suspected to be obnoxious chemical,’’ he said.

He told the court that the complainant had divorced the accused about four years ago and were blessed with a child.

The prosecutor said the

alleged offence contravened Sections 335 Cap 17, Vol. 2 of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.

Osunsanmi granted the accused bail for N200,000 and two sureties in like sum.

The court adjourned further hearing in the case till May 25.

A mild drama, however, occurred in the court when Fashina tore the uniform of a policeman while she was led to prison custody pending when she would perfect her bail conditions.

Couple agree to dissolve marriage

41-YEAR-OLD civil servant, Mr Afeez Ojedele, last Tuesday urged the Mushin Grade ‘A’ Customary Court to dissolve his 13year-old marriage to Risikat, as both of them had remarried.

Risikat, who concurred with the petitioner, also pleaded with the court to end the marriage, saying “My heart now belongs to somebody else.”

Ojedele had told the court that Risikat packed out of their matrimonial home in February 2005, following a misunderstanding between them.

“My wife had got married to another man six years ago. She took my second son to stay with my mother in-law and they denied me access to him.

“I remarried in December 2010 to fulfill my desire of having a successful family life,” Ojedele said.

He said his marriage to Risikat was blessed with two sons and prayed the court to grant him the custody of his younger son, who is 11 years old.

“I was jobless for many years. During this period, my wife neglected me

thinking that I would not achieve my goals”, Ojedele said.

Risikat informed the court that she had two other children from her present marriage.

The President of the court, Dr Abayomi Ipaye, ordered the petitioner to get his two sons into the same boarding school to enable them to know each other.

He adjourned the case till August 31 for further hearing and ordered the petitioner to pay Risikat N5,000 for the upkeep of their son.

DISPUTE

ACTIVITY

My pains, achievements, by council chief

Pensioners sue Alao-Akala

How foundation saved baby’s life

.

ASSESSMENT

Lagos 31

Oyo

33

Lagos

31

Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

MONDAY MAY 9, 2011

Page 29

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HE sombre visage and black attires spelt out the mood of over 70 women of the Niger Delta who revisited the killingofmembersoftheNational Youths Service Corps (NYSC) in the post-election violence that gripped the North. The women gathered at the Lagos office of the Ijaw Monitoring Group (IMG) to protest the killing of the corps members.

Whatwassupposedtobeapress briefing took on the character of a funeralservice.

The women wore long faces and carriedplacards.

The protesters who belong to different activism groups across the Niger-Delta, demanded that the perpetrators be brought to book. The women also wanted compensation to be paid to familiesofthedeceased.

The gathering was facilitated by the IMG, a notable Ijaw activism group.

The women sat mournfully, their hands on their chins. By their appearance, one could see that they were not in the mood for chitchats. There was no side-talk which is typical of such women gatherings; just silent whispers of pain and unuttered groaning for the families of the late corps members. Tears dripped from the eyesofsomeofthem.

“Indeed we are mourning the death of our children,” said Chief (Mrs) Patience Gbogbo, Deputy President of Ijaw Women LeadershipForum(IWLF).

“We, women from the Niger Delta region, are mourning our children along with the mothers across the nation who lost their childreninthecrisisthatbrokeout after the presidential election. It is painful.

“After carrying a child for nine months, to loose him at birth is painful not to talk of the one you suffered to put through school,

Some of the women in their sober mood

Niger Delta women protest corps members’ death ‘Killers should be brought to book’

By Evelyn Osagie

up to the higher institution, and when you thought your suffering was over, he is taken away from you just like that. It is indeed

painful. We feel their pains and are weeping with them. And this is our ownwayofshowingit,”shesaid.

Like Mrs Gbogbo, the President of the Southsouth Women Organisation (SSWO) Chief (Mrs) Vickie Djerwudu was also bitter.

O

Aregbesola fits a patient with glasses

NLY a few months in office, Osun State G o v e r n o r R a u f Aregbesola has given a clear indication has to where his administration is heading.

He has provided free treatment and surgery for people suffering different eye diseases, thus helping to tackle one of the state’s greatest health threats.

A report emanating from the office of the Advisor on African Programme Onchocerciasis Control (APOC) indicated that 1.6m people of the state’s 3.5m population are at risk of being affected by river blindness.

The free eye treatment and surgery will scale down the prevalence of the disease.

Ogbeni Aregbesola, working

Nigerians urged to love one another And she showed it, even though she may not have been directly affected.

“I know those who were affected,”shesaid.

This scenario, Mrs Djerwudu said, is what is playing out in the

homes of many who have lost their children. The corps members, accordingtoher,maywellbethelast survivinghopeoftheirfamilies.

Continued on Page 30

Osun provides free eye treatment, surgery From Soji Adeniyi, Osogbo

with expatriates and local professionals, personally slipped recommended eyeglasses on some of the patients.

To achieve the desired results, he set up a technical committee, of which the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Moji Oladipo was a principal member. She is working in collaboration with a non-partisan socio-cultural group, Oranmiyan Worldwide, headed by Prince Awofisayo.

Some experts and prominent eye

surgeons were invited from the United States and Canada to carry out the free treatment and surgery on many patients who had thronged the six designated centres across the state.

About 20,000 patients benefitted from the free screening, treatment and surgery while more than 1,000 surgeries were carried out by the team to remove cataracts and glaucoma which could have led to irreversible blindness in patients.

Over 5,000 were provided with free eyeglasses to correct their long and short sightedness aside from free medication. Continued on Page 30

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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Free eye treatment, surgery for Osun citizens •Continued from Page 29 Some of the beneficiaries, Mr. Tunji Olaegbon, Madam Victoria Taiwo, Mrs. Adenike Adepoju and Kasali Oloyede lauded the initiative, which they confirmed has helped them out of their near hopeless situations.

Olaegbon, who singularly commended the governor for the free screening, treatment and surgery, said: “This is the kind of government Nigerians need. A responsible government must be able to know the needs of the people and address them accordingly. If this kind of programme had not come at this time I would probably not have regained my sight again. I spent a huge amount of money visiting various eye clinics before.”

Kasali Oloyede, a retiree, said he and other beneficiaries would eternally remain grateful to God for using the Aregbesola administration to restore the people’s health.

Flagging off the programme at the State Hospital, Asubiaro in Osogbo, the state capital, Governor Aregbesola said that the programme was designed to restore eyesight and prevent blindness among the people of the state. He said many health problems are associated with the eye.

“This administration is moved to embark upon the programme out of our appreciation of how important the eyes are to the body.

Emphasizing that prevention is better than cure, Aregbesola said it is better to have your eyesight than to rely on efficient instruments.

Where these devices are not readily available, blind persons are sentenced to a lifetime of dependency on others and in most cases, zero economic productivity. The grimmest evidence of this is that blind persons often resort to begging.

“Research has shown that improved eyesight can increase the cognitive capacity of a student by more than 20 per cent. Clerical errors that can lead to unimaginable costs to firms and organisations can also be avoided or minimised with good eyesight. Health problems like nagging headache, insomnia and fever are sometimes caused by problems in the eyes.

The good news is that these can be avoided, reversed or repaired. Many people are going to discover for the first time what is the problem with their eyes and they are going to find solution,” he said.

The governor assured children, the aged,

•Ogbeni Aregbesola and a medical professional examine a patient mothers, pregnant and nursing mothers, in particular, whom he described as the most vulnerable in the society.

He said: “The most vulnerable groups in society, especially children, expectant mothers and the aged are going to have access to improved healthcare delivery in our state. We are going to improve on the hospitals by making them conducive for giving healthcare, stock them with the necessary drugs and equipment and make the care givers to be more caring and friendly. The Omoluabi spirit will also permeate the hospitals and other institutions for giving healthcare in the state.”

The governor said his government will make the provision of quality healthcare a priority as this is an integral part of his human development concept. He observed that it is when people are healthy that they can be happy and be productively engaged. He added that it has been discovered that an individual’s productivity can be improved by as much as 40 per

cent when a common ailment like malaria is properly treated and maintained that it is only healthy children that can learn at school. He said only a healthy family can contribute meaningfully to society while a weak and disease ravaged population cannot serve as vehicle for development.

In her opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Moji Oladipo noted that the vision of the present administration in the state is to restore healthy living in the populace and save them from avoidable deaths due to accidents, emergencies, poverty and inadequate health facilities.

Oladipo said that the programme will be carried out in the six administrative zones of the state . She also explained that the state government has secured the services of not less than 100 medical experts from overseas and those within Nigeria for the programme.

Oladipo noted that the free eye screening and treatment was part of the six point integral

action of the new administration headed by Rauf Aregbesola in the state adding that “the main objective is to restore healthy living to the entire populace of the state.”

“The state is currently facing challenges of citizens’ suffering from eye diseases and vision impairment among other health problems. Such eye problems include pterygium, cataracts, glaucoma and retroactive error. All these diseases lead to loss of sight if not promptly treated. She said that nobody would be made to pay for the services saying it is free for all.The Permanent Secretary therefore appealed to the citizens of the state to avail themselves the opportunity offered by the new administration.

“The vision of this present administration is particularly to restore healthy living to the populace of Osun State that is to save our people from avoidable deaths due to accident, emergencies, poverty and inadequate health facilities,” she said.

Niger Delta women protest corps members’ death •Continued from Page 29 “And now,” she said, “that that hope is dashed, what would happen to them. What would happen to the years of nurturing, the money spent, the love lost?”

The coordinator of the IMG, Comrade Joseph Evah said his group organised the briefing to protest the killings. Evah said the late corps members were heroes in their own rights, adding that they should be immortalised. He also called for the compensation to be made to the

•Mrs Oloye

families of the deceased.

“We are saying that compensations be paid to the families of the deceased without further delay and the murderers of the corps members must be prosecuted. We know that no compensation can bring back the lives of the dead but it is a step to appreciate that they are heroes who died in active service to the nation and should be given befitting honour by immortalising them. “ The group threatened to go to court if the government refuses to pay the affected families some form of compensation. He said: “However, if the president refuses to pay compensation to these families, we are going to file a suit directly against him to force him to pay. And we would also carry out demonstration against him. Nevertheless, there is no way the president will not sympathise with the families by paying them compensation for their loss.”

The women, Evah said, were also protesting the killings and calling for compensations as mothers. He said: “The women out there are mothers from the southsouth. And they are here to join their voices with the parents of the deceased. They are grieved by what is happening.”

Like their leaders, the women also spoke with one angry voice, expressing their solidarity with the families of the deceased. Although they were members of various groups from the Niger Delta region, they wore one set of clothing – black – depicting their oneness with their kind who has lost their children, condemning the vicious acts.

To show their discontent, they carried placards in that read thus: ‘What are the offences of the corpers?’, ‘Aaah! After training a child to university…’, ‘Only God can console you

•The women at the event parents of late corpers’, ‘Enough is Enough, says Lagos Ijaws’, ‘No more posting to the north’, ‘Ijaw mothers demand corpers to serve in their states’, among others.

They said: “We are not happy. In fact, we are angry. Our children are the hope of tomorrow: they are our future and if we tamper with our future now, what would become of our tomorrow? Pay the families adequate compensations.”

They called for the review of the NYSC scheme, saying people should be made to serve in their states. They also urged Nige-

rians to see themselves as one.

The Matron, Ijaw Christian Women Association, Mrs Deseye Oloye said: “We condemn in strong terms the killing of our children of our children who died serving under the NYSC in Bauchi and other parts of the north. We call on the federal government to immediately amend the laws concerning the NYSC scheme so as to allow this young people to serve in their state of origin. We also call on Nigerians to learn to love and see themselves as brothers and sisters and stop killing one another.”

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MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

My pains, achievements, by council chief HE neglect of Apapa, a Lagos State commercial hub, where the federal government makes the lion’s share of its income after oil, coupled with the inherent problems created by its agencies in the area, is a major pain in the neck of Apapa Local Government, the Council’s chairman, Ayodeji Joseph has said.

He told Newsextra that he still harbours some agonies despite his administration’s achievements on all fronts in less than three years in the saddle.

“What we are suffering here is enormous,” he said. “The federal government does not consult us before giving approval to the companies whose activities torture us here. Look at the traffic problems caused by tankers; look at the horrible state of the federal government roads here. The public does not know who owns any road; so, we had to work on them and get personnel to manage the attendant serious traffic problems. Once a truck breaks down, it causes instant chaos here. Apapa is being abandoned by the federal government. Look at the money being made here by the Customs. Rather than give back to the area, the federal government shuts its eyes against the nuisance being caused by its agencies’ activities. This must be addressed,” he lamented.

After a visit to Ijora Health Centre and the

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By Dada Aladelokun

well-equipped health post at Oluwole, the construction and rehabilitation of which had earned the council a groundswell of praises, Newsextra sought to know from Joseph if health care was his major area of concern.

Responding, he nodded in fulfilment and declared: “I’m not given to self-praise, but I make bold to say that there is not one area that we have not touched. Our thoughts and actions have been centred on creating improved welfare for our teeming people with our meagre income. We have constructed and rehabilitated no fewer than 15 roads alongside drains. Street lamps have been provided in some areas. Look at what we have done to our secretariat; it now compete with the office of some governors. Is it the public toilets at Ijora Oloye, Ijora Eledu and Marine Beach; the CDC (Community Development Council) Hall at Ijora Oloye and renovation and maintenance of Oba Ojora’s palace I will talk about, or the people-oriented programmes that we have been doing in the health and educational sectors?

Apart from our beautification and maintenance efforts at ensuring a congenial environment, the council procured a compactor for waste disposal as well as other equipment like trucks to keep the environment

I’m not given to self-praise, but I make bold to say that there is not one area that we have not touched. Our thoughts and actions have been centred on creating improved welfare for our teeming people with our meagre income

A

GIRL, Sumaya, with a hole in the heart has had the defect corrected, thanks to the intervention of a foundation.

Sumaya, an adorable girl, was born to Tajudeen Junaid, a civil servant and his wife, Muiba, a primary school teacher about five years ago. A third child, Sumaya at birth was a healthy 30 pounds baby, full of life and a source of unending joy to her mother and father.

Two weeks after she was born however, she took ill and had to be taken back to the hospital for treatment. Tests were carried out and nothing substantial was discovered to be wrong with baby Sumaya. She was treated for fever and her parents took her back home. Three weeks after she was taken back home, Sumaya broke down again with a very high fever coupled with laboured breathing. Again, she was taken to the hospital where more tests were carried out and yet no revelation as to what was wrong with the baby. Her parents had no choice but to take her back home and continued to manage the fever as best as they could.

The next four years of Sumaya’s young life became a harrowing one, characterised by continuous trips to various hospitals in a search for a permanent cure for her illness. A child that was supposed to be a bundle of joy became a source of grief.

During one of the family’s trips to the hospital, they were referred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) where the child was admitted and an echocardiogram scan was recommended. The scan later revealed that Sumaya had a hole in her heart. Thus began the family’s nightmare and the quest for a solution.

Sumaya was placed on drugs while the hospital monitored the baby’s progress. The doctors explained that there was a little chance the hole might close by itself, making surgery unnecessary. At that time, Sumaya was already six months old, and her parents were getting desperate and agitated over the poor girl’s plight.

For several more weeks, the family prayed and hoped that the hole in

healthy. You won’t see any hoodlum around here now because we have engaged them gainfully. One can go on and on and interestingly, a few organisations and community bodies have given us awards with letters of commendation. We are still working and we won’t rest on our oars.

The council boss, however, lamented that “most people are not actually aware of what we are doing and so, they are not readily disposed to giving us the credit because they would not believe that a mere council could do such things. Again, despite our accomplishments, there are still lots that we would have loved to do but for financial constraints; it is really very painful.”

He unveiled more of his heartache: “We are the grassroots people and a lot is expected from us. To put a standard road, it would cost good money, what we get monthly is not even enough to do one standard road. We need new revenue sharing formula that will give the local government nothing less than 30 per cent. We have tried to do our best with the paltry funds available and with the cooperation we get from the state government which we look up to as a model in good governance.

“What we have done so far has been the direct actualisation of my dream for the area.

Before I came on board, I was familiar with the problems on ground. Most of the places were always flooded; that we tackled promptly on assuming office. The students needed books, uniforms, transportation and in less than 100 days in office, we tackled these problems. In fact, we provided buses for pupils’ free ride. I actually did my research before I came in because we had to employ people who were competent to deliver these services.”

The present Babatunde Fashola-led administration in the state, he enthused, has been doing very well and thus setting a standard.

“Apapa is part of the Mega-City we are talking about and some roads were actually rehabilitated by the state government. The

•Ayodeji Joseph state government has actually helped us to put these roads in good shape and this has actually reflected in the massive support the state government has received from the electorate during the elections. I think the governor’s performance really helped the party because from the result shown so far, our party, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), is in total control of the state,” Joseph said.

Besides taking NewsExtra through the pictorial account of some of his administration’s projects on his laptop, he personally took led a brief visit to a few of the projects where residents heaped praises on him. However, he pledged: “We won’t relent until we succeed in setting an unbeatable standard for future administration in the local government.”

How foundation saved baby’s life My wife and I were under immense physical and psychological stress, so much so that my job suffered and we physically began to emaciate causing even more worry for our families. Some even began to wonder if there was more to Sumaya’s case

•The Junaids and their daughter

By Mimi Deke

Sumaya’s heart would close and heal without requiring surgery. The family was shattered when after three weeks of treatment and monitoring, the doctors broke the news to the family that Sumaya would require a major surgery for her to live.

For a middle level civil servant, whose income just barely meets the immediate needs of his family, the financial, economic and psychological trauma of managing a life-threatening ailment like a hole-in-theheart defect that require millions of naira to guarantee that his daughter lives can only be imagined. Such

was the fate that Tajudeen found himself in.

The family however unable to bear the thought of losing adorable Sumaya, launched into efforts to save her life. According to Mr. Junaid, the family’s first port of call was the Kanu Heart Foundation, where he met with executives of the foundation who asked him to register with the sum of N10, 000 and then list the names of notable figures in their home state, such as the state governor and his local government chairman to enable the Foundation to solicit for help for the girl. He said he was also told that there were many other similar cases awaiting

intervention, meaning therefore that Sumaya would have to join the very long list and wait her turn to be flown to India for surgery. “Hearing that was like sounding a bell of hopelessness for me and I wondered if my daughter would live long enough to take advantage of the expected assistance,” Junaid said.

On his return to LUTH, Junaid relayed his experience to one of the doctors who advised that rather than register with N10,000 and wait indefinitely, he should consider opening an account for Sumaya and soliciting for financial assistance from family, friends and corporate organizations. Taking his doctor’s advice,

Junaid got the medical reports of his daughter, made copies of them and began soliciting for financial support for her.

“While all this was going on, my wife and I were under immense physical and psychological stress, so much so that my job suffered and we physically began to emaciate causing even more worry for our families. Some even began to wonder if there was more to Sumaya’s case’, he said.

Aside from a lot of sympathies, the financial assistance from the public was not forthcoming. Along the line, Tajudeen was again advised by his doctor to visit the Lagos State Ministry of Health because they also gave support to cases like Sumaya’s.

Junaid visited the ministry and was asked to write an application and •Continued on Page 35

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Ademowo urges effective governance

D T • Ademowo

IOCESAN Bishop of Lagos,Anglican Communion Most Revd. Adebola Ademowo, has urged the various governors-elect to give effective governance to the people when they assume office.

Ademowo gave the charge while addressing a large gathering of Bishops, Chancellors and clergies at the 2nd session of the 31st Synod of the Lagos Diocese held at the Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa

Hoodlums destroy constituency projects S

OME political thugs have started destroying constituency projects in Oyo town. The projects which include motorised boreholes, and solar street lights, were provided by the Federal Government to the community, through joint efforts of both a member of the House of Representatives, Hon Kamil Akinlabi, and his counterpart in the Senate, Senator Ayo Adeseun.

Both the Federal lawmakers, who won the tickets on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had since decamped to the ACN. While Hon Akinlabi won the House of Representatives seat for a second term, Senator Ayo Adeseun secured the Senatorial seat ticket for Oyo Central Senatorial District.

Since their deflection, members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)had felt insulted and allegedly resulted to destroying the constituency projects.

Though efforts by Newsextra to contact Police Authorities not successful, competent Police sources hinted that no arrest has been made, as no formal report has been lodged.

Residents of the ancient town are worried about the development and therefore urged

Oyo

From Bode Durojaiye, Oyo

the law enforcement agencies prevent its reoccurrence.

to

Monarch seeks dividends of democracy

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HE new monarch of Mowe, a town in Ogun State, Alhaji Bashiru Olutunde Ojelade V11, has called on the governor-elect, Senator Ibikunle Amosun to fulfill his campaign promises.

Speaking during allocation of shops at Mowe main market, the monarch said: “The reason for allocating shops and spaces to traders is to allow for smooth business operation, create enabling environment for traders and help government reduce traffic logjam caused by illegal street traders” Baale Ojelade thanked God for having a female representative in the new Ogun State House of Assembly, hoping that her presence would bring dividends of democracy to the community.

Lagos

Council workers seek redress

By Miriam Ndikanwu

Square, Lagos.

He told the clergies to advise their respective governors to emulate the good work of the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN).

He said the new dispensation offers opportunity for the country to project new leaders that would bring dividends of democracy to the people.

The Bishop also challenged the citizens on the need to play their own part through prompt payment of taxes which he said, would assist the government in implementing its programme effectively.

On his part, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bendel and Bishop of Esan Diocese, Most Rev. Friday John Imaekhai, said seeking the kingdom of God and the interest of the masses should be the leaders’ priority before thinking of themselves or personal gains.

He advised them to be God-fearing and use the word of God as a tool to guide their steps while executing their duties.

Also, Most Revd. Ademowo, of Lagos Diocese urged Nigerians to be prayerful and move closer to God in all their endeavours. In his presentation, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), stressed the need for peaceful co-existence among the various religious groups.

Fashola, who described peace as the ultimate in achieving credible and sustainable democracy, said a nation that is not stable cannot provide the necessary amenities as their agenda would be on how to restore law and order.

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• Lagos State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Ben Akabueze (right), answering questions from pressmen during the 2011 Ministerial briefing of the ministry to commemorate the fourth year of the administration of Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre Alausa, Ikeja. With him is the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Bayo Sodade

Pensioners sue Alao-Akala WO weeks after an Ibadan high court ordered Governor Adebayo Alao-AKala to pay the severance allowance of retired Chief judges and acting chief judges in Oyo State, pensioners have dragged the governor to court over alleged non-payment of their arrears.

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Shamsudeen, others identify reasons for under-development

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INISTER of National Planning Dr Shamsudeen Usman has blamed the nation’s inability to achieve socioeconomic development on policy inconsistency and non-observanace of laws.

His views were shared by the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises(BPE),MsBolanle Onagoruwa and the Managing Director of Skye Bank Plc,Kehinde Durosinmi-etti.

They spoke in Lagos at the fifth edition of the Annual Law Series of the law firm of Perchstone and Graeys. They spoke on the topic: “Managing investment policy reforms in times of political transition.”They said there was the need for the enthronement of law and order, establishment of strong institutions and leadership commitment for the country to effectively carry throug its various economic

Lagos

By Eric Ikhilae

and political reforms processes.

Dr. Shamsudeen who observed that the nation started well shortly after Independence, said the country derailed along the line owing to lack of planning and inconsistency in policy formulation and implementation.

He balmed the derailment on government instability, resulting from unwarranted intervention in the nation’s political leadership by the military. He said the various reforms evolved and implemented by the post 1999 civilian governments were intended to reverse the regression in the nation’s economic growth.

•From left: District Superintendent, Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr Samuel Etumole; Manager, NRC, Mr John Dottie and Deputy Editor-in-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Dele Bodunde, during the NRC Manager’s visit to NAN in Lagos

Oyo From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

The retirees, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Oyo State branch dragged the governor to court particularly over their unpaid 142 per cent pension arrears.

Many of the senior citizens besieged the court premises yesterday.

They are asking the court to compel the governor to implement the six per cent and 15 per cent circular on pension increases.

When the case came up for mention at the State High Court 7, Ring Road, Ibadan , counsel to the government, Mrs. S. Muraina, pleaded with the court for time to enable her to respond to claims by the plaintiff.

But counsel to the pensioners, Mr. Yusuf Anikulapo, from the chambers of Alhaji Lasun Sanusi (SAN), pleaded for accelerated hearing of the matter.

Anikulapo said his plea was necessitated by the fact that many of the pensioners are dying daily as a result of the suffering they are undergoing due to the non-payment of their arrears and non-implementation of pension increases.

The presiding judge, Justice Eni Esan, later adjourned hearing to May 27, 2011 to allow the state government respond to the pensioners’ claims.

Briefly •From left: Project Manager, William Lioyds Technical Company Ltd,Mr Austin Nmbamalu, pointing at the areas dredged to the Managing Director, National Inland Water ways Authority (NIWA), during the boat ride to River Niger dredging sites in Lokoja . With them is the Chairman, Correspondents Chapel Abuja, Mr Timothy Elerewe.

Bola Ige Forum lauds ACN

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non-governmental organisation, Bola Ige Initiative Forum, has lauded the victory of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the South-West.It is an organisation out to promote the political ideologies and leadership qualities of the late Chief Bola Ige. The group praised the ACN leadership in Osun State, the National Working Committee of the party, the serving governors and governors-elect for their peaceful conduct during and after the last general elections.

In a statement issued and signed by the coordinator of the group, Mr Lekan Odediran, he commended the ACN current serving governors for endearing the party into the hearts of the people through their developmental and masses-oriented programmes, which led to the party’s massive support in their various states.

Odediran described the ACN landslide victory in the Southwest and the party’s remarkable performance in the Eastern and Northern parts of the country, as total rejection of the PDP-led government by the common people.

According to the statement, “the impressive performance of the party would excite the late Bola Ige in his grave. You

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Osun recalled that Ige was murdered at the time he resigned his ministerial job to concentrate on building the party.”

The group added that “the rampaging spirit of the late sage was felt everywhere throughout the election especially in the Southwest.”

While commending the Ige family, the group said; “we laud Ige family, especially Muyiwa Ige, for coming out of his political siddon look posture to help his good people of Esa-Oke and that of Ijesa North Federal Constituency out of the claws of anti-democratic elements in the area.”

The group, however, called on Muyiwa Ige to get actively involved in politics in order to sustain his father’s political dynasty, so as to protect and promote the good legacy his father left behind.

While commending Nigerians for trooping out to vote for a better future by voting the ACN at all levels, Odediran called on the elected officers to learn from the mistakes of their predecessors.

“We are also urging the people to join hands with the elected officers so as to bring the dividends of democracy to all and sundry. We are also appealing to the religious leaders and the traditional rulers to always inform their followers on the need for a peaceful co-existence among the people”.

Group praises peaceful election A Christian group, World Christian Council Association, has praised the peaceful conduct of the general elections.

In a statement in Lagos, the president of the group, Primate Ayoola Omongbehim said: “We need to give thanks to God because some top religious leaders predicted doom but God, in His mercy, changed their negative prophesies”. He prayed for continued peace and progress for the country.

NSCDC on red alert THE Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) in Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Soro, has said that officers and men of the command have been put on on red alert to ensure peaceful coexistence in the state.

Soro told reporters in Sokoto that already operational order on how to effectively manage the entire state had been mapped out. “ We have deployed well trained officers for intelligent gathering in and out of the metropolis on foot patrol to enhance security situation in our state,” he said.

He called for active participation from the stakeholders in ensuring peace, progress and political stability of the state. “ Sokoto State has been known as one of the peaceful states in the federation and all hands are geared toward sustaining the peaceful nature of the seat of the caliphate,”

BOUT 40 workers employed as casuals by the Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State under Peoples Democratic Party administration, have cried to Governor Kayode Fayemi for assistance. Their grouse: they have not been paid a dime for the past one year.

The affected council workers, who stormed governor’s office to press for the intervention of the state government, said the council’s Caretaker Chairman, Mr. Bamidele Daramola is already planning to terminate their appointments on insinuations that they were employed by a PDP government.

“We have come to appeal to our governor to kindly intervene in our case.

It is going to one year that we officially received our appointment letters and joined the local government as workers, but we have not been paid a kobo since then.

Speaking on their mission they said: “We are appealing to governor Kayode Fayemi to help us talk to Mr. Bamidele to pay the one-year arrears being owed and that he should not sack us as we are indigenes of this state”, they said.

The copies of appointment letters which bore the letterhead of the Ministry of Local Government and Culture, signed by one Mrs. T.Y. Afolabi on behalf of the Permanent Secretary and dated 15

Ekiti From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti.

March 2010 actually indicated that an official request was made by the ministry to recruit 40 workers for labour, sanitary and security roles.

Speaking to journalists during the protest at Governor’s Office in the capital, the workers, led by Messrs Amujo Emmanuel and Michael Ogundele, said they were being needlessly suffered by the council since their appointment.

The spokespersons disclosed that their appointments followed due process of the civil service and that the action of the council chief is contradictory to the position of the

governor that no worker would be unjustifiably sacked during his tenure.

Ogun West hails Amosun

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YETORO, the headquarters of Yewa North Local Government was agog recently as residents trooped out to celebrate the victory of the Ogun State governor-elect, Senator Ibikunle Amosun during the just concluded 2011 elections in the ancient city.

Speaking at the rally tagged, ‘Thank You Rally’, the newly elected Ogun State House of Assembly member, Prince Adekunbi Suraju, described the victory of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN as a victory for democracy and the rule of law.

•From left: INEC Administrative Secretary, Alhaji Aminu Bello, with the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Sen. Iliya Audu, inspecting sensitive materials for rescheduled state constituency elections of Misau and Ningi Local Government Areas of Bauchi State PHOTO: NAN

•Fayemi

Ogun He recounted the ordeal of the members of his party before the election for daring to support Amosun who hails from Ogun Central against Chief Tunji Olurin of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and Gboyega Isiaka of Peoples Party PPN who are from the Ogun West Senatorial District.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation to the good people of Ogun West for their unflinching support for our great party all these dark years especially during the electioneering campaigns that culminated in our victory.

“It has been a long tortuous journey, but we give glory to almighty God for seeing us through. On behalf of the leadership of the party I thank you as we move into the new era together and rebuild our state now firmly in the progressive hands,’ he assured.

In his own address, Engnr Abayomi Elegbede the organiser of the rally and the man widely regarded as the new leader of the Yewa people, reiterated the commitment of the party to rebuild Ogun State and restore the lost glory during the PDP rule.

He assured the people that the era of insecurity and unnecessary violence was over in the state.

He disabused the minds of the people on the burning issue of Yewa producing the governor of the state, saying the PPN and PDP arrangement to produce a Yewa governor failed because the arrangement was fraudulent.

“Let me assure you that the new era has come.

Ogun State has been liberated from the hands of marauders that have held us hostage for eight years. The mission to rebuild and restore has begun. Our new governor is a man of his word and very soon, the good work that you see in Lagos will begin here.

“On the issue of Yewa governor, don’t be deceived. When it is our time, things will be properly done”.

Youth council hails Nigerians

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HE National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter has greeted Nigerians for their resilience and commitment in returning power to the people.

A statement signed by NYCN Public Relations Officer, Hon Hakeem Ishola, hailed the masses for firmly resisting attempts to be intimidated during the polls.

The council, however, condemned in strong terms, incidence of ballot box snatching, underage voting, multiple voting, and other electoral irregularities and malpractice that characterise the elections.

The group urged INEC to investigate and resolve all pending cases.

It called on Federal Government to unravel the intrigues in the killings of innocent youth corps members and bring the perpetuators to book.

“We call on the government at all levels to do all that is necessary to guarantee the security of Nigerians youths wherever they are .

“The NYCN Lagos State Chapter commends the Lagos State government for the swift response at ensuring the safe return of the state indigenes among the corps members serving in the troubled parts of the North”.

• The Ijebu Diocesan Lay President, Methodist Church Nigeria Sir Bola Ogunsanwo (left) with Sir Olaniwun Ajayi at the Riye Archudiocesan First Year Anniversary celebrations hosted by the Remo Diocese at the Revd Mouor Memorial Cathedral Church, Sagamu

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MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

Women, girls’ education crucial to development

T

HE United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said that educating women and children is crucial to the development of any nation.

The organisation said this as the world celebrated Global Action Week on Education.

This year’s Global Action Week focused on Education for Women and Girls, as 53 per cent of all children out of school remain girls denied of the right to learn. Poverty, exploitation and armed conflict magnify the risk girls face even as they go to school, forcing many to stay home or drop out in fear of their safety. In countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, sexual violence and mass rape - a clear violation of their rights continues to terrify and severely harm women and girls, ultimately denying them access to education.

“If the Millennium Development Goals are to be achieved by the 2015 deadline, we must step up efforts to ensure that more girls and women have the opportunity to learn,” says Susan Durston, UNICEF’s Associate Director of Education. “We have ample evidence that investing in girls’ education yields high returns.”

Girls with access to education not only vastly improve their own lives but also bring change to their families, economies, and societies. Providing girls and women with a quality education is a highly effective tool to address poverty and fight disease.

A woman is more likely to get a job and earn a higher wage if she has a basic education: one percentage point increase in female education raises the average level of GDP by 0.37 percentage points. Every additional year of primary school boosts girls’ eventual wages by 10-20 per cent, and an extra year of secondary school by 15 - 25 per cent.

Access to education has increased over the last two decades. Today, more children, and girls in particular are in school than ever before. The number of out-of-school children

T

HE senator-elect representing Ogun West senatorial constituency, Senator Akinola Odunsi has said that chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Attairu Jega deserves an award for the free, fair and credible elections he has conducted for the nation.

Speaking at a rally tagged “Sweep out the bad old government/Appreciation to the electorate” at Sango Ota, Odunsi said there has not been an election as free and fair in Nigeria as the one conducted by Jega. He said the nation has to honour him for a job well done.

Odunsi, who contested on the platform of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) said

•UNICEF wants them better educated

If the Millennium Development Goals are to be achieved by the 2015 deadline, we must step up efforts to ensure that more girls and women have the opportunity to learn. We have ample evidence that investing in girls’ education yields high returns has decreased from 115 million to 67 million between 1999 and 2008, with notable increases in enrolment in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

Countries such as Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nepal, Tanzania and

Yemen have combined rapid increases in enrolment with improved gender equality.

As a result, between 1999 and 2008 the gender gap in the out-of-school population narrowed from 57 per cent to 53 per cent globally.

Senator-elect lauds Jega

By Abolaji Adebayo

the wind of political change in the country is due to the fact that people are now more enlightened politically and that they are tired of the bad old government. He said, however, that it is not peculiar to Nigeria but a worldwide phenomenon.

He commended Jega for conducting the elections without any serious incident, thus making the country proud in the comity of the nations. He said this feat would help to restore to Nigeria its giant

of Africa status which some think it no longer deserved before now.

He explained that the rally was to demonstrate how they are set to sweep out the old government and for to show appreciation to the electorate for voting for a better change in Ogun State.

Congratulating Odunsi on his victory at poll, the Olota of Ota, Oba Adetoro Alani Oyede and the Onilogbo of Ilogbo, Oba Samuel Olufemi Ojugbele told him to be up and doing and should develop the constituency in his capacity beyond the

UNICEF and its partners are working to overcome barriers preventing access to education through Back to School campaigns, school fee abolition, child-friendly schools, and early childhood education. The Back on Track programme works to bring educational opportunities during and after crises, including by establishing child-friendly spaces, which create an environment where children are protected from sexual exploitation and other kinds of abuse.

“Getting girls into school demands concerted action and political leadership. In addition, the rights and needs of girls also have to be addressed to ensure that they stay in school and receive a quality education,” Durston said. “Bolder steps must be taken on all fronts to ensure the successful transition from primary to secondary education and to make sure that girls can complete a full course of learning.”

level he met it.

Reassuring the people of the constituency of his manifesto, the Senator-elect said youth empowerment would be his priority. He said through his own personal survey of the area, he has observed that the devil has taken the hands of the majority of the youths because they were jobless. He therefore promised to create employment opportunities for the youths in the constituency.

As he was showing his appreciation, Odunsi appealed to the youths and other people of his constituency to support the new government and maintain the peaceful coexistence in the state.

Odunsi said the ACN in Ogun State is set to achieve what Fashola has achieved in Lagos State and even achieve beyond Fashola’s feat.

Odunsi said the wind of political change in the country is due to the fact that people are now more enlightened politically and that they are tired of the bad old government.

He said, however, that it is not peculiar to Nigeria but a worldwide phenomenon •From left: Oba Adetoro Alani Oyede, Olota of Ota and Oba Samuel Olufemi Ojugbele, Onilogbo of Ilogbo at the event

THE NATION

35

MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

•Continued from Page 31 attach copies of his daughter’s medical report after which a file was opened for him. The processing of the application reportedly went as far as the office of the commissioner before stalling.

“It was really traumatizing for me because at this time, I had been transferred to Abuja and was on the verge of taking my family down to Abuja. So it was not easy at all” said Junaid. “Consequently, I had to go back and give them my new address in Abuja so the ministry would be able to get in touch with me when my daughter’s case was finally approved for intervention or assistance. I waited endlessly for four years and nothing was ever heard of my application” he says.

While still waiting for something positive form the ministry, Junaid continued to share his problems with friends and relations who sympathized with him but none could not help him raise the required amount for Sumaya’s surgery in India. In 2010, he met a friend who advised him to write to MTN, requesting for assistance from the company. Not sure what would come out of it, Junaid who by then had lost hope of ever raising two million naira for Sumaya’s surgery wrote a letter to the MTN Foundation, requesting for financial assistance.

It was a surprised and happy Junaid who got a call from the Foundation one month after he had written the application that his letter had been seen and the Foundation was willing to pay for his daughters’ surgery in India. “At a time when I had given up hope, that phone call was like cold water over my hot body. I

How foundation saved baby’s life was overjoyed and thanked God for not neglecting me and my family and MTN for being a good corporate citizen”.

The Foundation’s support extended beyond the actual surgery and medication, to cover related expenses, such as the cost of obtaining passports and other travel documents, accommodation and feeding of the child and another person accompanying her. Although Junaid wanted his wife to travel with Sumaya, she was pregnant and even gave birth to their fourth child the very day the family went to collect their international passports from the immigration office. So Junaid had to accompany Sumaya to India.

“The first appointment we had at the embassy could not be kept as we arrived there late on account of Lagos’ chaotic traffic situation. I no longer live in Lagos, so I had stayed with a friend on the mainland and though we woke up early, before we got to the embassy, our time slot had passed and we had to make another appointment. The Foundation surprised us by accommodating us in a nice hotel on the island so we could keep our early morning appointment at the Indian embassy. We remained there till we travelled to India” said Junaid.

Recounting their experience and amazement at the level of seriousness dedication of the hospital personnel in India pick them up at the airport in India and took them straight to

This is a country where malaria kills people, especially women and children in their thousands and yet, senior government officials travel abroad with their families to receive the best of medical attention, while the masses die in droves due to lack of adequate medical care

the hospital, Wockhardt. A new series of tests were carried out on Sumaya to asses her exact condition. She was then slated for surgery.

The surgery took three hours but for Junaid, it was like three hundred hours because the wait seemed endless and he never knew what to expect. The surgery could have gone anyway. Junaid commended the attitude of the doctors and the nurses who according to him, exhibited genuine care and concern for each and every patient and relations. Three hours later, a doctor came out to announce the success of the surgery, after which Sumaya was placed in a recovery room and later, the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for full recovery.

For Junaid, as much as he is grateful to God for restoring his daughter back to health, he cannot fathom why a country like Nigeria that is the 7th largest oil producer in the world, cannot offer its citizenry, affordable healthcare in comparison to what is obtainable in India whose population almost three times that of Nigeria. That is why efforts by the private sector to impact on the lives of citizens in their various communities such as what the MTN Foundation has done should be commended.

Not only was a heavy financial and psychological burden lifted off him, Tajudeen will now be able to concentrate on his job and contribute his own quota to the growth of the country.

“This country is blessed with rich human and natural resources yet our people die because they cannot afford to go abroad for medical treatment. Our hospitals can at most be likened to mere sickbays or consulting centres and cannot boast of modern life-saving medical facilities. This is a country where malaria kills people, especially women and children in their thousands and yet, senior government officials travel abroad with their families to receive the best of medical attention, while the masses die in droves due to lack of adequate medical care.

“In India, with the ease with which the medical staff worked, they made such a major op-

eration like mending an open heart look as simple as an appendicitis operation. The hospital is fully equipped and almost everything is fully automated and computerized. Even my daughter’s room in the hospital, which was as big as a classroom, was fully computerized with internet connectivity. It was easy for me to send emails to Nigeria at no extra cost,” he said.

Now that Sumaya and her father are back to the country, Junaid affirms that he is very happy the problem is over because he can now concentrate fully on his job and take proper care of his family. He also prays that the coming election will bring in credible and visionary leaders who would improve the way things work in this country, especially the health sector.

Sumaya now fully restored back to health is already running around like kids of her age and eats very well. Because the surgery was very complete, she is not expected to return to India, neither is she placed on any form of medication but expectedly, her diet would be high in protein, vitamins and fibre and very low in carbohydrate. When asked if she would like to go back to India, she shook her head vigorously. In her little mind, India conjures the scary image of needles, oxygen masks and pain. She yet has no idea what her problem was and how it was solved. Someday, she would appreciate the efforts of her doting parents, the medical staff at the Indian Hospital who operated her and, most importantly, the MTN Foundation that made it all possible.

“I thank God for my daughter’s life and I thank the MTN Foundation for their role in saving her. May God continue to bless and reward them as they continue to assist poor families who are helpless when confronted with this sort of problems,” he said.

About 20 individuals, mostly children suffering from the hole-in-the-heart defect, have so far benefited from this sort of medical interventions by the MTN Foundation.

•Mimi Deke is a consultant with XLR8.

Ondo vet doctors in rabies awareness campaign

V

ETERINARIANS have marked this year’s Vet Day in Ondo with a call for people to wake up to the danger of rabies.

The day is marked every April 30 across the world.

The theme for this year celebration is “Rabies the strange, the mysterious and the Tragic”.

Delivering a lecture in Akure, the Ondo State Capital, the state Chairman of Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association [NVMA], Dr. Akingbade Felix Idowu said rabies is a preventable viral disease suffered by mammals and often transmitted through the bite of rabid animals.

According to him, the rabies virus infects the central nervous system. It ultimately causes disease in the brain and eventual death.

Dr. Idowu said early symptoms of rabies in people are similar to those of other illnesses such as fever, headache and general weakness as well as discomfort.

He disclosed that as the disease progresses, more specific symptoms appear and may include insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation and agitation, among other diseases.

The veterinary surgeon noted that human rabies could be eliminated by ensuring adequate animal vaccination and control.

He said the celebration of 2011world veterinary Day highlighted the impact of human and animal rabies, as well as the prevention of the disease. The vets also deliberated on ways of combating the disease in animals.

The chairman enthused that the state chapter serves the veterinary profession, veterinary medicine and science which promotes its rights, standards and competence.

Besides, the veterinary expert said the association also serves the societies at state level by promoting animal and human health through sustainable and human use, coupled with the management

•Chairman at the occasion, Prof. Albert Ilemobade addressing audience, while Dr. Ariye Folorunso (Right) and Dr. Felic Idowu Akingbade (state chairman) listen

Dr. Idowu said early symptoms of rabies in people are fever, headache and general weakness, adding that as the disease progresses, more specific symptoms appear which may include insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation and agitation, among other diseases From Damisi Ojo, Akure

of animals.

He pointed out that the major impact of rabies is felt in the rural areas of the country, where veterinary services are not

present, and prevention as well as their control are neglected.

The NVMA state chairman urged the government to provide a policy and action plan for prevention and control of this mysterious disease.

•Dr. Akingbade addresses the participants

36

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

37

CITY BEATS

CRIME

Army parades fake officer

A

MIDDLE-aged man, Mr Suleiman Bako, was last Tuesday paraded for allegedly impersonating as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Bako, an indigene of Adamawa State, was arrested on April 25 at a Military checkpoint in Owode, Ogun State, spotting the Nigerian Army Officer Number 4 dress and equivalent of an infantry officer.

Army Public Relations Officer of the Headquarters 9 Brigade, Ikeja, Major Olaolu Daudu, told reporters that the suspect was arrested driving a Toyota RAV 4 SUV with registration No PY 166 KJA. The vehicle, Daudu said, was illegally smuggled by Bako from Benin Republic Cotonou ,through Idi-Iroko border.

Dauda revealed the suspect had earlier been arrested on March 31, 2010 at Idi-Iroko for the same offence.

He said Bako was arrested then in ‘’full Military camouflage with the rank of Lt Col and Nigerian Army Corps of Supply Transport beret.”

The spokesman said the suspect was then driving a Honda Accord car with reg-

‘

The suspect was re-arrested during a routine check-up. The soldiers, he said, realised he could not answer simple questions posed to him on military operations, a development that alerted them

• • • •

’

•

By Sunday Oguntola

istration No NX 938 KJA. The suspect and vehicle, he revealed, were handed over to the Police then for prosecution.

He said the suspect was rearrested during a routine check-up. The soldiers, he said, realised he could not answer simple questions posed to him on military operations, a development that alerted them.

He later confessed to being fake, Daudu said, after interrogations, saying he will be handed over to the Police for prosecution again. The suspect, according to Daudu, sustained leg injuries while attempting to escape from military custody.

Daudu said the suspect made confessional state-

1.

• Bako

ments during interrogation which will be passed on to the police during prosecution.

Bako told reporters he was involved in smuggling used vehicles through the borders, saying he always spotted military uniform to facilitate easy passage.

He claimed he served seven month imprisonment after first arrest, saying he was forced into the illegal trade for pecuniary gains.

He pleaded for pardon, vowing not to try the trade again.

A

A

Be cautious when entering private vehicles that operate as taxis Avoid spending the night with free women In crowded bus stops, hold tight to your bags and pockets in order not to be robbed by pick pockets Do not leave your children with strangers, especially in religious places of worship.

Always secure your residence by locking up the place.

Do not allow a stranger to embrace you in the public as such person may be out to pick your wallet Mind how you leave your car with strangers as some may be robbers.

Be observant inside and outside bank premises in order not to be trailed by robbers.

Provide adequate security for cash in transit, including the use of police escort, also stop keeping money or valuables inside your car.

Help the police to help you. Let us join hands to rid our society of crime. It is our collective responsibility.

Report suspicious movement within your vicinity to the Police, never confront crimi nals as your life is very important, call the police on the following numbers: Police Control Room 1 emergency/distress call telephone numbers 07055350249, 07035068242, RRS Control 2 Alausa 08065154338, 07055462708, Control Room 3 SHQ: 08079279349, 08063299264 and 767 Toll free line.

MISSING PERSONS One Elizabeth Idowu ‘f’ aged 20yrs old about 5ft tall dark in complexion speaks Yoruba and Pigin languages fluently. If seen contact one Idowu ogungbemi ‘m’ of No. 1, Idowu Street, off Akanbisi Street, Magbon Badagry Expressway, Lagos or Morogbo police Station.

2.

One Imag Eden ‘m’ aged 23yrs old about 5ft tall fair in complexion speaks English and Calabar Languages fluently. If seen contact Eden Nse ‘m’ of No.9, Owodunmi Onipanu or Ilupeju Lagos Ilupeju Police Station.

3.

One Mosunmola Samson ‘f’ aged 9yrs old about 3ft tall black in complexion speaks English and Yoruba Languages fluently. If seen contact one Ola Makinde ‘m’ of No. 15, olaolu Street, Owutu Ikorodu Lagos or Owutu police Station.

4.

One Yusuf Bukola Bamidele ‘m’ aged 20yrs about 5ft tall, dark in complexion, speaks English and Yoruba Languages fluently. If seen contact one Alhaji Ahmed Mufutau ‘m’ of No. 630, abeokuta Expressway Abule Taylor Lagos or oke-Odo Police Station.

5.

One Fredrick Ada ‘m’ aged 33yrs about 5ft tall, dark in complexion, speaks idoma and English Languages fluently. If seen one Silas Ada Igboili ‘m’ of No. 33, Okunola Street Lagos or Dopemu Police Station.

1.

STOLEN VEHICLES One Toyota Corolla S.Car with Reg. No PM 358 KJA colour Blue with Chassis No JTDBR32E030017958. If seen contact any nearest Police station or Bariga Police Station.

2.

One Honda Accord (Bulldog) with Reg. No SX 199 AAA. Colour Grey with Chassis No. IHGCD5656SA144796 and Engine No. 22B121168998. If seen contact Surulere Police Station or call 08023095314 or 08023015137.

3.

One Toyota camry with Reg. No. PW 357 AAA. Colour Green with Chassis No.937188 and Engine No. 5778185. If seen contact any nearest Police Station or Agege police Station.

4.

One Mitsubushi Charisma with Reg. No. BR 25 FKJ. Colour Blue with Chassis No XMCLRDA280F022028 and Engine No. DY00594G43. If seen contact any nearest Police Station or Dopemu Police Station.

RECOVERED VEHICLES The Lagos State Police Command recovered 22 vehicles from June 30th to July 7, 2010, suspected to have be stolen from different locations in Lagos and the vehicles can be located at the station mentioned against each of the recovered vehicles as follows:-

•Charles Okon

By Titilayo Banjoko

members of the gang managed to escape the scene, but Charles was arrested.

It would be recalled that last month, the police command arrested one Ms Mary Onwuka, who was found with a bag containing all sorts of ammunition.

In a statement made available to the police, Ms Onwuka confessed she worked with a robbery gang as a courier and was on her way to deliver the ammunition to a community called Koko in Delta State for a robbery.

Charles confessed that Mrs Onwuka was a member of the gang.

Investigations showed that Ms Onwuka, apart from handling logistics for the gang, is Charles’ girlfriend.

Findings revealed that she was in charge of transporting ammunition and weaponry purchased by the gang.

The police nabbed her last month.

The Lagos State Police Command spokesman, DSP Samuel Jinadu, while commenting on the arrest, assured that the police would leave no stone unturned to apprehend the other members.

Man arraigned for injuring victim

CART pusher, John Apaju, was last Wednesday arraigned for allegedly stabbing a man on the back with a broken bottle, injuring his spinal cord in the process.

Apaju, 35, is standing trial before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos on a one-count charge of assault.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The News Agency of Ni-

• • • • • •

Police nab suspected robber 32 YEAR-OLD man, Charles Okon, an alleged leader of a notorious armed robbery gang, has been apprehended by the police in Lagos.

He met his waterloo after a successful raid into the Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Aguda area of Surulere, Lagos.

CityBeats gathered that Charles and his gang engaged the services of a dismissed security guard of the church, who disclosed information that aided the robbery.

The robbers, who stormed the church on April 27, at about 1am, made away with N 1.5 million, four laptop computers and five mobile phones, among other valuables.

They allegedly scared the parishioners with their rifles. According to police source, they headed for their hideout in the Tin Can Area of Apapa, Lagos, where the loot was planned to be shared.

They, however, ran out of luck as MOPOL 22 police operatives, who had by this time got wind of the operation, arrived at the scene and swung into action to apprehend the suspects.

The gang engaged the police in a gun duel. Three

F THE COURTS SROM ECURITY TIPS

geria (NAN) reports that the court was moved visibly when the victim, Mr Musa Hamma, was brought in, aided by two persons.

The prosecutor, Cpl. Daniel Ighodalo, alleged that Apaju on May 1, at the New Market area in Lekki, stabbed Hamma many times with a broken bottle, after they had a disagreement.

The Magistrate, Mrs A.O. Layinka, apparently moved by Hamma's condition overruled an appli-

cation by the d e f e n c e Cart counsel, Mr C o l l i n s pusher Ozemhoya, that the par- injures ties were man ready for an out-of-court settlement.

Layinka granted the accused bail for N100,000, with two sureties in like sum, and adjourned the case till May 25 for further hearing.

S/NO NAMES OF VEHICLE

REG. NO

COLOUR

LOCATION

1.

NISSAN SUNNY

LB 321 AAA

GREY

IDIMU

2.

TOYOTA CAMRY

HS 618 EKY

BLACK

OGUDU

3.

TOYTOTA CAMRY

FP 17 EKY

ASH

AREA ‘A’

4.

V/WAGEN FARAGON

UNREG.

LSCC

IDIMU

5.

FORD RANGER

ZR 819 FKJ

ASH

BARIGA

6.

V/WAGEN GOLF

BW 526 MUS

ASH

BARIGA

7.

HONDA ELANTRA

EQ 496 APP

AHS

DENTON

8.

V/WAGEN TOUREG

HD 702 EKY

ASH

OKE-ODO

9.

TOYOTA CAMRY

MX 640 AAA

BLUE

ALAGBADO

10.

ACURA LEGEND

AV 534 ABC

D/GREEN

OGBA

11.

V/WAGEN

XV 03 JJJ

LSCC

AREA ‘F’

12.

HONDA PILOT

KJ 492 EKY

GREEN

RRS HQTR

13.

TOYOTA 4 RUNNER

FT 92 LND

ASH

ALAPERE

14.

M/BENZ V/BOOT

BD 313 GGE

ASH

SATELLITE

15.

NISSAN SUNNY

NJ 998 KJA

ASH

IKORODO

16.

HYUNDAI SONATA

KM 993 AAA

RED

IKOTUN

17.

TOYOTA HIACE

XP 441 LND

LSCC

DENTON

18.

NISSAN PATHFINDER

DL 182 GGE

RED

MAROKO

19.

TOYOTA SIENNA

HV 972 EKY

GREEN

SHQ

20.

NISSAN TUDA

BJ 545 BDG

ASH

SEME

21.

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER

A.O. ST

BLACK

IKEJA

22.

TOYOTA CAMRY

PH 402 KJA

BLACK

ITIRE

23.

HONDA ODDYSE

JC 818 EKY

GOLD

SURULERE

24.

TOYOTA SPOT VAN

GJ 971 ABC

WHITE

ALAKARA

25.

RANGE ROVER JEEP

DF 670 APP

L/GREEN

ILUPEJU

26.

HONDA ACCORD

FA 427 LND

GREEN

ALADE

27.

TOYOTA HIACE

XS 758 SMK

G/YELLOW

IMOTA

28.

HYUNDAI BUS XA 675 EHM WHITE IGANDO Members of the public who have claims to the recovered vehicles should check at the police station mentioned against each recovered vehicles with original documents.

Claimants should endeavour to check the engine numbers as the original registration numbers may have been tampered with.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

38

CITY BEATS Cleric charges on parental upgringing L

THE President of Child and World Foundation, Rev Gideon Akinremi, has urged parents to nurture their children in the fear of the Lord to curb the spate of youth violence in the country.

He said the youthful age is the best for parents to train their children to become responsible citizens.

Akinremi spoke during a threeday revival on children in Lagos. It was organised by the foundation in conjunction with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

The revival with the theme Catch them young, according to him, was aimed at guiding the youth to be disciplined and to emulate the virtues of Christ.

The programme, which featured prayer session, attracted a large crowd of teenagers and youths.

Akinremi, who condemned youthful violence across the country, said Non-Government Organisations, government and other stakeholders should rise up to the challenges of the youth, to ameliorate the situation.

He restated the foundation’s commitment to child development in Nigeria, saying all hands must be on deck to nurture the youths in the right way because they are the leaders of tomorrow.

“The rate of youthful crime in the nation is worrisome. This is why stakeholders in children care and education be more responsive to the worrisome situation. Children need to be given the necessary direction that would make them the anticipated good leaders of tomorrow, “ he said.

Market women receive free dental care ABOUT 50 market women benefited from a free dental health care programme held at the Adarinijo market in Obanikoro Lagos.

It was organised by Chienwero Obianuju, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, serving at the Gbagada Comprehensive Junior High School in Lagos.

It was organised in conjunction with dentists who came with a mobile clinic.

Mrs Obianuju said the event was initiated to create awareness on the need for dental care, an aspect of health care which many people neglect.

“I chose this market because I believe that market women were always seen to be busy and would rarely go to see the dentist,” she said.

Tunde Banjo, a dentist,who gave a talk at the event, said the importance of caring for the teeth could not be over-emphasised.

He said most people do not see the need to go to the dentist because they lack awareness on the importance of having healthy teeth.

EOPLAST Industry limited has rewarded 20 distributors in Lagos State for their performances.

The distributors, who were mainly market women in Lagos, got a cheque of N200, 000 for meeting the company’s target for hardworking distributors.

According to Leoplast General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Mr Theo Williams, the initiative was introduced to enhance the performance of its distributors and to boost its customer service. He said the beneficiaries were selected based on their performance in the market for a specific period.

Williams said the company would continue to support its customers, saying more compensation package would soon be introduced.

“We called a number of our customers to reward them for their efforts in selling the product that we manufacture. As a leading company in the production of plastics, we are rewarding our customers because we owe them that duty. We set a criteria for the reward; that any customer who makes a certain amount of purchase within a set period would get N200,000 reward. After thorough monitoring, about 20 women fell within our target. Each of them goes home with a N200, 000 cheque.

“We are encouraging people to

Firm rewards market women

•Williams presenting a cheque to a beneficiary at the event

By Sunday Ogundugba

achieve success in marketing as well as to boost our customer service. With improved performance, we have other rewarding packages for them. We are determined not to let our customers and we

S

the money would help them to cater for other personal needs.

“We appreciate Leoplast for the money as it has shown that they are concerned about the welfare of their distributors. This would also help us to meet other personal needs,” she said.

‘Give Christians more visibility in political appointments’

C

ONCERNED about the poor rating of many local government chairmen in the state, former Chairman of Mushin Local Government Area, Apostle Babatunde Odele Pawpaw, has called for more vigilance to ensure the council bosses deliver on their promises to the grassroots.

He also urged the re-elected Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, to appoint advisers to monitot the local government chairmen Odele, who observed that their perceived non-performance could affect the goodwill the governor enjoys in the state if not checked, said maintaining a watch on the council chiefs would ensure that they sit up and deliver the goodies of governance to the people.

“In the next four years the governor must ensure that these local government chairmen are monitored to ensure that they deliver on their campaign promises. I will advise that the governor appoint some people to supervise these chairmen and ensure that they work for the people, especially in roads and provision of functional health care centres in their domains.

These people so appointed should also be empowered to pass their reports not only to the governor, but also to the party chairman and also the House of Assembly for appro-

•Odele

By Yinka Aderibigbe

priate sanction where such council chiefs remain recalcitrant,” Odele said.

Odele spoke at the get together organised by the Patriotic Christian Leaders Association, (PCLA), where other Christian leaders urged the state governor to redress the perceived neglect of Christians in public offices in the

Speaker hails Assembly staff PEAKER, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has showered encomiums on members of staff of the Assembly for the major role they played during the just-concluded elections.

Ikuforiji disclosed this at the staff forum held at the Assembly complex.

He said: “I want to thank members of staff for being there for me during election. Some staff who registered in Ikeja slept in the Assembly complex to cast their votes for me.”

The Speaker also promised the staff that he would continue to do

would continue to do our best to enhance their productivity and satisfaction. We believe in partnership in profit.

Mrs Folake Aroyewun, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, praised the company for rewarding the distributors. She said

By Oziegbe Okoeki

his best for them and Lagosians, promising not to let them down.

On training of staff, Ikuforiji promised that regular training for staff and welfare packages would be his priority in the next Assembly.

According to him, “Without the support of staff of Assembly, there is little the legislators can achieve in the legislative business.”

He, therefore, pleaded for forgiveness among the staff, saying that whoever he had offended should forgive him. He also promised that adequate representation

of staff would be made.

Ikuforiji said he would make himself available for regular interactive meeting with the staff.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary/Clerk of the House, Mr Taiwo Olatunji, while thanking staff for the assistance rendered during his tenure as Permanent Secretary/Clerk of the House announced to the staff that he would proceed on retirement in August 2011.

The Clerk, however, informed staff to carry their civil responsibility at all times without fear or favour.

state.

The celebration was held at the Salem Church of Aladura, in Ilupeju. The group had gathered to celebrate the electoral victory of the Governor Mr Babatunde Fashola.

Odele called on thes governor to see his victory as the culmination of fervent prayers by all residents both Christians and Muslims for a peaceful conduct of the election.

The President of the group, Dr Mrs Funmilayo AkintoyeBuraimo, said the gesture was to thank the Christian leaders who had fasted and prayed for

‘

the victory of the governor.

Akintoye, who is the Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religious Affairs, said: “This celebration is to show the appreciation of the governor to all these Christian leaders, who stood by him in prayers and fasting - praying for peace to reign during the election. We all fasted and prayed that God should give our governor a resounding victory and we are showing our appreciation to God for making us all an instrument for the kind of change we are now witnessing in the state.”

With his re-election, AkintoyeBuriamo said Christians should “expect a brighter rewarding future, a future that would see the state moving on ahead of its peers in the delivery of the dividends of democracy to the people.”

Hon Jimi Sadiku, a patron of the group from Epe, however, called on the newly re-elected governor to do more for the Christian electorates this time round.

He said: “Chrstians need to be more honoured with positions.

Not only have we been members of political parties since the First Republic, we have always been with the progressives and we are not happy that our bloc is being jettisoned. In the last four years for instance, virtually only the spare offices are slated for Christians. Even the numbers of Christians in the cabinet are few. These are issues we would be happy to see that Governor Fashola redresses.”

Christians need to be more honoured with positions. Not only have we been members of political parties since the First Republic, we have always been with the progressives and we are not happy that our bloc is being jettisoned.

In the last four years for instance, virtually only the spare offices are slated for Christians

’

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

CITY BEATS

Doctors urged to plan for retirement

‘

The best time to start planning for the future is the first day a worker begins work...

Retirement is the reason we work.

If you don’t plan, you may not be able to provide for yourself as you live into your 70s and 80s

‘

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EDICAL doctors have been urged to plan for their retirement while they are still active.

The Managing Director of LeadWay Pensure, Mrs Aderonke Adedeji, gave the charge at the biannual doctors’ forum in Lagos.

The event sponsored by a Pathology Service Provider and Medical Diagnosis Laboratory, PathCare and Mopheth was held at Teraculture, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Adedeji, who spoke on Planning for Retirement: What doctors should know, enjoined them to have a retirement plan.

According to her, most people including doctors don’t inculcate the habit of preparing for the future, until they are close to retirement.

This, she said, put pressure on them because they had left issues concerning their retirement to chance and had nothing to fall back on.

“Retirement is the reason we work. If you don’t plan, you may not be able to provide for yourself as you live into your 70s and 80s,” she said.

Adedeji said workers between 20 and 30 enjoy financial independence because of relative lack of responsibility, adding that they are likely to pay for their exuberance if care is not taken. “The best time to start planning for the future is the first day a worker begins work,” she said.

Also at the forum, doctors in various fields of speciality, were taught new methods of treating patient.

This, the organisers believed, would keep the medical experts abreast of new technologies in medicine to ensure patient care.

The forum brings foreign and locally-based doctors, who are versed in cutting edge medical practice together and also provide them the opportunity to share this knowledge with their Nigerian counterparts.

According to a Consultant Urological at the Royal Free Hospital, London, Dr Leye Ajayi, male

39

•From left: Ajayi, Managing Director, PathCare, Dr Pamela Ajayi, Adedeji and Jawa at the forum.

By Wale Adepoju

sexual dysfunction is on the rise due to psychogenic and organic factors.

Ajayi said some dysfunctions are psychogenic due to pressure of work and stress while organic is because of surgery, trauma among others.

He said male sexual dysfunction is burdensome, adding that it is an indication that cardiac diseases beckons. “Hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol may arise from erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is the inability to attain or maintain penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual function,” he said.

Ajayi spoke on an update in the contemporary management of

male sexual dysfunction.

He said sexual dysfunction is not about procreation alone, adding that frequency of intercourse is a significant predicator of longevity in men. “Early cessation of sex associated with premature death.”

Ajayi said many men find it difficult to see their doctors over erectile dysfunction, adding that men who have ED need to be treated for the disease, to prevent coming down with any of the cardiovascu-

Firm unveils customer acquisition, retention solution

S

PNS Consulting has introduced customer acquisition and retention solution aimed at helping clients effectively to manage their customers. The solution

Taxi drivers congratulate Tinubu, Fashola

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HE Lagos State Taxi Drivers and Cab Operators Association (LASTDCOA) has congratulated Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) and other elected candidates of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state on their victory in the last month’s general election.

The association also commended Prof. Attahiru Jega, chairman Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the successful conduct of the election.

Dr. Lateef Oseni, the President/ Chief Executive Officer and Prince Tajudeen Adetoro, the General Secretary of the association on the behalf of the members of the association gave the commendation and congratulatory message while speaking with The Nation on the general election.

Dr. Oseni said: ‘‘The just-concluded general election that gave Action Congress on Nigeria (ACN) victory in the southwest is

• Commends Jega on conduct of the poll a true reflection that the late Pa. Obafemi Awolowo’s legacy is still living and this has brought the people of Southwest back to where they belong to. We thanked God for making this possible and this we make other southwest states that are now ACN states witness and enjoy what the Lagosians have been enjoying for the past four years under the leadership of Governor Fashola. ‘‘I congratulate the governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Fashola, his deputy-elect, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, all the ACN governors in the southwest and other elected members of the party. ‘‘I also congratulate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is the leader of the party for steadfastness and the victory of the party in the just-concluded general election.’’

Oseni commended other con-

lar disease.

“A man with ED and no cardiac symptoms is a cardiac patient until proven,” he said.

Dr Zabah Jawa of the Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging at the National Hospital, Abuja, said, Nuclear Medicine is useful in the care of patients with cancer.

According to him, about 95 per cent of what experts do with nuclear agents is to make early diagnosis of cancer and to treat cer-

testants in the election for congratulating the winners and advised them to join hands and work with the Fashola-led administration in achieving the Lagos that every one is dreaming of.

On his part, Prince Adetoro, the General Secretary of the association, said with successful conduct of the last election by Jega-led INEC. According to him, ‘‘nobody ever believes that Prof. Jega could conduct a free and fair election, but he did. The election was adjudged to be credible by international communities. We thank God for the wisdom he used in conducting the election. ‘‘I also congratulate the Lagos State governor and others who won under the platform of ACN. It is a new dawn.’’

The taxi drivers’ chiefs said with the re-election of Governor Fashola, the Lagosians would experience a new improved taxi operation in the state.

By Collins Nweze

is a blend of sales and marketing process that help users in areas of weaknesses. It starts with a review of customers’database and finding out what suits them better. “Through this solution, a firm’s sale/marketing process flows are improved to meet set targets, Managing Director, SPNS Consulting, Debo Adebayo, said.

According to him, customer acquisition and retention strategies are critically evaluated to ensure conformity with industry standards.

He said the solution was designed to help businesses apply international best standards in addressing clients’requests.

These, he explained, always lead to the achievement of the set business turnover and profitability goals while lowering costs of operations.

When fully implemented, the product improves turnover, profitability and marketing processes by at least 15 per cent in three months.

The firm’s Manpower & Operational Process Optimizer Solution is also a blend of process improvement and manpower plan reviews.

With this product, a firm’s operational processes and procedures

Group campaigns against smoking of Indian Hemp GROUP of youths under the aegis of AjeromiIfelodun Community Network in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State has kicked against the indiscriminate smoking of Indian hemp in the council area.

At a sensitisation campaign, the group led by Comrade Edward Ndukwe went through major streets of the council area to make

A

By Kunle Akinrinade

a case against the vice.

The campaign took them to the council secretariat where the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Toyin Amusa, commended the initiative, adding that the council administration will partner with the group to curb the menace of drug abuse in the council area.

tain specific cancer.

He said it is also used as followup with patients who are on treatment with various forms of cancer.

On Molecular Imaging, Jawa said it can be used to give diagnosis at an early stage and to ensure if a patient is predisposed even before he comes down with cancer.

He enjoined the people to ensure healthy living because most of the cancers that people come down with are associated with their lifestyle.

Jawa said people should look into what they eat and drink and their environmental factors plus medical attention when sick would ensure long life.

He said:”The way young people smoke hemp and other hard drugs is quite worrisome in this part of Lagos and that is why the council area will do everything to discourage our youths from the habit. To this end, we are ready to partner with you on this project.”

The group also visited the Ajeromi Police Station where the Divisional Police Officer, Mr Abayomi Agbana, said his division will continue to

ensure that hemp smokers and sellers have no hiding place in the community.

Comrade Ndukwe said: “We are out to curtail smoking of cannabis and illicit use of hard drugs in this community because there is a correlation between hard drugs and crime. Hence, we cannot throw away our face and watch the community degenerate into a lawless community.”

•Adebayo

are set out using the best process improvements tools that aid improvements in key areas necessary.

“Through this solution operational flows are streamlined to reduce cost from possible areas while the quality of your output is still highly ensured. Also, the manpower is put to the best use to guide against job duplication hence you experience cost reduction. Below are some of the project focus and objectives,” he said.

The firm’s Employee Performance Appraisal Solution has also been developed to aid management and employee performance appraisal systems. The product helps in reviewing business goals, objective and performance target of the company in line with the business growth pattern of the industry.

“Through this solution your productivity level shall appreciate on a steady and continuous basis until you the ceiling point of your entire manpower capacity. Also, operational obstacles to achievement of the full capacity utilization level shall be identified and taken care off along the line of this solution deployment,” he said.

MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

40

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “I urge both the public and private sector to take every step to ensure that housing for the average Nigerian becomes a reality. It is our responsibility. It is our duty.”

CITYBEATS

Former Lagos State Governor Alhaji Leteef Jakande at the 11th Lagos Housing Fair last Tuesday.

Customs officer wins bank’s jackpot

‘

•To earn N100,000 monthly for next 20 years

I opened the account following the account officer's advice. That decision has made me a winner of the prize money. Right now I am notthe only person that banks with the bank. My son who is studying at Federal University of Technology, Owerri and my brother are also customers of Diamond Bank"

’

“T

HIS prize is a pleasant surprise to me. This is because I didn't play any lottery. I can remember that on that fateful day, a young man called me from Diamond Bank and told me that I had won N100,000 monthly for the next 20 years.

“I dismissed the caller immediately as one of those individuals who may want to play a fast one on me. On a second thought, I decided to go to the bank close to my office to verify the claims of the young man.” Those were the words of Hyginus Ahanoku of Nigeria Customs Service, Idi-Iroko, Ogun State, the latest winner of the Salary4Life promo by Diamond Bank.

He said: “When my details were crosschecked at the bank, I was then informed that I had won the “Salary4life promo” prize of N100,000 for 20 years from April 2011. I was surprised at this and couldn't contain the joy inside of me when I left the banking hall. I informed my colleagues in the office, the Customs Comptroller Zone A, Ikudicie as well as my family members of the feat I had achieved.

“At present, I haven’t thought of what to do with the money; though I would be retiring from the service by 2013. No doubt, I will utilise the money judiciously and if need be, would seek financial advice from the bank,” Ahanoku said.

The bank’s Save Xtra product promo is its response to attract some of the money in circulation, especially in the informal sector. Many banks have recently launched such products to attract funds outside the banking system and channel it towards growing the Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

Diamond Bank has continued to put smiles on the faces of its customers since it began the Salary4Life promo.

With his emergence, Ahanoku, who is a Staff Officer, Operations, Custom Command, Zone A, will get N100,000 monthly for 20 years.

Ahanotu became a customer of the bank last year, during the bank's marketing programme at Idiroko in Ogun State. “I opened the account following the account officer's advice. That decision has made me a winner of the prize money. Right now, I am not the only person who saves with the bank. My son, who is a student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri and my brother are also customers of Diamond Bank,” he said.

Born in 1953, Ahanotu joined Nigeria Customs about 31 years ago. For a man set to leave service in June 2013, this is a providential retirement package.

It is also believed that the prize should serve as a big relief to the Customs officer, especially coming one year after he lost his first son; a 600 level undergraduate of Medicine and Surgery in a road accident on his way to school in Calabar.

His colleagues see Ahanotu as an honest man, who has worked in many sensitive units of the Nigeria Customs and was able to resist the temptation to enrich himself. To him, transparency, hard work, dedication to duty and service to his father land, is paramount. For all these sterling qualities, many believe that the prize has come as compensation from God.

•Ahanoku (middle), receiving his dummy cheque from two Diamond Bank’s officials

By Okwy Iroegbu

Speaking at the presentation, the representative of Ogun State Comptroller of Customs, Assistant Comptroller Adamu, confirmed that Ahanotu is a dedicated staff member. He thanked Diamond Bank for the gesture.

The Customs officer further advised Nigerians to cultivate the habit of saving, adding that many people are yet to see the need to save money, especially in banks. “It is a very rewarding exercise. There is always ample fruit to be harvested from saving with a responsible bank,” he said.

The SavingsXtra Salary for Life is a continuation of the bank's pay back scheme it recently launched to reward its customers. The bank made history in the first phase of the campaign when it gave away N50 million to two of its customers as the star prize.

Other salary for life winners had included Amadi Cordelia, an Abujabased housewife; Egbe Stephen Mary of Maiduguri, Shehu Laminu Way branch in Bornu State and Ikechukwu Nwahiri of Benin Mission Road branch in Edo State.

Others included Princewill Aguta, a roadside welder at Orji, a suburb of Owerri, the Imo State capital and Peace Onyemaechi, a stock fish seller at Oyingbo market in Lagos, who won in the recently drawn Season 3 promo.

It would be recalled that James Umaru Mbugadu, a civil servant from Nasarawa State, last year became the first person to be presented with the promo’s N50million star prize cheque.

Mbugadu then said he planned to disengage from the civil service and go

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into private business. A 100 level Language and Linguistics student at University of Maiduguri, Habiba Mona Saliu, was the second person.

There was also Adamu Abdullahi of Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS), who won N10million, as well as Samuel Zouglo, a cook at Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Ikeja, Lagos, who won a brand new Toyota Camry salon car, among many others who won different prizes.

This is apart from many others across the country who have won various prizes including N1million, cars, LCD televisions, power generating sets, air conditioners and music iPods, etc.

Adewale Akinrinde, Head, Liability Products of the bank, revealed that Diamond Bank introduced the SavingsXtra rewards in June 2008, with the intention of encouraging a savings culture and as an opportunity to reward customers for their loyalty.

Akinrinde stated that since the first phase of the campaign, the bank has succeeded in transforming the lives of many people in such a manner that will remain evergreen in their minds for the rest of their lives.

In the words of Akinrinde, “We hope to achieve the same thing as time goes by. We are already doing wonderful things in the lives of our customers and we intend to keep the good work, as we continue to deliver top quality service to our customers. What makes this edition (Season 3) different, is the introduction of a weekly draw in which 10 customers is expected to win N500,000 each, weekly.

“It could not be easier. You only need to save N5,000 in a Diamond SavingsXtra Account, to stand a chance

in any of our monthly & weekly draws.

If you already have that balance, you are automatically qualified. Every additional N5,000 held will add one more chance, so a customer with a balance of N100,000 will get 20 opportunities in every draw that takes place. So, the more customers save, the more chances they are likely to win.”

While acknowledging the fact that the product is an interest-yielding savings account, which allows the deposit of both cash and third party cheques, Akinrinde explained that it is a simple and straight forward savings account which comes with free access to all electronic banking services.

According to Akinrinde, “You get a cheque book, which means that you can use it to make withdrawals or make third party payments free across the counter.

“It gives you the convenience of being able to instantly transfer funds online between your Diamond Bank accounts.

“On this SavingsXtra platform, you have free life assurance cover of N50, 000. You also have access to our VISA Credit Card which will allow you access to a credit limit of up to 75 per cent of your SavingsXtra credit balance and your credit balance still qualifies for the weekly and monthly draws,” Akinrinde concluded.

There is no gain saying that the Salary4Life promo will encourage saving culture from Nigerians mostly in the grassroots as it is believed that there can’t be a substantial investment without adequate savings, which in turn, will ginger up national development in the country.

SEND YOUR STORIES, VIDEOS AND PICTURES TO CITY BEATS at ynotcitybeats@gmail.com OR SEND AN SMS TO 08033054340

SLIDING TACKLE

"I already met him in Germany and he sounded very intelligent about his career.

Just like other young Nigerians who were born abroad we are hoping that with the new FIFA rule, he can change his mind to play for us."

MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

42

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ARRI Wolves prolific scorer, Ekhigo Ehiosun has said that scoring goals is his duty as a striker, adding that he cannot stop scoring if he intends to remain relevant in his chosen career.

Ehiosun, who spoke to NationSport on phone from Abeokuta, venue of the 2011 WAFU Nations Cup, after Nigeria whitewashed the Mena of Niger Republic in the second match of the group stage, said he intends to score more goals for Nigeria in any capacity he is fielded.

Asked if the Eagles can retain the trophy they won last year, Ehiosun said: “With the way we are playing, I think we

2011 AFRICAN NATION WAFU CUP

I can’t stop scoring goals—Ehiosun • Dedicates goals to God

By Innocent Amomoh stand a chance of retaining the trophy. All we need to do is keep focused and

continue playing the way we are doing.”

He, however, dedicated his goals to God almighty, saying

• Ehiosun

that it is by, ‘His grace’, that he is able to achieve the feat so far.

Ehiosun came to limelight after scoring the winner for the Super Eagles team in an international friendly against Sierra- Leone at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos earlier this year.

He has so far scored a total of four goals for the Dream Team V, in its quest to secure qualification tickets for both the Olympic Games slated for England next year, and the All African Games (AAG), netting in a hat-trick against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia respectively.

Home based Eagles thrashed Niger 4-0 After struggling to a 1-0 win in their first match against Liberia last Thursday, the Two goals from the boots of Ikechukwu Ibenegbu in the 4th minute and another in 35th gave Nigeria a deserved 2-0 lead in the 1st half, while rave of the moment Ehigo Ehiosun and 2nd half substitute Aughta White completed the routing.

The win over Niger thus means the Siasia-led team is still in firm contention to retain the trophy won last year, it also served as revenge over the Nigerians who knocked the Home Eagles at of the CHAN Nations Cup last year.

Siasia keen on Germany-born Sam Sidney

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UPER Eagles’ coach Samson Siasia is keen on persuading former Germany youth international Sidney Sam to play for Nigeria.

The Super Eagles’ coach has invited the winger to watch Nigeria play Argentina in Abuja on June 1.

Sam, who plays for Bundesliga side Bayer Levekusen, was born to a German mother but his father comes from Lagos.

As he has not played for Germany at full international level, Sam can play for Nigeria if FIFA approves his nationality switch.

Siasia is hoping to persuade Sam to commit to the Super

Eagles and play in the African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

"I already met him in Germany and he sounded very intelligent about his career," Siasia told BBC Sport.

"Just like other young Nigerians who were born abroad we are hoping that with the new FIFA rule, he can change his mind to play for us."

The 23-year-old had been keen on playing for the Germany senior team before meeting Siasia last week.

The Nigeria coach is hoping that an invitation to watch the Super Eagles could help

convince him to play for the West African country.

"We have extended an invitation to him and his family for the friendly against Argentina (1 June) and I hope after that he will understand he has a chance to prove himself as the Nations Cup qualifiers resumes then," Siasia explained.

"He has never been to Nigeria before, that's why we are bringing him and his family to the country for that friendly match.

"Hopefully, the country, football and what it's got to offer will help him in his decision making," said Siasia.

N

impressive attacking force for the club over three seasons and notched 37 goals in 76 appearances.

• Kim Ojo

OYO FA CUP

Crown defeats 3SC in finals CROWN FC of Ogbomoso over the weekend defeated 3SC to claim Oyo State 2011 Challenge Cup in a final match played inside the newly constructed Stadium of University of Ibadan.

The Ogbomoso soccer Lords won the cup with 3-1 score line via a penalty shoot-out after goaless full time in drab local derby.

NationSport gathered from reliable source that Shooting Star’s controversial striker, Gbolahan Salami threw away what could have being the decider of the match when he lost a penalty awarded to his side in the 82nd minute.

Shooting Star’s fans who spoke to newsmen after the encounter expressed dismay at the performances of the Fatai Amoo tortured side who they claimed still lack the ability of easily converting scoring chances that came their way in a match.

“You can see how our attackers are wasting begging scoring chances that came their way during this match. I don’t think the team can make any headway if enter into the second round like this”, 3SC fans who crafted for anonymity remarked.

The fans however, called on the Jossy Lad-led board to take a drastic measure to save the club

By Innocent Amomoh

from going down as the second round of the Premier League fast approaching.

The Chairman of Crown FC, Gabriel Babalola Olugbodi while speaking to Sports journalists after the match, made a passionate appeal to Ibadan Soccer fans to shun any plan for vendetta that they might be nursing against Crown as a result of previous clashes and see the team as their own.

He, however, disclosed that Crown’s management has concluded plans to relocate the team back to Ibadan as soon as Lekan Salami Stadium’s asroturf project is completed.

“We, want to join 3SC which we considered as our big sisters club in the State in sharing its traditional home ground Lekan Salami Sports Complex as soon as the repair going on there is completed.

“But my greatest appeal is to our people in Ibadan, I mean the Shooting Star’s fans to see us as brothers and let us buried whatever the acrimonies arisen from our previous encounter, such is part of the game of football but my appeal is that the fans of the both clubs should see themselves as brothers,” Babalola explained.

ABUJA FEDERATION CUP FINAL

NAF defeats FC Abuja to emerge winners NAF FC of Abuja at the weekend successfully defended the FCT Federation Cup they won by defeating former premier league club side FC Abuja by a lone goal, as SPORTINGLIFE a sister newspaper of THE NATION emerged as the best print media of the competition. The only goal of the final match played at the Area 10 Old Parade Ground Pitch, Abuja came in the second half.

Speaking at the Occasion, the FCT FA Chairman Musa Saeed Talle implored the two teams to give a good representation to the Capital city when the National premilinaries begins. He said that his administration is committed to ensuring that the game develop from the grassroots,and that from the next edition, the competition will be decentralized to enable all the participating Area Councils have a feel of the game in their localities. He also promised to

From Patrick Ngwaogu

inaugurate the Local Football Councils in the six Area Councils in FCT to speed up football development in the areas.

Individual and team awards were given out, with SPORTINGLIFE winning the best media coverage award for the print media, Independent Television (ITV) Abuja won that for the electronics media, Chief Coach of Supreme Court Alaba Yahaya won the best behaved coach award, Obinna Eleje of FC Abuja was adjudged as the Most Valuable Player, with Matthew Borniface of Supreme Court FC emerging as the highest goal scorer of tournament. Non league club Medical strikers of Gwagwalada were adjudged as the best entertaining team, while Court of Appeal FC emerged as the best behaved team of the tournament.

CBN JUNIOR TENNIS FINALS

Nigeria's Kim Ojo scores brace for Brann

IGERIAN striker Kim Ojo scored a brace for Brann in their 2-0 win over Valerenga in the Norwegian Eliteserien.

The 22-year-old has shown terrific form since the beginning of his debut season at Brann and has scored five goals in his last six showings, as well as handing out three assists.

1.92 metres in height, Ojo began his senior career in Tunisia in 2008 and later moved to Nybergsund of the Norwegian second tier.

He was a consistently

• Sidney

Super Eagles’ coach, Samson Siasia expressing optimism that Germany-born youth international, Sidney Sam will eventually play for Nigeria.

Oshewa,Quadre hug the spotlight

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spontaneous dance to change over music

by Michael Oshewa the 12 and under champion became one of the highlights of the 5th CBN Junior Tennis Championships which ended at the Lagos Lawn Tennis club Saturday.

Trailing 2 – 5 to second seed John Dickson in a match to be decided by a pro set (first to 9 games), Oshewa changed tactics, drawing his opponent to the net and passing him with well

placed shorts. The match dragged to 8-8 and after winning the ensuing tiebreak Oshewa took the centre stage and danced to his hearts content.

The other highlight was 10 and under champion Oyinlomo Quadre taking to the centre court after dispatching all the 18 year olds in the Girls Open.

Standing at less than four feet, Quadre thrashed the number three seed Victoria Peter 9-0 in the quarters

and the number two seed Esther Lasoju 9-3 in the semifinals. However, top seed Afolarin Akosile who represented Nigeria at the African Junior Championship proved too strong for the little girl who succumbed 9-2.

The tournament produced four other champions in the 10, 14, 16, and 18 and under categories.

Indian boy, Terry Das, continued his dominance of the 10 and under category

by dispatching Jebutu Emmanuel 9-0 in a thoroughly one-sided match. Das who was given a slot in the 12 and under event reached the semifinals of that category losing to Dickson.

The boys 14 was won by Biodun David of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club who beat his club mate Olumide Ayoola 9-3 while Michael Michael beat his Co-Foundation club nate, Sylvester Emmanuel 9-6.

JOBS THE NATION

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

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

43

• A cross section of workers

Afraid of retirement? Fear no more Retirement is a sensitive issue. Ears ting on hearing about it. But retirement will come in its due time no matter the fears of workers. Many workers don’t prepare in advance for retirement. So, when it comes, they are in a quandary.

Experts say retirement is good, if one prepares for it. The issue was examined at a post-retirement conference in Lagos. AKINOLA AJIBADE reports.

F

OR some, nothing could be sweeter than retirement. For those on the verge of retirement, they dream, talk, and long for it. Like a dream, the issue resonates in their minds. As the clock ticks, they remember the day with passion. They discuss it with animated breath. They hope for the best. Many are inspired by the various packages introduced to make retirement worthwhile.

Of note is the pension fund scheme, initiated by the regime of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Since 2005 when the scheme was launched, workers have been overwhelmed by the prospects of living a good retirement life. They believe that their future is guaranteed, as long as the scheme is in place. To them, they need not bother

again. Beyond this is the need to live a fulfilled retirement life.

The post-retirement conference held in Lagos recently, gave an insight into how Nigerians can utilise their retirement for their own gain.

The conference jointly organised by Okibx Nigeria Limited and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity opened the eyes of many workers to the benefits of retirement. It generated issues that aroused the consciousness of the participants, and further helped them to have a re-think about their future.

At the event, experts drawn from banks, capital market and academia, among other fields, did not leave the participants in doubt about the need to prepare for retirement. They concluded that workers that failed to prepare for retirement would regret

The Chief Executive Officer, WILAC & Co Limited (an educational consultancy firm), Prof Williams Olugbu, said many Nigerians were not enjoying retirement because they failed to plan for it. Olugbu observed that many dread retirement, and, as such, could not prepare for it.

He advised Nigerians to start planning for retirement immediately after securing a job, adding that the development would prepare them for challenges that may arise after leaving office.

He said old age comes with responsibility, urging people not to run away from it in order to live a good life.

He said: “When some people receive a letter that they are retiring soon, they become uncomfortable. They get worried because they

have not adequately prepared for it. They seldom ask themselves questions. What would become of me after retirement? Will I be able to enjoy my retirement? Will I be able to access quality medical services?

“The reason is because they do not see retirement from the point of view of meeting certain responsibilities. Retirement is not only about resting or catching fun only. It is beyond that. The retirement period provides opportunity for people to do some jobs, and earn an income.

“Since they have used 70 per cent of their active years working for people, nothing stops them from using the remaining 30 per cent for themselves by finding something to • Continued on page 44

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

44

JOBS

Afraid of retirement?

Fear no more • Continued from page 43

do.”

He said many people could not live for a year or two after retirement, due to lack of a good frame of mind.

“One must psychologically prepare for retirement. Retirement is a total package. It includes living a healthy life, running away from stress and doing some jobs to complement your pension.

“New things unfold after retirement.

They can be classified as burdens of retirement. People must get rid of it.

For instance, a man that is not doing anything after retirement would have time for frivolities. He would have time to monitor his wife. During this period, he would know that his wife has gone to the market since 8.00 a.m, and has not returned,” he said.

Olugbu urged Nigerians to look for something to do after retirement to remain active.

“If you do not want to die immediately after retirement, you must look for something to do. I have retired from public service. If you decide to remain inactive after retirement, you become a burden to the society.

“I’m an educational consultant. Besides consulting for schools, I have a poultry farm. I wake up early, and go to my farm for inspection. I check my workers to know whether they

are doing well or not. Through this, I have been able to free myself from things that affect my compositions.

I’m talking about putting in place measures that would affect my wellbeing. This makes me to look fit,” he added.

Olugbu said workers should have what he called unorthodox pension scheme for their children, if they want to enjoy their retirement.

“Why do you think social miscreants (Area Boys) are not living a normal life! It is because they do not have a formal education. Their parents are unable to train and prepare them for the future. Now, they have become a burden to the society.

“You cannot live a happy life after retirement, if you do not have provisions for your children and the family.

“Home is where you go and be happy. You don’t need to go to Sheraton Hotel, before you can enjoy retirement. Once you make certain provisions for your immediate family, you will enjoy retirement”, he said.

He advised workers to think, dream, plan, and imagine what they would do after retirement, arguing that there is nothing accidental about retirement.

“There is no end until you die. So, bowing out of office is not the end.

You can still do some jobs, if your

• Prof Olugbu

capacity can carry it. But you must plan ahead”, he advised.

Also, the Managing Director, Okibx Nigeria Limited, Okey Ibekwe, said people can enjoy a good retirement life, once they plan for it. He advised workers to de-emphasise certain attributes or achievements recorded in office, adding that the development would enable them to set post-retirement goals.

“People must not rely heavily on their certificates, names and rigid mindsets, if they must record success after retirement. Many people have good certificates, ideas and names. But the question is: have they put them to optimal use?

“The only thing that can assist people after retirement is to come out with brilliant ideas. When they implement these ideas well, they would make money for themselves.

They would not regret leaving ser-

• Ibekwe

vice,” he said.

He chided people for foot-dragging on some issues, adding that a brilliant idea would die if it was not implemented as soon as possible.

He said many people worked for over 40 years, without recording any achievement. He blamed the development on the inability of such people to use what he described as a manual of life.

He said successful people have an instruction manual through which they effectively run their lives, advising Nigerians to follow their footsteps.

He said 80 per cent of people that work and retire are broke, while 20 per cent are financially independent.

He said people that fashion out ways of surviving after retirement cannot be broke. He said such people would have something to fall back on in the event that retirement benefits are not

forthcoming.

According to him, personal fulfillment can only be derived when one sets some goals, and implement them after retirement.

He said the goals must be simple, clear, and realistic before they can be translated into success.

Similarly, the former General Manager (Administration), Leedway Assurance Limited, Mr John Ajadi, urged Nigerians to prepare for their retirement. He said the issue requires planning, noting that many are regretting for failing to plan for retirement.

“It is not the best for a man to rely heavily on pension. A man must map out survival strategies before or after leaving office.

“Also, you must look inward and discover the untapped areas. Through this, one is assured of decent living after retirement,” he stated.

45

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

CEO

• Ilukwe

‘We‘ve learnt from NITEL’s failure’ Galaxy Backbone Plc was established to coordinate and harmonise Federal Government’s Information Technology (IT) infrastructure. It’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Gerald Ilukwe, says the company has provided over 3,000 interconnectivity across public sector locations. He said the company is cautious in its operations to avoid mistakes that led to NITEL’s collapse. CHUKS UDO OKONTA met him.

W

HAT impact has Galaxy made in e-service enhancement?

Galaxy Backbone has changed the Information Communication Technology landscape for good, especially through its 1Gov. net service platform which was introduced to enhance efficient delivery of pub-

lic services and cost effectiveness.

Galaxy Backbone has taken several steps to provide essential ICT services to the Federal public sector.

The overiding objective is to ensure that the framework for ICT is put in place and supported for present and future operations

of the Federal Government.

How does the firm ensure connection to Internet in ministries, agencies and others?

To ensure robust connection to the internet, Galaxy provides a redundant high speed internet service to the Federal Secretariat Complex. This service is provided through

a fibre optic cable link which is backed by a robust VSAT link.

To ensure that all our customers get improved quality of service, a desk/call centre is located within the secretariat. We also have • Continued on page 46

46

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

CEO

‘We’ve learnt from NITEL’s failure’ • Continued from page 45

a field support team which attends to customers’ issues and challenges.

Galaxy is also setting up and will continue to manage the federal secretariat LAN, a project designed to deliver a network capable of supporting 3,000 devices at the Phase 1 complex, 2,000 network devices at the Phase 2 complex, multimedia and other value-added services and support desks that located at the secretariat, with secondary support from the Galaxy network operations centre.

How was the company able to harmonise government’s information with available technology infrastructure?

A lot of work has been done in harmonising the ICT infrastructure in public establishments. There is still more to be done.

Today, the government’s process of providing information and communication technology infrastructure and services recognises that Galaxy is there to provide a common platform on infrastructure. During discussions with the Minister of Finance, he indicated his desire to support our operations because of the benefit it offers to government in terms of cost savings.

From a security point of view, there is a lot of justification for harmonising and integrating infrastructure in government.

Today, we have provided connectivity across over 3,000 public sector locations nationwide and we have connectivity extending to every ministry of the Federal Government in Abuja by fibre cable which is the best in connectivity.

To what extent has your operations aided government’s reforms?

Government’s reform is a multifaceted programme. Part of the reform is workforce empowerment and capacity building.

We have made significant progress in capacity building in the last three years, by training technical resource persons for information technology and making technology available to various ministries, departments and agencies.

The secretariat is wired with world-class infrastructure, with high speed broadband supporting the complex. We have at least 12,000 network nooses for the government.

We are providing devices like video conferencing platform for government to reduce overheads.

Government spends about N1.2 billion on telephone bills every year. We have helped in reducing this overhead and will continue to make a significant in road in keeping the cost low.

How has the launch of optic fibre cable impacted your operations?

The launch of the optic fibre cable has aided our operations greatly. We have taken advantage and passed the price gains onto our primary customer - the government, and to other customers.

We were at the forefront on the MainOne cable. Even before they landed, we got approval from the office of the Secretary of Government of the Federation (SGF). We made advance commitment for Irreducible Right of Use (IRU).

What is the level of co-operation from MDAs in the management of government’s data base?

Its a mix bag in the sense that government’s MDAs are resistant in giving up what they consider to be their data. There is still an avoidable inefficiency in the way data is managed in the public sector. For example, it has almost become fashionable to talk about biometrics and there are three key agencies dealing with biometrics information that cover at least 40 per cent of the population of the country.

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has the voters register, we are now embarking on SIM card registration and we still have the National Identity management system that is managed by the Identity Management Commission (IMC).

Apart from just providing hosting services, we also feel that we can add value in terms of providing the technology architecture, such that the same data would not have to been written twice. The harmonisation of database and management has not really been achieved.

We believe the hosting of data can be centralised, irrespective of who owns the data. Because the connectivity platform exists, whether you own data or not, you can actually access it without necessarily siting it in your premises, where you do not have the capacity to manage it or meet the terms of environmental and technicalities involved.

What is the level of rural internet provision?

In getting the device to the rural areas, we have made a lot of progress. But if you consider where we are going, you would observe that we have not made enough progress. I can tell you that we have made 10 fold improvement in rural penetration, but for us to really make much impact; we really need to make 60 folds in rural penetration.

Are you satisfied?

I would say no, because I think there is a lot of room for improvement. The thing about the rural internet project is that the actual custodians of what you are going to do are difficult to identify and coordinate. We have a lot of challenges there. Despite the challenges, we have done a lot of work in the rural areas, especially where we have partners at the federal level to work with.

Which agencies are particularly helpful?

The Primary Health Care Development Agency has absolutely been fantastic. We have provided connectivity to over 260 locations for them. Working with the Millennium Development Goals

• Ilukwe (MDGs) office, we are supposed to be doing work towards about 255 local governments, which are like one-stop-shop for rural intervention. We have made a lot of progress working with the National Primary Health Care Agency and the MDGs office. We have a few state governments which have come forward to embrace our work.

The Anambra State Government has been incredibly forth coming, as far as we know. They have provided the highest number of connectivity to schools. We are talking to a few other states which seem to be on the verge of coming through.

What is your role in attaining the Millennium Development

Goals ?

We are providing the Millennium Development Goals’office the technology it requires to monitor and evaluate its services.

And the technology is going to be extended to the rural areas to provide the required access. Some of the MDGs objectives have to do with wealth creation for small scale businesses.

Galaxy is providing connectivity to over 300 secondary schools in Nigeria to drive e-learning. We are providing internet access to seven universities, e-mail services and web hosting. We are hosting an education administration solution for the National Open University and e-mail service for the Ministry of Education

‘To remain afloat we are committed to 15 years bandwidth supply. We have built infrastructure and we will continue to support the infrastructure we have built. Our business modem also encourages us to work actively with the private sector’

and the Unity schools. Galaxy is driving the framework design and execution of e-learning in Nigeria.

What structure do you have in place to ensure sustainability of your operations?

To remain afloat, we are committed to 15 years bandwidth supply.

We have built the infrastructure and will continue to support it. Our business modem also encourages us to work actively with the private sector.

I think the times are changing and the government, as an institution is not unaware of the trends, especially now that it has a huge bill to contend with, it’s giving us its cooporation. When Nigerian Telecommunication Limited was dying, institutions like the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE) was not there. We also have the benefit that NITEL was not a success story, so, it is a learning process for us, how not to fail like NITEL did.

The government has actually empowered the ministries, departments and agencies a bit more.What kills government’s entity is lack of agility. That is inability to take decisions and be held accountable for the decisions you make. The government has to move towards holding people accountable for the decisions they make.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

47

CAPITAL MARKET NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 6-05-11 2ND-TIER SECURITIES Company Name CAPITAL OIL PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1 0.50 37,000 18,500.00 1 37,000 18,500.00 AGRICULTURE/AGRO-ALLIED

Company Name FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC PRESCO PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 1 4 12 17

Quotation(N) 0.50 0.50 7.01

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 200,000 100,000.00 205,000 102,500.00 132,000 952,378.00 537,000 1,154,878.00

FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXOSMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTER PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1 0.50 19,000 9,500.00 23 2.55 992,400 2,525,342.00 24 1,011,400 2,534,842.00 BANKING

Company Name ACCESS BANK PLC AFRIBANK NIGERIA PLC DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK NIGERIA PLC FIRST CITY MONUMENT BANK PLC FIDELITY BANK PLC FIRST BANK OF NIGERIA PLC FINBANK PLC GTBANK PLC STANBIC IBTC BANK PLC INTERCONTINENTAL BANK PLC. OCEANIC BANK INTERNATIONAL PLC BANK PHB PLC SKYE BANK PLC. STERLING BANK PLC UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC. UNION BANK OF NIGERIA PLC UNITYBANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC ZENITH BANK PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 146 40 73 27 41 82 663 92 415 47 94 35 32 93 49 91 78 24 27 333 2,482

Quotation(N) 8.30 1.82 7.45 4.04 7.60 2.66 13.86 0.76 16.25 10.05 1.42 1.96 1.24 8.15 2.36 6.76 3.28 1.20 1.28 15.31

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 4,936,897 41,454,760.18 1,858,880 3,495,709.65 6,100,314 45,771,400.26 454,266 1,849,106.43 2,238,450 17,029,127.76 3,339,233 8,897,730.50 31,402,792 435,346,207.05 15,683,763 11,633,734.02 11,262,343 184,348,456.53 1,120,348 11,256,605.20 12,506,106 17,720,216.87 900,739 1,765,448.44 968,388 1,200,801.12 1,916,357 15,567,136.67 4,269,842 9,939,933.21 1,815,624 12,273,618.24 3,153,174 10,002,615.06 1,441,956 1,694,746.77 1,061,963 1,355,398.44 19,868,059 306,203,556.56 126,299,494 1,138,806,308.96

Quotation(N) 205.00 5.23 87.00

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 71,307 15,163,330.19 361,531 1,890,950.83 2,815,162 245,443,193.99 3,248,000 262,497,475.01

BREWERIES Company Name GUINNESS NIGERIA PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC NIGERIAN BREWERIES PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 60 19 195 274

BUILDING MATERIALS Company Name ASHAKA CEMENT PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTHERN NIGERIA PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC LAFARGE WAPCO PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 51 13 16 40 120

Company Name CAPITAL HOTEL PLC IKEJA HOTEL PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 13 8 3 24

Quotation(N) 25.95 12.26 121.26 40.25

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 202,823 5,232,023.88 335,146 4,108,889.96 38,565 4,797,708.18 223,336 9,280,164.22 799,870 23,418,786.24

Company Name B. O. C. GASES NIGERIA PLC FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC VITAFOAM NIGERIA PLC VONO PRODUCTS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 3 3 12 3 21

Quotation(N) 12.48 20.99 1.94

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 32,472 392,174.70 33,351 734,722.53 90,000 174,600.00 155,823 1,301,497.23

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 2 0.50 10,500 5,250.00 10 2.85 131,550 376,637.20 12 142,050 381,887.20

No of Deals 4 1 3 37 45

No of Deals 36 10 1 22 2 6 21 2 2 3 9 6 36 2 3 2 1 1 6 6 177

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 265,366 587,024.42 334,602 10,747,679.44 83,814,608 95,952,151.13 104,135 3,999,676.43 2,493,309 69,343,880.34 87,012,020 180,630,411.76

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 2 5.50 5,000 26,150.00 12 50.40 426,603 20,828,786.62 14 431,603 20,854,936.62 ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Company Name NIGERIAN WIRE AND CABLE PLC. Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 6 0.50 135,896 67,948.00 6 135,896 67,948.00 FOOD/BEVERAGES & TOBACCO

Company Name 7-UP BOTTLING CO. PLC CADBURY NIGERIA PLC DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIGERIA PLC HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC MULTI-TREX INTEGRATED FOODS PLC NATIONAL SALT COMPANY NIGERIA PLC NIGERIAN BOTTLING COMPANY PLC NESTLE NIGERIA PLC TANTALIZERS PLC UTC NIGERIA PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 23 42 116 85 50 14 1 26 30 67 14 5 473

Quotation(N) 45.50 22.00 18.89 13.30 85.10 4.75 1.96 5.39 36.99 395.00 0.51 0.64

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 42,298 1,943,456.81 488,452 10,727,273.91 2,094,888 38,759,572.57 1,731,292 23,015,251.50 69,461 5,949,721.43 204,050 975,779.72 5,000 9,350.00 874,896 4,712,778.12 239,721 8,836,356.32 116,665 46,650,487.57 2,118,800 1,080,726.00 18,210 11,639.40 8,003,733 142,672,393.35

HEALTHCARE Company Name EVANS MEDICALPLC.

Quotation(N) 0.90 1.03 0.50 3.21 0.50 0.52 1.55 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.55 0.50 0.55 0.70 0.50 2.24 0.51 0.50 0.50 0.52

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1,822,692 1,694,341.50 883,000 910,310.00 100,000 50,000.00 907,058 2,967,737.91 200,000 100,000.00 1,878,200 976,664.00 444,222 688,544.10 1,430 715.00 276,237 138,118.50 350,000 175,000.00 356,390 198,316.20 654,323 327,161.50 15,373,152 8,024,819.04 10,580 7,106.00 23,400 11,700.00 25,000 53,250.00 34,334 17,510.34 25,000 12,500.00 355,161 177,580.50 105,958 55,071.88 23,826,137 16,586,446.47

LEASING Company Name C&I LEASING PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 17 1.35 482,198 630,966.22 17 482,198 630,966.22 MARITIME

Company Name JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 52 1.38 3,221,065 4,455,069.70 52 3,221,065 4,455,069.70

Company Name AFROMEDIA PLC DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 3 0.51 100,500 51,255.00 8 0.50 35,000 17,500.00 11 135,500 68,755.00 MORTGAGE COMPANIES

Company Name ASO SAVINGS AND LOAND PLC RESORT SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 10 1 21 32

Quotation(N) 0.50 0.50 0.73

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 14,515,008 7,257,504.00 200,000 100,000.00 1,742,785 1,203,057.95 16,457,793 8,560,561.95

Company Name CRUSADER NIGERIA PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1 0.50 10,000 5,000.00 8 0.50 1,046,984 523,492.00 9 1,056,984 528,492.00 PACKAGING

CONSTRUCTION Company Name COSTAIN (WA) PLC JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC Sector Totals

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1,710,220 855,110.00 1,000 2,670.00 18,200 9,100.00 5,774,472 4,287,656.29 7,503,892 5,154,536.29

INSURANCE Company Name AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE CO. PLC. CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED INSURANCE PLC EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC GOLDLINK INSURANCE PLC GUARANTY TRUST ASSURANCE PLC CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSU COMPANY PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LAW UNION AND ROCK INSURANCE PLC. MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC N.E.M. INSURANCE CO. (NIG.) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. OASIS INSURANCE PLC PRESTIGE ASSURANCE PLC. SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC UNIC INSURANCE PLC. UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC INTERCONTINENTAL WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Sector Totals

CONGLOMERATES Quotation(N) 2.28 32.45 1.18 39.00 28.00

Quotation(N) 0.50 2.81 0.50 0.73

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 4 6.27 17,489 104,234.44 1 0.50 500 250.00 5 17,989 104,484.44

Company Name No of Deals A. G. LEVENTIS (NIGERIA) PLC 14 PZ CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC 40 TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC 416 UAC OF NIGERIA PLC 36 UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC 68 Sector Totals 574

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 150 1,260.00 60,000 34,200.00 32,461 171,844.48 100,000 303,000.00 192,611 510,304.48

INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Company Name CHAMS PLC IHS NIGERIA PLC MASS TELECOM INNOVATION NIGERIA PLC STARCOMMS PLC Sector Totals

COMPUTER & OFFICE EQUIPMENT Company Name NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. OMATEK VENTURES PLC Sector Totals

Quotation(N) 8.84 0.60 5.55 3.18

MEDIA

COMMERCIAL/SERVICES Company Name COURTVILLE INVESTMENTS PLC RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Sector Totals

990,228.53 1,246,528.60 126,081.20 1,667,890.41 4,243,275.75

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1 3.12 2,448 7,637.76 10 1.50 208,476 311,169.00 11 210,924 318,806.76

CHEMICAL & PAINTS Company Name BERGER PAINTS NIGERIA PLC CHEMICAL AND ALLIED PRODUCTS PLC DN MEYER PLC Sector Totals

449,211 50,497 30,570 1,064,093 1,770,908

INDUSTRIAL/DOMESTIC PRODUCTS

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1 2.08 500 1,090.00 160 9.20 1,103,838 10,189,633.47 161 1,104,338 10,190,723.47

AUTOMOBILE & TYRE Company Name DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC R. T. BRISCOE (NIGERIA) PLC Sector Totals

2.23 24.70 4.18 1.67

HOTEL & TOURISM

AIR SERVICES Company Name AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Sector Totals

16 10 16 18 77

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 17 1.23 176,537 212,547.01

Company Name NIGERIAN BAG MANUFACTURING COMPANY PLC NAMPAK NIGERIA PLC POLY PRODUCTS (NIGERIA) PLC. Sector Totals

No of Deals 35 2 1 38

Quotation(N) 2.49 3.60 1.46

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 1,452,671 3,614,119.36 4,100 14,418.00 2,300 3,358.00 1,459,071 3,631,895.36

PETROLEUM(MARKETING) Company Name AFRICAN PETROLEUM PLC. BECO PETROLEUM PRODUCT PLC MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC CONOIL PLC ETERNA OIL & GAS PLC. MOBIL OIL NIGERIA PLC. OANDO PLC TOTAL NIGERIA PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 45 10 11 4 25 13 120 12 240

Quotation(N) 20.02 0.50 66.56 34.30 4.89 148.20 53.60 201.50

Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 130,447 2,633,310.35 178,000 89,000.00 11,124 706,626.68 1,395 46,949.09 344,244 1,672,701.27 8,545 1,228,541.20 403,587 21,979,645.45 9,663 1,950,725.85 1,087,005 30,307,499.89

PRINTING & PUBLISHING Company Name UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 12 4.84 87,726 439,088.48 12 87,726 439,088.48 REAL ESTATE No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 14 16.01 83,770 1,346,028.20 14 83,770 1,346,028.20

Company Name UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. PLC Sector Totals

ROAD TRANSPORTATION Company Name ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 11 0.57 513,650 288,829.00 11 513,650 288,829.00 THE FOREIGN LISTINGS

Company Name ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED Sector Totals

No of Deals Quotation(N) Quantity TradedValue of Shares (N) 37 16.00 7,605,992 118,303,231.46 37 7,605,992 118,303,231.46

Overall Totals

Mac 72 - 58-59 - CAPITAL MARKET

4,991

294,631,442

1,980,008,859.29

48

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

CAPITAL MARKET

NSE set to kick-off enlightenment campaign on share sales T

HE Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) is to begin an enlight enment campaign to educate investors on its new rule requiring the Central Securities Clearing Systems (CSCS) to credit investors’ accounts directly with the proceeds of their share sales.

The former Interim Administrator, Mr Emmanuel Ikhazoboh, told chief executive officers of stockbroking firms and the management of the NSE that the new system commenced on April 1, 2011.

He said the system was adopted in line with recommendations by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) following its dissatisfaction with the anomalies in the former system.

Stories by Tonia Osundolire

Under the former system, proceeds of cheques were issued directly by the CSCS to the stockbrokers on behalf of the shareholders.

However, a lot of complaints from investors about illegal sales of their shares or embezzlement of their proceeds led to the current change.

Ikhazoboh said: “The new system of payment of sales proceeds to clients’accounts through the CSCS has officially taken off on April 1, 2011.

“The NSE will commence clients’ enlightenment that will run throughout the next 30 days. However, the procedure for stocks purchases remains unchanged.”

Speaking with The Nation on Friday, the Senior Manager, Corporate Communications of the exchange, Mr Wole Tokede, said the planned enlightenment is in top gear and it would include all the various means of media communication such as jingles on radio, print and television adverts.

Commenting on the new plan of the NSE to avert alleged fraudulent practices by stock brokers, market operators said it is true that they were given till March 25 to make their suggestions after which the exchange will look into it for implementation. They feel their contributions were not communicated back as being accepted before the change took off on April

1.

However, they said it is important for the Exchange to make sure investors are aware of the new process, so that it would aid seamless transition.

The said enlightenment should be taken very seriously, because a few investors may not know what to do, while some may be sceptical about any new system and may consider it with suspicion.

In another development, operators believe that the same method of implementation will be used for the price cap ceiling when the exchange decides to implement.

Specifically, a broker said at the meeting held with the chief executive officer of the stock brokering

firms and the exchange, the idea of removing the five per cent cap ceiling, maximum and minimum price movement, was dropped to be replaced with a consideration of ten per cent ceiling.

This erupted slight debate before it was agreed the issue should be left for market forces to decide.

However, Ikhazoboh has confirmed that there are some decisions taken that will be implemented by the new Director-General of the exchange Mr Oscar Onyema.

“Onyema will be implementing the trading extension and other vital decisions that will move the exchange further,” he had said

FMBN plans to raise N14b mortgage-backed bonds

T

•Edo State Governor Adam Oshiomhole (right) with FinBank's Divisional Head (DH) Compliance, Ogili Enenche and DH Internal Control, Kunle Awe, at the dinner and awards nite of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Lagos.

Strong earnings boost NSE’s key indicators

B

ULLISH sentiments domi nated the market last week, with the NSE All-Share Index appreciating by 258.78 points or 1.03 per cent to close on Friday at 25,300.46.

However, the market capitalisation of the 194 First-Tier equities increased by N83 billion or 1.04 per cent to at N8.084 trillion.

These performances were tied to the strong earnings recorded by quoted companies on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

According to NSE weekly report, 29 quoted companies presented their first quarter results to the exchange while two others were full year reports.

The NSE-30 Index appreciated by 22.88 points or 2.05 per cent to close at 1,131.06. The NSE Food & Beverage Index appreciated by 15 points or 1.83 per cent to close at 837.11, the NSE Banking Index appreciated by 13.62 points or 3.43 per cent to close at 406.07, while the NSE Insurance Index depreciated by 3.78 points or 2.16 per cent to close at 171.36 and the NSE Oil/ Gas Index depreciated by 7.56 points or 2.27 per cent to close at 326.51.

However, a turnover of 1.116 billion shares worth N8.871 billion in 22,024 deals was recorded last week, in contrast to a total of 0.92 billion shares valued at N9.72 billion exchanged the previous week in 17,338 deals.

The Stock Market opened for four days as Monday, May 2 was declared a public holiday by the Federal Government to mark the Workers Day (May Day) Celebration.

Activities in the banking sector were on the upbeat as many of the

banks recorded gains last week.

FinBank, Diamond Bank, UBA and Oceanic Bank gained points in excess of 10 per cent apiece. Other gainers in the sector include Stanbic IBTC, Intercontinental Bank, Wema Bank and Union Bank, gathering points between five per cent and nine per cent. Aggressive selling activities shaved off marginal points from the price of Skye Bank and Fidelity Bank, both recording losses of 1.5 per cent and 1.8 per cent.

Still on the price movement, in the breweries sector, NB maintained its strong hold on the market throughout the week. Strategic activities on the last trading day curbed the price appreciation of NB and it subsequently gained marginal points.

Bullish sentiments dominated activities in Guinness; it however closed flat due to a dearth of volumes. On the flip side, International Breweries lost 13.5 per cent cumulatively.

In terms of volume movement, the Banking subsector was the most active with 690.3 million shares worth N5.85 billion exchanged by investors in 12,458 deals. Volume in the Banking subsector was largely driven by activity in the shares of Diamond Bank Plc, First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Zenith Bank Plc and United Bank for Africa Plc. Trading in the shares of the four banks accounted for 379.74 million shares, representing 55.01 per cent and 34.03 per cent of the subsector’s turnover and total volume traded last week.

This was followed by the Insurance subsector, boosted by activ-

ity in the shares of NEM Insurance Company Plc and LASACO Assurance Plc followed on the week’s activity chart with a subsector turnover of 129.72 million shares valued at N109.79 million in 908 deals.

Last week, the Banking subsector led on the activity chart and was followed by the Insurance subsector.

Meanwhile, Flourmills of Nigeria Plc, notified the exchange of its proposed scheme of arrangement of its intention to undertake an internal restructuring by way of Scheme of Arrangement through the absorption of Golden Pasta Company Limited, one of its wholly owned subsidiaries.

The Scheme Document dated March 18, 2011, was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in its letter dated April 1, 2011.

HE Managing Director of Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Mr Gimba Ya’u Kumo, has said the bank will raise N14 billion Mortgage-Backed Bond (MBB) from the Nigeria capital Market in July 2011.

Kumo, who disclosed this in a paper on Opportunities for Low and Middle Income Earners in National Housing Fund, at the ongoing 11th Lagos Housing Fair, was represented by Mr Bola Ogunsola, an Executive Director in the bank.

The amount would be from some mortgage loan originators.

“Currently, a pool of mortgages of about N14 billion from mortgage loan originators is being processed for the second tranche of the MBB. We are looking forward to be in the capital market in July and this amount will bring the cumulative beneficiaries under the MBB programme to 16, 108 home buyers.” he said The News Agency of Nigeria

(NAN) reports that FMBN successfully floated N26 billion in the first tranche of the N100 billion MBB. The fund was used to refinance the civil servants’ acquisition of 9,525 Federal Government residential houses sold in the FCT. Ya’u Kumo said the investors in the first tranche had been getting their coupons payment every May and November of each year, adding that the payment had been up to date.

He said the mortgage loans originators were seven in number.

They include the United Banks for Africa, Oceanic Bank, Abbey Building Society and Aso Savings and Loans, among others.

He said the National Housing Fund (NHF) has funded many housing estates.

According to him, about 53.518 houses have been developed through the Primary Mortgage Institutions and Estate Development Loans.

Union Bank to re-strategise for better performance

T

HE Union Bank of Nigeria says it is re-strategising its op erations to achieve better performance in 2011.

The latest edition of Stallion, the bank’s quarterly, states that the bank will re-define its business and market development strategies as well as re-engineers the customer service.

It said the bank’s operational processes and risk management areas would also be affected by the re-engineering.

The Stallion quoted the bank’s Managing Director, Mrs Funke Osibodu, as saying that the bank also intends to fine-tune its definition of business in all the zones.

Osibodu said all zonal branches must come up with strategies that would make the bank the clear leader in the zones, rather than just having good market share.

She advised the zonal coordinators to do more qualitative assessment of the competitive nature of their zones to know how best to compete.

Osibodu said the bank was determined to improve on its visibility in the market place, especially in the light of recent challenges.

She said the bank would allocate resources to strategic areas of business and leverage technology to deliver process efficiently and cost effectively.

JP Morgan, Credit Suisse to face SEC subpoena

J

PMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) re ceived a subpoena from the United States Securities and Exchange Commission over failed mortgages, a person familiar with the investigation said, as the agency probes banks including Credit Suisse Group AG (CS) for allegedly failing to share refunds from sellers of faulty debt.

Credit Suisse received a subpoena from the SEC last week, bond insurer MBIA Insurance Corp. said in a filing in a lawsuit against three of that Zurich-based bank’s units. The agency asked New York-based JPMorgan for information after a court in January unsealed allegations made about Bear Stearns Cos.’ practices

in another suit, said the person, who declined to be identified because the matter isn’t public.

US investigators have been scrutinising companies involved in the mortgage business after the worst collapse in home prices since the Great Depression.

Bond insurers MBIA and Ambac Assurance Corp. have said Credit Suisse and Bear Stearns, which JPMorgan bought in 2008, demanded refunds from originators that sold the banks the loans that they packaged into bonds, and then failed to use those settlement amounts to fulfill their own contractual promises on the debt.

“We’re really starting to finally get into evidence that suggests blatant

fraud,” said Isaac Gradman, a San Francisco- based litigation consultant and formerly a lawyer at Howard Rice Nemerovski Canady Falk & Rabkin.

Jennifer R. Zuccarelli, a spokeswoman for New York-based JPMorgan, declined to comment.

Steven Vames, a Credit Suisse spokesman in New York, declined to comment on MBIA’s statement about an SEC investigation. John Nester, an SEC spokesman, declined to comment.

Kevin Brown, a spokesman for MBIA, said that Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP as counsel for the bond insurer was also subpoenaed by the SEC, seeking documents related to the Credit Suisse matter.

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

49

CAPITAL MARKET

Investors splash N6.84b on shares

I

NVESTORS last week staked only N6.84 billion on shares at the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

They parted with N7.07 billion at the Exchange a fortnight ago.

Transactions of the Banking sub-sector, which led activity, stood at 0.56 billion units’ worth N4.70 billion in 9,995 deals.

The sub-sector’s stake represented 68.51 per cent of the overall activity and represented an improvement on the 60.4 per cent a fortnight ago.

The Insurance sub-sector followed the Banking industry with 92.41 million units worth N82.83 million in 661 deals. On average evaluation, the Insurance sub-sector accounted for approximately 11.47 per cent of the total activity and 1.20 per cent of the total fund invested at the Exchange during the week under review.

The index point was 25,072.92 as against 25,240.88 a fortnight ago. With this representation, the market appreciated on weekly assessment. The market capitalisation also stood at N8.01 trillion compared with the N8.06 trillion a fortnight ago.

Last week, shares of Diamond Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc and Zenith Bank Plc were the toast of investors as they were actively traded in terms of volume and total investment.

But unlike the penultimate week when investors parted with N7.07 billion for 1.51 billion shares, they spent N6.86 billion on 0.81 billion shares last week.

In terms of transactional volume, the Insurance sub-sector’s performance represented an improvement of about 6.14 per cent on the week before. The total weekly value of stocks in this sub-sector stood at N 0.82 billion.

The braIndex® rose by 1.98 per cent compared with the previous week while the NSE All-Share Index also slipped trivially by 0.66 per cent on the Index points. The returns of both benchmarks were less than two index points and attributable to the introduction of AMCON activities on the Exchange and the degree of uncertainties in recent times.

On a year-to-date basis, both benchmarks - the NSE All-Share Index and the braIndex® - showed gains of 1.12 per cent and 1.17 per cent.

Stock Market Sectoral Performance During the 4-day trading period due to the May Day holiday which was observed last Monday, investors in the shares of Diamond Bank Plc exchanged 106.42 million units in 272 deals worth N776.41 million. The average number of deals remained well over 54 deals per day during the week.

United Bank for Africa Plc was second with 78.94 million shares worth N471.81 million.

In the Insurance sub-sector, Lasaco Assurance Plc led with 24.98 million shares worth N12.49 million. The sectoral volume amounted to almost 92.41 million units and constituted over 11.47 per cent of the sector’s trading volume.

Companies Appraisal The most active company in the Banking sub-sector was Diamond Bank Plc with 106.42 million shares worth N776.41 million in 272 deals, followed by the United Bank for Africa Plc with units of shares amounting to 78.94 million. The company closed the week at N471.81 million in 975 deals.

Among the most active companies in the Insurance sub-sector were Lasaco Assurance Plc, Universal Insurance Plc, N.E.M Insurance Co. (Nig.) Plc, Aiico Insurance Plc and Goldlink Insurance Plc. In the Conglomerate industry, apart from Transnational Corporation Plc, Unilever Nigeria Plc was very active in terms of trading.

The total companies’ worth stood at N125.1 million.

The Food, Beverages and Tobacco

Table 1: A Five-Day Moving Average Data of the Market Indices Change(%) Average Weekly Depth

Market Capitalisation (%) (0.03)

All-Share Index(%) (0.03)

Year To Date (YTD)

1.09

1.12

1.17

Month To Date (MTD)

(0.62)

(0.64)

(0.78)

Week To Date(WTD) Values

(0.68) All-Share Index

(0.66)

1.98

25,072

16.98

Market Cap(trillion Naira)

braIndex®

8.01

As of closing on May 04, 2011

Average Weekly 0.53

Source: NSE & bra Limited Table 2: Stock Market Summary Statistics for the week ending May. 05, 2011 Period Market Capitalisation (Trillion) 27/04/2011 8.06 28/04/2011 8.08 29/04/2011 8.00 03/05/2011 8.01 04/05/2011 8.01 05/05/2011 8.02 Source: NSE & Bra Limited

All-Share Index (Base Points) 25,240.08 25,293.16 25,041.68 25,085.59 25,072.92 25,219.69

BraIndex (Base Points) 16.65 16.73 16.71 16.73 16.98 17.01

Table 3: Statistics on Weekly Sectoral Contribution Sectors Banking Conglomerates Telecommunication Food Beverages and Tobacco Insurance Source: bra Limited

% of Total Trading Net Worth 68.51% 2.98% 0.19% 9.99% 1.20%

Trading Net Worth(in Naira Millions ) 4,709.80 205.10 13.34 686.15 82.83

Figure 1a: The All Share Index and braIndex® Performance at a Glance

Source: BRA Computation

Source: BRA Computation

industry was also active in terms of the market value of trading activity.

Dangote Flour Mills Plc, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Tantalizers Plc and National Salt Co. Plc were some of the most active stocks in the sub-sector.

Last week, shareholders in Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc, Ecobank Transnational Plc, Glaxo Smith Kline Plc and First Bank of Nigeria Plc, saw the value of their investments earning profit by almost five per cent while investors in the

West Africa Portland Cement Company Plc, Nigerian Bottling Company Plc and Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc made less than five per cent loss on a daily basis.

Points to note: The weekly stock market analysis reports the current position of the outlook of the stock of the companies listed on the Exchange and the aggregate market.

The NSE closed the 18th trading week on an undulating note. Further improvement is expected in the coming

week as the feedback on AMCON stocks impacted positively on overall performance at the same time because of the uncertainties surrounding current business activities. The expected improvement may, however, be small.

Historical analysis of trading volume shows that in the new week, the Banking, Insurance and Conglomerates stocks are likely to continue to be the toast of investors.

Disclaimer This report has been prepared for infor-

mation purposes only and for private use.

Whilst reasonable care had been taken in its production, bra Limited does not guarantee the correctness of its contents nor does the company accept liability for any loss arising from a reliance on its contents.

Kindly note that our suggested recommendations and other tactical actions are based on bra Limited best estimates which are guided by generally available information and our Proprietary Tools. This is not an invitation or a solicitation to deal in any stocks and we do not guarantee the future outcome of such recommendation.

50

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

CAPITAL MARKET Bond and Money Market Review

T

RADING at the bond market moderately rose by 1.15 per cent from N1.733 trillion a fortnight ago to N1.745 trillion last week.

The index at the market was bullish, starting the week at 1,429.06 points, rising by 1,033 basis points as against 906 basis points a fortnight ago, before ending the week at 1,439.39 points.

The average index stood at 1,434.77 points compared with 1,423.22 points the previous week.

The 30-day, 90-day and 365-day indices jumped by 30 bps, 35 bps and 50 bps to 1.17 per cent, 1.85 per cent and 3.12 per cent.

Among the 15 traded bonds, almost all their prices appreciated while those of two remained unchanged.

One had its price depreciated trivially. The top price gainer was the five-year bond, 4.40 per cent FGN April 2015, which appreciated by 122 basis points to close at 73.53.

The lowest was the seven-year bond, 9.20 per cent FGN June 2014 which slightly rose by 97 basis points to end the week at 92.82.

Last week, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was only able to sell foreign exchange worth $350 million to authorised dealers at the Wholesale Dutch Auction System (WDAS) window as against the $250 million a fortnight ago.

The dealers had demanded $383.33 million before the auction while the actual amount sold stood at $350 million.

Investors in treasury bills also parted with N126.73 billion on three different financial instruments maturing between three and 12 months.

The bonds comprised the N30.0 billion (91-day), N46.7 billion (182day) and N50.0 billion (364-day) tenors at the stop rate of 9.40 per cent, 10.40 per cent and 10.99 per cent . The public subscriptions were N58.017 billion, N74.017 billion and N178.773 billion for the 91-day, 182-day and 364-day coupons.

The over-the-counter bond market notched up by 2.59 per cent last week, yielding N160.43 billion with a turnover of 197.8 million units in 1,301 deals.

The amount compared favourably with the N157.84 billion invested on 192.8 million units in 1,296 deals a fortnight ago.

The activity was boosted by the 20-year bond, due in July 2030 with 10.0 per cent coupon rate. It traded 41.95 million units valued at N31.30 billion in 316 deals.

This was followed by the threeyear bond, 5.5 per cent Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) February 2013, which traded 33.55 million units valued at N30.04 billion in 281 deals. Sixteenof the available 34 FGN bonds were traded during the week, compared with 12 the previous week.

The margin bid of the WDAS started the week at N153.03/USD, appreciated by 33 kobo, before closing at N153.36/USD while the central rate stood at N152.52/USD in lieu of N152.44/USD recorded a fortnight ago.

The highest successful rate was N153.36/USD as against N152.92/ USD the previous week. At the interbank and parallel segments of the market, the rates also appreciated by 32kobo and 120kobo to close at N153.68/USD and N154.26/USD respectively.

The short term Nigerian Interbank Treasury Bills True Fixing Yield (NITTY) increased in April to 8.72 per cent on the 30- day bill to as high as 11.91 per cent on the one-year NTB. This represented an increase from the previous month’s values of 6.51 per cent and 9.02 per cent.

Figure three plots the NITT Yield curve for the last three months.

Capitalisation notches up by 1.15% Table 4: Key Statistics of Market’s Stock Performance as at May 4, 2011 S/N Company Name TOP FIVE GAINERS BY PRICE 01 CCNN Plc 02 Ecobank Transnational Plc 03 Glaxo Smith Kline Plc 04 First Bank of Nigeria Plc 05 Nestle Nigeria Plc TOP FIVE LOSERS BY PRICE 01 WAPCO Plc 02 NBC Plc 03 NAHCO Plc 04 VANLEER Plc 05 Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc Source: NSE and bra Limited Indicator Turnover Value Deals FGN Bond Index Market Capitalization Index Weekly Returns (%) Index Year-to-Date Returns (%) 1-Month Returns (%) 3-Month Returns (%) 12-Month Returns (%)

CurrentWeek 197.8 million N160.43 billion 1,301 1,439.39 N1.75 trillion 1.20 8.24 0.24 3.25 18.42

Share Price Gain (‘N)

% of Shares’ Gain by Investors

11.13 16.30 24.92 13.76 390.00

5.00% 3.95% 3.27% 2.99% 0.97%

40.19 35.23 9.35 14.70 85.10

-4.98% -4.91% -3.60% -2.19% -0.70% PreviousWeek 192.8 million N157.84 billion 1,296 1,429.06 N1.73 trillion 1.15 8.21 0.22 3.22 18.40

% Change 2.59 1.64 0.72 1.15 4.34 0.36 9.09 0.93 0.10

Source: BRA

Source: FMDA Primary Market Auction

Figure 3: Nigerian Short Term T-bill Yield Curves

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

51

52

THE NATION MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

LABOUR

How to check global economic downturn, by ILO T

HE International Labour Organisation (ILO) has suggested the way out of global economic doldrum.

According to its Director-General, Mr Juan Somavia, the solution lies in the concentration on a job-centred growth strategy.

Such a measure, he said, is a faster step towards global economic recovery, warning: “If we don’t, the economic recovery may take years to reach those who need it most, or it may not reach them at all.”

He said in an ILO global report on its recent meeting with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the global financial crisis has led to the highest level of unemployment ever recorded – 210 million people. He added that this has sharpened prior international concern about the failure of the global economy to generate enough decent work opportunities in all countries.

At the conference, the ILO and the IMF agreed to work together on two specific areas. They will explore the idea of a minimum social protection floor for the most vulnerable in all countries. This is a concept the United Nations (UN) and the ILO have been working on. The idea now is to bring the fiscal expertise of the IMF into the equation. It will also focus more, and work more closely on policies to create employment-rich growth.

There was also an agreement that social dialogue plays a key role in times of crisis, both as a way of building consensus around difficult issues and of ensuring that the social consequences of the crisis and its aftermath are taken fully into account. Finally, both institutions will continue to deepen their cooperation in support of the G20 and its Mutual Assessment Process aimed at ensuring strong, sustained and balanced global growth.

Somavia said official unemployment is only the tip of the iceberg, as millions are working in poverty. “Many women and men are working part-time when they want a full-time job.

Many are simply too discouraged to keep on looking for work. Half of the global work force is in different forms of vulnerable employment.

And four out of five have no access to basic social protection.

“We also have around 45 million young people entering the labour market each year.

Our 2010 report Global Employment Trends for Youth says of some 620 million economically active youth aged 15 to 24 years, 81 million were unemployed at the end of 2009 – the highest number ever. This is 7.8 million more than the global number in 2007. The youth unemployment rate increased from 11.9 per cent in 2007 to 13.0 per cent in 2009,”he said.

The report warns of the “risk of a crisis legacy of a ‘lost generation’ comprised young people who have dropped out of the labour market, having lost all hope of being able to work for a decent living.”

Somavia said the situation led to the first meeting of ILO and the IMF in 66 years.

“Despite this grim scenario, mostly coming from an imbalanced globalisation that was moving in the wrong direction, we are now seeing signs of a fragile recovery. But for millions of people and enterprises around the world, the crisis is far from over. We must concentrate on a jobs centred growth strategy as our number one priority. If we don’t, the economic recovery may take years to reach those who need it most, or it may not reach them at all. It was also significant because we heard first hand from the leaders of three countries – Greece, Liberia and Spain – that have been severely hit by the crisis and that are employing courageous and innovative meas-

ures to tackle its effects. But it was especially important because it was the first time in 66 years that the ILO and IMF met to see how they can best work together to solve very complex problems.”

He said the main message was that employment creation needs to be at the heart of the economic recovery. And that it was generally agreed that full employment should become a key macroeconomic objective alongside low inflation and sound fiscal accounts.

He said the ILO cannot allow the risk of a crisis legacy of a ‘lost generation’ comprised young people who have dropped out of the labour market, having lost all hope of being able to work for a decent living.

“We cannot let that happen. We must connect our policies with the real economy, people’s legitimate aspirations for a fair chance at a decent job.

“That’s why we organised the ILO/IMF Conference in Oslo last September. The Conference brought together the Managing Director of the IMF, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, a group of world leaders, senior representatives of employers’ and workers’organisations, members of academia and ILO representatives, including myself. To address immediate concerns, but also to help build the kind of future we need. To redress past imbalances so we can have sustainable, balanced and above all, inclusive growth,” he added.

He said the conference was significant because it took place at a time when the economic recovery is not translating into job creation. Governments, as well as workers and enterprises all around the world, are asking what can be done to reduce the human cost of the jobs crisis.

Another very important and related conclusion, according to him, was the need to stop treating employment and social policies as

separate from macroeconomic issues. He said the global economy is a lot more complex than that.

“We need better, deeper coordination between policies, as well as enhanced co-ordination between institutions and nations. This Conference marked an important step in that direction.

This is a process that started when IMF managing director visited the ILO Governing Body in March 2009 and that continued in the weeks and months ahead as we took part in the Millennium Development Goals Summit in New York and the November G20 meeting in Seoul.

“The Managing Director, Dominique StraussKahn has also agreed to address the International Labour Conference next year. But most importantly, this Conference has shown us the need to start working more closely together on issues that are far too complex to be looked at through only one lens.

“We must deal with rising inequalities, a growing informal economy, job-weak growth patterns, productivity gains with stagnant wages, absence of basic social protection, and many other shortcomings. Our meeting in Oslo has helped to define the steps that must be taken to bring millions back into the labour force. Tackling the jobs crisis is not only key to a meaningful global economic recovery, but also for social cohesion and peace,” he said.

Somavio added: “The ILO’s Decent Work Agenda is a source of personal dignity. Stability of family and households. Peace in the community. Trust in government and business and overall credibility of the institutions that govern our societies. Labour is much more than just a cost of production. This simple aspiration to have a fair chance at a decent job is at the top of the political agenda, at the top of opinion surveys.”

• Workers marking their day.

T

TUC, INEC quarrel over unionisation of workers

HE Trade Union Congress (TUC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of defying a court order to allow its workers to belong to the union.

TUC President-General Peter Esele said the Congress is set to confront the Commission after employing every necessary avenue to ensure it allows its workers to belong to the union.

Esele said: “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is supposed to nurture democratic ideals in the country, has denied thousands of its employees throughout the Federation their fundamental right to belong to Trade Union as guaranteed by Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution.

“This is in spite of the fact that the National Industrial Court (NIC), the Federal High Court, Abuja and the Court of Appeal, Abuja had separately ordered the Commission to allow its workforce to belong to the Trade Union.

Indeed, the Federal Ministry of Labour had, in a letter to the Commission, emphasised that the broad mandate of INEC and the specific duties of its employees all constitute civil func-

• Union seeks prosecution of Omehia tions of democratic governance and that it would be paradoxical to deny the INEC workers the democratic rights of association and unionisation.”

The Labour chief said the Attorney-General of the Federation’s intervention was also ignored by by INEC. Esele said the AGF wrote a letter to the INEC enjoining it to respect the labour law as it affects unionisation.

In a similar letter to INEC, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Muhammed Bello-Adoke (SAN), enjoined the Commission to comply with the various court orders and permit its employees to belong to Trade Union to enhance the cause of justice and rule of law in the country.

TUC, therefore, appealed to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to prevail on the INEC “to stop wasting public fund in pursuing frivolous litigations and grant its employees, who are free citizens of Nigeria, the right to belong to Trade Union”.

Condemning the various bombings and political killings in the country, the TUC called on the political class to learn to accept defeats as part of the game and refrain from acts capable of plunging the country into a state of anarchy. It also called for the arrest and prosecution of those who perpetrated the acts.

“Those arrested for taking part in the wanton killings of fellow Nigerians and destruction of properties should be prosecuted and if found guilty be made to face the penalty as prescribed by law no matter their social or political status in the country.

“The elections have come and gone. We implore losers to be gallant in defeat while winners should be magnanimous. We charge the new leadership to be responsive and operate according to their campaign manifestos. There must be no excuse for leadership failure this time around as the new leaders will be held accountable for their actions and inactions,” he said.

Esele condemned the attack on the TUC Election Monitoring Team led by him and Comrade Chika Onuegbu, TUC state chairman, Rivers State “by people under the command of Celestine Omehia, governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance(APGA) in the just-concluded governorship election.”

The Congress gave the Police one-week ultimatum to prosecute Omehia.

“TUC demands that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) should arrest and prosecute Omehia and his co- travellers within the next seven days, failing which we may be forced to consider deploying other options open to us which may include calling out our members on a national strike to protest against the assault on our National President.

“The Nigeria Police and other security agents must carry out their duty without fear, while those who want to lead must show good examples as we can no longer tolerate impunity by any politician no matter his/ her position,” said TUC.

MOTORING

53

THE NATION

MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011

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

0803-4693-984 tajudeen1423@yahoo.co.uk

email:- motoring@thenationonlineng.net

The 2011 Ford Edge has been heavily revised. Highlights include more power, updated exterior styling, reduced wind and road noise and improved interior quality among others, writes TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO with agency reports.

•Ford Edge

•Interior of the car.

Ford Edge: athletic look, comfortable ride D

ESPITE its name, the Ford Edge has not exactly been living an energised life recently. Compared to many of Ford’s impressively updated or redesigned vehicles in the last two years, the Edge can come off as being, well, a bit dull.

Thankfully, the sharpening stone has been brought for the 2011 Ford Edge, and one thinks this midsize crossover SUV is much better for it.

On the outside, this year’s Edge maintains its generally athletic look, with a more prominent chrome grille bracketed by trendy LED running lights. The Edge Sport model drops the chrome in favour of blackout trim and now gets 22-inch wheels as standard equipment. The grille might be a bit much, yet this is one of the most handsome crossovers out there.

The Edge’s familiar 3.5-litre V6 has been upgraded for 2011 to deliver 285 horsepower, a 20-hp gain. Fuel economy has gone up slightly, too.

Meanwhile, the Edge Sport receives an exclusive 3.7-litre engine that kicks out 305 hp and 280 pound-feet of torque. All Edge models also receive new braking hardware, which has improved brake feel and shortened its stopping distance by 20 per cent.

Both the look and the feel of the 2011 Edge’s interior are more premiums, thanks to bet-

ter materials and a high-tech electronics interface dubbed Ford’s MyTouch. Complementing the existing Sync system, MyTouch features a new touch screen display (it operates much like the screen of a smart phone) along with additional voice commands, and operates the Edge’s array of tech features.

The car is now a solid pick for a midsize five-passenger crossover, especially if those fond of its styling and technological features.

One could still recommend taking a look at the sharper-driving Nissan Murano or the family-friendly Toyota Avenza. And if you need a third row of seats, there are other crossovers to check out. But now that it is both innovative and rewarding to drive, the latest Edge finally lives up to its name.

Body styles The Edge crossover is available in SE, SEL, Limited and Sport trim levels.

The SE comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a six-speaker CD player with an auxiliary audio jack. The SEL gains 18-inch wheels, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, upgraded cloth upholstery, a six-way power driver seat, satellite radio and a trunkmounted second-row folding seat release.

Many of the additional features can be added to the lower trim levels via optional

packages. Other available options include (depending on trim level) 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, xenon headlights, adaptive cruise control, keyless ignition/entry, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system and an SD-card-based navigation system with real-time traffic and Sirius travel link.

Powertrains and performance The Ford Edge SE, SEL and Limited come with a 3.5-litre V6 that generates 285 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque. It’s connected to a sixspeed automatic transmission. The Edge Sport has a 3.7-litre V6 that spins out 305 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed auto is again standard for the Sport, but it also includes manual shift control. All trim levels come standard with front-wheel drive, and all but the SE can be equipped with all-wheel drive.

Safety Antilock disc brakes, stability control (with rollover avoidance logic), front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and blind-spot mirrors are all standard. The programmable Ford MyKey system, which can help make the Edge safer for teen drivers, also comes standard. Optional on all trims except the SE is a Vision package that includes blind-spot and cross-traffic monitoring systems.

In 2010 government crash tests, last year’s Ford Edge scored five stars (out of five) for

the driver and four stars for the passenger in frontal-impact tests, while it earned five stars in side-impact testing for both front and rear passengers. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, the Edge scored the highest possible rating of “Good” in both frontal-offset and side-impact testing.

Interior design and special features The car has a revamped interior with a more modern design and higher-quality materials, something especially noticeable on models equipped with MyFord Touch.

This new interface consists of three new display screens and the ability to input commands for various audio, phone and navigation functions via voice or touch controls.

The Edge’s front seats provide excellent support on longer trips, though some drivers will find the head restraints to be uncomfortably canted forward. In back, the reclining outboard seats are nicely shaped and offer satisfactory legroom, but headroom can be tight if you order the dual-pane “Vista Roof” option. Folding down the second row opens up a not-so-flat cargo floor and a max capacity of 69 cubes. That is more than a Nissan Murano can manage, but less than the Toyota RAV4 or larger crossovers like the Chevy Traverse or Ford Flex.

Driving impressions The 2011 Ford Edge is most notable for its comfortable ride, which soaks up road irregularities well without feeling floaty in the process. Though its steering does not provide much road feel, the Edge nevertheless feels solid and secure. Sport models feel slightly sharper and more agile, though their larger wheels degrade the ride quality a bit. Every 2011 Edge has additional acoustic insulation and the result is an impressively quiet highway ride.

The Edge Sport has more power as well as a manual shift mode for the transmission, but its power advantage is largely negated by a heavier curb weight.

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MOTORING

FRSC warns motorcyclists against number plates

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HE Bauchi Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has warned motorcyclists in the state against riding without registered number plates.

Malam Ibrahim Geidam, the Public Enlightenment Officer of the command, gave the warning while addressing journalists in Bauchi.

According to him, the Commission will not spare any person caught driving a motorcycle without an approved number plate.

He said the law made it clear that all motorcycles should be registered before they were put to use on the road.

“People riding unregistered motorcycles are being stopped by our men and booked for a fine of N3,000.

“Sometimes those persons arrested claim to be on their way to a funeral or to the hospital.

“For reasons such as these, we allow them to go but they go on to repeat the same offence a few days later,” he said.

Geidam said it was unfortunate that owners of the motorcycles impounded could

not register them in spite that they were using them to generate income.

He said another problem was that of parents who bought motorcycles for their children, especially school children, without registering them.

He called on such parents, wards, to ensure that they registered them to avoid being harassed by officials of FRSC. The commander also appealed to government agencies, individuals and corporate bodies who gave motorcycles to people as donations, to make sure they register them before the donations are made.

“Politicians, government or other bodies who are giving out motorcycles should try to register them for the beneficiaries so that they would not go through the rigours of registering the motorcycles themselves.

“For the ones on loan, the registration charges could be added to the loan,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Sector Command of the FRSC said last week in Ado-

DRIVING TIPS

Radiation and driving

Ekiti that it arrested 935 motorcyclists between January and April for various traffic offences.

Mr Francis Udoma, the Sector Commander, said the command’s special patrols apprehended 210 of the traffic offenders in January, 406 in February and 222 in March, with the remaining 97 arrested in April.

He said the traffic offenders were arrested at

T

T

HERE has been several debates on the reality and degree of electromagnetic radiation.

Research is still ongoing.

I decided to write an article on this topic because many more research reports are affirming the reality of electromagnetic ration with its dangerous effects on health and driving. Results of Quantum Magnetic Analyser also confirms this position.

Radioactive pollution comes from nuclear reactions (as being experienced in Japan right now), cellular or mobile phones, masts, x-rays, computer monitors, television sets, smoke detectors (the installation of this gadget is spreading fast in Nigeria now), and microwave ovens among others.

Consequence upon the ignorance of Nigerians concerning the effects level of electromagnetic radiation emission and the effects on their body systems, they often over-expose themselves to these hazards.

For example, it is common to see men stacking their pockets with up to four mobile phones. Some even engage in night conversation on mobile phones for up to five hours at a go daily.

In offices, some officers put their laptop computers on their laps, even right on top of their reproductive organs.

I want to highlight some vital points as they affect the health and performance of drivers depending on the intensity of exposure.

•Electromagnetic radiation can cause weakness.

• It can lead to listlessness • It can cause nausea and vomiting • It can complicate vision problem •It can lead to loss of coordination. Drivers need a high degree of coordination to be able to perceive hazards and

• Some motorcyclists waiting for passengers

Jide Owatunmise react to emergency situations.

• It can lead to dehydration • In extreme cases, it can lead to convulsion • It can lead to shock.

• It can cause headache • It can lead to other forms of complications and death.

In developed countries such as the United States , mobile phone manufacturers and telecommunication service providers are mandated to provide adequate information about the degree of electromagnetic radiation emission from their telephone sets, masts and other equipment. In Nigeria, virtually all the mobile phone users are kept in the dark about these vital information and most of the enlightenment by few well – meaning Nigerians are being suppressed by higher adverts. Some people are even bribing their ways to have telecommunication masts installed in their residential premises.

Consequent upon the effects of electromagnetic radiation which several research reports are corroborating, I hereby advice all categories of drivers to reduce their exposures to the gadgets that emits electromagnetic radiation.

I am not opposed to someone going about and sleeping with four or more mobile phones, but such a person must use anti-radiation device to reduce the impact.

Driving is a very complex task and a driver must always be physically and mentally fit to be able to control the vehicle safely in every driving environment.

Prevention is always better and cheaper than cure.

various locations across the 16 local government areas of the state, even as he noted that their offences ranged from number plate violation and overloading to failure to use safety helmets.

He said the lawbreakers were arrested at various locations across the 16 local government areas of the state and noted that their offences ranged from number plate

PHOTO: TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

til their owners had obtained the number plates for them.

“Apart from the regular patrol by the officials of the command, we had joint patrols with special marshals in all the local government areas every month.’’

Udoma explained that some of the traffic offenders would undergo one-week enlightenment programme

at the command’s headquarters in Ado-Ekiti, while others would pay various fines.

He counselled commercial motorcyclists to always carry passengers as prescribed by road safety rules and regulations, advising them to provide their passenger with crash helmets to avoid arrest.

The FRSC official said the command had instituted a regular monthly meeting with the leadership of the various commercial motorcyclists associations in the state so as to educate them on the need to adhere to the road safety code.

“We have realised that donors give out motorcycles without number plates; this is one of the greatest problems we have today. These motorcycles could be used to commit crime.

Besides, the command strongly advises all motorcycle donors to always get number plates from the state Board of Internal Revenue and buy helmets for the beneficiaries.

“That will reduce the rate of traffic offences in the state,’’ Udoma observed.

NRC assures of adequate security

HE Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has assured its commuters of adequate security on its trains.

The Lagos Railway District Manager (RDM), Mr John Dottie, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that security agents were always attached to every train.

Dottie was reacting to the killing of Osama Bin Laden, leader of the Al Queda group, and the tightening of security across the world to forestall reprisal actions by its members.

“We always have no fewer than three armed policemen and three NRC Man-O-War officials on the train for every trip to provide adequate security for passengers.

“We are also taking no

ARTICLE 5

chances on our trains, so the NRC is ensuring that adequate security is provided aboard our trains,’’ Dottie said.

According to him, the security of every commuter

has to be taken seriously.

He stated that there was an insurance cover on every ticket bought by the commuter.

Dottie added that goods lifted by train were also

protected and secured until they were delivered to the owners.

“The corporation is responsible for the goods until the final delivery,’’ he said.

Rainy season: motorists caution on hazards

T

HE Kaduna State Zonal Command of the Federal Road Safety Commisssion (FRSC) has cautioned motorists on hazards associated with driving in the rainy season in order to save lives and property.

Its Commanding Officer, Mr Samuel Obayemi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Kaduna that the caution was

aimed at reducing casualties of road crashes during the wet season.

Obayemi said motorists should desist from using second-hand tyres during the season as the tyres could lose their grip due to the wetness of the road, thereby resulting in brake failure.

“Most of the road crashes during the rainy season are associated with bad tyres and over-speeding.

“Motorists should desist from over-speeding and reckless overtaking whenever it rains.’’

On poor visibility, Obayemi said motorists could use their head lamps even during the day to avoid head-on collusion.

He advised motorists to ensure that their windscreen wipers were functional and to always be cautious of other road users, especially motorcyclists.

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FOREIGN NEWS US wants access to Bin Laden widows

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HE United States says it wants to talk to the three widows of Osama bin Laden, who are in Pakistani custody.

National security adviser Tom Donilon says information from them could help answer questions about whether Pakistani authorities helped hide the al-Qaida leader while he was on the run.

He made the comments in an interview broadcast yesteday NBC’s “Meet the Press.”

Bin Laden was shot dead in a large house in the town of Abbottabad close to a military academy after decade-long hunt.

Donilon said Washington has seen no evidence the Pakistani government or elements within it colluded to shield bin Laden, but Pakistani authorities “need to provide us with intelligence ... from the compound that they’ve gathered, including access to Osama bin Laden’s three wives.”

Pakistani authorities still have three of Osama bin Laden’s wives and eight of his children in custody, nearly a week after the U.S. raid that killed the Saudi terrorist leader, and no countries have asked for their return, the government said Sunday.

Pakistan gained custody of bin Laden’s family members after the covert US operation on May 2 that killed the al-Qaida chief and four others at his hide-out in the northwestern city of Abbottabad and further strained relations between the two nations.

Two Muslim leaders dropped from US flight

T

WO Muslim religious leaders were asked to leave a commercial plane in Memphis and were told it was because the pilot refused to fly with them aboard.

The two men had been on the way to a conference on Islamophobia on Friday.

Masudur Rahman, a professor of Arabic at the University of Memphis, and Mohamed Zaghloul, Imam at the Islamic Association of Greater Memphis, were asked to deplane Atlantic Southeast Airlines flight 5452 from Memphis to Charlotte. Mr Rahman said they were subjected to addi-

U

US presses Pakistan on Bin Laden

NITED States President Barack Obama has called on Pakistan to investigate the network that sustained Osama Bin Laden in his hideout where he was killed last week.

Obama told CBS show 60 Minutes the government in Islamabad had to find out if any of its officials knew of the al-Qaeda leader’s whereabouts.

An Obama administration official said the US wanted to speak to Bin Laden’s widows, who are in Pakistani custody.

Pakistan has denied knowing Bin Laden was holed up in Abbottabad.

In an interview being broadcast on Sunday, President Obama told CBS the alQaeda leader must have had “some sort of support net-

work” in Pakistan, but he did not know whether it included government officials.

“We don’t know whether there might have been some people inside of [Pakistan’s] government, people outside of government, and that’s something that we have to investigate and, more importantly, the Pakistani government has to investigate,” the US president said in the interview, which was conducted on Wednesday.

US National Security Adviser Tom Donilon meanwhile told NBC talk show Meet the Press that Islamabad needed to establish how Bin Laden lived for six years a short drive from the capital and beside a military academy.

With Bin Laden dead, there has been speculation about

whether his deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, will take over as al-Qaeda leader.

But Mr Donilon said the Egyptian “is not anywhere near the leader that Osama Bin Laden was”.

He also said the Pakistani authorities needed to provide the US with access to Bin Laden’s three widows, who were taken into custody after last week’s US commando raid.

American officials have meanwhile been poring over computer files seized by US special forces from the hideout.

“It’s [the intelligence cache] about the size, the CIA tells us, of a small college library,” said Mr Donilon.

On Saturday, the Pentagon released from the material five home videos featuring

Bin Laden, with the audio removed.

They included a message by the al-Qaeda leader to the US and footage of Bin Laden watching an item about himself on TV. US officials said the Abbottabad compound was a command and control centre from where Bin Laden had actively led al-Qaeda.

Activists in in Multan, Pakistan, condemn the US for the killing of Osama Bin Laden, on 8 May 2011 Some Pakistanis have been angered by last week’s US raid on its soil But an unidentified senior Pakistani intelligence official told Reuters news agency on Sunday: “It sounds ridiculous. It doesn’t sound like he was running a terror network.”

tional security checks after the plane had left the gate.

After additional screening, the two men were cleared by Delta representatives to reboard the plane, but were then told the pilot would not take them.

Atlantic Southeast Airlines, a regional partner operating as a Delta Connection, apologised for any inconvenience caused, but offered no further explanation.

The flight “returned to the gate to allow for additional screening of a passenger and the passenger’s companion. We take security and safety very seriously, and the event is currently under investigation,” an airline statement said.

•Egyptian Coptic Christians protesting after deadly clashes with Muslims in Cairo...yesterday

PHOTO: AFP

Clashes in Cairo leave 12 dead

E

GYPT’s military rulers vowed yesterday to crack down on religious violence after 12 people died in clashes in a Cairo suburb sparked by unconfirmed suspicions that Christians had abducted a woman who converted to Islam.

The inter-faith conflict on Saturday was Egypt’s worst since 13 people died in violence on March 9 that followed a church burning and threw down a new challenge for generals ruling the country since the overthrow of President Hosni Mubarak.

Prime Minister Essam Sharaf canceled a tour of Gulf Arab states to chair a cabinet

meeting where the government decided to deploy more security near religious sites and toughen laws criminalizing attacks on places of worship.

Tension was high and the army cordoned off streets near the Saint Mina church, where about 500 conservative Salafist Muslims massed on Saturday to call on Christians to hand over the woman.

The Salafists were joined by other Muslims who demanded access to the church to see if the woman was inside. Tensions flared, gunfire broke out and the two sides exchanged firebombs and stones, witnesses said.

Soldiers and police fired shots in the air and used teargas to separate the two sides but stone-throwing in streets near the church went on through the night.

A power cut plunged the neighborhood into darkness, making it harder for the security forces to quell the violence.

Another church nearby, Saint Mary’s, was set on fire and badly damaged. One witness said the fire at Saint Mary’s was started by thugs and that the Salafists had tried to stop them.

Confused accounts of who stoked the violence and began the shooting led to heated arguments in the working class

neighborhood’s narrow streets on Sunday.

“God knows if the story of this convert girl is true or rumors but, regardless, she does not add to Islam or reduce Christianity,” said Dina Mohamed, a housewife living near Saint Mary’s. “Why are we focused on such matters when we are in a country that can barely stand on its feet?”

As bulldozers cleared away the debris at Saint Mary’s on Sunday, an argument broke out between a group of Muslims and Christians in front of the church, attracting a bigger crowd. Security forces fired shots in the air and the crowd dispersed.

Al Qaeda leader, 17 others killed in Iraq jail clash

E

IGHTEEN people, including an al Qaeda leader and a senior Iraqi counter-terrorism official, died in a battle between inmates and security officers during a jailbreak attempt in Baghdad yesterday, security officials said.

Huthaifa al-Batawi, known as al Qaeda’s “Emir of Baghdad” and the alleged architect of a deadly attack on a Catholic church, was killed along with 10 other senior al Qaeda militants, said Baghdad’s security spokesman Major-General Qassim alMoussawi.

The skirmish at an Interior

Ministry counter-terrorism unit jail complex in Baghdad’s central Karrada district began when a prisoner grabbed a gun from a guard, killed several guards and ministry officers, and gave a weapon to other inmates, Moussawi said.

Inmates controlled a section of the facility for several hours before a SWAT team brought the siege to an end, security officials said.

The jail housed about 250 inmates, many of them members of al Qaeda, one source said.

“Security forces and guards responded to the jail of the

counter-terrorism department and killed 11 terroristprisoners ... including Huthaifa al-Batawi, the Emir of Baghdad, who was in charge of planning the church attack,” Moussawi said.

Moussawi said seven security officers — including Brigadier Muaid Mahdi, head of investigations at the counterterrorism unit — were killed in the skirmish and one other was wounded.

A senior security official who asked not to be named said eight terrorism suspects, most facing death sentences, were killed along with nine

security officers, three of them senior officials.

Batawi was arrested along with 11 others in late November in connection with the October 31 assault on Our Lady of Salvation church during Sunday mass. Dozens of hostages and police died when Iraqi forces tried to free more than 100 Catholic hostages.

The attack was the bloodiest against Iraq’s Christian minority since the 2003 U.S.led invasion.

Security officials said it was Batawi who started the jail battle by seizing a guard’s gun in an attempt to flee.

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SPORT EXTRA

E

NYIMBA FC of Aba, the Peoples Elephant are through to the group stage of the money-spinning CAF Champions League after a hard earned 1-0 victory over Al Ittihad of Libya.

Enyimba at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba relied on a 67th minute penalty converted by Victor Barnabas to end the hope of Libyan Al Ittihad and a berth in the round robin.

The match was a rather drab and forgettable half, very much like watching a wet paint dry with both teams contented with playing around in their half of the field.

Enyimba played a rather uncoordinated and lacked the character and the firepower and the vibe expected of a team that wanted to progress to the next round.

There was not so much anxious moments with the highlight of the first half on the part of the Peoples’ Elephant been a long range effort from Josiah Maduabuchi which was prevented from going into the net by the Al Ittihad goal keeper but was put on the path of Victor Barnabas who apparently didn’t know what to do with the seemingly golden opportunity to put his team in the lead as he ballooned the ball.

On the part of Al Ittihad, the Nigerian import in their fold, Azuka Izu proved to be too handful to the Peoples Elephant tormenting the Nigerian reps defence throughout the first and most part of the second half. He got the better of the Enyimba defence in the 43rd minute and his long range ef-

CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Enyimba through to group stage From Tunde Liadi and Florence Nkem Israel, Aba fort was caught at the second attempt by Chijioke Ejiogu in goal for Enyimba.

With pressure of time mounting on the game at the resumption of the second half, Enyimba’s efforts at scoring met brick wall resistance from the determined Libyans who chose to make the most of the encounter. But with a goal mouth tussle at the Libyan goal area, Enyimba got advantaged and was awarded a penalty which was scored by Victor Barnabas in the 67th minute.

Speaking with NationSport after the encounter, The Technical Adviser of Enyimba, Okey Emordi admitted that his players played poorly but was happy that the team got what was enough to make it to the next round.

“I will not say that I am very impressed but there were a lot of problems on our side and we had to push on. I must have to applaud the boys for making this effort because if not for them we could have gone out of the game.

“The players did not play up to expectations because of in-

juries to key players but we just had to manage what we had. We had so many missed

C •Manchester United's Wayne Rooney (R) challenges Chelsea's Jo

Victory signposts bright Dolphins’ future —Eguma

A

From Florence Nkem Israel, Port Harcourt yet time to celebrate.

“It is our first trophy for this season and it means a bright future for us especially now that the league is about to resume, but it not yet time to celebrate because the league is a different ball game all together. We still have a long way to go and so I call on the

Ibenegbu confident ahead of UPER Eagles’ player WAFU semis Ikechukwu Ibenegbu,

S

is confident that Nigeria’s B team are capable of putting up another sterling display when they play in the semifinal of the WAFU Nations Cup on Thursday.

Nigeria romped to a 4 – 0 win over Niger Republic on Saturday to maintain their 100 per cent record in the regional tournament. The result also sealed a semi-final berth for the hosts.

Ibenegbu said: “We played well in the second match than the first and I am confident that we will play better in the next match.”

The Heartland attacking midfielder also known as Mosquito grabbed a brace for Nigeria in the 4 – 0 thumping scoring in the third and 36th minutes of the game, while Ehiosun Ekigho and Agwuocha White completed the rout on 57 and 90 minutes respectively.

Ibenegbu said his goals were as a result of great team work.

“I think I scored two goals because we played very, very well as team. Ejike (Uzoenyi) and Ekigho made the game look easy with the way they played. Also my teammates on the field played their roles very well and that is why we won in a convincing way.”

“But I must say that I am happy that I got two goals and that we played well because we were not at our best in the first match though we won.

Also, the weather has not been fair but we have adapted and are now looking forward to our next match by the grace of God,” said Ibenegbu.

The former U-23 national team member is also happy that they kept clean sheets in their last two games, “It is good that we didn’t concede any goal in our matches.

Hopefully we will continue that way in the next match.”

MANCHESTER United need just one more point to seal a record-breaking 19th Premier League title after they claimed a 2-1 victory over Chelsea in their clash at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Javier Hernandez took just 36 seconds to break the deadlock as he seized on a David Luiz error to net his 20th goal of the season.

Skipper Nemanja Vidic headed home a Ryan Giggs cross in the 23rd minute as United deservedly doubled their advantage although Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou both went close for the visitors before half-time.

Chelsea threatened an unlikely comeback after Frank Lampard’s 68th-minute strike restored hope but a relieved Sir Alex Ferguson saw his side cling on for a deserving triumph.

The defending champions needed a win to leapfrog

United on goal difference but Carlo Ancelotti’s men are now six points behind with just two games remaining.

The result also finished off Arsenal’s faint title hopes after the Gunners suffered a 3-1 defeat at Stoke earlier in the day.

Kenwyne Jones and Jermaine Pennant put the Potters ahead in the first half and although Robin van Persie pulled one back late on, Jon Walters produced an immediate response to ensure a comfortable finish for the hosts.

Arsene Wenger’s side now trail United by nine points but in truth they had effectively blown their chances of ending a six-year wait for a trophy several weeks ago.

Meanwhile, Steven Fletcher scored twice to help lift Wolves out of the Premier League bottom three with a 3-1 victory over local rivals West Brom at Molineux.

Obudu ranch to provide sporting needs of West Africa

RIVERS FA FALLOUT

FTER defeating sister club, Sharks fc to lift 2011 state FA Cup trophy, the team manager of Dolphins, Stanley Eguma says the victory signifies a bright future for his club.

Leading the premier league table with 43 points, Eguma feels the first trophy for his club this year would bring more luck their way as they prepare for the second round of the season but say it is not

chances because of pressure and anxiety but that is normal in football.”

Man Utd beats Chelsea in crucial clash

players to be focused and remain concentrated on what we have ahead of us”.

Dolphins dethroned Sharks over the weekend to lift the state FA Cup trophy after a very interesting encounter which majority confessed that it is the most exciting and ten-

sion free encounter between the two clubs for a long time now.

Derek Amadi opened the scoreline in the second minute with an equalizer coming from Gomo Onduku in the eleventh minute.

A careless pass from goalkeeper, Okiemute Odah got intercepted by Derek Amadi as he fired into the post again for a second goal for Dolphins.

Gomo Onduku sealed the scoreline in the fifty second minute. The encounter stretched into penalty shoots which ended 9-8 in favour of Dolphins.

ROSS River State Government intends to build high altitude sporting facility at the Obudu Mountain Resort to enable athletes from the West African subregion prepare for international sporting competitions.

Mr. Nzan Ogbe, Special Adviser Governor’s Office/ Events Management disclosed this in an interactive session with newsmen at the resort, explaining that rather than travel overseas for such training, the ranch is blessed with a temperate climate to render such services when the vital sporting facilities are put in place.

Ogbe disclosed that though Cross River State might not be as rich as other industrialized states, it is blessed with natural tourism assets throughout its length and it sees the ranch “as the jewel of our tourism asset’, adding that the State is a place to come and relax as well as refresh because it is clean, green, quiet and safe.

He identified the challenges

From Kunle Johnson, Calabar of the Obudu Ranch Resort to include poor road network as a tourists spend about five hours on road while travelling from Calabar as well as lack electricity from the national grid as electricity is powered from generators to operate all the facilities daily, and hoped the President’s visit would help reposition the resort.

The Special Adviser stated that the resort is viable for expansion as currently it attracts 80 percent occupancy while it is still in the first phase of its five development stages.

Mr. Gabe Onah, Special Adviser - Tourism, explained that the State’s tourism programme is being worked out in phases with emphasis on job creation for the boys and girls, stating that locals of the Obudu Ranch Resort have been trained to be involved in every facility in order to instill service delivery.

TOMORROW IN THE NATION

MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

‘The grim truth is that the world needs healing; and both America, the top dog; and Al-Qaeda, the vengeful underdog, have absolutely no clue how to bring about that healing, being only two sides of a savage global coin.’

OLAKUNLE ABIMBOLA

VOL. 6, NO. 1,754

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

Z

ONING was the supreme word in our political conversation last year, and President Jonathan won. He won by defeating those who fought for zoning at the polls. His triumph in the presidential election has reaffirmed the death and burial of zoning.

In the white heat of the debate, President Jonathan came out and denied that the PDP ever had any gentleman’s agreement or any party clause on zoning. Those who did not want him to be president only did so because of individual ambition and ethnic prejudice. He, Jonathan, like any Nigerian, had the right to compete for the marque prize of politics: the presidency.

It was not about Niger Delta. It was about the best man for the job.

So to all intents and purposes, zoning has died. Long live anti-zoning.

Or are we wrong? Why is the word coming up on newspaper headlines again? Why did David Mark go all the way to Obudu to meet the President to discuss the possibility of his support to become president of the senate again? What of all the discussion about the cabinet of Jonathan reflecting the principle of zoning?

Does the president know that he who killed zoning is about to bring it back from the dead? It would mean that Jonathan killed zoning because a living zoning was a clear and present danger to his ambition. It would mean he would not have run for the position. It would mean he would not have won the election. It would also imply that he would be packing his all to his village in the quiescent Bayelsa to chew his cud for the rest of his life.

So with all the might of the presidency, he unleashed the silver bullet and brought down the big, fat animal called zoning.

That is the irony. It is not that Jonathan does not believe in zoning. He just does not believe it should apply to him. This is the egoism of politicians. They are the only reference point of all matters. Harold Wilson, former British Prime minister, called himself the optimist. He encapsulated the temperament of the breed. When his position was being challenged, and somebody asked him, “What’s going on?” his answer was predictable except for the theatrical way he answered it. He quipped: “I am going on.”

Well, I am happy that zoning is back on our political front burner. Zoning is important in this country because of the panoply of ethnic nationalities, and the sensitivities of suspicions and jealousies associated with it.

Even in the United States, where merit takes precedence over consideration of lineages and backgrounds, the system has over time accepted the need to reflect the variety of its peoples in its institutions. They do this without compromising merit. What that means is that not one group has a monopoly of wis-

SAM OMATSEYE

IN TOUCH

samo@thenationonlineng.net 08054501081(sms only) •Winner, Informed Commentary 2009 (D.A.M.E) •Columnist of the Year 2009 (NMMA)

I thought zoning was dead

•Dr. Jonathan

dom, and each group can throw up its best and be accepted by all. The emergence of Obama was not a charity case. He fought to win, and his Presidency has been a relentless battle to prove his mettle.

The problem with Jonathan’s case was that he did not use persuasion but the subtle coercion of state and the blackmail of the weak.

He could have argued, as I did in one of my columns, by appealing to the exceptional conditions of the Niger Delta, rather than the ultimate right of him as Jonathan to run. No one big part of the country should be stronger than the smallest part of it, according to the philosopher.

But I am with Jonathan as he seeks to use his leadership to pursue zoning in his cabinet and the National Assembly. In the National Assembly, two important positions call my curiosity: the senate presidency and the speaker of the House of Representatives.

David Mark wants that position again, and I don’t particularly fancy his last stewardship

RIPPLES

as the helmsman of the senate. He handled the position as though it was a military fiefdom. It was clearly not a stellar position.

But that is not the real point. It is about the justice of zoning. The Northeast is pitching its tent for the position. It seems compelling to me. The Northwest seems to come across as the only important region followed by the North Central. Already we have the vicepresident who hails from the Northwest, and the Northeast should have its day under the sun.

The former president, Umaru Yar’Adua was from the Northwest, and he held sway as the man of that region. Now, Vice President Namadi Sambo has stepped in also from the Northwest being an indigene of Kaduna State.

The argument being thrown up by the Northeast senators with regards to the postelection violence does not hold much water for me. Their tendency is to compare it with the Southwest feverous streets in the wake

HARDBALL

Buhari can show concern

A

FTER all the mayhem and butchery of the Northern riots, I thought Gen. Buhari ought to have shown a humanitarian side. He should not only have come out with a speech dissociating himself from the boys of slaughter. He should have appointed a time to visit with the families of the victims of the turbulence. This is a simple symbolism that our leaders need do to show public empathy. Our leaders do this much, though. They take it for granted that it is only when big men and big women die that governors and presidents and others in high political office could show heart and tenderness. That is wrong. The ordinary people matter.

In this very matter, Buhari needed to shake off his aloof image by saying a few words of tenderness and a face of concern. If he can come out and make assertions of rigged elections, he can demonstrate a show of public love. It is not too late.

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Forward to the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal

20 COMMUNITIES WITHOUT LIGHT FOR 2 YEARS CRY OUT– News

Y Monday, it is expected that the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) will be at the Court of Appeal to file a petition against the election of Dr Goodluck Jonathan as president of Nigeria.

The party, not its candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, on Friday already filed a preliminary application to kick-start its litigation against the outcome of the April 16 presidential election. Recall that in 2007, Buhari’s party, the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), declined to go to court over the presidential election of that year. The candidate was, however, adamant he wanted to fight the case in the tribunal. He did and lost, according to him, narrowly. This time around, it is said the candidate is uninterested in going to court, while the party is all worked up over the case.

A few days before this year’s presidential election, Buhari, seeing defeat staring him in the face, wept in anticipation of an electoral outcome he believed was unlikely to favour him. He was remarkably prescient.

Not only did the election of April 16 not

B

Don’t cry...just pray for more SUNLIGHT

‘That is the irony. It is not that Jonathan does not believe in zoning. He just does not believe it should apply to him. This is the egoism of politicians. They are the only reference point of all matters’

of the June 12 annulment. To concede this argument to the Northeast is to consecrate their acts of violence and impunity where many innocent Southerners died. You don’t reward murder with appointments. But the point needs to be made that the Northeast has helped to give Jonathan his desired spread and numbers. He can give them that support. They contend that they did not get any major such appointment since 1999, and that is a good point.

Mark is from North Central, and he has had his share, and we don’t need a doctrine of necessity for him to make a case for him.

Jonathan should not pay Mark for that. It would be unfair to the position and loftiness of the senate presidency.

As for the speakership, the failure of Bankole at the polls has opened the position.

This time, the argument is that it should go to the Southeast. The Southwest is a predominantly Action Congress of Nigeria affair, and unless they want to give it to the ACN, the only way to look is East. They won’t want to give it to the opposition. They would want to give it to those who have been with them.

Their governors, including the egotist from Ogun State and the bejewelled illiterate from Oyo, all failed to deliver. The Southwest belongs to the progressives, so they should not appoint a retrogressive person to represent Southwest when a preponderance of the representatives are ACN. So, the Southeast is the place to go for that position.

But I return to the point earlier made, that this zoning strangely is always good for our democracy. But Jonathan has eaten his cake and he is having it with zoning. We cannot roll back the hand of the clock. It is the bad thing about democracy. Some precedents destroy the future. It is unfortunate.

favour him, he lost by a margin that didn’t do justice to his reputation and fame. In heading for the tribunal, it is curious Buhari and his party neither anticipate the outcome of the petition nor are they sensitive to the spirit of the times. The CPC is of course entitled to go to court, for litigation, rather than violence, is the most civilised option to seek redress. And of course the party should be encouraged to go to court to help develop the legal system and inculcate a culture of abjuring violent self-help in time of crisis.

But except perhaps to the CPC, it was apparent after the violent protests that greeted the presidential poll that the country was shocked to its marrows at the scale of destruction perpetrated by those who claimed to be aggrieved supporters of the CPC. Indeed, what horrified the country the most about the post-election violence was the killing of about nine young National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members by supporters of the CPC. Far beyond the indefensible burning of places of worship, the death of the promising

youngsters and their grieving parents seared an indelible and agonising impression on the minds of most Nigerians. At that point, even if it was true that the CPC had been cheated out of the elections, the party lost its case with the public everywhere, North and South.

This horrible impression was compounded by the inability of the CPC leadership to vigorously condemn the violence and take remedial steps to soothe the pains of grieving parents. It is true they distanced themselves from the violence, but few were convinced of the genuineness of the CPC leaders. Now, they are in court, perhaps hoping to get redress over a matter they have completely lost sympathy. It is hard to explain why they can’t seem to read the signs. Every day they appear in court, they will understand little by little why no one is interested in their case, for clearly the plaintiffs would be reminding those who lost their children of the anguish that overwhelmed their families and the madness that overcame a few northern cities after the presidential poll.

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