The Nation May 04, 2012

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

News Lagos issues four-day quit notice to tanker drivers P8 Sports Chelsea must win FA Cup tomorrow, says Mikel P24 Business AMCON to seize foreign assets of bank debtors P11 www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 7, NO. 2113 FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

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A group of armed robbers came with a Volkswagen Golf car, opened fire and started extorting money from us. Our people resisted and caught one of them ... the robbers escaped and came back around 6:00pm with explosive materials, burnt down all the buildings, cars and structures in the cattle market and shot at everyone.

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•SCENE

OF HORR OR: The burnt livestock market ... yesterday HORROR

Gunmen kill 60 in attack on livestock market

Police: 34 dead, 29 hospitalised 40 cows, 17 vehicles burnt

R

•Gaidam

AZED homes, burnt cows, scorched trees and vast grounds covered with black ashes. That was all that was left yesterday of the once throbbing Potiskum livestock market.

Some unknown gunmen, in commando style, stormed the market late Wednesday, shooting indiscriminately and throwing explosives.

From Duku Joel, Damaturu

The traders said they lost 60 people. The police said 34 died.

Potiskum is the major commercial city in Yobe State. Damaturu is the state capital.

The livestock market, West Africa’s largest, was filled to the brim on Wednesday.

It is located between two security

check points manned by the military and the police – less than one kilometre of each other.

It was gathered that there was an early morning attack at about 11.00 am when a suspected armed robber was allegedly killed by some traders.

Ardo Abdullahi, one of the traders relived the horror. He said: “While we were in the market, a

group of armed robbers came in a Volkswagen Golf car, opened fire and started extorting money from us (traders). Our people resisted and caught one of them. The suspect was beaten and burnt to death by angry traders.

“I suspect that the remaining robbers escaped and came back around Continued on page 4

•CITYBEATS P8 •SPORTS P23 •SOCIETY P25 •BRAND P29 •SHOPPING P31

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

2

NEWS

Nigeria: Boko Peeved about “inaccurate reporting” and a supposedly mistranslated YouTube video, the Islamist militants targets the media.

T

•Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (middle), NLC President Comrade Wahid Omar (left) and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Comrade Peter Esele, during a visit to the National Assembly complex in Abuja... yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

•Governor Adams Oshiomhole and Chairman, Dangote Group Alhaji Aliko Dangote during the businessman's condolence visit to the governor, whose convoy was involved in a crash in which three journalists attached to the Governor's press crew recently died...yesterday PHOTO: NAN

HE Islamist extremist sect known as Boko Haram posted a YouTube video yesterday celebrating its attacks on Nigerian newspapers, and threatening several other media houses and the government.

At least nine people died in the bombings of two offices of ThisDay newspaper last week, in Abjua and Kaduna and many others were injured. The video showed a clip of the ThisDay office blowing up, suggesting someone had been waiting for the explosion with a camera, and close-up shots of the rubble after the explosion.

In the video, the group vowed to attack seven Nigerian newspapers and Voice of America’s Hausa language service. It also warned that four other news sources, including Radio France International in Hausa were “on the verge” of becoming targets, according to a translation posted on Sahara Reporters, a foriegn-based web site that was also threatened in the video.

“These media houses have committed a lot of offences that [are] detrimental to Islam, and we don’t have the power to forgive them,” reads the Sahara Reporters translation.

“We will take revenge on them by God’s grace.”

The new wave of deadly extremist bombings is ramping up pressure on President Goodluck Jonathan to roll out a strategy to control the violence.

“With every bombing incident naturally the government will come under serious pressure from the citizens to do something about the problem,” said Abubakar Umar Kari, a University of Abuja lecturer. “The average Nigerian is so pissed off now — sorry to use the word — is so helpless that he or she has literally given up.”

The growing anger at the violence is easy to see.

Hundreds of Nigerians flocked to the site of the explosion in Abuja of ThisDay, a prominent Nigerian newspaper, on Thursday. Many shouted at security forces and police, demanding the government stop the violence.

“Are you a journalist?” one man barked, as another passed him with a notebook. “Tell them there is no security in Nigeria,” the man said, pointing his finger to the ground.

“There is no security in Nigeria.”

ThisDay and other newspaper offices were also bombed in the northern city of Kaduna.

The Boko Haram sect is blamed for the deaths of 450 people so far this year, according to Human Rights Watch.

President Goodluck Jonathan is making an effort to show leadership in the crisis.

On Saturday Jonathan visited the site of the newspaper bombing in Abuja, telling journalists the bombings of the newspapers ThisDay, the

UN, US, Britain condemn attacks on media houses • Ministry sets up committee to check terrorists From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja and Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

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•Niger State Governor Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu during the inauguration of 283 palliative vehicles at the Trade Fair Complex, Minna...yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

•Anambra State Governor Peter Obi (right), Anglican Communion Primate Nicholas Okoh (middle) and other clerics at the inauguration of the Episcopal House of the church in Onitsha...yesterday

S the world marks the 2012 World Press Freedom Day, the United Nations, United States of America (USA) and Britain yesterday deplored the growing spate of attacks on media freedom and journalists across the world.

They spoke in Abuja yesterday while delivering their massages at an occasion marking the World Press Freedom Day. The UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, in his message delivered at the occasion by Louise Setshwaelo, maintained that the freedom of expression underpins every other freedom and provides a foundation for human dignity.

He said: “Media freedom faces severe pressure across the world. Last year, UNESCO condemned the killing of 62 journalists who died as a result of their work.

“Those journalists must not be forgotten and these crimes should not remain unpunished. As media moves online, more journalists including bloggers, are being harassed, attacked and killed for their work. They must receive the same protection as traditional media workers.” He added U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Terence McCulley condemned the recent attack on ThisDay and other media houses, describing it as a threat to freedom itself.

He said: “Unfortunately in many parts of the world the media still face a great challenge in the discharge of their duty. We have seen that graphically illustrated here in Nigeria recently with the despicable attack on ThisDay in Abuja and Kaduna.

“This attack against the freedom of Press itself, it is an assault on freedom itself. We are reminded again of the recent death of two journalists covering the crisis in Syria.”

The Charge d’ Affaires of the British High Commission, Mr. Giles Lever, said the safety and security of journalists was essential to guaranteeing the right of expression of humanity.

He said: “The timing of this year’s event couldn’t have been more accurate giving the recent despicable attack against the offices of This Day office in Abuja and the office building hosting ThisDay, the Moment, and the Daily Sun Newspapers in Kaduna, as well as recent direct threats designed to intimidate and stifle media reporting.”

Permanent Secretary of Ministry of the Interior, Mr Linus Awute, said the ministry has set up a committee to hunt down criminals and all enemies of government.

He said: “Today, ThisDay office has been bombed and a lot of lives lost. It is a big shame that innocent people are massacred in this country everyday.

But those of us who are alive should wake up and go beyond professionalism in our work to real patriotism in order to be able to check instances of terror and insecurity in this country. ”I am a government functionary and as the chief accounting officer of this ministry I also know that of all the people that are in the payroll of government not all are actually working for government.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

3

NEWS

Haram bombs the media ‘ Moment and The Sun were attacks on all of Nigeria, and the entire world.

When asked if he would consider renewing the negotiations that broke off in March, the president equivocated.

“They are correct to say we should dialogue,” he said. “Those who are saying we should not dialogue are also correct. When you have a terrorist situation, you also look at the global best practice.”

Many Nigerians want a stronger response than that. They say the government has failed to stop the relentless assaults from Boko Haram.

If security forces cannot stop them with guns, they say, it is time for the government to find out what the group wants and negotiate.

In a plaza near the Abuja bomb, the windows of every surrounding building were shattered.

Abdulmalik Jega, the building manager, argued that the government needs to change its approach to fighting the militant sect. He said fighting the group has been an obvious failure and it is time to find out what Boko Haram really wants in exchange for peace.

“They should sit down with those people (and ask), what is your problem,” said Jega. “What do you need?

What are your problems? What is the problem between you and the Nigerian people and then you and the government?”

Boko Haram says it wants to establish Shariah law in Nigeria and demands release of its jailed members, but most observers say the underground group’s true intentions are not clear.

The sect has been blamed for more than 1,000 deaths since it began violent operations in 2009. In January, coordinated attacks in Kano killed nearly 200 people and crippled the economy of Nigeria’s second-larg-

MEDIA HOUSES UNDER THREAT • The Nation • Punch • Vanguard • Sahara Reporters • Radio France (Hausa Service) • VOA (Hausa Service) • The Guardian • National Accord • Daily Trust • Leadership est city.

The Boko Haram violence should not be confused with Nigeria’s problem of sectarian clashes in northern Nigeria. At least 1,000 people were killed in ethnic or sectarian violence in Jos in 2010 alone, according to Human Rights Watch. These clashes are also continuing, with six people killed on Tuesday.

On Friday, National Security Advisor General Andrew Owoye Azazi said the policies of the country’s ruling party, led by President Jonathan, have fueled the growth of Boko Haram. He said the party created, “a climate of what is happening and manifesting in the country today,” according to Nigeria’s Vanguard news.

Jonathan refuted the accusation, saying Azazi’s comments may have been misinterpreted.

“I don’t believe that the National Security Adviser meant that the prac-

tices of the PDP [Peoples Democratic Party] are anti-democratic,” he said.

“I don’t believe that it is the undemocratic practices in the PDP that could give rise to Boko Haram or any other groups.”

Boko Haram told Nigeria’s Premium Times that the newspaper attacks were a response to what it says is biased, false reporting. A Boko Haram spokesperson, who identified himself as Abul Qaqa, said the media has been blaming the group for attacks which they claimed no responsibility for, and has widely mistranslated a YouTube video posted by the group last month.

Qaqa also complained of reports that he had been captured, when, he said, a different man had been taken prisoner.

“We have repeatedly cautioned reporters and media houses to be professional and objective in their reports,” he told Premium Times.

There are no organisations or groups that can say they are immune from the group (Boko Haram). It is the most frightening thing about them, they are capable of doing anything •Jonathan

“This is a war between us and the government of Nigeria. Unfortunately, the media have not been objective and fair in their report of the ongoing war, they chose to take sides.”

Kari, the university lecturer and political analyst, said the attacks on the media will have a chilling effect on reporters in Nigeria, making writers afraid to criticise or comment on Boko Haram. But, he said, Boko Haram’s next target could be anywhere, at any time.

“There are no organisations or groups that can say they are immune from the group (Boko Haram),” he said. “It is the most frightening thing about them, they are capable of doing anything.”

Bombers also targeted Christian churches over the weekend. In the northern city of Kano, at least 16 people were killed Sunday after bombs went off at a Christian ser-

‘

vice on a university campus. Gunmen fired on those who tried to flee and escaped on motorcycles, reported police.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, or for an attack later that day on a police commissioner, but it appears to be part of an established Boko Haram trend.

Last Christmas, dozens were killed in church bombings near the capital, and the year before, the group claimed responsibility for church bombings in Jos that left more than 86 people dead.

The problem of the violence may be spill over Nigeria’s borders.

Chadian President Idriss Deby, according to the BBC, said Boko Haram’s activities threaten to destabilise the West African region, and called for the “creation of a joint deterrence force” to “eradicate” the group.

•Culled from Global Post

Okorocha urges police to protect Nigerians I

MO State Governor Rochas Okorocha yesterday urged the police to create a conducive environment for the people to operate without fear.

Okorocha spoke when he received the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Abubakar at the Government House, Owerri.

He commended thePolice for bracing up to the challenge of securing the lives and property of the people of the nation.

Okorocha decried the poor living conditions of the officers and men of the force and advised that the authorities should liaise with the state governments in the 36 states of the federation on ways of improving their infrastructures in different states.

He enjoined the police authority to assist the Imo State government in its mission of establishing a fourthtier government by re-invigorating the community policing services of the force.

The governor asked the IGP to grant the state government the approval to relocate the Imo State Police Command to a more spacious and befitting site.

Okorocha urged the police boss to re-introduce discipline and accountability in the rank and file of the service and also to adopt effective ways of appreciating efficient and gallant policemen and women.

Abubakar said he came to Imo to re-evaluate the security situation in Imo, especially on the challenges of armed robbery and kidnapping. He thanked the Imo State government for its numerous assistance to the force and pledged the reciprocation of such gesture by the police through

•Okorocha and Abubakar... yesterday.

• Ekiti Speaker backs NSA’s view on deadly sect •Anglican Primate: Southern leaders indifferent From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti, Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri and Okodili Ndidi, Onitsha

effective security services.

National Security Adviser (NSA) Gen. Owoye Azazi acted honourably to have laid the blame of the Boko Haram insurgency on the refusal of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to adhere to agreed zoning formular within the party, Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly Adewale Omirin

has said.

Omirin commended Gen. Azazi for “choosing to rise above common foible of extenuation at a critical times.”

The speaker, who spoke with reporters in his office in Ado-Ekiti, condemned the outrage over Gen. Azazi’s statement.

He said: “Nigeria is where it is today because the culture of saying the truth is being generally derided.

“Azazi is an insider in PDP today and he knew that non-adherence to the Peoples Democratic Party’s zoning formula has been responsible for the Boko Haram insurgency in the country.

“The NSA is an insider in the PDP and he knows its workings. So, this open statement cannot be treated with kid gloves.

“It will be difficult to divulge this Boko Haram malaise from the way

the PDP flouted the zoning formula.”

The speaker urged President Goodluck Jonathan to invite the sect to a round-table talk, just the same way the late President Umar Yar’adua reined in the Niger Delta militants with the amnesty programme.

Omirin berated the president for reducing the bloodletting to mere political juggling by saying it would soon become history.

He said: “How can the president say it will soon become history when every attempt at solution has failed.”

The Primate of the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh, has accused leaders and politicians from the South of being indifferent to the killings of people in the North.

The primate spoke in Onitsha, Anambra State, during the dedication of the Episcopal House of the Diocese on the Niger.

He urged that Southern leaders should engage their counterparts in the North in deliberations that will define their mutual coexistence as a people and put an end to the provocative and unwarranted killings of innocent Christians.

The cleric charged the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, to call the Boko Haram sect to order.

He said: “Although Alhaji Sultan had maintained that Boko Haram members do not obey his command, he can do more than merely condemning the attacks. He should disclose the identity of the sect members, they are known among them, even those opting to negotiate with the Federal Government on their behalf should be asked to unveil the identities of the killers before it becomes a full blown religious war.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

NEWS Gunmen kill 60 in attack on market

N32.8b pension fund: Court grants EFCC leave to seize 108 assets

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Continued from page 1

6:00pm with explosive materials, burnt down all the buildings, cars and structures in the cattle market and shot at random on everyone in the market.”

The Secretary of the Cattle Traders Union, Alhaji Maigari Lamido, put the death toll at 60 when Yobe State Governor Ibrahim Gaidam visited the market to sympathise with the traders.

But Police Commissioner Moses Onariti said 34 people were killed; 29 hospitalised.

He said no arrest was made relating to the attack.

The Secretary of Nigerian Red Cross in the state, Zabu Buba, said his men took about 30 people to the hospital.

There were indications that the death toll may have exceeded the official figure as some of the dead were already being identified and buried by their relatives. Such bodies were neither taken to the hospital nor were they recorded.

Lamido told the governor that 40 cows and 17 vehicles were burnt down by the assailants in the gun raid.

The governor also visited the Potiskum General Hospi-

•Governor Gaidam (right) commiserating with one of the victims during a visit to Potiskum General Hospital ... yesterday

tal where he directed that a special committee be set up to ascertain the extent of damage, adding that the government would take over the payment of hospital bills of the victims. He said families of the victims will be assisted based on the recommendation of the committee.

Potiskum, a usually boisterous town was thrown into mourning, following the attack.

A resident, Adamu Sambo, said all the entry and exit points in the town were blocked by security operatives and people sent home early before the 10.pm curfew dateline.

Crowds of sympathisers trooped to the hospital in search of their loved ones.

The Emir of Fika and Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Muhammadu

Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, was at the hospital to sympathise with the relations of the victims. The royal father was deeply moved when he saw the bodies in the mortuary. He said he was sad over the “unfortunate” incident.

The Emir of Potiskum, Alhaji Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya, also visited the market and condemned the attack.

N Abuja High Court yesterday granted leave to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to seize 108 assets belonging to the six accused persons standing trial over alleged diversion of N32.8 billion Police Pension Fund.

The order followed an application by the EFCC counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs, seeking leave to seize the assets allegedly belonging to the accused persons.

Acting under Section 28 of the EFCC Act 2004, the commission attached the list of the assets belonging to the accused persons.

The accused persons are a Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Atiku Abubakar Kigo; a director, Esai Dangabar, Ahmed Inuwa Wada, John Yakubu Yusufu, Mrs. Veronica Ulonma Onyegbula and Sani Habila Zira.

They are facing a 16-count charge of criminal breach of trust slammed against them by the EFCC. The alleged offence is punishable under Sections 97, 115 (ii), 119, 309 and 315 of the Penal Code Act Cap. 532 Laws of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria 2007.

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

Ruling on the motion, Justice Lawal Gummi granted the interim order for the seizure of the assets, alleged to be scattered all over Nigeria.

The case has been adjourned till May 28, for continuation of hearing.

The accused allegedly between January 2009 and June 2011 in Abuja diverted a sum of N14,518,567,724 being part of police pension cash from an account domiciled at First Bank Plc. Between January and December 2009 in Abuja, they also allegedly breached the public trust with N8,920,371,822 police pension fund kept at First Bank Plc. The charge sheet also indicated that between January 2010 and February 2011 also in Abuja, they diverted another sum of N4,739,894,896 police fund and another N858,301,006 between February and June 2011 diverted from the same source.

They were also accused of stealing N656,559,289 in January 2011 while in March 2009 another N462,963,012 was allegedly diverted from the same source while working at the police pension office among others.

No hasty implementation of subsidy probe report, says Fed govt

N

IGERIANS expecting a swift implementation of the House of Representatives fuel subsidy probe report should forget it.

The Federal Government said yesterday that the report will not be implemented, until anti-graft bodies have fully investigated corruption-related issues raised by the report.

The government said, once again, that it had not yet received the report.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mohammed Adoke explained the government’s position in a statement yesterday.

He also said the government considered the report of the Farouk Lawan Committee as mere fact-finding report.

He asked the Save Nigeria Group (SNG) to shelve the proposed nationwide protest to pressurize the government to implement the report.

Adoke said: “The attention of the Office of the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice has been drawn to recent calls by some groups and well-meaning Nigerians for the prosecution of those allegedly indicted in the Report of the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Fuel Subsidy Regime.

“It is pertinent to reiterate the government’s position as aptly captured by Mr. President’s initial reaction to the Report of the Fuel Subsidy probe to the effect that any person found wanting will be prosecuted, irrespective of the person’s standing in the society.

“Nigerians must, however, appreciate that in discharg-

Tambuwal: we ‘ll implement report

T

HE House of Representatives is determined to ensure implementation of the report of its fuel subsidy committee, Speaker Aminu Tambuwal said yesterday.

Tambuwal said: “On the issue of the report, this House has debated the report and passed the report. Of course, the House, through oversight of its committees, will continue to follow up all the agencies of government which have been directed to take up these issues by the House.

“It is not that the matter is beyond our purview. Our committees and anticorruption agencies will do a follow up of this report, whether anybody likes it or not,” he said.

Tambuwal spoke while receiving the joint National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), led by Abdulwahed Omar and Peter Esele.

Speaking on the bill sponsored by the Senate to stop protests by organised labour, he assured the labour leaders that “parliament will not make any effort to stifle the freedom of the citizens as guaranteed by From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

ing this onerous responsibility, Government must be guided by the dictates of the rule of law and due process as required of any democratically elected and responsible government.

“In this regard, the need to ensure that thorough investigations are carried out by relevant law enforcement agencies cannot be overemphasised.

“This is more so, as the exercise carried out by the House of Representatives is mainly fact-finding.”

Adoke said although the government is yet to receive

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

the Constitution. We would rather do those things that will strengthen our freedom, unity and democracy.

“It is part of democratic principle to allow people to associate. As long as what you are doing is within the confines of the law, we see no problem with that. Therefore, be rest assured that if at all such a bill will come to the House, we will look at it and ensure that constitutionally, what ought to be done is not only done but done correctly.”

Tambuwal cautioned political office holders. He said: “I will like to admonish our brothers and sisters in power that power is transient. That situation in Malawi is a good lesson for everybody in power. Those of us who are privileged by God to be in positions of authority should be cautious in exercising whatever powers we have.”

Tambuwal urged religious leaders to mind their comments on the activities of Boko Haram.

“Religious leaders should be more cautious in their comments over Boko Haram. Boko Haram is not purely religious. They are out to destroy the na-

the House Ad Hoc Committee’s Report, it will not spare anyone found guilty by anti-corruption agencies.

“I also wish to point out that the Report of the AdHoc Committee and the Resolutions adopted by the House of Representatives is yet to be transmitted to the Executive arm of government.

“Nevertheless, when the report and accompanying resolutions are received, the relevant law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies will commence the tedious process of sieving through the report, with a view to as-

tion,” he said.

NLC President Omar said labour was in support of the House on the fuel subsidy probe.

“We want to assure you that organised labour will be behind you. We want the report to be taken to its logical conclusion; all those culprits must be brought to book.

“The path you are treading is the right path; whoever rises up to do the right thing must be allowed to continue,” said Omar.

The NLC boss described National Assembly members as true representatives of the people who must be allowed to carry out their work.

“If we must practise democracy, this arm of government must be allowed to do the right thing.”

Esele noted that sovereignty of the Nigerian people resides in the National Assembly.

He said the National Assembly should ensure that Nigerians were not denied their freedom in the name of anti-people law.

According to him, the congress would ensure that those indicted in the fuel subsidy report were prosecuted.

sembling all the essential ingredients required to sustain criminal charges that may be filed as a result of such investigations.

“I, therefore, call on Nigerians who are understandably concerned about the revelations arising from the Fuel Subsidy Probe to be patient and exercise restraint while these difficult, but essential processes are carried out by appropriate agencies.

“As the Attorney General of the Federation, I swore to uphold the Constitution and I am, therefore, not oblivious of the constitutional responsibility placed on my shoulders to ensure that those who

contravene our laws are held accountable through the legal process.

“However, experience has shown that whenever our law enforcement agencies are stampeded to arraign suspects, the end result is usually the discharge of such suspects by the courts, ostensibly, for want of evidence. Nigerians must, therefore, allow our law enforcement agencies to conduct painstaking investigations that will ultimately satisfy the standard of proof required in criminal cases.”

The AGF, who admitted that the findings of the committee are weighty, said the

government is committed to transparency in the oil sector.

He said: “The foregoing notwithstanding, we must accept that the allegations contained in the Subsidy Probe Report deserve serious action on the part of all those with oversight responsibility over the agencies and persons concerned.

“Aware of this responsibility, Mr. President had as far back as 2010 ordered a forensic audit of the accounts of the NNPC with a view to sanitizing the oil sector.

“Since then, other processes have been put in place to enhance accountability and transparency levels in the oil sector even before the commencement of fuel subsidy probe.”

Adoke asked the Save Nigeria Group (SNG) to shelve its planned protest to avoid compounding the nation’s problem.

He added: “I, therefore, humbly urge Nigerians to have faith in the processes being undertaken and to patiently wait for the outcome of the investigations and subsequent prosecutions that may flow from the fuel subsidy probe conducted by the House of Representatives and the on-going probe by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In this respect, I wish to observe that the ultimatum being given by some groups and the threat to embark on demonstrations and strike actions will only compound the problem and divert attention as well as the energy that would otherwise have been channelled into productive use by law enforcement agencies.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

NEWS

Kano seeks husbands for 1,000 widows, divorcees Kano State, where the number of divorcees is cause for concern, the government is acting as matchmaker to help ex-wives and widows find Mr. Right.

H

E should be tall. Kind, of course. And generous, especially when it comes to buying all those little trinkets that a woman desires.

“A little handsome,” but not too much, says Altine Abdullahi. “It’s a danger.”

In northern Nigeria, it is a truth almost universally acknowledged that a woman of a certain age, and in a certain situation in life, must be in want of a husband.

But if the woman in that certain situation is a divorcee or a widow, finding a husband isn’t easy, even without the shopping list of desirable qualities ticked off by Abdullahi (a divorcee).

That’s why 1,000 women have thrown their fates into the hands of the Kano state government, which will act as their matchmaker.

The religious authority in the Muslim-dominated state, the Hisbah Board, has embarked on a massive husband hunt for divorcees and widows. The first 100 women, including Abdullahi, are to be wed in coming weeks.

“I’m getting married,” she says.

“God willing!”

She has no idea who her husband will be. But, like the practical character in a Jane Austen novel, she’s no romantic.

“I know love is something, but ...” she pauses wistfully. “Love doesn’t really last.”

Abdullahi, 44, preens like a fine, glossy bird, creaming her plump lips, powdering her face, fluttering her eyelashes girlishly. Her smiling face, with perfect white teeth, peers out from dozens of photographs stacked on her desk and decking the wall of her office, where she heads the organization Voice of Widows, Divorcees and Orphans Assn. of Nigeria. Her skin is clear, her eyes bright, her silver bangles jangle happily, yet she complains that she looks “tired.”

“Beautiful? You should have seen me when I was young. Then I was beautiful.”

The state-as-matchmaker plan came after Abdullahi made an emotional plea on Kano radio for husbands for desperate widows and divorcees.

In Nigeria, women of marriageable age who remain single are seen as suspect, their respectability questioned. Throughout many parts of the Muslim world, divorced and widowed women are forced to go home to their fathers or brothers and are viewed as a burden and failure. Or they live on the edges of society, shunned and forced into begging or prostitution to support their children.

Sometimes the brother of a dead man will marry the widow and support her and her children. But many divorced women find it difficult to remarry.

In Kano, the state capital, there’s a sense of crisis about the number of divorcees, although statistics aren’t available to back up widespread perceptions of an increase in failed marriages. The problem sharpened here after Kano state and 11 other predominantly Muslim states adopted sharia, or Islamic law, between 1999 and 2001, allowing men to divorce unilaterally simply by thrice stating “I divorce you,” an act that cannot be undone with a simple change of mind.

“With growing cases of divorce

Kwankwaso approves N15m for mass wedding From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

K

ANO State government yesterday approved the implementation of the first phase of a pilot scheme involving 100 of the 1,000 widows and divorcees seeking husbands.

The scheme tagged “Zawarawa marriage scheme”.

The government has earmarked N15 million to the Hisbah Board to facilitate the project.

Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Yusuf Bello Dambatta, briefed reporters at the end of the weekly State Executive Council (SEC) meeting, presided over by Governor Rabi’u Kwankwaso at the Government House.

He stated that the council also agreed to release N217.46 million for the relocation and construction of the new Kano state Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency complex at Kwanar Kwankwaso, Madobi local government are while N33.5 million was approved for the first phase of civil works for converting Bee-Zee-Bee Hotel into the state Primary Healthcare Development Board headquarters.

Yusuf said N97.6 million was approved for the provision of street lights at Kofar Ruwa– Kofar Mazugal–Triumph and Waje Friday mosque roundabout. N16.8 million was set aside for settlement of compensation to owners of structures to be affected by the construction of the second stateowned university, North West •Kwankwaso University.

The commissioner added that the council agreed to release N29.6 million for the provision of uniform and kits, training, allowances and logistics for 250 Traffic Attendants employed by the government, pointing out that N20 million was approved for the procurement of working tools and cleaning/ rehabilitation of drainages in Kano city.

He added that SEC approved a proposal for a private sector powered Bus Mass Transit intervention on selected roads in the state capital as well as another offer for the establishment of a world-class Hospitality and Tourism Institute in the state capital. among couples, the state has reached an unenviable record in the country. In any social gathering and various fora, the most common discussion in the metropolis is the growing rate at which divorce is taking place,” said a February article in the Nigerian newspaper Leadership.

An everyday quarrel can easily escalate into divorce, says Abdullahi, whose divorce happened as quickly as a car crash, in a moment of heat, instantly regretted by both sides.

The row came after her husband took a third wife who was demanding more nights with him. When he conveyed the demand to Abdullahi (as second wife), she told him it was women’s business. He should send the third wife to her.

He refused. She insisted. He said, “Be careful.”

She insisted. He told her to leave.

A few more sharp words and before anyone could stop it, the couple were divorced.

“I started crying. Even he started crying too. We cried together. He said, ‘Just go back to your room and forget about the divorce.’” But she couldn’t. Under sharia law, she says, she cannot go back to him unless

she remarries and her husband either dies or her new marriage ends in divorce.

She left their four children with him, as is often the case. (“He treats them very well. So why should I worry myself about them?”) She has seen them once since, in 2005.

She left, certain he’d miss her and her cooking, especially his favorite dish, spaghetti bolognese, made from a recipe she’d found in a magazine.

That was 12 years ago.

“I know he misses me.” Still, she says, 40 days can now pass without him entering her mind.

After the divorce, Abdullahi decided to put herself through law school, but being smart didn’t compensate for her lack of a secular education.

“I didn’t understand a word the lecturer said.”

In 2008, the state government’s religious Social Reorientation Program, A Daidaita Sahu, meaning “straighten your lines” in the local Hausa language, urged men to be tolerant of trivial marital problems. One reason for the state’s high divorce rate, the government found, was “the misapplication of power by men to di-

• Divorcee Altine Abdullahi is among 1,000 women who have turned to the PHOTO: LOS ANGELES TIMES Kano state government to find them a spouse.

vorce women.”

Many Kano men, who see obedience as an important wifely trait, don’t want to marry divorcees, Abdullahi contends.

“Nobody comes to us. They say we are not disciplined,” Abdullahi says. “We challenge that. They’re our men and if they don’t marry us, who will?”

The Hisbah Board is subjecting all marriage applicants, male and female, to medical and HIV tests, and requires each to fill out a form, providing details of their social “status,” education, likes and dislikes and an outline of what he or she expects in a spouse.

Husbands will pay a modest bride price, but no less than one gram of gold (which Abdullahi wants to go to the bride but usually goes to her family). The state will also pay all wedding expenses.

About 2,000 men have applied to be screened as potential husbands.

For men, it looks like an affordable way to get hitched, with the bride price low, the trouble of haggling with the bride’s parents averted and the wedding paid for.

Even members of the Hisbah Board have recently taken extra wives “to set a good example,” board official Nabahani Usman said. (The board sees it as an act of charity and kindness to take in an extra wife.)

For many of the divorcees and widows, the attraction is the protection offered by the board, which will make sure any future divorce isn’t trivial.

Some critics of the marriage plan, such as writer Ayisha Osori, argue that its great flaw is in giving false hope of success in marriage to women when society’s views of wives remain problematic.

“Absolutely nothing has changed. The men have not changed, the state has not changed, and the realities of the women — right where society wants them to be — have also not changed,” Osori wrote in Leadership. “And so the

cycle continues, with women in and out of the homes and beds of men who can discard them as quickly as it takes to say talaq,” she added, referring to the Islamic term for divorce.

Abdullahi met recently with Aminu Daurawa, head of the Hisbah Board, who promised to personally select the best available man for her.

He’d better find someone who appreciates a bold, charismatic woman.

Abdullahi’s outspoken ways have been controversial. In 2009 she planned a “million divorcee march” in the streets of Kano to protest the dire situation of many divorcees and widows. Tongues wagged over such a scandalous idea. Men — and women — condemned it.

She was summoned by the Hisbah Board, forced to cancel the protest and had to promise never to talk about it again. She was chastened but didn’t give up fighting.

“I’m a strong woman. I got my strength from my father.”

These days, Abdullahi looks anything but downtrodden. She adores fashion (which can be quite an expensive habit, even in Kano) and goes a little starry-eyed when listing the hoped-for qualities of her soon-to-be-found husband. She may not be romantic but can’t help dreaming big.

“I want a husband who will get me anything I want in my life. It’s not important to be rich. But I don’t want poor.”

And if he’s cruel, miserly, badtempered, violent or simply doesn’t suit, she will reject him.

“If he can take good care of me, fine, I’ll stick with him. But if not, I’ll find my own way.”

But can she? The Hisbah Board’s determination to save all but the most dire marriages may cut both ways. If she (or any of the women) doesn’t like the board’s version of Mr. Right, she may be stuck.

Source: Los Angeles Times

6

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

NEWS LP, PDP members defect to ACN in Ondo community

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HE ruling Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State have lost more of their chieftains and members to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Akoko North East area of the state.

The defectors were led by a former council Chairman of the PDP, Mr Olemija Friday, and those of the LP by its former Chairman in Akoko North East Local Government Area. Friday is a member of the state’s Electricity Board.

The over 1,000 defectors were received into the ACN through the Omoluwabi Platform of former Defence Minister, Dr Olu Agunloye.

Kutelu, who was pioneer Chairman of the LP in the local government, noted that the structure of the LP in Akoko North East has collapsed.

He said all his former executive members of the LP, when he was the Caretaker Chairman of the council, joined the ACN because of the alleged deception of the LP’s government in Ondo State.

According to him, Governor Olusegun Mimiko has tactically abandoned and denied the residents of the area their rights, after assisting him to the position.

He said: “It is very unfortunate that Mimiko, whom I worked with and those who worked with him at the initial stage, dumped all of us and embraced new people that were never there for him during the struggle.

“I discovered also that the ACN has become the party of the people in the Southwest. I join the ACN so that I can assist the party to win the next governorship election. I have left the LP together with members of my executive, ward chairmen, women leaders, among others.”

Ekiti FRSC enforces crash helmet use From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

THE Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) in Ekiti State yesterday began what it called “full scale enforcement of use of crash helmets by motorcycle riders, especially in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

Tagged: Operation use Helmet in Ekiti State, the corps threatened to arrest any motorcyclist - commercial or non-commercial - who does not wear the helmet.

The state Sector Commander, Kumvent Rindom, spoke in Ado-Ekiti in a telephone interaction with reporters.

He said: “Erring motorcyclists will not only be arrested, but their motorbikes will be impounded by while individuals will be fined heavily.”

He noted that some of the accidents leading to the death among motorcycle riders could have been averted, if they used crash helmets.

State rebuilds burnt college THE Ekiti State Government has rebuilt the boys’ hostel of the Government Science College in Ayede.

The school was razed on March 23 when the students were away for their evening lectures in preparation for the second term examinations.

The fire destroyed the building, the students’ property as well as their House Master’s.

Governor Kayode Fayemi had directed that a new hostel be built within two weeks, to enable the students resume their normal lives.

Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology Dr. Eniola Ajayi said the government mobilised a contractor to the school to ensure that a new building was built before the students’ resumption.

The commissioner said the Fayemi administration has provided two new sets of school uniforms, textbooks on core subjects, stationery, 125 double bunks with 250 mattresses and pillows.

•Dr Agunloye (middle) with some of the defectors in Akoko, Ondo State...yesterday

Why Osun sent officials to Cuba, by ACN

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SUN State Government sent its officials to Cuba to learn how the country made tourism a mainstay of its economy and to replicate same in the state, the state chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) said yesterday.

The party explained that the visit was not to learn secessionist strategies, as some opposition elements and a purported security report have alleged.

In a statement by ACN Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy, Mr Kunle Oyatomi, the party noted that about 50 delegates successfully flew out of country in two

By Joseph Jibueze

batches.

It said they were sent “to study the organisation of cultural tourism, which the Cubans have perfected and transformed into its economic mainstay”.

They will study the organisation of the “massive events, such as the Cuban May Day, which is undisputedly the best in the world”.

ACN said the delegation would explore the Yoruba heritage linkages on display in Cuba and observe related monuments for mutually beneficial socio-economic purposes.

“Part of the reasons for the

visit is also to enable the delegates study small and medium scale maximisation of land and input resources for agric and food production.

“This is as the practice in Cuba is one of the world’s best which, in spite of the over 40 years crippling USA economic sanctions, the country has been able to feed itself,” the statement said.

The party said members of the delegation are those a “spurious security report” claimed Governor Rauf Aregbesola had sent to Cuba “to secede from Nigeria”.

It said an alleged claim by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that they were stopped

at the airport was not true, adding that a bid to frustrate the journey has failed.

The ACN wondered why Aregbesola’s “noble aims” would be “wickedly twisted into a secession plot”.

“Intelligent Nigerians are not fooled by this atrocious ploy,” the party said.

On the delegation are monarchs, Commissioners for Information and Strategy, Culture and Tourism and Women Affairs, traditional religion practitioners, farmers, women’s leaders, a market leader, a special adviser to the governor, a medical doctor and members of the collaborating political parties, the statement added.

Corruption has destroyed Nigeria's values, says Anyaoku

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FORMER SecretaryGeneral of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, yesterday said corruption has swallowed up the nation's collective values.

A former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Prof.

Chukwuma Soludo said the creation of additional states, the oil boom and sharing of funds from the Federation Account contribute to Nigeria's current near collapse.

The two eminent Nigerians spoke at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, at this year's annual conference of the Faculty of Arts with the theme: The Humanities and Good Governance.

Anyaoku was the chairman of the occasion and Soludo,

•Why nation is collapsing, by Soludo From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

who was the guest speaker, spoke on: Nigeria: Towards the Creation of Incentives and Structures for Good Governance.

Dignitaries at the event included Prof Stella Okunna, who represented Anambra State Governor Peter Obi; and the National Chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, among others.

Anyaoku said: "At the moment, the entire nation is treated to the mind-boggling and sickening details that are coming out from the fuel subsidy probe and the police pen-

sion scam.

"Misappropriation of public funds used to be described in millions; now it is reported in billions and even trillions.

"Corruption has so seriously eaten deep into the fabric of our society that it has virtually swallowed up our collective values. There is hardly any sector of our national life that has been spared by this affliction, including even the family that was, until recently, the last line of defence and hope.

"We read in newspapers that some parents acquiesce in, and often support examination malpractices by their children or wards. This is not to talk about many of our communities that approbate and festoon

very rich individuals, including public servants, with dubious sources of enrichment.

"In addition to reinvigorating the work of the anti-corruption agencies, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and ensuring that those involved in corruption are seen to be punished, the attack on corruption in Nigeria must begin in the education sector.

"We must return to the basics by remodeling our schools' curricula and encouraging our teachers to teach Civics and the virtues of service to the community and country in our primary and secondary schools.

Don dumps LP for ACN to join Ondo governorship race

A

LECTURER at the University of Ibadan (UI), Dr. Babajide Ololajulo, yesterday resigned his membership of the ruling Labour Party (LP) in Ondo State and joined the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

He signified his intention to join the governorship race to send the LP’s administration packing.

Addressing supporters at the Zion Gate Hotel, Akure, the state capital, Ololajulo, who is from Ode-Mahin in Ilaje Local Government Area, noted that about four years ago, many residents joined a political struggle they thought would dismantle the status quo that had for long stunted the development in the state.

He said: “In the past, we confronted the establishment and illegal institutions that held the state hostage as well as challenging anti-corruption democratic structures

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

preying on our patrimony and common wealth.

“We envisaged a new development built on financial prudence, transparency and popular participation; a new order, which would enhance productivity and create opportunities for the youths to exude their potential to the fullest.”

Ololajulo said as an Ilaje man, he has, since his early years, developed interest in governance.

According to him, he has consistently maintained a strong position against governments perceived to be irresponsive.

“My position, as a card-carrying member of the LP and an active participant in the enthronement of LP’s government in the state, thus required of me an extra interest in the activities of governance.

“Unfortunately, the rule of one man, which we thought had been finally discarded, again reared its ugly head from the very onset of the current administration,” he said.

The university don said the glaring failure of the LP to enable the residents realise the potential of the state and the desire for genuine party politics informed his reconsideration of the ruling party’s membership.

Ololajulo said: “As a development anthropologist, I know that there are socio-cultural baggage that limit access and optimism utilisation of mega-school facility whose cost could provide modest school structures at the doorsteps of every pupil in the state.

Addressing reporters after his declaration, Ololajulo said the state is at the verge of experiencing a rebirth, adding that the change would launch it into economic growth and development.

N9.7b loan: Police shield Saraki from reporters

By Jude Isiguzo

P

OLICEMEN at the office of the Special Fraud Unit (SFU) on Miliverton Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, yesterday shielded former Kwara State governor, Senator Bukola Saraki, from journalists.

Saraki, who is being investigated over a N9.7billion loan, which he reportedly obtained from the defunct Intercontinental Bank, was quizzed for over two hours.

When the detectives were through with him, the Personal Assistant (PA) to the Commissioner of Police in charge of the unit locked the door of the Police Public Relations Officer (PPPRO) where reporters were waiting.

A reporter was said to have been injured during the scramble to prevent the PA from locking the office. Saraki left when the reporters were still struggling to leave the police chief’s office to catch up with the senator.

Saraki arrived at the SFU office at 11am and left at 1.20pm.

He was in a convoy of three black vehicles.

The senator rode in a black Mercedes Benz Jeep, GL 450 4matic, with registration number (Abuja) CH165RBC. Saraki, who represents Kwara Central, is having a running battle with the police over their insistence that he should appear before them over his alleged involvement in the loan.

The former governor was to appear before the SFU after the arrest of the former managing director of Intercontinental Bank, Mr Lai Alabi, by officials of the unit.

Lawyer sues INEC, Ondo police chief From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

A

N Akure Based Lawyer Mr. Morakinyo Ogele yesterday filed a legal suit at the Ondo State High Court against the National Independent Electoral Commission [INEC] and the State Commissioner of Police of over the ban on political rally in the state.

In the suit No AK/43M/2012 the plaintiff is praying to the law court to rule against the two respondents’ declaration on rallies, stressing that they have violated the 1999 Nigeria constitution

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

7

NEWS

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Osun to mark one year anniversary of OYES

HE Osun State Government will tomorrow mark the one year anniversary of the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES).

In a statement yesterday, the Commandant of the scheme, Col. Enibukun Oyewole (Rtd.), said the celebration will hold at the state National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) orientation camp in

Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Ede. He said OYES, an initiative of Governor Rauf Aregbesola, has impacted positively on the society.

The scheme has provided jobs for 20,000 youths.

He said Aregbesola has fulfilled his electioneering promise to create 20,000 jobs within his first 100 days.

SSANU protests ‘poor treatment’

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•Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (Southwest Zone) protesting the non-implementation of the Federal Government’s Agreement on 65 years retirement age in the university system in Ibadan...yesterday.

Osun to sue monarch for ‘disrupting peace’

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HE OSUN State Government has concluded arrangement to sue the Alowa of Ilowa in Obokun Local Government Area of the state, Oba Adebukola Alli, for allegedly sponsoring some people, including students, to protest against the government.

The Alowa is standing trial before a state High Court for alleged sexual assault of

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

an ex-Corps member, who served in his domain between 2010 and 2011, sexually.

The monarch allegedly mobilised pupils to protest his trial during last Wednesday’s hearing of his case.

Oba Alli allegedly linked the state government to his trial.

It was learnt that the hearing was disrupted by the protesters.

Commissioner for Special Duties Bashir Ajibola said the government would sue Oba Alli.

He said the action of the traditional ruler was illegal.

Ajibola said the monarch’s alleged action tampered with the peace of the state.

He said the pupils allegedly mobilised for the protest were too young to be involved in such a thing.

Ajibola said the government has no interest in the case.

He said the government would prevent a reccurrence of such a protest in the court premises.

The case will come up a on May 21.

Agric Varsity VC Balogun alleges threat to life

T

HE out- going Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Ogun State, Prof. Olufemi Olaiya Balogun, yesterday alleged threats to his life.

Balogun said he has received over 200 death threats through text messages lately.

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

He said the source may not be unconnected with some decisions he took to develop FUNAAB .

The vc, whose tenure ends this month, said the only thing that would give him peace of the mind is the arrest of those behind the threats.

He said: “My life is under threat. I have received over 200 scary messages. But, I believe the people behind them would soon be nabbed. That would give me great joy.”

Balogun made this known at the university campus while speaking with reporters on the 20th Convocation ceremony coming up tomor-

row.

The vc, who now moves around with security aides, said the scary messages have all been forwarded to the State Security Service (SSS).

Balogun said he has stepped on many toes in taking some critical decisions but he has no regrets.

EMBERS of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Ekiti State University (EKSU) chapter, yesterday protested the alleged poor condition of service and the poor treatment of their officers.

They said they have complained on many occasions, but the management failed to listen to them.

About 70 members of the association marched round the campus, bearing placards with various inscriptions, such as “Mr. President, pls sign 65 years retirement age into law and abrogate 35 years”, “Unions are at peace in EKSU, Prof. Aina, don’t divide us!”, SSANU demands better career structure for typists”, “SSANU says no to stagnation” and “SSANU EKSU says no peace without equity, justice and fair play”, among others.

SSANU Chairman Kolawole Falade said the protest became necessary because various attempts to get the management’s attention have failed.

He said members of the association have remained on a level for over 15 years.

Falade lamented the delay in the upgrading of their quali-

R

•Damages windscreens From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

‘I thought it would break my glass. The first time I witnessed it was in 1977 in Ijebu - Ode. I was in the secondary school then’ Frightened motorists, who did not know what was

hitting their vehicles hurriedly parked by the roadsides.

In Ake, the wind shields of three vehicles were broken by the ice.

The experience was the same in Panseke, MKO Abiola Stadium and Kuto.

Mr. Denola Badejo of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library(OOPL), Abeokuta, said he was afraid when the rain caught him driving.

He said: “I thought it would break my glass. The

first time I witnessed it was in 1977 in Ijebu - Ode. I was in the secondary school then. During my first experience, tiny fishes fell from the sky with the ice. I caught one of the fishes and tried to rear it, but it died later.”

Mr. Bolaji Adisa of the Ogun State Office of the National Orientation Agency(NOA) said motorists were compelled to pull up by the roadsides because they were not sure of what was happening.

Ikuforiji: Ruling on motion to quash Federal High Court, sitcharges for July 5 ting in Lagos, yester-

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day fixed July 5 for ruling on the motion filed by Lagos State House of Assembly Adeyemi Ikuforiji.

Ikuforiji is seeking to quash the corruption charges levelled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Ikuforiji and his personal assistant, Oyebode Atoyebi, are standing trial before Justice Okechukwu Okeke on a 20count charge of alleged abuse of office and money laundering by the EFCC. The anti-graft agency said the accused, between April,

2010 and July, 2011, in Lagos accepted cash payments of N518 million from the Assembly without going through a financial institution.

At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, counsel to the accused , Mr Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), argued that a careful look at the charges would show that the EFCC never accused the Speaker of embezzlement or stealing money.

He said Section 318 of the 1999 Constitution empowers the Speaker, as part of the government, to transact business on its behalf.

“My client had only exercised governmental power by transacting business on behalf of government,’’ the counsel said.

Oyetibo argued that the EFCC failed to establish a prima facie case against his clients, adding that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the suit.

Prosecuting counsel Godwin Obla, however, urged the court to dismiss the accused persons’ application, since they did not raise any objection to the charge when they were arraigned and their pleas were taken.

fications; the appointment of academic staff into administrative and technical positions, which are meant for SSANU members; infrastructural decay; poor working environment and partiality in staff training.

The protesters eventually gathered at the Administration Building, where Falade addressed them in the presence of the Deputy ViceChancellor (Academics), Prof.

Esther Aderibigbe.

Falade said: “We say no to stagnation; some workers have been on the same level for 22 years. We say no to unequal treatment of workers, the decay of the Education Trust Fund (ETF) Library and other facilities in the institution.

“The issue of the 65 years retirement age for teaching staff and 70 years for non-teaching staff has not been addressed.”

Prof. Aderibigbe said she would convey their grievance to the management.

She urged the protesters not to personalise issues, adding that their demands are institutional and not personal.

Ikare bank robbery: Mimiko to tighten security

Ogun residents panick over ice-block rain

ESIDENTS of Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, were scared yesterday, when tiny ice blocks began to fall on them during a heavy rainfall.

Roads, rooftops and vehicles were covered with Ice blocks, which melted a few minutes later.

The rain began around 5:42pm. The weather was slightly windy.

It started suddenly and lasted about 27 minutes.

Many, who were in the open, reported being hit by a rain of ice blocks.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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NDO State Governor Olusegun Mimiko yesterday restated his commitment to the security of life and property.

Mimiko spoke during a condolence visit to the Olukare of Ikare-Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh, and the people of the town, over Monday’s attack on three banks. Five people were killed.

He was accompanied by the Brigade Commander in the state, Brigadier-General Dan Alli, and Commissioner of Police Edgar Nanakumo.

The governor, who was conducted round the premises of the banks by their managers, expressed shock at the damage.

He said the capacity of security agencies would be increased to enable them face such challenges Mimiko said the major road in the town would be widened and lighted up.

He said: “We feel very unhappy to be here, especially in a situation where the whole town was thrown into a state of helplessness. I assure you that we are going to increase the capacity of security agents to improve security in this town.

“I appeal to our people to be more security conscious. We commiserate with the families of those that were killed. The government will continue to do its best to make sure that our people live in peace.”

Oba Momoh thanked the governor for his concern.

OAUTHC builds surgical ward Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

•Ikuforiji

“The accused persons ought to have raised their objection to the charges at the point when their pleas were taken in accordance with Section 167 of the Criminal Procedure Act,’’ he said.

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HE management of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife in Osun State, has built a multi-million paediatriac surgical ward.

Speaking with reporters in Ile-Ife, the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Olusanya Adejuyigbe, said the surgical ward was built to enhance health care services.

Adejuyigbe praised the contractor for the good quality of work done.

The Chairman of the construction company, Engr. A.K. Ahmadu, said the project was delivered according to specification and praised the hospital’s management looking out for the interest of patients.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

8

CITYBEATS Court remands doctor Fashola donates boats to Navy L

08033054340, 08034699757 E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

By Precious Igbonwelundu

A LAGOS Magistrate's Court, Ebute-Meta, yesterday ordered the remand of a 35-year-old fake doctor over alleged murder of Blessing Friday.

The accused, Femi Bejide, is standing trial on a one-count charge of murder.

The offence contravened Section 231 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

Prosecuting Assistant Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Essien alleged that the accused who claimed to be a doctor, on February 12, killed Friday by prescribing fake drugs for her.

He alleged that the deceased complained of malaria, to the accused, who gave her some drugs and she died after using the drugs.

Essien told the court that the defendant is the owner of Shasha Medical Centre and a resident of 23, Adegboyega St. Shasha Idimu, Lagos. His plea was not taken as the court had no jurisdiction to hear the case.

Magistrate M.O. Olajuwon remanded him in Ikoyi Prisons, pending the a legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). The matter was adjourned to May 30.

Ikotun traders to pay N2.5m fine

By Adejo David

THE Irepodun market in IkotunIgando local council Development Area, has been opened after agreement between the council and the traders.

The council chairman, Mrs Morenike Adeniyi-illiams, said the traders accepted to keep the market clean and the road to make way for vehicular traffic on the route.

Mrs Adeniyi-Williams warned commercial drivers to stop picking or dropping off passengers at undesignated points.

She said the traders would pay N2.5 million fine before the market is reopened. This, she said, is the cost of security and cleaning of the market during the five-day closure.

One of the traders said the closure was unwarranted because it was connected with the allegations of dirtiness levelled against them.

"What we learnt was that some traders had a scuffle with council officials at the entrance of the market last week and the council officials swooped on the market and shut it down.

What happened could have been sorted out by the police, but the council seized that opportunity to close down the market," he said.

Sources said the five-day closure might have led to a loss of N7million to the traders especially those in the perishable goods section.

Another trader, who identified himself simply as Okechukwu described the council's action as exploitative and wicked.”

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola has presented two patrol surveillance vessels to the Nigeria Navy to improve security on the waterways; checkmate sea piracy and related crimes.

Presenting the vessel syesterday at the Nigeria Police Marine Unit, Ikoyi, Fashola said the security forces are capable of performing to the people’s expectation if well equipped.

He said what needed to be done is to listen to them when they make suggestions on security matters. He stressed the need to take another look at security structure, noting that the decentralisation of the Police remains the best option.

It will only be reasonable for states that fund security agencies to also lay claim to them,” he said.

Fashola said: "The idea of a decentralized police force is an idea whose time has come", calling on those urging the state to make more of the boats available to add their voice to the clamour for more funds for states. "If we have more funds, you will definitely have more."

Responding, Flag Office Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Aminu Ikioda praised the governor for the gesture, stressing that provision of the vessels could not have come at a better time.

Ikioda, represented by the Commander, NNS Beecroft, Commodore Martins Njoku, said the boats would assist security agencies to make their presence felt along the coastline, adding that they will be used basically to prevent dumping of waste along the waterways.

Ikioda called on the governor to provide more of the vessels so as to effectively tackle security challenges on the water ways.

In goodwill message, Lagos State Commissioner of Police Umaru Manko said the task of po-

•From left: Lagos State Police Commissioner Umar Manko, Governor Fashola (cutting the tape), and Commander NNS Bee Croft, Commodore Martin Njoku at the event... yesterday

•Naval personnel testing one of the boats donated by Governor Fashola... yesterday

By Miriam Ndikanwu

licing the state has been made easier by the provision of requisite infrastructure by the government.

"Everything needed by the police to perform effectively is here, the police indeed have no reason to fail in Lagos", he said.

Earlier, Executive Secretary, La-

gos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) Mr. Fola Arthur-Worrey thanked Fashola for his interest in security, stressing that the gunboats provided have both offshore and onshore capabilities.

The vessels, known as Croq 450 VGT, Arthur-Worrey said were technically equipped to see clearly under darkness including any

PHOTO OMOSEHIN MOSES

hiding object or human.

Besides, it is fitted with gun mounts and multi - ammunition capability for defensive maneuvers.

He also added that the vessels are fitted with air conditioners, can accommodate 16 passengers with a GPS Thermal Imaging to view the map of the state waterways.

Tanker, trailer drivers get Sunday deadline to quit Apapa

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ANKER and trailer drivers have up till Sunday to quit the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, it was learnt yesterday.

The ultimatum followed Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola’s vist to the area last Sunday sequel to public complaints that the drivers have become a nuisance on the road.

He said the government would apply the full weight of the law to restore sanity on the road.

Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa his counterpart, Ademorin Kuye and the Chairman, Taskforce, Bayo Sulaiman, at an emergency meeting with major stakeholders, such as the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NU-

By Miriam Ndikanwu

PENG), Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) and Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), among others, warned that failure to remove the trucks by 12 midnight on Sunday, would lead to the seizure of their vehicles.

According to Opeifa, the government could no longer fold its arms and allow lawlessness by the drivers. He said by Monday, tanker and trailer drivers who failed to comply would have their vehicles towed away.

He said: "Government wants you to do business, but it does not want you to inconvenience others.

Enough is enough. We want to

make sure the Apapa expressway, all through to Ijora bridge is free of traffic bottlenecks.

"We want to see that the road that leads to Tin-Can is also free and the police station at Ijora to the Tin Can Port is free of traffic.

We want to see tankers on Creek Road evacuated so that the road can be free."

Opeifa added that: "All shanties under Liverpool Bridge should be cleared. We seek your cooperation to ensure that your people remove their vehicles from the road.

Those people whose towing vehicles have broken down on the road should also remove them.

"We want to fix Wharf Road, Creek Road and the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway. We also want access

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

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

Rapid Response Squad (RRS) 080-23111742; 080-29728371 Lagos Zonal Command Phone Phone Nos: 070-55350249; 080-23909364; 080-77551000 No:080-33706639; 01-7742771 070-35068242 01-7904983 Sector Commander Phone No: 080-79279349; 080-63299264 080-34346168; 01-2881304

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.

to Beach Land Estate. Vehicles obstructing residents’ movement to the estate should be removed."

Opeifa said the taskforce officials and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Brigade, and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and other government agencies had been mobilised for the onslaught on tanker drivers if they failed to evacuate their vehicles from the road by Sunday midnight.

Sulaiman said government is determined to ensure that all routes to Apapa are free. He said tanker drivers should not cultivate the habit of parking on the road.

Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Commissioner, Kuye, appealed to people trading under the bridge at Liverpool, Apapa, to vacate the area as the place was known to habour criminals.

He said tanker drivers and trailers should not endanger the lives of people in the area as Apapa served as one of the hub of business activities of the nation.

Representatives of the various unions in the area agreed to comply with the ultimatum issued by the government.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

9

CITYBEATS

08033054340, 08034699757 E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

‘I asked for one, ‘I got three’

Big Brother unveils housemates

•Triplets’ father cries for help

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HEY are bundles of joy which many are looking up to God for.

But because he is poor their father is not happy at having them. Tears dropped from his eyes as he looked at the triplets inside their incubators.

“Why me? he moaned, I asked for one but got three.”

A thing of joy has turned to sadness for me,” Ayodele Akinola said, as he begged Nigerians to come to his aid in taking care of the babies.

With their birth, Akinola now has a family of seven to take care of. The triplets, who were moved out of the incubators into the general ward at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), would soon join their senior siblings when they are discharged.

The babies, two boys and a girl, have been discharged from the Neonatology Unit of the hospital to join their mother in the ward.

Akinola, 42, who hails from Owa Atun-Opin in Ekiti Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara State, is an Okada rider.

His wife of 10 years as a petty trader. He wasn't ex-

• Akinola with the triplets. Inset: wife, Folasade

By Wale Adepoju

pecting three babies, not when he already had three that he can fully take care of.

The loss of his taxi cab has not helped the situation.

"I was a taxi driver at the Iron Market, Orile-Iganmu, but I had problem and I couldn't continue with the business, so I started riding motorcycle. Now, to pay the babies’ medical bills and get

my wife discharged from the LUTH is a problem," he said.

Akinola is however, still grateful to God for the safe delivery of the babies on April 24.

Akinola, who resides at 4, Oladunjoye Street, Olota, Abule-Egba, Lagos, urged well-meaning Nigerians, corporate organisations; the Federal and state government, to come to his aid.

His wife, Folasade, 32,

who hails from Ikerin Opin, Ekiti LGA, Araromi Opin, also in Kwara State, said the family could hardly make ends meet even before the triplets’ birth.

She said the bundles of joy will be an added responsibility which the family can only discharge with the help of people, organisations and government.

Although, her condition is stable, Mrs Akinola said

her blurred vision was still a concern to her, but the nurses have assured her tha all will be well.

Mrs Akinola, who delivered the babies through Caesarian Section (CS), is still recuperating at Ward C3 of the hospital.

Her husband's bank details are Eco Bank, Account Name: Mr Ayodele Akinola, Account Number: 0037239100.

Woman, 64, alleges threat to her life by police

A

64 -YEAR-OLD woman, Mrs Victoria Akomolafe has appealed to Acting Inspector General of Police M.D. Abubakar, to save her and her son Oluwaseun, from the hands the Commander of Area G Police Command, Ogba, Lagos.

Mrs Akomolafe in a neck collar, relived her ordeal after she renovated renovated the house where she lives in Dideolu Estate, Ogba; following the death of the landlord.

She said she went to the station on March 26 to lodge a complaint about a neighbour who has been harassing her

By Nneka Nwaneri

when the police made her the ‘offender.’

"I only went there (station) on 26th March to report how I have been constantly threatened by one of my neighbours, Mr Kayode Oyinlola, who keeps calling me a thief and threaten to set up my son.

On getting to the station, I was called into the area commander's office, Mr Ishola Abdulahi, where I met relations of my neighbor seated.

I wasn't allowed to say my own side of the story when the commander ordered a junior officer to lock me up

for a criminal offence.

“They also seized my son and pinned him to the wall, dealing him with blows and punches. I couldn't bear the sight and as I tried to separate them, I was flung to a nearby chair where I fell and went unconscious for more than three hours.

"I was taken to the Ikeja General Hospital, when my lawyer and some members of my relations came to my rescue.

On regaining consciousness, my son told me of how his Blackberry phone (Bold 2) was seized because they said he was recording and videoing the conversation.

"My home was also ransacked by the police and most of my personal documents, including the agreement I had with the landlord before his demise were seized.

"Till now, I still feel pains on my neck and legs (showing the affected areas). I appeal for justice to be done as I didn't expect what I saw. It was inhuman of them I don't mind leaving the apartment but I should have a refund of the money spent on the renovation or complete my 16 years agreement."

Oluwaseun denied recording anything that was said or done.

Pastor charged with sodomy

By Jude Isiguzo

•Mrs Akomolafe

Striking doctors trying to play god, says govt

By Wale Adepoju

• Idris

HE Lagos State Government is ready to dialogue with its striking doctors but will not do so under threat, Commissioner for Health, Jide Idris said yesterday.

He accused the doctor’s of trying to play god.

Idris said the doctors under the umbrella of the Medical Guild, were playing on the people’s emotion with the way they are going

T

about their demands.

Reacting to a statement by the Joint Action Front (JAF) that it would mobilise people against the government, said on phone that the state has implemented the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) figure for figure.

He said it was a surprise that the doctors resorted to “cheap blackmail” to gain favour from the public.

According to him, the state is concerned about the health of its people and would do everything to safeguard it.

He described as empty the threats issued by JAF on behalf of the doctors.

Idris said: "All the complaints that the doctors made are nothing to worry about.

We would address all the issues raised. If JAF wants more information, it can come for it. If they want to demon-

strate or whatever they want to do it is their right to demonstrate. We would not stop anybody. The point is that people have to face reality.

We have to consider the lives of the people that are entrusted with us. And we as a government have done our bit, from what we believe so far.

"We have paid CONMESS. We are paying figure for figure, as they pay in other hospitals. We would not pay teaching allowance to people who do not teach because it is not right. If the Federal Government wants to pay that it is free to. Every other thing they wrote there we have addressed. And they are just playing to the gallery.

They are playing on people's emotion."

On the query and Personnel Management Board of the Health Service Commission's panel, Idris said: the rule could not be changed,

stressing that every civil servant is answerable to it.

"The civil service regulation is civil service regulation. We cannot enforce it on some group of workers and do something different for the other civil servants. They were warned and their attention was drawn to the fact that the strike was illegal for many reasons. They were told," Idris said.

He said the government would not succumb to the scheming of the doctors.

Idris said: "The bottom-line is that when the doctors applied to the civil service they did so under specific rules and regulations that guide the conduct of all civil servants. They will not be treated any differently and they will not hold anybody to ransom. They are only playing on the emotions of the people. And that is very unfair because they are more or less

FORTY-EIGHT hours to the take-off of this year's edition of the Big Brother Africa (BBA) reality TV show.

Yesterday it was revealed that seven celebrity housemates would be part of the seventh season of Africa's biggest reality TV show tagged: Stargame.

Dangling a $300, 000 prize and a new format that sees contestants doubling up to play, the 91day super-series is shaping up to be an exciting entertainment.

Celebrities selected to partake in the Stargame include Ghana's stand up comedian, DKB, Kenya's rap icon, Prezzo, awardwinning songstress Lady May from Namibia; famed socialite, model and businesswoman Barbz from South Africa; Zambia's R&B diva, Mampi and soulful musician, Roki from Zimbabwe.

Representing Nigeria is dramatic pop music sensation, Goldie.

For now, the names and ages of the celebrities are all that Big Brother has revealed, leaving viewers wondering how they will play the game or fit into the doubles theme.

Commenting on the series, M-Net Africa MD Biola Alabi said. "It's super to see the high level of interaction Stargame is getting from fans, media and viewers.

trying to play god. But the bottom-line is that the government is ready to dialogue with them anytime they are ready, but not with their threat."

A 35 YEAR-OLD pastor, Prosper Oguchi, has been remanded in Kirikiri prison for allegedly sleeping with an 11 year-old boy.

The suspect, arrested on Monday by men from Makinde Police Station in Oshodi, Lagos was charged to court yesterday for alleged sodomy. It was gathered that the accused was caught sleeping with the boy in his church, Glory Vineyard, Mafoluku, when he arrested.

It was learnt Ugochi who hails from Bende in Abia State, maybe using the act for ritual purpose.

Police spokesman Jaiyeoba Joseph said: “He was charged to court yesterday after his arrest on Monday.

He has since been remanded in prison.”

10

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Within the next two months there will be a moderate improvement in power supply and a renewed distribution model that will allow the distribution companies in their various areas to promote planned distribution and keep the citizens informed.

- Prof Barth Nnaji, Minister of Power

Electrification agency to settle N3b debts

Fed Govt generates N1.4b from mining

From John Ofikhenua,

From John Ofikhenua,

Abuja

Abuja

T

HE Federal Govern ment has allocated N3billion to the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) for the settlement of its outstanding verified debts owed members of the Association of Rural Electrification Contractors of Nigeria (ARECON).

The association, who disclosed this in a statement jointly signed by its National Chairman, Alhaji Isah Badamasi and the National Secretary, Noel Keyen, said the Federal Government has also allocated N3.2billion for the capital projects of the agency.

ARECON noted that the reopening of the REA vindicated the association’s objection to the closure of the agency.

It recalled that on September 15, 2009, the then Minister of Power Arc. Nuhu Wya alleged corruption scandal.

But the ARECON was of the position that even if REA had many cases in various courts and outstanding verified debts in billions of naira, the closure would be tantamount “to throwing the baby with the bath water and indeed the bath tub as well.”

The association said it further argued that to date, similar agencies exist in most developed countries to fill developmental gap between the urban and rural areas of such countries and Nigeria should not be an exemption.

Consequently, it congratulated the leadership and members of the National Assembly particularly the chairmen and members of the Senate and House Committees on Power for refusing to repeal the act as earlier requested by the then President Umar Yar’Adua administration.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$123.6/barrel Cocoa-$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE -N6.503 trillion JSE -Z5.112trillion NYSE -$10.84 trillion LSE -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -12.6% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -14.18% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $34.6b FOREX CFA 0.2958 EUR 206.9 £ 245 $ 156.4 ¥ 1.9179 SDR 241 RIYAL 40.472

F

• From left: Chairman, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Alhaji Kola Belgore; Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Alhaji Suleiman Barau, representing the CBN Governor and MD/CEO, AMCON, Mr Mustapha ChikeObi at the AMCON Road Show held in Abuja ... yesterday.

AMCON to go after debtors’ foreign assets T HE Asset Management Corporation of Nige ria (AMCON) will go after the foreign assets of debtors with tainted loan agreements, the Managing Director/CEO, Mustapha Chike Obi, has said.

Chike Obi, who spoke yesterday at the launch of the AMCON Road Show, in Abuja, admitted that some of the loans were executed by the bank, which connived with borrowers, leading to tainted assets.

This, he said, compelled AMCON to ask banks to state which of their loans are insider related, tainted or where assets of borrowers cannot pay the loan.

AMCON, he said, “has extensive legal backing to go after assets abroad, whether the asset is captured in the loan agreement or not and will declare some borrowers insolvent before going after them.”

He said AMCON is about appointing debt recovery agents across the country to recover the pending loans, as it has “another one and a

From Nduka Chiejina, Assistant Editor

half to two years to recover the debts.”

He stated that the agency is grappling with “dimensional borrowers” as a result of their spread in different states in the country, adding that AMCON has generated a database of debt recovery agents and lawyers to pursue different borrowers across the country.

Mr. Chike Obi also disclosed that AMCON had nothing to do with the two recently licensed non-interest banks.

On the fate of the three nationalised banks, he said the corporation is now in the process of evaluating what the entities are worth, adding that AMCON has so far received 44 Expressions of Interest (EoI), but has shortlisted 11 entries that would soon get Requests

for Proposals (RFPs). He said in another 46 weeks, AMCON will appoint/select the advisor for the nationalised banks.”

He said the affected banks were losing between N2 billion - N3 billion monthly before their take over, adding that currently, “they are running as profitable institutions. The banking industry sinking fund of 30 per cent basis point will fund the loses of selling the distressed banks.”

AMCON, as the largest user of the capital market, Chike Obi, explained, cares about what happens at the market and would support the capital market in any way it can. This he explained, is because AMCON is the largest domestic issuer of bonds, with assets of about N5 trillion, thus making it the largest financial institution in the country.

He said the corporation is

expected to reach its maximum size, sometime this year and decline as time goes on because of its 10 year life span. Consequently, he added that the corporation”will not engage in wastages.”

In her presentation, an Executive Director of the corporation, Mrs. Foluke Dosumu, said N1.3 trillion was spent to bail out the five distressed banks- Oceanic Bank, Intercontinental Bank, Fin Bank, Union Bank while Bank PHB, Afribank and Spring Bank were nationalised.

She said the loans will not be written off, as AMCON intends to recover them. But she stated the cost of the bailout “will be borne by the banking industry and not the tax paying Nigerian public who will never be called upon to pay for bank bailouts.

AMCON is trying to be transparent in its operations and it will not dispose off assets in secret but openly,” she added.

Nigeria made N428b from non-oil export, says Aganga

N

IGERIA made N428billion from non-oil export in the last one year, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, said yesterday.

This feat, he said, was achieved through proactive trade policies and incentives for non-oil exports introduced by the Ministry of Trade and Investment.

The minster disclosed this at the ministerial platform organised by the Ministry of Information to mark the President Goodluck Jonathan administration’s one year in office.

He noted that Nigeria had achieved a relatively high level of international penetration currently.

Aganga said: “In 2011, Nigeria exported non-oil products to 103 countries and territories out of 220. This shows signifi-

From Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

cant improvement over the previous years. There has been an increase in non-oil export to $2.765bn (N428bn at N155/ $), representing an increase of 19 per cent.

“The Export Expansion Grant is critical to the growth of the Nigerian export market. We have had wide consultations across all industry groups within the value chain of each commodity. New guidelines on EEG are expected shortly.”

The minister also disclosed that actual investments in Nigeria’s Free Trade Zones currently stood at $11.1billion , adding that 35,120 new jobs had been created in the zones.

Giving the breakdown of the investment inflows into the FTZs, the minister stated that the Onne Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone, in Rivers State, had attracted investment

worth $6billion, noting that investment commitments in the FTZ were worth $6.7bn in the last one year.

He added that other Free Trade Zones across the country under the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority also generated $4.4billion investment in the last one year, noting, however, that the Ministry of Trade and Investment was currently reviewing the operations of the Free Trade Zones to make them more functional.

Overall, Aganga said that Nigeria had secured over N6.6trillion investment commitment over the last one year.

“The breakdown of the total investment commitment showed that expected FDI into the country stood at N3.9 billion, while investment commitment from local investors stood at N2.7trillion,” he stated.

Aganga also said that the ministry had held over 70 meetings in over 12 countries, resulting in the renewed investment interest in Nigeria.

A very important achievement, according to the minister, is that in the last one year, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) had been able to reduce the volume of sub-standard products from 85 to 74 per cent, with a target of 30 per cent reduction by the end of this year.

He said notable improvement were recorded with life-endangering products, saying that the volume of substandard electric bulbs had been reduced from 80 per cent to 50 per cent; reinforced steel bar (45 per cent to 30 per cent); while the volume of substandard tyres reduced from 60 per cent to 50 per cent.

OLLOWING the re forms and capacity building undertaken by the World Bank’s Sustainable Management of Mineral Resources Project (SMMRP), the mining sector generated N1.4 billion in 2011, the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Musa Sada, has said.

The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Idris Kuta, spoke at the end of ‘Project Stakeholders’ Workshop in Abuja, yesterday. He said the capacity to improve revenue collection was engendered by the SMMRP through facilitation of the Mining Cadastre Office, the training of ministry staff and the provision of field vehicles required for effective mine site supervision.

He said prior to the commencement of the SMMRP in 2005, the mining sector generated about N215.5million, adding that the revenues were largely from licenses, fees and royalties.

He said the solid minerals’ sector is currently contributing positively to the non-oil sector growth in line with the government’s diversification agenda, as well as increasing its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 3 per cent in 2005 to nearly 10 per cent last year.

Nigeria leads South Africa, Angola in $40.6b FDI

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OREIGN Direct Invest ment (FDI) inflows to Nigeria, South Africa and Angola are forecast to average $40.6 billion per year over the next five years, a report by Ernst & Young, global accounting firm has said.

Ernst & Young polled 505 global executives, and 60 per cent said their perception of Africa as a business destination had improved over the past three years. Nearly three quarters said they believed Africa would become more attractive to potential investors over the next three years.

According to Reuters, this came as their oil and mineral reserves draw investors from emerging and developed markets, the report said.

Around a quarter of a million new jobs are likely to be created in the three countries as a result.

Intra-African investment has also been a significant driver of growth, with Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa among the top investors into the rest of the continent.

Nigeria topped the list of countries expected to draw significant funds over the next five years, with the report forecasting an average of $23 billion per year in FDI inflows and around 95,000 new jobs. But recent militant attacks in the continent’s top oil producer, which has been the largest African recipient of FDI over the last decade, could deter some investors, it added.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

12

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.

2.

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5.

6.

7.

8.

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

1.

2.

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Arik Aero Arik Aero

1. Arik 2. Aero 1.

2.

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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

He said: “we are doing a lot to revive the capital market. Not because this companies are not known yet but because many of the intrinsic value of their shares is higher than their market value but what is happening is that there is a loss of confidence by Nigerians. We are also trying to encourage new companies to list on the NSE, we want to make sure that MTN, Glo, Zain and all the companies that are doing very well and making billions of profit should also list on the capital market so that Nigerians can also share from their profits.”

The Minister also disclosed that the power generation and distribution companies that would be privatised

would be compelled to list their shares on the NSE. He said: “The power sector is also another big business in Nigeria and we are working to ensure that when we are regulating the sector, we want to do it in such a way that one or two people will not come into the sector to form a cartel. So to avoid this, we are also going to make sure that distribution companies that will operate in that sector list their shares so that after their privatisation, Nigerians will be given the opportunity to buy shares in these power generation and distribution companies.”

Also speaking at the event, the minister of finance, Okonjo-Iweala said her ministry Incorporated the investment arm of the ministry and government in 2011 and realised the

09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

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2.

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Arik Aero Arik Aero

LAGOS – WARRI 08.15 11.50 11.55 14.55

09.1 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 1. IRS 11.15 13.15 2. Arik 15.50 18.00 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

total sum of N 48,723,208,268.32 in dividend, operating surplus, directors fees, spectrum fees, rent, and privatisation proceeds, which has been transferred to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).

She said: “Two Revenue Monitoring exercises were conducted on MDAs both within and outside Abuja.

A total no. of 217 MDA were covered outside Abuja and the total sum of N18,639,627,755.07 was generated.”

Also the sum of N 17,862,333,814.87 was remitted and receipted into CRF leaving a balance of N777,293,940.20 as unreceipted/unremitted to be recovered in year 2012. Similarly, 146 MDAs were covered within Abuja and the total sum of N79,247,253,577.22 was generated.

Out of the above, the sum of N60,978,142,219.91 was remitted with CRF while the sum of N18,269,111,357.30 was outstanding.

Lagos wants derivation principle extended to VAT

By Miriam Ndikanwu

L

12.15 12.45

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

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

From Nduka Chiejina, Asst. Editor and Joseph Roseline Abuja

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HE Federal Government has resolved to compel telecom munications companies especially Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) companies among others to list their shares on the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE).

The Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Yerima Ngama disclosed this in Abuja yesterday during the ministerial platform for the 2012 democracy day celebration and first anniversary of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The emphasised that the era when multinational companies will come into Nigeria to make huge profit whereas the citizens benefit nothing from these profits will soon end with the compulsory listing.

Ngama also noted that the new policy will help boost investors’ confidence in the capital market as well as strengthen trading activities.

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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

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Fed Govt to force telecoms, electricity firms to list shares T

• From left: Business Development Manager, JK Micheals, Marzna Kowalzzyk, Principal Consultant, JK Micheals, Dr Bello Omololu, Country Manager, Oracle Nigeria, Mrs Olufunmilayo Ajayi and Channel Manager, Oracle Nigeria, Mrs Christie Elandu at the JK Micheals and Oracle breakfast meeting on Business Process Management at Eko Hotel and Suites Victoria Island, Lagos...yesterday.

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

PENCOM to sue non-compliant organisations

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HE National Pension Com mission (PENCOM) is con sidering a court action against non-compliant organisations, its Head, Research and Corporate Strategy Department, Dr Umaru Farouk Aminu has said.

Speaking with The Nation in a Lagos at a media parley, he said the Commission was worried about the development.

He lamented that there are over 2,616 defaulting employers across the country – a development that had prompted PENCOM to hire 73 recovery agents to recover outstanding pension contributions including the accrued interest.

The commission has for some times now battling recalcitrant employers over remittance of deducted pension contribution.

Dr Umaru Aminu explained that there are only six departments in

By Ayodele Aminu, Group Business Editor

PENCOM and not 42 as recently reported.

Chairman, Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria, Dave Uduanu, also flayed the decision of the Nigerian Army to pull out of the new pension scheme called the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

He said this is not good for the country as it would create additional financial burden, stressing that the same pension scheme should be adopted by everybody.

Earlier, Director General, PENCOM, Mohammed Kabir Ahmed, said that the CPS is a very simple antidote to the complexities of the past scheme.

He said the new scheme will ease the problem of retired workers going through hell to get their retire-

ment benefits.

“The new scheme is robust, safe and is poised to help retirees live well after their active life in employment,” he explained.

He said the new pension scheme has “placed in the hands of the contributor the responsibility for the contribution that is available in the Retirement Savings Account (RSA) upon retirement”.

Consequently, he said participants will have to take their destiny in their hands and there lies one of the major differences between the new system and the previous system. “Another major difference is that while pensioners in the old system travel long distances to be verified, the local office of the Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) manages that level of interface without any stress, thereby removing the need for continuous verification of pensioners.”

N2.7trn abandoned projects: Reps’ bill seeks BILL to give the Bureau of more powers for BPP Public Procurement (BPP)

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more power to ensure completion of abandoned project estimated at N2.7 trillion has passed through second reading at the House of Representatives.

Titled: “A bill for an Act to amend the Public Procurement Act No.14 of 2007 in order to ensure projects continuity and other matters appertaining to,” was supported overwhelmingly by members on the floor and was subsequently referred to the House Committee on Public Procurement for further legislative input.

The bill, sponsored by Hon Abiodun Abudu Balogun, (representing IjebuNorth/Ijebu East/ Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency in Ogun State), is to ensure that projects embarked upon by the

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

Federal Government are executed from inception to conclusion.

The lawmaker while presenting his arguments on the bill noted that there are thousands of abandoned projects dotting the country because of poor planning, corruption by civil servants/political heads, lack of accountability, inefficiency and ineptitude.

All over the country in our various constituencies, abandoned/uncompleted projects are scattered everywhere. Several motions have come up on this floor over abandoned or uncompleted road projects, bridges, schools, medical centers, dams, agricultural develop-

ment projects, airports, seaports, grain silos, Independent Power Projects.”

The lawmaker gave examples of abandoned projects such as AbujaAbaji-Lokoja Road, East-West Road, Lagos-Sagamu-Ore Expressway, Iwopin Paper Mills, Ajaokuta Steel Rolling Mills amongst others.

“According to official Government reports, over 11,800 projects have been abandoned or are uncompleted. Already N2.7 trillion has been spent and about N7.28 trillion will be needed to finance abandoned projects.

“According to reports in Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), out of 5100 contracts awarded, only 1550 were completed, 2982 being abandoned.

AGOS State Government has expressed the need for the Federal Government to extend its derivation principle to the Value Added Tax, just as is currently extended to oil producing state.

State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Ben Akabueze, who made the call yesterday at a press conference in Alausa, said this was necessary considering the government fund is grossly insufficient and does not allow it to meet the yearning needs of the teaming population.

“Lagos should also be accorded the special status it rightly deserves with respect to statutory revenue allocations. More could be achieved in the state if more funds were available through voluntary tax payment and if derivation principle was extended to VAT collections,” he said.”

He disclosed that a survey carried out in 2007 to analyse what is required to build infrastructure and meet the basic needs of the citizens carried out by the state government showed that over $50 billion would be required steadily over a period of 10 years.

Okonjo-Iweala laments high cost of housing From Franca Ochigbo and Roseline Joseph, Abuja

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HE Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala la mented the high cost of housing development in the country.

She said that one of the key bottlenecks to owning a home in Nigeria is the lack of well-functioning housing finance sector.

The Minister disclosed these at “The Mortgage Finance Roundtable of the Lands, Housing and Urban Development” in Abuja. She said that if the majority of Nigerians owned their home, this would considerably reduce the level of corruption in the country.

Noting that Nigeria mortgage penetration rate across Sub- Sahara Africa is 10per cent, the minister said the 20per cent interest rates on housing loan are too high.

“The cost of housing development in Nigeria is also too high, which significantly limits the number of Nigerians who can afford a home.

The housing sector also holds huge potentials for job creation and employment, particularly for our youths.

The National Bureaus of Statistics reports that the real estate market contributed 1.64% to the GDP in Q4, 2011, while the Building and construction contributed 1.99% to the GDP in Q4, 2011.

Many of the unskilled youths can find useful employment in this sector.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

AGRO-BUSINESS STATE FOCUS

Boosting food production in Lagos AGOS is the nation’s economic capital with vast potential and investment opportunities. Agriculture is an important contributor to the state’s economy.

With a population of about 20 million, Lagos is one giant market place with vast untapped opportunities in agriculture.

The state is moving away from a traditional agricultural commodity-based economy through to one that is more in tune with where markets are heading. This is essential for the state to advance economically and socially. Already, contributing 20 per cent of the nation’s’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Lagos’ agricultural potential, on both the demand and supply side, are huge. Last year , it consumed approximately 7.5 million tonnes of livestock. Of the total agricultural produce consumed in Lagos, the state produced 34 per cent of the food crops, 24 per cent of the livestock, and 31 per cent of fish. Approximately 22 per cent of the Lagos Island mass is water, which speaks volumes for investment opportunity in aquaculture and fisheries. The arable land is suitable for the cultivation of a wide range of crops, including rice and coconut.

The economy continues to grow at a strong pace, and consumer purchasing power is increasing. It wants to be self-sufficient in corn, wheat and rice, but it is also thelargest importer of soybeans.The government is prioritising the modernisation of its agricultural system, which reliesheavily on small producers.The residents enjoy food products and believe the products are safer; doubledigit growths in purchasing demand is anticipated.

The government presents agribusinesses with opportunities. There are no restrictions on foreign land ownership, there are ample opportunities for participation in the state agribusiness sector.

The state has intensified productive farming activities in the areas where it has comparative ecological and socioeconomic advantages. These include fisheries, livestock and vegetable production as well as agro-processing with emphasis on rice and cassava.

The Commissioner of Agriculture, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, said the government is determined to provide required services to farmers, fishermen and other stakeholders to enhance sustained productivity to meet reasonable level of food security; and

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•President Goodluck Jonathan during the launch of cassava bread at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. With him are Managing Director, UTC Plc, Mrs. Foluso Olaniyan (left); Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim; and Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akin Adesina.

Expert canvasses use of refrigerated vans for commodities

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DON, Prof Tola Atinmo, has called for the refrigeration of agro commodities being ferried by trains, saying it will enable more fruits and vegetables to get to the market in good condition.

Speaking with The Nation, Atinmo,who is the President, Federation of African Nutrition Societies, said the railways need to introduce refrigerated vans service to facilitate transportation of perishables in controlled conditions.

He said farm produce travel long distances from different parts of the country to reach outlets and processors. For this reason, he said the food transport system, commonly referred to as a ‘cold chain,’ needs to be developed to make this process efficient.

The system will procure ingredients from their places of growth and manufacture, spread across vast geographi-

Stories by Daniel Essiet

cal area and bring them to the distribution hubs. At these hubs, produce are processed and stored under controlled conditions. All retail supplies move from here to the customer’s premises daily.

By transporting the produce at a particular temperature, he said the cold chain ensures freshness and adequate moisture content of the perishable food products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and seafood.

He said improving the mode of transportation of fruits and vegetables will improve farmers’ and traders’ income.According to him, fresh fruits and vegetables are perishable and have a relative short shelf life.

Atinmo, who is of the Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Public

Health, College of Medicine, Ibadan, said the development of a refrigerated cool chain would improve the competitive position of Nigerian farmers in the field of fruits and vegetables.

Citing the case of tomatoes, Atinmo said it was important to ensure safe, highquality arrivals while in transit to the market. The industry, he explained, needs to promote higher-quality arrivals by maintaining freshness and extending the shelf life of conventional and organic produce during transport.

He said a specified temperature is maintained in the storage unit of the refrigerated trucks or containers during the journey.

He said the market demands longer shelf life, uniform grading of fruits, and more competitive commercial conditions to increase consumption.

He said farmers and food processors are finding it difficult to meet the strict standards set by customers for safe and timely delivery of material to each outlet as well as the physical movement of material and inventory control in a country with unreliable roads and other basic infrastructure bottlenecks such as power supply.

To meet these high standards, he said businesses must ensure that requirements for quality, temperature and packaging are met.

He said farmers lose their produce every year because the country lacks a cold chain infrastructure. Some microbial contamination incidents have led to increasing concerns about the safety of fresh food supply and the need for improved food safety control initiatives and standards by both the private and public sectors.

‘Rising feed prices hamper livestock production’ L IVESTOCK producers are groaning under higher feed costs. This is caus ed by increasing demands for corn and soybeans.

Production costs have climbed in every segment of animal agriculture. The main driver is feed, which accounts for about 70 per cent of total livestock production costs yearly.

Speaking with The Nation, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Dr Kola Adebayo, said corn accounts for about 90 per cent of feed grains used for feeds and that farm-level corn prices have jumped, thereby affecting those in livestock production.

Specifically, poultry producers, Adebayo said, are not able to make returns from their sales to cover the high production costs.

He said the rising costs are

absorbed livestock and poultry producers, often with significant financial loss. He noted, however, that it is not possible for the higher costs to reflected in higher prices because of glut in the market.

He said the run up in corn demand, which is expected to be long-lasting, has led to higher prices.

He said corn prices are expected to remain high, over the next few months . They may require a major corn production to take corn back to those levels.

Former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Prof Sheik Abdullahi, advised farmers to embrace the use of local and inexpensive agroindustrial and industrial byproducts and other wastes for the production of livestock

feeds.

This, he noted, would help to eliminate the problem of inadequate supply of livestock feeds.

During a workshop for Nigeria Poultry Feeds Research And Development (NIPOFERD) consortium organised by Platform for African European Partnership in Agricultural Research for Development (PAEPARD) in Ibadan, experts said feed constitutes 75 per cent of the cost of commercial poultry production in Nigeria.

Also, a poultry expert, Dr Olusegun Makanjuola, said the problems facing poultry business are not only that of high cost of input, but also that of egg glut.

He said many poultry farmers are having sleepless nights over their inability to

sell their eggs, which he said is threatening poultry industry in states such as Oyo. He also told many poultry farmers in Ibadan, Oyo State, at a recent public lecture and sensitisation programme that eggs are trailing behind ponmo (hides) in sales in the Southwest, adding that though it may be difficult to believe, but it is true.

Speaking on the topic: Egg marketing and why eggs is not being consumed by Nigerians in recent times, the veterinary doctor explained that there is an over-dependence of poultry farmers on the existing markets without them making effort to create new markets for their products, especially eggs.

He said the dwindling sales of poultry products such as eggs should be of concern to many stakeholders and that they should tackle the problem.

•Fashola

to encourage the populace to imbibe the culture and principles of cooperatives. The government has initiated a Strategic Food Reserve programme aimed at getting supplies from other parts of the state and processing same for distribution as part of the food stabilisation scheme in view of the increasing food consumption and demand.

The initiative started with rice.

A 20,000-tonne per annum capacity rice processing mill has been established at Imota in Ikorodu to process paddy rice. The test run of the mill has been completed and will be commissioned on May15, 2012. The product from the factory compares favourably with imported brands in terms of look and nutritional value.

The ‘Rice for Job’ initiative which has successfully re-introduced modern rice farming on 200 hectares annually with 200 youths has been deepened during the year. Thirty Hectares of modern irrigation facilities have been provided at Itoga while additional 300 youths are being selected to broaden rice cultivation in the state. The two existing cottage rice mills at Itoga in Badagry Division and Idena in Epe Division with a capacity of 600Kg/hour have been upgraded to provide a better product comparable with imported polished rice. This intervention will increase the total rice cultivation in the state to about 1,000 hectares as at planting season.

The Agriculture Youth Empowerment Scheme (AGRICYES) initiative has completed two full cycles of training, internship and settlement with 100 youths each. The first batch of youths that graduated in December, 2010 has been settled in newly built 100-unit two-bedroom flats at Araga Farm. They were also empowered with N454 million loan for the establishment of their farms payable in five years.

Participants for Courses II and III of the programme are ready for graduation and empowerment estimated at about N1 billion in the next few months.

Products from the scheme include over 1,500 crates of egg per day, 32,000 broilers per month, 18 tonnes of fresh fish per cycle and about 160 tonnes of cabbage, water melon, cucumber, pepper and assorted vegetables monthly.

There is an Agric-Yes project in Abia, Badagry fashioned after the Project-Songhai of Benin Republic. The Songhai model is a blueprint for translating the socio-demographic opportunities into reality, and turning agriculture into a productive, efficient, sustainable, and remunerative enterprise.

An average of 1,000 youths ,yearly,would be trained by the programme.To maximise the use of agricultural land, the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives has intensified the establishment of farm estates where beneficiaries would take advantage of economy of scale and collective action while operating.

The state government is providing the enabling environment to enable the private sector taking advantage of these initiatives.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION MAY, 2012 WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second column here have applied to the High Court Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties o the deceased.

NOTICES IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) day from the date hereof.

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NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

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Mrs Agnes Ada Adewunmi, late of 34A, Elan Road, Battersea SW 11 London deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of May, 2000 at Domiciled in England and Wales Mr Robert Ikhile (Otherwise known as Congo) late of Block 2, Flat 20, Festac Town Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of October, 2004 at Lagos.

Lydia Lamina (Otherwise known as John) late of 197, Railway Line Mushin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of March, 2011 at Lagos.

Mrs Ayisatu Florence Kusigbagbe (Otherwise known as Mrs Ayisatu Florence Ikusigbagbe) late of 13, Adebaiye Street, Tejuosho Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of December, 2005 at Lagos.

Adolphus Denis Igonibo (Otherwise known as Adolphus Igonibo Denis) late of 5, Adebayo Street, Anthony Village Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of December, 2006 at Lagos.

Mr Idowu Johnson Adedayo (Otherwise known as Mr Johnson Adedayo Idowu) late of 24, Ojokoro New Town Road Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of March, 2009 at Lasuth Ikeja.

Mrs Ayorinde Alice (Otherwise known as Ajibade Alice) late of 15, Aderupoko Street, Iwaya Yaba Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

Mrs Esther Olatunde Taiwo (Otherwise known as Esther Olatunde Taiwo) late of 12, Olorunsogo Street, Shomolu Palmgrove Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of April, 2004 at Lagos.

Austin Gbolahan Odegbami (Chief) (Otherwise known as Chief Odegbami Austin Gbolahan) late of 2/8 Iyala Street, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of April, 2006 at Lagos.

Ibraheem Usman (Otherwise known as Ibrahim Usman) late of Snake Island Igbogbo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of April, 2011 at Lagos.

Anorue Martins late of Koya Estate Phase II, Igbo Olomu Ikorodu, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

Alh. Munirudeen Olumide Abijo (Otherwise known as Abijo Muniru Olumide) late of 4, Inaotanwo Street, Aga Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 2 nd day of March, 2011 at Lagos.

Mrs Evelyn Sualeze, late of 18, Aguntasolo Street, Ijesha Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of September 2010 at Lagos.

Oladayo Oluwatosin (Otherwise known as Oladayo Samson) late of 13B, Rasak Abass Close Akute, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of November, 2009 at Lagos.

John Shaibu (Otherwise known as Shaibu John) late of 1, Ogo Oluwa Close, Oworonsoki Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of August 2009 Chief Mathew Oluwole Taiwo (Otherwise known as Taiwo Mathew Oluwole) late of Close 55, House 4, Satellite Town Lagos , deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of April, 2011 at lagos.

Dosumu Oluseye O. (Otherwise known as Dosumu Samuel Oluseye Owolabi) late of 12, Olopade Street, Obawole Iju Ishaga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of April, 2007 at Mercy Medical Centre, Oko Oba. Makinde Tunde (Otherwise known as Mr Babatunde Ayinde Makinde) late of 7, Mba Street, Ajegunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of February, 2010 at SSA Ojo Clinic Lagos.

Ibitoye Olasunkanmi (Otherwise known as Olugbenga Titus) late of 16, Alhaji Raheem Street, Off IBTC Ayobo Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of July, 2011 at Lagos.

Adebayo Rasak Oyekunle late of 4, Senate Crescent Unilag Estate, Magodo Isheri Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of July, 2010.

Ifeanyi Cosmas Anyiam (Otherwise known as Anyiam Cosmas Ifeanyi ) late of Flat 6, Block 3 “C” Close, 402 Road Festac deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of December, 2011 at Imo State.

Cosma Eze late of Flat 7 Block 3, T Close 7th Avenue Festac deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of September, 1984 at Ibialumuna village.

Collins Omonfoma late of 1, Mercy Close, Gemade Estate, Ipaja Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

Mr Chiuwa Emmanuel Enyinna (Otherwise known as Chiuwa Emmanuel) late of 111 Road, F Close, Block 2, Flat 6, Festac Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of June, 2010 at Lagos.

Ugwu Titus Chijioke (Otherwise known as Titus Ugwu Chijioke) late of 17, Ejire Street, Itire Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of January, 2009 at Lagos.

Ogorchukwu Saye (Otherwise known as Raphael Ogorchukwu Saye) late of 4, Church Street, Ketu Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of May, 2010 at Lagos.

Aweda Sule late of 24, Bale street, Orile Iganmu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

Alhaji Musendiq Abiodun Bakare late of No. 1 Ashimowu Street, new Garage Gbagada, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of April, 2008 at Tenny’s Clinic Gbagada.

Emmanuel Olayiwola Banjo (Otherwise known as Mr Banjo Emmanuel Olayiwola) late of 22, Odunlami Street, Anthony Village Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of January, 2006 at Lagos.

Okpara Sabastine late of No. 13, Aduke Street, Iyana Ajangbadi, Ojo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of April, 2009 at Lagos University Teaching Hospital,Idi Araba Lagos.

Egejuru Daniel late of 12, Michael Agedo Street, Igando, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

Otuyelu Yinka late of 300 Muritala Muhammed Way, Yaba Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of October, 2004 at Lagos.

Mr James Gbadebo Sowemimo late of 6, Craig Street, Shomolu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of September, 1973 at Ikorodu.

Ladipo Ogunade (Otherwise known as Mr J.L.Ogunade) late of Block 104, Flat 6, Iponri Estate, Surulere , Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of March, 2005 at Dorlem Specialist Hospital Surulere.

Okoli Ekene late of 9, Animashaun Street, Ijeshatedo Surulere, Lagos, who died intestate on the 9th day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

Mrs Kende Igbodipe (Otherwise known as Igbodipe Kehinde Olufunso) late of No. 4, Soyebo Street, Sabo Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of May, 2009 at General Hospital.

Mr Abojei Christopher Ikechukwu (Otherwise known as Abojei Christopher ) late of House 1, Zone 4 Road 3 Purewater Badagry Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15, April, 2011 at Badagry, Lagos.

Equoba Bright (Otherwise known as Eguaoba Bright Ihnolagbaen) late of 19, Abeokuta Street, Egbeda, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

Kasali Bamidele Gbenro (Otherwise known as Alhaji Gbenro Kasali Bamidele, Gbenro Kasali Babatunde and Okegbenro) late of 95, Odutayo Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of November, 2003 at Lagos.

Salami Salmon Oladipo (Otherwise known as Mr Salmon Salami) late of No. 4, Sadatu Street, Oregun Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of March, 2008 at Lagos.

Miss Mayodele Mopelola Olokun (Otherwise known as Mrs Mayodele Mopelola Agbebi and Olokun Agbebi Mayo) late of 50, Okesanya Street, Papa Ajao, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of March, 2008 at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja.

Mwo Amubieya Joseph (Rtd) late of 38, Adeola Street, Igando, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of January, 2012 at Lagos.

Joseph Augustine Izuagie late of 2, Alhaji Ashafa Street, Ojodu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of May, 2010 at Lagos.

Uneke Sylavanus Uchenna James (Otherwise known as James Uchenna Uneke and James Sylavanus Uchenna Uneke and Sylavanus Uchenna James) late of 11, Towolawi Street, Coker Orile Iganmu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of December, 2009 at Ikorodu.

Aluko Michael late of 19, Akintunde Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

Prof. Olusegun Adewale Odukomaiya late of 38, Oyedele Oguniyi Street, Anthony Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of March, 2010 at Ibefun Ijebu Ode , Ogun State.

Mr Enera Ambrose late of 10, Okiola Close, Volks Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of October, 2004 at Ubiaja Edo State.

Felix Abulime late of 49, Aina Street, Ojota, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of August, 2009 at Lagos.

Iwelu E. Love (Otherwise known as Love E. Iwelu) late of No. 3, Oyeleke Street, Alausa, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of August, 2010 at Asaba Delta State.

Nwachi Johndu (Otherwise known as Johndu Nwachi) late of 25, Alaba International Market Ajangbadi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of October, 2011.

Rabiu Mukaila Alade Oladega late of 15, Ladega Street, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of July, 2011.

Solomon Okuanyionu (Otherwise known as Okuanyionu Solomon) late of 35, Mabadeje Street, Lowa, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of July, 2011.

Mr Ajimisan Olatunji, late of 39, Tokotaya Street, Amore Lowa Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of September, 2009 Ojiaku Alphonsus late of No. 11, Cemetery Street, Via Ajeromi/Ifelodun Secretariat, Ajegunle Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of November, 2009 at Ajegunle, Lagos.

Samuel Adetunji late of 8/9 Oyadiran Estate, Onike Sabo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of September, 1976 Mr Bamidele Oyebanjo Sgt. 93 NA/37/634 late of 9b, Shopeju Street, Alasia Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of October, 2010 Mrs Dorcas Ayodeji Omogbehin (Otherwise known as Dorcas Ayodeji Omogbehin) late of Block 471, Flat 2, LSDPC Estate, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of February, 2006 at Broomfield England.

Chief (Mrs) Folashade Alake Sanu-Rhodes (Otherwise known as Chief (Mrs) F.A.Shanu-Rhodes) late of 40, Fashoro Street, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of October, 2004 at Abeokuta Jackson Gabriel Onovwioba, late of NAF Base Block P8 Flat 5, Ikeja deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of May, 2009 at Otta.

Mr Suleiman Oke (Otherwise known as Sule Oke) late of No. 10, Okanlawon Street, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of January, 2010 .

Olayinka Abiodun Samsudeen, late of 49, Abiodun Street, Shomolu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of May, 2009 at IjebuOde. Moses Azuonwu Obialo (Otherwise known as Obialor Moses Azuanwu) late of 12, Umunya Street, Okota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of May, 1992 at Imo State Olayiwola Kosebinu late of 106, Ipaja Road, Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of January, 2003 at Lagos.

Emeka Ajunam late of No. 5, Adeniran Ajao Street, Anthony Village, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of April, 2001 at Lagos.

Mr Zacheus Adebisi Soneye (Otherwise known as Soneye Zacheus Adebisi) late of 4, Oluwalogbon Street, Somolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of June, 2009.

Oshogbe Janet Lady (Otherwise known as Lady Janet Oshogbe and Janet lady Oshogbe) late of Block 414, Flat 5, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of May, 2009 Ganiyu A. Dawodu late of 8, Calvary Street, Ajegunle, Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

Kikelomo George (Otherwise known as Mrs Kike George) late of 7, Sumonu Street, Iba Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of June, 2007 at Ogun State.

Mr Afiah Emmanuel late of9, Bolaji Street, Ogba, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

Ayorinde Moses Adekunle (Otherwise known as Ayorinde Adekunle Moses) late of 46, Sedo Street, Ajara Vetho Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of May, 2010 at University College Hospital, Ibadan.

Adisa Adeniyi (Otherwise known as Mr Adeniji Adisa) late of 32, Road 3rd Avenue Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of September, 2010 at Lagos.

Yusuff Gbolahan Dauda (Otherwise known as Yusuff Dauda) late of 11, Afanda Street, Ilasamaja Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of September, 2011 at Mowe.

Ibilola Nelson (Otherwise known as Nelson Ibilola) late of 14, Abayomi Street, Lawanson Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of November, 1973 at Luth.

Mrs Elizabeth Nwoko late of 4, Sherifat Street, Satellite Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of November, 2008 at Lagos.

Alhaji Awonbiowo Kolawole late of 12, Kola Awonbiowo Street, Ajuwon, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3 rd day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

Mr Aigbonbhi O. Thompson late of 13, Isale Adini Street, Omole Ogba Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of June, 2011.

Mr Anyanwu Andrew late of 14, NBC Road, Ebute Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of November, 2011 at Ikorodu, Lagos.

Mr Joseph Abiodun Komolafe late of Plot 5 Olufemi Kolawole Street, Okota, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of May, 2010

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NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

Clementine Olabode Oluwabukola Ada Amawo of 37, Hampden Road, grays Esex daughter of the said deceased.

Kehinde Edna Ketu Adeyemi of 201 Road C Close Block 2, Flat 20, Festac Town, Lagos, the only child of the said deceased.

Johnson A. Lamina of 36, Omoba Jesu Street, Akowonjo, Lagos and Sesan Lamina of 16, Oke Eri Street, Oworonsoki Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Adeola Akinrodoye and Mr Isiaka Adebayo Folarin both of 13, Adebaiye Street, Tejuosho Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Mrs Blessing Igonibo and Tamuno Omisiki Kalio both of 5, Adebayo Street, Anthony Village Lagos, widow and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Idowu Funke Olubunmi and Miss Idowu Olaide Omowunmi both of 24, Ojokoro New Town Road, Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Afere Kehinde O. and Mr Fagbayi Adefunke O. both of 15, Aderupoko Street, Iwaya Yaba, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Olayinka Adejoke Oni of 50, Ajose Street, Mende Maryland and Adeite Olawunmi Taiwo of 12, Olorunsogo Street, Shomolu Palm grove Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Mrs Margaret A.Odegbami, Yvonne Olayiele Odegbami and Austin Gbolahan Odegbami (Jnr) all of 2/8 Iyala Street, Alausa Ikeja Lagos, three children of the said deceased.

Blessing Usman and Akoji Jonathan, both of Snake Island Igbogbo Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Catherine Anorue and Martins Anorue (Jnr) both of Koya Estate Phase II, Igbo Olomu Ikorodu, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Abijo Olusola Oladapo, Abijo Hammed Damilola, Abari Jemilat and Abijo Asisat all of 7, Abijo Street, Ayegbami Shagamu, Lagos four of the children of the said deceased.

Afam Sualeze and Princess Sualeze both of 18, Aguntasolo street, Ijesha Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Eunice Idowu Oluwatosin and Kehinde Oluwatosin both of 13B, Rasak Abass Close Akute lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Esther Shaibu and Godwin Shaibu both of 1, Ogo Oluwa Close Oworonsoki Bariga Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Chief (Mrs) Adetola Olayinka Taiwo and Mr Aderogba Olufemi Taiwo both of Close 55, House 4 Satellite Town, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Dosumu David Olusegun, Dosumu Bimbola O. and Dosumu Oluwayomi J. all of 26, Makurdi Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, three brothers of the said deceased.

Olawale Makinde, Muyiwa Makinde both of 7, Mba Street, Ajegunle Lagos. and Oluwatosin Makinde of 231 Old Abeokuta Motor Road, Agege, Lagos three children of the said deceased.

Ibitoye Tolase O. of 16, Alhaji Raheem Street, Off IBTC Ayobo Lagos, and Mr Musibau Oderinde of 21 Kareem Street, Atan Kekere Ayobo Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Mulikat Titilayo Adebayo and Mrs Mufuliatu Adefunke Adebayo both of 4, Senate Crescent, Unilag Estate Magodo Isheri Lagos, two widows of the said deceased.

Mrs Chinwe Anyiam and Mr Ikechukwu Anyiam both of Flat 6, Block 3 “C” Close 402 Road Festac, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Cosmas Chijioke Eze Jnr of Ihalumuna Village Nsukka and Kenneth U. Eke of Flat 7, Block 3, T Close, 7 Avenue Festac one of the children and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Constance Osemobor and Pedro Omonfoma both of 1, Mercy Close, Gemade Estate, Lagos, sister and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Chiuwa Victoria Chinyere and Chiuwa Roseline both of 111 Road, F Close, Block 2, Flat 6, Festac Town, Lagos widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Ugwu Basil of Aku, Igbo Etiti LGA Enugu State and Ozo Jonas of 12, Lagos State Itire Lagos, brother and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Anthonia Saye, Godwin A. Saye, Shadrack Uti and Nneka Uti all of 4, Adeola Almorof Street, Off Chris Oladunni Street, Ejigbo Lagos widow, two brothers and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Aweda Taofeek, Mr Aweda Azeez and Mr Aweda Sheriff both of No. 24, Bale Street, Orile Iganmu, Lagos. three of the children of the said deceased.

Alhaja Olatunbosun Akinola, Mr Omotayo Bakare, Mrs Kudirat Tiamiyu and Bakare Rasheed Abisoye all of 42, Iyase Street, Ketu, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Olabisi Sobande of 5, Anjorin Street, Iju Ishaga, Lagos and Mr Babatunde Okunuga of 19/21 Adeola Adeoye Street, By Olowu Street, Ikeja the only child and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Nkechi S. Okpara of No. 13, Aduke Street, Iyano Ajangbadi, Ojo Lagos and Elder Patrick N. Modekwe of Christ Holy Church International Fatimo Street, Agboroko Iba, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Justina Egejuru and Mr Paschal Egejuru both of 12, Michael Agedo street, Igando Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Olugbemi Oluwayelu of 6, John Akinjide Street, Ikeja Lagos, the only child of the said deceased.

Dr B.O. Sowemimo of 1, Agbor Close, Ajao Estate, Lagos and Mr Peter Adeniyi Sowemimo of 1, Agbele Ikolo Road, Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Adeyinka Ogunade of Block 104, Flat 6, Iponri Housing Estate, Surulere, Lagos and Mrs Modupeola Otubanjo of Block 15, Plot 23, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Victoria Island Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Chief P.C. Okoli and Anaemeka Okoli both of 9, Animashaun Ijeshatedo Surulere, Lagos father and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Opanubi Omowunmi and Temitope Igbodipe both of 4, Abiola Soyebo Street, Sabo Ikorodu, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Abojei Kennedy Ifeanyi and Abojei Benjamin Ify both of Zone 4, Road 3, House 1 Badagry Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Aina Eguaoba and Eguaoba Joseph both of 19, Abeokuta Street, Egbeda, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Taofik Gbenro, Olayinka Gbenro, Mrs Ganiat Adegbayike all of 95, Odutayo Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos and Alhaja Latifat Oganla of 58A, Kudirat Abiola Way Oregun, Lagos four of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Risikat Ayoka Salami, Olamide Ayoola Oladapo, Olaniyi Adewale Oladapo and Miss Gokesokun Oladapo all of No. 4, Sadatu Street, Oregun Ikeja, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Babatunde Solabomi Agbebi and Sunday Afolabi Olokun both of 50 , Okesanya Street, Papa Ajao Mushin, Lagos, the only child and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Benice Amubieya, Victoria Amubieya, Dupe Amubieya and Kayode Amubieya all of 38, Adeola Street, Igando Lagos widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Austin Izuagie, Nicholas Izuagie and Francis Izuagie all of 2, Alhaji Ashafa Street, Ojodu, Lagos three of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Uchenna Ejimole Victoria and Ogbu Matthias both of 11, Towolawi Street, Coker orile Iganmu, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Racheal T. Aluko and Odunayo E. Aluko both of 19, Akintunde Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Olusola Olufemi Oduko of Plot 16, Olayinka Balogun Crescent, Magodo G.R.A. Ikeja Lagos and Adeola V. Adeyemi of 37, Akinola Street, Bariga Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Comfort Enera and Mr Kenneth Enera both of 10, Okiola Close, Volks Ojo, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Tina P. Abulime (Mrs) and Henry W. Omorawa both of 49, Aina Street, Ojota Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Irene Iwelu of No. 3, Oyeleke Street, Alausa Lagos, and Mr George Iwelu of 1 & C Close, Gowon Estate, Egbeda, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Okechukwu Joel Nwachi and Chidera Nwachi both of 25, Alaba International Market Ajangbadi Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Oladega Rafiu Bamidele and Oladega Ibrahim Olugbenga both of 15, Ladega Street, Ikorodu, Lagos two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Cecilia Okuanyionu and Mr Godpower Okuanyionu both of 35, Mabadeje Street, Lowa, Ikorodu, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Ajimisan G. Bola and Ajimisan Timothy both of No. 39, Tokotaya Street, Ikorodu, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Leticia Nneka Ojiaku, Ijeoma Ojiaku (Miss) both of No. 11, Cemetery street, Olodi Apapa Lagos and Sunday Ojiaku of No. 17, Abeje Street, Off Ojo Road, Aiyetoro, Ajegunle, Lagos, widow, one of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Alhaja Kofoworola Gololo Oyadiran and Dupe Oyadiran both of 8/9, Oyadiran Estate, Onike, Sabo Yaba, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Mopelola Oyebanjo, Afeez Oyebanjo and Bola Oyebanjo all of 9B, Shopeju Street, Alasia Oshodi, Lagos, widow , brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Godwin Abiodun A. Omogbehin and Mrs Sabinah Oyinlade Adewole both of Block 471, Flat 2, LSDPC Estate, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos two children of the said deceased.

Olabisi Olowoyo (Nee Sanu) and Mr Olamide Sanu both of 40, Fashoro Street, Surulere, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Onovwioba Esther and Onovwioba Francis both of NAF Base Block P8 Flat 5, Ikeja, Lagos two of the children of the said deceased.

Mr Akeem Oke, of No. 10 Okanlawon Street, Agege, Lagos and Adijat Oke of No. 25, Adeniyi Street, Agbado, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Mr Tajudeen Ishola Olayinka of CG 27, Federal Housing Ipaja, Lagos and Mrs Subedat Olayinka Raji of 15, Akanbi Arimi Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Ugochukwu Obialo of 28, Ilesanmi Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, lagos and Irene Ajaero of 12, Umunya Street, Okota, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Abosede Kosebinu of 18, Humani Street, Agege, Lagos, and Omofunmilewa Jombo of 1C, Humani Street, Agege, Lagos, one of the children and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Miss Regina Anuli Ajunam of 5, Adeniran Ajao Street, Anthony Village Lagos and Mr Adamu Azuka Ajunam of 14, Ijora Causeway Ijora, Lagos, sister and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Alice Soneye and Mr Ayodele Toyin Soneye both of 4, Oluwalogbon Street, Somolu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Florence Adesola of Block 414, Flat 5, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos, one of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Rukayat Adetoun Dawodu and Mrs Mariam Adefunmilayo Dawodu both of 8, Calvary Street, Ajegunle Ikorodu, Lagos, two widows of the said deceased.

Mr George Wisdom and Mr George Ebitan Oluwaseun both of 7, Sumonu Street, Iba New Site, Ojo, Lagos widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Comfort Emmanuel, Esther Emmanuel and Utibe Emmanuel all of 7, Bolaji Street, Ogba, Lagos widow and two children respectively of the said deceased.

Ayorinde Comfort Viyon and Ayorinde Oluwafunke S. both of 46, Sedo Street, Ajara Vetho Badagry, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Titilayo Adisa and Master Lateef Adisa both of 32, Road 3rd Avenue Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Kuburat A. Yusuff and Rahman Tope Yusuff both of 11, Afanda Street, Ilasamaja Mushin, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Irene Adetola Akinyemi of No. 17, Ogunsiji Street, Off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, Mr Adeyemi Nelson of No. 1, Soji Adepegba Street, Off Allen Avenue Ikeja Lagos, Mrs Elizabeth Adetokunbo Osinubi and Mrs Caroline Adedoyin Ogunbiyi both of 5, Olaribiro Street, Off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

Nwoko Ngozi, Nwoko Nkechi and Nwoko Innocent all of 1, Odubale Street, Akute Ogun State three of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Taibat Awonbiowo and Bisola Karimot Awonbiowo both of 12, Kola Awonbiowo Street, Ajuwon Lago, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Florence O. Aigbonbhi of 13, Isale Adini Street, Ogba, Lagos and Mr O.Aigbonbhi Sunday of 28, Fatokun Street, Off Giwa Iju Agege, Lagos widow and thr only child respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Maria Anyanwu and Mr Christogonus Anyanwu both of 14, NBC Road Ebute Ikorodu, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Mojisola Aduke Komolafe and Mr Olumide Komolafe both of Plot 5 Olufemi Kolawole Street, Okota, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

G.A SAFARI (EQS.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

Award

DIALOGUE

ISSUE

NGO trains 12 families

Workers urged to embrace peace

Women protest community’s leadership

Bauchi

18

Enugu

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

27

Warri

50

Page 17

Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Okorocha targets 2,000 new jobs in water project

I

•Okorocha

MO State Governor Rochas Okorocha has inaugurated a water project built by the new management of Imo Transport Company (ITC).

The governor hopes the project, christened Imo Rescue Mission Free Water, will generate no fewer than 2,000 jobs.

Okorocha who was represented by the new Managing Director of ITC, Mr. Emeka Duru, admitted that the gesture would go a long way in alleviating the

From Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri

water challenges in the company and the entire neighbourhood.

He applauded the magnanimity of Global Ginikana Services Ltd, the new managers of the state-owned transport company and its commitment to make ITC the best road transport company in the country, adding that the team has deeply implemented the rescue mission agenda in its

management style.

Meanwhile, Mr. Duru who later spoke to reporters on his capacity as Managing Director of ITC, disclosed that his company has been in control of ITC management for over four months and that their agreement to manage the company with the state government was for the period of 10 years with the payment of N250m yearly.

He added that the concession is aimed at ensuring sound management of the company, comfort

of passengers and creation of employment for Imo people.

The ITC management boss pointed out that his company has paid the total sum of N210m to the state government and will be paying N50m.

He stressed that in line with Okorocha’s directive, the company has not sacked anybody and does not even intend doing so, stating that it rather recalled some workers who were •Continued on Page 18

Obi’s wife provides tools Awka, Onitsha, Aguata jails equipped

L

IFE is tough enough for people serving jail terms without having to roam the streets upon the completion of their terms. To avoid this tragedy, the wife of Anambra State governor Mrs. Margaret Peter Obi has equipped three prisons in the state with vocational tools for use of the inmates. The idea is for them to learn a trade upon which to build a new life when their jail terms are over. The prisons are located in Awka, the state capital, Onitsha, its commercial nerve, and Aguata- Ekwulobia.

There are over 1400 youths languishing in Anambra State prisons, said the state branch of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO). Of the number, less than 200 are convicted prisoners while over 1200 are awaiting trial. Also over 29 inmates whose family members of relatives have never visited are said to be mentally retarded. Moreover, the prisons accommodate hundreds of inmates more than their installed capacities.

In order to help inmates to lead better lives on leaving their cells, Mrs Obi has purchased and equipped the prisons with skill acquisition machines and tools worth over N10m. The tools are for carpentry, hairdressing, sewing, welding, shoemaking, tailoring, wood work, among others.

She and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Mrs Ego Uzoezie, are committed to changing the face of the state prisons. They have the backing of the state government.

Awka, Onitsha and Aguata prisons have been equipped with the tools.

•Uzoezie and the visiting team in one of the vocational skill acquisition rooms at Onitsha prisons

Vocational skills for prison inmates From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

Representing her husband, Mrs. Obi visited the prisons in Awka, Onitsha and Aguata. At Aguata she was conducted round the prisons by the Chief Superintendent of Pris-

ons, Andrew Chiedu Ejenam. The comptroller of the state command, Patrick Ondoma was also on hand.

Mrs Obi urged the inmates to avail themselves of the opportunity provided by the government before coming out of prison. She urged the prison officials to make

judicious use of the skill tools and the consumables donated to them.

She said it was an opportunity to reflect on their lives but lamented the conditions of those awaiting •Continued on Page 48

•Mrs Margaret Obi

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

18

NGO trains 12 families

S

• Governor Akpabio

TEPPING Stones Nigeria Child Empowerment Foundation (SSNCEF), an NGO, has trained 12 families on soap making on a commercial scale, in Esit Eket Local Government Council of Akwa Ibom State .

Mr Edjo Okonubin, SSNCEF Advocacy Officer, made this known while speaking at the Government Primary School, Ikpa Community, Esit Eket.

Okonubin said the training was part of the organisation’s livelihood skills programmes for parents to improve the household’s incomes of indigent families supply their children with basic needs of life.

He noted that the NGO believed that poverty alleviation was a potent way of preventing child abuse.

“According to a recent UN study, seven

Okorocha targets 2,000 new jobs in water project •Continued from Page 17

illegally disengaged before they took over the management of the company.

According to Duru, the major problem in the transport company has been the issue of workers not ready to work, and a situation where ITC staff see their job as civil service structured job, maintaining that they have come to revive the company for the good of Imo people.

He noted that his company has set up a fuel dump for ITC buses and plans to establish car wash centre in the premises as another way to save money and time, maintaining that in the next six months, Imo state will have an investment of N2.5 Billion in ITC, which according to him, will create more employment opportunities and revenue for the state.

N

Duru noted that his company is targeted at creating 2000 jobs for Imo graduates, adding that 170 employment opportunities had been created so far for graduates, 72 for new drivers with another 50 more opportunities for graduates and 100 for drivers that would be created soon for Imo citizens.

While stating that his company has spent N1.2 Billion since it take over the ITC management, especially in procuring new buses, Duru stressed that they inherited the sum of N134 million debts which it had called upon the state government for a possible assistance.

The transport manager however assured Imo people that ITC will be restored as the most safest, cheapest and comfortable transport company in the country under the new management.

Chime urges workers to embrace peace, dialogue

Akwa Ibom million orphans and vulnerable children in Nigeria are living in poverty and it is estimated that the number could rise to 10 million by 2015.

“Several other studies have established that most parents who live in poverty, do not treat their children affectionately,’’ he said.

According to him, the study also indicates that : ‘’children who grow up in poverty can be vulnerable to some forms of maltreatment, particularly neglect and physical abuse.

“At SSNCEF, we understand that poverty creates an environment that is damaging to the development of children in all aspects.

“It affects their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being,” Okonubin said .

He said that outstanding participants would be given grants to enable them set up their own soap making business.

Replying on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Uduak Etim thanked the NGO for the gesture.

She appealed to the organisation to expand the project to accommodate more families to enable them cope with challenges of life.

T

HE Imo State government has entered into partnership with an American company, Jesus Mary and Joseph Holdings to develop an estate with 500 units of houses that will be known as Diaspora Village.

Speaking in an interview with Journalists in Government House, Owerri after a meeting with Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha, the Chief

G

OV ERNOR Sullivan Chime of Enugu State has called on workers in the state to always tow the path of peace and dialogue and also expose corrupt tendencies in their offices.

Chime made the call in his address to the workers at a rally to mark the 2012 May Day celebration at the Michael Okpara Square in Enugu.

Chime, represented by the Head of Service, Mr Dennis Eze, said the advancement of any society depended

Group praises Lagos on security •From left: Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, Hon. Minster of Agriculture, Mr Onajite Okoloko, GCEO Notore Chemical Industries Limited, Barr. Efiok Cobhams, Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Nduka Obaigbena, Publisher This Day Newspapers at the just-concluded South South Summit in Asaba, Delta State

Imo to build Diaspora Estate Imo From Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri

Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Timothy Barton, said the 500 buildings would be of same class and quality of such estate in Texas, United States of America.

200 vocational students graduate

O fewer than 200 students have graduated from various vocational skills centres established by the Agege Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The centre within the council secretariat was established in 2002 through the collaborative effort of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

So far, the centre has churned out over 3,000 youths in various skills.

Speaking at the ceremony, the council chairman, Alhaji Jubreel AbdulKareem said the graduation of the trainees signified the success of the third tier of government in empowering youths and unemployed women both educationally and economically.

According to him, the centre which comprises of functional units such as the hairdressing and cosmetology centre, catering and home management centre, fashion designing centre, adult education and computer training centre have empowered a good number of people who are making use of their acquired knowledge for the benefit of the nation and

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

their lives.

The council’s Supervisor for Education, Hon Olu Otubu, hailed the granduands for their patience, perseverance and sense of industry.

Otubu enjoined them to use the skills to the economic advantage of their families and communities.

He stressed that it is only by doing this that they would fulfill the purpose for the establishment of the centre.

The training, he said, has helped many people to acquire practical skill which will enable them to be self reliant.

There were exhibitions by different centre of cakes and pastries, designed outfit, hand crafted beads and several other while some adult learners entertained the guests with their reading and writing skills.

AbdulKareem enjoined parents to enroll their wards at the centre especially before they gain admission to higher institution.

•Some of the pasteries and confectioneries designed by the trainees. (Inset) Alhaji AbdulKareem

47

Barton explained that his company will kick-start the project with 200 units of houses and later extend to 500 units in its second phase. He hinted that work would begin by October, adding that forms would be made available for interested buyers at a reduced cost.

The chief executive maintained that the opportunity would further strengthen the bi-lateral relationship between Imo State and State of Texas in the United States of America.

He, however, urged Imo citizens in Diaspora to embrace this opportunity by visiting home and contribute to the ongoing development of the state.

He also expressed satisfaction and confidence in the dynamic leadership of Okorocha and pledged to be part of the transformation agenda of Imo Rescue Mission.

Briefly

Church marks second anniversary •Wife of Chairman, Eredo Local Council Development Area, Mrs Funmilayo Adelaja displaying an award received from National Pillar on Development on behalf of her husband, Hon Omolaja Adelaja at Sheraton Hotels, Abuja

Council chief urges support

T

HE Chairman Caretaker Committee of Ibadan North Local Government Hon. Babatunde Lapade has urged the people of the state to be patient with the governor Isaq Abiola Ajimobi in his transformational agenda.

Hon Lapade made this call in a chat with our correspondent at his Agodi office in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

He said the residents of the state expect much from the present administration because they had had unpleasant experience in the hands of political vampires in the past but there is a need for patience and understanding since Rome was not built in a day.

According to him” people expect much from us because they have been ruled in wrong way for a very long time and since we have promised them that we are going to transform the state, they are all in hurry to see the fulfilment of our promises. But in order to correct those things, we are begging them to be patient as we shall execute all our promises in due cause.

He added: “Another thing we are trying to do is to change their orientation because some of them believe that governance is all about going there and collecting money and blow it off because that is the

By Jeremiah Oke

way the past administration operated. But we are trying to sensitise them that this is a different administration which is ready to improve the living standard of the masses in the state and we are making our programme transparent to all and sundry to avoid corruption.

Recounting his achievements, the council chair said in his nine months in office, he has successfully completed four bridges, new 1800 kilometres of road abandoned for several years, graded major roads to combat flood, sunk 15 boreholes in different areas of the local government,built six public toilets in different areas, rehabilitated some health centres with work on additional two.

The council chief reiterated his commitment to serving the people of the local government and also highlighted his pipeline project for the residents.

• Lapade

OPEN Heaven Solution Ministries International will begin a four-day programme to mark its second anniversary from tomorrow. It will will be Night of Settlement on Friday by 10pm.This will be followed with a thanksgiving service on Sunday May 6 at 9am with the theme: My Season has come. T he venue is 33 Adeyemi Street (Bright Vill Centre) by Arowojobe Junction, Oshodi, Lagos.

The chief host, Prophet Daniel Okoloba, said the ceremony will attract great blessings from God.

AGOS State chapter of National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) has praised the Lagos State government for beefing up security.

The council in a statement, noted that in spite of the government effort to improve the security situation in the state, certain areas such as Mushin, IdiAraba and Itire still remain tense. The statement was jointly signed by the state co-coordinator, Alhaji Abdullai Anifowose and publicity secretary, Alhaji Moshood Abdul-Wasi.

It also urged the government to ensure that the case of a boy involved in an aborted bomb blast at Methodist Church, Ita-Elewa, Ikorodu, “is followed to a logical conclusion.”

The council implores the state government to make sure the perpetrators of the aborted bomb attack and their sponsors are brought to justice.

On the doctors’ strike, the council appeals for caution on both sides.”While there is no denying the fact that the state government has invested immensely in the health sector, there is need for both to embrace dialogue in resolving the dispute amicably in the interest of the masses”, the statement added.

L

Imo on the resourcefulness of its workforce, hence his administration was taking deliberate steps to improve on workers’ welfare.

He noted that whenever disagreements arose between employers and their employee, dialogue, rather than confrontation, should be followed to resolve the crisis.

The governor said that his administration had taken deliberate steps to improve on workers’ welfare and called on them to reciprocate the gestures.

He praised the workers for ensuring industrial harmony in the state.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of TUC in the state, Mr Chukwuma Igbokwe, lamented the high level of insecurity in the

•Chairman, Mosan Okunola Local Council Development Area, Hon. Abiodun Mafe presenting budget proposal to the Leader of the House, Hon Rachael Olusoga

Deputy Governor challenges youths on self-employment

R

IVERS State Deputy Governor, Engr.

Tele Ikuru, says Nigeria needs 12 million jobs with a call on youths to focus on self-empowerment and job creation.

Engr. Ikuru said this during a Thanksgiving Service to mark the 13th anniversary and dedication of the Grace Cathedral, mission headquarters of the Grace Covenant Ministries in Port Harcourt.

Represented by his wife, Dr Mina Ikuru, the State Deputy Governor raised concern over how to manage Nigeria’s growing youth population, regretting that according to statistics 98.5 million Nigerians are poor, stressing that “the situation calls for youths to stand up and do something.”He urged them to change their mindset and thought processes.

“You need to find something doing, get busy. I’ve come to preach empowerment. It is time young people think of how to

Rivers engage themselves profitably,” Engr. Ikuru said, drawing lessons from his personal experience as a young graduate who kept my certificates inside my box and went to Iloabuchi waterside to carry timber,” noting that “the good thing about it is that I was getting money into my pocket”.

He urged Christians to imbibe the attitude of praising God if they are to continue enjoying divine blessings, commending the leadership and members of the Grace Covenant Ministries for “the successful completion of a beautiful edifice where God can be praised continuously”.

Speaking, the Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, Senator George Sekibo, thanked God for the life of the presiding Bishop of the church, Rt. Rev. Winston Iwo, attributing his success in life to the efforts of the Bishop, urging the leadership and members of the church to regard the successful completion of

Firms reward customers

I

N their usual tradition of rewarding their customers, Sweet Sensation Confectionery and Coca-Cola, recently came together to reward their customers during Easter tagged: Spatter la ‘Easter with Sweet Sensation and CocaCola.

This year’s edition featured a blend of music, rib-cracking jokes performed by A-list comedians, lots of amazing free gifts, lipsmacking meals and games.

The celebration took a different twist as it featured a partnership of two great brands rewarding customers with fabulous gifts. It was also an opportunity for Sweet Sensation to further showcase one of its latest introduction SPAGHETTI SHRIMPS. It would be recalled that the product was launched in February as part of its unique celebration of this year’s Valentine celebration.

It was introduced to give its numerous customers another healthy and delicious addition to its long list of menu.

•Chime country and called on the three tiers of government to fight the menace by making job creation, provision of food and free education their policy thrust.

. Simeon Onasanya (left) with the Chairman of the occassion Major General ohn W.T. Gbor (rtd), during the 9th Graduation and Award Giving ceremony of IMS Computer Training School in Lagos

the mission headquarters as a launchpad to greater success.

Earlier, in his sermon titled “The Joy of Returning to the Lord”, the guest speaker, Reverend Felix Omobude, said God is interested in the return of his children with a new song, asserting that no matter how far or how underestimated an individual is, God can transform and give such a person a song upon return to Him.

Group elects exco HE Ogbomoso Pivotal Club has elected a new executive committee.

At its 2012 Annual General Meeting held recently at the Ogbomoso Recreation Club, Oyo State, Otunba Layi Adeyemi was elected President, with Dejo Ajani as Vice President.

Also elected were Alhaji Remi Adeseun, Secretary; Engr. Ayo Labade, Assistant Secretary and Prince Kelly Aremu, as the Treasurer.

Other officers are Alhaji Alimi Sarumi, Financial Secretary; Tunji Olaniyi, Social Secretary; Dr Akin Onigbinde, Legal Adviser; Akin Oladeinde, Internal Auditor while Prince Abidoye Ayoola, Ezekiel Onilude and Alhaji Kilani Sanni were elected as Ex-Officio members.

To demonstrate its commitment to the education of brilliant but indigent students, the club presented scholarships to some students of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso.

At the end of the meeting, members were led by the chairman of the club’s education committee, Prince Owolabi Amole, to the site of the club’s Information Technology Academy. The academy, according to Adeseun, the new secretary, is one of several developmental initiatives of the club aimed at equipping the youth with the skills required to succeed in today’s world.“We are committed to providing the youth with an improved future with which they can get the best out of life,” he stated.

The meeting recorded a large turnout of members from different parts of the country

T

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

19

EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Fire Diezani now!

•The minister and others who presided over the fuel subsidy scam have no moral right to retain their posts

T

HERE are two ways to interpret the reluctance of the Federal Government to act decisively by firing officials of the petroleum ministry at the centre of the subsidy scam. The first is that the Jonathan administration has become so impervious to legitimate demands by citizens that government appointees – like Caesar’s wife – be seen to be above board at all times, as to be contemptuous of their opinions. The other is that the affected officials are indispensable to the administration to such an extent that it would risk the odium of Nigerians to keep them on board. Either way, we consider their retention in government as setting a new low in public service.

We refer here to the continuing retention of Diezani Alison-Madueke,

‘At the risk of sounding too obvious, what is needed now in the petroleum ministry is a thorough cleansing of its Augean stable. We do not see how officials generally seen in the eyes of Nigerians as tainted by scandal could be part of the cleansing process.

It does not make sense. For the umpteenth time, we say it is time to let Diezani AlisonMadueke and others go!’

the Minister of Petroleum, in the federal cabinet. The same applies to the executives of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, the Petroleum Product Prices Regulatory Authority (PPPRA) as indeed all other high officials of the Jonathan administration that had anything remotely to do with the fuel subsidy scam.

Agreed, none of the officials have been convicted of any crime(s), yet. They needn’t be. To start with, it is the job of the anti-graft agencies to sift through the probe document by the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Petroleum Subsidy to determine those to be brought to trial. However, knowing how tardy the judicial system is, and given the half-hearted commitment by the anti-graft bodies to the fight against corruption, we would not even go as far as raising any expectations that the government would go after those indicted by the lower parliament – or even act on the House report at all.

It is however a different call for minister Alison-Madueke and her officials in the petroleum ministry. We must emphasise that one of the burdens necessarily imposed on those privileged to serve in the public service is recognising when to quit. That a high official whose ministry came under intense searchlight would insist on being at the driver’s seat – and well after the earth-shaking revelations of fraud were established – and would still choose to carry on in office as if nothing happened has become a new index in measuring the parting of ways between our officials and shame.

We are saying here that the minister and her top officials ought to have handed in their letters of resignation long ago. Their hyper-activism in the wake of the House probe impresses no one, least of all, Nigerians who have now seen the hollow posturing of the administration for what it is – a mere smokescreen. The scandal brought untold embarrassment on the nation as consequence of their failure of oversight. Added to the moral lapse in failing to exercise the voluntary option of throwing in the towel is their continuing occupation of cosy offices.

The President should take the drastic option of firing Alison-Madueke and co – now.

We say this because nothing makes her and the other officials indispensable. Much as we recognise the prerogative of the President to hire and fire his appointees, the matter goes to the heart of the question whether the President can afford to keep her and the other officials under whose watch the grave economic crimes were committed in office, without courting the odium of Nigerians for himself and his government.

At the risk of sounding too obvious, what is needed now in the petroleum ministry is a thorough cleansing of its Augean stable. We do not see how officials generally seen in the eyes of Nigerians as tainted by scandal could be part of the cleansing process. It does not make sense. For the umpteenth time, we say it is time to let Diezani Alison-Madueke and others go!

Just an accident?

• The Edo governor’s escape, and later his commissioner, from death typifies politics as a desperate act

I

T was gruesome news. Returning from a political rally in Afuze, headquarters of Owan East Local Government Area (LGA), last Saturday, the convoy of the Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, was involved in a fatal accident along the Warrake-Auchi Road. Of course, this is not the first time that a governor’s convoy would be involved in a road crash. But there was something eerie about this accident.

A tipper lorry reportedly veered off its track and aimed directly at the governor’s staff car, which it missed narrowly. Not so lucky, however, were occupants of the vehicles conveying the security detail and the Government House Press Crew. While many security men were injured, three journalists – Mr George Okosun and Mr. Olatunji Jacobs of Independent Television (ITV) as well as Mr. Fidelis Okhani of African Independent Television (AIT) - lost their lives.

Was there more to this ‘accident’ than meets the eye? The Edo State Government says it has cause to believe so. Mr. Louis Odion, the commissioner for information and orientation, has pointedly described the incident as an ‘assassination attempt’ by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. For one, the state government cited the ‘suspicious’ speed with which the state PDP issued ‘special announcements’ on radio and television condoling Oshiomhole and the other victims, even while the governor and Good Samaritans were still busy at the scene

trying to retrieve the wounded and dead.

Again, the state government’s suspicions were understandably reinforced by the reported attack on the private residence of Mr. Odion by gunmen at about 3 a.m., the following day. Fortuitously, Mr. Odion had a late official engagement that necessitated his sleeping in a colleague’s house that night. It is also pertinent to take judicious note of the fact that on February 19, Mr. Odion had raised an alarm of an alleged threat to his life by elements of the opposition.

On its part, the PDP in Edo State has affirmed its innocence and accused the state government of ‘playing politics with death’. The onus rests on the security agencies to thoroughly investigate this incident as several individuals and groups have canvassed, with a view to unearthing the truth and taking requisite action where necessary.

Should it be so easy for an oncoming vehicle to simply lose control and aim straight at a governor’s convoy? How safe is the mode of movement of executive convoys on our roads? Are there additional safety measures that can be taken to protect the lives of members of these convoys as well as the public? These are some of the relevant issues that must be addressed by the pertinent authorities. We must not also forget that, aside from high-profile individuals, scores of innocent citizens are daily exposed to such dangers on our roads across the coun-

try.

This tragedy as well as the attendant allegations and counterallegations portend a dangerous degeneration in the political climate in Edo State in the countdown to the July gubernatorial election. It is up to the security agencies to probe the incident seriously, with a view to showing that no form of political violence will be tolerated. If it is treated as another casual, routine occurrence, tension will escalate and the tendency for political actors to resort to self-help will increase with negative implications for free, fair and credible elections.

We join Nigerians in condoling with the families of those who lost their lives or were injured in this gory incident. May God comfort and strengthen them in this difficult hour.

‘This tragedy as well as the attendant allegations and counter-allegations portend a dangerous degeneration in the political climate in Edo State in the countdown to the July gubernatorial election. It is up to the security agencies to probe the incident seriously, with a view to showing that no form of political violence will be tolerated’

A new Lawyer’s duty

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EW York State’s chief judge, Jonathan Lippman, announced on Tuesday a change in the state’s bar admission process that is both simple and potentially revolutionary. Beginning next year, the 10,000 or so prospective lawyers who pass the New York State Bar exam every year will be required to perform 50 hours of pro bono legal services before they are approved to practice law.

The requirement, which has been approved by the state’s four appellate divisions, will ensure that all lawyers starting out have some degree of realworld experience. It is also a practical way to foster a stronger culture of public service in the legal profession, while providing more assistance for the many hundreds of thousands of people without lawyers in the state’s civil court system. Like many states, New York allows law students to perform legal work under the supervision of faculty members or legal services groups.

In these hard financial times, the need for legal help among low-income New Yorkers has become a crisis.

According to court data, 99 percent of tenants are unrepresented in eviction cases in New York City, 97 percent of parents are unrepresented in child support matters and more than 60 percent of homeowners in foreclosure cases attend the state’s mandated settlement conferences without the benefit of legal counsel. Requiring would-be lawyers to do 50 hours of pro bono service is a modest requirement.

While many law schools have courtroom-based clinical programs, the new rule would add a few hundred thousand more hours of legal help for those in need. If other states follow New York’s lead, the impact nationally could be substantial.

This initiative, however, is no substitute for more federal and state support of legal aid for the poor, or for other moves, like expanding law school loan-forgiveness programs to help graduates who work in legal services offices. Still, requiring new lawyers to demonstrate their commitment to the profession’s ideals of service is a worthy step in the right direction.

– New York Times

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

S

IR: Recent reports about the comment made by the National Security Adviser, General Owoye Azazi (retd) at the conference of South-south states and the attendant reports and comments by Nigeria’s news media prompted me to write this.

Most of the print and electronic media in Nigeria reported the NSA as stating that the Peoples Democratic Party “zoning” policy should be partly blamed for the increasing destruction visited on Nigerians by the “Boko Haram” sect.

It is now a week after the conference and no news media in Nigeria has been able to print or post online the full text of the speech delivered by the NSA. Rather, the media has participated in an orgy of condemnation of the NSA, all without any balance.

Some of the comments printed by the news media excoriating General Azazi range from the ludicrous to the insane. No serious attempts were made to evaluate or analyze the comment made by the General. Not even an ounce of efforts were made to publish the entire text or audio online or in print.Most of the reports seem to conclude that the primary duty of the National Security Adviser is to the President and his party, not the entire the country. Of course most of these media couched the response in form of reports of other people’s comment such as the one attributed to Olisah Metuh, the national publicity secretary of PDP. Some reports seem to have gone out of their way to solicit

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Let’s have the transcript of Azazi’s speech acidic comments of politicians from the northern part of the country.

My query to the Nigerian media is this: If Nigerian politicians appear on your news broadcast or editorial interviews to make comments that were outright lies or such that will endanger the safety of the country, won’t you take a moment to halt the conversation and correct them? At least, I’d like to think so. Don’t you think it is apposite to direct such

politicians to some indisputable fact stated in the speech? For instance, in the speech the General states “today, if you arrest all the leaders of Boko Haram, I don’t think the problem would end, because the situation that created the sect has not been tackled e.g. poverty and the desire (of some people) to rule Nigeria. These issues cannot be isolated unless they are handled comprehensively”. One could of course, conclude that most journalists in Nigeria are too lazy

to challenge insinuations, conjectures and suppositions with facts.

At a time when we are trying to make difficult security decisions against a backdrop of homegrown terrorist and complex corruption problems, it is incumbent on the news media to play a role in helping Nigerians obtain the best, most accurate information available.

Without it, the odds that we will not make the right decisions at this perilous time are greatly increased.

Subsidy money not the cause of our woes

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IR: Since the report of the House Ad hoc Committee on Fuel Subsidy Management led by Hon. Farouk Lawan has been presented at the floor of the House of Representatives, Nigerians, Labour unions and civil society groups have expressed different viewson the revelations from the probe.

In the past, we had had series of probes by EFCC and ICPC and which indicted some Nigerians.

In some cases, funds looted by those indicted were allegedly recovered and paid into the

nation’s coffers. But do we have anything to show for it? All the monies deposited in the foreign accounts of the late General Sanni Abacha and which were later returned to the country, where are they? On what projects have they been expended?

The masses should stop deceiving themselves. We have received more than this N1.07t in the past from foreign agencies in form of loans, grants and aids for agriculture, education, health, and infrastructural developments, still our condition has not improved.

In 2005, the Paris Club granted

us debt relief which many people believed will liberate us from the shackles of backwardness. Up till this moment, nothing has improved.

I have nothing against the trial of those found culpable in fuel subsidy mess; what I am saying is that nothing significant will happen if the money was eventually recovered from this cabal because another cabal is waiting in the villa to take their turn. Why rob Peter to hand over to Paul?

These miscreants are so smart to the extent that no amount of money

How America can help Nigeria

S

IR: I have no doubt America knows what is happening in Nigeria much more than I do.

I am particularly happy by the country’s recognition that the Boko Haram issue cannot be “solved exclusively by treating it as a security issue. It needs a holistic solution.”

I am happy hearing that the American President, Barack Obama, is planning to help Nigeria stabilize her democracy.

Obama is probably aware that

It is always easier to pile on and precipitate the removal of an honest security chief for political gain. Vultures are already waiting in the wings; those who want the job will stand at nothing to use their friends in the media to push the president to remove the NSA. Nigeria will be the worst for it at the end. But being complicit in the twisting of Nigerian political history isn’t just lazy, it’s dangerous. It has consequences that will affect the health, wealth and lives of all Nigerians.

Please, the print the full report of the General’s speech and ask Nigerian politicians who are drawing umbrage from the comments what they think is the root cause of the intractable security problem we are facing.

• Francis Adewale Spokane, WA USA

crisis is already brewing as 2015 approaches. The Arewa and the Igbo are already flexing muscle over who produces the next President.

Do you see why the country should resolve the issue of rotational presidency amicably and constitutionally among the six geo-political zones?

The second area of serious concern in Nigeria is the electoral system. The current constitution imposed on the country by the

military leaders who purportedly handed-over power in 1999, empowers the partisan President (and as a corollary his political party) to choose the electoral umpires. This factor cannot be sincerely dissociated from the electoral apathy that is plaguing Nigeria.

The Electoral Reform Committee, set up in 2007 by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, headed by Justice Muhammed Uwais, recommended that the electoral umpires be chosen

by the National Judicial Council but the presidency and the legislature both controlled by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been resisting whatever would guarantee order and transparent justice.

America should help us address the aforementioned issues, because there cannot be peace or democracy without justice.

• Pius Oyeniran Abioje, Ph. D, University of Ilorin.

recovered from them will make them poor. Very soon we will start to see them vying for one political post or the other. They are the ones that get nominated for National honours.

I commend the effort of subsidy probe team led by Hon. Farouk Lawan for undertaking the national assignment as expected of them. Theirs is a testimony that we still have public office holders who will not sacrifice the country’s interest for personal enrichment.

The truth is that we lack proper value orientation as a nation. The family, religious institutions, schools and the government have failed woefully. We emphasize more on things we can see currently; we lack the vision to see the future implications of our today’s decisions. We need to change our mentality about certain issues if we want to move forward, it is highly irrational to continue to do the same thing and expect a different result. It is time to change the “rhythm of the game” business as usual. WLet us all join hands in praying for this country so that almighty God will give us right and God-fearing people at the helm of affairs of this country.

• Ayandokun Adegboyega Lagos

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012 16

21

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Reality Bites T

Because we have ideals (1)

Olatunji Ololade

HOSE who should make a difference will read this and understand me. “They can’t and they do not read,” some are probably interjecting this minute.

“The Nigerian youth is not yet capable of such reasoning,” they claim. I do not know whether to take such arrant cynicism as the truth.

I write for the youth; much as I would love to think that I write for everyone, my toilsome and often tiresome endeavor resonates in rousing cadences for the youth; I presume. By youth, I make no references to age; for a man could be 18 and be wrought of defeatist reasoning. But he could be 70 and yet evince passion and unconquerable

‘Looking back now, you and I will find little to cheer about, about our “Occupy Nigeria” movement.

The best we could do is to glance back at it lustfully as shipwrecked mariners might at the sternest rock, even as they are hurled to be submerged beneath the fury of the surliest sea waves’

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vim worthy of the 18-year-old.

Crabbed age and inclination to dither; a graying yet towering sense of pride forever beclouds the mind of the one to whom every fresh vestige of hope evokes inklings of an infernal eclipse.

Shame that we can look the sun in the face but cannot make our hay under the heat of its smoldering rays. Shame that everybody loves to seek a hero but nobody wants to be a hero. And so we give to principled spinelessness even as we perpetuate a base and savage insensitivity in pursuit of everything and anything gilded with riches and shorn of humanity.

Murderous hate disintegrates our fatherland; humaneness and love depreciate for the love of heartwarming riches. Honesty dies a gruesome death and diligence gives to the lure of gratifying deceit; and within the haze of such grotesqueness and vile, we seek a true hero; a Nigerian hero.

How can we dream of having a hero without the crutch of a virtuous and enabling world? We do not need a hero but a nation fit for heroes. And having created such nation, we would be in no dire need of sacrificial idealists and pragmatists we love to call heroes. Let everybody be a hero. Falcons hunt for their young; crickets make their own music, and the untended herd determines the course of its own pasture; let you and I become our own heroes.

Arrogance and contemptible naïveté are what makes the cow-

HE verdict is unanimous. Our beloved Auntie Enitan required only two words as her epitaph: “Classy Lady.” We may need to add that she was most unassuming – regardless of her impeccable pedigree as the daughter of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist, the late Herbert Macaulay who was a descendant of late Bishop Ajayi Crowther in addition to being an engineer as well as a surveyor.

On the maternal side, Auntie Enitan’s forebears were equally illustrious.

Ironically she showed no interest whatever in demanding the homage and obeisance from politicians to which she was rightly entitled on account of the political vision and sagacity of her redoubtable father.

Neither did she ever exploit her aristocratic background to extort privilege or patronage from the government. Indeed she was a rare gem.

Auntie was part of a triumvirate of which the others were my late mother and Mrs. Agusto (“Mama Muba”). They started off as friends but the bonding rapidly escalated to sisterhood. They belonged to an age when ladies were more disposed towards celebrating the virtues, valour, and achievements of their men folk rather than advertising their deficiencies. They chose to shut their eyes and close their ears. No easy task!

In the case of Auntie Enitan, she was a stunning beauty who was swept off her feet by her husband – the late Chief Adebayo Doherty. She would only coyly admit that it was not his success as a lawyer and businessman that did the trick. It was his credential as an old boy of King’s College!

All the other contenders from St. Gregory’s College; Igbobi College; Baptist Academy, Methodist Boy’s High School; and C.M.S. Grammar School were eliminated in the first round of the heats!

At Kirsten Hall in Tinubu area of Lagos, her father dotted on her, in a political environment that would have prepared her for life as a formidable warrior in Nigeria’s political cauldron and social turmoil.

Instead she opted to shun the limelight.

ardly and our insolent ruling class contend that we are incapable of that. Cowardliness and incurable servility goads us to uphold the ‘truth’ as they love to see it. Who would have thought that at this time and age, we would be caught in the tangled thickets of greed, selfcenteredness and deceit?

Today’s youth like their forbears are given to bigotry…we perpetuate the worst kinds of ethnic chauvinism and idolatry you could ever think of. Driven by greed and inordinate lust for the good life, we seek the shortest possible bypass to riches. “Money talks, bullshit works,” becomes our hallowed creed; it leads us to revere criminals as our best of men even as it informs our tireless quest to circumvent the universe’s definite but slow, steady order.

We are at war with ourselves and the future of our dreams. Thus in spite of our fervor and tiresome clamour for change and everlasting progress, our enthusiasm is borne of the perverse, and our advancements; of exasperating duplicity.

Never had an entire generation being as treacherous and full of illwill against itself as we have now.

Goaded by platitudes and ideals that do very little to improve our circumstances and worth, we engage in a maddening march for the future of our dreams even as we become the cogs in our wheels of change, every time we get to the crossroads where impotent will emasculates our zeal.

There is something wrong with the Nigerian ideal; makes it difficult to chart our way out of the bedlam of the past, turmoil of the present and barrenness of the future. Let no man, as Schiller says, too querulously “measure by a scale of perfection the meagre product of reality” in this poor world of

ours. Without doubt, Schiller envisioned the futility of such lofty expectations we have of ourselves even as we battle our inner demons.

Any individual seeking such perfection shall in no way be deemed a wise man; he shall be deemed sickly, unrealistic and innately foolish.

And yet, on the other hand, it is worth remembering that ideals do exist. Even the villainy perpetrated by our venal and dishonourable ruling class is perpetuated on the strength of ideals they hold very dear to their hearts. To every individual, his heartfelt ideal. There is no man without an ideal, however dormant or active it is, something drives an average man towards his choice of conduct as part of a human society.

Truly, without the rampart of ideals, it would be impossible for our pioneer statesmen to fight for and attain the independence we so carelessly diminish today. Spurred by heartfelt ideals, officers of the Nigerian army staged the first military coup and subsequent ones. Propelled by ideals, the country plunged into a bloody civil war at the end of which over two million civilians and soldiers lay dead from starvation and “enemy” bullets.

It was on the steep planes of ideals that the country was continually thrust through sporadic military and civilian experiments until 1993 when Nigeria’s last military head of state handed over to a civilian administration.

Spurred by earnest ideals, the executive and legislative arms of government have led Nigeria from one sorry pass to another. Enter President Goodluck Jonathan, the man whom many amongst us deemed the “ideal” man for the job. Many thought because his name is

Tribute to late Enitan Adebayo-Doherty

By Bashorun J.K Randle She preferred rectitude and solitude out of choice. To the best of my knowledge, she was totally apolitical. She chose to concentrate her energies on bearing the pain of the abrupt demise of both her famous father and her illustrious husband.

With tremendous dignity, elegance, panache, humility, and a great deal of patience, she survived over three decades of widowhood but never shirked her responsibilities to her children – Jide, Funmilayo, and Bimbo who are the fortunate beneficiaries of the huge legacy of goodwill which their beloved Mum has bequeathed.

From her vantage position and elevated trajectory on the top floor of her residence at 72 Tokunbo Street, Lagos, Auntie Enitan for almost 50 years has a ring – side seat as Lagos (and the rest of Nigeria) fragmented into chaos and crumbled into anarchy in a conundrum where women of easy virtues are locked into an epic battle with men of dubious character. She was born into great wealth, hence she never needed to worship money. Beyond that, regardless of her being a devout Christian she had no qualms about marrying off her two beautiful daughters to muslims – Segun Jawando and Bisade Biobaku.

Her judgment has proved to be flawless.

Similarly for Lagos, she had a soft spot, but never asked for anything in return.

Let us acknowledge that till the last moment she yearned with nostalgia for Lagos (and Nigeria) that was at peace with itself not a city or nation which keeps churning out in large numbers – an underclass of the jobless and the disillusioned who have resolved that if they are not good enough for our country

they too have decided that our nation is not good enough for them. They have waited for the exit of Auntie Enitan before unleashing their revenge – with drugs, crime, guns, and whatever weapons of destruction they can get hold of. Alarming!

Quietly and patiently our beloved Mrs. Enitan Adebayo Doherty was for many decades their restraining influence, guardian Angel, and symbol of hope and salvation. Perhaps it is worth refreshing our memory that Tokunbo Street, Lagos was once the domain of numerous distinguished Lagos families – Oyekan; Lewis; Domingo; Dabiri; Bajulaiye; Abina; Salvador; Tresize; Aka-Bashorun; Braithwaite; Ajadi Faramobi; Sebanjo; Abisogun; Gbajabiamila; etc. Perhaps we should add that the late Sir OdimegwuOjukwu lived on Oshodi Street off Tokunbo Street, while late Alhaji Okoya (father of Chief (Dr) Razak Okoya lived on Cow Lane, off Tokunbo Street. Also at number 53 late Chief (Dr) Abiola Akerele ran his clinic and maternity centre for several decades. Hence, Tokunbo Street could lay a legitimate claim to being the epicentre of Lagos. I admit to being not entirely impartial. I was born on that street!

That was 68 years ago. I have been incredibly lucky.

All Auntie Enitan ever expected of beneficiaries of her father’s patriotism and legendary courage was a commitment to respect to elders, social justice and fairness.

We have every reason to believe that the lesson she learnt at the feet of her father would have been whispered to her children and grand children – we cannot become a great nation without producing great patriots and great nationalists.

“Goodluck,” he must have good luck which would automatically rub off on us immediately he attains power. Goodluck Jonathan is in power and what manner of good luck he brings has been felt by all.

Like you and me, Mr. President is a man of ideals; thus it was from the moral ground of ideals that he budgeted about N1billion for presidential meals, removed fuel subsidy and allows a very “interesting” security situation on his watch.

Being a man of ideals, Mr. President has surrounded himself with great men and women of ideals thus we have within his team, Reuben Abati, a very brilliant journalist who from a moral ground of ideals chose to abandon his calling to serve Mr. Presiden;, my bad, Nigeria. Lest I forget Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi et al; men and women of proven worth and intelligence who are currently ruling Nigeria because it is not yet idyllically expedient to serve Nigeria.

And then we have you and me; human integers continually forced by the most expedient of ideals to endure such ruling class as we have now. We do know what to make of our situation. Now that the novelty has worn off, shall we begin to hail our Occupy Nigeria movement as the next best thing that would have triggered our oft hackneyed revolution. Looking back now, you and I will find little to cheer about, about our “Occupy Nigeria” movement. The best we could do is to glance back at it lustfully as shipwrecked mariners might at the sternest rock, even as they are hurled to be submerged beneath the fury of the surliest sea waves.

• To be continued…

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

It is worth adding as a footnote that although she had the resources to move to the calmer shores of exclusive Victoria Island; Banana Island; Ikoyi or Lekki Peninsular, she remained firmly at Tokunbo Street, perhaps in the forlorn hope that the social tapestry which had been brusquely torn and the micro-economy that had been similarly ravaged by mendacity and plunder could be reversed.

Or may be she just got used to the hustle and bustle knowing that it carried with it the alarm of further degradation. Hence, the option to exit entirely now. Perhaps it is the gloomy realization that the decay is irreversible that delivered the knock-out punch. She was not the type to make a fuss. Quietly, she slipped away to join her two “sisters” who preceded her to the grave.

In life, her reticence and discretion spoke volumes.

Nevertheless, she may have been tempted to ask, like the character from Harold Pinter’s play: “Who are these people?

Where have they come from? And are we to take them seriously?”

May her gently soul rest in perfect peace.

• Randle, FCA, OFR writes from Lagos

‘Auntie was part of a triumvirate of which the others were my late mother and Mrs. Agusto (“Mama Muba”). They started off as friends but the bonding rapidly escalated to sisterhood. They belonged to an age when ladies were more disposed towards celebrating the virtues, valour, and achievements of their men folk rather than advertising their deficiencies’

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION ‘A doctor must work eighteen hours a day and seven days a week. If you cannot conform yourself to this, get out of the profession.’

——Martin H. Fischer (1879 - 1962) German-born U.S. physician/author.

I

S it right for doctors to be playing activism with human lives? I doubt if anybody in his right senses will answer this question in the affirmative. However, what doctors in public hospitals in Lagos state under the auspices of Medical Guild have been doing with their on-going indefinite strike is tantamount to reducing the worth of human lives to the abysmal level of unreasonable activism.

Bare a month ago, I did a piece titled: ‘Stethoscope without humanity’ in which the doctors in the ‘centre of excellence’ were admonished not to turn themselves into an inhuman, lawless bunch that are out to hold the government to ransom at the expense of human being that need their medical skills to sustain their wellbeing. That was at a time when the doctors were on a three-day warning strike. Now, a full scale strike has been on for weeks and the doctors seem bereft of empathy for mostly the suffering masses in the state and outside it that patronise public hospitals. A close monitoring of the situation has shown that the doctors are as recalcitrant as they are adamant in their bid to continue the strike, insisting that their terms must be fully met without been persuaded by position of government.

Before some people misconstrue my stand to mean a blanket support for the Lagos state government against the doctors, it is pertinent for me to state that it is far from that. If anything, I am an avowed advocate of a better perquisites for professionals especially doctors, lawyers, engineers and pharmacists that toil more than other educated men and women before acquiring their certificates.

This position is further amplified in a country where elected and appointed political office holders (that are sadly in most cases not qualified to be described as lettered), callously fix and pay to themselves outrageous allowances and salaries that show crass contempt for the debilitating plight of the people. While this officially immoral rape on public till remains detestable and condemnable, the fact must however be reinforced that doctors must not because of this consider themselves to be more superior or think themselves as a special breed to other revered

I

I never agreed with Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) when earlier in the life of the Boko Haram crisis he had suggested that Christians should fight back. I was filled with revulsion knowing that vengeance was unChristianlike. But after last Sunday’s mayhem at the Bayero University, Kano, (BUK), enough, we must say, is really enough. Brethren in the North must now begin to think seriously how to begin to look this terror in the eye and repel it.

Christians must now rise to defend their faith, to defend their right to worship and to seek the unction of the almighty God to repel and conquer a rampaging evil. If the antidote to this mindless slaughtering, if the deterrence is to enact a policy of one Bible one bazooka, so be it. As it is, churches in the North and even some parts of the South are now deserted on Sundays. The day has come in Nigerian when Christians are afraid to go worship God. According to reports, a section of the worshippers in the BUK massacre were under a tree apparently for fear of being bombed in a proper church setting. Yet they were found out and shut at as if they were wild animals.

One account says that the attack went on for about 45 minutes. Forty-five minutes of shooting and lobbing of grenades at unarmed and harmless people whose only offence was that they were in a benign assembly worshipping God on a Sunday morning; on a university campus. Forty-five minutes of chaos, of shooting, of killing and maiming— where was the university authority all through 45 minutes; where was the security agencies; how come the assailants disappeared into thin air without a trace? The entire campus must have gone on vacation when defenseless Christian students and their lecturers where slaughtered like bush meat on a Sunday morning.

The assailants strolled away after the killing spree because we have a blundering President who is aided by a bumble-bee of a National Security Adviser,(NSA). When Alqaeda hit the World Trade Center twin towers and the Pentagon in the United States on September 9, 2001, we all still remember

Doctors, playing activism with human lives

• Fashola professionals that equally contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the states and that of the nation as a whole.

There is no doubt that doctors’ services are in high demand overseas. This is because they are so crucial an element in the clinical chain but that should not be a ground to make them think that without them, heavens will fall.

Nigerian doctors are free to travel to such countries in search of better work environment without stampeding the system here like the doctors employed by Lagos are currently doing.

From the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, Ikeja, to General Hospitals in Gbagada, Isolo, Orile Agege and Ikorodu among others, patients are still left unattended to. The doctors in over 20 general

hospitals and a teaching hospital in Lagos are breaching the Hippocratic Oath they took during their induction into the medical profession by engaging in endless strikes that give no consideration to peoples precarious health situations. In the on-going strike leading to paralysis of medical and clinical services, several cases of deaths have been reported. The medical emergency ward and the consulting rooms have either been shut or almost inactive. Unfortunately, the fate of patients in the state is hanging in the balance until the resolution of these avoidable pecuniary doctors’ demands is achieved.

The doctors should forthwith call off the strike because ab initio, the legal requirement as to period of notice of 15 days stipulated in the Trade Union Act was not served on the government before going on the strike. Were the doctors to go to court today, it is almost impossible for them to sustain an action. Then what manner of doctors are these that have no respect for the rule of law and the due process.

Doctors anywhere would be infracting on medical ethics when they play politics with human lives just to further their personal ambitions. The leader of the Medical Guild at a time when unruly medical activism in Lagos state commenced, one Dr Olaifa, is now alleged to be a honourable member of the House of Representatives from Oyo state under the platform of the ruling People’s Democratic Party(PDP).

After fomenting medical trouble believed

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

Your Bible and your bazooka please clearly how the then President George Bush reacted. He told the bastards that he would chase them to the end of the earth: over the hills, inside the caves through the deserts; he told them that he would find them and he would wipe them out or bring them to justice, whichever was applicable. Though I have not quoted President Bush verbatim, that in essence, was his message and it still rings loud in the heads of all who heard him them.

Where is Osama Bin Laden today? He was eventually captured, ladened, and fed to the fishes of the ocean. Al-qaeda, the evil group the deranged Saudi prince unleashed upon the world has been kept almost under complete control by America.

Did anyone ever hear our President talk tough not to talk of acting tough since 2009 that this scourge came upon us? Even as these miscreants and their sponsors are about taking control of the country from him yet he can’t as much as raise his voice. How can he deign to do anything with a security adviser like Owoye Azazi? Hear Azazi tell us a few days that the relentless slaughtering of innocent Nigerians in the last two years has been the handiwork of the ruling PDP. Did anyone ever hear a stupider remark? After two years supposedly at the top of fighting this Boko nonsense, is this all he can tell us.

Of what comfort is his revelation to Nigerians?

How does this assuage the pains of numerous

widows, widowers and orphans of the Boko Haram onslaught? Who is stopping him from arresting and prosecuting the so called refuseniks sponsoring this mayhem which he alluded to? Who is stopping him from chasing the miscreants terrorizing peaceloving Nigerians deep into the Sahara desert where they will never be able to find their way back here?

From Madalla to ECWA, to COCIN, Assemblies, Deeper Life… church leaders are being beheaded or set ablaze at will and the congregation of God is being annihilated.

Since Azazi, the PDP pundit and his boss have proved incapable of defending innocent people, the line has to be drawn somewhere and the people will have to defend themselves. There is no man who cannot acquire a gun if he needs it badly. He who cannot put together an explosive can wreak a lot of havoc with ordinary fireworks if put to deft uses. Yes, every man may have to carry a bazooka along with his Bible and you know what that means? The war has started. Maybe that is what the enemies of the Jonathan administration have been angling for but there is always something drastic he can do NOW to forestall it? A word is enough for the wise.

But let that day not come when we shall choose to live as cowards instead of dying like brave hearts.

to have been instigated by the PDP, and having garnered enough public visibility, he abandoned the ship of the Guild in Lagos to go and realise his pre-conceived personal ambition. At that period in question also, a deputy to the candidate of the PDP candidate in Lagos during the 2011 governorship election was also a member of the Guild that started this insatiable demand for money by publicly employed doctors in Lagos. Who knows what political ambition Dr Olumuyiwa Odubote, the current chairman of the Medical Guild is nursing to achieve just like others before him in that stable.

This strike is taking heavy tool on public hospitals and without prejudice, it is the doctors that one would humbly call upon to return to their duty posts. It is trite that hardly can we get a situation where all demands of employees would be met by employers. It should be known that employer/employee negotiation is give and take. It is also wrong for the Guild to also erroneously believe that it can compel the government to pay House Officers teaching allowance? What exactly are there for these medical neophytes to teach their seniors under whom they are still learning? And the most pertinent question to ask at this juncture is: Has the Lagos government met over 90 per cent of the Medical Guild’s requests? If yes, then the doctors if they still love their jobs should return to their duty posts if only to show gratitude to a state government that harbours 70 per cent of the entire doctors in the country.

It is against medical ethics, against morality and professional rationality for doctors under whatever guise to abandon patients they are paid to cure of afflicting ailments while they clandestinely engage in illegal private practice in the process. Nobody should blame Babatunde Fashola, Lagos state governor if he sacks these irritant doctors and replace them with thousands of qualified expectant others languishing in the unemployment market of Nigeria. The time to act officially is now.

‘This strike is taking heavy tool on public hospitals and without prejudice, it is the doctors that one would humbly call upon to return to their duty posts’ LAST MUGS: scalding expresso coffees generously served 1.Akintola Williams (AW)again?: Is Akintola Williams and Company an accounting firm or a book cooking company.

Look back a while; any company that was found embroiled in fraudulent practices, AW seemed to have been in the thick of it, cooking the books. Remember the Cadbury calamity, Nigeria Airways, many failed banks and now the fuel subsidy scam. Let AW embrace the sword like a certain Arthur Andersen, because it has become a model for fraudulent auditing.

2.Gov Amaechi’s sweetheart Bill?: is Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi frantically pushing a law through the Rivers State House of Assembly that will make him even more comfortable out of office? I want to wager that it is not true but I will be damned. A bill signed into law can never be a secret document. Well let’s adjourn this matter for now with a promise that if such a bill ever comes to life, it will be reviewed on this page some day, God willing.

3.Haba Justice Idowu Awokulehin of the Ibori no-case fame! how did he ever find his voice? I thought his voice would have disappeared into his stomach and he would go about in hoods if he still happens to be around this shores. Where did milord get the effrontery and temerity to preach to us on the difference between Nigerian and British criminal law? If it were in primitive times, we should be heaving off rocks at him now.

May be he wants us to carry placard and occupy is court before he understands how angry we are. But my last word is that Nigerians should simply boycott his court.

‘He was eventually captured, ladened, and fed to the fishes of the ocean. Alqaeda, the evil group the deranged Saudi prince unleashed upon the world has been kept almost under complete control by America’

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

25

PEOPLE THE NATION

AN EIGHT-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

At a thanksgiving service to mark his 70th birthday in Lagos, former Nigeria’s Ambassador to Germany and Emeritus Prof Akinjide Idowu Osuntokun relives his journey on earth, praising God for keeping him alive. NNEKA NWANERI reports

•The celebrator Prof Osuntokun assisted by members of his family to cut the cake

‘I never knew I’ll live up to 70’ “I

NEVER knew I would live up to 70.

It’s almost like yesterday. How time flies. My life has been full of ups and downs. As a matter of fact, more downs than ups. It’s been a long time since we celebrated this kind of thing in my nuclear family and today is an opportunity God has given me to keep the flag flying. Nine years ago, a week after the exact day of my birthday, my wife died. I always treasure her memory and I see her in my children where she appears to me,” said Professor of History Akinjide Idowu Osuntokun as he gave testimony before a large crowd of family, friends, members of the academia and wellwishers. He could not hide his joy at joining the septuagenarian club.

It was at the Chapel of Christ Our Light, University of Lagos, where a thanksgiving service was held to mark his 70th birthday.

Among those at the event were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade; former Minister of External Affairs Prof Bolaji Akinyemi; former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Convener of the Save Nigeria Group Pastor Tunde Bakare; Commissioner for Justice and former Attorney-General of Lagos Prof Yemi Osinbajo; Senator Oluremi Tinubu; former Petroleum and Education Minister Prof Jubril Aminu; former Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters and nephew of the celebrator Chief Akin Osuntokun; former Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Vice-Chancellor Prof Wale Omole; former Secretary of Health, Prince Julius AdelusiAdeluyi; royal fathers; staff and students of the Redeemers’ University (RUN).

The Holy Communion and Thanksgiving Service was inspiring as hymn after hymn was sung. From the first: To God be the Glory,

‘He proved to be an academic with a difference. During his tenure, the relationship between the two countries was excellent because of him. He was a clear choice as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council during the administrations of Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Musa Yar’Adua; and now Goodluck Jonathan era’ to the recessional: There is Sunshine in my Life Today, guests sang heartily and on top of their voices.

The church was filled.

Onlookers were mesmerised by the white Rolls Royce, belonging to Oba Sijuwade, parked at the entrance of the church.

Osuntokun was seated in the front pew with his children, sons- and daughters-inlaw and grandchild.

His children, who have a striking resemblance to him, took turns in reading the Bible to the admiration of all.

The high point of the event was the celebrator’s testimony. He did not cry as he always did at family occasions. Instead, he gave many reasons to thank God for his life.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Adejare Adeboye, prophesied that the celebrator

would live up to 90.

Thanking God for his children who have been a source of joy to him, he prayed God to bless them.

Members of the Redeemers’ University Choir rendered a special song for the celebrator they call father, friend and mentor.

Senior Pastor of Breakforth Church, Ibadan, Austin Ologbese, gave what he called a message and not a sermon. He described Osuntokun as one who has been honoured in almost every realm of life. He took his reading from the Songs of Solomon 2:10.

Guests later converged on the Multipurpose Hall for a luncheon. The venue was decorated in the colour of the day – blue and white.

A special table was set aside, where the celebrator and his friends from the academia and political world sat, wining and dining. Two

large cakes on a table were at the centre. The wife of the Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Prof Olabisi Aina, supervised the cutting of the birthday cakes. She explained that blue stands for the love surrounding him and white for purity and Godliness. In order not to embarrass Prof Osuntokun by asking everyone present to come up, she asked his family members to touch every part of his hands, saying his hands are blessed having touched many lives.

Encomiums poured in. Anyaoku, who said he entered the 70’s club nine years ahead of Osuntokun, led the train. Lauding Osuntokun as an intellectual pillar, he spoke of the celebrator’s days as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany.

“He proved to be an academic with a difference. During his tenure, the relationship between the two countries was excellent because of him. He was a clear choice as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council during the administrations of Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Musa Yar’Adua; and now Goodluck Jonathan era,” he said.

Prof Akinyemi whose relationship with the celebrator dates back to 1954 said: “This loyal Nigerian is an intellectual par excellence. This is the bond that has brought and kept us together all these years.”

He recounted how Osuntokun was unlawfully detained when the then military government thought he harboured him and Prof Wole Soyinka for NADECO meetings in Germany.

In joining the league of septuagenarians, Osuntokun said: “Seventy is the beginning of the beginning and not the end of the beginning.”

•More pictures on page 26

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

26

SOCIETY •Continued from page 25

•Oba Sijuwade

•Senator Tinubu

•Chief Anyaoku and his wife

•Prof Osinbajo

•From left: Prof Akinyemi; Prince Adelusi-Adeluyi; Prof Aminu and Prof Omole

•Prof Dipo Aina and his wife Prof, Olabisi

•Chief Tunde Aluko (left) and Prof Adele Jinadu

•Ambassador Clark Akporode (left) and Ambassador Dapo Fafowora

•Chief Osuntokun

•NIIA Director-General Prof Bola Akinterinwa and wife Fehintola

•Mrs Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu and Mr Femi Orebe

•Pastor Bakare

PHOTOS: DAVID ADEJO

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

27

SOCIETY

The Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, has got staff of office. Indigenes of the town and visitors witnessed the event. SEYI ODEWALE reports.

When a diplomat becomes king

T

HE ancient town of IlaweEkiti, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was agog on April 21. Reason was not hidden; it was the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to the 18th Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I. Family, associates and friends of the monarch converged on the Corpus Christ College playing field, Ilawe-Ekiti for the ceremony.

The arrival of many on the eve of the event and the cultural displays at the palace were signs of what to expect on the D-day. The palace’s new look also showed that the coronation would be memorable.

The well-decorated arena, had a massive marquee and canopies of various sizes.

The town’s elite did not disappoint. They came in exotic cars and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) were also on display.

Resplendent in uniform Ankara, men and women trooped to the venue in groups. And with the assemblage of different categories of chiefs, including the seven high chiefs constituting the kingmakers, everyone expected a grand event.

The Ekiti seat of government literarly moved to Ilawe-Ekiti with the Governor, Kayode Fayemi; his deputy, Mrs Funmi Olayinka and the Chief of Staff, Mr Yemi Adaramodu, who is an indigene of the town in attendance. Their presence showed how highly placed the diplomat-turned king is.

Arriving at intervals were the traditional rulers of Ekiti State and beyond. Among them were the representatives of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, led by the Aro of Ife, Chief Alex Duduyemi, who was accompanied by five other Obas from Ife. They were the Adagba of Iyanfoworogi, Oba Bolu Fatunmise; Olowaa of Elefon Oba Adetunji Adebowale; Alagbon of Agbonbiti Oba Iteade Adewuyi; Olugudu of Ogudu-Ife Oba Jimoh Ajayi and Atilade of Fasina-Ife Oba Oladoyin Ogunwusi.

There were other traditional rulers from the State Council of Obas led by their Chairman, the OwaOye of Okemesi, Oba Michael Gbadebo Adedeji. Also in attendance was the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe.

The arrival of the Alawe charged the atmosphere as the éclat that accompanied him reverberated across the large arena with everyone surging forward to catch a glimpse of him. He was decked in maroon Aso-Oke attire with the traditional Are crown neatly placed on his head.

Alighting from the black Toyota Highlander SUV, the Kabiyesi was greeted with a thunderous shout of Kabiyesi ooo, while the royal trumpeter blew kabiyesi’s cognomen as the monarch, accompanied by his wife, Olori Abimbola, made for his seat under the marquee.

As soon as Fayemi and his deputy arrived, the event took off

•Oba Alabi and Olori Abimbola flanked by Governor Fayemi (right) and his deputy, Mrs Olayinka (left) at the event

•Mr Adesina (SAN), left and Mr Falana

•Oba Adedeji (left) and Chief Akosile

•Oba Fatunmise (left) and Oba Adebowale

•Oba Adejugbe

•Chief Duduyemi

with the masters of ceremony, Yemi Ogunyemi assisted by two others, recognising the personalities in attendance. This was followed by the rendition of the National Anthem; Ekiti State Anthem and the town’s Anthem.

As side attractions were cultural displays by the state troupe the town’s masqueraders that treated guests to acrobatic displays.

Chairman of the coronation committee, Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin (rtd), in his welcome address, said the event was the first in the history of the town where a king would be chosen unanimously by kingmakers. He pointed out that the monarch was also the choice of the people.

“This is the first Oba that will be chosen unanimously by the kingmakers who is also well accepted by the people,” he said.

Olofinmoyin appreciated the efforts of the Chief of Staff in making the day a success and solicited for facilities such as a functional General Hospital for the growing

interest in any candidate vying for king or any other position in the state as selections are based on merit, due diligence and transparency.

The position of monarch, Fayemi noted, is not a tea party as it entails huge responsibilities, diligence, initiative and perseverance.

“I want to enjoin you to work harmoniously with your people to accelerate the rate of development that is already at the rapid level in this community.

I’m sure with your antecedent as a diplomat, it will not be difficult for you to bring all your people together, to be a strong and happily focused community,” he said.

The high point of the event was the presentation of certificate and the Staff of Office by the governor assisted by his deputy, Mrs Olayinka to the new monarch.

Born on August 24, 1961 at Iro quarters of the town, Oba Alabi

joined the foreign service in 1986 as a Foreign Service Officer (Third Secretary) and rose to the rank of Deputy Director in a career that spanned 25 years. He was serving as Minister and Head of the Economic Desk at the High Commission of Nigeria in Pretoria, South Africa, before he was appointed Oba in December 2011 as the 18th Alawe of Ilawe.

Other dignitaries at the event included the Special Adviser to Governor Fayemi on Chieftaincy and Cultural Affairs, Chief George Akosile and representative of the Alake of Egbaland, Aare of Egbaland, Chief Salawu.

Mr Femi Falana; Akin Abereowo; Deacon Dele Adesina (SAN); Deacon Dele Richards-Apata; Prof and Mrs Idowu Odeyemi; Prof and Mrs Ogunlade; Bishop Kayode Olounniyo; Ekiti Southwest Chairman, Hon Kolawole Genge; Hon Jide Ogunjobi; Mr Sina Awelewa; Mr Lola Afeniforo and Mrs Yemisi Adetayo also attended the colourful ceremony.

‘This is the first Oba that will be chosen unanimously by the kingmakers who is also well accepted by the people’ population of the town.

Fayemi said he was happy that choosing the Oba was rancourfree.

“I am quite happy that the expected fierce struggle for the post of the exalted throne of Alawe did not degenerate into uncontrollable controversy and bad blood,” he said, appreciating the decorum, decency and maturity exhibited by other contenders to the throne.

The governor explained that his administration had no particular

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

28

SOCIETY The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport has decorated the Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr Omar Suleiman, as a fellow. OLUWAKEMI DAUDA reports.

Book presentation

T

OMORROW, two books Uloko of Ages and Echoes of a Restive Empire written by the duo of Prof Union Edebiri and Prof Dele Layiwola will be presented to the public.

The event will hold at the Foxhole Hall, 11 Maryland Crescent, Maryland, Ikeja.

Guests expected at the occasion include Dr Rotimi Fasana; Prof Remi Raji; Chief L.E.A Aimiuwu and Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

Honour for a jolly good fellow D ESPITE being a working day, the main hall of the Lagos Airport Hotel was filled to capacity last Thursday.

The cloudy weather did not deter the guests.

They came in their numbers to honour Mr Omar Suleiman, Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, during his investiture as a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

The hall of the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja venue of the ceremony, was well decorated.

The setting of the tables and chairs in the elevated hall showed that it was the classy event.

The large number of dignitaries at the event showed that the celebrator enjoys rapport with others in the maritime and transport sectors.

The guests were led by former Managing Director, Eastern Ports, NPA, Mr Felix Ovbude who chaired the occasion; the National Executive Director, CILT, Mr Francis Ehiguese; President, CILT Prof Michael Filani; Tai Solarin University of Education former Vice Chancellor Prof Kayode Oyesiku; Executive Director, NPA Mr Etomi Setonye; Mr Waka Yakub Hamed; General Manager, Public Affairs, NPA Chief Michael Ajayi and others.

In his welcome address, Ehiguese said the conferment of the chartered fellowship on anyone speaks volume of the professional capacity and excellence of such individual.

Such a person, like Suleimen, must have contributed and still have the ability to contribute to the development of the profession and the industry.

Welcoming guests, Ovbude went down memory lane on how CILT was founded and why Suleiman was chosen for the honour. Suleiman, Ovbude said, is one of the leading maritime administrators in the country, with a good background and a sound knowledge of the industry.

Today, the chairman of the occasion said, this organisation is honouring one of its own.

“One of our own is being elevated today, by the special grace of God. The conferment of the fellowship of this institute on Omar Suleiman is anchored on the veritable of CILT to give honour to only those who deserve it in the industry.

There is no coincidence that the institute taught it necessary to make Suleiman a member of the institute because he had received over 30 selfless awards in other parts of the world,” Ovbude said.

WHAT AND WHERE?

•Chief Odigie-Oyegun

Turbaning

O •Suleiman (left) receiving his award from Prof Michael Filani

•Sheikh Ibrahim

N Sunday, the Chief Imam of Lagos Sheikh Garuba Akinola Ibrahim will turbann and present staff of office to Alhaji Nurudeen Shitta-Bey as the new Seriki Musulumi of Lagos.

The ceremony will hold at the Lagos Central Mosque, Lagos Island.

Sheikh Abdul Hafeez Abou, the Baba Adinni of Lagos, will assist the Chief Imam in carrying out the activity.

Reception follows immediately at Oluwole Open Ground, opposite Central Mosque, Lagos.

Burial

T

OMORROW, the remains of the mother of the University of Benin Vice-Chancellor, Prof Osayuki Oshodin, Mrs Lucy Ifueko Oshodin, will be laid to rest.

The funeral service holds at Central Baptist Church, Ring Road, Benin City, the interment will follow at her residence.

While the Outing and Thanksgiving hold on Sunday at the same church, the reception follows immediately at her residence.

•Mr Etomi Sotonye (left) and Mr Wanka Yakubu Hamed

•Prof Oshodin

Anniversary

O

N Sunday, the 10th Coronation anniversary of the Elewu of Ewuland, Oba Shakirudeen Kuti will start with a church service at the Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ewutuntun.

On Monday, the monarch will lead his chiefs to old people’s home while Symposium on the role of traditional ruler in a political dispensation was scheduled for Oshodi-Isolo Local Government hall on Tuesday.

•Oba Kuti

•Chief Michael Ajayi and Mrs Harirat Bello

In his key note address, the President of the institute, Prof Filani, said the honour was being given to whom it is due.

He said the international council was pleased with the choice of Suleiman for the fellowship award.

Facing Suleiman, Filani said: “We are very proud of you. We publicly acknowledge your support for this

institute. We have enjoyed a great privilege from NPA since your appointment and we hope it will continue with this fellowship award being given to you,’’ he said.

Few minutes after that remark, Suleiman was presented with a beautiful plaque.

The NPA boss thanked the organisation for the honour bestowed on him.

He promised to continue

to do his best to uplift the maritime and transport sectors.

Suleiman dedicated the award to President Goodluck Jonathan who appointed him the Managing Director of NPA about a year ago.

The event provided a platform for the induction of new members. They were Adelakun Abiodun, Lieutenant Colonel Jimoh Adekunle and Joseph Chockson.

Solemnisation

T

HE Archbishop Vinning Memorial Church Cathedral GRA, Lagos will be filled as the solemnisation of former Miss Adedunni Yewande Afun and her beau Olatokunbo Bernardino Doregos holds tomorrow.

Reception follows at the Haven Event Centre beside the church.

•Bride’s mum Mrs Adebola Afun

•Compiled by Damilola Bamidele, Aminat Adesina and Abike Adegbulehin

29 FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

Vol 3 No. 150

•Tony Agenmonmen, Marketing Manager (Lager), Nigerian Breweries Plc.; Walter Drenth, Marketing Director; Funso Ayeni, Senior Brand Manager, Legend, at the press conference on the Legend Real Deal promo.

H

OW do you reward your teeming customers, create an atmosphere of excitement and help drive a major financial policy while you are at it? Ask Nigeria’s foremost stout drink and the answer you will get is the Legend Real Deal Promo.

Indeed, it will be another season of fun and excitement as Legend Extra Stout gets set to reward its teeming consumers. The Stout drink, famed for its rich bitter taste, would be using the promotion as a unique platform for rewarding loyal consumers as well as attracting new ones.

The promotion, tagged, Legend Real Deal Promo, will see Legend Extra Stout doling out thousands of prizes to its teeming consumers. Some of the gifts up for grabs include 32 inches LCD televisions for 720 lucky winners, 750 Blackberry phones as well as 600 2.9KVA generators. Other prizes include 24,500 Tshirts, 24,500 fez caps, 200,000 recharge cards, 2.5million free Legend Extra Stout and N5,000 cash prizes for 2,100 people.

The promotion will adopt a Lucky-bottletop-offer (LBTO) with instant gift approach.

Consumer buys one bottle of Legend and gets instant reward.

However, the uniqueness in the promo is not necessarily in the prizes that are being given away. Indeed, promotions have become an integral part of the marketing process adopted by a wide variety of brands in the country. What stands the Legend Real Deal Promo out from the crowd is a unique concept that has been termed: Legend Real Reward Nites. Legend Real Reward Nights will basically be special events which will feature winners of the promo receiving their gifts in a lavish ceremony and an atmosphere of conviviality. Legend Real Reward Nites is scheduled for various locations across the

Legend of the real deal promo Legend Stout joins the cashless Nigeria train with a new promotion, which kicks off this month, writes JIMI DAVID country. In all there would be 36 of such outlets where the Legend Real Reward Nites would be held.

Speaking on the event, Funsho Ayeni, Senior Brand Manager-Legend Extra Stout, Nigerian Breweries Plc., stated that Legend Real Reward Nites was conceived as a unique way of celebrating winners. ‘We are really appreciative of the support and patronage of our teeming consumers. That was why we decided to come up with the promo. We didn’t just want the winners to come and receive

the prize. We wanted to celebrate them in a unique manner. That was why we came up with the Legend Real Reward Nites,” Ayeni said.

He added that all the outlets where Legend Real Reward Nites would reflect the unique Legend ambience. “We are going to make sure that the outlets reflect the unique Legend ambience. That is why we are a different brand,” he stated.

If Ayeni is to be believed, then the outlets will be surely be an ingenious way of engag-

‘What stands the Legend Real Deal Promo out from the crowd is a unique concept that has been termed: Legend Real Reward Nites. Legend Real Reward Nights will basically be special events which will feature winners of the promo receiving their gifts in a lavish ceremony and an atmosphere of conviviality.

Legend Real Reward Nites is scheduled for various locations across the country. In all there would be 36 of such outlets where the Legend Real Reward Nites would be held’

ing consumers. As opposed to the normal practise of just presenting the prizes to winners, the outlets would become a unique way of celebrating winners of the promo.

Another significant factor about the Legend Real Deal Promo is its method of doling out cash prizes. Unlike other promos where liquid cash prizes are handed to winners, the N5, 000 cash prize winners from the promo will get ATM cards pre-loaded with the sum.

Apart from the safety and convenience, this method of payment affords winners; it would also help drive the on-going Cashless policy scheme being embarked upon by the CBN. Confirming the initiative, Ayeni stated that the decision to go the cashless route was a clear indication that the brand was a confirmation of Legend Extra Stout’s pedigree as a corporate responsible brand.

“We looked at a lot of factors before going the cashless route. First, it is a very convenient and safe way for the winners as they walk away with their prize. But most especially, it confirms our status as a responsible brand. We are, by this gesture, adding our voices to the cashless gospel being preached by CBN,” Ayeni added.

Indeed, the promo would seem like Legend Extra Stout’s effort at making itself dominant in the market. Similar efforts at position Legend Extra Stout has paid dividends since its introduction in the market in 1992. The Stout has undergone series of changes both in its packaging and the content. Little wonder it is regarded as one of the top Stout drinks in the country.

The preferred stout drink for the young and upwardly mobile, Legend Extra Stout is seeking to conquer the market even as it continues to grow in leaps and bounds.

The promo will run for two months, May 1 to June 30.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

30

Omo: when dirt is good

N

IGERIAN consumers build and sustain Omo as a market leader and I’m convinced that the relationship will continue to wax stronger as the company will not give up on its promise to always maintain the quality of the brand and give support when necessary to our trade partners.” With these words, Thabo Mahebe, Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria, welcomed guests to the 50th year anniversary of Omo detergent as an iconic brand in the market. In his submission, the Brand Building Director of Unilever, Mr David Okeme said Omo’s success in the market place was due to its strong but long standing bond with consumers.

According to him, “Unilever’s mission is to always create products that will help consumers to ‘feel good, look good and get more out of life. The company is also committed to exceptional standards of performance and productivity. In order to sustain this success, we endeavor to maintain the highest standards of corporate behavior towards our employees, consumers, customers, communities and operating environment. ”Omo is a household favourite and this is because we are so deeply committed to meeting the everyday needs of people everywhere in Nigeria. What is more, our deep roots here combined with international experience and support; enable us to consistently develop brands, which raise the quality of life. It is therefore no surprise that one would find that all over Nigeria, people are at home with our brands, especially Omo, which is the celebrant of today.”

Right from the beginning, the struggle for market dominance was between Omo and Elephant, another detergent from the stable of PZ Cussons. The competition was so fierce and an assortment of marketing tools were employed in the epic battle by the brand custodians. But this was before the depression that erupted in the Nigerian market in the late 1980s. Then enter Klin, another fast moving detergent that became a favourite of students and the young at hearts in the 1990s. Klin was more popular among students, who saw it as magic powder on white materials. But again , Klin’s reign was shortlived when the Nigwerian government banned importation of detergent. Klin then was largely being imported into the country. In order to stave off competition, the company has continued to reestablish its relationship with consumers.

In its recent activation, which brought the brand face to face with consumers in major cities across the country, the managers urged parents to allow their children explore, learn and experience even if it means getting dirty in the process as this only helps in their

development.

According to a former Marketing Director of Unilever Nigeria, Dominic Kimani, the company believed that children’s exploration and play promotes their flexible adaptation to the world that they will meet their ability realistically to appraise risks and to balance proper independence with social understanding. Kimani, who spoke at the media launch of the ‘OMO D2D Stain challenge’ said: “When children explore the outdoor, they may get dirty in the process, however, OMO has promised to help remove these dirt especially difficult dried-in stains. Our formulation is designed to help you get brilliant results on these stains leaving the fabric thoroughly clean.” The stain Challenge was the second face of the initiatives and it was geared at changing people’s attitudes towards dirt, highlighting that getting messy allows children to learn, socialise and get some much-needed exercise amongst other objectives. What the company seemed to be saying through the campaign was that mothers needed not worry that their kids’ garments would get dirty if they let them go out and play as OMO would surely power out even the tough dried-in stains with minimal efforts on the part of the mother leaving the clothes looking sparkling clean. With the tagline ‘Dirt is good’, Unilever assured consumers that with Omo, there was nothing to worry about. So far, the Omo Door-to-door challenge anchored by a popular Nollywood actor, Segun Arinze, went through major cities in Nigeria. In all the cities visited, the efficacy of omo detergent was tested on Charcoal, grass and mud stain. In 2008, when the concept was introduced, not a few analysts condemned the ad copy on the premise that dirt could never be good. However, those who believed in the brand were not in doubt. Over the years, handlers of the brand have not only retained the concept, they have practically demonstrated its relevance to Omo. This lent credence to the explanation of Kimani, who affirmed at the launch, the need to allow children to explore, while learning.

According to him, “This is driven by scientific evidence that has shown that children who do not get involved in outdoor play eventually lead sedentary lifestyles that does not assist in the development of their creativity.”On what the company wanted to achieve through the activation, the Marketing Director said: “Our relationship with our consumers goes beyond just selling a detergent, but it is based on a simple belief that for a child to develop her full potential as human beings, they need to be free to experience their world, thus to promote this understanding among Nigerians, Omo is committing over four million Naira to the bursaries of children”.

Cashless banking for dummies (2)

H

E got it. He got it on a platter, and that is what deserves. What he was served is what he requested. It is similar to the way you order meals at restaurants.

If you request chicken and chips and cappuccino that is what you would get. On the other hand, if you choose to climb a cage so you could steal the chicken’s eggs and you fall and break your limbs in the process; that is your lot.

However, whatever you find in your plate is what you have attracted, nothing a morsel less, and nothing a morsel more. Therefore, our James got what he deserves. Whatever judgment he is served is not a punishment for his actions. Rather, it is the direct consequences of his deeds. Every action has reactions. Every cause has effect.

Every wall has two sides. Every beginning has an end. May be you could say the prison terms signalled his end. And, you know, he has been running, running away from the long arms of the law. How long can one keep running? How long? Well, you can only hide, you cannot run. Or can you?

However, isn’t it ironic that the same action he was accused of in Nigeria and was set free, the same action he was charged and convicted for in another land? Talk about running away from a law only to run into the waiting arms of the law. Is the law in the UK different from the law in Nigeria?

Yes, the law is blindfolded in the UK. It has 20/20 vision in Nigeria. It is sensitive to the feelings and shenanigans of the rich and powerful in Nigeria. It is insensitive to feelings and emotions of the citizens in the UK. If you break the law in the UK, it boomerangs and breaks you. If you break the law in Nigeria, it steps out with its paraphernalia of office and escorts you to your palatial home; unless you do not have a godfather. The law fines or imprisons offenders in the UK. It throws plea bargain at offenders in Nigeria.

That is why the cashless banking policy is still at its infancy. It is still a toddler and it would take a while for it to learn how to crawl because the law is porous, and Nigerians would always find a way around it, over it, under it and behind it.

Come, let us go to the banking hall and you would be converted.

Cash corridor There is a ‘cash corridor’ in the Niger Delta where the oil companies have fallen in love with cash. There is unusual demand for cash in this space. However, as salaries are paid, the cash is taken to Onitsha market

for the purchase of goods. The banks have since devised means to constantly mopping up cash in this corridor. How? Bullion van would be driven to Onitsha, mop up the cash and return to disburse the cash in Port Harcourt, Warri and other areas, and then the customers would go back to Onitsha to deposit the cash!

Point of sale terminal The scenario above can be solved by the deployment of PoS terminals, but would the system make it work? The answer is locked within the question. The cost of moving cash around, investment in Bullion vans, investment in sorters and processing the cash, have all become prohibited especially as the cash base is growing. What is the way forward?

Dollar to the rescue Okay, the CBN has said you cannot withdraw over N1 million. That is not a problem. How does Nigeria walk around this? The smart move is to ask a third party to transfer the money to your domiciliary account in hard currency. Once this is done, you can withdraw the Dollar equivalent in your local bank and that is cashless banking!

A fellow withdrew $12,000 over the counter!

When converted that is about N2 million.

What the local currency cannot do, hard currency would do better, abi?

30 standing, three serving Before the advent of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Lagos, the yellow bus also known as “molue” was king. The bus has seat for few passengers. But to maximise gains, owners of the buses would collect as many passengers as greed would allow to the extent that only a handful of passengers would be seated while numerous other be standing.

These passengers would be pressed so tightly together like canned fish. You would have thought that scene is gone forever. But when you walked into the banking hall and 30 or more bank customers were standing on a queue waiting to be served, you were shocked.

The customers had become agitated and were shouting, calling the attention of the bank manager to ensure speedy service.

Why? The three bank tellers attending to the crowd had been overwhelmed with the load of work at hand.

They could not do more than they were doing already. Among these customers were youths and market women. What caused this logjam? The bank’s debit platform had ground to a halt! This discovery automatically led to frustrations being expressed in varying degrees by the customers.

Wedding versus marriage

• Mobile phone dealers protesting the demolition of their shops in Totor/Ita Eko Road, Abeokuta ... on Wednesday

There are several news reports of marriages that have ended in divorce. As it is in Europe, so it is in America and Nigeria.

Divorce happened in all fronts including lowly citizens, not only among celebrity couples.

The overriding factor identified by marriage counsellors is that majority of couples who have found themselves on the other side of marriage is that they were not ready to weather the storm of marriage.

According to the experts, these divorcees usually planned big for the wedding day, forgetting that after the wedding ceremony comes the marriage, and marriage is not a crowd game.

It is a couple’s game. The same experience is being played out in the banking sector. The banks have ended their wedding ceremonies, but they are now confronting the challenges that come with marriages.

These banks are still battling with platform integration, software and culture issues. If the platform is not breaking down, it is not having a handshake.

If it is not causing bottlenecks at the banking halls, it is giving cashless banking bad name.

And like our James who is serving 13 years prison term in the UK, the cashless banking deserves the mud it attracts.

PHOTO: NAN

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, , e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

SHOPPING

31

THE NATION

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

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

Luxury wristwatches redefining style Not only do luxury watches tell the time, they add colour, class and prestige to one’s wardrobe. Over the years, they have advanced in technology. In this report, JANICE NKOLI IFEME gives you tips on how to buy a good watch

W

HETHER one is going for a job interview, a party or to entertain clients, a classy watch will enhance one’s dressing. A quality watch is a possession that one would treasure for a long time. Find the right one for the right occasion and dress. One could go for a sporty, casual or formal watch, depending on the occasion.

Sporty watches are for everyday use, such as work and recreational events while trendy ones are for special occasions such as black-tie events and weddings.

In 1920, wristwatches became an integral part of fashion and trend. Gone were the days when watches were typically put in the pockets. This trend started during World War I by the soldiers in combat zones; and that was just a humble beginning. Soon, the gold luxury watches took the world by storm. Subsequently, other luxury brand watches were introduced by leading watchmakers to match the pace of development.

Brands such as Citizen, Fossil, Bulova, Movado, Seiko, Rolex and Omega make quality watches for men and women, ranging from fashionable leather and steel casuals to elegant dress watches.

These days, watches have advanced in technology and are no longer just to tell the time; they are made for other purposes which stand them out.

A common technology is the Quartz technology, which was developed in 1969 and

• Luxury watch

popularised in 1980. They pass vibrations through a quartz crystal, creating a signal that is extremely precise. After being introduced to the world, the technology was in such high demand that several watch brands that had not adopted it, went out of business.

Many watch fanatics stick with high cost brands such as Rolex and Omega. The watches are simply made better on an entirely different level. For instance, Rolex’s patented oyster case is literally the most highly-sealed watch case available.

If desired, you could take it to a specialty shop just to get it open. These watches also contain less inner parts. Yet, they have vastly more precise funcionalities than any other common watch on the market. They last nearly forever and many times, are constructed with real gold, titanium, ceramic, and even diamond accents. Rolex is branded to signify style and builds its brand around golf, also denoting class. The leading stars in sports always opt for Rolex or Cartier watches because they have been branded as status symbols.

Citizen watches are powered by their patented eco-drive technology: solar powered watches that get their energy from sun and

Shopping for good women’s shoes Page 34

synthetic light. You would not need to wind them or change their battery.

Some also include chronograph, a stopwatch feature that can be used to time events.

In field applications, they are used primarily in yachting, aeronautics and auto sports.

Seiko’s kinetic self-winding technology means you will not need to indulge in the ritual of turning a dial to re-wind your watch.

Fossil watches are always a prime choice for casual work days or Friday nights. They range from circular to square shapes and come in a line of rugged stitched leather cuff Seiko’s flight Alarm watch, with a 42 mm wide dial, features flight industry-precise chronograph functions: 60-minute stopwatch, 12-hour basis alarm, international time and a bi-directional rotating slide bezel within coin-edged stainless steel.On the borderline between sport and dress, it is selfwinding and solidly built with a scratchproof sapphire crystal, stainless black steel 42 mm case and bracelet, as well as date, leap year and hourly clocks.

With a handsome rectangular case and Roman numerals, Seiko Coutura watch dress features a brass Cabochon case with hardlex • Continued on Page 32

Your right choice of car battery Page 35

• Jewellery watch.

‘How shopping malls can thrive’ Page 36

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

34

SHOPPING

Luxury wristwatches redefining style • Continued from Page 31

scratch-proof crystal, a black leather strap with matching gold-tone buckle clasp and is water resistant.

Fossil Decker watches for men are strictly sporty and come with a signature olive green canvas and a dial that fuses both digital and analog timekeeping.

A watch collector, Mr Adamson Dike, noted: A $100 watch and a $1,000 watch will both work the same, but the $1,000 watch is built to last. It is also precise enough to never deviate within minutes of keeping the time, as less expensive watches always do in the long run. Generally, the old adage,’ you get what you pay for is true’.

“You pay for the brand name, but you also pay for the quality that particular company has worked so hard to attain, to earn writing that amount on the price tag. That’s why your $25 Timex lasts a few years and the $2,700 Omega Seamaster watch lasts your entire lifetime”, he added.

Internet merchant, Amazon has an array of luxury watches to be purchased on line. Several malls such as Ikeja City mall, The Palms, Mega Plaza and City Mall, Onikan have wrist watch stores for male and female.

About the term water-resistant Water-resistant is a term vaguely stamped on watches, though most people are not sure if it should be taken literally. In general, it gauges the water depth/pressure level that a watch can survive in, but it does not gauge the depth in which water will enter the watch’s internal parts (which most people commonly confuse the term with). As a rule, do not dunk your watch under water, unless it is actually waterproof, or specially made for diving purposes.

Women’s luxury watches The vivid changes in wrist watches trends for women have been deduced from top luxury watches brands such as Tissot, Sector, Seiko, Rolex, G-Shocks and Rado, among others. With so many options to choose from, buying the luxury brand watches for her has also become overwhelming. So, a guide on women’s luxury watches trends is necessary while shopping for the best luxury watches.

Elegant and unique ladies luxury watches remain a great accessory on defining style.

There are many designs and varied colours available in the luxury brand watches range for women, which have redefined elegance.

The jewellery wristwatches To satisfy women’s love for jewellery, the modern watchmaker has fused the fine craft of watch making with the shimmer of jewellery to create elegant collection of jewellery wrist watches for her. Fashionable ladies use them in their formal and casual attires in prestigious manner.

Clasp bracelet watch

Fashionable collection of the clasp bracelet watches are still in vogue.

Strap and chain The detail range of chain and strap are wellliked by women of all age bracket.

Chronograph watches If you are the fashionable belle willing to get a watch with exquisite features, then a chronograph watch is the right watch for you.

Caring and maintaining luxury wristwatches Because of their high quality and durability, many people assume that luxury watches require little or no maintenance. Many have used their precious timepiece in some very inappropriate ways and have paid dearly for it by inadvertently damaging it. Below are tips on how to keep your timepiece in excellent condition.

Take off your wristwatch if you are in a situation in which you will be working around substances that could be harmful to it, such as chemicals or steam.

If you want to go for a bath, do not go with your wristwatch. This is because any of the chemicals that you use in the shower like soaps and shampoo, could damage it.

You should take your watch for servicing every two to five years. This rule is especially true for mechanical watches because they have oils that lubricate the inner parts, which dry up over time.

Do not touch the wheels or bridges of your watch with your fingers. It could lead to rust.

Also, do not use your mouth to blow air inside the movement; moisture (your saliva) can be introduced and no matter how minute the amount, it will lead to rust.

If your watch is magnetised, do not take it near a magnetic source or it will become very erratic and may even stop working entirely.

Do not wind your watch too often as this will quickly wear out it’s mechanical parts. When manually winding your watch, do it slowly and continuously, you will feel it resisting when it is fully wound. When you feel the resistance leave it alone, you could damage it if you persist. Do not forget to take it off your wrist before you wind it.

Use fresh water to thoroughly rinse your watch after swimming, to wash off the chlorine from the pool or salt from the sea.

Some watch crystals are made of acrylic or mineral crystals which make them easy to scratch, making them to have blurry screens.

Avoid having the crystals coming in contact with surfaces and do not place them upside down in any situation or place heavy objects on them.

Watches that have sapphire crystals are usually scratch-resistant but do not have them come in contact with diamond jewelleries because diamond can easily scratch them and sapphire crystals will break off easily when it is hit by a hard object. You can use polish on the crystals to give it a very clean look.

• Mens Citizen canvas watch

• Cartier stainless steel and 18K gold watch for women

• Seiko black watch

• Timex women's sports digital watch

• Luxury watch

Shopping for good women’s shoes Women pay great attention to their shoes because they provide protection and comfort to the feet. They also add colour to their dressing. OMOLARA MOFESOLA OMONIYI writes on the shoes to go for.

W

• Black heel shoes

OMEN wear different shoe designs dictated by fashion. When shopping for shoes, make choices that suit the purpose for which you need them. Be it for the office, a business dinner, cocktail party, wedding or sporting event, there are shoes for various occasions.

While many women like flat and low heels for comfort, others prefer high heels because they believe they look gorgeous and walk smarterin them.

Models and women, who participate in beauty pageants, are always encouraged to catwalk wearing high heel shoes to make them appear more elegant. The shoes raise the heels, typically 5cm or more, above the toes. They are commonly worn for formal occasions or social gatherings. Variants include kitten heels (with a very narrow heel

post) and wedge heels (with a wedge- shaped sole rather than heel post.

However, high heel shoes are regarded by some rural dwellers as a sign of waywardness. A Yoruba graduate of the University of Lagos, Ms Olusola Ayoola, said: “The rural parts of some western states regard those who wear heels as irresponsible. So, when I travel to the village, I hide my high heel shoes and wear the flat ones not to raise eyebrows.”

Slip-ons are without laces, often with tassels, buckles, or coin holders. Boat shoes are more casual, laces are usually simple leather with no frills. They are typically made of leather and have a white sole to avoid scratching the boat.

Slippers are for indoor use, commonly • Continued on Page 35

35

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

SHOPPING

Your right choice of car battery Battery is essential to keep your car in motion, which is why you need to know the right one for your car. JANICE NKOLI IFEME provides some tips.

I

T was 5pm and one of those hectic days at work. Miss Juliet Nwodo, a banker, had just closed for the day. From her office in Victoria Island, Lagos, she headed for Ejigbo, where she lived.

Having swerved through the usual traffic gridlock on the Island through the Third Mainland Bridge, she finally got to Oshodi and heaved a sigh of relief to see that Oshodi was free. Seeing signs of heavy traffic on Isolo Road, she diverted to the Okota-Isolo Road and did not meet any traffic until she got to the Oke-Afa Bridge where the traffic jam was simply terrible. That was when the bubble burst. She switched off her engine for a while as all vehicles were stationary for a long time. As soon as there was little room to move, she switched on her car but it did not start. She always ensured that her car was in good condition. So, what could have gone wrong? she wondered She tried everything she knew how, to no avail. A mechanic finally came to her aid. It was a battery problem.

Of course, no one needs to be told that without the battery, the car would not move. You need it to start your car. A car needs a very sound battery to operate successfully.

A major place to get batteries at affordable prices is the spare parts market, Ladipo, Mushin. A battery dealer at the market, Mr Bernard Nwodo, said: “To know a good battery, once you slot your key in the ignition, the car starts at once. The alternator and cut out have to function very well to aid the good functioning of the tyre.”

He identified two types of batteries available as the wet cell and the dry cell battery.

electrolyte is weak. So, you have to open the cell and put fresh acid and charge it before use. Before that, you have to check the alternator and cut out, which make the battery to last longer. After changing the acid and it still does not work, it is better replaced.”

According to him, wet cell can last for up to 18 months or much longer and it is cheaper than the dry cell.

Dry cell battery

Major dry cell batteries come from Korea.

“Dry cell means free maintenance; no changing, no toping. Any day it fails, it has failed.

Most people prefer the dry cell. Some do not have time to check water and acid. Wet cell has vent while the dry cell does not. Its minimum life span is two to three years, Mr Nwodo said, adding: “Whichever you use, the choice is yours.”

Wet cell battery The wet cell battery uses acid and water for topping and would need regular attention unlike the dry cell, which is self-maintaining. “If the cell is not foaming, it means the • Wet cell battery.

• Dry cell battery.

Shopping for good women’s shoes • Continued on Page 34

worn with the pyjamas, while sandals consist of a sole and various straps, leaving much of the foot exposed to the air. They are popular for warm weather use, because they let the feet to be exposed to the air than a closed shoe would.

Contemporary foot wears vary widely in style, complexity and cost. Basic sandals may consist of only a thin sole and simple strap. High fashion shoes may be made of very expensive materials in complex construction and sell for thousands of naira per pair, which is why some shoes are expensive. Many

go for brand name shoes to signify their class. Some, while complaining of the high cost of designer shoes, still struggle to get them to ‘fit in’, as the saying goes, ‘he who wants to wear the crown should labour for it’.

Some shoes are relatively cheap, making them affordable, even to the less privileged.

Traditionally, shoes are made from leather, wood or canvas materials, but proactive shoe designers make shoes from rubber, plastics and other materials.

Shoes protect the foot, which is vulnerable to environmental hazards such as sharp rocks, grounds and climate conditions, because it contains more bones than any other single part of the body.

Shopping Right with FROM MY MAIL BOX Dear reader, Thanks for maintaining the flow with The Nation Shopping. We greatly appreciate you for reading us and sending your comments.

We are poised to serve you always and give you every valuable pieces of information on our finger tips.

Today is the first Friday of the month and as usual, we would always display your comments as space enables us. Please bear with us if your response is not published in this edition.

Janice, I love that report on Online shopping, written on April 6, 2012. I used to be afraid of shopping Online because of the so called scammers. You have truly succeeded in enlightening me on that issue. I am already looking forward to it. I am also happy for the one on credit cards.

JANICE NKOLI IFEME

I must confess that until I read that article, I did not realise that I could use my master card for any other purpose other than just withdrawing money from the ATM machine. Thanks so much. Our lives are getting better because people like you are working. Johnson Adebiyi, Abeokuta.

Thanks for increasing our knowledge on trading on the internet. Indeed, the world has become a global village where you can do transactions from any part of the globe. I remember when year 2000 was approaching; people were afraid of what was to become of the computer, which was just becoming popular at the time. Even laptops were not even known, save for those who travelled out of the country. I think Nigeria is also advancing.

Look at where we are today. Almost everyone now has a phone. Some are even using iPads, iphones and tablets. It’s a good thing. Thanks, Jonah Abimbola, Badagry.

Janice, what you wrote about internet scam is true. I know someone who used to be into it. I have not seen him in a long time though. It will amaze you how he was making his money. He opened a website advertising that he had a pet farm. He even had photos of beautiful pet dogs, cats and the rest of them. Do you know that people get to pay for them and of course, the goods are never delivered? I think that is one aspect of internet fraud.

Alaba Emmanuel, Abuja.

In your article on April 13, tagged, ‘learn to shop smart’. There is an expression I like there, where you said: “If fools did not go to market, cracked pots and false wares would not be sold”. I think that is a true saying. I often wonder why people would go to the market and buy something that is not good with their own money, just because it is cheaper? How about the other implications? Well, as you rightly said, it is a matter of choice. Some actually choose to buy a false ware with their money. There are things one may never understand. Thank you for being there. Uzochukwu Umeaku, Awka.

I want to comment on your article entitled, ‘Consumers adjust to austerity measures’. I can tell you that we Nigerians have been adjusting way too much. We adjust to food, light, water, electricity, poor infrastructure and virtually everything. Honestly, government should congratulate the masses for suffering and smiling. I keep wishing that something will happen to make all these so called leaders turn a new leaf, stop siphoning our money and use it to do something meaningful to better the lives of the people. Clement Ugwu, Owerri That article on ‘consumers adjust to austerity measures’ is apt. The people in power keep stealing our money and make us to keep adjusting to the austerity measures they have created. They think they will always go scot free, forgetting that there is a day of reckoning. All our unscrupulous politicians should remember that everyday is for the thief but one day for the owner of the house. They should better go and ask Ibori how it feels to be caught. It reminds me of what a pastor said while preaching. He said: “Do you know that everybody can steal? The only reason that keeps most people from stealing is the fear of being caught.” If you look at it critically, you will discover that the man is right. These people are stealing daily from the government coffers and can anyone really catch them?

Chigozie Edozie, Port Harcourt.

I think with the establishment of shopping malls, different people are trying to upgrade their stores and services. I visited a supermarket I stopped patronising for lack of quality service and was surprised that they had really improved on their services. I pointed this out to the proprietor who affirmed that he actually had to sack some of his sales personnel for not attending to customers very well. The supermarket is quite good but was marred by bad service. I hate bad service so much that I denied myself some things I knew that I could have gotten there. I was happy when I saw that they had made a change in that direction. Anonymous Janice, it’s amazing that people set up just any shop and call it a mall. Please let these people understand that they cannot fool anyone. It’s either they do not understand what they are doing or that they are not well informed. I visited a supermarket at Victoria Island and almost fell down because there was no light at the staircase. Meanwhile, there was no car park or even a make-shift place to park. I had to drive up and down looking for where to park. The funniest of it was that when I finally found my way up there, a man came towards me and said: “Welcome to our shopping mall”. I later realised that he was the manager. To me, a shopping mall is a shopping centre with several stores where people can get virtually everything they want to buy. That is my observation. Keneth Udoh, Surulere, Lagos.

A push for Made-in-Nigeria goods is a good article. Keep it up. Nigerians are really doing a great job. Without enabling environment, they are doing so well. You can imagine how much they will achieve with little enablement. I think that is what every politician should consider before they opt to contest for any election. Mike Ugo, Maiduguri.

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

36

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

SHOPPING

‘How shopping malls can thrive’ President, Capital Sports Club, Anambra State, Sir Emeka Ejide, in this interview with ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU in Nnewi, calls for the establishment of shopping malls in the state.

H

AVING lived in Nnewi for over 30 years, what can you say about the existence of shopping malls in the

state?

Initially, we had what was called Anambra State Marketing Board, where we had cooperative stores. Then, it was good because they were being stimulated by the manufacturers and they competed favourably with what you see in the market. But, over a period of time, the co-operative market fizzled out and for now there are agitations for shopping malls. That is our problem. So, for now, I do not think there is a shopping mall; rather, what we have is a shopping complex in faraway Onitsha and Nkpor, where we have Eleganza. People are taking shops at exorbitant prices and displaying their foreign goods and cosmetics.

Where do you shop?

As a matter of fact, I do most of my shopping within the community. I buy my garri in Mgbakwu and Isuaniocha in Awka North but when I want to buy my provisions, I go to Onitsha Main market? The essence of that is that I cut my coat according to my cloth.

Shopping malls here are very expensive.

What of your clothes and shoes?

As a matter of fact, I am a proponent to what you call, the local material so I go for made-in-Nigeria shoes which are sold at Eke Awka or I go to the market at Aba to get some.

Does it mean there are no shopping malls in this part of the country?

Shopping malls should be manufacturersoriented and what I mean is that they get these things from the source and when they get it from the source, it is going to compete favourably with what you have in the competitive market and then we patronise that.

I was meant to understand that at Shoprite in Enugu, that cosmetics are cheap. Drinks are also cheap but other things are not. When I went to Enugu, I went there. I also went to Abakpa market. Things are cheaper in Abakpa and Main market, Enugu, than what you see in Shoprite. But then, beverages (drinks) are very cheap there.

Are shopping malls necessary in places like Nnewi, Ekwulobia, Onitsha and Awka?

It is necessary if the objective is to compete favourably with what you have in the competitive market. For the masses, it is a welcome development in terms of urbani-

sation and then for the stomach. It should not be for the bourgeois or the upper class to have an influx of foreign goods that the common man cannot really enjoy or buy.

Do you think that there are other advantages of having a shopping mall?

Of course, it is part of urbanisation, which increases workforce. People that are not working will get there and work. At least, it will be able to create jobs for people living in that vicinity. It will also reduce the outflow of people traveling to other states in search of quality goods.

The common man, who will have to buy from the local market, will be happy that there is light in the city even though we do not have light. Remember what happens in the village people say ‘Oku di be anyi’ (we have light) while there is no light in your own house but you are seeing light and that makes you happy.

Is there any difference between a shopping mall and local markets, such as Eke Awka and Nkwo Igboukwu?

Anambra State is regionally stimulated in terms of their various diversified products.

For instance, if you want to buy a commodity like red oil you go to Ekwulobia market.

If you want to buy bitter leave, ogiri and other items, you go to Umudioka. If you need something like fruits, you go to Nnewi. Before their bridge collapsed, people went to Mgbakwu, Isuaniocha and Ebenebe to buy garri. So each market has its catchment product. And then we have to look at the preoccupation of the citizens there.

So, if the shopping mall is going to harness these things put together and ensures that food security in this state is encouraged by making sure that the agricultural sector at least tills the land, fertilise and produce, then the shopping mall will process the food preservation.When that is done, you will discover that things are moving and everything will start to flow. So that is what we call the shopping mall.

Do you advocate that government build shopping malls or attract investors that will do that in the state?

Before you talk of shopping malls, you should galvanise the state in terms of infrastructural development, inflow of quality goods and then, there will not be a competitive market like local markets. But if the shopping mall will take cognisance of involv-

• Ejide

ing what is being produced in our local markets, so that they can be preserved and prepared for sale and at each point in time, whatever quality you want of a particular product is there.

Is the cost of shops responsible for the high cost of some of the goods in the malls or super markets?

No, it is not the high cost of shops. The high cost of things is based on the economy because building materials are quite expensive.

There is no where you can build with N10 and you will like to rent your shop with N50.

It does not really make sense. And the cost of materials has not been easy and most times, most of the things we use to produce are not locally manufactured.

So, what is the value of our currency and what we have? You see that whatever we exchange for our money does not really make it. So, it is not only the high cost of building the shop or high cost of renting shops but the cost of the materials being used and they are not produced locally. So, if you want to talk of shopping mall in the real sense, you have to make sure that most of these items are manufactured locally and used to put things in place.

For example, we should have a cement plant in Anambra State so that the cost of cement will come down and then, we should also find a way of seeing what we can do either jointly or co-operatively to ensure that

rods that are produced in Oshogbo and other places is a way of government coming into it.

But if we continue to import all these things and to build with them, there is no way the prices could come down. Otherwise it will be the sure way of subsidising fuel, subsidising rent and at the end of it, we will not achieve anything.

Can you advise on the goods that have comparative advantage in Anambra State?

We have comparative advantage over others in terms of agricultural products. Anambra State is agro based. But definitely, the Igbo man relates to his stomach and it is quite sure that we ought not to be hungry. But, unfortunately, we are very hungry because the goods are not there. Even when you talk about this red oil that appears that Enugu State has more advantage over us, it is domiciled here. Look at the palm tree investment at Igbariam; what is happening? Nothing for now.

All these areas are what we should reinvest in; so that we can bring them out in the market. So, in terms of agriculture, we have advantage over others. For rice production, we should look at the one at Achalla, Awba Ofemili and so on. They are all very good in rice production. What are we doing to stimulate those things there?

So, if a shopping mall is geared towards that, taking advantage of the areas we have comparative advantage over others, then it will be a welcome development.

Mobile phones: Making life easier Everyone needs a phone. Apart from its use for communication, there are other functions phones, especially the BlackBerry, perform. OMOLARA MOFESOLA OMONIYI writes on other functions of phones.

T

HERE are different manufacturers of phones. This is why each phone bears the name of its maker. For instance, there are Nokia phones, Samsung phones, HTC phones and Sony Ericsson phones among others, including BlackBerry, which is the most sought after by both the old and young.

It is no longer news that a BlackBerry phone offers one of the cheapest internet access in Nigeria. With as low as N1,500, you can get reasonable data allowance on BlackBerry complete while N3,000 will provide unlimited browsing.

The BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) is the best thing that has ever happened to BlackBerry users. With it, pictures, voice notes and files could be sent to other BlackBerry users. Even, you could show your location. But it all depends on the availability of networks at the particular area where you are.

They have various games that are installed in them by either the company or the buyer.

So, apart from the function of making calls (National and international), there are no dull moments since another option of play-

ing games is there.

They are used for weather forecasting. It is very risky for you to leave your house, especially this rainy season without knowing what the weather has to offer.

They will just pick up their phones and know how it is going to be later in the day.

It has been argued over time, that the weather forecast could sometimes not be true. But to a reasonable extent, it has helped.

Latest happening in the surrounding would first be broadcast to the BlackBerry users, even before the media covers them. A typical example is the recent bombings in the country. Also, the situation of the traffic in particular routes would also be broadcast to them before the others.

However, they are relatively expensive and due to the economic situation of the country, very few people can afford to buy the brand new ones.The ‘not too rich’ people will not like to be left out. This category of people seek the fairly used ones. However, when shopping for the fairly used ones, extra care must be taken.

The various Blackberries available are

• Blackberry porsche

curve, bold, torch, storm, playbook and Porsche among others. But your choice on the one to select depends very much on your budget.

Check out the body of the phone to avoid buying the scratched ones and also to check how shiny it looks. Then test the phone to check how it works before making payment.

You could also make negotiations of warranty with the seller to be on the safer side.

• Blackberry torch

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

37

SOCIETY The Fidau of Alhaji Malik Bamgbola, father of an American-based Associate Professor, Fatai Bamgbola, has been held in Lagos. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO was there

I

N his active days, the late Alhaji Malik Ayinla Bamgbola, father of an American-based Associate Professor Fatai Bamgbola, was very popular in Ebute-Meta, Lagos Mainland. He did not achieve the prominence through academic scholarship or political position; rather it was through his choice of his car - Volvo.

His type of Volvo, according to one of his admirers and friend of his children, Hon Kamal Abiodun Bayewu, is alien to the community we lived in then.

Bayewu, an Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chieftain, told The Nation that once people sighted the Volvo, no one needed be told that Alhaji Bamgbola was in town.

"It was a delight back then for the entire community to watch Alhaji Bamgbola cruise around in that alien Volvo,” he said.

These and many more were the fond memories people relived at the Fidau for the deceased last Sunday at his residence on Moleye Street, Ebute-Meta, Lagos Mainland.

Bamgbola, who died on Sunday April 22, was buried in his hometown in Kwara State the following day according to Islamic rites.He was 95.

The crop of personalities who came for the Fidau attested to the good life lived by the deceased.

Residents and passersby watched keenly as guests turned the area to a Mecca of sorts.

Alighting from classy cars, they were received by the children of the deceased led by Dr Bamgbola; his younger brother, who is the Chairman, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area, Hon Hakeem Adisa Bamgbola and sisters Alhaja Taibat Bamgbola; Alhaja Shakirat Amoda and Alhaja Sherifat Adeyi.

Some of the guests registered their condolence with the widow of the deceased, Alhaja Rafatullahi Ajoke, who sat on the front roll.

The event featured Quran recitation, sermons, prayers for the deceased and family members.

The retinue of clerics was led by Chief Imam of Mainland Imam Sabitu Lawal and Sheikh Baqi.

Imam Lawal urged those at the event to be God-conscious.

Death, the cleric warned, is certain.

"If you spend 1,000 years on earth, death will certainly catch up with you one day. Therefore, endeavour to live a good life and leave good legacy like our father we are honouring today," he said.

After the prayers, Hon Bamgbola moved round to ensure guests were well entertained.

Decked in white jalabia, a cap, dark goggle and a pair of leather slippers to match, the Itire-Ikate council boss acknowledged greetings from the guests who kept shouting Omo Oloku!

Some of the guests, who spoke with The Nation, include the Onitire of Itire, Oba Lateef Dauda.

The monarch enjoined the Bamgbolas to maintain the good name the deceased left behind.

"No doubt, he lived a good life.

Look at how successful his children are, especially my council Chairman, Hon Bamgbola. He has run an unusual government since his assumption as the council boss. So many development programmes have been carried out and many are still on going. I think we all need to emulate the deceased's good work," Oba Dauda said.

Bayewu, who is also the Chairman, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government said the deceased was a role model to his and friends.

"I knew him when I was very

•From left: Alhaji Lai Muhammed; deceased’s widow Alhaja Bamgbola and Alhaji Obalola

•Oba Dauda

‘He lived a good life’

•From right: Dr Bamgbola; Hon Bayewu; Hon Bamgbola and Mr Abidemi Yaqub

•From left: Hon Aderinsola Odunsi; Hon Fuad Oki; Chairman, Drain Duck Akeem Apatira and Tunde Montana

small and he was one of the people we always look up to because we wanted to be successful like him. His children are well taken care of and I'm not surprised they are all successful. They can always find their feet anywhere.

Alhaji has done well and I believe he is resting in peace. People should emulate him. I condole with the children of the deceased and equally welcome them to the fatherless children's club," he said.

One of the deceased children, Dr Bamgbola, described his father as a wonderful man.

“He was a loving dad. You could always see his love for his

children the way he related with us. He would have been much more successful if he had opportunity of going to school.

Despite the fact that he did not have opportunity to go to school, he was very intelligent and enterprising. He ensured all his children are educated.

“He lived a moderate life. I miss his words of wisdom. You cannot come in contact with him without gaining more wisdom. We always remember his quotations that geared towards living a better life," Dr Bamgbola, a Pediatric Morphologist said.

•Hon Benjamin Olabinjo

•From left: Alhaja Taibat Bamgbola; Alhaja Shakirat Amoda; Alhaja Sherifat Adeyi and Alhaja Ashabi Bamgbola

•From left: Hon Afeez Ipesa-Balogun; Hon Abiodun Mafe; Hon Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe and Aare Kamorudeen Danjuma

38

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4 , 2012

SOCIETY

•Hon Ojelabi (left) presenting a cheque to Alhaji Ganiyu Adewale •Hon Akinderu-Fatai exchanging pleasantries with Oba Kuti and Hon Ipesa-Balogun (left)

Partying with elders It was party time as a member of the House of Representatives, Hon Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, hosted no fewer than 200 elders to a lavish reception at the auditorium of Ikeja Grammar School, Bolade, Oshodi-Lagos, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

T

HE expansive hall of Ikeja Grammar School, Bolade, Oshodi, Lagos was the centre of attraction last Friday.

The 200-capacity hall was nearly filled to capacity by men and women, many of whom were fit to be in pensioners’ club.

They were not gorgeously dressed but their appearance was quite eye-catching.

With smiles beaming on their faces, one could conclude that the elders were in for a jolly time.

Though the event was held in an academic environment but the serenity of the atmosphere pointed to the motive behind the gathering.

The gathering equally attracted eminent personalities who graced the event in their best outfits.

Among them were Elewu of Ewu Kingdom Oba Shakirudeen Kuti; Lagos Commissioner for Rural Development Hon Cornelius Ojelabi; Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Religious Affairs (Christian) Revd Samuel Ogedengbe; Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Apex Leader in Oshodi-Isolo Chief Joseph Olabintan; former Chairman, Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Hon Afeez Ipesa-Balogun; his successor Hon Bolaji Muse-Ariyoh; Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman Alhaji Rasheed Alamutu and the Iyaloja of the council Chief Idowu Arowjobe.

Aside wining and dining, each person was financially empowered and received lots of souvenirs.

The brain behind the ceremony Hon Moruf Akinderu-Fatai thanked the monarch and other dignitaries for their presence.

Akinderu-Fatai, a member of House of Reps, representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency 1 was full of praises for the elders.

Decked in white attire and a cap with insignia of his name, MAF as the lawmaker is fondly called, lamented the problems people faced at old age.

Aged people, he said, have not received the required attention they deserve in Nigeria.

“They are always at the receiving end of the socio-economic problems in Nigeria. They are supposed to be well taken care of in the society.

The family and governments have roles to play in ensuring that our aged is promoted from degradation and loss of status,” he said “As a nation, he said, we have failed in this area of social security for our elderly. Much need to be done in this area, we must assist the elders among us. Unfortunately, their pensions are not paid. Pension funds are withheld and embezzled by wicked public officers. Many old people have slummed and died while queuing for long hours to collect their pension. In the light of these problems, we must not fold our arms, our fathers and mothers must be catered for even like babies irrespective of existing relationship.

We must stand by them, we must pamper them because we cannot afford to abandon them, as we all pray to get old one day”.

•Rev Ogedengbe

•Hon Muse-Ariyoh

Akinderu-Fatai thanked them for giving valuable advice always.

Oba Kuti urged other elected officers to emulate MAF’s gesture.

Looking cute in stunning traditional regalia, long red royal bead dangling on his neck and wrist, holding white horsetail, dark goggle and a white cap, the monarch was full of praises for the lawmaker on the developmental progreammes he has brought to the constituency.

While praying God to grant him long life, the monarch promised to always support his course.

Hon Ojelabi urged the elders not to forget MAF in their prayers.

He said the lawmaker has display how

best to represent people in position of authority.

“This is another dynamic way of alleviating poverty in our society. I must congratulate Hon MAF for this initiative,” he noted.

An elated Chief Olabintan said MAF’s case is a thing of joy for him.

“I thank God for not disgracing me through MAF. We have had other people in elective offices who failed to impact on their constituencies but MAF has always brought joy to us,” he said.

The ACN leader showered prayers on him.

The trio of Alhaji Alamutu; Chief Arowojobe and Hon Muse-Ariyoh also thanked MAF for being a worthy representative.

CONJUGAL BLISS

•From left: Groom’s mum, Pastor Bunmi Obadimeji; Bride’s dad Mr Sunday Oladimeji; the couple former Miss Jope Oladimeji and her beau Seyi Obadimeji; bride’s mum Mrs Esther Oladimeji; Mrs Sola Oike and the groom’s dad Pastor Yomi Obadimeji, during their wedding at RCCG Isolo, Lagos

39

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

SOCIETY Family members and friends of a businessman Alhaji Babatunde Adeniji gathered at the Nigeria Army Ordinance Corps, Abalti Barracks, Lagos, for the wedding of his daughter, Kanyisola and her beau, AbdulRaheem Olaniyi Agboola, last Saturday. AMIDU ARIJE reports.

S

HE appeared in beautiful chocolate Aso-Oke with headgear, a necklace and pair of shoes.

It was her wedding day and Kanyisola stole the show with her dancing skills Guests also doffed their hats for Kanyisola's attire.

Her husband, Olaniyi, wore Agbada with Abeti-Aja cap - all made of Aso-Oke. He also dazzled with his dance steps.

The Nikkah between the lovebirds was co-ordinated by the National Missioner of Allahu Nuru Islamic Foundation, Alhaji Alli Gbagba.

It started with the recitation of Suratul Fathiah.

Alhaji Gbagba, after requesting for the necessary prerequisites of Nikkah, joined the couple in holy matrimony.

He charged the wife to be dutiful to her husband.

“The righteous women are devoutly obedient to their husbands and guard his property in his absence," he said.

He enjoined the husband to be dutiful to his wife and always protect her.

“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women because Allah has given the strength,” he said.

The elated bride Kanyinsola could not hide her joy.

“I don't know how to describe my joy; but I know I am very happy that this special event is taking place today. It is once in one’s life. So, I am very glad," she said.

She described her husband as loving, caring and God-fearing.

"To keep an open mind, I didn't know it can be this sweet, nice and interesting. But if you keep an open mind, everything would fall in place,” she stated.

The groom, Olaniyi, thanked God for the success of the day.

“It is a day we had been looking forward to and it came to reality today. I give thanks to Allah,” he said.

He described their relationship as heaven-made.

“We are actually destined to be together. Our meeting was ordained. We met at workplace,” he said.

Describing his wife, he said: “She is everything to me; her smile, character and beauty attracted me.”

The bride's father, Alhaji Adeniji, urged his daughter to learn from the life of her mother and live by it.

“I will advise her to go for a brief lesson from her mum, because in the past 30 years we have been married, she has been loyal and dedicated.

Whenever there is any problem, she is always there for me, so she should be there for her husband too,” he said.

The groom's mother, Mrs Fatimoh Agboola, urged the couple to be prayerful and love each other.

'Our union is ordained by God' •From left: Bride’s parent: Alhaji and Alhaja Adeniji; the couple Olaniyi and Kanyinsola and the groom’s parent: Mr and Mrs Agboola

•Former Lagos Attorney-General Alhaja Wonuola Folami (left) and Mrs Morenike

•Chief Temple Benson and wife Mrs Angela

•Otunba Wasiu Ekisola (left) and Prince Ojomola

•Prince Koye Adejumo and his wife, Princess Eniola PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

UNION OF LOVEBIRDS

MARITAL BLISS

•Former Miss Angela Chinedu and her beau Theophilus Akanwa cutting their wedding cake in Lagos •Former Miss Zeenat Danmole and her beau Azeez Ajiboye during their traditional wedding at Eko Club, Surulere, Lagos

40

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

SOCIETY

And the two become one Eko Club in Surulere, Lagos was agog on Saturday, April 14 when Chukwunweike Michael Uche got hooked to former Miss Olasunmbo Oluwayemisi Ogunbodede, reports AMINA ADESINA. HE holy matrimony between Chukwunweike Michael Uche and former Miss Olasunmbo Oluwayemisi Ogunbodede was conducted by Love Assembly Area under Lagos Province 17 of The Redeemed Christian Church of God. The Pastor in charge of the Province, Pastor David Omunagbe led other officiating ministers.

For Olasunmbo, staff member of Old Mutual Co. Nigeria, the daughter of Elder Olurotimi Ogunbodede, a retired Principal Manager with FirstBank’s Classified Assets Department and Chukwunweike of Ecobank Plc, son of the late Navy Commander Sunday Osadebay Uche, it was their day of rejoicing.

The bride, looked beautiful in white flowing wedding gown, silver bead used as necklace and earrings, a wrist watch and pair of blue shoe.

While her husband, Chukwunweike appeared in a black suit, a white shirt, waist coat and matching black pair of shoe.

Friends and well-wishers were on hand to be part of the celebration.

To Elder Ogunbodede, it was a day of joy.

Pastor Omunagbe reminded the gathering that since the joining is of the Lord, no one can put it asunder.

Supported by Pastors Nireti Oladapo and Abiodun Adeyinka, pastors in charge of zone and area, he handed over the marriage certificate

T

•Bride’s parents Chief Olurotimi Ogunbodede and his wife Bolaji

•The couple Chukwunweike and Olasumbo

•Groom’s parents Mrs Clara Uche; Mr Gabriel Uche and Alhaja Amoke Thomas

•Pastor Omunagbe (left) and Pastor Oladapo

to the couple on behalf of the church.

In his sermon, Pastor Soji Omotunde, General Manager (Training and Development) of Vintage Press Limited described the day as one ordained by God for celebration.

The union, Pastor Omotunde said, is the beginning of a new life.

Quoting from Genesis 2:24-25, he said, it is the will of God that a man should leave his parents to cleave

unto his wife to become one flesh.

According to him, when couple surrenders to the control of the Lord, they would remain naked under Divine protection and be covered by the glory of God without being put to shame.

Present on the occasion were Pastor Ayo Ogunbiyi, Mrs Maryam Hassan, Wale Talabi, among others.

•Pastor Omotunde (right) and Pastor Abiodun Adeyinka PHOTOS: NIYI ADENIRAN

The engagement between Adedunni Yewande, daughter of Mr Amos Adekunle Afun and her beau, Bernadino Olatokunbo, son of Mr Ogunsina Doregos, has been held in Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI writes.

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HEY left no stone unturned. Security men stopped unwanted guests at the gates of the Balmoral Events Centre, Lagos.

Those invited walked on a green carpet that could be mistaken for grass.

It was the traditional wedding and engagement of the love birds, Adedunni Yewande and Bernadino Olatokunbo.

The hall was filled. Some guests stood at strategic points to see all that was happening. The hall was decorated in skyblue. Fresh fruits – orange, carrots and bananas – brought by the groom's family in small baskets were placed on the centre of the table.

Guests turned out in silver and white outfits. Members of the couple’s families wore sky blue headgears. Others wore uniformed Ankara of the same blue colour.

All made a fashion statement with their various styles. Both families’ sat across each other.

When the groom was called in, he was accompanied by his friends. They danced to the centre of the hall. Wanting to know how physically and financially fit Tokunbo was, the Emcee asked the groom to dance and drop money into a bowl.

Later, the pretty bride came in. She was

Signs of things to come beautifully dressed in cream coloured lace and gele to match. As her friends walked her into the hall, the guests sang the popular nursery rhyme - Who is in the garden. When she came forward, her charming smile attracted lots of naira notes from Bernadino.

The height of the event was when the groom's parents, the Doregos, paid the bride price. It was presented to the Afuns.

There were prayers and pieces of advice for the couple.

Afterwards, the double-layered briefcase cake with butterflies was cut.

The church wedding holds tomorrow.

•The couple Olatokunbo and Adedunni

T

Mourinho:

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

43

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

• Obi

• Ngige

•Uba

• Soludo

• Okonkwo

In another 21 months, Governor Peter Obi’s tenure will come to an end in Anambra State. Some governorship aspirants have started showing interest in the exalted office. Correspondent NWANOSIKE ONU examines the challenges before contending political parties and the chances of their aspirants.

Anambra: Who succeeds Obi in 2014?

A

S Govovernor Peter Obi begins the last lap of his twoterm tenure in Anambra State, dozens of aspirants are warming up to succeed him.

Given the peculiar nature of the political terrain, March 26, 2014, when the battle is expected to take off, it may just be around the corner.

Although many aspirants are in the race, the real battle is likely to be fought by the three major political parties-the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Labour party (LP) joining the fray.

Notwithstanding the crises that has rocked PDP in the last ten years, it still parades major political gladiators. APGA, which has dominated the state in the past seven years, has one or two issues to settle for it to keep its hold on the state.

Its national chairman, Chief Victor Umeh, is being tackled from all fronts by people who think that the party needs a change of guard.

The ACN has to get its act right but with the solid background and the presence of Senator Chris Ngige, representing Anambra Central Senatorial zone and as former governor of the state, the party is believed to be on course.

However, the in-roads being made by these three parties do not stop other parties from making their presence felt. The All Nigerian Peoples party (ANPP), one time opposition party in the state is equally looking formidable. Members of opposition parties have joined the party in its renewed effort at registering their presence espcially with Chief Patrick Orjiako as chairman. Governorship aspirants have indicated interest on the party’s platform for 2014 election.

The LP which won one legislative seat in the Anambra State House of Assembly is not taking the situation calmly as it has started re-engineering to produce the next governor.

It has been noted that internal harmony will play major role in their strength. Last week, the LP named

Jude Ezenwafor as its state chairman, with a mandate Jude to pilot the affairs, while one time governorship aspirant Chief Basil Iwuoba emerged as the secretary. Other notable and grassroots politicians of the PDP now with LP: They are Rich Onuorah, Publicity Secretary, Alex Obi, Mrs Faith Ogbodo, Mrs Theresa Obi (Woman Leader) among others.

The Nation gathered the PDP stalwarts have gone to LP to prepare the way for Senator Andy Uba’s governorship ambition. It was gathered that the presidency has started the groundwork for one Nze Sullivan Akachukwu who is at the presidency for the 2014 battle.

As a result, Uba’s loyalists have started preparing the way for him in LP as PDP might deny him the ticket. Besides, the re-elected state chairman is Uba’s confidant.

The party’s congress was witnessed by members of the State Security Service (SSS), representative of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by Ezeigwe Priscilla and representative of the state INEC, Mrs Nkechi Ofong.

The national chairman of the party, Chief Dan Nwanyanwu told The Nation that the party’s target is the Government House, Awka, adding that with the array of people in the party the dream is becoming feasable.

However, Obi has said he is only interested in somebody from the North Senatorial zone as successor.

One banker whose name had remained speculative is being mentioned as the likely person.

Other names being dropped in the state are: Dr. Chris Ngige (ACN), Prof Charles Soludo (PDP), Mr. Ifeanyi Ubah of the Capital Oil and Gas (APGA). Ubah was said to have joined the party recently. Chief Mrs Uche Ekwunife (PDP) and Senator Annie Okonkwo (PDP) are being put forward.

Some interest groups including students have started pasting Ngige’s posters all over the state.

The ACN, through its state’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Okelo Madukaife has dissociated itself from the action. describing those

behind the act as desperate.

He said: “Ngige who represents Anambra Central Senatorial zone is too busy a man for any person or group to distract him at this particular moment, some of the problems bordering him are too numerous to mention and not governorship position at least for now.”

He called on the proponents of such ideas to desist, saying if there should be anything like that, the ACN leader in the Southeast geopolitical zone will be the only person to make it known.

Besides Ngige, another serious link to the position is Okonkwo of the PDP but some have said his romance with APGA has become obvious that he may pitch his tent with the party. The speculation is that Ekwunife will withdraw for Okonkwo.

However, majority of the people in the state believe so much in Okonkwo as they continue to describe him as the only person that has a heart of gold because his philanthropic disposition. It is being speculated that Obi’s deputy Mr. Emeka Sibeudu is augling to suc-

ceed his boss.

When contacted, Sibeudu’s media aide Mr. Emma Madu refuted the claim. “My boss, His Excellency Mr Emeka Sibeudu is not loosing an iota of sleep about whether or not he will be running the 2014 governorship race in the state, he is essentially concerned with the discharge of his present duties as a loyal deputy governor.”

Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, a wealthy man from Osumenyi, Nnewi South council may not come out this time around because of the alleged agreement he had with the presidency recently. The Nation gathered that during his meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator Uba and other PDP chiefs in Abuja before the re-run election of the Anambra South Senatorial zone, the presidency allegedly told him and Uba to make sure the PDP won the election.

The alleged agreement The Nation gathered was that he should take the senatorial slot of the area in 2014 after the expiration of Uba’s tenure or juicy contracts from the presi-

dency.

But the Director-General of his Ikukuoma Campaign Organisation Mr. Fabian Ozoigbo, said the billionaire politician is currently serious in recovering his senatorial ticket taken away from him by INEC. The case is still before the court.

Be that as it may, the race for Obi’s seat has begun, though some people might see it as too early, but the incumbent has only 21 months to complete his tenure and the time to position for it is now.

Obi was able to defeat all comers in 2003 governorship election, which PDP smartly took away. He recovered it through the judicial process. The feat was achieved because he was the only person that started early.

However, some people believe that the new INEC operates in the same way with only a slight difference. It is just that PDP’s idea of writing the entire result in one man’s bedroom may no longer work out.

Moreover, the electorate, politicians have become wiser, hence the early preparation.

• Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun commissioning a road project at Remo North Local Government Area during his visit to the council.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

44

POLITICS

ACN slams PDP over comment Nigerians get permanent voters’ card, says INEC on Fashola’s celebration From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

L

AGOS State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) blamed the criticism of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the governor’s celebration of his days in office on ignorance.

The party accused the opposition party of afflicted by misplaced belief that it will exert nonexisting strength and acceptance with the people of the state.

In a statement, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr Joe Igbokwe, berated the PDP -led Federal Government of having nothing to show more than 12 years in the saddle. He noted that with resources of over N100 trillion it had not better the lots of the people.

He said: “Thinking it will gain relevance by denying that the ACN government in Lagos has recorded immutable milestones in its stay in power, the party advises the PDP to first go and atone to Nigerians for prosecuting the destruction of a rich and vibrant country than making ignorant statements with the hope that it will make impact in capturing Lagos is a wild dream.

“We know that in making that spurious allegation, Lagos PDP misconstrued these celebrations, which are no more than fruitful engagement with vital stakeholders in Lagos, the PDP was ruled by the belief that the celebration was tantamount to the many revelries and wild orgies the party has made of a fundamental principle of state policy since 1999.

“We want to educate them that what they are childishly labouring to criticise are meaningful forums that offers the governor an opportunity to report to select stakeholders and take their feedback.” It is understandable why such would not appeal to a party that sees power merely as opportunity to wine, dine, make

• Igbokwe

merry and share booty.

“While we insist the PDP that has excelled in ruining Nigeria these past thirteen years of unrestrained destruction, is the least qualified to talk about performance in government, we want to let Lagos PDP know that Fashola is celebrating milestones Lagosians will ever see as a golden era in the annals of the state’s history. “We want to let the PDP know that unlike their party and its so-called governments that are seized with unending profligacy, the celebration of days

by Fashola’s government are only meant as strategic engagement forums between the governor and different segments of the Lagos society.” We want to educate them that what they call celebrations are no more than sessions of strategic engagement where the government renders account

and takes important input from these critical stakeholders for the betterment of Lagos.

“In the celebration of his first 100 Days, Fashola engaged the youths, in his 900 Days, he engaged the Artisans. In his 1,000 Days, he engaged the Public Service, while in the 1,100 Days, he engaged members of the diplomatic community. In the 1,200 Days, Fashola engaged the Organised Private Sector, while in the 1,300 Days to 1,700 Days, he engaged the general public. in the 1,800 Days, he engaged the professionals and we dare say these meaningful engagements has improved transparency in the governance of Lagos.”

Igbokwe further said: “Lagos ACN wondered how the PDP, which recently exported the culture of idleness and slothfulness to Lagos by closing down the city on a busy working day for a meaningless jamboree where public fund was freely lavished, now feeling so uncomfortable about such periodic engagements, as Fashola’s celebration of his days in office . “We know that reporting back to the people does not matter to the PDP. Neither does it care about drawing input from the people to improve governance.

“We know that the Lagos PDP is struck by a credibility crisis and the complete lack of home support it enjoys in Lagos, has led it to believe that ranting ignorantly over issues it hardly understands will give it electoral currency that will engineer a miraculous takeover of Lagos. “Lagosians know so well about PDP to fall for its antics. At least the wreckage they have left in Nigeria these past thirteen years is enough to warn any person that would wish to give the PDP hemlock a second look.

We want to assure them that Lagosians are wiser to their antics.”

Govt urged to declare emergency on corruption

A

FORMER lawmaker, Mr Nduese Essien has advo cated a state of emergency on corruption in the country.

Essien made the call in Uyo when he spoke as chairman at the retreat on “Repositioning the ICPC as a Foremost agency in the anti corruption crusade.”

The former lawmaker frowned at what he called the embarrassing level of corruption, which has placed the country among the most corrupt nations in the world. He maintained that only a decisive action by the Federal Government can eradicate the scourge.

The lawmaker recounted now the two anti-corruption agencies were bound by self-imposed legal limitations which “restrict the commission to unbundling legal technicalities in courts with the consequent delay in delivery of justice, manipulation and pervasion of justice” Essien’s position was that corruption cannot be tackled successfully with kid gloves and advocated “the application of some subtle illegal acts tinted with doses of radicalism, as was the case in Ghana, China, Singapore, Argentian and Chile.”

The former Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Anti Corruption described the theme of the retreat

as appropriate but warned that the fight against corruption may remain a mirage except the various agencies like the ICPC, EFCC, Code of Conduct Bureau, among others are repositioned to tackle the corruption war.

According to him, the antigraft agencies “have in the last three years degenerated into a ‘normal’ government departments devoid of the momentum that put fright into corrupt activities between 2003 and 2007.

He said: “The current level of corruption has gone beyond the capacity of the institutional statutes establishing the commissions and the capability of financial provisions for the commissions.”

He maintained that the current attention given to the anti-corruption agencies by way of funding was grossly inadequate and will not allow for functionality anti graft bodies.

Declaring the retreat open, Governor Godswill Akpabio told the participants that his administration had brought probity and accountability to bear in delivering qualitative projects and programmes to the state.

Akpabio are recounted that is emerged was orchestrated by the overwhelming will of the people. He noted that his administration chose to channel

state resources into massive infrastructure such as roads, rural development, and tourism.

Akpabio also maintained that he was tackling corruption in the state through the free and compulsory education programme, adding he had transformed Akwa Ibom into a moral compass for good governance.

T

HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday as sured that it will distribute the permanent voters’ card to all registered voters before the next general elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving the Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mike Omeri, who led a delegation to the commission.

He said the permanent voters’ card would carry a lot of features including security chips that will make it impossible to counterfeit.

Stressing that INEC intends to conduct the 2015 elections in such a way that it will make it best election ever conducted in the history of Nigeria. He disclosed that the Commission has started the introduction of voter education in some secondary schools, adding that about 3347 schools have benefited from the scheme.

He said that the commission would continue to collaborate with NOA to educate and mobilize Nigerians on the need to take part in the election process which he described as the only legitimate means of selecting voters all over the world.

He said: “We will continue to collaborate with your agency to ensure that the electoral system gets to the position we would want it to be. We will continue to sensitize the youths to know that they should use their energy positively instead of being manipulated by over ambitious politicians who will always want to win elections at all cost”.

Speaking earlier, the Director General of NOA, Mike Omeri said that his agency was happy to partner with INEC especially in the conduct of the 2011 general elections which he described as a sharp departure from the previous ones.

Omeri tasked the electoral body to make sure that the permanent voters’ card are distributed to the voters before the election, saying this enable those who misplaced their temporary cards to have something they can use as a means of personal identification.

He urged politicians not to misguide the youths by using them as political thugs rather for positive things like advocacy, as it is done in most other civilised countries of the world.

Youths root for Oshiomhole From Osagie Otabor, Benin

• Oshiomhole

Y

OUTHS of Igbo origin re siding across the 18 local government councils in Edo State have endorsed Governor Adams Oshiomhole for a second term in office.

The youths, under the auspices of Igbo Youth Movement, said they endorsed Oshiomhole’s reelection because he is the only

governor that treats non-indigenes as indigenes of the state.

President-General of the movement, Nnandi Buruoha, expressed the group’s decision to endorse Oshimhole during the presentation of an award of excellence to the Senior Special Assistant to governor on Youth Matters, Emmanuel Yakubu.

Buruoha said their choice of Oshiomhole as next governor of the state is for the consolidation of developmental strides.

He said the appointment of youths into principal offices by Governor Oshiomhole was a clear indication that he is a governor for all people.

Responding, Yakubu said the award will spur his boss to continue in the struggle for youth empowerment.

He urged the movement not to be swayed by politics of lies of the opposition political parties.

• Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri (left) receiving a plaque from the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega, during an advocacy visit to INEC Headquarters, Abuja.

PHOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

45

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION MAY, 2012 WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second column here have applied to the High Court Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties o the deceased.

NOTICES IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) day from the date hereof.

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NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

S/N

Seriki Shakiru Akanni (Otherwise known as Seriki Sakiru Akanni) late of 50, Itire Road, Mushin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of March, 2011 Rasaq Taiwo Lawal, (Otherwise known as Oyeyisola and Mr Lawal Taiwo) late of 67, Moshalashi Street, Iponri, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of November, 2009 Mrs Onadehin Sidikat, late of 48, Awofodu Street, Bariga, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of April, 2007 at Ogun State.

Mr Edwin Iwuagwu (Otherwise known as Iwuagwu Edwin A. Sunday) late of Plot 12, Solabomi Crescent, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of March, 2009 Mr Remi Okunola (Otherwise known as Remi Okunola) late of 3, Muyiwa Olunowo Street, Egan, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13 th day of January, 1998 at Lagos.

Mrs Aderibigbe Abigael Ajitoni (Otherwise known as Aderibigbe Abigael) late of 47, Muritala Street, Off Igando Road Ikotun Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of December, 2010 at General Hospital.

Comrade Bouraimo Adedjouma (Otherwise known as Comarade Adedjouma Bourama) late of 1, Moloney Street, Ebute Metta Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of March l987 at Cotonou.

Mr Joseph Ogugua Onwodi (Otherwise known as Onwode Ogugua Joseph) late of 3, Prince Solomon Kosoko Street, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7 th day of May, 2011 at Ota, Ogun State.

Mrs Enohor Sandra Dafe Mariere (Otherwise known as Edafe Mariere Enohor Miss) late of 3, Kayode Bello Street, Igando, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of November, 2011 at Sapele.

Olatunji Isaiah Akinfemi (Otherwise known as Olatunji Femi) late of 1, Aluko Street, Sogunle, Lagos state deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of March, 2010 at Abuja Ugwuoke Cyprian late of Ajose Compound Behinde L.A. Primary School Topo Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of May, 2011 at General Hospital Enugu.

Mr Shorunke Musibau Atoda (Otherwise known as Mr Shoronke Samuel and Shoronke Samuel Musibau) late of 16, Adekoya Street, Bolade Oshodi Lagos deceased who died intestate on th 18th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

Pa Bisiriyu Bakare late of Block 402, Flat 2 Amuwo Odofin Estate Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of April, 2006 at Lagos.

Mrs Esther Olufunsho Ogunade (Otherwise known as Mrs Ogunade Esther) late of 16, Alhaji Lateef Ogunyoro Street, Unity Estate Iba deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May, 2009 at Ikorodu.

Jimoh Yahaya Alabi late of 14, Mosaku Street, Oshodi, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of January, 2012 at UCH Ibadan Adebimpe Josephine (Otherwise known as Adebimpe Josephine Olubodun) late of 21, Akinola Close, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of February, 2005 at Lagos.

Mr Oroko Olushola late of 19, Apostolic Close, Sasa Alimosho Lagos, deceased who died instate on the 19th day of August, 2011 at Lasuth Folorunsho Tajudeen (Otherwise known as Folorunso Tajudeen) late of 2, Arolawun Street, Off Kayode Onipanu Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of October, 2009 at Namibia Abimbola Mustapha Adebayo late of Block 18, Flat 8, Fetac Extention, Amuwo Odofin Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of Decemebr, 1997 at Ogun State.

Mrs Odunsi Chinyere Perppetual (Otherwise known as Mrs Odunsi Chinyere Peppetual) late of 68, Olatunde Close Off Oyatogun Oke Ira, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of September, 2011 at Lagos.

Dr.S.O. Oshuntolu (Otherwise known as Oshintolu Samuel Olayinka) late of Close 40, House 9, Satellite Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of September, 2010 at Lagos.

Mr Agboola Mathew (Otherwise known as Agboola Mattew , Mr Mattew A.O. and Mr Agboola Mattew Abidakun) late of 21, Iperu Alaesan Street, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of May, 2009 at Lagos.

Mr John Akpan Okoro late of 6, Tapa Bariga, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of September, 2007 at Lagos.

Gilbert Taiwo Sowemimo (Otherwise known as Taiwo Gilbert Sowemimo and Sowemimo Gilbert Taiwo) late of 17, Layi Oyekan Street, Mushin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13 th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

Mrs Victoria Motilola Anden Ewa late of 19, Adegbola Street, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of October, 2005 at Lagos.

Mrs Iyoha Rebecca (Otherwise known as Iyoha Rebecca (Mrs) late of 3A, Ishola Street, By Randle Avenue Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of March, 2008 at Lagos.

Mrs Asipa Jamiu Oluwaseyi late of 20, Akinbode Street, Isolo deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of April, 2011 at Lagos.

Alhaji Lasisi Ogunbode late of 6, Akinola Street, Ikorodu Road, Fadeyi Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of October, 1989 at General Hospital Lagos.

Akinsola Ganiu Ajani (Otherwise known as Akinsola Ganiyu Ajani) late of 8, Adaranijo Street, Egbeda Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5 th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

Alhaji Mufutau A. Akinola (Otherwise known as Akinola Mufutau) late of 9, Imagbe Street, Agbeda Agric Ikorodu deceased who died intestate on the 24 th day of September, 2006 at Ikorodu.

Adebayo Morufat Motunrayo (Otherwise known as Adebayo M.) late of 39, Ajara Street, Ebute Metta, Apapa Road, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of March, 2003 at Lagos.

Edward Ikechukwu Mbaogu (Otherwise known as Edward I. Mbaogu) late of 5, Etop Okoko Street, Bucknor Estate Ejigbo, Lagos deceasd who died intestate on the 4th day of May, 2009 at Benue State.

Engr. Bashir Oyedele Sadik late of 19, Ikola Road, Ikola Idimu Ipaja deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

Okoh Albert late of 43, Ifeolodun Street, Ejigbo Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of July, 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Amune Ayelafe (Otherwise known as Mr Amune Ayelate) late of Ekoro Road, Abule Egba deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of November, 2009 at Lagos.

Mr Ogboo Charles Christopher late of flat B. Room 10, Alausa Barrack Ikeja deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

Owolabi Lasisi Adila (Otherwise known as Owolabi Adila Azeez) late of 32, Alowonle Street Papa Ashafa Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of December, 2011 at Ogun State.

Eugenia Nonye Ozoigbo (Otherwise known as Mrs Nonye Ozoigbo) late of 4, Okoya Street, Coker Village Orile Iganmu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of April, 2010 at Uli Anambra State.

Wilma Gloria Okuoka late of 7, Seriki Close Alapere Ketu Lagos, deceased intestate on the 24th day of June, 2003 at London Mr Kayode Ade Salami late of 8, Atkinsonon Avenue Ikotun Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of October, 2007 at Isolo, Lagos.

Dosunmu Oluwole Adediran late of Block 43, Flat 56, LSDPC Estate, Ogba deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of September 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Nwadiko Sunday (Otherwise known as Oriaku Sunday) late of 1A Shokunbi Shasha Egbeda, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30 th day of October, 2010 at Abia State.

Makinde Olawale late of 2, Savage Lane Ebute Metta, Lagos deceasd who died intestate on the 20th day of April, 2009 at Lagos.

Okpala Ukamaka late of 93, Okemoro Street, Iyana Isashi deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of May, 2005 at Anambra State.

Akinselure Adeyela Mercy late of 4, Ileri Oluwa Crescent Jafa Agbado Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of June, 2011 at Ogun State.

Mr Jimoh Salawu late of 9, Ereke Street, Ojodu Berger Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of September, 2010 at Lagos.

Daramola Jeremiah Sunday late of 1, Oyedele Street, Odi Olowo Fadeyi Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of October, 2010 at lagos.

Egboh Moses late of 2, Egboh Street, Anthony Village Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of December, 2003 at Lagos.

Mrs Grace Melodia Esedamen (Otherwise known as Mrs Ezebamen Grace) late of No. 1 Church Street, Coker Estate, Akowonjo deceased who died intestate on the 28 th day of March, 2011 at Akowonjo Lagos.

Wosilat Olufunmilayo Fabiyi (Otherwise known as Mrs Fabiyi Wosilat Olufunmilayo) late of 17, Egbatedo Street, Papa Ashafa, Agege, Lagos who died intestate on the 2nd day of February, 2009 at Lagos.

Ibitola Grace Funmilayo late of 4B, Majiyagbe Street, Ipaja Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of February, 2010 at Kogi Mr Josaih Afolabi Ogundiran late of 4, Jabita Close, Bajulaiye Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of March, 2004 at Lagos.

Eng. Tajudeen Jibola Odumade (Otherwise known as Engr. T.J Odumade) late of AB4, Federal Low Cost Hosuing Estate, Alimosho, Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of August, 2011 at Lagos.

Mrs Oluwatoyin Fayele (Otherwise known as Olutoyin Fayele, and Fayele Elizabeth Oluwatoyin) late of 2, Shoretire Street, Alakuko, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of June, 2011 Mrs Ogwude Ruth late of 26, Ibukunolu Street, Akoka Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of September, 2008 at Lagos.

Mr Semiu Adeniyi Adebayo (Otherwise known as Adebayo Semiu Adeniyi) late of 32 Onakoya Street, Igboye Epe Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of December, 2008 at Lagos.

Adeyinka Ayinde Olowu, late of Benin City deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of November ,1960 at Ibadan.

Orere Michael late of 18, Ayilara Street, Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of January, 2011 at Lagos.

Prince Ariyo Tiamiyu Adisa (Otherwise known as Lamidi Ademola) late of 41 Road, I Close, House 1, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

Elufidipe Joseph Olufisayo (Mr) (Otherwise known as Elufidipe Joseph O. ) late of RB1, N.E.R.D.C Nig. Edu Research and Development Council Shada Abuja deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of September, 2004 at Abuja.

Mr Abu Oguns late of 8, Rasak Adebayo Street, Igesu Ayobo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of July ,2011 at Lagos.

Abudumumuni Sulaiman (Otherwise known as Abdumumuni sulaimon) late of 42, Jaiye Oba Street, Shasha, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of December, 2007 at Lagos State.

Okojere Patience Ebor (Otherwise known as Patience Nkem Ebor) late of 1, Adekoga Street, Shomolu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of January, 2012 at Lagos.

Agwulonu Celestine Anosike late of 6, Ahmed Mohammed Street, Oja Oba, Abule Egba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of January, 2011 at Lagos.

Aluko Olowofoyeku late of 40, Jakande Road, Ajah Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2 nd day of April, 2011 at Lagos.

Odunuga Adedeji late of 37/39, First Avenue Oba Adeyinka Oyekan Off Osborne Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of May, 2010 at Lagos.

Engr. Francis Chukwumah (Otherwise known as Chukwumah Francis) late of 25/27, Bolaji Banwo Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of February, 2011 at Garki Hospital Abuja.

Mr Kehinde Adeyinka Ashiru late of 10, Salami Street, Off Fadipe Street, Somolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of July,2009 at State Hospital, Ijebu Ode Ogun State.

Mr Ibeh Alexander (Otherwise known as Ibeh Alexander Oguzie Chukwu) late of 78B Clem Road, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of December, 2010 at Ogun State Adekunjo Fausat Arike Adebola (Otherwise known as Adekunjo Fausat Adebola) late of 17, Feyintola Street, Ikotun, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

Ogunleye Durosomo Christianah (Otherwise known as Ogunleye Christianah ) late of 12, Emmanuel Daodu Street, Iyana Ipaja Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16 th day of May, 2003 at Lagos.

Rasaq Ademola Dada Balogun (Otherwise known as Abdul Rasaq Tajudeen (AKA) Ademola Rasaq Sulaimon ) late of 18, Koilo Street, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of May, 2011 at King Fahd Hospital Jeddah ,Saudi Arabia.

Akinsanya Bisola Florence late of 44, Kareem Babatunde Street, Agege deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of March, 2005 at Isolo General Hospital Lagos.

Gregory Idahosa Odemwingie Asemota late of 5, Olayinka Bamgbose Street, Ikeja Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 25 th day of November, 2002 at Lagos.

Johnson Abiodun Amos (Otherwise known as Johnson Amos) late of Zinvie Ajara Badagry Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of January, 2012 at Lagos.

Chief Olanrewaju Akinkunmi Olukolu (Otherwise known as Olukolu Olanrewaju) late of 20A, Afariogun Street, Ikeja Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of April, 1995 at Lagos.

Faro Olawale Williams (Otherwise known as Waheed and Mr Faro Olawale Williams Waheed) late of 17, Alayaki Street, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of November, 2007 at Lagos.

Mr Joseph Ezeugo Ojuyenum late of 3, Temidire Street, Okoko, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of December, 2005 at Lagos.

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NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

Miss Mutiat Omotolani Seriki, Mr Afeez Omoniyi Seriki and Pastor Wale Olaogun all of 50, Itire Road, Mushin, Lagos, two of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Bilikisu Oyeyisola Lawal, Amudalat Oyeyisola both of 67, Moshalashi Street, Iponri, Lagos, and Mrs Kudirat Aderounmu of 16, Mosuro Street, Abule Ijesha, Yaba, Lagos, widow, one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Modupe Onadehin of 6, James Okiki Street, Oko Oba and Mrs Kehinde Awoyomi of 12, Muritala Street, Bariga, Lagos, one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Charity Ebere Iwuagwu and Miss Ogechi Iwuagwu both of Plot 12, Solabomi Crescent, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Iyabo Okunola and Ayo Okunola both of 3, Muyiwa Olunowo Street, Egan Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Tolulope Aderibigbe of 47, Muritala Street, Off Igando Road, Ikotun, Lagos state and Mrs Adeola Adedayo of Goshen House Ogunusi Avenue Magboro Road, Ogun State , two of the children of the said deceased.

Mr Rasaki Adedjouma of 1, Moloney Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, one of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Stella A. Onwodi, Nwanneamaka Onwodi and Onochie Onwodi all of 3, Prince Solomon Kosoko Street, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Mariere Omamode Dafe and Miss Mariere Omamuyouwi Dafe both of 3, Kayode Bello Street, Igando, Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Abigail Adejoke Olatunji and Mr Akintomide Oladapo Olatunji both of No. 1 Aluko Street, Sogunle, Lagos State widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Stella Ugwuoke and Anthony Ugwuoke both of Ajose Compound Behind L.A. Primary School Topo Badagry, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Shorunke Idayatu and Shorunke Temitope both of 16, Adekoya Street, Bolade Oshodi , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Adesola Adewoyin (Nee Bakare) of 1, Adewoyin Street, Ejigbo and Pastor Ayokunle Bakare of Block 402, Flat 2, Amuwo Odofin Estate, two of the children children of the said deceased.

Albert Adebanjo Ogunade, Joshua Oluseun Ogunade and Mary Olusola Ojo (Nee Ogunade) all of 16, Alhaji Lateef Ogunyoro Street, Unity Estate, Iba Lagos, widower and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Saheed Jimoh of 14, Masaku Street, Oshodi, Lagos, and Jimoh Suleman of 37, Bankole Oduse Street, Ikotun Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Adebimpe Adekunle and Adebimpe Adetoun both of 29, Alhaji Adebayo Street, Alapere ketu, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Funmilayo Oroko and Emmanuel Oroko both of KLM 4, Agbado Ijoko Road, Ifo Ogun , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Folorunso Olubunmi Adijat and Zainab Folorunso both of 2, Arolawun Street, Off Kayode Onipanu Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Rasheed Olalekan Abimbola of Block 18, Flat 8, Festac Town Extention Amuwo Odofin , the only surviving child of the said deceased.

Jaiyeola Odunsi and Yinka Bello both of 68, Olatunde Close, Aguda, Ogba, Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Oshintolu Olufemi of Close 40, House 9 Satellite Town, Lagos, one of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Adenike Eunice Agboola of 21, Iperu Akesan Street, Iyana Ipaja and Yisa Akintolu of 24, Opeki Road, Ipaja , widow and brother respectively of the said deceased of the said deceased.

Mrs Aniema John Akpan, Augustine John Akpan and Mercy John Akpan all of 6, Tapa Street, Bariga Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said decased.

Akinkunmi Sowemimo and Ayoola Sowemimo both of 17, Layi Oyekan Street, Mushin Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Mr Edet Andem Ewa and Dr Bassey E. Andem Ewa both of 41, Rafiu Williams Street, Surulere, two of the children of the said deceased.

Iyoha Solomon of 3A, Ishola Street, by Randle Surulere, Lagos and Dominic A. Omovbude of 65A, Brickfield Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

Waliya Jamiu and Nosiru Raimi both of 20, Akinbode Street, Isolo, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Rafat Ibironke Yusuf of 4, Olorunlogbon Street, Anthony, Wasilat Temitayo Ogunbode of 1, Ogunnaike Close, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos, Mrs Aishat Abeni Ottun of 10, Iyiola Lawale Street, Akoka and Mr Ahmed Olabode Ogunbode of 6, Akinola Street, Fadeyi Lagos, four children of the said deceased.

Lateef Akinsola and Musibau Akinsola both of 8, Adaranijo Street, Egbeda, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Shadiat Akinola of 9, Imagbe Street, Agbede Agric Ikorodu, Akinola Ibrahim Akinola Raheem and Akinola Rasheedo all of 2, Irawo Close, Onigbongbo Maryland Lagos, widow, two of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Olatunbosun Abosede Mary of 3, Sojebe Compound Agbowa Ikosi Epe Lagos, the only surviving child of the said deceased.

Mr Chidi Kingsley Mbaogu and Mrs Faith Nkiruka Eneomebi (Nee Mbaogu) both of 5, Etop Okoko Street, Bucknor Estate, Ejigbo, two children of the said deceased.

Mrs Edith Amope Sadike, Mr Ayodele Sadik, Mr Oladele Sadik and Miss Taiwo Sadik all of 19, Ikola Road, Ikola Via Ipaja Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively fo the said deceased.

Okoh Kate Ifeoma and Okolanta Chinyere both of 43, Ifelodun Street, Ejigbo , Lagos, widow and sister respectively fo the said deceased.

Amune Timiniye, Amune Gabriel and Ekuromonoa E. Ebikeniye all of Ekoro Road, Abule Egba, Lagos, widow , only child and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Ogboo Helen Ngozi and Ogboo Collins Obinna both of Flat B, Room 10, Alausa barrack Ikeja widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Rabiat Owolabi and Ismaila Owolabi both of 32, Alowonle Street, Papa Ashafa Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Obina Ozoigbo and Mrs Christiana Madukaiwe both of 97, Adetola Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Keith Okuoka and Yasmin Isegbohi both of 7, Seriki Close, Alapere Ketu, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Alhaja Fatimoh K. Salami and Kafayat Adetutu Salami both of 8, Atkinson Avenue Ikotun Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Dosunmu Lucia Morolake and Dosunmu Adetunji Adelaja both of Block 43, Flat 56, LSDPC Estate, Ogba, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Gerginia Oriaku and Ndubuisi Adindu Oriaku Nwaduiko both of 1A, Sokunbi Shasha Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Gbenga Makinde and Segun Makinde both of 2, Savage lane Ebute Metta, Lagos two of the children of the said deceased.

Ikechukwu Okpala and Mary Okpala both of 93, Okemoro Street, Iyana Ishasi Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Rufus Olaniyi Akinselure and Mary Olubukola Akinselure both of 4, Ileri Oluwa Crescent, Jafa Agbado , widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Jimoh Toyin and Jimoh Rafiu Alaba both of 9, Ereke Street, Ojodu Berger , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Daramola Kayode and Daramola Mayokun both of 1, Oyedele Street, Odi Olowo Fadeyi , Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mr Egboh Jerry Chidi and Miss Egboh Lauretta both of 2, Egboh Street, Anthony Village Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Clement Eromon Esebamen and Kelly Esebamen both of No. 1, Church Street, Coker Estate Akowonjo Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Ibrahim Temitope Fabiyi, Abdullahi Fabiyi and Nurudeen Fabiyi all of 17, Egbatedo Street, papa Ashafa, Agege, Lagos, three children of the said deceased.

Ibitola Gabriel Ade and Engr. Ibitola David both of 4, Majiyagbe Street, Ipaja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Johnson Olajide Ogundiran and Adenike Aderayo Diyaolu both of 4, Jabita Close, Bajulaiye Shomolu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Shakirat Omotayo Odumade and Mr Afolabi Odumade both of AB4, Federal Low Cost Housing Estate, Alimosho Ipaja Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Oluwaseyi Deborah Fayele, Temitope Okeyode (Mrs), Muyiwa Fayele and Modupe Owoyeni (Mrs) all of 2, Shoretire Street, Alakuko, Lagos, four children of the said deceased.

Ogwude Aki Henry , Uzoma Isiuwu and R.C. Nwamordi all of 26, Ibukunolu Street, Akoka, Lagos, widower , uncle and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Afusat Adebayo and Samsideen Adebayo both of 32, Onakoya Street,Igboye Epe Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Olabowale Aremu and Babatunde Olatokunbo Olowu both of 4, Wire Lane , Benin City , sons of the said deceased.

Mrs Abigail Orere and Master Belief Orere both of 18, Ayilara Street, Ojo, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Ariyo Bolanle, Chinedu Bamidele , Ariyo Mojisola and Ariyo Modupe Adeola all of 41 Road I Close, House 1, Festac, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively fothe said deceased.

Elufidipe Temidayo A. (Mrs) and Elufidipe Damilola O. both of Block 19, Flat 20, Unilag Estate, Elepe Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Eunice Yemisi Oguns, Miss Dupe Oguns and Mr Samuel Oguns all of 8, Rasak Adebayo Street, Igesu Ayobo Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Rukayat Abdumumuni and Abdulai Abdumumuni both of 42, Jaiye Oba Street, Shasha, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Lucky Ebor Okojere and Julius Ebor both of 1, Adekoga Street, Somolu, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Agwulonu Anthonia C, Agwulonu Ugonna E. and Agwulonu Sheila U. all of 6, Ahmed Mohammed Street, Oja Oba Abule Egba , Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Lateef Musibau Olowofoyeku and Morufu Ishola Olowofoyeku both of 40, Jakande Road, Ajah Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Owolabi Odunuga and Adetutu Odunuga both of First Avenue, Oba Adeyinka Oyekan Off Osborne Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Gloria M. Chukwumah and Miss Theresa Chukwumah both of 25/27, Bolaji Banwo Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Mutiat Omoyeni Ashiru, Mrs Hussainat Taiwo Ashiru and Mr Akeem Ademuyiwa Ashiru all of 10, Salami Street, Off Fadipe Street, Somolu, Lagos, two widows and one of the children respectively fo the said deceased.

Mrs Mabel Ibeh and Mrs Nkiruka C. Oyebola both of 78B, Clem Road, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Adekunjo Fausat Arike and Adekunjo Mudirat both of 1, Adekunjo Street, Egbe Lagos, two sisters of the said deceased.

Mr Israel Olusanmi O. and Olusanmi Olamide A. both of 12, Emmanuel Daodu Street, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Bilikis Abiodun Balogun of Block 79, Flat 5, Phase 4, Adeniji Adele Housing Estate, and Mrs Sidikat Ajobi Giwa of 102, Okepopo Street, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Abayomi Akinsanya and Ibikunle Ajayi both of 4, Osho Street, Shomolu, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Ms Bola Janet Asemota and Ms Ann Asemota both of 5, Olayinka Bamgbose Street, Ikeja, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Hannah Johnson and Samuel S. Johnson both of Zinvie Ajara Badagry Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Mosunmola Olukolu of 20A, Afariogun Street, Ikeja, Lagos, Mrs Jumoke Kappo of 5, Olugbesan Close, Ikeja and Dr Idowu Olukolu of 8, Olugbesan Close Ikeja, widow, sister and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Bode Faro and Laide Okoogua (Mrs) both of 17, Alayaki Street, Surulere, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Ambrose Chukwudi Ojuyenum, Dr Patrick Chibundu Ojuyenum, Mr Emeke Kingsley Ojuyenum and Mr Eric Nduka Ojuyenum all of 3, Temidire Street, Okokomaiko, Lagos, four children of the said deceased.

G.A SAFARI (EQS.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

46

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

48

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

Dr. Deacon Charles Ikomi is not against stepping aside, but wants the process to be thorough, peaceful and not influenced by anybody outside the community

D

OZENS of women from oilrich Ugbege community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State have staged a protest against the President-General of the community, Chief Charles Ikomi. The community leader has been in office for 14 years.

A statement signed by the aggrieved women leaders from the various branches of the Agura Ugbege Erun Women, said, “We the good women of Ugbege decided not to keep quiet against the acts being perpetrated by Chief Charles Ikomi against our homeland in the last 14 years.”

The women lamented that there has been no visible development in the community since the President-General assumed office, even though he also managed to exceed the maximum two tenures of eight years.

According to Mrs. Queen Batsone, who read the text of the press conference, the last straw was the alleged manipulation of the constitution to pave the way for a possible manipulation of the process that would produce Ikomi’s successor.

The document signed by Dupe Mene, Alice Omariri, Grace Asadii and Stella Gbiaye, among others representing Ode-Itsekiri, Sapele, Warri and Lagos branches, demanded a peaceful and transparent change of leadership.

They claimed that a constitution drafting committee led by Mr. Frank Ogbemi, which had completed the task was not allowed to present the final draft of the constitution, which would have paved the way for a breath of life for the community.

Rather, they claimed that Chief •Continued from Page 17 trial in the various prisons in the state. She appealed for quicker dispensation of justice so inmates would know their fate when in custody rather than waste precious years awaiting trial.

She commended the Onitsha Deputy Comptroller, Mr Tony Ubabike for his commitment to his duties and the inmates, culminating in the cleanliness of the prison, health of the inmates and the cordial relationship between prison staff and their charges.

Ubabike in his remarks attributed the discipline among inmates in Onitsha to the reformation being given them but regretted that the prison is congested. He appealed

•The protesters

Warri women protest community’s leadership From Shola O’Neil, Warri

Ikomi “doctored a constitution” that vested powers on the President-General to appoint the elders, trustees and key officials of an executive council without an election. They said they

want “election and not selection.”

Consequently, the statement said, “We have had enough of Chief Charles Ikomi and call for his immediate resignation and we also call for a constitutional conference to adopt a new constitution, which was duly commissioned at a general meeting

held in Warri in March, 2010.”

Although Chief Ikomi could not be reached for comments, one of his supporters said Ikomi is a man of God and believes in due process, nor would he do anything to hurt his people.

“Dr. Deacon Charles Ikomi is not

against stepping aside, but wants the process to be thorough, peaceful and not influenced by anybody outside the community,” the source said.

He added that the embattled PG, said Chief Ikomi was prepared to hand over the community’s leadership to his Vice Chairman.

Vocational skills for prison inmates for an 18-seater bus to enable them attend court sessions to facilitate their release from custody. Awka and Onitsha prisons are said to stand out hygiene as well as in embracing the skill acquisition programme.

The prisoners commended Obi’s wife and the team for the visit and all their support, especially donating the skill acquisition equipment.

They regretted, however, that some of them have been abandoned and have stayed more years than would have been in prison if convicted.

One of the inmates sewed a piece of cloth for Governor Obi, a job that

•The visiting team and prison officials with donated foodstuff

was quite commended.

At Aguata, the governor’s wife was told that the prison is in need of vehicles, alternative water sources. Mrs Peter-Obi was accompanied by Dr Ego Uzoezie and her team from the ministry led by Mrs. Rose Udeagbara. Mrs Obi appealed that Awka and Onitsha prisons should be decongested, adding that some inmates be transferred to Aguata prisons without further delay.

She donated the sum of N500,000 for the purchase of machines for a vocational centre, and more cash for the upkeep of the prison. She also

donated beverages, disinfectants and foodstuff.

Mrs Obi noted that the tortuous road she plied to the prison at Ekwulobia convinced her of the importance of the vehicles its authorities requested.

Mrs Obi assured the inmates that God has not forgotten them as He would shower His mercy on them.

She added that the state government cares about them. She lauded the spokesperson of the inmates, Ifeanyi Ikom who read an address in flawless English. She had a warm handshake with the young man.

The Women Affairs and Social Development Commissioner said: “I am impressed that vocational equipments this government donated to the prisons especially Onitsha prison are being utilised for the purposes they were donated’’.

She prayed that justice dispensation would be quicker and assured them that the Obi administration will look into their requests. On behalf of the state government, she gave them N100, 000 to for the upkeep of the Awka prison. Foodstuff, beverages worth several thousands of naira were also donated as well as cooked food stored in warmers.

The same gesture was repeated at Onitsha prison.

Officer-in-Charge of Awka Prison, DCP A. U. Chigbata said the prison visit was the first by a sitting governor. He said the prison was established in 1904. He said 80 per cent of Awka prison inmates have learnt tailoring, carpentry and barbing, adding that electrical and welding workshops would soon be functional.

Chigbata said an adult literacy class was opened with the assist-

ance of Prof Mrs. Victoria Dike of University of Nigeria, Nsukka and that negotiations are on with examination bodies and relevant state ministries to accredit the school and make it examination centre. He added that non-governmental organisations, private individuals and churches have also partnered with the prison.

Director of Social Welfare and Development in charge of such visits in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Rose Udeagbara expressed gratitude for the way Governor Obi and his wife view life and render assistance to the needy. She expressed happiness at the way Commissioner Uzoezie is steering the affairs of the ministry.

The state CLO under the leadership of Comrade Aloysius Attah appealed: “It is now imperative for the federal government to declare an emergency on the situation in Nigerian prisons. The prison system, we reckon, should be a reformatory and rehabilitation centre. The present trend of keeping inmates incarcerated for many years without formal conviction or discharge is producing opposite results as most inmates end up traumatised and hardened.

“We commend the Chief Judge of Anambra State for the bold efforts he made in the two exercises to free inmates remanded on frivolous reasons and how he chided some police prosecutors engaged in the unholy remand game.”

“We call for more routine visits (at least once a month) for jail delivery exercise by the Chief Judge instead of the traditional once in a year ritual.”

49

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

COMMENTARY

I

NFORMATION is power. It can make or mar. An informer must be informed. He must know what information to disseminate. He must know, not only when and where to disseminate such information but also how to do it. These are the qualities that make journalists professionals in their calling.Journalism as a profession is not about news gathering and news reporting alone. It is also about education guidance, reasonable entertainment and competent management of both.

That is why a journalist is perceived as a professional who knows or should know something about everything. To be a thorough professional, a journalist must be an all rounder in various fields of discipline.

He cannot report space exploration of the space without some scientific knowledge of astronomy. He cannot report war without some knowledge of weaponry and the geography of the war areas as well as the social history of the warring groups or nations. Neither can he report a religious festival or ritual without knowing some jargons of the religion in question. And, of course, in the process of filing his reports, a journalist must be conscious of the technical sequence to be followed. This is generally known in the profession as ‘five W’s and H’. The coded cliché here is interpreted as follows: “Who (does) What?

Where? When? Why? And How?” Without practical knowledge of that sequence, a journalist cannot be worth his professional name. Then, there is the professional norm of ‘Inverted Pyramid’ which compels the reporter to start his report with the most important aspect of the story so that the reader will know from the very first paragraph the main gist of the story contents. It is mostly from such aspect that the headline of the story is often cast.

From whatever angle journalism is viewed, knowledge remains the main axis around which journalists’ activities rotate.

In a nutshell, no ignorant person can be accommodated in the noble profession called journalism. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) had probably foreseen this before he recommended the seeking of knowledge to his disciples. He said: “Seek knowledge even if you have to travel to China”.

Nothing in the life of man is comparable to knowledge. As a matter of fact, life is worthwhile only if it is based on knowledge.That was why the revelation of the Qur’an started on the premise of knowledge. The very first chapter of that Sacred Book commenced thus: “Read in the name of your Lord who created; He created man from clots of congealed blood. Read! Your Lord is the Most Bountiful One, who taught by the pen, (He) taught man what he (man) did not know…” And, to further emphasise this, the Prophet said that “knowledge is missing in the life of man, Muslims should search for it wherever they can find it”.

He did not restrict such knowledge to religion. Contrary to the falsehood documented and disseminated by the Western world that journalism started in Germany in the 15th century, it was the Muslims who actually started journalism in Arabia about 1,400 years ago. Though they did not call it journalism, it was they who started what we now call journalism through the process they followed in documenting Hadith (the tradition and rightly guided statements of Prophet Muhammad). In order to prevent false documentation of any fabricated state-

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

Islam and Nigerian media

• President Goodluck Jonathan ments in the name of the Prophet, some Muslim researchers took up the task of ascertaining what the Prophet actually said or did as against what some prominenceseekers were trying to attribute to him. It was a thorough investigative job voluntarily done by certain individuals to retain the authenticity of Islam.

Foremost among such great researchers were Abu Hurayrah, Ibn Abbas, Ibn Mas’ud, Ibn Malik, Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Daud, At-Tirmidhi, An-Nisai, Ibn Majah and a host of others. For the purpose of authenticity, these great scholars introduced what they called ‘Chain of Narration’ (Isnad). Through that Chain, they were able to trace the source of every reported Hadith to the Prophet who was quoted to have expressed it. Such narrations were graded as: Sahih (indisputably genuine); Hasan (authentic); Hasanun Sahih (genuine and authentic); Munqat’ (broken); Garib (strange) and so forth.

Thus, from the final documentation through this process, Hadith was transmitted from generation to generation just as we transmit news stories today in journalism profession. Without the great effort of those researchers, the world would have been flooded today with all sorts of fabricated expressions credited to the Prophet.

‘Both Islam and Christianity came to meet people here in Nigeria as non-adherents.

Why must we use them to destroy ourselves on the pages of newspapers or on the radio or television?’

And such fabrications would have thrown the Muslim Ummah into total confusion.

However, when journalism as we know it today was introduced to Nigeria in the dawn of the 20th century, it was through the perception and mentality of the colonial masters. Although the early Nigerian journalists were quick to realise the power of the Press which they used to fight for Nigerian independence, they nevertheless inherited some colonial traditions which are still causing disharmony in our society today. One of such traditions is religious perception. For instance, an average non-Muslim Nigerian journalist does not see anything positive in Islam as a religion because he/she is blatantly ignorant of its tenets. Not that journalists cannot understand Islam if given the opportunity and shows interest, but the colonial tradition they inherited is such that they must not see anything good in any religion other than Christianity. And for this reason they had to follow the colonial Orientalists in reporting Islam and the Muslims according to the latter’s perception until very recently when that perception began to change in the West where it originated from. For well over a century after the introduction of journalism to Nigeria, the words ‘ISLAM and MUS-

LIMS’ were reported in Nigerian media, like in European media, as ‘Mohammedanism and Mohammedans’ respectively.

It took the few knowledgeable Muslims in Europe at that time to counter that obnoxious imposition before it was changed.

And, even as of today, most Nigerian journalists take pleasure in writing or pronouncing ‘MOSLEM’ rather than ‘MUSLIM’ knowing full well that the earlier is derogatory and abhorrent to Muslims especially when there is no letter ‘E’ in Arabic language.In news reporting and even editorials of many national newspapers, some Nigerian journalists have ridiculously embarrassed themselves and their publishing houses as well as their Muslim readers by confusing Eidul Adha with Eidul Fitr during Muslim festivals out of deliberate refusal to want to know anything about Islam. No Muslim journalist will ever be so adamant on ignorance as to confuse Christmas with Easter. Another instance is the seeming malicious manner in which some journalists do report the outbreak of events and occurrences in the country particularly at very sensitive times thereby compounding any problem at hand. For instance, it has virtually become a tradition in Nigerian media to describe youths who engage in any disturbing activities in the north as ‘FANATICS’ or ‘FUNDAMENTALISTS’ or ‘ZEALOTS’ even before the details of whatever might have happened become known. And in other parts of the country, such restive youths are merely reported as militants or miscreants to dichotomise if psychologically between Muslims and non-Muslims with a view to subjecting the former to tendentious subjugation and ridicule while the latter is invariably deemed right. The implication here is that any disturbance in an area dominated by Muslims must automatically be painted in the colour of Islamic religion which is surreptitiously perceived as the breeder of religious fanaticism. These and other religiously insensitive reporting can be potentially dangerous for the corporate existence of this volatile country. Nigeria had witnessed crises precipitated by such insensitivity in the remote and recent past.

Since no journalist is officially trained as Muslim or Christian professional, those who happen to be Muslims in the profession must have good knowledge of Christianity and the culture of its adherents just as journalist with Christian background must know the dos and don’ts of Islam and the Muslims and accord both the deserved respect. Arabic is not a language meant for the Muslims alone. There are Christian Arabs who speak no language other than Arabic. And, there is no record anywhere to show that Prophet Isa (Jesus) ever spoke English language which now becomes the language of the Bible in Nigeria. Both Islam and Christianity came to meet people here in Nigeria as nonadherents. Why must we use them to destroy ourselves on the pages of newspapers or on the radio or television? One of the responsibilities of the media is to ventilate a peaceful atmosphere for harmonious co-existence of the people. Thus, as highly educated and civilised professionals, Nigerian journalists must not shirk such a fundamental responsibility at this age of the internet. For the sake of our collective survival, no combative or provocative journalism should be extended to religious sphere.

NEWS Dangote, Assembly condole with Oshiomhole

P

RESIDENT of Dangote Conglomerate Aliko Dangote has described Governor Adams Oshiomhole as a great asset not only to Edo State but to Nigeria.

Dangote spoke yesterday when he visited the governor to condole with him on the death of three reporters in his convoy last weekend.

The business mogul, who spoke on the heels of a similar visit by members of the House of Assembly, said: “The grace of the Almighty God will continue to protect you.

“If you do something good here, it will affect the neighbouring states.

“You are a great asset to Nigeria and we pray that God will never allow it to happen again and may God give eternal

‘Keep Amaechi’s vision alive’

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

repose to those who died.”

Oshiomhole, who narrated the incident, said it could have been worse.

According to him, “it could have been worse if the truck had hit my vehicle. We are all equal before God. It would have created a lot of confusion in this part of this country. We realise when God has allowed something we have to concede no matter how painful”.

He noted that the incident was a big shock to him, noting as believers “we do not question the will of God.” Speaker Uyi Igbe said: “We share in your pain. God will give you the fortitude to bear the loss and God will console the families of the bereaved.”

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

•Amaechi

T

HE management of the Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency (RSSDA) has been told to keep the

vision of Governor Rotimi Amaechi alive.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Leyii Kwanee, said this yesterday at Bori, the seat of Khana Local Government.

Kwanee, who represents Khana 2, inspected the newly-built Workmanship and Technical Training Centre (WTTC) at Bori, by the Managing Director of RSSDA, Noble Pepple.

The deputy speaker said he was impressed with the facilities provided for skills’ acquisition for the unemployed.

He lauded the agency’s management for the plans to improve the standard of living of the people.

50

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION MAY, 2012 WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second column here have applied to the High Court Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties o the deceased.

NOTICES IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) day from the date hereof.

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NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

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Isaac Abayomi Kuyinu (Otherwise known as Isaac Abayomi Adeyemi Kuyinu) late of 10, Alli Street, Ijegun Road, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of March, 1984 at Lagos.

Kalejaiye Adelaiye Ibidun (Otherwise known as Ibidun Adelaide Kalejaye) late of 4, Alhaji Shomade Alley Obanikoro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of October, 1989 at Lagos.

Moses Agada (Otherwise known as Bamidele and Sgt.Moses Agada) late of 15, Ajobiare Street, Igando Road, Ikotun Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of October, 2010 at Lagos.

Lawal Balajoko O. late of Block 1, Flat 2, Abesan Estate, Lagos state deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

Alhaja Nuratu Fadeke Bakare late of 19, Opebi Road, Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

Mogaji Shakirudeen Kolawole late of 37, Okeoloruntedo Street, Ijesha Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of August, 2009 at Lagos.

Miss Egbo Gladys (Otherwise known as Egbo Gladys Ndidi) late of 11, Aderemi Adebayo Street, Okeira Ogba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of January, 2011 at Lagos.

Idowu Akinola A. (Otherwise known as Akinola Idowu) late of 10, Ladipo Ajayi Street, Alagbado, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of November, 2008 at Nigeria Army Hospital Yaba.

Mr Saminu Anjorin Kosewon (Otherwise known as Kosewon Saminu Anjorin) late of Oke Oyinbo Compound, Igbesa Badagry Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of December, 2002 at Ebute Metta, Lagos State.

Erinoso Comfort Olubunmi (Otherwise known as Erinoso Olubunmi Comfort) late of 15, Tunde Oginni Crescent, Meiran, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of June, 2006 at Lagos.

Ehichoya Okoegwale late of 6, Muslim Avenue, Unity Estate, Egbeda, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of April, 2010 at Lagos.

Chief Emmanuel Oborakponovwe Onosiem (Jnr) (Otherwise known as Emmanuel Onosiem) late of 15, Ibironke Crescent, Maryland Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd dya of September, 2010 at La General Hospital.

Jacob Kolawole Taiwo late of 19, Adeyemi Street, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of August, 2001 at Lagos.

Chief Iloka Obi late of 24, Mba Street, Ajegunle Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of October, 2005 at Lagos.

Akibu Ishola Onadeko late of 3, Temidire Close, Owutu , Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of April, 2009 at Lagos.

Mr Olagbaiye Adeolu Sola-Ayo (Otherwise known as Sola Olagbaiye) late of No. 5, Makinde Street, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of May, 2011 at Eko Hospital, Ikeja.

Mr Ajegbomogun Sunday James (Otherwise known as Adegbomogun Sunday James) late of 95, Bello Street, Ajasa Command Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of October, 2006 at Lasuth Ikeja, Lagos.

Mr Godfrey Kpodo (MWO RTD) (Otherwise known as MWO Kpodo Godfrey (RETD) late of 5th Avenue 512 Road A Close, Block 5, Flat 7, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of March, 2011.

Kenneth C. Ugoala Onyedinefu (Otherwise known as Mr Kenneth C. Ugoala) late of 24, Iludun Street, Amukoko, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23 rd day of January, 2009 at Lagos.

Mrs Funmilayo Oderinde late of No. 19, Barracks Road, Igbogbo Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of May, 2011 at Dele Medical Centre Ikorodu.

Mrs Alakanse Mary late of Plot 412 House 2 Tanwa Abudu Close,Jibowu Estate Abule Egba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Matthew Adewole Adamaigbo (Otherwise known as Adamaigbo Matthew Adewole) late of 3, Ogunfowoke Crescent Alagbole Akute, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of May, 2011 at Benin Ore Road, Ondo State.

Ariyibi Oke Funke (Otherwise known as Ariyibioke Funke) late of 2, Alausa Compound Street, Bolade Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of March, 2011.

Mr Nworie Uchenna late of 1, Wajero Street, owode Ibeshe Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of January, 2012 at Ikorodu, Lagos.

Mr Awotu Young Okorodudu late of 2, Kunle Dipo Drive Ogolonto Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

Vincent Olatunde Marcus (Otherwise known as Marcus Vincent Olatunde) late of 56, Diya Street, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of July, 2010 at Lagos.

Palmer Roland Utele (Otherwise known as Roland Utele O.) late of Block 25, Flat 2 LSDPC Housing Estate, Omole Phase 1, Ojodu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of March, 2010 at General Hospital Ekpem Delta State.

Ogunpola Olugbenga Oludare (Otherwise known as Ogunpola Olugbenga) late of BA38, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of June, 2007 at Lagos.

Mr Muili Adegboyega Salami (Otherwise known as Salami Muili) late of 5, Bode Thomas Street, Plamgrove Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of may, 2000 at University College Hospital, Ibadan.

Obafunmilayo Opeyemi Clement late of 14, George Fagbore Close Owode Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of July, 2011 at Magboro Owode.

Chogudo Adeniyi Enebe late of 5, Oluwakemi Street, Shasha, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of July, 2010 at Lagos.

Mr Akor Joseph late of 23, Anthony Obe Street, Ewutuntun Mafoluku Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of September, 2011 at Jericho Hospital Lagos. State.

Wosilat Gambari (Otherwise known as Jamiu Wosilat Alake) late of 11A Tejuosho Street, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20 th day of November, 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Charles Ukommadu (Otherwise known as Charles Okey Ukommadu) late of 47, Poople Street, Shomolu, Bariga, Lagos. deceased who died intestate on the 26 th day of December, 2009.

Mr Edward Torulolo late of Block 3, Room 13, Churchill Police Barrack, Apapa, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of August, 2010 at Abia State.

Mr Semiu Onasanya late of 55, Western Avenue Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of June, 2005 at Lagos.

Miss Elizabeth Iyabo Ayayi late of 20, Lewis Street, Sandgrose, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of October, 1986 at Lagos.

Alase Oluseye Adefeyisara late of Plot 4, Kola Lawal Close, Off Akibu Adeniyi Street, Jankara Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of January, 2008.

Mrs Balogun Ajarat Abeni late of 9B, Allen Road, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of September, 2009 at Lagos.

Mr Benjamine Chukwuma Ibegbunam (Otherwise known as Ibegbunam Benjamine Chukwuma) late of 5, Ifelodun Close, Coker Village Orile Iganmu Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of April, 2010 at Nauth, Nnewi Anambra State.

Oyetubo Owolabi (Otherwise known as Oyetubo Owolabi Samuel) late of 35, St. Finbarr’s College Road, Akoka Yaba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of August, 2010.

Deaconess Anike Ojo (Otherwise known as Deaconess Lydia Anike Ojo and Anike Ojo) late of 8, Ali Lane Onipanu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25 th day of May, 2011 at Ikeja General Hospital Lagos.

Mr John Omolade Osho (Otherwise known as Osho John Omolade) late of No. 16, Owojodun Street, Ijegun Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16 th day of August, 2006.

Mr Seidina Morufu (Otherwise known as Seidina Moruf) late of No. 9, Balogun Adenubosi Street, Epe Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 28 th day of March, 2011 at Epe, Lagos State.

Bello Saheed (Otherwise known as Bello Saheed O.) late of No. 13, Ayo Alabi Street, Oke Ira Ogba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of December, 2011 at Lasuth.

Alhaji Ashafa Abisogun Allison (Otherwise known as Ashafa Abisogun Allison) late of 12, Ajoke Oduyebo Street, Behind Sabo Market Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of February, 2009.

Mrs Odukoya Fausat Omolade late of 1, Hunyekoh Close Idale Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of September, 2007 at Ascon Health Service Centre Mr Unini Michael (Otherwise known as Micheal Okeychukwu Unini and Unini Michael) late of 18, Johnson Street, Cement Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of May, 2010 at Lagos.

John Adebayo Labinjo late of 9, Curtis Adeniyi Jones Close Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20 th day of August, 1992 at Lagos.

Oyebowale Karimu late of 8, Araromi Street, Onitiri Village Sabo Yaba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of January, 1959 at Lagos.

Richard Akanimo (Otherwise known as Idem Akanimo Richard) late of Close 53, House 5, Satellite Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of March, 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Adeshina M. Fatoyinbo late of 2, Oladiti Street, Ilupeju Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

Iwuchukwu Williams C. (Otherwise known as Iwuchukwu Williams) late of 85, Oshola Street, Ifako Agege, Lagos,deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of September, 2011 at Lasuth Ikeja.

Shoda Muinat late of 2, Adetunji Adegbite Street, Ogudu Ojota, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20 th day of August, 2011 at Ogun State.

Izebuno Omosimua Ikpemi late of 22, Adekuoroye Street, Ejigbo, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of March, 2011 Mrs Sekinat Oluyemisi Elegba (Otherwise known as Mrs Yemisi Elegba) late of 38, Remi Odungbori Street, Alagbado Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of February, 2011 at Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

Ogunsola Kudirat Amope (Otherwise known as Kudirat Amope Ogunsola) late of 3, Ogunsola Street, new Oko Oba Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of October, 2009 at Lagos.

Mr Oyelami Kayode (Otherwise known as Oyelami Kayode Oyebanji) late of 2, Adegboola Street, Alakuko, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of January, 2010 at Ilorin.

Ugwuanyi John (Otherwise known as Ugwanyi John and John Ugwuanyi) late of 30, Mission Road, Shagari Estate, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of October, 2011 at General Hospital ,Enugu –Ezike Mr Okon Jonathan, late of 11, Shomide Street, Idimangoro Agege, Lagos.deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of July, 2004 at Lagos.

Chief Samuel Abiola Olasoji late of 4, Adegoke Street, Iloro Ile Ife Osun State deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of January, 2009 at Osun State.

Mr Obah Desmond Zosi (Otherwise known as Zosi O. D.) late of 16, Kasumu Street, Oke Koto, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of April, 2007 at Yola.

Barr. Fedinard Onyia late of 8, Mounogoro Close, Akute Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

Chief Michael Okon Nsa Ani, late of 6, Olatunde Close, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of December, 1985 at Lagos.

Mrs Susanna Ebbah (Otherwise known as Ebbah Susannah) late of 57, Akeju Street, Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of August, 2009 at Lasuth Lagos.

William Efejuku (Otherwise known as Efejuku William) late of Block 279, Flat 4, Amuwo Odofin Estate, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May, 2007 at Lasuth.

Mr Oyebamiji Tunde Moshood Atanda (Otherwise known as Moshood Atanda Oyebamiji and Mr Babatunde Oyebamiji Atanda) late of 3rd Ave. Rd 3D H8 Odogunyan Road, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of October, 2008 at Odogunyan.

Pa Michael Adedeinbo Onabule late of 9, Oduwobi Street, Ilupeju Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of October, 1970 at Lagos.

Miss Oyedepo Rebecca, late of 50, Tapa Road, Isawo Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of July 2008 at General Hospital, Ikorodu.

Oleh Dickson , late of 173, Itire Road, Ilogbo, Ajangbadi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of January, 2011 at Badagry.

Mrs Aina Ruth, late of Block 143, Flat 5, L.B.I. C. Low Cost Alaka Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Damian Innocent Udeogu (Otherwise known as Damian I. Udeogu) late of D. 30, Flat 2, Faan Quarters Ikeja Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May 2008 at Lagos.

Mr Ajeigbe Moshood, late of 26, Okeho Street, Dopemu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of April, 2010 at Lagos.

Mr Emmanuel Owuta (Otherwise known as Owuta Emmanuel) late of 83, Akerele Street, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of October, 2011 at Luth.

Olajunwon Afolabi Felix (Otherwise known as Mr Afolabi Olajuwon) late of 36, Owolewa Street, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21 st day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

Mr Dominic Ekwenugo (Otherwise known as Mr Dominic “D” Ekwenugo) late of 321, Rd B Close, House 6, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27 th day of March, 2011 at Lagos.

Phillips Ogungbenle (Otherwise known as Ogungbenle Phillips) late of Block 214, Flat 1, Housing Estate, Amuwo Odofin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of February, 2009 at Lagos.

Madam Emily Oyinniola Olokun late of 33, Durojaiye Street, Lawanson , Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11 th day of September, 2008 at Lagos.

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NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

Mrs Elizabeth Moronke Kuyinu, Samson Mobolaji Kuyinu, Kolade Kuyinu and Tunde Kuyinu all of 10, Alli Street, Ijegun Road, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Elizabeth Kalejaiye Kuyinu, Mrs Atinuke Karimu, Mr Samuel Olatunji Kalejaiye and Mr Joseph Adeyemi Kalejaiye all of 4, Alhaji Shomade Street, Obanikoro Off Ikorodu Road, Lagos four children of the said deceased.

Paulina Agada and Monday Agada both of 15, Ajobiare Street, Igando Road, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Olayinka Obafemi Lawal of Block 1, Flat 2, Abesan Housing Estate, Lagos the only child of the said deceased.

Chief Olayiwola Bakare and Mr Akinyemi Oladipo Bakare both of 19, Opebi Road, Ikeja Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Saheed Mogaji and Samsondeen Mogaji both fo 37, Okeoloruntedo Street, Ijesha Surulere, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Fidel Umora Egbo, Jude Egbo and Mr Obinna Egbo all of 11, Aderemi Adebayo Street, Okeira, Ogba, Lagos, mother and two brothers respectively of the said deceased.

Folashade Aderinoye and Oluwatobi Idowu both of 20B, Tunji Ladipo Street, Idimu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Miss Basirat Idowu Kosewon, Mr Jabar Olawale Kosewon, Miss Aminat Abidemi Kosewon and Mrs Moriam Titilayo Amusa all of Oke Oyinbo Compound Igbesa, Badagry Lagos, state four of the children of the said deceased.

Erinoso Olutayo Adebare and Erinoso Olutope Olayinka both of 15, Tunde Oginni crescent, Meiran , Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Mrs Agness Ehichoya and Solomon Ehichoya both of No. 6, Muslim Avenue Unity Estate, Egbeda, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Annie Onosiem, Mrs Norma Onosiem and Gregory Benedict all of 15, Ibironke Crescent, Meiran, Lagos State, widow, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Anike Aremu of 19, Adeyemi Street, Mushin, Lagos, sister of the said deceased.

Mrs Ifeoma Agboli and Ezinwa Obi Iloka both of 24, Mba Street, Ajegunle, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Idayat Remi Onadeko and Temitope Onadeko both of 3, Temidire Close, Owutu Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Olagbaiye Oluwaseyi Oladimeji and Mr Olagbaiye Abiola Adejumo both of 5, Makinde Street, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased.

Mrs Ajegbomogun Olabimpe and Mr Ajegbomogun Tope John both of 95, Bello Street, Ajasa Command Ipaja Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs mary D. Kpodo, Mr Nicholas P. Kpodo and Miss Ebiegberi Kpodo all of 5th Avenue 512 Road A Close Block 5, Flat 7, Festac, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased.

Victoria Ugoala and Stephen Ugoala both of No. 24, Iludun Street, Amukoko Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mr Antemyi Edoh of No. 8, Alhaji Oseni Street, Igbogbo and Mr Michael Oderinde Off Ginti Palace Igbe Road Ikorodu, Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Adekunle Rasheed Alakanse and Miss Folashade Roseline Alakanse both of Plot 4, House 2, Tawan Abudu Close Jibowu Estate, Abule Egba, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Roseline Omoyemeh Adamaigbo of 3, Ogunfowoke Crescent, Akute and Mrs Maria Chime of Block 198, Jakande Estate, Lekki Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Ariyibioke Joshua and Ariyibioke Shola both of 2, Alausa Compound Bolade Oshodi, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Nworie Edwin of No. 1 Wajero Street, Owode Ibeshe Ikorodu, Lagos, brother of the said deceased.

Mrs Helen Young Okorodudu and Mr Ese Okorodudu both of 2, Kunle Dipo Drive Ogonlonto Ikorodu, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Yemisi Kikelomo Marcus, Mr Abiola Olanrewaju Marcus and Mr Michael Ajibola Olufemi Marcus all of 56, Diya Street, Ifako Gbagada Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Otome Utele and Rohda Utele both of Block 26, Flat 2, LSDPC Housing Estate, Ojodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Ogunpola Kehinde Ifeoluwa (Mrs) of BA 38, Street, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos , and Mr Joseph Oludare Kehinde of 3 PH Street, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, widow and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

Gloria Titilola Oduntan of 15, Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija Ibadan and Oladele Salami of 5, Bode Thomas Street, Palmgrove, two of the children of the said deceased.

Obafunmilayo Olufunke D. and Obafunmilayo Elijah both of 14, George Fagbore Close, Owode Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Sarah Adeniyi and Ozovize C. Adeniyi both of 5, Oluwakemi Street, Shasha, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Akor Charity and Akor John both of 23, Anthony Obe Street, Ewutuntun Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Abdulkadiri J. Gambari and Gambari Qudus both of 11A, Tejuosho Street, Surulere, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Osita Ukommadu and Chizoba Ukommadu both of 47, Poople Street, Shomolu, Bariga Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Helen Torulolo, Jackson Torulolo and Beauty Torulolo all of Block 3, Room 13, Churchill Police Barracks Marine Road, Apapa, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Oluwakemi Onasanya, Mariam Onasanya and Habibat Onasanya all of 55, Western Avenue Ojuelegba, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Grace Ayayi, Mr Shola Ayayi, Yeside Ayayi and Toyin Ayayi all of Block 312 Flat 1 L.C.H.E. Jakande Estate, Oke Afa Isolo Lagos, mother , brother and two sisters respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Olusesan Alase, Mrs Oluwatoyin Alase and Adetoun Abodunrin all of Plot 4, Kola Lawal Close, Off Akibu Adeniyi Street, Jankara Ijaiye, Ojokoro, Lagos, father, mother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Yemisi Ojo and Mrs Adeleke Kemi Risikat both of 6/8 Oterubi Ogidan Street, Owode Onirin Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Mabel Ibegbunam and Mr Joseph Ibegbunam both of 5, Ifelodun Close, Coker Village, Orile widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Oyetubo Matthew Adeyemi of 29, Nosiru Atunwon Street, Eyita, Ikorodu, Lagos, and Oyetubo Funmilola Mary of 35, St. Finbarr’s College Road, Akoka Yaba, Lagos two of the children said deceased.

Mrs Olayinka Ogunkile of 10, Alhaji Tijani Street, Olasepe Estate, Denro Akute, Oluwadamilare Ojo, Oluwatosin Ojo and Iyannuoluwa Ojo all of 8, Ali Lane Onipanu Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Adenike Osho and Miss Tope Osho both of No. 16, Owojodun Street, Ijegun , Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Seidina Temitope and Seidina Oluwakemi both of No. 9, Balogun Adenubosi Street, Epe Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Kudirat Bello and Mr Fatai Bello both of No. 13, Ayo Alabi Street, Oke Ira Ogba, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Alhaja Animot Allison, Ms Wonuola Adiyat Allison, Barrister Hakeem Abayomi Allison and Mr Bashiru Tomori Alison all of 12, Ajoke Oduyebo Street, Behind Sabo Market Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and three children respectively of the said deceased.

PIUS Adekunle Odukoya and Stephen Adefolarin Odukoya both of No. 1, Hunyekoh Close, Idale Badagry, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Unini Francis and Miss Unini Blessing both of No. 18, Johnson Street, Cement Lagos State brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Rita Olajumoke lewis and Dr A.G. Olusola Labinjo both of 67, Sam Shonibare Street, Surulere, Lagos two of the children of the said deceased.

Chief Felix Olufemi Kokumo, Mrs Esther Adele (Nee Kokumo), Mr Solomon Adewale Kokumo and Mr Adewunmi Kokumo all of 6, Kokumo Road, Alimosho Lagos, three Nephew and niece respectively of the said deceased.

Emem Richard and Elizabeth Richard both of Close 53, House 5, Satellite Town, Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Yewande Philip and Miss T.O. Fatoyinbo both of 1, Ajegunle Street, Ilupeju, Palmgrove Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

Williams Iwu Roselyn and Ugwuelenma Ugochi both of 85, Oshola Street, Ifako Ijaiye Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Oluwole S. Shoda, Mrs A.Banjo, Olamide Shoda and Mrs K.Benjamin all of 2, Adetunji Adegbite Ogudu Ojota, Lagos, four children of the said deceased.

Izebuno Igbaneta and Izebuno Udukheli both of 22, Adekuoroye Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Abdulrafiu Omodolapo Elegba and Musa Maroof Olawale both of 17, Oroleye Crescent, Opebi, Ikeja one of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Oshotimehin Rashidat Olaide and Ogunsola Saheed Olawale both of 3, Ogunsola Street, New Oko Oba Agege, Lagos , two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Oyelami Olayemi of 2, Adegboola Street, Alakuko, Lagos and Abiodun Oyewole of 2, Gate way Close, Campbell Street, Ogun State widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Ugwuanyi Georgina and Mr Ugwuanyi Chidozie J. both of 30, Mission Road, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Evelyn Okon Jonathan and Utibe Okon Jonathan both of 11, Shomide Street, Idimangoro Agege, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Abiodun John Olasoji and Mrs Josephine Bolajoko Adereti c/o their Solicitors, J.A.Tijani Esq 54, Obalofon Street, Sabo Ile Ife Osun State.

Mrs Adeyoola Zosi and Miss Anthonia Zosi both of 16, Kasumu Street, Oke- Koto Agege, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the sai deceased.

Mrs Amaka Onyia and Mr Sunday Onyia both of 8, Mounogoro Close, Akute Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Rt. Rev. Arch Anthony Okogie of Arch Dioces of Lagos and Mrs Sarah Eme Ani of 6, Olatunde Close, Surulere, Lagos Executor/Executrix of the said deceased.

Mr Abraham Ufuoma Ebbah of 57, Akeju Street, Shomolu, Lagos and Abigail Ebbah of 19, Dosumu Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mrs Grace Ivalea Efejuku and Mr David Otsagbemi Efejuku both of Block 279, Flat 4, Amuwo Odofin Estate, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Atanda Bolanle L. and Miss Atanda Rukayat Y. both of 3rd Avenue Rofo Road, 3D H8 Odogunyan, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Dr Morounfolu Ade Onabule and Mrs Mosunmola Oyeyinka both of 9, Oduwobi Street, Ilupeju Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

Mr John Oyedepo and Mr Lanrewaju Oyedepo both of 50, Tapa Road, Isawo Ikorodu, Lagos, father and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Victoria Oleh Godfrey Dickson and Veronica Oleh all of 173, Itire Road, Ilogbo Ajangbadi, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased.

Mr Julius Adebola Aina and Victor Jonathan Aina both of Block 143, Flat 5, LBIC Low Cost Alaka Surulere, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Catherine A. Udeogu and Emmanuel Udeogu both of D3 Flat 2, FAAN Quarters Ikeja Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Kehinde Ajeigbe and Mosunmola Ajeigbe both of 26, Okeho Street, Dopemu Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Patience Owuta of 83, Akerele Street, Surulere, Lagos and Celina Anyeze of 101, Goriola Street, Ajegunle Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

Olajuwon Titilayo and Olajuwon Anthony both of 36, Owolewa Street, Agege, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Ngozi Ekwenugo and Mr Victor Ekwenugo both of 321 Road, B Close, House 6 Festac Town, Lagos,widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Janet Oluyemisi Ogungbenle and Olamide Adeniyi Ogungbenle both of Block 214, Flat 1, Housing Estate, Amuwo Odofin Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

Mrs Olufunke O. Egberongbe and Mr Adekunl A. Olokun both of 33, Durojaiye Street, Lawanson Surulere, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

G.A SAFARI (EQS.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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NEWS NAFDAC begins data capturing of packaged water producers From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

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HE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) yesterday said it has begun a biometric capturing of the producers of regulated products, including packaged water, to have a reliable data base for regulation.

The agency said it has over 8,679 registered water producing factories, most of which have not registered.

NAFDAC’s Director-General, Dr Paul Orhii, spoke in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, at a workshop organised for water producers in the North Central zone.

He noted that the workshop would ensure a re-certification of packaged water factories, irrespective of their registration status, to overcome many problems.

Orhii said the workshop was for good manufacturing practices, in line with contemporary global best practices in packaged water production.

He said the agency is organising nation-wide training to enable packaged water producers to understand modern technology for making quality water for consumption.

The NAFDAC chief warned water producers against malpractice, saying the agency would sanction those found producing low quality water for drink.

Orhii added that NAFDAC has discovered unwholesome practices during its inspection tour of sachet water factories.

The practices, he said, included improper use of water treatment chemical, such as chlorine and domestic water filters.

He urged the producers to avoid using high density polyethylene bags as primary packaging materials or inappropriate labelling of their products.

According to him, the agency will ensure the quality of packaged water through inspection, laboratory analyses and registration of the products.

Orhii, who was represented by the Deputy Director, North Central zone, Mr Norbert Madueke, noted that drinking contaminated water could cause diarrhea, cholera, typhoid and in even death.

“Drinking water must meet the minimum Nigeria Industrial Standard (NIS) for potable water,” he said.

A

Oct 1 bombings: Court to try suspects separately

FEDERAL High Court sitting in Abuja yesterday granted the request to try separately one of the suspects in the October 1, 2010 bombings in Abuja, Edmund Ebware, from other suspects charged with the October 1, 2010 bombings in Abuja.

Justice Gabriel Kolawole granted the order following an application by Ebware’s lawyer, Oghenevo Otemu, praying the court for an independent trial.

The applicant averred that his trial with other accused would be a distraction for his defence because he had no contact with them until their arrest.

Justice Kolawoe said: “This applicant has asked for a sepa-

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

rate trial. In the absence of any valid opposition, the court shall have no option but to grant the application.

“The accused has repeatedly held that he was wrongly charged with those accused to have orchestrated the Independence Day bombing in Abuja.

“The law is trite, and therefore, the court is obliged to grant the accused applicant’s prayer for a separate trial. The granting of the prayer would not in any way negate the charges brought against him.

“This is the dynamics in law; all is to ensure justice for all.

The new process will not also

affect the evidence available to the prosecutor.

“The name of the third accused (Ebuware) is hereby severed from the list of those charged with the October 1, 2010 bombing in Abuja. He will be in the stance tried separately.”

Others on trial for the bombings are: Charles Okah and Obi Nwabueze.

The fourth accused, Tiemkemfa Osuvwo, died in Kuje Prison, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The accused are on trial over their alleged involvement in the Independent Day bombings in Abuja.

They are accused of alleged levying war against the state

to intimidate President Goodluck Jonathan, contrary to and punishable under Section 37(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 77, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 1990.

They are also accused of terrorism and conspiracy to commit treason, contrary to Section 40 (2) of the Criminal Code CAP 77, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 1990.

Ebiware was accused of withholding information on the planned attack by allegedly not using reasonable means to leak the information to the President and Peace Officer to foil the planned attack.

The trial was adjourned till May 19 and 20, as well as July 10, 11 and 12.

From Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

• Lagos State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget Mr Ben Akabueze flanked by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Iyabowale Aluko (left) and her counterpart in the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mrs Oluranti Odutola, at this year’s ministerial media briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

J

Court stays proceedings in N404m claim suit is also seeking an order to strike USTICE Stephen Adah of a Federal High Court has against GlaxoSmithKline out the action on the grounds that the Federal High Court stayed proceedings in a

N404 million claim suit filed by a Burkina Fasso-based worker of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Charles Oben.

The plaintiff alleged that he is a victim of Zyloric, a drug manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Nigeria Limited.

The court stayed action on proceedings in the matter, pending the determination of an appeal filed by the defendants.

Justice Adah had struck out the preliminary objection on jurisdiction, raised by

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

O

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi yesterday reaffirmed his Nigerian citizenship and not that of the United States, as alleged by some opposition elements to the ruling Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state.

THE Wife of Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Ijebu Southwest, Mrs Latundun Ogunbanwo, has been denied the opportunity of watching her husband receive a PhD degree at a South African university.

She was denied visa by the South African Deputy High Commission's Consular Office in Lagos.

She could only see her husband, Rt. Rev. Babatunde Ogunbanwo, at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, on April 23, as he departed for South Africa to receive the degree awarded by the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

The bishop's wife said the consular officers claimed to have denied her a visa on an allegation that she failed to produce proof of having been vaccinated against yellow fever, "even after producing three different yellow fever vaccination certificates, the same as those tendered by the bishop".

Why corruption is high, by SERVICOM

•Victim of Zyloric drug

By Adebisi Onanuga

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Nigeria Limited, in the suit.

Counsel to the claimant, Mr. Obatosin Ogunkeye, told the court that Oben suffered health complications after taking the drug.

Dissatisfied with the decision of the Federal High Court, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Nigeria Limited and GlaxoSmithKline Plc UK filed an appeal at the Court of Ap-

peal, Lagos.

Based on the grounds of appeal filed by its counsel, Mr. O.A. Ajasa, the drug manufacturing company averred that the trial judge erred in law for holding that the Federal High Court has jurisdiction to entertain the matter because the claim of the plaintiff/respondent has to do with the manufacture of Zyloric.

Of the reliefs sought from the Court of Appeal is an order setting aside the decision and the orders of the lower court. It

lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the claims of the plaintiff/ respondent.

Ruling on the preliminary objection by the drug manufacturing company, Justice Adah held that the court has jurisdiction to hear and determine the suit.

He said: “Objection is, therefore, overruled and the case is set down for hearing.”

The judge referred to Section 251(1) (m) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, which provides that the court has exclusive jurisdiction for drugs and poisons.

I’m full blooded Nigerian, says Ajimobi

•Ajimobi

Bishop's wife denied S/Africa visa

The governor was at the Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos office of the American Consulate to apply for a visa to enable him travel to the US to woo investors.

He told The Nation that contrary to the claims by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that he was an American citizen, he remains a free born Nigerian.

Ajimobi was taken to the Election Petition Tribunal last year by the PDP, which alleged that he was not qualified to contest the election because he was a citizen of the US.

He, however, defeated the opposition at the tribunal and the appeal tribunal, which upheld his election after proving that he does not possess the citizenship of the US. Speaking with The Nation yesterday, Ajimobi said: “I am a full-fledged Nigerian citizen. I don’t have any other country. I came here to apply for visa to go to the United States because we are going for an investment workshop and we are going with many of our people to look for opportunities for investments in America and invite them to come and invest here.

“I studied in America, of course, and I was there for

about eight years. But since then, I have been here. Those who said I’m a US citizen are either mischievous or are misinformed. If I was a US citizen, would I have come here for a visa? I’ve not travelled to the US sine I became governor. In fact, I have not travelled to the US since 2003.

“For me, we must take advantage of the fact that Ibadan has been listed among the top 10 cities with investment potentials in Africa. I have been to South Africa, made presentation to the business community there. I have been to England, and I am going to America now. And this is paying off.

“One of the gains is the listing of Ibadan by the Financial Times of London as one of the top 10 investors’ destinations.

Oyo State is now being recognised. Even the World Bank and others are now beginning to show interest in Oyo State because of our transparency, our good governance, our management style. I think everybody is now noticing Oyo State because the only way we can develop the state is to invite others to partner with us and get away from this rural-state syndrome where what people think is how to tell lies, how to pull people down, destroy others, engage in brigandage etc. “

THE Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on SERVICOM, Mr. Sylbriks Obriki, has attributed lack of commitment to service delivery as the main cause of corruption among public office holders in Nigeria.

He said there would be no need for probing civil servants and public office holders if there was true commitment to avoid service failure.

Obriki made the remark yesterday at the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) Service Charter launch held at the National Weather Forecasting and Climate Research Centre in Abuja.

He said: "When talking about corruption, you will realise that it is as a result of service failure. When services fail, corruption begins. The Director General has a responsibility to do his job. That is the only way we can confront the challenges facing our country, except that Nigeria will not go anywhere.

"If you delivered effective services, why fear the EFCC? The regulatory agency is coming in because you are not doing the right thing. It’s not until you steal Nigeria money that they would start probing you."

Obriki, who is the National President of SERVICOM, restated the need for every civil servant to properly discharge his duties.

The Minister of Aviation Princess Stella Oduah said the NIMET service charter is significant to transforming the sector. She noted that it would improve the standard to customer service delivery.

Oduah, who was represented by the Director of Human Resources, Federal Ministry of Aviation, Mr. Dosumu, said the service charter would serve as a benchmark for daily activities of the agency.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

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NEWS Akume condoles with Oshiomhole

S

ENATE Minority Leader George Akume has condole with Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole over his convoy crash.

In a letter, Akume said: “I received with shock the tragic news of your accident and write to extend to you, the sympathies of my family and those of the good people of Benue North-West.

“With the efforts you are making in the development of Edo, this temporary setback will no doubt be devastating and painful.

“We however, urged you to be thankful to God for sparing your life; and may the memories of the accident be the tonic that will propel you to do more.Be assured of our continued prayers.

“I extend sympathy to you, families and relatives of the deceased as well as the people of Edo. I wish those recuperating speedy recovery.”

• Ogun State Governor’s wife Mrs Olufunso Amosun celebrating her 46th birthday with kids in Abeokuta...on Wednesday

Ex-UI VC faults 6-3-3-4 system

Cultists threaten to attack in Bayelsa From Isaac Ombe, Yenagoa

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HE Bayela State Police Command said it is prepared to counter any attacks by suspected cult members.

Commissioner of Police Chris Olakpe said some peo ple believed to be kingpins of cult groups sent him text messages threatening to attack the command, if he refused to release some suspects.

The threats are coming on the heels of the anti cult bill signed by Governor Seriake Dickson on Wednesday.

His words: ”I was threatened some few days ago by certain people, who said some of their staunch members are being held.

“The messages threatened that if I don’t release the cultists, they would launch attacks on me and senior police officers, but I dared them to go ahead with their empty threats and be ready to face the consequences.

“We have arrested some cultists and more so the enabling law to prosecute them had just been signed by the governor and we would wage war head on against them.”

Reps pass bill to legalise new universities

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O stimulate the successful take-off of the nine new universities established by the Federal Government, the House of Representatives has passed a bill to give legal backing to the institutions.

The Majority Leader, Mrs. Mulikat Akande-Adeola, said much had been done with regards to funding of the new universities, especially with the introduction of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), and

CHANGE OF NAME ORJI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ORJI EUCHARIA OGBONNIE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ACHESE EUCHARIA OGBONNIE. All former documents remain valid. IMT, NYSC and general public take note.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi

the N1.5 billion take-off grants to each by the Federal Government.

Minority Whip Samson Osagie cautioned against abandoning the existing federal universities.

Chairman of the Committee on Education Farouk Lawan argued that the new universities would address a lot of challenges facing the country.

According to him, only 20 per cent of admission seekers get admitted into the available universities.

SpeakerAminu Tambuwal referred the bill to the Committee on Education for further legislative input.

F

ORMER Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI) Prof Ayo Banjo yesterday faulted the 6-3-3-4 education system, saying it is “meaningless.”

He said the model in which secondary learning is broken into halves is not ideal for a country with a high illiteracy level.

According to him, with the low standard of primary education, students who leave school with three years of secondary education would have very little to contribute to the society and may end up losing the “modest literacy” they acquired.

Banjo called for a reversal to and an expansion of the previous six-year model, saying the only problem with the system was the inability to operate it.

He spoke on The Future of Nigerian Education in a lecture to mark the 20th anniversary of Tanus Communications Limited in Lagos.

The firm’s subsidiary, Tanus Books Limited, launched 111 titles of primary textbooks at the event.

Banjo, a former pro-chancellor of three universities, said should the question be asked: What is the future of

•Canvasses expansion of six-year model •Tanus launches 111 textbooks

By Joseph Jibueze

Nigerian Education? the answer, he said, would be: Bleak.

For him, Nigeria only needs to look back to the standard of education before and soon after independence to learn how to run a functional educational system. The country does not need to send delegates abroad to acquire the knowledge, he said.

He said: “All we need to do is look at our own history and see how the schools were run, when the University College, Ibadan ranked among the first 10 in the world.

“The future of education may remain bleak until education is made a priority of government, where primary school teachers are welltrained and remunerated, where classrooms and schools are made conducive for learning and universities well-funded.

“Quality assurance mechanisms must be restored.”

He recalled that education inspectors used to monitor the quality of teaching and even scrutinised teachers’ notes,

with officers sometimes attending classes surreptitiously to ensure teaching standards are met.

“Education is the prime mover of development, from which other sectors is expected to benefit,” he said, adding that statecraft consists of ability to balance a country’s educational demands with other national needs.

“No country makes millionaires of teachers, yet no serious country makes paupers of them,” he added.

Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chieftain Audu Ogbe said governance is failing because those in government do not possess the intellectual capacity to govern.

He said even a political party ought to consist of intellectuals with an ideology.

“Those who insist on training the mind are the real heroes,” he said.

Reacting to Banjo’s statement that “History does not appear in the curriculum of secondary schools,” Ogbe said: “We cannot survive as a country without history.

We must return to the teach-

ing of history as quickly as possible.”

Chairman of Tanus Communications and Tanus Books Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi said the book company has some 232 school titles in its stable, ranging from technical to standard core titles.

“We are currently working on the production of e-versions of all our textbooks. Ultimately, we would, in collaboration, with our foreign partners, produce a specially designed Tanus-BookTablet that would hold all our school textbooks, electronically,” he said.

Vanguard publisher Sam Amuka-Pemu chaired the event attended by former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke; former Zenith Bank Managing Director Jim Ovia; Chairman, Troika Group, Biodun Sobanjo; Prof Stephen Uche and Rev Bola Oyeledun.

Also present were author Odia Ofeimun, Dr Doyin Abiola, Lagos Commissioner for the Environment Tunji Bello, representatives of Rivers and Ekiti states governors Rotimi Amaechi and Kayode Fayemi, among others.

ICPC arrests teacher for alleged impersonation at exam

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HE Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) yesterday said it has arrested a teacher in Akure, the Ondo State capital, for allegedly helping a student during the ongoing West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

A statement by the Resident Consultant (Media and Event), Folu Olamiti, said Obagboye Oluwole was arrested, following a tip off by members of the National Anti Corruption Volunteers Corps (NAVC) Akure Zone.

The commission said the volunteers had raised the alarm that some teachers of Tuuonbititi International School were conniving with some students to cheat in the examination.

The statement said: “The tip- off paid off when ICPC

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

detectives stormed the school and caught the teacher, some students and other accomplices at the centre.

“The teacher and some others were arrested.

“The detectives, however, resolved to arrest the Principal, Olowojesiku Akin, for

alleged examination malpractices.

“Those so far arrested are at the ICPC’s Ilesa Office where they are being interrogated.

“A student who was caught with incriminating papers; an answer sheet result, during interrogation indicted Obagboye whom

he alleged distributed answer sheets to students . “ Obagboye confessed that he hired a mercenary to write the examination for another candidate, who he said, was not present in the exam hall.

“The suspect is helping with investigation and is on administrative bail.”

Minister summoned over illegal loans

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HE Ministry of Education has been obtaining illegal loans from parastatals and agencies under its supervision over the years, it emerged yesterday.

The House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts (PAC) has given the Minister, Prof. Rukkayat Rufai, a two-week ultimatum to appear before it to defend the ministry’s action.

The directives were given

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

yesterday during a meeting between the PAC and Tertiary Education trust Fund (TetFund), led by its Executive Secretary, Mallam Mammud Yaqub.

The ministry was found to have illegally obtained N531million in two installments between 2006 and 2007 from the TetFund

on the orders of the then minister.

The Committee also gave the ministry 30 days to fully pay back the funds.

According to the Committee Chairman, Solomon Adeola, if the ministry fails to comply with the directive, the office of the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) would be directed to stop further disbursement of funds to it.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

55

46TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

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he Kano State Executive Council held its forty sixth (46th) sitting today Wednesday 2nd May, 2012 (11th Jumada Thani, 1433 AH) during which various submissions from different MDAs were presented and received deliberation and blessing of the Council as follows. Today Wednesday 2nd May, 2012 (11th Jumada Thani, 1433 AH) is the Forty Sixth (46th) sitting of the Kano State Executive Council and is in continuation with previous sittings at which Council typically deliberated on important policy issues and programs that impact positively on the quality of lives of our citizenry. It is comprehensively on record that since inception of the present administration, it pursues tangible projects/programs which are evident in all sectors. No doubt, this administration is committed to deliver on its campaign and inauguration speech promises made by the Chief Executive in the person of Dr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso whose resolve is provision of good Governance and copious leadership in which prudence and transparency in the utilization of resources are the main guiding principles.

It is apparent that the hopes and aspirations of people are being salvaged in the State with an unsurpassed vigor and steady momentum. The quantity and quality of Government services have improved across all sectors – especially agricultural production, education, provision of social amenities, health care delivery, road construction/rehabilitation, beautification of urban Kano, etc. Since inception, the present Administration has approved for execution an expenditure of over N40 billion.

In fact, the total sum of N836,381,231.27 was approved for release for the execution of projects by the Council in its most recent forty fifth (45th) sitting.

Main highlights of the 45th sitting include:i.

N581,294,889.00 for the reconstruction of Challawa Bridge by Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport. ii. N12,730,388.40 for the execution of vital projects by Kano State Library Board. iii. N5,135,941.30 for fencing of Mass Education Women Centre at U/Uku. iv. N7,264,230.00 for accreditation fees and purchase of books by Ministry of Health for Schools of Midwifery Kano and Danbatta. v. N2,560,000.00 for payment of bursary allowance for late admitted Law graduates to Nigerian Law School. vi. N69,595,312.50 for purchase of chemicals and equipment for continuation of the vector and mosquito control program for the period of April – Dec. 2012. vii. N90,000,000.00 for purchase of chemicals and equipment for continuation of the vector and mosquito control program. v i i i . N4,351,880.00 for purchase of working materials for 1,155 street sweepers/sanitation workers under REMASAB. ix. N7,136,240.00 As MDGs/LGAs Conditional Grant Scheme – Training of Enumerators for Baseline Facilities Inventory for North–West Geo-Political Zone in Kano (26th – 29th April, 2012). x. N34,714,450.07 as logistics for the conducct of the baseline facilities exercise to be carried out in the State. xi. N21,597,450.07 for payment of 314 contract staff as outstanding contract gratuity.

In relentless continuation with its resolve to providing tangible people and public spirited quality services, the Council at today’s (2nd May, 2012) sitting deliberated and granted approval for an expenditure of N620,053,864.39 to cover sixteen (16) projects with monetary cost from twenty four (24), submitted by eight (8) MDAS while the remaining nine (9) without monetary cost were allowed to carry out their prayers and requests. Each is presented in turn; 1. Office of the Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner for Local Government. Three (3) issues under the auspices of the Office of the Deputy Governor and Hon. Commissioner for Local Government was presented for deliberation by the Council – as follows; a. Tax liabilities against Local Governments received from the Federal Inland Revenue Offices, Zoo Road and Club Road Kano:i. The Council noted that Tax liabilities (VAT, WHT and STAMP DUTY 2009 – 2010) against the forty-four (44) Local Governments under the jurisdiction of the Federal Inland Revenue offices of Zoo Road and Club Road, Kano have been verified and reconciled by the Tax office.

Council considers the size of the amount of money involved and approved release of N88 million for the month of May 2012 and N44 million for the remaining months of the year to settle the tax liabilities for the 44 Local Governments inherited from the defunct administration. b) Proposal submitted by the Economic Adviser on project for quick Win – Bus Mass Transit (BMT) intervention on some selected roads in Kano metropolis by SHAANNXI Auto Logistics and Solution Limited:The Council considers conformity of the proposed project with the policy of the present administration on transforming Kano metropolis into an organized modern city with sustainable transport system. In fact, the project only augments the new Taxi services empowerment program being implemented by the administration. As such, Council approves issuing out to Messr.

SHAANXI Auto Logistics and Solutions Limited a concessional approval letter and allocation of two plots of Land one each along i.

Kwanar Dawakin Kudu – Zaria Road – Ibrahim Taiwo Road – Yankura. ii. Dorawar Na’abba – Hotoro – Radio Kano Yankura. c) Request for funds for 26 episodes of one hour program by Kano State Radio co-operation with the following State Sharia Implementation Agencies; i.

Sharia Commission ii.

Zakkat Commission iii. Hajj Commission iv.

Hisbah Board The significance of the programs to be aired weekly on the importance of peace and stability as vehicles for societal development prompted the Council to approve release of the sum of N3,900,000.00 to the Office of the Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner for Local Governments for onward payment to Kano State Radio Corporation to enable it facilitate the weekly programs.

2. Office of the Secretary to the Government Four (4) issues/projects were submitted under the auspices of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for deliberation by the Council. They include; a. Proposal to Establish a World – Class Hospitality and Tourism Institute in the State:Council noted that the committee appointed to look into the issue and advise Government submitted its report which recommends that Daula Hotel should be renovated/upgraded and to subsist with the Tourism Institute. Council also noted that the cost implication of the entire project to the tune of N1,301,000,000.00 will be borne by Messrs. Mas – Menson Project Limited as the company recommended for the 15 year lease agreement to be entered with Daula Hotel establishment.

Council approved that a lease agreement for 15 years be entered with Messrs Menson Project Limited for the lease of Daula Hotel and the establishment of World Class Hospitality and Tourism Institute considering that the company bears the entire cost of N1,301,000,000.00 of renovating and upgrading the provisions present. b. Request for funds to mount wide publicity for the Lafiya Jari program submitted by Office of the Special Adviser on Sanitation and Immunization:Empowerment The Council considered the need for publicity for the Lafiya Jari and other programs due to their significance in changing the face of the State. Lafiya Jari has offered training and provides financial support to youths so that they could be self-employed.

Over N200 million was expended on these programs since the inception of this Administration. As such, the Council has approved the release of the requested sum of N9,617,944.05 which is to be used for the propagation of Lafia Jari Programs and that of the other empowerment. A Committee comprised the Hon. Commissioners Works, Science and Agriculture to monitor the successful conduct of the program. c. Request for permission to use money saved from the monthly standing order of N13,500,000.00 allocated for the purchase of diesel by the Kano State Hospital Management Board:Council noted with appreciation the declaration of none usage of N5,632,000.00 from the monthly standing order due to nonpurchase of diesel between the months of January and February 2012. The Council approved the utilization of the saved money as follows: i.

N2,087,190.00 to repair four (4) generators through direct labour. ii. N3,447,874.23 including installation cost, VAT and Tax to purchase one new 100KVA Perkins generator for the Board’s Headquarters.

Total N5,535,064.23 d. Request for funds to facilitate the take – off of the one hundred (100) Zawarawa marriage pilot scheme submitted by Hisbah Board:- Council, in fulfilling its commitment to the Zawarawa marriage scheme approved the implementation of the first phase or pilot scheme involving one hundred (100) or ten percent (10%) of the earmarked 1000 Zawarawas. N15,000,000.00 is approved for release to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for onward transfer to Hisbah Board to facilitate the scheme.

3. Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Co-operative and Tourism Two (2) issues/projects were submitted by this Ministry for consideration and deliberation by the Council as follows; a. Request for funds for external and ancillary works at the Common Facility Centre (CFC) Sharada Kano:Council recalled its decision to finance the construction of the Common Facility Centre at Sharada Small Scale Industrial Estate due to the inability of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council to undertake the construction work at the site. This project has reached advanced stages and would be completed and be ready for commissioning during the first year Anniversary of the 2nd tenure of the present administration. As such, the Council approved the release of the requested sum of N4,173,866.90 to the Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Co-operatives and Tourism to enable the completion of the programme.

The money is to be used thus; i.

Development of parking lots ii.

Development of Kerbs iii. Landscaping (Grassing) iv.

External Plumbing. b. Request for funds to pay-off outstanding liabilities of verified trade creditors of Daula Hotel:Council is aware of the situation and success achieved in settling the benefits of laid–off staff of Daula Hotel. The sum of almost N100 million was paid to Daula Hotel staffs that were disengaged from its service towards its transformation to Hospitality and Tourism Institute. So, settling the requested outstanding liability of N1,818,637.99 only completes the process of the disengagement.

The Council approved the release of the requested sum of N1,818,637.99 to the Ministry of Commerce to enable it finally settle the liabilities at Daula Hotel so as facilitate the smooth transition to the envisaged Hospitality and Tourism Institute.

4. Ministry of Environment One (1) issue/project was submitted by the Ministry of Environment for consideration and deliberation by the Council. These includes; a. Request for funds for the rehabilitation/cleaning of tertiary and secondary drainages and the procurement of working tools for casual labourers:The Council noted that fourteen (14) major drainages have been identified for cleaning and rehabilitation across the eight (8) metropolitan Local Government areas covering a total of 37.6 kilometers (6.6km secondary and 31 kilometer tertiary drainages).

And, that the work will check and prevent the occurrence of annual devastating flood/attendant with loss of lives and properties as well as epidemic outbreaks of diseases). Aware of the imminent onset of the raining season, the Council approved the release of the sum of N20,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Environment to enable it undertake the cleaning/ rehabilitation and procurement of working tools for tertiary drainages.

5. Ministry of Health Two issues/projects were submitted for consideration and deliberation by the Council from the Ministry of Health they include: a. Request for funds for the conversion of Bee-Zee-Bee Hotel at Naibawa Zaria Road to State Primary Health Care Development Board headquarters:Council noted and considered with concern the request referred. The Hotel complex was purchased by the present administration

during its first term in 1999. What remains is putting it to proper use especially as is required. The defunct administration left the structure unutilized. Therefore, the Council approved the release of the requested sum of N33,544,862.50 to the Ministry of Health to enable it facilitate the renovation, alteration and completion works (phase 1) for the purpose of converting Bee-Zee-Bee Hotel into Primary Healthcare Development Board Headquarters. b. Request for funds for the relocation and construction of the new Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency Complex (phase 1) at Kwanar Kwankwaso, Madobi LGA:The Council considered the need for the referred project and did not hesitate to approve the release of the requested sum of N217,467,049.00 to the Ministry of Health to enable it undertake the project for the relocation and construction of the new Kano State Drugs Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso and Medical Consumables Supply Agency Complex phase 1 at Kwanar Kwankwaso, Modobi LGA. The relocation of the company would provide the recently established Governor’s College with additional land and structure for future expansion.

6. Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport Four issues/projects were submitted by the Ministry of works for consideration and deliberation by the Council viz; a. Submission of memorandum presented on proceedings of the 19th National Council on Works meeting held at the Federal Palace Hotel Lagos:Council acknowledged receipt of the referred memorandum notes and considered its contents and approved for the Ministry of Works to periodically be organizing interactive session with Ministries, Local Governments and other relevant agencies with a view to sensitizing them on new national policies and development affecting public work. b. Request for funds needed to engage 250 youths as Traffic Assistants:Council is aware of its commitment to the issue referred and did not hesitate in approving the release of the requested sum of N29,629,800.00 to the Ministry of Works so as to actualize the proposal for the provision of uniforms and kits, training, allowance and logistics for the engaged 250 Traffic Assistants. Already the administration has engaged 500 youths as Traffic Assistants. c. Council receipt a request for the provision of Street Light at Kofar Ruwa – Kofar Mazugal – Triumph and Masallacin Fagge Round-About and approved the release of the total sum of N97,650,387.60 for the said commitment. Since, the inception of this administration more than N500 million was expended on the provision of Streetlight. The State capital is transformed into a modern city as all major roads are provided with streetlight. d. Renovation of the former Bank of the North House at the sum of N29,931,571.22 The State Government has recently purchased former Bank of the North house. However, the house requires renovation before it could be utilized. After, following due process the Council approved the award of a contract for the renovation of the house to N. Dayekh and Company Ltd at the cost of N29,931,571.22.

7. Office of the Head Civil Service Council considered the memorandum submitted by the Head of Civil Service on bereaved family allowance and magnanimously approved the release of the requested sum of N3,090,000.00 to the Office of the Head of Civil Service to immediately handle the 9th batch (2012) covering 56 deceased Civil Servants. Council commiserates with respective family of the deceased Civil Servants and condoles them wishing for Allah’s support and granting them resilience to bear the loss.

8.

Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning You may recall the present Administration’s effort towards reviving education at all levels, hence the conceiving of the establishment of the Northwest University which is expected to commence academic session comes September, this year. It is in the same direction that the Council approved the sum of N16,876,620.00 for the settlement of compensation to owners of some structures to be affected by the establishment of the University. The Government has already awarded contract for the construction of two blocks and an administration block for the takeoff of the University.

Progress Report: You may be aware that, it is the tradition of the Kano State Executive Council to at every sitting, flash back on approvals and resolutions granted/reached in respect of various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) during its previous meetings aimed at appraising the level of progress made in executing the projects/programs and policies. In the same vein, today the esteemed Council noted the progress on such as highlighted here under:Ministry for Higher Education; Council noted with appreciation the full accreditation of Kano State University of Science and Technology (KUST) for five (5) years by the National Universities Commission. The Commission is vested with the statutory mandate for program and institutional accreditation in Nigerian Universities. The commission expressed its satisfaction over Government’s efforts in elevating the standard of institutions in the State.

Ministry of Education; Noted by Council today is the interactive session conducted by the Ministry with various Old Boys Associations and Parents Teachers Associations of Secondary Schools in the State during which a cross fertilization of ideas were done, with a view to have a coordinated flat-form in reviving the State Education sector. Moreover, the Ministry in liaison with the Special Assistant, Community Schools received some Schools built by some individuals and private institutions in their desire to complement Government’s effort in that direction.

Council then noted with appreciation the successful conduct of the first batch of headmasters training under SUBEB as well as the ongoing two weeks second batch training of over 4,000 teachers taking place at Bayero University Kano, Sa’adatu Rimi, College of Education, Kumbotso, and College of Education (Technical) Bichi. Ministry of Works, Housing & Transport; A Ministerial Press Briefing highlighting the achievements of the Ministry of Works, Housing & Transport and by extension the present Administration was conducted by the Ministry. During the briefing, the public were informed on various Government projects such as Sports complex, 18No. skills acquisition institutions, employment of over 500 traffic assistants under first and second batch employment scheme, various constructions of additional office blocks at different Government establishments, roads, street lights, overhead pedestrian bridges among others.

Ministry of Agriculture & Natural Resources; The Hon. Commissioner of Agriculture briefed Council on the outcome of the International Dairy Conference held in Kenya, which was attended by the Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture. The Council noted that as against average milk of 2 to 4 liters extracted daily from the present cow species in the State, there is identified special species that about 45 liters would be extracted each and every day. As seen in the present Administration’s effort in reviving the poultry farming in the State, the Council reiterated its readiness to bring in the said species for cross breeding.

Ministry of Environment; While noting the effective waste management in the State, the Council recognized the support and cooperation of Tipper drivers and other private individuals and the general public for the success being achieved. It further thanks them of the gesture.

Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives & Tourism; Kano State being Centre of Commerce, it is a well known fact that the present Administration pays much of its attention in uplifting the sector through tireless and various laudable projects and programs. It is in the same direction that the Council noted the effort of the Ministry in hosting workshop for Workers Cooperative Union in the State.

Ministry of Planning & Budget; Noted by the Council is the workshop on MDGs conducted by the Ministry which covers seven metropolitan Local Governments in the State being the first phase of the exercise.

Security Situation in the State; Commenting on the recent bomb blast at Bayero University, Kano, the esteemed Council condoles the families of the deceased and the University community. It then prayed for speedy recovery of those who suffered injuries during the incidence.

2012 Hajj Exercise; His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, briefed the Council on State officials visit to Saudi Arabia for preparation of securing accommodation to the intending pilgrims for 2012 hajj exercise. Council noted from the brief that the proposed accommodation to be engaged by the State, are not far from the Ka’abah.

Workers Day; Council recalled the observance of Workers Day yesterday, 1st May, 2012 and congratulated particularly the State workers and the entire workers in the federation for the day and urged them to continue putting in their best in their official undertakings for a better State and country at large.

Victims of Pfizer Immunization; A fruitful discussion was held by the Governor with the officials of Pfizer Plc in respect of victims to the immunization program done by the Companies about ten years back. The outcome of the meeting informed the Company’s willingness to settle those affected by the exercise as soon as possible.

Signing of HIV law by His Excellency, the Governor; Council noted the signing of HIV law 2012 on 30th April, 2012 and the setting up of an Agency solely responsible for handling HIV issue.

Nigerian Labour Congress Commendation to Present Administration; The esteem Council has today noted with appreciation the commendation made by the apex workers association Nigerian Labour Congress, Kano State Chapter towards present Administration’s magnanimity in the implementation of some programs bordering on workers welfare such as:a. The implementation of 18,000.00 minimum wage to its civil servants in b. Approval for the sales of Government houses to civil servant occupants in the State c. Disbursement of vehicle loans to civil servants to the tune of N240million so far. d. Approval for the recruitment of 1002 unemployed youth into the State services. e. Approvals for the training and retraining of a sizeable number of civil servants both within and outside the Country. f.

Prompt payment of salaries and allowances which is usually done before the 25th of every month as directed by the Government. g. The biometric project in respect of State and Local Government staff which is aimed at among other things; having an accurate number in respect of the staff and officers h. Sanitizing the payroll system.

Signed: Hon. Commissioner, Ministry for Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports and Culture.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

56

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 3-5-12

GTBank, DMO, link market crash to HE House of Repreto several sub-sectors, incapital flight ties sentatives ad hoc comcluding real estate, down-

T

mittee investigating the near collapse of the capital market; was yesterday given further insight into factors responsible for the crash.

The Managing Director, GTBBank, Segun Agbaje attributed the meltdown of the capital market to capital flight and lack of margin lending regulation by banks.

He said the global financial crisis, as well as the crisis within the sector was part of the causes that led to the crash of the stock market.

Agbaje, who was represented by the Deputy Managing Director, Cathy Echeozo, said there were several contributing factors leading up to the meltdown of the Nigerian capital market, adding that although each of them may be insignificant when taken separately, but altogether, they created the enabling environment for the crash.

“The international financial crises and capital flight in 2008, and the downturn as a result of the sub-prime mortgage defaults, as well as the recession in the US and European countries were

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

part of the problems.

The Nigerian capital market was not exempt in the global financial crisis, as the NSE ASI dropped 49.0 per cent in 2008, caused in part, by foreign portfolio investors who exited the Nigerian stock market to cover tosses in other markets,” Agbaje said.

He pointed out that foreign portfolio investors represented a significant portion of investors in the Nigerian stock market, saying the capital flight adversely impacted the market and acted as one of the catalysts to the crash of the stock market.

He also identified the militancy in the Niger Delta region which according to him disrupted oil production and the slack in the lending margin rules by financial institutions, as contributing to mark down fortunes of the market. “ This led to banks becoming extremely flush with capital and, in a bid to deliver returns to shareholders, banks increased their lending activi-

stream oil and gas and to stockbrokers and individuals, given the lack of regulatory framework for margin lending at this time,” Agbaje said.

He said if the sector must emerge from the problem, regulators of the stock market need to focus on building confidence of investors and protecting them by ensuring that operators obey the rules and regulations guiding the sector.

He said the Securities and Exchange Commission must ensure that its rules and regulations are properly, objectively and robustly enforced to protect investors and punish violations that undermine investor confidence. This will go a long way to restore trust and credibility of the Nigerian capital market.

Director-General, Debt Management Office, Abraham Nwankwo, said Nigeria would have witnessed a more devastating situation in the capital market, had the Federal Government bond not provided an alternative investment outlet for investors with long term funds.

He also urged the regulators to be alive to their responsibilities.

Nwankwo said SEC and the management of Nigerian Stock Exchange should come up with a blue print on how to resuscitate and sustain the capital market in order to move the sector forward.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 3-5-12

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

57

MONEY LINK

Our accounts are audited by AGF, says CBN

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HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday refuted the allegation that it neither audits its accounts annually nor presents it to the Federal Government.

In a statement from its Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mr Ugochukwu A. Okoroafor, the apex bank said its accounts are duly audited by the Accountant General of the Federation.

The banking watchdog also stressed that contrary to the allusion that membership of the CBN board of Directors is dominated by appointees from within the institution; all members of its board are appointees of the President and are confirmed by the Senate.

In debating on the motion to

By Akinola Ajibade amend the CBN Act, which passed through a second reading at the House of Representatives, a member of the House had said that out of the 12 members of the board as presently constituted; only the Accountant General of the Federation and the representatives of the Ministry of Finance were from outside the CBN. The bill provides for the appointment of a person, other than the CBN Governor, as the Chairman and the exclusion of CBN Deputy Governors and Directors as members of the bank’s Board of Directors.

But the CBN spokesman said that the misrepresentation was that the CBN board actually has only two external and five internal

members.

“In view of the weighty implications of these misrepresentations, it has become necessary to put the records straight. The financial year of the CBN ends on the 31st of December of each year and the audited annual accounts is usually ready in February in line with the provisions of Section 50 (1) of the CBN Act. No 7 of 2007.

“It is important to state that for the preparation of its annual accounts, the CBN employs the services of two international reputable accounting firms (among the big 8), based on the approval of the President.

“Upon the completion of the audit exercise, the Bank makes the accounts available to the Presidency and to the National Assembly

through the latter’s relevant Committees. In addition, the CBN is audited by the Auditor-General of the Federation and appears before the Public Accounts Committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives to answer questions arising from the report,” he explained.

The CBN’s spokesman said that the banking watchdog had never been in default of the aforementioned provisions and had been diligent in compliance since the passage of the Act. “Similarly, the CBN has always forwarded each year, seven copies each of the Audited Accounts and Management Letters to both the Auditor General of the Federation and the Accountant–General of the Federation.

Letters of acknowledgement in this relevant

First Bank finances oil, gas projects with N500b

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IRST Bank of Nigeria Plc, said it advanced over N500 billion in financing oil and gas projects in Nigeria, last year. This, the lender said, enhanced local capacity development and in-country value, and in addition, making it the leading financial institution that supported the oil industry.

First Bank’s Executive Director, Corporate Banking, Kehinde Lawanson, disclosed this during his

By Emeka Ugwuanyi, in Houston Texas, United States

presentation at a forum organised for international petroleum professionals and investors at the on-going Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), in Houston, Texas.

Lawanson said the amount represented the total financing by the bank for the upstream, midstream, and downstream sub-sectors of the oil and gas

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By Collins Nweze The tax would be assessed on large banks, investment funds and corporations participating in wholesale foreign exchange system with a minimal rate of 0.005 per cent and without any additional cost.

industry.

He said some of the bank’s financing activities include, funding of rig acquisition for indigenous operators, financing lines to indigenous fabricators for oil and gas contracts, funding specialised vessel acquisition scheme for local content support and supporting major pipeline distribution and gas infrastructural development projects in several communities.

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HE Board of Directors of Com monwealth Business Council (CBC) has appointed Access Bank’s Group Managing DirectorAigboje Aig-Imoukhuede to its board.

CBC is an international organisation committed to fostering the business interest of individuals and corporate organisations among commonwealth nations.

A statement from the bank said the appointment was formally announced at the board meeting of the CBC, held recently. “I am glad to accept this new responsibility to serve. Given the extensive work and impact being made by the CBC globally, I look forward to the privileged opportunity the CBC provides to collaborate with other global

Regional Coordinator, West and Central Africa, United Nations Millennium Campaign (UNMC), Nelson Muffuh, said Nigeria, like other countries, needs much more than what is available for aid and has to be supported to mobilise its share of these funds locally.

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 150m 150m 138m 138m

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

GAINERS AS AT 3-5-12 SYMBOL

WAPCO FIRSTBANK NAHCO UBA ZENITHBANK DANGFLOUR ACCESS DIAMONDBNK OANDO PAINTCOM

O/PRICE

39.80 10.47 8.10 3.66 14.86 4.31 6.16 2.55 16.12 0.92

C/PRICE

41.79 10.99 8.50 3.84 15.59 4.52 6.46 2.67 16.87 0.96

113m

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

O/PRICE 3.60 3.42 0.81 5.70 5.98 4.15 1.90 34.50 1.18 11.69

C/PRICE 3.42 3.25 0.77 5.42 5.69 3.95 1.81 33.01 1.13 11.20

CHANGE 0.18 0.17 0.04 0.28 0.29 0.20 0.09 1.49 0.05 0.49

29-2-12 27-2-12

113m

155.7

22-2-12

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Dec ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 12.6%

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

NSE CAP Index

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

Date

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 3-5-12

SYMBOL UPL ETERNAOIL NEIMETH FCMB INTBREW SKYEBANK MAYBAKER OKOMUOIL IKEJAHOTEL ETI

Exchange Rate (N) 155.8 155.8

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

CHANGE

1.99 0.52 0.40 0.18 0.73 0.21 0.30 0.12 0.75 0.04

113m

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES OBB Rate Call Rate

leaders to advance our common economic interests,” Aigboje said.

His appointment is in recognition of his sterling qualities as one of Africa’s leading business leaders and change agents committed to the socio-economic transformation of the continent. He is also on the judging panel of the G-20 Challenge on Inclusive Business Innovation, which comprising 12 renowned experts selected from the private sector, academia, international organisations and the G-20. The G20 Challenge on Inclusive Business Innovation is a global search for businesses with innovative, scalable, and commercially viable ways of working with low-income people in developing countries across the globe.

DATA BANK

Tenor

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

matter are usually published in national dailies.

“Sections 6 (1) and (2) of the CBN Act 2007, provide for 12 members of the Board; five internal and seven external. The Governor and the four Deputy Governors comprise the internal membership,” he added.

Access Bank’s CEO gets board appointment

UN targets $40b to bridge funding gaps HE United Nations Develop ment Programme (UNDP) is considering a fairer tax system on banks’ foreign exchange transactions that would enable it earn over $40 billion annually for developmental projects across the globe.

•CBN Governor, Sanusi Lamido

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE 9.17 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 122.59 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 103.35 THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.74 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.08 BGL NUBIAN FUND 0.89 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,702.66 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 8.13 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 7,259.48 THE DISCOVERY FUND 193.00 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

9.08 1.00 122.48 103.00 0.72 1.08 0.88 1,696.26 7.74 1.33 1.80 7,071.36 191.08 1.62

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous 04 July, 2011

Current 07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

58

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

59

NEWS

Niger seeks release of withheld councils’ allocation N

IGER State yesterday urged the Federal Government to release the statutory allocation of the local government areas placed under emergency rule since January. It said the non release of the funds is making life unbearable for civil servants and primary school teachers in the affected councils.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Yussuf Tagwai, made the appeal in Minna while announcing the budget of the 25 local government areas.

Tagwai, who specifically mentioned Suleja Local Government, lamented that besides the dwindling economic fortunes of the council, the emergency rule has crippled administrative activities.

He said: “Times are hard for Suleja council. The declaration of state of emergency in the local government has begun to take its toll. Civil servants and teachers are being owed four months salaries and allowances due to withholding of the council’s allocation by

Reps to Fed Govt: release funds

H

OUSE of Representatives yesterday called on the Federal Government to pay the monthly allocations to the 15 local government areas placed under emergency rule.

The House said the release of the funds would help the councils to pay the salaries of their workers.

The resolution followed a motion moved by Bitrus Kaze (PDP-Plateau), which was unanimously adopted without debate when put to vote by Speaker Aminu Tambuwal.

The House had in a March 15 resolution urged the Federal Government to pay 15 councils.

The allocations include outstanding statutory funds due to the affected council areas but being withheld because `of the emergency rule pursuant to the provisions of Section 162 (5) of the 1999 Constitution.

The Presidency, on December 31, last year, proclaimed emergency rule in some parts of Borno, Niger, Plateau and Yobe states.

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

the Federal Government.

“We appeal to the Federal Government to release the allocation of the council alongside others in the affected states because things are getting harder for these councils.”

The commissioner urged the people to continue to bear

the situation because the government decision is in their interest.

The Federal Government declared a state of emergency in Suleja Local Government and 14 others following incessant bomb attacks by the Boko Haram sect in the beginning of this year.

The 25 local government areas in the state are to spend over N50.3 billion for capital and recurrent expenditure during the 2012 fiscal year.

The commissioner said of the amount, N42.3 billion will be statutory allocation from the federation account; N1.4 billion will be generated internally.

Giving a breakdown of the budget, Tagwai said N30.9 billion would be committed to recurrent expenditure; N19.4 would be for capital projects.

The commissioner decried the poor Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) base of the councils and vowed that efforts would be made to reverse the trend.

He listed the construction of modern garages for trailers across the state as part of the steps being considered.

Tagwai said modern markets would be constructed, while existing ones would be relocated to safer areas, adding that the projects would be handled through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) policy.

Alleged certificate forgery: Suswam opens defence today

G

OVERNOR Gabriel Suswam’s opponent in last year’s governorship primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Terver Kakih, yesterday closed his submission of evidence in the alleged certificate forgery case against the governor.

Suswam is expected to open his defence today and prove that he won the governorship primary election and was duly qualified to contest as the PDP candidate in the election.

At the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday at the Federal High Court, Makurdi, the Chief Registrar of the Magistrate’s Court 2, Abuja (FCT), Kamkumi

Opposition’s propaganda ‘ll not deter Kwankwaso, says commissioner From Kolade Adeyemi,

K

Kano

ANO State Commissioner for Projects Monitoring Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo has said Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso would not be perturbed “by this campaign of calumny.”

Gwarzo, who also doubles as the Vice Chairman of the Kwankwasiyya Committee, a body set up to mark Kwankwaso’s one year in office, added: “Instead, Kwankwaso will be determined to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Kano State and will remain resolute in his quest to transform the state.”

The commissioner who spoke at a press conference in Kano yesterday while unfolding the activities lined up by the state government to mark its one year in office, noted that the Kwankwaso administration is committed to the delivery of quality service to Kano indigenes.

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

Muhammed, who was subpoenaed by the court, tendered two documents.

They are Suswam’s letter of complaint to the police and the investigation report of the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) over the activities of Chigozie Ukpabi, Dan Ekah and Power Sterling magazine, whom he (Suswam) accused of blackmailing him.

However, counsel to Suswam, who is the fourth respondent in the matter, Jubrin Okutepa (SAN), objected to the admissibility of the documents, saying the procedure used was not ten-

able in law.

West African Examinations Council (WAEC) counsel Gideon Enebeli told the court that the methodology of admission was deformed as the chief registrar was not a witness.

Also at yesterday’s sitting, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) told the court that they could not produce the documents which the court ordered for because they were not within their reach.

INEC counsel Echo Peter Echo said the documents were submitted to the Benue State Election Petition Tribunal and some were with his client’s external solicitor.

Zamfara civil servants resist retirement From Isah Idris, Gusau

C

IVIL servants in Zamfara State are now reluctant to retire because of the delay in receiving pensions and gratuities.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Zamfara State chapter, Abdullahi Umar Madomawa, who spoke with reporters on Tuesday in Gusau, the state capital, said the arrears of gratuity and pension were scaring civil servants from retiring even when they are due.

Madomawa, in his Workers’ Day address, said the unpaid arrears of gratuity and pension amounted to about N800 million, excluding the local government workers’ arrears, “and this is already creating fears among the workers due for retirement.”

He lamented a situation where workers who retired from the civil service wait for at least two years before getting a fraction of their retirement benefits, including those that died in active service.

Funeral for ex-IGP Okiro’s wife May 12

T

HE funeral rites for Dr.Hera Okiro, wife of ex-Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mike Okiro begin on May 9 with a service of songs at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja at 6 pm. On May 12, she will lie-in-state from 8am to 9am at Sir Mike Okiro Compound, Obiakpu, Egbema, Imo State. Requiem Mass/ Interment holds by 10am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Obiakpu, Egbema

•The late Mrs Okiro

and reception follows immediately. Thanksgiving/ Outing Service holds the following day at the same venue from 10am.

The court had subpoenaed INEC to produce Form CF 001, INEC’s reply to Saror and Ugba’s petition and statement of witness on oaths.

Justice Marcel Awokulehin adjourned the case till today for the defence.

Niger grants amnesty to 161 rioters From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

N

IGER State Government has granted amnesty to 161 persons suspected to have been involved in the protest against Federal Government’s removal of fuel subsidy in January in some parts of Minna, the state capital.

Twenty-three others who have confessed to committing the crime will, however, face prosecution.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Alhaji Abdullahi Bawa Wuse, announced the gesture at a press conference in Minna yesterday.

He said the government decided to grant amnesty to the suspected rioters because there was no evidence to continue with their prosecution.

The commissioner said the pardon was also in line with government’s spirit of forgiveness to anyone remorseful.

Speaking through the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Ndagi Wali, the Attorney-General however, said, the people would have to undertake a bond to be of good behaviour, while their activities would be monitored by the security agencies.

He said the 23 others would face a four-count charge of rioting, unlawful assembly, causing previous hurt and rioting, adding that the five magistrate’s courts trying the accused persons would expedite the trial.

Aliyu mourns Yisa-Doko From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

G

OVERNOR Babangida Aliyu of Niger State has commiserated with the family of Nigeria’s first indigenous Chief of Air Staff (COAS), Air- Vice Marshal John Nmadu Yisa-Doko, who died on Tuesday after a brief illness in his Kaduna home.

He urged members of the Yisa-Doko family and the Nigerian Air Force to be encouraged by the fact that the late Air Force chief lived an inspiring and fulfilled life.

Funeral for man PA Gabriel Egbedion Igene, who died at 73, will be buried today at Ugbegun, Ikekogbe in Esan Central Local Government of Edo State.

A statement by Abraham Edo Igene said the late Pa Igene is survived by wife, children and grandchildren.

•The late Igene

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

60

NEWS

Clark, others seek out-of-court settlement in dispute over Ibru’s asset

E

LDER statesman Chief Edwin Clark, his brother, Prof. J.P Clark and a relative yesterday told a Federal High Court in Lagos of their intention to withdraw the suit filed by Mrs Maiden Ibru, widow of the late Alex Ibru and settle the matter.

Clark, who was granted audience despite objection from Mrs Ibru’s lawyer, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, told the court that the continuation of the case would likely have negative implication on the image and name of the Ibru family.

He expressed displeasure with some recent conduct by the deceased’s widow, noting that by allegedly throwing ‘’a lavish party’’ recently, few months after her husband’s death, Mrs Ibru acted contrary to the custom and tradition of their people.

Clark, who claimed they were related to the Ibru family, said: “ I am 85 years. Two months ago, the husband of the plaintiff died and we participated in the burial. We are first cousins to the petitioner.

“The Ibru family will be in jeopardy if the case is allowed

By Eric Ikhilae

to continue. The respondent, Goodie, came to me in Abuja in the presence of the Bishop of the Anglican Church, asking me to intervene”.

He argued that for not waiting for at least, six months after her husband’s death, in line with their custom, to celebrate, showed she was not a good wife.

At that stage, Justice Mohammed Liman interjected and advised that he should not be seen to have already taken side through his insinuations.

The judge noted that his utterance did not reflect his impartiality, adding “If you intend to do anything, it must come through the parties. The parties will express their readiness for reconciliation, but for now, my hands are tied. There is nothing I can do”.

The judge also refused an application by Clark and others to be allowed to intervene in the case with a view to ensuring a possible amicable settlement. The court reached its decision on the application after entertaining arguments from parties.

At the commencement of

‘The Ibru family will be in jeopardy if the case is allowed to continue. The respondent, Goodie, came to me in Abuja in the presence of the Bishop of the Anglican Church, asking me to intervene’ proceedings, their lawyer, Olukayode Ajulo told the court that Clark and others were in court with the expectation of being accorded an opportunity to settle the case amicably in order to prevent bringing the Ibru’s family to public ridicule.

Ajulo said Clark and others were also personally in court to correct some impression made against them at the last adjourned date.

He told the court that, the elder statesmen wanted to be given the opportunity, as cousins to the parties, to settle the

case amicably since the Ibrus’ name will be brought to public shame if the case is allowed to proceed in court.

When asked by the court whether the rule of court permits their intervention, having not been a party in the case, Ajulo argued that the court’s rule allows amicable settlement of disputes.

He said:“At the last adjourned date, we wrote a letter for a little time to intervene. By the rule to ensure justice and settlement of case,particularly where there is room for settlement , we said give us a little time to settle out of court amicably. That was when the learned counsel regarded us as loafers and busy bodies.

“Order 18 of the Federal High Court Rules allow us.

Though it is at the discretion of the court, and that was why we wrote to the court. It is like a fall out of what happened at the court in order to place the information properly,” he said.

These exchanges later occurred: Court: “Should such application not come from one of

the parties?

Ajulo: “The parties are our families and relations. We intend to file application as a joinder”.

Court: “ If is for the purpose of settling the disputes, they are not intervening judiciously. They can intervene through the parties to explore settlement moves. For that to work, it must come through the parties. The rules clearly stated that. They cannot come through judicial process, they lacked the locus to come this way. I am afraid at this stage, I cannot see the role of the elder statesmen.

Earlier, Braithwaite, had in his objection sought to know under what rules Clark and others were being allowed to make their application.

He said: “I am at a loss at their statements, and wonder under what rules or law or procedures of which the counsel is making his application.

I urged the court to dismiss it.

Respondent’s lawyer, Onyebuchi Aniakor said Ajulo had told him about his client’s planned intention, and he said they were welcomed only if their application will not af-

fect the business of the court for the day.

Braithwaite kicked against the audience granted Clark, saying “ I am a stickler to the law and due process. Clark said he want to make his point, he came to the court of justice to insult the petitioner. “ Too much indulgence is being granted to him to make derogatory remarks to the petitioner.

“I leave the court to its conscience for allowing the court to be used to make derogatory statements against the petitioner,”.

Justice Liman refused oral application by Braithwaithe that reporters be prevented from reporting what transpired in court in respect of the case.

Braithwaite later moved his application for leave to advertise his client’s petition to wind up Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc, owners of Federal Palace Hotel, for alleged being indebted to Omamo Investment Corporation, the company on whose behalf Mrs Ibru initiated the winding up proceedings.

The court has fixed May 11 for ruling on whether or not to grant the application for leave to advertise.

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www.thenationonlineng.net

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 7,

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

PDP and the burden of history: An update

•PDP Chairman Bamanga Tukur

closeness of the first republic to our traditional histories, the egoism that has blossomed since 1979 was muted. And so we were still able to count on the Awolowos, the Azikwes and the Bellos, to advance the cause of national development and they did, given the resources at their disposal. This is why that era continues to present itself as a standard of republican political commitment and selfless dedication to the national cause.

Most of the players that have populated the field of politics since 1979, including a good number of those who were key participants in the first republic have typically developed a new paradigm of political engagement and it has grown worse by the year. There is now a clear identification of politics with business and the motive is maximised profit for the investors and shareholders. The political

Please don’t ENDANGER your HEART

party which used to be organised around competing ideas about how to move the national agenda forward is now for practical purposes organised around the sharing of profits.

The party that best illustrates this business conception of politics is the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), a political party which, interestingly, has an ancestral line that it has not betrayed.

By its own estimation, the PDP is the largest political party in Africa. This in itself must place on the party and its leadership a special burden of history to move the most despised continent, with the highest number of negative statistics in the most negative indices of development: poverty, violence, disease, ignorance, debt burden etc. It is hard to see any other continent in the same league with Africa in these areas. And from recent surveys, Nigeria, the home of the largest political party in Africa, competes with the lowliest of the lowliest in these grim statistics. This raises the question: what is the raison d’être of a political party that controls so much human and material resources and is unable to move a nation forward?

The answer to this last question can only be speculative. But the speculation is not without a sound basis. If you are crowned as the king of eagles, and you are unable to capture chickens, either or both of two things must be the matter. You are not really worthy of the crown or your interest is in some other direction.

The foregoing paragraphs were first penned shortly after the Uwais Commission on Electoral Reform submitted its report. It was former Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Uwais who then agonised over the

HARDBALL

burden of history that PDP carried, wondering whether the party and its leadership are up to the task of seizing the moment.

The PDP government had set up a committee outside of the National Assembly to submit recommendations for overhauling the electoral system which every Nigerian confirmed required fixing. The committee worked hard and submitted a report. The administration vandalised the report, picking and choosing what it felt posed no danger to its hegemony. That is the mindset of a business entrepreneur, not a statesman, and certainly not the mind of a party capable of leading the transformation of the nation.

The PDP has since won another general election at the centre and still controls all the branches of the Federal Government. Indeed, the party has become so convinced of its superiority over all other political parties that it now considers it below its status to join issues with other political parties which it would rather have its zonal and state offices deal with. In other words, the national office of PDP will henceforth have nothing to do with other political parties. Hubris has no other face.

The only rational justification for a political party entering the competition for the acquisition of power in an election is to make positive impact in the lives of citizens. If after thirteen years of governing, the PDP cannot point to any significant achievement it has made or any tangible improvement it has brought about in the lives of Nigerians, what can possibly be the basis of its self-glorification? So what if it is the largest political party in Africa? What difference does that fact make in the lives of Nigerians?

An opposition party has the responsibility to call attention to the flaws in the policies and programmes of the ruling party. That responsibility is owed, not only to its members but to Nigerians as a whole. People have to understand the stark differences in the approach of different political associations and what can be done differently with what results.

When the ruling party assumes the posture of invincibility, the suggestion is that no matter what anyone does or says, in spite of its demonstrated inefficiency and ineffectiveness in dealing with the major challenges of insecurity, youth unemployment, endemic poverty and disease, it will always prevail and rule the country. Such an assumption never ends well for any nation and the PDP must prepare to take full responsibility for the consequences of its hubristic posturing.

•For comments, send SMS to 08057634061

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

CAN can’t give ‘final warning’ on terrorism

RIPPLES I’M AN AMERICAN, BUT A NIGERIAN AT HEART-American

NO. 2115

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

T

HERE is an amazing number of imponderables that we are forced to live with in our world. They beg for meaning but the human mind finds it a challenging task. Surely, science tries to assure us of the intelligibility of causal relations. A brake failure at high speed probably will cause an accident and the cause of the brake failure can be explained mechanically. Yet the mind is not settled; it seeks for more: why is an innocent baby killed in her mother’s arms by a stray bullet? It is not supposed to be that way. The world is not supposed to behave that way. Or think about hurricanes and tsunamis which end the lives of countless numbers of infant babies. Why are they born into the world only to be taken away without a warning? It is the stuff that the world of mystery is made of. We are at the mercy of a web of conspiracies by some malevolent powers beyond us. We are just puns in the chessboard of some evil genius.

This is the narrative of our individual lives.

It is the frame of reference with which we perceive our world. It is how we mythologise reality. The imponderables are the frame through which reality presents itself, or more correctly, through which we impose our search for meaning upon reality. For reality is what it is, even if what we perceive is different. And we perceive it the way we do, because we convince ourselves that it is more than it really is. There must be more to the bare facts of a tornado: it must contain some evil spirit meant specifically for us. This is our world.

There is of course an internal conflict within our system of meaning. We do not generally acknowledge chance events. Our individual narratives are framed by a worldview that privileges an agency beyond self, and seeks meaning in the activities of such external agencies.

Our collective history however does not always respect this general tendency dictated by our worldview. Some choose a different path, conjuring a different narrative, finding meaning in the self. Taking their lives in their hands, they chart a course for the advancement of the self and the community.

This is the story of most nations. The warrior class, the priestly class and the political class of our traditional societies emerged at critical moments of a people’s history with purposive intervention. The Oduduwas, the Dan Fodios, the Oranmiyans, the Abioduns, the Ogendengbes, the Lisabis, of our history were exemplars of nation builders. They dared nature for the good of all. That is why we still pay tribute to them.

Then we transited from traditionalism to republicanism and with this transition emerged a mindset of self-advancement without the corresponding motive force of community advancement in tow. Because of the

TOMORROW IN THE NATION ‘Incompetent leaders inadvertently encourage rebellion and insurrection and upset a balance of terror that is needed to make government guarantee that minimal force, or at least a show of it, to deter opposition, especially the violent or military type, to their rule and policies.?

DAYO SOBOWALE

I

F their lives were all about politics alone, perhaps the members and leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)

could rightly make political statements and stand by them, and even be both legally and doctrinally justified. But they profess to be all about God’s business, and they say they understand the Almighty in ways the ordinary person can’t. It was therefore curious that in the early days when the Islamist sect Boko Haram and other aggrieved persons, particularly in Plateau State, attacked Christians and their places of worship, CAN was at first tempted to warn that no one had monopoly of violence, and that Christians could exercise their right of self-defence to repulse the attacks. Wise counsel appeared to have prevailed in those tense days, and the wise counsel even seemed to have endured until now.

But some two days ago, CAN seemed to have stirred itself again, a little rather improperly. First was Archbishop John Onaiyekan who in spiritual company with the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ngeria, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, described the federal government as weak in tackling the Boko Haram problem. Said Onaiyekan: “It has become clear that we have a weak government that has

put together a whole lot of compromises.

That means that the action that should be taking place is not taking place.” Both bishops were appalled by the Bayero University killings, and the irrational attempts to justify them by the terrorists. They concluded that they had become apprehensive of the consequences of these unrestrained killings.

The views of the President of CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, were even more trenchant, more impatient, and more ominous. Considering the position he occupies in Nigeria’s Christian community, his pains can be understood. According to him, attacking people’s businesses, burning churches and killing Christians were designed “to instil fear with the subsequent aim of eradicating religious freedom and democratic liberties, with the church and Christianity as primary targets. Arguing that what was unfolding was pure religious ideology and not reaction to poverty, Oritsejafor concluded: “My first call to all peace loving Nigerians is to remain calm in the face of all the insecurity challenges as I am aware the greater part of the overall design is to instil fear in the populace.”

But the CAN president added this clincher: “I will now make final call to the Nigerian government to use all resources available to it to clearly define and neutralise the prob-

lem as other nations have done…The church leadership has put great restraint on the restive and aggrieved millions of Nigerians but can no longer guarantee such cooperation if this trend of terror is not halted immediately.” Christians are right to feel aggrieved, and CAN is justified to want to protect its members. But surely CAN leaders must also remind themselves that their faith is anchored on loving their enemies, turning the other cheek, blessing those who curse them, and praying for those who despitefully use them.

Whenever they are tempted to lose their patience, they must recall their history of the victories they wrought on their knees, knowing full well that what they cannot defeat in the spirit can never be defeated in the physical. It is inconceivable that they have forgotten how a few of their patriarchs, spending interminable hours and days on their knees and on empty stomachs, brought the mighty Roman Empire to its knees without lifting a sword. None of the Archbishops or CAN leaders has the right to speak the way they spoke two days ago, threatening fire for fire, warning of patience about to be lost, or restive flock eager to take up weapons. These are the times they need to remind themselves of what their holy book say about the weapons of their warfare, and of the need to go back to basics.

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