The Nation May 11, 2012

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

EFCC to arraign Rep Hembe May 17

Govt okays N50b subsidy for power

NEWS

NEWS

Page 59

Page 11

•Anti-graft agency gets court’s nod

•New electricity tariff from June 1

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VOL. 7, NO. 2120 FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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Boko Haram: Fed Govt calls for ceasefire Traditional rulers to lead peace talks

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HE Federal Government was yesterday holding out an olive branch to the Boko Haram insurgents, saying it is ready for talks.

“Government is ready to discuss. History has proven that even wars that are fought for decades, at the end, are only concluded by dialogue,” Vice President Namadi Sambo said.

He spoke in Abuja at the national symposium organised by the NasirulLahi-Faith Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) on “Islam and peaceful co-existence in

From Gbade Ogunwale, Kamarudeen Ogundele, Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja and Tony Akowe, Kaduna

a contemporary multi religious society”.

To negotiate with the sect, the government may enlist the assistance of traditional rulers, according to Defence Minister Haliru Bello, who spoke while receiving the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria; Mr. Roberto Colamine, in his office.

He said: “The concern of the government is peace and what the government is doing is for the benefit of all

NJC approves Salami’s return

I am not aware of any reli‘gion in the world that encourages unprovoked and relentless attack on other people Nigerians.”

Sambo lamented the activities of some negative forces whose actions have portrayed Islam in a negative and evil light, saying: “Islam is a religion of peace; it is a way of life. It cannot promote senseless killings and wanton destruction of property. I am

’

not aware of any religion in the world that encourages unprovoked and relentless attack on other people.”

He reiterated the determination of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration to provide adequate security for the lives and property of all Nigerians and visitors.

Sambo highlighted the strides the administration had recorded in achieving the objectives of the Transformation Agenda which, he said, cut across improved electricity supply; education; agriculture, transportation system; and poverty alleviation.

The Vice President said to deliver on the government’s promise on the revitalisation of the Railway system, the government had signed an MoU with General Electric for the delivery of 200 locomotive heads and also for the Continued on page 2

•Sambo ... yesterday

OLAITAN OYERINDE (1967 - 2012)

•Council writes Jonathan From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

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INE months after he was suspended, Justice Isa Ayo Salami is to return to his job as the President of the Court of Appeal.

The National Judicial Council (NJC), which met yesterday in Abuja, adopted the recommendation to reinstate him.

The recommendation has been sent to President Goodluck Jonathan for approval, it was learnt.

The meeting agreed with a five-member panel headed by the incoming Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Maryam Aloma Mukhtar.

Details of the NJC session were unknown yesterday, but a source said the recommendation was adopted in the interest of the judiciary and the way forward.

Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi has hailed the recommendation, saying truth has finally prevailed.

Fayemi, in a statement last night, hailed the NJC for its uncommon courage.

He also praised Justice Salami for his refusal to compromise despite •Justice Salami

Continued on page 2

•A crowd of students during the burial service for the late Comrade Abdul-Kabir Olaitan Oyerinde, Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s murdered principal private secretary at the NYSC Camp, Ede, Osun State ... yesterday.

SEE ALSO PAGE 4

•RUMPUS IN KWARA ASSEMBLY OVER FRAUD ALLEGATION P58

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

NEWS

NJC recommends Salami’s return Buck back on President’s table

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•Dr Jonathan Continued from page 1

the months of persecution.

He said the recommendation of Justice Salami has sounded the death knel for vote robbers.

Justice Salami was suspended by the NJC on August 18, last year, following his refusal to apologise to the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloysius Katsina-Alu, for allegedly lying on oath against him.

He had accused the former CJN of asking him to compromise the then Sokoto Court of Appeal hearing the appeal of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) in favourt of Governor Aliyu Wamako.

The committee, headed by Justice Mukhtar, was saddled with the responsibility of reconciling Justice Katsina-Alu and Justice Salami.

It was also asked to review the recommendations of a 29member stakeholders’ Judi-

HE buck went right back to the table of President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday, as the National Judicial Council (NJC), meeting in Abuja, wrote to the President, advising him to reinstate Justice Isa Ayo Salami, the president of the Court of Appeal, suspended on 18 August 2011.

Justice Salami was suspended at the 7th emergency meeting of the NJC, following his reported refusal to tender apologies to former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloysius Katsina-Alu, over allegations that the former CJN tried to influence the Court of Appeal under Justice Salami over the appeal in the Sokoto governorship case.

The meeting, which became contentious and controversial over the apparent high-handedness of its decision and the question of quorum, held that the Court of Appeal president could not substantiate his allegations against the CJN, and therefore ordered him to apologise. The failure to do so led to the suspension. That meeting also recommended that Justice Salami be retired by the President.

cial Reform Committee raised by the incumbent CJN, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, on October 14, to review the crises in the judiciary recommended Justice Salami’s reinstatement.

The committee was headed by a former CJN, Justice Muhammadu Uwais.

A sub-committee of the panel, including Justice Mamman Nasir, Justice U. Kalgo and Justice Bola

By Olakunle Abimbola

But after another meeting yesterday, the NJC voted for Justice Salami’s reinstatement, and wrote the President immediately after.

Yesterday’s decision followed a chain of events: Justice Salami went to court to challenge his suspension; President Jonathan, acting on the NJC’s decision and Justice Salami’s legal challenge, appointed an acting PCA pending the time the legal disputes were sorted out, and no less than two high-profile legal committees to review the NJC recommendations. Both committees recommended that Justice Salami be reinstated.

But thePresident, accused by political opponents of partisan haste in the matter, held that his decision was based on the recommendation of a statutory body and that his perceived haste was to prevent a vacuum in the office of the PCA, at least pending the final resolution of the matter by the courts.

Said Dr. Reuben Abati, the President’s spokesperson, on the charge that the president’s action was

Ajibola, had asked the CJN and the NJC to reinstate Justice Salami back to his position.

The Committee upheld the decisions of the sub-committee and recommended Justice Salami’s reinstatement.

Justice Salami is billed for retirement next year.

The 29-member Stakeholders Judicial Reform Committee, which okayed that Justice

politically motivated: “The President has provided an opportunity to stay within the law and to fill the vacuum that has been created. It is the duty of the judiciary ultimately within the framework of the law to resolve the matter.”

That judicial resolution came yesterday, with the NJC voting to reinstate the jurist, who many perceive a victim of political manoeuvring following the voiding of the rigged governorship elections of Edo, Ondo, Ekiti and Osun states, all of them taken from the candidates of the federal ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Will the President act promptly on the NJC recommendation to reinstate Justice Salami as he had acted on the same body’s recommendation to suspend him?

If he does, he would have justified his claim that he had no interest in the matter and that he was only following the dictates of the law. But should he tarry, he would have been guilty as alleged that the Salami suspension was only a legal cover-up for partisan political vendetta.

Salami return to office, it also recommended his reconciliation with Justice Katsina-Alu. The committee also advised Justice Salami to withdraw all the cases he has instituted in court as part of the reconciliation being sought in the judiciary.

Other recommendations include: •the appointment of CJN from outside the rank of the

Justices of the Supreme Court should be considered by the Federal Judicial Service Commission; •the need to reform the system of appointment of judges by giving preference to court room experience and decision in legal practice; and •the number of years for which a lawyer needs to be qualified prior to consideration for appointment as a

Judge of the High Court should be increased from 10 years to minimum of 15 years post-call experience, 20 years post-call experience for the Court of Appeal and 25 years post call experience for the Supreme Court.

Members of the committee include former CJNs S.M.A. Belgore, Idris L. Kutigi and A.I. Katsina-Alu, Mamman Nasir (former PCA), A.G. Karibi-Whyte, Mustapha Akanbi, Umaru Abdullahi (former PCA), Kayode Eso (rtd. JSC), Umaru A. Kalgo (rtd. JSC) and Rose N. Ukeje (former CJ, Federal High Court).

Others are: Justice R.P.I. Bozimo (former Chief Judge, Delta State), Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi (Chief Judge, FCT), Joseph Daudu, SAN (NBA President), Chief Richard O. Akinjide SAN (former A-GF), Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim (SAN), (former AGF), Dr. A.G.F. AbdulRazak (SAN) and Anthony O. Mogboh SAN. There are also former NBA Presidents T.J.O. Okpoko, Wole Olanipekun (SAN), O.C.J. Okocha (SAN), Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu (SAN) and Prince Lanke Odogiyan, Esq. Other members are: Hajiya Hairat Balogun, Prof.

Epiphany Azinge (SAN), (Director-General, National Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, NIALS), Dr. Mamman Tahir (DirectorGeneral, Nigerian Law School) and Mr. A.B. Mahmud (SAN).

Boko Haram: Fed Govt calls for ceasefire Continued from page 1

location of a locomotive manufacturing plant in Nigeria, which would serve the West African sub-region.

He hoped that the activities of militant groups would not jeopardise the government’s desire to propel Foreign Direct Investment (FDIs).

Describing the security challenges posed by the sect as temporary, the Minister stressed that the challenges were restricted to a few local governments in the Northeastern zone.

Bello assured the envoy of President Goodluck Jonathan’s desire to make the difference in governance, in line with the administration’s transformation agenda.

He said a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Nigerian and the Italian governments was awaiting the Federal Executive Council’s ratification.

According to him, the MOU would enhance Nigeria’s peace keeping efforts.

The Ambassador had called for dialogue in the resolution of Nigeria’s security challenges. He agreed with the Minister that the ratification of the MOU would strengthen the relationship between the two countries.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, urged the Muslim Ummah to champion peaceful co-existence and education.

He also called on religious leaders to be mindful of their utterances so as not to overheat the polity, adding that aggrieved groups should embrace dialogue.

The Sultan dispelled rumour that there are plans to islamize Nigeria.

He said: “If there is such plan, I should know because I was once in the military. We should trust ourselves. I wish to assure Christians that we are one big family created by Allah.

Lamenting that impunity has become the order of the day, the Sultan who co-chairs the Nigeria Inter-religious Council (NIREC) with Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President, Ayo Oritsejafor, urged Muslims to promote peace and mutual co-existence in line with the Holy Quran.

Oritsejafor was represented by his Special Adviser on Conflict Resolution and Terrorism, Pastor Ladi Thompson The Sultan said: “We must promote moderation and toleration in our society. We must equally open effective channels of dialogue with all segments of the society, including those who hold contrary opinions to that of our own.

“Islamic civilization both here and elsewhere is predicated on the promotion of learning not only in the religions sciences but also in Science and Technology. The conflcit between faith and science did not originate in the Muslim world. Muslim civilization bequeathed to the world the study of Science and Technology. The time has come for Muslims to strive harder to reclaim this golden legacy. “….peace cannot be fully

•From left, Representative of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Thompson; Sultan Abubakar; Primate (Church of Nigeria) Anglican Communion, Most Revd. Nicholas Okoh and the guest speaker/Osun Governor Aregbesola at symposium at Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja ... yesterday

established without an unflinching commitment to equity and justice. We must strive to promote these pivotal values in our society. Injustice and inequity invariably lead to corruption which in turn breed poverty and dissension. No society can thrive and prosper when afflicted with these deadly vices.

“I must also point out that for the purposes of peacebuilding in our society, leaders on all sides of the religious divide, must act responsibly and exercise utmost caution in both their actions and their utterances. We must endeavour to resist the urge for exhibitionism and brinkmanship. We must as a nation develop a collective consciousness where the pain

of any member of our society, regardless of creed and ethnic origin shall be the collective pain of all of us. And we must all work together to ensure that we remove the cause of this point. Those who take to the pulpit to issue threats and ultimatums should be held entirely responsible for the dastardly consequences of their actions.

The President of NASFAT, Alhaji Sheriff Yussuf, stated that the Symposium was to dispel the belief that the terror attacks were to impose Islam or as a mark of hatred against people of other faiths and to also engender peaceful co-existence among the populace.

At the occasion were traditional leaders, religious leaders and other dignitaries.

Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola canvassed the creation of the Ministry of Northern Affairs to address poverty and insurgence in the north.

Justifying the call for Ministry of Northern Affairs, Aregbesola stressed that the problems being encountered in Nigeria are created by the Federal Government and to that extent, it must be involved in their resolution.

According to him, the northern women must also be empowered and allowed to work to relief the burden on the men for the good of the society.

“The essence of the central government is that it is there to support the weakest unit. If indeed we want peace for ourselves, we must not leave the

unit that will draw us back to itself. If what is going on in the North continues unchecked, honestly we are doomed.”

Emphasising that it is collective responsibility of all the religion to seek solution to the crises, Aregbesola said “true religion cannot be silent in the face of crisis. True religion must be part of the solution to a crisis. Regardless of how it arose, truly religious people must enlist themselves faithfully in the resolution process.

National Security Adviser (NSA) Gen. Owoye Azazi in Kaduna yesterday said economic woes created a fertile ground for the recruitment, indoctrination, brainwashing and training of terrorists and other insurgents.

Continued on page 7

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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NEWS Minister: Education problems beyond infrastructure, funding

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•Gaborones President Ali Bongo Ondimba(right); President Goodluck Jonathan, Namibian Ambassador to Ethiopia Kakena S. K. Nangual and Ethopia Prime Minister Meles Zenawi at the opening of the World Economic Forum on Africa in Addis Ababa...yesterday Story on page 53

Bomb scare fever grips Lagos

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HE Police bomb disposal unit has described the incessant bombings in various parts of the country as false.

Continuous report of fake bomb blast in parts of Lagos has been creating a sense of fear.

Police spokesman Gbolahan Moronfolu, said it was nothing but an empty threat, adding that the state of insecurity in the country was the cause of the panic.

Moronfolu applauded the quick response to threats by members of the public.

He said: “It’s true that we went to Silverbird Cinemas but it wasn’t over any partic-

By Jude Isiguzo ular threat, just a regular check to ensure that the area was safe.

“We went to the Synagogue Church on Wednesday evening as well, following a threat but after carrying out Explosive Ordinance Disposal procedure, nothing was found.

“The quick reaction shows that people are now more security conscious than ever.”

According to Police sources, four cases of bomb threats were reported this week in Lagos.

On Tuesday, following such threats, the popular Silverbird Galleria on Victoria Island had many Police bomb technicians scanning its premises for possible Improvised Explosive Devices.

Customers on seeing the policemen operating with their gadgets immediately fled the premises.

Similarly, on Wednesday evening, there was a bomb threat in the popular Synagogue Church of All Nations headquarters in Ikotun, Lagos.

Operatives of the AntiBomb Police command, upon receiving a distress call,

rushed to the church and evacuated the building, scanning the length and breadth of the church but no explosive device was found.

Also yesterday morning, E-Centre on Commercial Avenue, Yaba , following messages being forwarded on phones and circulated on the internet, the management of the centre immediately informed the police and bomb operatives were immediately deployed.

The scores of employees and customers remained outside for a while until the bomb technicians finished scanning the premises.

HE problems militating against education are beyond the provision of infrastructure or funding, the Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa’i, has said.

Rufa’i stated this in Abuja yesterday at the Ministerial Platform organised by the Ministry of Information in commemoration of National Democracy Day and first anniversary of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

She said the factors largely responsible for the decay in the education system included poor reading culture on the part of the youth, lack of proper mentoring of children from early childhood and poverty.

The minister decried the high rate of examination failure in schools, describing it as an embarrassment to the country.

She said the key issues identified as hampering the growth of the sector would be addressed in the four-year strategic plan (2011-2015) formulated by the ministry.

According to her, the issue of access/equity and standard/ quality assurance which are critical to the development of education would be addressed with the successful implementation of the strategic plan.

The minister noted that provision of infrastructure and funding of institutions would be baseless if the enabling environment through good governance and utilisation of such funds was not provided.

She said the ministry was currently collating data that are critical to planning, adding that the Federal Government was working in collaboration with the states to ensure the development of the sector as 90 per cent of schools were under the state governments.

“We are also working with States’ Universal Basic Education Boards to address girl-child education as well as access and quality issues at all levels.”

Rufa’i urged the private sector to complement government efforts to developm education in line with global practice.

“Government cannot go it alone. Allowing government alone to fund the sector is part of the problems we are facing in the development of education.”

On security on campuses, she said the ministry was collaborating with security agencies and managements of institutions to ensure security in the schools.

The Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku, underscored the importance of education for the development of other sectors.

“Education is a huge national project. It is a sector where everybody is involved and this ministry has done a lot in this sector.

“The investments and performance alone cannot achieve the desired results; teachers too cannot perform miracles and so the bulk of the work is in the hands of parents who should make the initial input from the scratch.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

4

NEWS

Why I appointed Oyerinde Principal Private Secretary, by Oshiomhole •Labour leaders, politicians, students bid activist bye

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•Governor Oshiomhole flanked on the left by the widow, Labake and Elder Akinwusi...at the burial

•Omar...yesterday

•Falana...yesterday

• The widow, Labake, speaking. With her are her siblings during the service...yesterday

•Widow Labake (third left), with her siblings and other sympathisers at the grave side...yesterday

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, yesteday explained why he appointed the late Olaitan Oyerinde his Principal Private Secretary.

He was addressing a crowd of human rights actvists, civil society groups, labour movement and students, who thronged the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp, Ede, venue of the lying-in-state and burial service.

Oshiomhole told his audience that the late Oyerinde understood him more than anyone else.

The late Oyerinde, he said was invited to join his administration to remind him of his principles and to caution him anytime he was drifting from his ideology.

“Olaitan had the gift to play with words and can easily read my lips and put to paper exactly what is in my mind,” the comrade-governor said.

He described the deceased as a fearless and dogged fighter, who proved himself a dependable ally.

His words: “When I was considering to run for governorship, I called him and asked for his opinion. He was my confidant. When I was appointing him, I never bothered about the town where he came from. No primordial sentiments featured in his appointment at all. It will be difficult to find someone who could capture my mind on issues like Olaitan.

“Those who killed him really got me where it hurts most. They knew that if they could not get the king, they would get the son. I know we will use the day light to get the cowards, who used the night to kill Olaitan.

“The cowards only wasted their bullets because they only killed the flesh but not the spirit of Olaitan because he has children and he will forever be in our hearts. They have succeeded in killing Olaitan but not the fighting in me.”

Oshiomhole, who said a street has been renamed Olaitan Oyerinde Crescent in Edo State to immortalise him, assured that his family would not be allowed all to suffer anything in his absence.

He sent his condolence to his aged parents, the Osun State Government and the people of the state.

There were speeches from many labour leaders and notable activists, including Lagos lawyer Femi Falana, amid wailings and tears the remains of Oyerinde were buried.

Oshiomhole, who arrived in a chartered helicopter at about 1.55 p.m., was received by the Osun State Head of Service, Elder Segun Akinwusi, who represented Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

Akinwusi was accompanied by top government officials, including commissioners, special advisers and local government chairmen to give the deceased a befitting burial.

Expressing regret over the gruesome killing of Oyerinde, Aregbesola urged security agents to find his killers and bring them to justice.

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Comrade AdulWaheed Omar and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart Peter Esele had a hectic time delivering their farewell messages.

Their presentations were interrupted by students, who used the platform to berate them over the role they played in the January anti-fuel subsidy removal protest.

The students pelted the labour leaders with satchets of pure water.

Former Secretary of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Lagos State chapter, Omotaje Olawale St. Jericho, paid a glowing tribute to the late Olaitan for his sterling leadership qualities

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo and Osagie Otabor, Benin

from the students’ unionism days.

According to him, the deceased rallied support for the labour struggle against injustices.

He recalled his active role during 1989 anti-Structural Adjustment Programme protest under military president General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd).

He recalled the late Oyerinde led the peaceful protest without compromise, adding that he coordinated all the campuses and ensured the protest was successful.

The Special Adviser to Governor Aregbesola on Environmental Matters, Mr. Bola Ilori, also a studentactivist in his university days, described Oyerinde’s death as a wakecall to all on security issues.

Falana, challenged the students to emulate the good spirit of the late Oyerinde, whom he said proved himself a selfless and dedicated activist.

The activist-lawyer, who enjoined the students to always take responsibility for their actions, urged them to ask if they are on the side of justice.

Recalling that he spoke with the deceased four weeks ago, Falana said the late Oyerinde planned to return to activism to re-organise the youth movement.

He challenged the youths to work hard and fight for justice, saying that the fate of the people should not be left in the hands of the “reckless political class.”

The hearse bearing Oyerinde's remains, accompanied top government functionaries, left Benin City at about 6:15am.

At a service of songs held Wednesday evening at the Government House for the late Oyerinde, officiating Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, said God and time will reveal those who killed Oyerinde.

The cleric described Oyerinde as a lover of freedom and a man who devoted himself for a better Nigeria.

He said: "He was quiet, unassuming, friendly, firm and focus. A man who will not a hurt a fly. Why did they kill him? What was his offence?

"An innocent man has been killed in his private residence. They wanted to make sure that he was dead. Those were not armed robbers or kidnappers. This is not the best way to settle dispute.

"It will not be well with Oyerinde’s killers. Today we call the blood of heaven that those who took Oyerinde’s life will die a terrible death."

Pastor Ize-Iyamu recalled how the late Oyerinde felt indifferent when they received security report. He said many of them took extra measures to protect themselves but that late Oyerinde never believed anybody could harm him.

In his tribute entitled: "We shared the dream of a new Edo State", Oshiomhole said he picked Oyerinde because he needed a companion who operated on the same intellectual frequency.

The governor noted he was not in doubt that Oyerinde was killed to weaken his resolve to fight for the people.

He said: "It was immaterial that Oyerinde did not hail from Edo State insofar he was most resourceful, creative and could work under severe pressure.

"In the last three and half years of my stewardship in Edo State, I attest that Comrade Oyerinde proved most supportive, to say nothing of his terrific sense of humour which often provided comic relief during moments of tension."

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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NEWS

Reps: we gave Presidency, EFCC, ICPC, AGF subsidy probe report •Oteh to face another panel

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EMBERS of the House of Representatives yesterday insisted copies of the report of the Farouk Lawan-led adHoc Committee that probed the management of fuel subsidy regime were sent to relevant agencies, including the Presidency.

Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Zakari Mohammed, said there are documents to back his claim.

He said: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) as well as the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) have gotten copies of the probe report and for anybody to say he did not get the report is strange.

“We have receipts or acknowledgment of the delivery of the report, so we are not aware of any agency of government that is supposed to and have not gotten the report.

“I am confirming that we have sent the report to the appropriate offices and we are expecting that we will be on the same page that the have said and re-echoed on the implementation of the outcome of that investigation.”

Mohammed allayed the fears over the apparent inactivity of the ad-hoc Committee on Ethics and Privileges, that was mandated by the lower chamber of the National Assembly to investigate the dramatis personae involved in the bribery allegations against the House Committee on Capital Market by the Director-General of the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms. Arunma Oteh.

The ad-Hoc Committee on the near collapse of capital market and the Committee on Ethic and Privileges were raised on March 20, following the stepping down of the Herman Hembe-led Comiitee on Capital Market.

Ms Oteh alleged Hembe and other members of the committee de-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

manded for bribe from the SEC. Chairman of the Ethics and Privileges Committee, Gambo Musa and his deputy, Toby Okechukwu, who were members of the ad-Hoc Committee on Capital stepped down temporarily from the Ethics Committee to avoid prejudice while investigating their colleagues as well as the key players in the capital market.

But Mohammed said the embattled SEC director-general would still have to appear before the Ethics Committee when it begins its assignment as she still has questions to answer.

Ms Oteh succeeded in getting the Ibrahim El-Sudi-led ad-Hoc Committee probing SEC’s operations when she wrote in that she should be excluded from further physical appearance at the public hearing.

Ms Oteh had in the two-page letter called for the understanding of the committee “to respond to any additional questions that you may have in writing, being that you had already given the commission an opportunity to present and interact with the committee for five hours yesterday.

She complained of appearing at the hearings on several occasions since the commencement of the saga without being taken on.

Her letter reads: “As you would recall, the Securities and Exchange Commission had dutifully and diligently entered appearance at the hearing in spite of the several rescheduling at the instance of the committee since the 17th of April. This has forced me and the commission to cancel and in several cases rescheduling important official commitments.

“I therefore crave your indulgence to permit me to respond to any additional questions that you may have in writing, being that you had already given the commission an opportunity to present and interact

with the committee for five hours yesterday.”

According to Mohammed who affirmed that Ms Oteh, alongside other key participants in the initial investigation by the Committee on Capital Market and Other institutions, the Samson Osagie-led adHoc committee has not kicked off its investigation due to the on-going probe of the capital market.

He said: “I want to assure that the Samson Osagie committee will start its work as soon as the Capital Market committee winds up.

“The committee has not started its work because it is about behavior and we do not want to jeopardize the work of the El-Sudi committee by commencing another probe simultaneously. Moreover, key actors in the markets, like Ms. Arunma Oteh as well as members of the last committee would be invited and we do not want excuses.

“So, I want to assure that the Committee has not started its work but it will, as soon as the capital market ad hoc committee concludes its assignment”.

He also stated that the House is not averse to the independence of state legislatures Mohammed said: “If the state legislators felt that they want independence, then they should use the opportunity of the constitutional review to present their case and if Nigerians are favorable to it, so be it.

“We believe that the right thing must be done. The Sixth Assembly attempted it and nearly got it through but lost it by a state but this time around, the decimal has changed. Numbers have changed but posterity will not forgive us if we see these things and fold our arms.

“For instance, I am sure if we are getting our funds from the Villa, we might not be able to most of the things we are doing and we think what happens here should be transferred to the states and we believe it

•MsOteh

will reduce corruption unlike some governors running their states like personal estates.

“We believe the state legislatures should be able to function. This is anther opportunity on their lap and they should utilise it and I believe this time around, we should be able to get it right”.

He also absolved the House of insinuation of conspiracy over the removal of immunity clause for the President and state governors, saying, “There is no conspiracy of si-

Striking doctors gets eviction notices S Normalcy returns as new doctors resume H

ACKED Lagos State doctors got another shocker from the state government yesterday - eviction notices from their official quarters.

The letter, datedMay 8, asked the doctors to vacate their official residence with immediate effect.

The letter reads: “Consequent upon your dismissal from the service of the Lagos State government with effect from 4th May, 2012, and in accordance with the civil service rule “No 13115 (a); “No officer shall continue to occupy state government quarters after the date on which his resignation/dismissal takes effect.

“I wish to request you to vacate the state government staff quarters allocated to you immediately.

“In view of the above, you are hereby requested to submit the keys to the quarters to the Secretary of Staff Housing Board to forstall forcible ejection.”

The first Vice-President of the state chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Dr Johnson Emene, said they are covered by the Tenancy Law. He said the NMA had instructed the doctors to ignore the quit notice, adding that NMA President Dr Idris Omede, Secretary-General and other top executives had started negotiation with the government.

“We have told them not to panic.

Within the next 13 hours or there-

EALTH services are gradually being restored in Lagos State hospitals, with the resumption of some of the 373 newly-recruited doctors.

Some of the doctors were seen yesterday attending to patients, who had turned up for treatment.

The doctors were hired on May 7, following the dismissal of 788 doctors by the government.

The sacked doctors had refused to answer queries issued to them for embarking on a strike without following due process.

The doctors assumed duty after two weeks of paralysed medical services caused by the commencement of the strike on April 24.

At the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that some wards, which were previously locked, had been opened but there was a low turnout of patients.

One of the new doctors, who pleaded for anonymity, told NAN that the low turnout was

By Wale Adepoju

about, we will know the outcome.

Nobody will be evicted between now and tomorrow,” Emene said.

New doctors have resumed work at the Lagos University

because most patients were not aware that the doctors had resumed work.

He said: “Because we are few, our impact has yet to be felt in the hospitals and most Lagosians are still not aware that we have resumed. We are hoping that by next week, things will pick up.

At the Isolo General Hospital, some doctors were attending to the patients.

Mrs Cecilia Nwachukwu, who brought her child for treatment, said they were quickly attended to as there were not many patients.

She said it took less than an hour for consultation with the doctor and getting drugs at the pharmacy, which was not the case before.

Her words: “It took less than an hour to see the doctor and we have also bought medicine that was prescribed by the doctor.

“This was not the case before when we had to wait for hours before seeing the doctor.”

Two doctors also assumed duty at the Randle General Hospital, Surulere.

Teaching Hospital, (LASUTH) Medical Emergency and Surgical Emergency Units.

The chairman, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Mr Olawale Oladubu, praised the state govern-

ment for its untiring effort at providing qualitative health care in the state.

He, urged the government to reconsider its stand on the mass sack of 788 doctors.

lence on immunity clause.

He said: “It is our opinion that since it is a constitutional matter, if it is the opinion of Nigerians that it should go, of course it would go by amendment.

“Moreover the opportunity of the constitutional review should be seized so that Nigerians should come up with their reasons why it has to go whether to stem corruption or abuse of office. Where the majority put its voice, we will definitely go with it.”

Reps seek U.S. help on insecurity, corruption From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi

THE House of Representatives yesterday solicited the intervention of the United States of (U.S.) in Federal Government’s efforts to tackle rising insecurity.

The House also urged of the U.S. to assist the country in the fight against corruption.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal made the request yesterday while hosting the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Terence McCulley at the National Assembly.

Terence restated the delegation’s interest in some legislation before the House on issues like insecurity and the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

He said Nigeria and the U.S. have a lot of things in common because they both run the presidential system of government.

Responding described Tambuwal the presidential system of government in Nigeria as an offshoot of the U.S. model.

He asked for support from the US government in the fight against terrorism and corruption.

6

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

NEWS Hydraulic failure forces aircraft to make emergency landing at MMIA

‘Jonathan fit to contest in 2015’ From Isaac Ombe, Yenagoa

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said President Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to contest the 2015 presidential elections, if he wants to.

It warned those haggling for the job to stop distracting the President from executing his laudable dividends of democracy for the people.

The party’s Southsouth National Vice Chairman, Steven Oru, said this when he inaugurated the state executive committee yesterday.

He warned members of the party to stop distracting Jonathan on 2015 when the time is still far.

“Mr. President is as qualified as any other person to contest in 2015 because after all this is his first tenure.”

Twenty eight executive members, 14 working members and 15 non-working members were sworn-in at the ceremony.

Akpabio condoles with Okiro AKWA Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio has extolled the virtues of the late Mrs Hera Okiro, the wife of ex-Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro.

During a condolence visit to the family in Abuja, Akpabio described the late Mrs Okiro as a great mother, a humble and obedient wife who had done a lot to uplift the living standard of women and children, particularly through the Police Officers Wife Association (POWA).

The governor recounted how close the deceased had been to his family.

He said the widower had lost a great friend and counsellor, who had stood by him and supported him to rise to the zenith of his career.

Okiro thanked the governor for condoling with the family.

Health students protest in Delta From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

STUDENTS of the Delta State School of Health Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area yesterday embarked on a protest over non payment of their yearly allowance of N104, 000.

They also protested against the N10, 000 levy for computer training, N6, 000 levy for sports and N4, 500 for school uniform and the monthly allowance of N5, 000 being paid to 300 level students.

The students locked out the Provost, Ben Oghenerhoro, and other staff after sacking the institution’s security guards.

A student, who pleaded for anonymity, said the government owed two years allowances and that all moves to reach the school authority proved abortive.

The student said the authority threatened to expel any student championing the demands for the payment of the arrears.

The provost could not be reached for comments.

A police officer attached to the Ughelli ‘B’ Police Division, said the situation was under control.

F

Senate slashes cost of number plates to N8, 400 A •Driver’s licence N4,000

OR those who haven’t gotten the new vehicle number plate and driver’s licence, here is good news.

The Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs has recommended the reduction of the cost of the new plates from N15,000 to N8,400.

The committee also recommended that the cost of driver’s licence should be reduced from N6,000 to N4,000.

It directed the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to recommence the issuance of the new number plates and licenses which was earlier suspended.

The recommendations were contained in the committee’s report, following an investigation into the issue of new number plates.

The committee also ordered that the cost of motorcycle number plates put at

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

N3,000 should revert to the old price of N1,500; the licences are to remain at N750.

It also directed the cessation of the collection of ecoding scheme and the collection of N2,000 per vehicle by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO).

According to the report: “The FRSC should call for the replacement of Driver’s Licences only at the point of renewal upon expiration to avoid double payment.”

The committee also observed that the August deadline for the change was no longer realistic, citing the exorbitant cost and the time lapse during the National Assembly’s intervention.

It further recommended

that the police should cease its Biometric Central Motor Registry (BCMR) which would also attract N3,500 from vehicle owners, to avoid duplication and additional burden on Nigerians.

“The Police Force should synergise its idea of biometric data collection and collaborate with FRSC ,which has an existing data base,” the committee said.

Other details of the recommendation showed that articulated vehicles will now pay N11, 200, instead of the N20,000 stipulated by the FRSC. Privileged, fancy or personalised numbers were left as recommended by the FRSC. However, dealer number plates which was cost N30,000 was slashed to

N16,800, while government’s input at N15,000 was reduced to N10,000.

The committee urged the FRSC to embark on a massive orientation and enlightenment of the people to highlight the advantages of the new plates.

Although the production of the number plates cost N7,590, which is offered to the states at N7500, the states offer it to the public at N15,000.

“The additional charge by the states on the cost of production of the two items is a tax levied on vehicle users to enable states raise revenue to render service in that regard, hence the disparity in the costs of license and plate number fees from state to state.

“However, the committee found this unacceptable as it will create more hardship on the average Nigerian and vehicle users,” it added.

DANA Airlines McDonnell Douglas 83 aircraft carrying 86 passengers yesterday made an emergency landing at Runway 19 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

The airline’s spokesperson Tony Usidamen, said the aircraft made the landing when the pilot discovered the aircraft had hydraulic pressure failure.

He said the pilot informed the control tower, which cleared it to land at the airport’s runway.

Aviation agencies, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), mobilised emergency fire trucks, ambulances as well as an evacuation bus to convey the passengers.

The aircraft was cleared at the runway and aviation authorities closed it for operations, until FAAN towed the aircraft out of the runway.

But the evacuation did not disrupt other flight operations.

The incident occurred at the peak period for the arrival of international airlines.

Usidamen said there was anxiety among the passengers when the evacuation bus was delayed.

Governors condemn insecurity

G

• Oshiomhole (left) greeting Asiwaju Tinubu at the event ...yesterday. With them is Osayande

Edo launches N10b security fund

E

DO State Government yesterday launched a N10billion security trust fund with an appeal for everyone, irrespective of political affiliation, to donate.

Chairman of the Appeal Fund Committee Justice Samson Uwaifo said there was need to enhance security in the state and restore confidence.

Justice Uwaifo said the fund was needed to help intelligence agencies acquire more crime-fighting equipment.

The chairman said the fund would be utilised with an uncommon transparency.

National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu said there was no way out of a state police.

Tinubu said negative stories emanating from the country was enough for the Federal Government to rethink, refund, refuel, replan and redesign the police force.

He said the about 400,000

•Tinubu insists on state police From Osagie Otabor, Benin

police workforce was inadequate for the security of over 120 million Nigerians.

His words: “The quick succession of events in Edo State in recent weeks is enough to devastate and demoralise a leader or anyone else for that matter.

“For you to still go ahead with the launching of a Security Trust Fund, even though it was planned earlier, is a pointer to the fact that you are concerned about the security of life and property of your people.

“The assassination of a close aide could have been enough for any ordinary person to become cowardly and retreat into frustration and despair.

“But you rose stoutly and boldly against the forces of terror and agents of despair and destruction.

“There is no way you will have economic prosperity, there is no way you get di-

rect foreign investment that will galvanised for the people, prosperity of the state without security and a functioning judicial system.

“No way out of a state police. All excuses should be forgotten. Your initiative today to establish a state security trust fund to provide the necessary enhancement for effective policing is a necessity and a great initiative that must be supported.

“This is a fund that is needed to provide security and protection. We should be able to develop security of the state so that we can sleep with our eyes closed. The inadequacy of the weapons is at stake. They must be funded.

“Since the security trust fund was established in Lagos, we have been able to reduce crime by 38 per cent.

“We have to do it here. Every citizen must have something to contribute so that economic prosperity of the state will flourish.

“I support wholeheartedly your initiative to establish

the Edo State Security Trust Fund to provide funds needed to enhance and ensure effective state policing.

“I have a message for those who want to distract you from the urgent task at hand and turn Edo into a theatre of war; you have failed!

“You need not worry because you have the people behind you and with their support you will overcome the forces of destruction and death.”

Chairman of Police Service Commission Parry Osayande urged guests to donate towards the trust fund.

He hailed Governor Adams Oshiomhole for launching the fund.

He assured that the fund would be managed judiciously, adding that law enforcement agencies and security institutions are in dire need of funds.

Oshiomhole said over 500 kidnap suspects have been arrested through the effort of security agencies.

He said politicians need a safe environment to play politics.

OVERNORS have condemned the general insecurity in the country.

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) met on Wednesday night to review the security situation in the country.

Chairman of the NGF and Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi said the governors are unhappy that “the level of violence and insecurity across the nation has become a national embarrassment”.

But the poor attendance of the meeting forced the governors to defer other items on the agenda Including the planned removal of the immunity clause and amendment to the revenue sharing formula.

Only twelve governors from (Abia, Sokoto, Ebonyi, Kaduna, Bayelsa, Borno, Cross River, Imo, Anambra, Kogi, Rivers) and the deputy governor of Lagos state, attended the meeting.

The communiqué of the meeting as read by Amaechi states: “Forum emphatically condemned the level of violence and insecurity across the nation, which has become a national embarrassment.

“It pleaded for greater understanding among Nigerians and resolved to hold a brainstorming session for the sole purpose of addressing the insecurity challenges in the country”, he stated.

He said that the brainstorming security session will take place in June.

“As part of efforts to mitigate the lingering security challenges, forum members committed to creating an enabling environment for the economic development and challenging of more resources towards the empowerment of the citizenry, especially youths, women and the vulnerable”.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

7

NEWS

Police disrupt CD’s rally in Onitsha A

PEACEFUL rally organised in Onitsha by the Anambra State branch of a pro-democracy group, the Campaign for Democracy (CD), was yesterday disrupted by the police.

CD was protesting the nonconduct of local government elections in the state and various ills in the country.

Foundation donates N60m clinic to Red Cross

From Okodili Ndidi, Onitsha

Speaking with reporters before the policemen arrived, CD State Chairman Dede Uzor urged Governor Peter Obi to conduct council polls.

He said the lack of democratically-elected officials to manage the affair of councils has stalled development at the grassroots.

Uzor said the group was also protesting the corruption exposed by the fuel subsidy and pension funds

probes, the killings by the Boko Haram sect, police brutality and extortion and the high crime rate.

He said the Federal Government’s failure to prosecute those indicted by the fuel subsidy and pension scam probes is provocative and unacceptable to Nigerians.

CD called for the sack of the petroleum minister and her finance and information counterparts.

It condemned the use of soldiers to intimidate Lagosians protesting the fuel sub-

sidy removal and urged the Federal Government to prosecute those found culpable in the fuel subsidy probe, power sector probe, pension funds probe, Halliburton and Siemens probes and the on-going Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) investigations.

CD said the masses can no more bear the “brunt of corruption and executive rascality” and called for a Sovereign National Conference (SNC).

It also called for tightened security and the compensation of the victims of Boko

Haram attacks.

The protest was interrupted at Mobede Street by the police and the protesters were ordered to disperse.

The demonstrators relocated to their terminal point at Old Market Road, Onitsha, but the police followed them there and ordered Uzor to appear before Onitsha Police Area Commander Rowland Omatoje for talks.

Omatoje said the police stopped the demonstrators to prevent hoodlums from hijacking the rally.

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HE Tunde Lemo Foundation has donated a N60 million clinic to the Nigerian Red Cross Society.

The clinic is situated in Ogun State.

Handing over the project to the society on Wednesday, Lemo, who is the Deputy Governor (Operations) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), said the project was partly funded by his friends and family.

He said: “I was driven by human kindness to embark on this project. It is only in Nigeria that people who are blessed do not give back to the society. Rich people should give back to the society, as the government alone cannot do it.

“The idea of the clinic came two years ago, when I started nursing the intention of investing in primary healthcare.”

The National President of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, urged Nigerians to emulate Lemo’s gesture.

Okorocha, who was represented by Imo State Commissioner for Health Obi Njoku, said: “No matter your position in life, there are little contributions and impacts you can make in the life of people. You do not have to be a millionaire or billionaire before assisting your people.

“Providing medical care and health education will prevent diseases. The Red Cross clinic will be staffed with renowned physicians and equipped with world-class facilities.”

•The protesters... yesterday.

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PHOTO: NAN

Vandals cause power outage, water scarcity in Enugu

HIRTY seven communities in Enugu State have been thrown into darkness, following the vandalisation of the Second Power Line installed by the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) at Udi Siding, Enugu, by hoodlums.

The communities are in Enugu North, Ezeagu, UzoUwani and Udi local government areas.

The vandalisation has also disrupted water supply to Enugu from the Ajalli-Owa

From Chris Oji, Enugu

Water Intake.

Enugu PHCN Managing Director (Distribution) Alhaji Suleiman Yahaya said the damaged equipment cost over N5 million.

Yahaya said items stolen include insulators, high tension copper wire and iron channels.

PHCN Director of Trans-

mission, Enugu District, Mr. Ikechukwu Onumonu described the action of the hoodlums as “an act of sabotage and sheer wickedness, which negates the efforts of the Federal and State governments to provide electricity and water for citizens”.

The Managing Director of the State Water Corpora-

tion, Mr. O’Brian Offodu, condemned the activities of the vandals.

He said the Oji River Water Scheme, which is the only alternative means of getting water, can only supply a limited quantity of water.

Offodu urged communities and vigilance groups to protect government facilities in their areas.

He said the government will soon resolve the problems and urged the people to the patient.

Boko Haram: Fed Govt calls for ceasefire •Continued from page 2 Speaking on the theme “Northern Nigeria, the prosperity agenda and national security” at the Northern Impact Summit organised by the Arewa Transformation and Empowerment Initiative Gen. Azazi also said lopsided economic development is capable of causing the collapse of a nation.

Represented by one of his Advisers, Prof. Soji Adelaja, the NSA noted that recent events in the Middle East and North Africa showed that long-term failure to address long-standing economic problems could erode national cohesion and the ability to advance as a nation.

He noted that even though bombings and terrorist attacks have been concentrated in the North, they have adversely affected the nation’s economy.

Gen. Azazi said the nation cannot afford to leave any of

its states or region behind in the march towards a long overdue achievement of prosperity. He said comprehensive regional economic transformation is at the forefront of the nation’s policies.

He said: “From a practical perspective, evidence is mounting that some of the root causes of unrest and the feeling of dissatisfaction and disaffection among citizens are economic hardship and the lack of economic opportunity.

“This is the case, not only in the North, but all over Nigeria.

The failure to address these root causes of unrest tend to create fertile ground for the recruitment, indoctrination, brainwashing and training of terrorists and other insurgents.”

The National Security Adviser added: “Some may think that the prosperity of northern Nigeria is not a national security issue. However, those that are more informed realise that the long-term stability and security of Nigeria is

intrinsically linked to the socio-economic performance of every single region.

“One glue that holds our great nation together is the expectation that in the aggregate, we are better off together than in isolation from each other and that the achievement of prosperity is easier when we pursue it collectively. This means that our leaders must focus on the Nigerian ‘value added’, ensuring that the whole is better than the sum of the parts.

“Within this framework, we cannot as a nation afford to leave any region behind.

If we solve some of the key hindrances to our economic development, Nigeria will be one of the leading economies in the world in the next 10 years.

“We owe it to ourselves and future generations to finally occupy our rightful place within the comity of nations. Nigeria can ill afford to leave any of its states or

region behind in this march towards a long overdue achievement of prosperity.

“I can certainly assure you that the lopsided economic growth is not in the best interest of our national security. I applaud the Arewa Transformation and Empowerment Initiative (ATEI) for recognising that unique attention needs to be paid to the North; that a credible agenda is critical to the north’s success and that leadership is needed in advancing such an agenda.

“But the process we define to advance our economic ambitions must be based on best practices and what is well proven in economic development. No meaningful transformation can happen without clear recognition that there is a problem; without clear understanding of the nature of the problem, without a clear vision of the future, without motivated leaders and followers to imple-

ment the plan and without the ability to sell the vision and plan to all partners and stakeholders in the implementation process.”

Sambo stressed the need for Nigerians to live in peace with one another.

He was represented by Kaduna State Deputy Governor Mukthar Ramalan Yero.

Governor Patrick Yakowa said it was regrettable that the North, which boasts of more than 60 per cent of Nigeria’s landmass with abundant natural resources in the agricultural and solid mineral sectors, has been unable to turn such advantages into economic growth and development for various reasons.

Yakowa, who was represented by his Commissioner for Economic Planning, Timnothy Gandu, said that the incongruity in the situation is that the North seems to be rather leading in poverty, unemployment, illiteracy and, recently, insecurity.

Naval training school for Ilorin A NAVAL Aviation Training School is soon to be established in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

The Director, Air Operations, Naval Headquarters, Commodore Bamidupe Babagbale, announced this yesterday in Ilorin while presenting a letter of request from the Chief of Naval Staff to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed.

Commodore Bamidupe said the Naval headquarters had trained its pilots in Ilorin on several occassions and was impressed with facilities at the airport.

Ahmed described the establishment of the school as “a welcome development”.

He said it is in line with the state government’s Human Capital Development and Youth Empowerment programme, aimed at empowering youths through skills acquisition and vocational training.

The governor said the school would complement the state-owned Aviation College.

He said the government would provide the Navy with land and other logistics to ensure the smooth take off of the school.

Ahmed said the state has upgraded facilities at the Ilorin International Airport.

He said: “The Navy’s decision to take advantage of what we have in Kwara, especially the facilities at our Aviation College, is a welcome development.”

On security, Ahmed said Kwara is a peaceful State.

Fidau for man THE Second Memorial Fidau (prayers) for the former Chairman of SOLACO (Nig.) Ltd., IkareAkoko, Ondo State, Alhaji Salami Olanipekun, will hold on May 14 at Salaco Estate in Arigidi-Akoko by 9am.

Funeral for woman THE matriarch of the Amokeodo family in Ilesha, Osun State, Mrs Abimbola Amokeodo, is dead.

She was 101.

The late Madam Amokeodo is survived by children, including Mr. Tony Amokeodo, formerly of the Punch newspapers, now with the Leadership newspapers.

There will be a Service of Songs for her on May 11 by 5pm at CCB, No. 16, Lejoka Abiola Avenue, Ilesa.

She will be interred at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Burial Ground, Ijofi, Ilesa, on May 12.

The outing service will hold on May 13 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, Oke Padi, Ilesa.

•The late Mrs. Amokeodo

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

8

CITYBEATS

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

Jubilation as abducted lecturer is freed T •Sunny Ade

Obey, Sunny Ade, for concert PLANS are in top gear for concert featuring two music legends, Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi and King Sunny Ade. Tagged: Oleku the organisers said it has been difficult deciding on some issues because of the overwhelming response of stakeholders, corporate bodies and individuals.

According to Deji Osibogun, the event is billed for May 27 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island and will feature the likes of BABA SALA as Master of Ceremony and Fatai Rolling Dollars as the special guest. To cater for the entertainment need of the younger generation since the day falls on Children's day, Osibogun said 9ice and Ayanbinrin are billed down to also entertain guests.

"This is a total evening for families to just come and relax in a cool environment. It was indeed beyond our expectation and we can only accommodate 1000 top Nigerians for the concert," Osibogun said.

Man jailed three weeks

By Precious Welundu

A LAGOS Magistrate's Court, Ebute-Metta yesterday sentenced Joseph Obodoako, 28, to three weeks in prison for endangering train commuters' lives.

Obodoako, Lucky Ejoh, 29, Akeem Ayinde, 25, Akeem Adebowale, 25, Oyinwale Ojo, 25, Idowu Adewale, 25, Lazarus Odeh, 32, Azeez Bakare, 18, and Jamiu Rafiu, 32, were arraigned on a threcount charge of felony, endangering lives and unlawful movement inside a Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) coach.

Obodoako pleaded guilty; the others pleaded not guilty.

Prosecuting Inspector Lucky Ojogo alleged that the accused on May 8, at the NRC, endangered the lives of commuters by running on a moving train.

"Apart from the jobless hoodlums running on top of the train at about 7:30 pm, they also trespassed at the NRC premises without permission,” Ojogo said.

The offences, he said, contravened Sections 252, 357 and 409 of the Criminal Code Laws of Lagos State 2011.

Magistrate O.O. Olatunji sentenced Obodoaka to three weeks in prison with an option of N10, 000 fine.

He gave the others N20,000 bail each with one surety in the like sum. The case was adjourned to June 6.

HERE was jubilation yesterday at the home of the Otulanas following the release of their matriarch, Dr Rukayat Otulana, who was kidnapped last Friday.

Family, friends, associates of the opthalmologist praised God for her safe return.

Sources said she returned home on Wednesday night.

Mrs Otulana, a teacher at the College of Health Sciences, Sagamu campus of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, was kidnapped at Agbowa, as she returned from Ikorodu where she went to operate on a patient.

Her abductors, it was learnt, had initially demanded N100 million ransom, but slashed it to N60 million, Monday, following the family’s plea.

By Yinka Aderibigbe

It could not be ascertained if the family paid the ransom before her release.

One of her students told CityBeats that she got the news of her release from the Facebook before it spread round the campus.

Efforts to get Mrs Otulana’s husband, Dr Biodun Otulana, on phone proved abortive yesterday.

One of her colleagues, Dr Abikoye, also of the Opthalmological Department, confirmed Mrs Otulana’s release to CityBeats.

He said: "Yes, I can confirm to you that we learnt Dr Otulana was released yesterday (Wednesday) night. I, however, did not have any further information about the circumstances leading to her

release, and I'm yet to visit the family."

He said he did not know if the family paid any ransom to effect her release.

Mrs Otulana's colleagues and students on Tuesday, protested to the palace of Akarigbo of Remoland Oba Michael Sonariwo, over her abduction.

They described the kidnap of a woman they fondly described as an amiable woman, conscientious academic and pillar of her family, as “detestable and unwarranted.”

A clinical student, who preferred anonymity, said she was happy about the turn of event. "The relief that swept through the campus when the news broke was indescribable. We were so happy she was eventually released less than 24 hours after we marched on

•Mrs Otulana

the palace of the monarch," she said.

She said the school was thrown into confusion when the news of Mrs Otulana's abduction broke.

Lagos will ‘strictly enforce’ safety laws

T

HE Lagos State government will strictly enforce all laws aimed at promoting the people’s safety, the state Governor Babatunde Fashola, said yesterday.

Speaking at a stakeholders summit organised by the Lagos Safety Commission (LSC), for captains of industry he lamented that people now placed little value on lives.

Fashola, represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties Dr Wale Ahmed, noted that some companies had become insensitive to safe work place practices.

He said: I am saddened by the quantum of precious lives wasted on a daily basis as a result of people placing little value on their lives.

Henceforth, safety laws will be enforced on government sites as well as property belonging to private individuals and corporate organisations."

The governor said since he swore to protect lives and property, everything would be done to ensure a change, "from the poor value placed on lives and the insensitivity of the people to safety matter to one that puts everything in place to promote safety whether at home, on the road or in the workplace."

By Yinka Aderibigbe

Fashola said the establishment of LSC last year, was aimed at coordinating government's policy direction on safety activities The creation of LSC, he said, has led to an improvement in them people’s awareness to safety issues, and assisted in policy formulation and regulation of safety standards.

He promised to ensure that contractor and the public service complied with LSC’s safety guidelines and standards.

Citing a date by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which records an average of 60,000 construction related fatalities yearly, said the global figure would pale into insignificance if the statistics from the construction and related manufacturing activities are added.

He praised the commission for the summit, which he described as a necessary follow-up to the road shows, safety champions clubs, and other initiatives being put together by it since since its establishment.

Fashola said gone there is the days construction sites and manufacturing companies did not

put up appropriate warning signs about hazards in their working environment. while some contractors, construction companies and their workmen do not completely clean-up LSC’s and decommission their sites after work.

The governor said the commission, which is empowered to carry out risk assessment of all sectors of the economy, would be issuing out and withdrawing safety compliance certificates as deemed appropriate.

Earlier, Ahmed who spoke in his capacity as the coordinating supervisor of the Commission, said government would continue to pursue safety matters.

The commission, he said, was established because with a population of over 16 million, there

Lagos lifts Fire Service, trains HE Lagos State Governpersonnel ment has bought modern

T

equipment to enable firemen fight fire, Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Oyinlowo Danmole, has said.

The state, Danmole said, has be-

Cock Crow at Dawn star, George Menta is dead OPULAR Cock-Crow At Dawn leading actor George Edafe Menta (aka Papa Bitrus) is dead. He was 80. Menta died at the the Royal Infirmary in Bristol United Kingdom, on March 29, after a long illness.

Born June 3, 1931, in Bassa, Plateau State, the late Menta lived in Jos, the Plateau State capital, where he had a successful acting career. He acted in Cock Crow at Dawn in the early 80's.

The late Menta acted in other national TV dramas. He was into poultry farming in Jos until he left for the UK in 1996 where he retired with his wife and four children.

A high profile movie he took part in was Mister Johnson. He appeared alongside film greats like Pierce Brosnan of the James Bond fame, and veteran English

P

By Matthew Medeme

actor Edward Woodward in 1990.

Sponsored by his father, Menta relocated from Nigeria to England at 20 in 1951 and attended prestigious private schools. He later studied law and became a telephonist at the international exchange at the time, working his way up to a supervisor. It was while he was living in London that he met his wife, Corine, through a friend.

He is survived by four children, Anne-Louise Pam, Sandra Omo, Antony and Tivey Menta and four grandchildren, Kimberley-Louise Pam, Tara Omo, Jhanae Menta and Micheal Omo. Menta left behind a large family including brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces.

•Menta

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

is need for a regulator that would reduce hazards before bludgeoning into a disaster in the state.

LSC’s Director-General, Mrs Dominga Odebunmi said the commission organised the summit to deepen stakeholders capacity to preach safety in workplaces.

She said the Commission has come up with a compendium of approved code of practices for health and safety for all establishments, adding that the Commission's 'Safety Bible,' which would be launched before the end of the year, addresses all areas of public health, including food safety, safety data systems, mining and dredging, events venue safety, safety in educational institutions and construction and manufacturing safety among others.

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.

gun human capital development through training programms, operational procedures and facilitates adequate maintenance for the service.

The commissioner, also disclosed plans to train men of the service by consultants from the United States, whom he said, are already in the country to inspect equipment and facilities on ground at the thirteen Fire Stations across the state, assessing personnel and equipment.

The Acting Director, Lagos State Fire Service, Rasak Fadipe, said his team would ensure that the consultants are given maximum cooperation in order to carry out appropriate assessments of the service.

He commended Governor Babatunde Fashola for his commitment at uplifting the status of the service, pledging that his team would seize the opportunity to take the service to the next level.

The consultants, led by Mr. Edward Wright from W.S Darley and Company, a week ago, embarked on familiarasation tour of some fire stations in the state including Ikeja, Agege, Onikan, Ikorodu, Isolo, Sari-Iganmu among others.

Wright said that the state government is embarking on a venture that has never been done before in Nigeria and Africa. He described the equipment as the most modern and sophisticated in the world.

"This programme being executed in the state would become a model not only in Nigeria, but in the whole of Africa. The fire equipment are designed to solve the problems of Fire Fighting and any other related emergencies," he said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

CITYBEATS

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

Lagos Assembly warns butchers

Fashola slams Fed Govt on poor electricity

L

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola yesterday said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-controlled Federal Government has failed by its inability to provide constant electricity.

He said electricity is no ‘rocket science,’ only that certain individuals do not want to see it happen.

"They don't want it to happen, because, the lack of it makes them prosperous," Fashola said.

He added: "One day, we will have regular power supply, and on the day we get electricity, not everybody will be happy."

He said the PDP government has disappointed Nigerians for 13 years, yet it is dreaming of ruling for 60 more years Fashola delivering a lecture at the Public Policy Forum of Business Hallmark, newspaper in Lagos with the theme: "Nigeria in the new age: Redefining Parameters of the social contract."

The governor said if the government been able to provide constant power supply; it would have met the needs of the greatest number of people.

"What's rocket science about electricity, a technology that has existed for 100 years, yet it cannot be delivered in 13 years?" he said.

By Oziegbe Okoeki

By Joseph Jibueze

To Fashola, fulfilling the social contract means putting the people first. "The only way we can get it right is to pursue what is the greatest good to the greatest number of people, not everybody. The social contract is founded on the belief that the state exists to serve the people," he said.

The governor said free and fair election is fundamental for a credible social contract, as government functions on the authority of the people. The people, on their part, must abide by the rule of law.

"The authority we represent comes only from the people," including the power to tax all income earners, he said. To him, those who earn a living must pay tax to support the poor through free education and affordable transportation.

"Otherwise, the poor will one day take over the road and say you can't pass," he said.

Fashola defended his decision to give account of his stewardship every 100 days, saying every responsible government must be accountable to the people.

He faulted the opposition for calling it a "celebration" and "too frequent.” "The opposition has nothing to account for. Virtually all our lives have been held at a

9

• Fashola

standstill. They have treated us with disdain. I have marked it 18 times without fear because the people deserve to know. You cannot overaccount to your people," Fashola said.

According to the governor, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) offers a credible alternative, which is evident in the progress made in the states controlled by the party Southwest.

"We understand the terms of our social contract. It's a party of ideas committed to progress," he said.

According to him, despite the failures of governance, the social contract parameters are being

redefined and renewed for the electorate’s benefit.

Gone are the days when governors are impeached overnight, he said.

Noting that law-making at the federal level is becoming better, especially in the exercise of oversight functions.

He said: "There's still a lot more to do. Democracy is not the problem. It's our value system that needs to change.”

A former presidential aspirant Mallam Shehu Malami said leadership is also about the character of an individual. The character of a leader determines how he performs, he said.

THE Lagos State House of Assembly has warned a faction of the Butchers' Association to avoid acts that could lead to the group’s dissolution.

Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Cooperative and Rural Development Hon Ibrahim Layode gave the warning during a closed door meeting with the two factions at the Assembly complex.

The meeting followed a petition by the Butchers' Association, alleging that a breakaway faction was engaging in activities capable of causing mayhem in the state. Layode said the government would not allow any individual, group or association.

He said: "If both parties cannot come together and resolve their differences amicably, government would not hesitate to deal with the group or association that may want to endanger the existing peace in the state."

Citing the current strike embarked upon by the doctors, Layode lamented the fragile peace in the state and urged the butchers to always remain calm.

The lawmaker added that some youths are causing problems in order to hijack the association.

In the petition, Vice Chairman of the Association, Mr. Alabi Kazeem said: "It is important to bring to the fore that the alleged people who have factionalized the legally recognized Butchers' Association in Lagos and constitute themselves into a group under the umbrella of a non-registered association also named as Butchers' Association, have embarked on propaganda to use their unregistered name to malign the character of the leaders and members of the association.”

Banky W, Baba Dee, Azeezat join COSON Board

•Apapa Express way... yesterday. Inset: The chaotic road before government’s intervention

PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI

Unified drivers' licence begins in June HE issuance of the unified drivers’ licence will begin in Lagos State next month, Commissioner for Transport Kayode Opeifa said yesterday.

It will be issued in collaboration with the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA), Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) and Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).

Opeifa said the licence would cost N6,000.

He said: "I am delighted to inform you that the Lagos State Government has concluded arrangement to kick start the new unified licencing scheme (UDLS) as all logistics required for the takeoff have been put in place. The scheme will soon commence

T

By Miriam Ndikanwu

operation in the state and motorists will once again have the opportunity of driving with a valid drivers' licence."

On the recent directive by the National Assembly to FRSC to suspend the planned introduction of a new number-plate, he said: “We have not seen any document directing states not to issue new number plates. We only read in the newspapers about a directive to FRSC. "We are not aware of the National Assembly directing states not to issue new number plates; the directive was to FRSC, and don't forget we are in a federation."

He said the MVAA which is the first contact, is in charge of

processing the information of the applicants; VIO conducts proficiency tests on the applicants and only those certified fit to drive are referred to FRSC for physical photo capture and bio- metrics.

Opeifa said the licence, which will be printed by FRSC will be issued to the applicants by the MVAA at designated drivers' licence centres.

"We wish to state that any other process aside from the one highlighted above is not genuine as the direct physical capture of biodata has made the process and obtaining the driver's licence through proxies, a thing of the past. " In the last one-year, even though, the physical capture and

• Opeifa

issuance of drivers' licence have been suspended by FRSC, a total number of 45, 644 applicants has registered with the ministry for the new drivers' licence,".

SENSATIONAL music stars Banky W, Baba Dee and Azeezat Allen have been elected by the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) as members of its board of directors. Their election followed the dissolution of interim management board during the society's annual general meeting at Eko FM Hall in Lagos on Tuesday.

The elections were peaceful.

Others on the COSON Board are Fujicroner, Adewale Ayuba and Audu Maikori, CEO of Chocolate City. Returning to the Board are Efe Omoroegbe, CEO of Now Musik; Obi Asika, CEO of Storm 360; Mr. Joel Ajayi, John Udegbunam and Alhaji S. A. Agboola while Okoroji was re-elected as the Chairman of the Board.

In his acceptance speech Okoroji thanked members for the vote of confidence on his leadership.

"I am excited at the crop of personalities we have on Board.

While we require skill and talent to move the society forward, we also require dedicated people who will ensure that COSON delivers on her mandate. I believe in everyone who has made it on board and I know that the Board is well equipped to take COSON to the place of our dreams; a bigger and better COSON," he said.

The AGM holds barely five months after the last one which took place in December 2011, because the interim Board had lasted two years and had to be dissolved according to the society's rules.

10

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

NEWS Nigeria to ban used TV, radio sets by 2015 •StarTimes crashes decoder price From Bisi Oladele and Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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IGERIANS using or trading in used television and radio sets, popularly called Tokunbo, have been asked to prepare to change them or change their trade before 2015 when a new law banning importation of the items will begin.

The Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr Yomi Bolarinwa, broke the news yesterday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, at a lecture he delivered at the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

The lecture was organised as part of the capacity building programme of the union.

He spoke on: NBC: The Challenges of Transition from Analogue to Digital Broadcasting.

The proposed ban, Bolarinwa said, would ensure that Nigeria meets the 2015 deadline set by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on full digitisation of Broadcasting Industry from analogue to digital (UHF) and VHF by 2020.

Bolarinwa, who was represented by the Secretary to the commission, Mr Mark Adeiza Ojiah, said the law would protect Nigerians from buying non-digital TV sets.

He said: “Appropriate regulation will be enacted to stop the importation of analogue broadcast and receiver equipment and enforce the placement of warning signs by store owners and importers who have inventory of analogue equipment that such receivers may not receive digital content at switchover except when plugged to a set-top-box.”

The NBC chief warned importers of tokunbo TV sets to keep abreast of new developments in the industry to prevent them from losing out by 2015.

This came as StarTimes, a Pay TV service provider, promised to transform Nigeria from analogue to digital communication system by 2015.

It promised to accomplish this by reducing the cost of its decoder from N7,000 to N3,900.

The General Manager of the company, Mr Rocky Tiang, told reporters in Ibadan that the offer is in line with the deadline of changing from analogue to digital before 2015.

According to him, the Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku, recently released a deadline for analogue TV broadcast in Nigeria.

He said the company’s decoder is old with a smart card and an indoor antenna.

Ondo pharmacists fault creation of Health Board

•From right: Chairman, African Peace Foundation (AFP), Lt.-Gen JeremiahOseni; AFP Director-General, Prof Ola Makinwa; Chancellor, Littoral University, Port Novo, Republic of Benin, Prof Oyebode Ayeni; and his wife, Dr Stella, at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the university and APF to translate Peace Centre, a peace/conflict resolution book by APF from English to French, at the Hotel Du Lac Cotonou…yesterday. With them (from the rear) are: the university’s spokesman, Dr Prosper Toruam and APF Secretary, Grace Amjaegbu.

PHOTO:ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA

37 die in Oyo road crashes, says FRSC

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HE Oyo State Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) yesterday said 37 people died in the 31 road crashes recorded in the state in April.

A Road Traffic Crashes (RTC) report released yester-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

M

while mechanical and environmental factors were responsible for the rest.

He expressed optimism that the number of road crashes would be reduced as the year unfolds, saying necessary measures have been put in place by the commission.

“We would do everything in our capacity to ensure that accident levels are reduced to the lowest while maintaining safety on the highways,” Adekanye said.

He urged motorists and road users to be patient and obey traffic laws.

Customs impounds smuggled vehicles

EMBERS of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in Ondo State have faulted the creation of the Primary Health Care (PHC) Board as a directorate under the

board.

A memorandum by the state chapter of the PSN, which was presented on the floor of the House of Assembly, noted that the provision is not only a wrong administrative decision but also technically inappropriate and completely ultra vires.

This, according to the group, is hinged on the fact that the board - which the bill is seeking to establish - is the Primary Health Care Development Board (PHCDB).

It said: “Therefore, having the Directorate or Department of PHC under the PHC board is only tautology and, therefore, a nullity.

“This provision is in contradiction to the provision of Section (6)sub-section(2)of the same bill, which stipulates that there shall be board secretariat, which shall have a variety of distinct units of health professionals such as doctors, pharmacists, community workers, nurses and other officers at director/deputy director/ assistant director levels.

day in Ibadan, the state capital, by the Oyo FRSC Head of Operations, Mr Femi Adekanye, said 154 people were injured.

Adekanye told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that human factor alone accounted for 90 per cent of the accidents

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

•Amosun

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HE Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said it impounded four of the smuggled vehicles that rammed into Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s convoy at Ajegunle, near Idiroko, last week.

The command said it has arrested a man, Omolegbe Toyosi, who is suspected to be

one of the fleeing drivers of the smuggled vehicles.

The suspect was reportedly fired in the leg and admitted at the Customs’ Staff Clinic in Idiroko.

In desperation to escape arrest and avoid the seizure of their goods, 30 suspected smugglers, who drove 30 fairly used imported cars (Tokunbo) of various brands, broke into Amosun’s convoy at Ajegunle when he toured Ipokia Local Government Area.

Toyosi was said to have been shot after he allegedly knocked down a Customs officer Adeyemi Fatai with one of the smuggled vehicles.

He was allegedly attempting to join the governor’s convoy to escape arrest from Customs officers.

The Area Controller, Ogun

State Command, Bamidele Akande, told reporters in Idiroko yesterday that NCS is still on the trail of Toyosi’s colleagues.

Akande, who took reporters round the recovered vehicles, including a Toyota Camry, a Golf 4, a Nissan Almera and a Nissan Pathfinder jeep, said Toyosi would soon be charged to court.

“We have apprehended four of the cars that intercepted the governor’s convoy. There is the erroneous impression that they all escaped. One of the smugglers sustained gunshot injury in the leg and he’s being treated.

After treatment, he’ll be charged to court. He also knocked down one of our officers,” he said.

The Customs chief expressed worry over the hostile and lawless attitude of some inhabitants in border communities.

According to him, most of such people have not only taken smuggling as a legitimate business, but also instigate other residents against the NCS. Akande said this makes it difficult for NCS officers to do their job effectively.

He said: “In the course of performing these functions and despite the precarious nature of the operational environment in this border area and the violent attitude of the residents, we have been weathering the storm.

“Our officers are frequently attacked by smugglers and hooligans who mobilise the peace-loving community members against the Customs to have their way in their nefarious business. In such incidents, our officers are attacked with guns, cutlasses, charms and dangerous weapons.”

Lagos ACN berates govt critics on sacked doctors

T

HE Lagos State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has berated those who criticised the state government for sacking the striking doctors in its employ.

The party said such critics were hypocritical to the wellbeing of Lagos residents.

It noted that if a fraction of the efforts made to demonise the government was used to resolve the doctors’ crisis, the situation would not have ended the way it did.

In a statement in Lagos by its Publicity Secretary, Joe Igbokwe, the party said it was surprised that those who did not blame the doctors for abandoning their work and subjecting patients to danger and death could resort to attacking the government for not acceding to “the selfish demands of the doctors”.

The Lagos ACN restated its support for the government action, saying it was in the best interest of Lagosians and the state health sector.

The statement reads: “As a party functioning in a democratic system, we feel it is within the purview of the people to

have their say in a matter like this. We, however, do not see the reason for the calculated effort to blackmail and smear the Lagos State Government over this decision. It was taken to save the state’s health sector from deliberate hostage by doctors who have found it so attractive to embark on incessant strikes to press for selfish reasons while the sector was exposed to danger and the lives of Lagosians put to risk. As a responsible government, the Lagos State Government would not have allowed the sector to be abandoned since it had made it clear that it could not attend to the selfish demands of the intransigent doctors.

“We are surprised that groups and individuals, who were aware of the many peace moves the government made to placate the striking doctors, are the people now running the government down for not agreeing to meet every demand by the doctors.

“It is amazing that groups and individuals that watched uninterestedly as the government made hefty concessions to the doctors, when they embarked on a pro-

longed strike some months ago, are now up arms against the government for not allowing itself to be caged with meeting the incessant demands for perks by the doctors. We are surprised that groups and individuals that refused to intervene and call the Lagos doctors to order, for the clearly unprofessional manner they down tools on very flimsy grounds to press for demands that have no bearing to efficient health delivery in Lagos, are unleashing propaganda against the government for calling the bluff of the doctors and saving the health sector from collapse.

“We are happy that the state government has opened a vista of further negotiation with the doctors and has expressed the desire to re-engage them.

We urge the doctors to take up this generous lifeline and get reabsorbed to the Lagos health sector. We urge Lagos residents to remain steadfast in their support to the Babatunde Fashola administration to ensure that Lagos State is made livable for all. We call on all hands to be on deck in the realisation of this lofty goal.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

There were different kinds of financial imprudence that were perpetrated at the NSE. These transactions were routed through companies owned by some senior officers of the Exchange.

- Mrs Arunma Oteh, Director-General, SEC

Dangote budgets $7.5b for expansion

Corporate failures on the rise, says ICAN

N

IGERIAN billionaire Aliko Dangote said his conglomerate needed to spend $7.5 billion over the next four years to expand operations in a range of sectors.

“We are going into something big. We are going into mining, petrochemicals, cement and infrastructure,” he said yesterday on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum.

“We need to spend $7.5 billion in the next four years. So, definitely, we need a lot of concentration.”

Dangote said this changing focus was one of the reasons he was looking for a partnership for his flour business, Dangote Flour Mills, with Tiger Brands, South Africa’s biggest consumer foods maker.

“We are actually trying to have a partnership between us and Tiger Brands,” he said.

“We believe they are much better than us in terms of the retail business.”

Banking and company sources have told Reuters Tiger Brands was bidding for an 80 per cent stake in Dangote Flour Mills, which makes pasta and flour in Africa’s most populous country.

Buying all or part of Dangote Flour Mills would give the maker of bread, breakfast cereal and energy drinks a substantial presence in the Nigerian food market.

Dangote said a deal was about partnership, not offloading assets.

“We are not selling. If it was to raise money, we would have ... sold the whole business to them. But no.

What we are trying to do is actually to have them so that we can now enjoy the downstream of the business,” he said.

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

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•From left: Company Secretary, Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Abiola Laseinde; Chairman, Board of Directors, Atedo Peterside and Managing Director, Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Alan Palmer, during 2011 Annual Report and Accounts of Cadbury Nigeria Plc. PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

NEC approves N50b to subsidise electricity tariff T

HE National Economic Council (NEC) yesterday approved N50 billion to subsidise the new electricity tariff tagged -MultiYear-Tariff-Order billed to commence in June across the country.

NEC also stated that stable power supply would reduce the personal cost of doing business by 40 per cent and return fleeing manufacturing concerns to Nigeria .

Briefing State House sorrespondents, Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State alongside his colleagues from Cross River Kaduna and Central Bank Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, said the decision was reached after Council considered a presentation by the Chairman of the Nigerian Energy Regulatory Commission, Dr. Sam Amadi on the proposed five-year tariff plan, which is designed to enable investors recover their cost.

The proposed benefits of MYTO, he stated, includes low

• New tariff kicks off June 1 From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

electricity tariff for the poor, guaranteed energy efficiency and N50 billion subsidy component for the next two years and free full metering of all customers between 12 and 16 months to ensure that every customer is billed according to use. Other merits include provision of access to energysaving bulbs, which can reduce cost of consumption by 40 per cent and lifeline customers (low users in cities and villages) to pay less with no metre maintenance fee or fixed charges”.

On plans by some Nigerians warming up to fight the increase of tarrif and the fact that most Nigerians pay for what they do not consumed, Obi said: “All these things will end. There is going to be a decrease and increase. There will be a decrease for the low users

and the poor people within the cities and the rural areas and there will be increase for the high users. But in the end, nobody is going to invest like they are investing in Ghana, in Chad and everywhere unless we do something because if you are a business man and you are being asked to put money where you are going to loose money, you are not going to do it.

“Overall, if we get the power issue right, Nigerians will pay less than 20 per cent of what they pay today generating their own power. And to ensure that there will now be accurate metering no longer estimated metering. These were issues we looked at, let’s have the real thing Nigerians will be ready to pay but you have to demand for the real thing. I understand the agitations from Nigerians because when they see things

like this they are always agitated but in the long run, what we need to do is to hold everybody responsible that they deliver the correct result. And I assure you that what is coming now if we get it right, the average barber shop, vulcanize everybody will have less than 20 percent of what he is spending today in generating his own power and there will be increase in job creation. Manufacturers are leaving Nigeria to Ghana ; businesses are leaving Nigeria because of cost of power. So we are going to them, you are paying this in Ghana pay it here and stay here. And that is what is important so that they can employ labour.

“We the governors of the poor states cannot allow our people to go through more difficulties. The tariff that is coming out is at least 40 per cent lower than what you can pay say in Ghana but I for one cannot exposed my people to further hardship”.

HE President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Prof Francis Ojaide has said business insolvencies is on the increase and urged accountants to rise to the challenge of increasing corporate frauds.

Ojaide, who spoke at the induction ceremony for new members in Lagos, said there is so much corruption in the system as if the accountability mechanisms does not exist.

“Professionals across a wide spectrum of professions have demonstrated indiscretion in their application of regulatory and ethical standards and within the accountancy profession, there is concern of inconsistencies and failure to comply with accounting and other regulatory requirements. As you are no doubt aware, it is the prevalence of corruption and sharp practices in low and high places in the nation that has accounted for the slow pace of development of this richly endowed nation and this is exacerbated by the absence of transparency and accountability,” he said.

Ojaide lamented that the financial improprieties perpetuated by people in position of trust have been a recipe for undevelopment, increasing suffering of the citizens, unemployment and insecurity.

He said in pursuit of its mandate to promote sanity , the institute has adopted and implemented global professional standards and code of ethics for accountants in the country.

Ojaide said the Institute has over the past years, organised programmes to assimilate persons who passed the qualifying examinations and completed the required practical training, stressing that the institute is determined to project an image of confidence and respectability for the members.

He said the institute‘s membership has grown from 250 members to 35,744 in the last 46 years, adding that ICAN has made technology competence a prerequisite for its members.

Fed Govt creates vehicles for tackling growth barriers

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HE Federal Government has commenced moves to position the Small and Medium Enterprise sub-sector in Nigeria as growth drivers for the economy.

The Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, disclosed this yesterday, while briefing journalists on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum meetings, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

He said, with this move, SMEs in Nigeria would soon become vibrant enough to drive the required level of growth in the economy.

Aganga said in the last one year of the President Goodluck Jonathan administration, the results of new

SME policies and schemes, in terms of job creation, had shown that, if given the necessary support, SMEs would provide the foundation for sustainable growth and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.

He therefore said that the priority, currently, for the Ministry of Trade and Investment was the SME sector.

He noted that the ministry had put plans in place to remove the major barriers to SME growth (access to affordable finance, low level of business support and high cost of operation) to boost the development of the sub-sector.

The minister said a committee, comprising of experts in the different fields relating to the major bottlenecks in the

sector was already being set up to ensure that the country achieved a turnaround before the end of this administration, adding that vehicles had already been created to achieve this goal.

“Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises remain the backbone of the development of any economy and the driving force of national growth. In Nigeria, there are currently over 17 million Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the country, employing over 31 million Nigerians. They account for over 80 per cent of the total number of enterprises in Nigeria and employ 75 per cent of the total workforce,” Aganga said.

“But their contribution to

the nation’s GDP is still relatively low, due to major constraints in the operating environment, which have limited their abilities to create jobs and perform the vital role of enhancing economic growth and development,” he added.

He said that in the next three years, Nigerians should expect more SMEs with enhanced productivity.

The minister said, already, a national database had been developed in partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics, which was the first step in the effective tackling of the problems of the sector.

According to him, there will also be a national SME Policy that will address the major problems in the sector.

He said the Bank of Industry was already executing matching programmes with state governments on SMEs and deepening financing penetration, using microfinance banks.

The minister said his ministry had also begun regular interaction with SME desks of banks to develop unconventional but workable means of providing affordable finance for SME growth.

In a meeting with the Director-General, World Trade Organisation, Mr. Pascal Lamy; Aganga also reiterated the government’s commitment to deepening regional trade, saying it would open many doors for Nigeria in terms of job creation.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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

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failure: Tax to drive transformation Hydraulic DANA makes emergency landing agenda, says Jonathan D P

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has disclosed that his administration’s transformation agenda will be driven by reliance on tax revenue for the provision of developmental projects rather than oil.

Speaking at the 14th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CITN) in Abuja yesterday, President Jonathan stated unequivocally that “Taxation is the sure way to go towards accumulating the resources required for economic transformation.”

According to President Jonathan, “the inevitability of taxation as a tool for economic transformation cannot be over emphasised, most especially when resources needed to carry out development projects are scarce and inadequate to cover all the areas requiring attention.”

Nigeria’s dependence on revenue from oil over the years he said has worsened the situation, a development which he said “accounts for government’s efforts in recent times to change the tide by encouraging productive activities in other sectors of the economy.”

To defend government’s action

From Nduka Chiejina Assistant Editor

President Jonathan noted “there is no better time to do so than now, considering the volatility of oil prices, which has made it even more imperative for diversification of the national revenue scope. We have to make sacrifices with respect to securing the future of Nigeria. Taxation is the sure way to go towards accumulating the resources required for economic transformation.”

The cardinal objectives of this administration he insisted is “to diversify the nation’s sources of revenue by strengthening the country’s tax system in order to reduce, if not eradicate, over-dependence on oil revenue, the achievement of the government’s objective of widening the tax base for improved revenue collection through voluntary compliance in line with international best practices will be enhanced through cooperation with and support of the institute.”

Sustainable tax education and public enlightenment programmes the president said, would complement government efforts in this direction.

He called on all stakeholders in the taxation system to embark on tax payer sensitisation exercise, in order to draw attention to the citizen’s rights and duties as tax payers under the tax laws.

In his remark Mr. John Femi Sunday Jegede, President of CITN said the institute has viewed with serious concern the security challenges facing the country. He said that CITN was “worried over the continuous loss of lives in northern parts of the country and hereby call on the federal government to as a matter of national urgency ensure that steps are taken to guarantee the safety of lives and properties throughout the nation.”

To address this problem, the CITN president called on the government to resolved the problem of insecurity in the country through dialogue “quickly as non-timely resolution could scare away foreign investors.”

On unemployment in the country, Jegede advised government to mandate the ministry of labour to open registers for the unemployed school leavers and come up with reliable statistics, which would form the basis of addressing the menace.

08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20 12.15 12.45 09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

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

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LAGOS – 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

ANA McDonnell Douglas 83 aircraft with registration number 5NFRI and 86 passengers on board, made an emergency landing yesterday at the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.

The spokesperson for DANA Air, Tony Usidamen, said the aircraft had to initiate an emergency landing, when the pilot discovered that the aircraft had failure of hydraulic pressure.

He explained that the pilot subsequently informed the control tower, which cleared it to land at the international airport runway, adding that the relevant aviation agencies, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria ( FAAN), mobilised emergency fire trucks, ambulance as well as evacuation buses to convey the passengers after the aircraft landed.

On arrival, the aircraft was cleared at the runway, forcing aviation authorities to temporarily close it for operations, until FAAN mobilised for the aircraft to be towed out of the runway, without disrupting other flight operations, given the fact that the timing of the incident was the peak period for international airlines’ arrival.

Confirming the incident, the Director-General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority ( NCAA), Dr Harold Demuren, said no damage was done to the aircraft, nor any casualty recorded. He commended the crew for their discretion in declaring emergency and opting to land at the international runway as part of the mandatory safety procedures.

Demuren explained that the timely handling of the incident is sufficient proof of the safety management system put in place by the NCAA, adding that the aircraft was toyed by FAAN in collaboration with NCAA. It has to be towed because it is peak time for flight operations for international airlines. The incident occurred about 4. 59 pm, local time, he added.

FIRS seeks Reps support for N23.039t medium-term target •From left: Lube Sales Engineer, Oando Markerting Plc, Mrs Bisola Lawal-Solarin; Lubricant Manager, Mr Dayo Ayauelokun; Star Prize winner, Rasaq Balogun and Lube Sales Engineer, Lagos, Mr Uche Ajoko at Oleum Oil PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU Storm Mechanic Village Promo held at Owode Onirin, Ikorodu, Lagos ... Thursday

2013 budget: Reps focus on ongoing, abandoned projects

T

HE House of Representatives yesterday mandated its standing committees to ascertain all ongoing projects in preparation for the presentation of the 2013 budget to the National Assembly.

The committees were given 60 days to submit their findings to the House.

The House also called on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to avail it a copy of the Bunu Sherrif’s Committee report on abandoned projects within two weeks.

The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of the prayers of a motion brought before it by the Deputy Leader, Leo Ogor.

Leo Ogor, in his presentation of the motion titled: “Need to verify capital projects executed by Ministries, Departments and Agencies

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

(MDAs) of government across the nation,” said the National Assembly has appropriated trillions of Naira to the Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies for capital projects for infrastructural development of the nation since 1999 till date.

“Despite these huge allocations to the Ministries, Departments and Agencies, there’s still dearth of infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, suggesting that these funds have not been used commensurately.”

Ogor added: “Unless this Honourable House takes urgent step to stop this trend, the MDAs may continue to serve as conduit pipes through which the nation’s purse will be drained.”

A member, Toby Okechukwu

(PDP-Enugu), while supporting the motion, said the execution of projects were characterized by lack of continuity, adding that there is need for the House to complete the projects audit before the presentation of the 2013 budget to the National Assembly in order to identify areas of priority.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa (ACNLagos) in her contribution, said the federal government should borrow a leaf from the Lagos state where there is no abandoned project.

Speaking at a press briefing after plenary, Chairman House committee on Media and Public Affairs, Zakari Mohammed, said there is no country in the world where meaningful development can be achieved without accurate data.

He said: “in the next 60 days we expect the committees will go out to ascertain the true picture, so that we have a data bank.

From Nduka Chiejina Assistant Editor

F

EDERAL Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), is seeking the support of the National Assembly to pass subsisting tax laws and amend the relevant ones to enable it attain its medium term target of N23.039 trillion, it was learnt yesterday.

FIRS’ acting Executive Chairman, Alhaji Kabir M. Mashi, made the call when members of the House of Representatives Committee on finance visited the Service. Marshi said FIRS would appreciate the speedy passage of existing tax laws, such as the Petroleum Industry Bill and two tax bills that would be submitted to the National Assembly for review later this year.

On FIRS Medium Term Plan, between 2012 and 2015, Mashi said, in a statement: “In the next three years, particular attention would be on where the assistance of the Legislature would be required: Review of Existing Tax Laws and enactment of relevant new Tax Laws, Review of FIRS (Establishment) Act and introduction of relevant regulations to effectively regulate it, Achieve a Medium Term Revenue Framework as projected: N4, 779.41 trillion in 2012, N5,456.79 trillion in 2013, N6, 060.23 trillion in 2014 and N6,743.58 trillion in 2015.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The three-year tenure of local government councils in Plateau State ended in January.

Governor Jonah Jang has since appointed caretaker committees for all the 17 councils.

But opposition parties say the governor erred constitionally. They have gone to court over the issue, writes YUSUF IDEGU.

Opposition parties dare Jang over councils L

IKE a recurring decimal, the issue of local government election in Plateau State and the composition of the councils is generating debate. Being the third tier of government and the closest to the grassroots, the issue is drawing much interests and attention. Energy is being dissipated on how to make the councils working. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Action Concress of Nigeria (ACN), and the Democratic Peopls Party (DPP), are the three political parties with follwership in the Northcentral state, if the results of the last local government were anaything to go by.

In the election held in November 2008, the ruling PDP won in 13 local government araes to beat ACN and the DPP, which won in three and in one council areas respectively.

That was the last mandate given to elected council officials in the state and since then, no concrete effort has been made to hold fress election. The state government constituted management committees to steer the ship of the 17 councils.

State Governor, Jonah Janag dissolved the councils and inaugurated committees on January 21.

But the opposition parties are crying foul. They faulted the non conduct of election into the councils since the expiration of the tenure of the former managers.

They argued that there was no law in the country that empowers governors to appoint a committee to administer the council, other than through elections.

Besides, they alleged the replacement of committees with committees, was a ploy to shut out the opposition as members of the interim committees are usually drwan from the ruling party.

Already, three suits have be instituted against the government over the non conduct of council polls. The first case was instituted by two former council chairmen, who felt their tenures were yet to expire as at the time they were dissolved.

They asked the court to declare their dissolution null and void and also to stop any appointed group from replacing them.

Not ending their litigation against the state, they ap-

proached another court to obtain injunction aimed at stopping the state government from inaugurating the new management committee, pending the determination of the earlier suit.

The third case over the same issue was instituted by the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). The party has asked the state High Court to determine whether or not the government has the power to sack elected council officials and replace them with appointed officials other than conducting formal election.

The CPC also wants the court to determine whether or not the filling of the vacancies at the third tier is not an infringement on the constitutional rights of the opposition parties to contest for the election as contemplated by section seven of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

It also wants the court to determine whether or not his followers have not been disenfranchised by the inability of the Plateau State Government to conduct the council election.

But the State Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice Edward Pwajok, while offering explanation for the dissolution of the former council executives said: “The governor did not just unilaterally dissolve the councils; he acted on power conferred on him by law, the law establishing the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) 2011.

It said the law provides for the dissolution of the local government councils at the end of the tenure of the councils. The law looks at the councils holistically with the legislative arm and executive arms taking a joint decision. The law provides that at any point the tenure of either the elected chairman or the elected councillor comes to an end, the entire government stand dissolved.

Pwajok said; “In this case, if you leave the council chairman in the office while the councillors are gone because their tenure had come to end, who approves the bill and expenditure of the chairman, it then means the council chairman will become an administrator

• Jang

since he has no legislative arm.

“So, this particular law envisaged this and provided that all of them go at the same time and a management committee is put in place for a very short time pending when PLASIEC conduct its election and new elected government emerged.

“So it is not as if the state governor just woke up one morning and said I don’t like the faces of the chairmen and just dissolved them, he acted in accordance with the PLASIEC law. The issue is the tenure of the local government legislature has come to an end, but the tenure of five chairmen has not ended, do you now dissolve the legislative arm and allow the executive arm to

• Chairman (CPC) Tony Momoh

operate? Is that democracy? I can see the ignorance of those opposing this genuine lawful democratic action of Gov. Jang” Echoing hi, the Commissioner for Information and Communication Yiljab Abraham said the state government is as worried as anyone over the pending council election. He said: “Let me tell you that as at the time government dissolved the councils and set up management committees, it intended to conduct the election in April 2012. But political and legal battle interfered along the line. He also spoke of the need to ties some administrative nuts for smooth conduct of the election.

Yiljab also said, “Government

is not just giving excuses for delaying. this election, everybody is aware of the security challenges facing this government, four of our local government are under state of emergency and their monthly allocations are being withheld has been withheld, will you conduct election for other local government and leave out these four and conduct their own later considering how capital intensive is it to conduct the election.”

Yiljab plead with the electorate in the state to be patience with the government, assuring the goverment is battling to overcome these legal and security challenges.

• Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha [right] listens as Dr Myles Munroe, a motivational speaker gives his remarks during a visit to Government House, Owerri recently.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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POLITICS Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship aspirant in Ondo State Dr Olu Agunloye spoke with Deputy Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU on the party’s preparatioin for ‘guided primaries’ for contenders and the October governorship election.

Ondo ACN aspirants united, says Agunloye T HE governorship election in Ondo State is drawing closer.

How prepared is ACN for this

poll?

I will like to say that we have been in the process of rebuilding and strengthening the structures of the ACN for about one year now. And we have seen a lot of positive results. We can now say categorically that we have an ACN that is stronger, that is prepared, that is much more robust than it used to be. And above all, we have an ACN that is prepared to win the next governorship election. We also have an ACN that is pretty ready to take over governance in Ondo State.

Part of the evidence has been a lot of harvesting, people moving into the ACN. A lot of people have joined our party and we are here in Ilaje to harvest a very important aspect of the development of the ACN. This is part of the work we have been doing in the past four to five months and we are here today, where thousands of people are declaring for the ACN on the platform of Omoluabi. We also have an estimated of four to five thousand PDP members drawn from all over the 18 local government areas of Ondo State also declaring for ACN on the platform of Omoluabi.

The number of aspirants jostling for the ACN ticket is increasing by the day. Don’t you think this can go a long way to whittle down your chances, knowing fully well that Iroko is a formidable contender?

There are two issues. Let’s separate them. One is uprooting iroko, hacking it down, breaking it into pieces and turning it into fire wood. It is an issue that I know the 23 aspirants are committed to trash. We have had issues like an opposition sponsoring somebody. But that has not come at all. There are two issues on the mind of each aspirant. One is to make sure that Mimiko gets out of that place.

Two, is to build a strong party. I’m close to other aspirants. I also talk to other aspirants. Recently, when we had an issue, we had to arrange with (Mr. Rotimi) Akeredolu to interpret the law for us.

So, till date, once we go through the

election process, there won’t be any problem as (Governor Olusegun) Mimiko and some other people are expecting. The other one is, why do we have so many aspirants? The most important aspect of this project is building the party and the ACN leadership in its wisdom has chosen one strategy to ease aspirants. That is going on. As I talk to you here, it is possible that (Prof. Ajayi) Borrofice is harvesting some people in Idoani. It is possible that Segun Ojo is harvesting some people in Ifedore and (Tayo) Alasoadura is subduing some stubborn people else where.

This is a process of building the party and the aspirants are working more to build the party than their aspirations. So, you must know where we are coming from. The ACN had been weakened because of the feeling that Labour Party was ACN. And in the last one and half years, it’s been clear to us as Governor Rauf Aregbesola put it that omi eko (pap water) and eko (pap) are not the same. Omi eko is on one side and eko is on the other side.

Let everybody bear his father’s name.

And we have been making the people to understand that Labour Party (LP) is not the party of our people and it is not the same as the party of the progressives. So, there is no problem about the number of aspirants.

There is this insinuation that Governor Mimiko wants to dump the incumbent deputy governor and pick you as the deputy governor. How true is this?

Well, you must also know that many people run what I call governance by stealing. Some of these things might be coming from him, not only to manipulate the ACN but to manipulate some Labour people who intend to come to the ACN. If anybody tells me to do this, I will ask him to shut up because if I said I was going to become director of works, then you can entice me with the position of a deputy governor.

But I said I want to become the governor of Ondo State. I know I’m competent, eminently competent and credible. So, why should anybody want to choose me as deputy governor? This

• Agunloye

is one of the antics of my adversaries to cause a distortion and disruption on the way people view my candidacy, on the way people view my leadership.

What is the difference between change and continuity? You said you are an agent of change and not continuity?

Well, on the surface of it, it is said that government is a continuity. But here, we don’t talk about the continuity of government. We are talking about the continuity of governance; we are talking about the continuity of leadership that has not created wealth.

We are talking about wastage that must stop. We are talking about earning N450 billion in three years and squandering it. That is the situation that must stop.

That is the change we are talking about. Then, we are talking about absence of youth employment, youth engagement and women emancipation, engagement and empowerment and movement to issues where we have sustainable development that encourages participatory governance.

That is the change we are talking about.

We are talking about change from Labour Party, from a party of hard labour to the party of progressives.

We are talking about change from being a bottled wine in this sub-region to an integration of the commonwealth of Western states to the development agenda which only makes it possible for us to do more this time but to also guarantee the future of our children.

You are a front runner in this race and incidentally, Prof Borrofice who joined the race later is also a front runner, don’t you think his ambition can undermine your chances since both of you are from Akoko in Ondo North?

Well, I don’t know what you mean by being a front runner? I know I’m number one in the race. The situation allows other people to join. Boroffice is my friend. He’s a professor of Botany. He’s an Akoko person. He’s from Akoko South, where you ‘ve had the only two ambassadors that Ondo State has produced; where you had former governor, (Adebayo) Adefarati, where you have the current deputy governor; where you have the former speaker and current deputy speaker. He (Boroffice) is an eminent Nigerian in his own right and he’s welcome to the race. He’s also part of the people building the party. But his coming into the race has in no way reduced my leadership position in the race and in no way reduced my chances of getting the ticket.

What is your comment on the recent crisis that trailed an attempt to host a memorial lecture in honour of former governor Adefarati?

First, we need to put this correctly.

The ACN and its guests did not plan to have a political rally. They did not plan to have political resistance. But the party supporters came there in flowing gowns which showed that they did not really prepare to fight or be fought but rather to celebrate a man who was a governor of Ondo State; to celebrate a man who lived for peace and acted it; a man who acted for fairness, who used the limited resources he had at that time to do some landmark investments including setting up (Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission) OSOPADEC, which now cannot account for almost N100 billion allo-

cated to it.

So, we were not prepared to fight.

The fight was started by Labour Party thugs. You also need to know that the police were not able to do anything. I can say categorically the police were not able to do anything to prevent it but of course, supporters of the ACN went to the place and were attacked.

That was why a warning was made by the chairman of our party that violence is not the monopoly of anybody and that violence begets violence.

Incidentally, the Labour Party went to say that this is an empty boast which sounded very mindless because we said ‘don’t come and fight us; if you come to fight us, we will fight you back.’

They said it was an empty boast. Again, what you need to know here is that it gives you a thermometer reading of the government of Mimiko, a government that mimicks how things are done well without doing it at all; a government that is jittery and a government that is over anxious and threatened by itself; a government that realises that all is gone. So, all that it can do is to resort to violence.

It had happened again. Three of our buses were badly vandalised. If we counted my own bus that was vandalised, it becomes four. And they were vandalised by Labour Party supporters. It’s a sign that the incumbent governor has become jittery. You don’t need to do much analysis. But we have sounded a warning that it is easier to be violent. It is easier to distort and disrupt things than to build. So, if they want us to join the violence, we will match them with violence.

Does that mean you are threatening violence?

No. I will not only preach peace but also plead for peace. But if somebody wants to put finger into your eyes, you cut off the finger because if you become blind and say somebody put his finger in your eyes, you will be asked, who is the person? You now say you don’t know. If you want to attack me, I will attack you back. Because as one of us said, you don’t need it. I was head of a paramilitary organisation for seven years but you don’t need that to react when you are being threatened.

‘Northern governors have failed to utilise accruing revenue’ Senator Musa Ibrahim of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) represents Niger North Senatorial District. He expresses his views on raging issues bordering on his constituency and the nation in this interview with JIDE ORINTUNSIN.

• Ibrahim

N

IGER North Senatorial district is the zone favoured to pro duce the next governor by 2015, have you been approached?

No. Nobody has ever approached me. They know that I cannot be approached. I don’t need them. I have my platform, which is the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Whatever the case, I remain in the CPC. I don’t need the PDP in my life. I am not a selfish politician. Mind you, the issue of zoning is a PDP arrangement.

We are not eager or desperate to be governor. Our concern is good governance. So, for me, if my people can come together, collapse everything, sit down and select someone who we think can salvage the situation, I am ready.

What do you make of the present administration in the state?

The situation is bad in Niger state;

we are not having good governance.

But government has provided free education, housing and other infrastructures…

It is all gimmicks. Recently I went to the primary school I attended in Kotangora, the place was like a refuse dump. I shed tears, there is no single classroom that is conducive for pupils to learn. The condition called for my intervention, but I learnt that government got wind of my visit and the proposed plan to renovate the school.

That made them to start renovating the school now. All the things they claimed to have been done were just media creations. There is nothing on the ground to show for it. For example, in my senatorial zone, where we have a lot of problems, nothing is being done to alleviate these problems. I make bold to say that my people are not enjoying the dividends of democracy.

Sad enough, it is not only my zone.

The entire state is grossly neglected.

Go to other states, you will cry for Niger state. Look at a state like Kebbi, I commend that governor. I’m in CPC but I wish him well because he is performing. If you go to Kebbi State, he has renovated the state capital. Roads in that state are in good condition. You hardly ride on roads riddle with potholes in Kebbi. But that is not the case

in my state. The students get their scholarship regularly; everything is working in Kebbi state. I am not playing politics; we are far from what the Kebbi State governor has done in my state.

But the rating of Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu in the region and nationally is high. People say he is a performer.

All these ratings are media hype. You live in the state. Are you telling me that our roads are in good condition in Niger state? People are still buying water, even in the state capital; one of the basic necessities that somebody is suppose to have. Are you telling me we are moving forward? Only recently the Commissioner for Health confirmed that 50 people died last year of Cholera – water borne disease. We make more noise in Niger state than action. The rating is a self creation and not a true reflection of what is on the ground.

Review of the nation’s revenue allocation formula has taken the front burner, with the governors taking different position base on their geo-political zones, where do you stand?

As for me, the issues of revenue formula do not arise. Are we putting the current allocation into proper use? Are the monthly allocations judiciously put to use? We don’t choose the re-

sources. So, why do we ask for revenue formula. What do we want to do with it? Even the one we are getting, where do we see it being utilised? The sad story is that some of our Northern governors have failed to properly utilise what accrue to their states. Why do you now call for an upward review, when the one you have is not properly utilised.

What do think should be done to ensure that the governors judiciously utilise their allocation?

The problem is multi-faceted. Like the issue of this State/Local government joint account. The state governments are clamouring for more when they have already reduced local government system to non-existence. The councils have been reduced to a department of a ministry. They are cash trapped and their dues denied by the state government. In some states, some local government areas cannot even pay its bill. In one breath the state governments are calling for an upward review of the allocation but on the other hand, they want the state governments to control the funds allocated to the local government areas.

That is why I said the problem is multifacet.

This is a constitutional matter, what are you doing to ensure that local governments are not just on paper but

with full autonomy?

That is what we are saying. Presently, we have a bill to that effect for local government to become autonomous. It has to be distinct from the state government. We are working on the amendment and very soon, our local government will be liberated and proper federalism will be enshrined.

The CPC swept your zone during the general elections but there was a dramatic turn when the local government election was held…

There was never a departure. The fact was that, there was no local government election in the true sense of it in my state. It was planned, programmed and executed by the PDP. It is a known fact that if election is free and fair and an election is to be held tomorrow, base on one man, one vote, there is no way the PDP can win in my area. Though during the election, I was not there; I learnt they went in with security agencies, harassing people, snatching ballot boxes, thumb printing and box-stuffing. Our people just withdrew and allowed them to do what they wanted. Why they did that was because they said that the governorship ticket is coming to that side and the governor said that if they did not deliver the local government, he will not give them the ticket, so they allowed them.

JOBS

PROGRAMME

NDE empowers 450 women, youths Akwa Ibom

18

Obi introduces free health Anambra

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Infrastructural renewal in Niger

F

•Aliyu HE Itsekiri people of Delta State have marked the 25th anniversary of their monarch, Olu of Warri, HRH Ogiame Atuwatse II, with a call to unite and help build their homeland.

The king himself delivered the message as his subjects, decked in colourful gear, celebrated with him.

The Olu of Warri remembered the internal strife that once undercut the kingdom’s progessive efforts but he also hailed the cohesion in the kingdom.

Ogiame Atuwase recalled that much natural resources are taken away from Itsekiri land and so little given back, but he urged his people not to be daunted.

The occasion offered much to behold and relish. For instance, a cavalcade of canoes and water crafts of all sorts chugged up and down the choppy Warri River to loud cheers and drumming from a jubilant crowd.

Boaters, egged on by the mammoth crowd, performed dare devil stunts. Men and women on brightly festooned traditional wooden canoes paddled feverishly up and down the river in celebration.

The traditional war canoe draped in red clothing and fluttering red flags led other canoes from various Itsekiri clans in the regatta.

Groups and Itsekiri communities that participated in the regatta included communities like Ugbolopkoso, Urubu, Ugbuwangue, Orugbo Ubeji, Ebrohimi, Abigborodo and a host of others.

The Warri Boat Regatta was the climax of activities marking the 25th coronation anniversary celebrations of the Warri monarch, Olu of Warri, HRH Ogiame Atuwatse 11 (CON).

Warri and adjoining communities were in a carnival mood as the Itsekiri nation paid homage to their monarch in a lavish nine- day ceremony.

From the upland areas to the creeks in Warri Kingdom, signs of the festive occasion were evident.

Hamlets that line the creeks leading to Ode-Itsekiri, joined in the celebration, thus transforming the whole swathe of mangrove from upland Warri into the deep re-

ROM towns to remote villages, there is an infrastructural renewal in Niger State. Roads are wearing a new look. Once impassable township ways are now paved. In rural communities, access has also improved, making it easier for farmers to transport their produce to the markets.

The people like what they see and have been hailing the administration of Babangida Aliyu whose N6b bond facility made it all possible.

The recourse to the bond from the capital market initially attracted a

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

groundswell of scepticism and opposition. Many said Governor Aliyu was about inflicting a heavy debt burden on the state. Some said it was mission impossible.

But Aliyu and his management team stood their ground. They embarked on massive enlightenment, telling the people that bond was the most reliable form of accessing funds for developmental projects, considering its low digit interest rate and strict monitoring of projects funded

by the facility.

Determined not to transfer any debt burden to his successor, the governor, in concert with the legislature, issued an Irrevocable Standing Order (ISO) on which the payment would be made over a period of time not exceeding the lifespan of the administration. By this arrangement, the bond would have been repaid by 2014.

After a thorough assessment of the roads across the three senatorial areas, the following roads were scheduled to be constructed. They are

Luma-Babanna Road, MokwaRabba-General Hospital Road, roads at the proposed Three Arms Zone in Minna and five others within the state capital.

Also, roads to the Gurara Waterfalls were pencilled down for attention, as were Batati-Dubban Road, Industrial Layout Road, Minna, Kutigi-Fazhi Road and Birgi-Gwari-Lapai Road.

But even when contracts were awarded and work began, the •Continued on Page 48

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•Chiefs pay homage to the monarch

Inset: Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II

Monarch rallies Itsekiri at anniversary Olu of Warri marks silver jubilee Uduaghan hails organisers From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

cesses of Ode-Itsekiri into a kaleidoscope of colours.

The celebrations proper kicked off with the monarch conferring chieftaincy titles on deserving Itsekiri people, including Otimeyin

Adams, Pa Everest, Ayiri Emami, Thomas Ereyitomi, Dr Mark Erumi and Willy Edema.

The homage paying ceremony accompanying the return by the newly ennobled of their individual swords of office took place at the palace grounds to characteristic drumming, music, and rendition of songs reenacting ancient sagas.

The grand finale of the jubilee celebration was held at Ode-Itsekiri, Warri South Local Government Area, the ancestral homeland of the Itsekiri nation.

Ode-Itsekiri was a Mecca of sorts as Itsekiri people and well-wishers descended on the battle sacred community for the annual address by the monarch.

In his speech, the Warri monarch recalled the challenges faced by his people during the fratricidal conflict that rocked his kingdom from 1997-2004.

He urged the Itsekiri people to remain undaunted.

The Monarch said: “In spite of the fierce winds of opposition which we did not initiate, God has preserved us and kept us going…Although we had a lot of wicked acts of aggression and oppression directed against us, we are standing, not with our heads •Continued on Page 48

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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• Governor Akpabio

NDE empowers 450 women, youths

HE National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in Akwa Ibom State says it has started the process of empowering 450 women and youths in the state as its contribution toward poverty reduction.

The directorate explained that the beneficiaries were drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state.

The Coordinator of NDE in the state, Mrs Patience Osunkwo, made this known in an interview with reporters in Uyo last week .

Osunkwo said that the directorate was collaborating with the Millennium Development Goals office in the state.

Abia builds market

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HE Abia State government has begun the construction of a multi-billion naira modern market at Ubani-Ibeku at the outskirts of the state capital, along Arochukwu-Umuahia road. It has the aim of moving the current market situated at the central part of the state capital.

Speaking with newsmen in Umuahia, the managing director of the construction company handling some of the stalls, Mr Okey Onyemuwa, said that the organisation is doing its best to meet the deadline given to them.

He said the construction work is going on at the expected pace, adding that his company is determined to ensure that the quality of job meets taste of the state government.

He explained that he has completed to the roofing stage the construction of 540 stalls, while the construction of another 230 new ones are currently at the foundation level, “we will ensure that the job is finished at the right time,”he said.

Th company said that the state government has not defaulted in its financial obligations to the company. tstressing that the state

Abia From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

governor, Theodore Orji has never faulted in Onyemuwa said that the new market will have all the modern amenities found in any such market, “we are providing such facilities like banks, fire service, water, lights and parking lots for those who will be coming to the market to do their businesses”.

He noted that the stalls are made up of 20 stalls to a block and that they have been working for about one month, stressing that with the current speed they are working, the deadline given to them will be met.

Reacting to the development, the Special Adviser to the state governor on Project Monitoring, Pat Mgbemena, said that the construction of the modern market is very important to the governor and once the market is moved to the new place, the state capital will have space for other things.

Anambra introduces free health

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Akwa Ibom “We are training them in marketable trades like welding and fabrication, plumbing, catering, hairdressing, computer operation, and GSM repairs.

“Other areas covered by the skills training include outboard engine maintenance, video production, photography and cane chair production,” she said.

She said that the training would last six months, adding that during the period, the trainees would be paid monthly stipend of N5, 000 each.

“The 450 youths and women will be resettled so that they will be self-reliant and even employ others.

“We are hopeful that the state government, corporate organisations and individuals will give assistance to them to further encourage people to embrace self-employment ventures in the state. “ She said that a member of the state House of Assembly had assisted the directorate in establishment of a skills training centre at Udong Uko Community and praised him for the effort.

Osunkwo, while urging people to emulate the lawmaker, she said that the directorate needed support because the Federal Government could not do it alone.

• Governor Obi

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HE Delta State government has promised to partner with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in the development and construction of quality roads in the state.

The state Commissioner for Special Duties (NDDC and BRACED Commission), Mr Chris Onogba, made this known in an interview with journalists in Asaba,the state capital.

Onogba said that the state government would also collaborate with other agencies in the provision of health facilities and human capital development.

He said all the sub-sectors where the government would collaborate with NDDC had been articulated and presented to the commission.

Onogba expressed confidence in the current

•Managing Director, Unilever, Mr Thabo Mabe (left) and Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr Bimbo Ashiru at OMO 50th anniversary an relaunch celebration in Lagos.

Delta NDDC board, saying that the new members were God-fearing people, who were committed to the development of the area.

He expressed regrets that the former board could not achieve much because its activities were characterised by intrigues and internal squables.

He noted that the present board and the states in the region had put measures in place to ensure prudent management of resources as well as to eliminate the cases of “overlapping of projects”.

“In this regime, the states and the commission have also resolved to end the bazaar where contractors collect money and abandon the projects, ’’he said.

Anambra From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

lamented that politics in Nigeria was devoid of civilised norms, thanked Governor Obi for championing a paradigm shift by encouraging service in governance.

Concluding, he also commended Obi for the befitting burial accorded Dim Emeka Ojukwu, saying that by so doing, he brought honour to the Igbo race.

Earlier in his remarks, the state Commissioner for Health, Prof Amobi Ilika said the present government was committed to addressing inequality in the state which was the reason development was being taken to remote areas that never witnessed it before.

He enjoined the hospital managers to deploy the ambulance for their outreach mission of saving lives.

Explaining the rationale for assisting hospitals owned by voluntary agencies, the commissioner said the present government saw them as collaborators rather than competitors.

In a related development, the governor donated a brand new 18-seater van and 10 desktop computers to Austin Memorial Secondary School, Nanka and Holy Family College, Isuofia. He advised the students to be serious with their studies which according to him, were the basic currency they need to conquer the future. He also tasked the students to be of strong moral character.

Replying, the Principal, Rev Fr (Dr) Cosmas Ebebe thanked Obi for introducing civilised order into governance in the state . He also commended the governor for the support to missionary institutions, especially in the recent handover of schools to them and grant of six billion naira for rehabilitating the schools.

‘Southsouth economic conference to fast track development’

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The Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC),Dr Christian Oboh, has said that the recently concluded South-South economic conference will fast track development in Niger Delta.

Oboh told newsmen in Port Harcourt that the conference, held in Asaba, was strategic to the overall development of the region.

He said it provided stakeholders in the region the opportunity to brainstorm over critical issues affecting the area with a view to exploring ways of addressing them.

Oboh expressed delight over the meeting, saying “for us, this is a new dawn. We are excited because a new tone has been set for NDDC’’.

Oboh explained that NDDC, being an intervention agency, had not operated in

By Toba Agboola

children development and this is about nation building, he emphasises.

In line with the claim that the brand has grown over the years helping men and women to make their lives better, the company led by the Managing Director, Thabo Mabe, unveiled what the management referred to as ‘a new mix of this great brand in the gold year of Omo”.

According to the Managing Director, notwithstanding the 80 years of Unilever in Nigeria, the company will continue to create great heritage brands. “In Unilever, the consumer is the heart of our strategy. We work everyday to create better life for everyday’s activity”.

To demonstrate that the Omo brand had and would continually rejuvenate itself, the new Omo multi-active detergent is said to be the best stain remover from Omo. “The new Omo deploys a new technology of removing tough stains one step”. Mr. Thabo reiterated that with the new Omo, stain removal will no longer be a worry”.

NAMBRA State is set to introduce free health in hospitals across the state in the specific area of child delivery.

This was revealed by Governor Peter Obi while handing over a brand new ambulance donated to the Aguata Anglican Diocesan hospital, Umunze to the Archbishop, His Grace Christian Efobi.

Making the presentation, the governor reiterated the state government’s commitment to continue to assist the Church develop their own facilities, arguing that those facilities served the interest of the people of Anambra State .

Archbishop Efobi said in an address that since 1981 when the hospital was established, successive governments did not show interest in its progress until now. Commending the governor for the gesture, he encouraged him to continue partnering with the Church for the good of the society. The archbishop, who

Delta to partner NDDC on roads

Firm marks 50th anniversary HE management of the Unilever Plc, owners of the leading detergent brand,Omo, has disclosed that in its 50th year of introduction into the Nigerian market, the brand has sold over 40 billion packs to consumers and users in the country.

The Brand Building Director, Unilever Plc, David Okeme, made the revelation at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos during the 50th anniversary celebration of the iconic brand.

Okeme said: “As at the last count, Omo sales were in excess of 40 billion mark” and therefore, has a reason to celebrate.

He revealed that Omo production in Nigeria began in 1962 and that qualifies the brand as a fully fledged citizen of Nigeria as it came in at the beginning of the nation’s independence.

According to him, the setting up of Omo factory in Aba was Unilever’s first show of confidence in a young nation (Nigeria) that had just been born. “It was right here at the beginning and it’s still going strong. Omo has grown with the crop of our leaders today. It was about bright sparkling fabrics”. The DNA of the Omo brand, according to Okeme, is

47

• Sales and Marketing Director, Lorna Nig Ltd (makers of Amigos hair) Mrs. Titilola IgriOffor (right), presenting prize to winner of hair stylist competition held at the National Stadium Surulere, Lagos

Cleric urges Jonathan to tackle insecurity

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has been urged to give priority attention to security and unity of the country.

The call was made by the Spiritual Leader of Ijo Temitope, Ogo Oluwa Parish, Lagos, Apostle Julius Mose.

He said the insecurity in the country and incessant bombings in some parts of the country called for sober reflection. The bombing which is almost turning the country into pariah nation, should be what occupies his mind.

He said: “No one person can singlehandedly complete any task of nation building or correct the ills of society.

Former South Africa president, Nelson Mandela did his best, he had the option of going for a second term but he opted out to pave way for others, today the man remains a hero in the world.”

Moses maintained that it is God that gives power and therefore people who find their way into positions of authority should know that it is God that put them there and should do the bidding of the people because the voice of the people is the voice of God. He stressed the need for religious harmony because Christians and Moslems worship the same God and there was no need for senseless killing as perpetuated

by Boko Haram sect which had made churches their major target.

By Musa Odoshimokhe

He said: “We have now come to understand that the issue of Boko Haram is not a religious affair. Those running the country know these people and it is time they sit together to address this problem that had taken over the security of the country.

“People are daily becoming impatient with what is happening; those who go to churches are now afraid to do that because of unpremeditated attack likely to be unleashed

by Boko Haram and each time it is done, government will come out to say they are on top of the situation.”

The cleric stated that with what is happening, it is very obvious that the country is at a crossroad.

This, according to the Bible, has been heralded that when sign terrible sign manifest the people should be weary because it signifies endtimes.

•Rev Moses

Rivers

•Mrs Musurat Akinsanya a beneficiaryreceiving a grinding machine from ACN Mainland Independent Group Chairman, Mr Kayode Aransiola and Mrs Ade Oyemade during the second empowerment and distribution of Certificate to Recharge card Trainees, sponsored

by Commissioner for Environment, Mr Tunji Bello, at Sabo, Yaba, Lagos PHOTO: DAYO ADEWUNMI

Governor’s wife advocates empowerment of physically challenged

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HE Wife of Rivers State Governor, Mrs Judith Amaechi, has called for more special education centres for the physically challenged persons to make them have a sense of belonging.

In a statement made available to reporters in Port Harcourt, Amaechi made the call while commissioning the Christie Toby Inclusive Education Centre.

The statement noted that persons with disability had the right to live and excel in life due to their contribution to the growth and development of country’s economy.

“Some of them have brought honour and laurel to our country in sports and academics,” Amaechi noted.

She said that based on these records, Governor

Chibuike Amaechi had initiated a policy that would protect their rights and privileges.

Amaechi said that the government had also given them access to basic education, adding that physically challenged persons who distinguished themselves in academics were awarded scholarships to study abroad.

“This is because access to education is the surest way to empower them economically, socially and otherwise.”

She, therefore, praised the proprietress of the centre which she described as timely, adding that it would contribute to the empowerment of the physically challenged.

The Managing Director of the centre, Mrs Christie Toby, thanked God for the vision to embark on the project.

isolation but worked in synergy with other stakeholders, especially member states, to deliver its mandate to the people.

The NDDC boss said the conference had enabled stakeholders to discuss ways of ensuring speedy development of infrastructure and the economy in the region.

“We need to actually let the people own projects that NDDC will execute and if all the states will begin to buy into our vision, then our problems are solved.”

Oboh reiterated the commission’s commitment to judicious utilisation of funds for execution of projects that would impact positively on the lives of the people of Niger Delta.

Communal crisis: Ebonyi calls for delineation of boundaries

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HE Chairman Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Hon Celestine Eze, has called on the National Boundary Commission to urgently demarcate the disputed land between the Lopka Community in Umunnochi Local Government Area of Abia State and Ameze Community in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State to end the hostility between the neighbouring communities.

Hon Eze, who made the call in Abakaliki in a

Briefly

Church holds programme THE Prayer Mountain Ministries will hold a seven-day Halleluyah programme from May 27.The venue is 38, Kayode Street, by Toll Gate, Onipanu, Lagos. The theme is: Come let us reason together .

Speaking on the programme, the chief host, Pastor Olusola Balogun Adewunmi said it would be an all round Halleluyah worship with other anointed men of God including Pastor Toyin Adewunmi, Pastor Michael Adewale, Pastor Olanrewaju Abraham, Pastor Femi Adewunmi and Pastor (Mrs) Ngozi.

Guest artistes such as PMM Golden Edges, Dare Melody, Evang. Temitayo Christianah (Irawo) will minister inspirational songs.

Ebonyi From Ogbonnaya Obinna Abakaliki

press conference on the alleged kidnap of a young Lokpa girl by Ameze youths and the killings of innocent people, regretted the distortion of information by the Lopka people and said that such action is capable of generating further crisis between the two communities.

According to him, “in the last one week, we have been reading in the papers allegations of loss of several lives in renewed hostilities by the two communities, it is regrettable and unfortunate that the Lopka people and the State House of Assembly would allege renewed hostility in the disputed land, we want to state it clearly that there is nothing of such.

“No life has been lost since the dispute between the two communities started, the only time a life was lost was in early 1990s when an Ameze man was shot by a Lokpa person but the Lokpa people claimed that the man that shot the Ameze man was a madman, thank God what could have resulted to a serious communal war was peacefully resolved while the Ameze people took their son home and buried him”.

“Again, about some weeks ago, a man from Lokpa community went to the disputed land and started erecting a structure there and when the Ameze people saw what was happening, they mobilized the youths and went to the place and closed the foundation the man was still making.

•From left: Mr Starley Ihanruor; Mr Debo Adeniran, Executive Chairman, Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders, (CACOL); Commrade Babatunde Ashafa ,Leader/Founder Civil Society Club of Nigeria (CISOCON) and Dr Aderonke Ademokoya, President, Benevolent Foundation for Aged and Widows during an album launchi/ press conference by Civil Society Club of Nigeria under the plattern of its Commande Society at Airport Hotel, Lagos PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAM

Governor assures on infrastructure

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GUN State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun has assured residents of his administration’s commitment to the continued development of socio-economic infrastructural facilities in the state.

He also assured residents of Ijebu Northeast Local Government of his willingness to fulfill his campaign promises of upgrading infrastructural facilities in the council and providing new ones.

Amosun stressed that the state’s commitment is attracting investments and urged land owners and traditional rulers in the council to ensure easy access to land by intending investors.

The governor said attraction of investment and the improvement on infrastructure formed part of his government’s strategy of eradicating unemployment and growing the state

economically.

Amosun spoke during a one-day official thank you visit to residents of the Ijebu Northeast Local Government. He assured land owners and traditional rulers of his administration’s plans to compensate such land owners who gave up their lands for investment purposes.

The council’s Chairman, Transition Committee, Idowu Osimade praised the governor for his gesture and visit. He also assured of his commitment to infrastructural development and urged the residents for their continued support.

The council’s Acting Chair, Traditional Council, Sadereren of Isoyin, Oba Funso OmoOgunkoya praised Osimade for his effort so far in developing the council. He urged him to do more particularly in the area of infrastructural development.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

The sacked doctors • The physicians put filthy lucre ahead of the Hippocratic Oath

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OR over 23 days, striking doctors in Lagos State under the aegis of Medical Guild defied reason by abandoning their duties - ab initio- in a threeday warning strike from April 11 to 13.

This was followed by a full-blown strike on April 16 - the anti-climax of which led to the sack on Monday by the state government of 788 doctors. The sacked doctors include 316 working for the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and 472 from the other hospitals across the state.

In a reported on-going recruitment drive, 373 qualified medical doctors have been newly employed to immediately replace the sacked ones in the various hospitals. The Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola administration was forced to wield the big stick since the doctors were not willing to retrace their steps.

Doctors have every reason to demand for better conditions of service. Under the excruciating economic conditions and the suffocating prevailing poverty level in the country, there is no doubt that there is more to be done to alleviate the welfare package of not only doctors but that of all workers. But we must not forget that this is subject to employers’ ability to fully meet employees’ wage increment demands. Moreover, doctors engage in essential duties that require circumspection, especially on matters that could unduly take them away from the hospitals like the just truncated strike- putting lives of patients at risk in the process.

The proclivity of the sacked doctors’ leadership for strikes made nonsense of the Hippocratic oath they took to ensure protection of lives at all times. The doctors’ contempt for due process is unpardonable because, as essential service providers, they should have followed the stipulated lawful notice period so that patients in critical conditions in hospitals they work can seek alternative arrangements for their health conditions. But the doctors jettisoned this by availing government less than 24 hours notice that was barely enough for the patients to make alternative arrangements. What manner of doctors will show lack of empathy for their patients because of their urge to get ‘full’ pecuniary gain from government? Sadly, several patients lost their lives in the doctors’ avoidable strikes in recent time.

Without giving any meaningful consideration to their patients’ plight as reflected in the Guild’s letter dated April 10, with which it served a notice of strike on government, it stated that ‘following the non-implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Scale(CONMESS) in full by the Lagos State Government..’ it was embarking on a three-day warning strike.

Apart from the fact that this notice was so short, it is a flagrant violation of provisions of the Labour law that provides for not less than 15 days notice before the commencement of any strike. We ask; why should the Guild insist on full im-

plementation of CONMESS that was the creation of the Federal Government in a federation like Nigeria? The sense in federalism should have been to allow the component units pay their workers according to their ability. The doctors feigned ignorance of this fact and carried their activism too far.

It is trite that no responsible government will fold its arms and allow some professionals hold it to ransom by putting lives of those they are paid to protect in jeopardy. The decision of the Lagos State government to sack the doctors must have been informed by the over-riding public interest of restoring sanity to public hospitals in the state.

This is the best opportunity for the doctors who are not satisfied with what the state government has to offer to seek for jobs in other states that can pay the CONMESS in ‘full.’

‘What manner of doctors will show lack of empathy for their patients because of their urge to get ‘full’ pecuniary gain from government? Sadly, several patients lost their lives in the doctors’ avoidable strikes in recent times’

Adieu Rashidi Yekini • One of Nigeria’s most storied heroes departs in cloudy circumstances

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HE year was 1994. The country was the United States of America.

The event was that year’s World Cup soccer competition in which Nigeria was participating for the first time ever. The country’s opening match against Bulgaria was played at the Cotton Bowl, Dallas, on the 21 st of June. Perhaps the most memorable moment of that game was the 21 st minute when Nigeria recorded her historic first World Cup goal in a match the Super Eagles finally won 3 – 0.

Etched in the memory of soccer lovers is the image of the gangling 6ft 3’’ tall scorer of the goal running into the opposing team’s goal post, vigorously shaking the net and excitedly shouting his own name – ‘R-A-S-HI-D-I Y-E-K-I-N-I’! Last Friday, the world received the shocking news that the inimitably prolific goal scorer, who served his country with such passionate dedication, had died in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital, at the age of 49. It is certainly no exaggeration to say that Yekini’s demise marks the end of a remarkable era in Nigeria’s soccer history.

Born in Kaduna on 23 rd October, 1963, Rashidi Yekini started his soccer career at the UNTL in Kaduna before later playing, first for the Shooting Stars in Ibadan and later Abiola Babes of Abeokuta in Nigeria’s local league. Having made his mark on the domestic scene, Yekini moved to the International arena where he demonstrated his soccer prowess with such

Clubs as Africa Sports of Cote d’Ivoire, Olympiacos of Greece and Setubal of Portugal, among others. His most dramatic impact in this regard was certainly in Portugal where Yekini scored 90 goals in 108 club appearances and was the country’s first division top scorer in the 1993/1994 season.

Easily one of Nigeria’s greatest soccer heroes, Yekini featured for the country’s national team from 1984 to 1998 and set a yet unequalled record of scoring 37 goals in 58 appearances for the Super Eagles. Yekini represented the country in three Africa Cup of Nations and two World Cup tournaments. He played a key role in Nigeria’s winning the Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Tunisia in 1994 as well as the country’s impressive outing at USA ’94 – a tournament in which the Super Eagles was voted the most entertaining team.

For Yekini, it was always a pride to don the country’s national colours.

He asked not what his country could do for him but what he could do to achieve soccer glory for the Super Eagles. His dedication both to the game and to the country was unparalleled. It is a measure of his passion for the game and personal modesty that, even after his international career was over, Yekini still contributed his quota to the domestic league by featuring for Julius Berger in 2002/2003 and the Gateway Football Club, Abeokuta in 2005.

Given his iconic status and invalu-

able contributions to the development of soccer in Nigeria, it is unfortunate that Rashidi Yekini died in rather cloudy circumstances.

There had been speculations about the state of his mental health for some time as the soccer star reportedly lived in isolation with a few tenants in his house in Ibadan. He was hardly in touch with his former colleagues and rarely received visitors. It is certainly a collective indictment both of the state and the society that the life of such a prominent Nigerian could have degenerated systematically over time with no meaningful effort to help him. Now the tributes are pouring in when it is too late. The consolation is that he made maximum impact within a short life span. We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.

‘He was hardly in touch with his former colleagues and rarely received visitors. It is certainly a collective indictment both of the state and the society that the life of such a prominent Nigerian could have degenerated systematically over time with no meaningful effort to help him.

Now the tributes are pouring in when it is too late’

The secret life of your cellphone

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Na threat to the 4th Amendment, law enforcement is using location data as a crime-fighting tool.

Concerned that mobile phone networks are becoming surveillance tools, the American Civil Liberties Union recently askedhundredsoflocallawenforcementagencieswhetherthey’ve tracked people’s movements through their cellphones. Most of those that responded said they had, usually obtaining the information from mobile phone companies without a warrant. The practicehasbecomesoroutine,theACLUfound,thatphonecompanies are sending out catalogs of monitoring services with detailedpriceliststopoliceagencies.Thealarmingfindingsshould persuade Congress to clarify that the government can’t follow someone electronically without showing probable cause and obtainingawarrant.

The Supreme Court has long held that the 4th Amendment guarantee against unreasonable searches and seizures requires policetoobtainawarrantiftheintrusionwouldviolateatarget’s “reasonableexpectationofprivacy.”Thatstandardhasbarredlaw enforcementagentsfromsurreptitiouslyrecordingwhatpeople sayonthephonewithoutawarrant,evenwhentheconversation is taking place in a public phone booth. But the court and Congresssetasignificantlylowerbarformonitoringotheraspectsof aphone’suse.Thegovernmentcanobtainrecordsaboutnumbers dialedandcallsreceived—eitherfromthepastorliveandinreal time—withasubpoena,whichacourtwillgrantifshownthatthe records sought are relevant to an investigation.

Mobilephonenetworkscollectanothertypeofdatathatwirelinenetworksdon’t:Theyregisteraphone’slocationcontinuously as long as it’s turned on, even when it’s not in use. Those records can be exceptionally revealing; as the ACLU put it, the potential insightsrange“fromwhichfriendsyou’reseeingtowhereyougo to the doctor to how often you go to church.” Nevertheless, the JusticeDepartmentandmanylocallawenforcementagenciesview locationdataasnodifferentfromcallingrecords.Withtheacquiescenceofmobilephonecarriers,they’vebeenquietlycollecting this information through subpoenas, not warrants backed by a showing of probable cause. And in some cases, the subpoenas have been frighteningly broad; for example, one police department sought data on all the mobile phone users in the vicinity of aplannedprotest.

Thefactthatphonecompaniesarecollectingfeesforproviding this information raises the additional question of whether their financialintereststrumptheircustomers’privacyinterests.Lookingforananswer,Rep.EdwardJ.Markey(D-Mass.),co-chairman of the Congressional Bipartisan Privacy Caucus, recently asked the major wireless carriers how much money they’ve collected fromlawenforcementagenciesandwhethertheyactivelymarket theirinformation-gatheringservices.

Locationdatacanundoubtedlyhelpsolvecrimes,butthere’sa broaderprincipleatstake.Newtechnologyenablespeopletotrade informationaboutthemselves—sometimesconsciously,sometimes not — for commercial benefits, convenience and insights intotheworldaroundthem.Theyagreetosharethatinformation withserviceprovidersbecauseoftheuniquebenefitsitbrings— for example, users of the Roamz app can arrive in an unfamiliar town and see what previous visitors have said online about the best places to eat and stay. But if sharing this information automatically makes it the government’s for the asking, what will be leftofthe4thAmendment?

Agrowingnumberofcourtshavebeenpushingbackagainst the Justice Department’s permissive approach, but the rulings haven’tbeenuniform.Norarethereclearrulestodistinguishemergencies from routine investigations, live tracking from the examination of stored data, or any of the many other complexities.

Rather than trusting judges to sort it all out, Congress should make it clear that the protections that apply to phone conversations also apply to location data. No warrant, no tracking.

• Los Angeles Times

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

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina •Group Political Editor Bolade Omonijo •Group Business Editor Ayodele Aminu •Abuja Bureau Chief Yomi Odunuga •Sport Editor Ade Ojeikere •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho •Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

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IR: In recent times, base station masts owned by telecommunication companies have come under public focus largely due to the activities of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). The agency has shut down some base stations in certain areas of the country based on alleged violation of environmental laws and regulations by the companies.

The reasons for which NESREA is shutting down base stations are by undoubtedly germane. Issues relating to environmental compliance measures and protection of the health of the populace must be tackled with all seriousness. Thus, the onslaught on telecoms mast by the agency strikes somewhat of a populist chord with the citizenry.

There is no gainsaying the fact that base station masts are an integral infrastructure in the deployment of telecoms service. Thus, the quality of service offered by the companies is invariably linked to the existence/ maintenance of the masts. In other words, the issue of getting value for money falls into serious jeopardy when these masts are too often shut down. What this then means is that Nigerians are seen to be gaining in one area and losing in another. This surely is avoidable. A win-win situation can be struck if some restraint and discretion can be brought to bear by both agencies.

While the NCC promotes competition among telecom operating companies and has through its actions enforced regulations to ensure that

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Base stations: Between environment and quality of service the consumer is the ultimate beneficiary through transparent pricing and effective service delivery; the activity of NESREA must be seen to be complementary in a manner that ensures that the environment is not subject to continual degradation and the health of the people compromised. It is wrong to assume that the same regulatory authority which has sanctioned operators, compelling them to compensate consumers would turn a blind eye to alleged and even confirmed cases of environmental degradation through base stations.

The issue of radiation emission by

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base stations often put forward by those against the erection of base stations within the proximity of human inhabitation has not been scientifically proven as detrimental to the health of individuals. In fact, some academicians and professionals that have done some research have reported that emissions from base stations do not pose hazards; nor has there been any empirical evidence to show that lives have been lost or diseases contracted due to emissions from masts.

In another breadth, NESREA has reportedly claimed its action of sealing base stations of telecom compa-

nies is because the affected telecom companies did not act on its directive that they submit Environmental Impact Assessment reports of their base stations. This is a worthy directive. But its enforcement must be done with some measure of discretion after adequate and appropriate awareness and sensitization has been carried on the issue. It is not clear if that has been done. Besides, there is need to allow for time on this matter. For example, there are over 10, 000 base stations erected by telecom companies throughout the country.

Conducting an EIA on each of them is an uphill task, even for telecom

and discomfort in the midst of majority who are happy and contented.

Envy can lead to misplacement of priority and misapplication of sense of judgment where white remains black in their minds.

Everyday, what we hear is that the Governor is not performing while the man is sweating it out tirelessly on how to develop his state knowing fully well that his name is at stake. So this people are seriously saying that

the results of numerous work forces in Abia are existing only in their dreams? Rather than criticize constructively, their manifesto is only to insult the person of the Governor thereby trivializing issues.

Governor Orji was not expected to succeed by the perpetrators of evil who kept Abia in voodoo bondage and for that reason hell must be let loose. The revolution of development in Abia currently in less than eight

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• Abdul Kawo, Kano.

Abia government and its many critics

IR: In recent times, just as the government of Chief T.A Orji has revved up the machinery of development in Abia State, we are also witnessing an aggravated misdemeanor of a group who will want to be regarded as opposition.

The activities of these people who have eyes but have refused to see, smacks of an incurable envy.

Envy, just as it is a sickness has the tendency to continually brood evil

Oteh and Okereke-Onyiuke are dancing on Nigeria’s grave IR: The two are eggheads, no doubt. But they are eggheads without integrity ably encouraged by the omnipotent ‘Nigerian factor’.They are hardcore professionals doing some macabre dance of shame on the grave of Nigeria. Absurd, is it not? But tolerable in this clime!

Yes, they are dancing on the grave of Nigeria, for if the country were not dead and buried in the cemetery of corruption, the duo would be cooling their high heels behind bars now going by the revelations of their financial recklessness so far. But they are big fats with immunity supplied from high places. Truth is, behind the scenes they go back to their godfathers in our various government houses to pay homage. And you and I expect

operators which have huge monetary resources at their disposal.

Perhaps, NESREA ought to have given the operators a bit more time before shutting down the base stations. Sealing base stations may have the short term impact of stemming emissions from generators and reducing noise pollution but the pains caused subscribers who legitimately expect value for money should also be put into consideration.

More than ever, now is the time for collaboration between the NCC and NESREA. Shutting down base stations should be an exercise conducted on an agreeable template by both NCC and NESREA because doing so unilaterally no matter how noble the intentions of NESREA, is capable of eroding the gains of telecommunications which has been made over the years.

the country to progress? It is no curse.

We are the cause.

The capital market has been in the woods for a while now. Nigerians had thought that spirited efforts were being made to revive the once bubbling market until very recently when the House Committee on Capital market decided to dig into the crisis. The revelations are as revealing as they are bewildering.

The two gladiators now have been left unregulated for a long time.

Although one has been relieved of her job, the other is battling hard to save hers. There are eggheads and there are eggheads indeed..

So far, none of the two women has justified why she did what she did. It has been a clash of egos, accusations and counter-accusations. The tempo

is so high that their Harvard education has been an article of egoistical combat.

One said she went there to study, the other said she did not only go there to study but also lectured grade-A students there. By now,I am sure Harvard university will ashamed of these their alumni. My people, how does that address the issue of their lack of financial probity and professional integrity?

Thus far, Madam Ndidi, Obama’s friend, has been accused of using the Nigerian Stock Exchange money to buy Rolex watch for her accomplices among other sundry allegations. For Ms Oteh, a first class brain and former executive of African Development Bank, it has been a case of squandermania.And she is still retaining her post..

Well,if our anti-graft agencies fail to do the needful to rein in these two because of their supposed connections in high places, it is to be noted that all of them are already condemned in the vigilant courts of the masses. If it were possible, I will advise Harvard university to revoke the diplomas given to these women. And to the University of Nigeria, do you still see Madam Ndidi as worthy of the professorial title given her on account of her ‘giant strides in capital market studies? And to the ultimate regulator, President Jonathan Goodluck, I leave you to your conscience to do what Nigerians are expecting: relieve Oteh of her job and send her with Ndidi to keep a date with our courts.

• Akinboyo Temidayo, Igbotako, Ondo State.

months of the second term of the governor is likened to a moving train without brake ready to crush doubting Thomases who stand as a cog in the wheel of progress.

They should understand clearly that power belongs to God and not in blackmail and who comes to equity must come with clean hands. The peculiar nature of Abia opposition is that shame is not in their dictionary.

If we must state this, it is from this same people that Abia was liberated, kidnapping stopped and yet they don’t have any sense of remorse nor do they care about the positive feeling of the majority who are behind the governor.

We all know that they are grandstanding for 2015. It takes a discerning mind to understand the developmental pattern of this government which is working from inside out, which will be proved when the ultra modern civil service secretariat powered by a lift, the first of its kind in the whole of south-east, or when the ultra modern market is being commissioned and the current market demolished; or when the new capital development area is being commissioned, all of which will lead to expansion of some existing roads in Umuahia metropolis.

• Ben Onyechere, Umuahia

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012 16

21

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Reality Bites Y

Readers’ parliament - 2 Goddess in embryo (Keeping faith with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala)

Olatunji Ololade

OU have just hit the proverbial nail on the head. Thank you, and well done. Yes, it is time for her to get off her high horse and sort out Nigeria’s financial mess before she can dream of conquering the world. I am deliriously happy that she didn’t get the World Bank presidency. She didn’t deserve it at all. 08027588214.

Olatunji my brother, thanks for your write-up. You spoke my mind.

A woman who has been here now for almost four and five years with nothing to show. In fact, shame on her. 08054600148.

Ngozi okonjo-Iweala has conspicuously written her name in the hands of time globally and in the country. Try to write your name in your field, Mister Man. 08060326687.

Tunji, we over-rated Aunty Ngozi. Yes aunty is very brilliant but not intelligent. For her to succeed at her duty post, she needs that native intelligence; that is the tonic she needs at her disposal to transform the economy. Secondly, she is not a patriot. It takes a patriot not to hold her country to ransom before agreeing to salvage her. all of them are come and chop. Ask Mr. Nkpako baba napep. Falaye Oreoluwa. 08098117071.

Hi, read your write-up on Okonjo-Iweala. It’s a good one though the tone of your article was quite abrasive. Cheers. Tokunbo.

08023306616.

Re: Goddess in embryo: OkonjoIweala knew with absolute certainty that she would not be World Bank President. She might as well

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have aspired to the position of Olori Ebi (Matriarch) of Obama’s clan. All that stuff was an elaborate charade.

This lady will jump ship.

08033705338.

When will you and your fellow tribalists see anything good and noble in persons of other ethnic nationalities who are either in positions of authority or aspiring for something? Okonjo-Iweala must have offended you guys at The Nation newspaper one way or the other. Please I apologize on her behalf. Leks. Port Harcourt.

08033104770.

Your writeup was stupid. You sounded like an unrepentant irredentist. Morhan. 08033296721.

The President Okonjo-Iweala serves admits that he is not the man for the job. Why should she and her supporters whine that the World Bank job went to the least qualified person? She should know that Nigerians have not forgotten her role in the fuel subsidy removal drama.

Payback time! Adeleke Foster.

08033208546.

Your write-up: “Goddess in embryo” is quite precise and accurate appraisal of Okonjo-Iweala.

Hoenstly, I know she was daydreaming to have thought she could clinch the topmost leading financial institution in the world. Morning they say, shows how the day will be like. Charity also begins at home. How could she be appointed when she could not manage the economy of her third world country? If the post is vacant a 100 times, she will not be appointed for obvious reasons. She should first re-

HE history of humanity’s progressive civilization centres on brave, dynamic and thinking men and women who refused to tread the beaten path, because they had realistic visions of a superior order of things and worked tirelessly to translate their visions to realities. They were not only essentially preoccupied by the desire to make human life better and richer in meaning, but transcend the banal rhythm of essential struggle. These classes of humans are often in the minority, particularly in this clime. Amongst this rare breed, the Oka-born Asiwaju of Akokoland, Senator Robert Ajayi Boroffice has a prime place. His life is indeed a classic in the study of selfless service for the uplift of humanity.

It is a well known fact that, Boroffice, the erstwhile Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) is a prescient leader with a track record of meritorious service to our nation.

His salutary contribution to space science and technology in Nigeria, Africa and the global community is legendary and indeed a subject that will definitely capture the attention of future historians in our land. Given that there is hardly any place in the recent history of Nigeria where few technocrats have done so much with so little and within a very short time like in Nigerian Space Agency under the innovative, qualitative, and dynamic leadership of Professor Boroffice.

As a superb architect of institutional development, when he envisioned that the rapid and sustainable development of Nigeria of necessity requires that we transcend the confines of “appropriate technology” to frontier technology, he began the process that led to the creation of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), National Information Technology Agency (NITDA), and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).

As the pioneering Director-General of Nigeria Space Agency Senator Boroffice facilitated the creation of six centres of excellence across the geo-political zones of Nigeria as well as ensuring the establishment of Nigeria Communication Satellite Company Limited.

It is evident that creating strong institution is not a norm in Africa. African leaders in different facets of human endeavours have a proclivity of attaining “Olympian” status in ways that dwarf and jeopardize the virility and vitality

shape the economy without inflicting pain by way of subsidy removal. The subsidy that actually never existed. Chief Apelogun from Oshogbo. 08188810889.

Hello Olatunji, I love your piece, “Goddess in embryo.” OkonjoIweala should concentrate on fixing our economy that has already been bastardized by corruption. Up till now, I have never set my eyes on the buses that Mr. President promised to send to alleviate the suffering that he sent to us as a New Year gift. Uzoma from Umuaka, Orlu, Imo State. 08035090540.

What’s your significant proposition to the solution of the problem?

What governance model do you idealize?...what’s your definition of corruption and what is the solution to corruption in a cultural diverse and sensitive environment as Nigeria? What is the dominant attitude that gives rise to corruption of values? 08037807701.

Goddess in embryo is a must-read.

One who has not read it has missed something…something very smashing. From Kehinde Olalemi.

Ibadan, Oyo State. 07041851806.

I agree with you that OkonjoIweala has failed to fix the economy.

It can never be repaired because the system is a caricature and a retarded child of Euro-American capitalism and the political system is a very bad imitation of the American system. Simply put the bourgeois economist and the social system has failed woefully. Where are the common needs of all humanity: food, shelter, clothing, education and good health? Amos Ejimonye.

Kaduna State. 08039727512.

Dear Olatunji, I must commend you for your article, “Goddess in embryo.” You write with som much profundity and fecundity. You

are a sharp-shooter! Keep up the ante. Lady Attorney. 08033097806.

Re: ‘Goddess in embryo’ is the most apt piece to drive home the point to our ‘darling’ Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. While the scenario was unfolding, I was aching over the yet to be asked question: “What has she done to save the battered economy at home (Nigeria) to merit the World Bank job? I prayed she should not get the job till she clears the mess of the fuel subsidy removal created by her draculean policies. She ran away the first time; no, not this time again. She must not be allowed to ditch Nigeria. Let her clear her mess. Olayinka A. Ajayi. Ekiti State University, AdoEkiti,Ekiti. 08033737836.

Sir Olatunji, your editorial comment in The Nation on Friday 20 titled “Goddess in embryo,” is a great masterpiece. I commend you highly for it. Obaro Simie.

08062778044.

I thank God that there are still journalists like you in Nigeria.

Your editorial and opinion is classical in all its ramifications. I have been working in an international organization for over two decades and I know the fundamentals and rudiments of the Breton Woods institutions. One of Ngozi OkonjoIweala’s greatest failures is claiming to be an insider of World Bank but failing to learn one important procedure of the financiers of the institutions. When other prospective candidates withdrew from the race, what she failed to understand was the humiliation awaiting her which those candidates have charisma to avoid. In her overgrown school girl attitude that simply means, she’s best qualified for the job. Thanks for making some of us in this country want to patronize

Ondo guber: Let the best man emerge

By Peter Ibie Osamuyi of public institutions. It is in recognition of this fact that Boroffice’s continued accentuation of the centrality of institution, strengthening and building to national transformation and human flourishing can be truly appreciated.

For Nigeria to catch up with her erstwhile development peers, she needs leaders of the likes of Boroffice who do not see public institutions as annexes of their private enterprises, but as key drivers of sustainable economic growth and development.

There is no gainsaying the fact that, the laudable developmental agenda of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), which in part focuses on institutional reforms and restructuring can best be actualized in Ondo State by the amiable Asiwaju of Akokoland.

Very recently, General Patrick Agu (Rtd) who spearheaded the creation of the space arm of the Nigeria Society of Engineers acknowledged publicly that he draws inspiration from the leadership example of Boroffice and that the space arm of Nigeria Society of Engineers was built on his legacies as an institutional builder.

Senator Boroffice once emphasized that “A society that fails to invest in the future may have no future at all”. The well-being of posterity is central to his aristocratic conception of meaningful and sustainable development. This is salutary against the backdrop that short-termism is the plague of the ruling elite in Nigeria. In fact, it is the bane of Nigeria’s development crises. Boroffice has re-echoed differently that, many Nigerians pine in misery because most of the nation’s political leaders are not prescient thinkers.

Their agenda for development fails to address foreseeable and avoidable socio-economic impediment that negatively impact on the peoples’ quest for good life.

The world acclaimed scientist has demonstrated sufficiently that the essential

objective of his voyages of discovery and exploration as well as his leadership ethos is to help extend the frontiers of knowledge and thereby significantly improve the lot of mankind. Simply said, his inspiring legacies recommend him as the ACN flag bearer in the forthcoming governorship elections in Ondo state.

I must quickly point out that, it will be a travesty of the ideals of merit based leadership which is the hall mark of ACN in the SouthWest, if agents of dystopia and political opportunities are allowed to subvert the popular choice. No one is fit to lead a people, except he or she who understands their collective aspirations and epitomizes their shared values.

Apart from the fact that Boroffice’s remarkable prudence as a manager of human and material resources enabled Nigeria to be the first nation in sub-Saharan Africa to own her satellite, the catalogue of novel space-based programmes he initiated has continued to play its strategic roles in the nation’s socioeconomic development. One of such project is the tele-medicine project, a network communication system he developed to extend clinical care to remote locations using NASRDA’s excess capacity in collaboration with a teaching hospital. The project was conceptualized and implemented to reduce infant mortality, improve maternal health, and combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases. One of the enduring gains of this project is that, it facilitated global partnership for the development of Nigeria’s health sector.

Therefore it is logical to anticipate that Boroffice will bring his wealth of experience to bear in the governance of Ondo State if given the privilege to serve as governor. By all standards, he has the requisite knowledge, experience and network to transform the state

print media.

Lawrence.

08098784961.

I am not from the north-west or east. The way you insulted OkonjoIweala is terrible. Why are you fighting that woman? You won’t do that to any of your kindred. So apart from you, no other is good? This is Nigeria’s problem. 07032523516.

I do not know why Okonjo-Iweala was desperate to become World Bank President. This desperate woman is eager to flee from Nigeria after doing a whole lot more to worsen the country’s plight economically and socially. It was amazing to watch her dress herself in borrowed robes and campaign for a job she never truly deserved. You have said it all, how could she worsen Nigeria’s plight and then seek to run away when her so-called Ivy League education and international experience should be put to good use. Okonjo-Iweala is simply a coward. She is too scared to face the challenges of the Nigerian economy. Even her own inactions cannot be undone by her; that is why she is desperate to desert Nigeria at the slightest opportunity.

Chioma from Oru West, Mgbidi, Imo State.

Chiintellectual66@rocketmail.com.

‘Ngozi okonjo-Iweala has conspicuously written her name in the hands of time globally and in the country. Try to write your name in your field, Mister Man. 08060326687’.

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

to a huge hog heaven by harnessing the boundless opportunities of science technology and innovation. He is poised to create a business environment in the state that will attract direct foreign investment and thereby contribute to the fulfillment of his visionary template of poverty reduction through cottage industry revitalization, job creation and infrastructural development.

Boroffice’s attitude for pursing development in a collective collaborative, historic and coordinated manner is legendary as seen in his various romance with destiny as lecturer, chairman committee of Deans, Acting ViceChancellor, chairman sub-committee of United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPOUS), council member International Academy of Astronautics among others.

Despite his ever busy schedule, Boroffice never lost contact with his people in Ondo State.

A grassroots’ man who is well known and highly respected by the people, his philanthropic roles, untainted accord, links, love and respect for his people earned him the most prestigious title of the Asiwaju of Akokoland which was unanimously bestowed on him by over 70 traditional rulers from the four local government areas that make up Akokoland, the largest ethnic group in Ondo State.

Aside from several awards and recognitions from different parts of the world in appreciation of his meritorious service, innovations and unique contributions, Boroffice has also received one of the highest awards in the country as an Officer of the Order of Niger (OON). And in 2006, Boroffice was declared and honoured as Ondo State Man of The Year at a well attended ceremony in Akure, the capital city of the Sunshine State.

Indeed Senator Boroffice is a consummate advocate of kind of state-society relations that enables a symbiosis of people-government visions, a new era of mass participation.

Boroffice’s foray into politics means development. His stated ambition to govern Ondo State means human capacity development. His enlightened politics means huge infrastructural development. His commitment to service means the beautification of the “ordinary” man. His principle politics means accountability and good governance. It is Ondo’s time to blaze the trail of massive development.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION ‘Arms alone are not enough to keep the peace—it must be kept by men.’

———John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917 1963)

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HERE is no doubt that in the country today, the most potent and civilised ethnic group is the Yoruba. In terms of development in all ramifications, the Yoruba is far ahead of others in the six geopolitical zones in the country. After God, one man and his cohesive team made this possible. His name is Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo (1909-1987) whose vision and political foresight during his time created an environment that made the western region one of reverence among others in the sovereign entity called Nigeria.

Through inspirational political leadership, Awolowo harnessed both human and natural resource endowment of his region to make life worth living for his people. He alongside associates like late Pa Adekunle Ajasin and others in their Action Group (AG) party came up with populous programmes such as free education, free health and affordable housing among others. His people revered him not because he forced himself on them but rather because they through his deft touch in public affairs believed that their future was safe in his hands. Whatever his personal shortcomings, Awolowo’s ascetic lifestyle, brain and prophetic skill in dissecting national problems and proffering indubitable solutions earned him accolades beyond the shores of the western region-sadly these were not enough to make him president of this country due to his sometimes bluntness that rattled the then avaricious political kingmakers. Awolowo lived for just 78 years when he died on May 9, 2007 having celebrated his last birthday on March 6 of that year.

To show us that he was far ahead of us in this country, he actually predicted his own death when on that occasion he said: ‘What I am celebrating today actually is the imminence of my transition to eternal life. The fact that I am happy to celebrate it means that the great beyond must be a happy place.’

Awolowo not only predicted his death but he admonished Nigerians not to place too much hope in the political transition programme commenced by General Ibrahim Babangida the is largely responsible for the laughable democracy being practised in the country today. As far as 1986 when the

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HAVE been following with great interest, the public utterances of major Northern politicians and intellectuals for some time. All the views of these, mainly prominent Hausa-Fulani northerners in recent times (Mr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Mauzu Babangida Aliyu, Northern Governors, Dr. Junaid Mohammed, etc) expose and reveal a clear obsession with the proceeds of Niger Delta oil and gas. In each case, after all the highfalutin and elevated language, it always ends up with Niger Delta Oil and Gas. Junaid wants to share the proceeds of oil and gas equally with the Niger Delta owners. The late Dr. Bala Usman even claimed that northerners were the real owners of Niger Delta Petroleum products, because the petroleum was washed down from the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue to the Niger Delta by the River Niger.

From the 1950 National Conference, through the 1953, 8-point Northern Declaration that the Federal Government should be reduced to a common Services Agency, to the immediate crisis period after the July 29 1966 Coup (in which the North wanted to pull out of Nigeria), it was the North that always clamoured for a very loose federation with every region enjoying full autonomy including fiscal federalism.

However, the moment oil and gas became major sources of income in our economy, the North did a 180 degree turn around.

They became strong supporters of a unitary type of federalism in which the North would be in charge of the centre, and in full control of Niger Delta oil and gas. The bitterness of the northern leaders over Dr. Jonathan’s declaration of intention to contest the 2011 Presidential election, and his eventual emergence as President, is directly related to the fact that the levers for the control of Niger Delta oil and gas, remain outside northern control. This resurgence of the battle for an equal share with Niger Deltans in the proceeds of their own oil and gas is all part and parcel of the northern addiction for the proceeds of that commodity.

If only northern Leaders will seat back and reflect, they will realize that this addiction has been very damaging to northern eco-

Indeed, Yoruba needs unity

•HID Awolowo Babangida political abracadabra began, Awolowo had put it on record to wit: ‘Something within me tells me loud and clear that what we have embarked upon is a fruitless search.’

The annulment of the 1993 presidential election won by Aare MKO Abiola-an illustrious and formidable Yoruba son, the stepped aside of Babangida, the foisting of Ernest Sonekan’s Interim National Government(ING) on the nation, the emergence of despotic Sani Abacha and opportunistic Abdulsalami Abubakar climaxed by the conspiratorial emergence of Olusegun Obasanjo as president under the guise of assuaging the rage of aggrieved Yoruba nation over the official murder of Abiola bore eloquent testimonies to the prophetic skills of Awolowo on the façade called

Babangida’s democratic transition programme.

Whatever acrimony created in the First Republic by the ‘demo’ and the AG Yoruba politicians were further accentuated by the blow dealt the progressives in the south west except Lagos under Asiwaju Bola Tinubu by Obasanjo’s reactionary elements in the People’s Democratic Party(PDP). The sad thing is that Obasanjo monitored and supervised that electoral rape on Yoruba nation most importantly in 2007.

The last man standing from that electoral rape was Tinubu and even outside power he used his resources and political sagacity to take power back from the PDP Awoist pretenders that ruled in the south west from 2003, 2007 till 2011. The only state that is yet to fall in the southwest is Ondo but the reality is that the emergence of Segun Mimiko’s Labour Party would have been impossible without the support of God and the indelible human efforts of Tinubu. The real electoral contest in that state comes up in October this year when Mimiko’s first term of four years will expire.

After years of acknowledged acrimony among the Yoruba leadership, it is good that a clergyman, Rt. Rev. Peter Awelewa Adebiyi, Bishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Lagos West Diocese, during the 25 years remembrance of Awolowo called on former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Lagos State Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu to unite the Yoruba within the Nigeria nation. He reportedly declared: “Twenty five years of acrimony and in-fighting is enough. A house

Niger Delta, oil and gas, the north and the future of Nigeria

By Professor Itse Sagay, SAN. nomic growth and development. As Mr. Lawson Omokodion stated in an article over 10 years ago: “At the end of every month, the 36 honourable commissioners of finance of all the states of the federation gather in a classroom session in Abuja presided over by the Federal Minister of Finance to share money that [has] accrued to the federation account based on a formula no one really understands. This money comes from three main sources – the oil money from the Niger Delta, the customs duty collections from the coastal/ports states and the VAT money mainly from Lagos State. After the sharing, the commissioners now head back to their respective governors to report what they have received and how to allocate to the areas of defined priority.

The way the funds [are] used is not the subject of this article but as you know easy come, easy go and because over two-thirds of the states do not suffer any pain in the generation of this federation account, they fritter the money away and wait for the next monthly allocation. And at the end of the next month, they all troop back to Abuja for the monthly routine. It is inconceivable for any state to grow with this type of economic structure that puts state governments on welfare benefits or what the Americans call the “dole”” The North has been the greatest victim of this total dependence on Niger Delta oil proceeds. The great export earning crops like groundnuts, cotton, gum arabic and many others have disappeared. Industries like the great textile industries and many others have died – all because of total dependence on monthly hand outs of Niger Delta oil proceeds.

The South has also suffered, but no where The only solution to economic growth and

development in the North and to a lesser extent some parts of the South is for the North to be weaned off Niger Delta oil proceeds.

They have to put a halt to this obsession and look inwards for their revenue – agriculture – solid mineral exploitation – resuscitation of collapsed industries, etc.

As for the rest of the country, the Southwest is already on the way to liberation from the shackles of Niger Delta oil proceeds. The East has the capacity because of their genius in commerce. The South-south has also commenced the process. I notice that Delta State has a major project on life without oil and gas. Rivers State is also embarking on major electricity generation (industry) and farming programmes. I urge the North to tear themselves away from this addiction to Niger Delta oil and gas proceeds and deliberately try to develop their resources in order to achieve independence for themselves.

True political and fiscal federalism in Nigeria is now inevitable. It will come whether the executive and legislative arms of government like it or not. It is the only way forward for Nigeria as a united entity. The Federal Government will revert to what it is meant to be, i.e., managing common services like defence, foreign affairs, immigration, currency, its own Police force, etc. States or zones will retain the bulk of their resources: about 60% for themselves and paying 20% contribution towards the running costs of the Federal Government, and another 20% as distribution fund for all states based on pre-determined criteria.

Nigerians tend to forget that the Federal Government does not have its own resources.

It collects oil and gas proceeds from Niger Delta, VAT proceeds from, mainly Lagos State, Customs duties from states importing goods, etc.

divided against itself cannot stand. It is time to forget the past, forgive one another and bring together a united nation.”

However, disagreement over political affiliation that happened in the First Republic is beneath the open secret tussle engulfing the Yoruba nation today. In barely over a decade too, those who never believed in the political philosophy of Awolowo had in recent past turned the Ikenne, Ogun state residence of the late sage into a haven of sort.

Those people merely used the opportunity of being in power to overwhelm the Awolowo family.

The call for Obasanjo and Tinubu to unite the Yoruba is in place but is Obasanjo truly interested in the unity of Yoruba nation? Has he at any time publicly acknowledged the leadership status of Awolowo? Why was Obasanjo not in Ikenne to celebrate Awolowo on Wednesday? Even his ex-convict buddy, Bode George was not listed as one of those that came for that memorable event. These are men that only use Awolowo’s name while in power to garner political goodwill but now see that great name to be of no consequence to their failed ambition to continue to rule this region and nation through electoral roguery and violence. I doubt if Obasanjo that once mocked Awolowo in one of his books for failing to achieve in his entire life time what he achieved with ease can be entrusted with bringing about peace in Yoruba land.

I disagree with Rt. Rev. Peter Awelewa Adebiyi that Obasanjo is a formidable son of Yoruba land. He might be regarded as an illustrious son of the tribe but not formidable because his electoral worth before his people is zero. He never won his polling booth in his entire eight years of being in power. What a shame! This is quite unlike Tinubu who overtime has become illustrious and formidable in Yoruba land and the politics of this nation.

The only way the Awolowo family and the entire Yoruba sons and daughters can foster peace in the region and sustain the Awolowo legacy is for us to at all time endeavour to isolate or possibly excommunicate those people amongst us like Obasanjo that are always out to make sure that the votes of our people do not count during election. Electoral injustice has been the bane of peace in Yoruba land and once this is corrected across the states of the region, there will be no need for any Obasanjo and Tinubu meeting that the former out of envy of the latter will not attend.

At the appropriate time, Governors will no longer spend 75% of their time in Abuja because they will be compelled to live on their own resources whilst contributing towards the running expenses of the Federal Government.

One more point, only a coastal state can have a continental shelf. Nigeria has a continental shelf today because Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom and Rivers States are part of Nigeria. It is no surprise therefore that the 1960 (Independence) and 1963 (Republican) Constitutions of Nigeria, stated quite clearly in respect of the petroleum resources in Nigeria’s continental shelf, that “For purposes of this Section [Section 140 of the 1963 Constitution] the continental shelf of a Region shall be deemed to be part of that Region”. So much for Dr. Junaid Mohammed’s claim to the oil and gas contained in the Niger Delta continental shelf.

It is therefore crucial that we as a country should start preparing to loosen the shackles of a suffocating federation and revert to true political and fiscal federalism in which states or zones will control their resources, enjoy full autonomy, and engage in healthy competition with other federating units for the development, peace, justice and welfare of the Nigerian peoples. That is the basis on which we agreed to associate with each other as a federation, as reflected in the 1960 and 1963 Constitutions.

‘It is therefore crucial that we as a country should start preparing to loosen the shackles of a suffocating federation and revert to true political and fiscal federalism in which states or zones will control their resources, enjoy full autonomy, and engage in healthy competition with other federating units...’

Moses set for SUMMER EXIT — AGENT

Pg. 41

MAIGARI LEADS NFF TEAM TO

Pg. 24

‘YEKINI’ PRAYERS

Friday, May 11, 2012

FIFA RANKING

KESHI UNFAZED Pg. 24

BY

EAGLES’ SLIDE

• Keshi

FINALEPLCLASH Pg. 41

Taiwo: QPR won't ‘defend’against City

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

25

PEOPLE THE NATION

AN EIGHT-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

Lagos has a new Seriki Musulumi. He is Alhaji Nurudeen Alamu Shitta-Bey, who was turbaned and presented his staff of office last Sunday.AMIDU ARIJE was there.

•Shitta-Bey (middle) being decorated by Sheikh Akinola.

O

N Sundays, traffic is always light on Nnamdi Azikiwe Street in the heart of central Lagos between Monday and Friday. It is not unusual to find youths playing soccer on the free road, with a crowd cheering them. But it was a different story last Sunday. The road was jampacked with choice cars as Muslim faithful gathered at the Lagos Central Mosque for the turbaning of Alhaji Nurudeen Alamu Shitta-Bey as the seventh Seriki Musulumi of Lagos.

By 9.30a.m the Shitta-Beys and their friends had arrived for the ceremony scheduled for 10am. Historically, the Seriki Musulumi title is reserved for the Shitta-Bey family. According to the Baba Adinni of Lagos, Sheikh Abdul Hafeez Abou, “The appointment of Seriki Musulumi of Lagos is restricted to the family of Shitta-Bey of Lagos whose house is solely to select the candidate and present same to the Executive Council of the Lagos Central Mosque for official appointment”.

The title, he added, was bequeathed to the Shitta-Bey family for the significant contributions of its patriach, the late Alhaji Muhammed Shitta to Islam. Shitta, he said, built the first historic mosque in Lagos.

Bey was added to his name when he was given a title in Turkey for his support for Islam.

“The origin of Seriki Musulumi of Lagos was by Alhaji Muhammed Shitta-Bey who was made Baba Jammah until when the title of Baba Jammah was changed to Baba Adinni.

Alhaji Muhammed Shitta-Bey merited the titles of Seriki and Bey at home and abroad, the position was that one leads to the other, it was the latter that leads to the former.

Alhaji Muhammed Shitta-Bey made

Seriki Musulumi in crowd pulling show significant contributions towards Islam in those early days. The singular role played by him caused the Turkish government to honour him with the title ‘Bey’ which became an eye opener for the Muslim community of the then Lagos to bestow on him the title Seriki Musulumi of Lagos,” he said.

The event was anchored by Alhaji Razak Gawat. It was a spiritual ceremony where the Quran was recited.

The Shitta-Beys radiated joy. The Seriki Musulumi was all smiles as he went round, greeting guests.

He was turbaned by the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Ibrahim Garuba Akinola, assisted by Sheikh Abou and others. dignitaries in performing the task.

Shitta-Bey was also officially handed his staff of office; following which the guests hailed him Seriki Musulumi.

From the mosque, the guests headed to Iga Idugarran, the palace of the traditional ruler of Lagos, Oba Riliwan Akiolu for royal blessing. Oba Akiolu prayed for peace and harmony during Shitta-Bey’s tenure.

They left the palace for the Oluwole playing ground opposite the Lagos Central Mosque for the reception.

The Ansaru-ud-deen Youth Association of Nigeria (ADYAN) singers wing entertained guests.

The reception was chaired by former Lagos State Governor Alhaji Abdul Lateef Jakande,who charged the Seriki Musulumi to bring Muslim faithful together in the discharge of his duties. He prayed that Allah guides him aright.

Because of the late Alhaji Muhammed Shitta’s exploits, in Turkey, emissaries from that country led by Zubayir were present at the ceremony.

Alhaji Shitta-Bey promised to make an impact in the life of the people. He promised not to breach the trust reposed in him.

In attendance were former deputy governor of Lagos Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu, a representative of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Issa Jimoh Balogun, the Ajikobi of Ilorin; Alhaji H.A.B Fasinro; Karunwi III and Osile Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso; Secretary Lagos Central Mosque Alhaji Raji Adenowo; the Olori-Ebi of the Shitta-Bey family, Alhaja Hamdalat Kabiawu among others.

•More pictures on page 26

•Shitta-Bey holding his staff of office

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

26

SOCIETY • Continued from page 26

•From left: Alhaji Fasinro; former Supreme Court Justice George Oguntade and Alhaji Umaru Saro

•From left: Alhaja Kadija Shitta-Bey; Mr Monsour Kekere-Ekun and Alhaji Jakande

•From left: Alhaji Balogun; General Manager, United Bank of Africa, Usman Isiaka and a Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lawal Ganiyu Ademola

•Oba Tejuoso and his son, Femi

•L -R : Mrs Moji Benson and Mrs Olagbaju Patricia

•Chief Tunde Shitta

•From left: Mrs Ponby Olakanpo; Mrs Vivian Onyebukwa and Mrs Biola Agoro

•From left: Mrs Bunmi Tomiwa; Mrs Temitope Bashuwa and Chief (Mrs) Ranti Adepoju

•Yeye Lanre Onabanjo And Mrs Kemi Jaiyesimi

•Cross-section of delegates from Turkey

•Chief Rasheed Williams

PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

27

SOCIETY

‘It’s a long, but happy wait’ All parents pray to see their children get married. The Afuns’ and the Doregos’ prayers were answered when their daughter Yewande Adedunni and son Adetokunbo Bernadino got married at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral, Ikeja, Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

•Groom’s parents, Mr and Mrs Doregos

•Mr Oresanya flanked by his wife Adenike (right) and Mrs Funmi Deile •The couple, Yewande and Adetokunbo, cutting the cake

A

WEEK before the show stopping wedding, they were engaged at an elaborate ceremony in Lagos. The engagement at the Balmoral Events Centre, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos Mainland foreshadowed the main show.

At the engagement, the Afuns returned the bride price paid by the groom’s family– apparently saying their medical expert daughter was not for sale.

On the day of their wedding, the look on the face of the groom, Adetokunbo Bernadino Doregos, was that of fulfilment. He was happy that finally he is taking his heartthrob, Yewande Adedunmi Afun, to the altar.

The bride told The Nation that she was delighted exchanging marital vows with Adetokunbo.

The colourful wedding was the climax of their intimate relationship.

Most of the women were clad in orange.The men were resplendent in their dressing.

The parents of the couple were stunning.

During the service, Yewande stole glances at her beau, smiling shyly.

She looked divine in her figure hugging beaded gown.

The groom looked great in his double-breasted grey jacket suit and a cravat.

They were the cynosure of all eyes as they took their first tentative steps into marital life.

The bride took the only Bible reading fromEphesians 5:2223.

Officiating priest Rt Rev Akin Odejide, the Bishop of Ifo Diocese, gave a sermon on the ABC of Christian marriage, which he said would assist them: “A is for acceptablity.

Though you have similarities and dissimilarities, be ready to accept your weaknesses and strengths.

“B: be involved. Don’t be passive as it takes two to tango.

Marriage is not give and take so be ready to make sacrifices and pocket your pride.

•Prince and Princess Uzuazoraro Emaviwe

“C: celebrate your union. If no one does, do it for yourselves. Yewande, keep your husband and Tokunbo, the beauty of your wife is in your hands. Be satisfied with what God has given you and don’t compare. Trust each other and be the crown on her head. May you grow old together.”

The expansive hall of The Haven, where the reception took place, was packed full. It was decorated in gold and orange. DJ Ziz thrilled with oldies and classical music from the 90s.

It was fun all the way from the moment the couple stepped into the hall, dancing to the beats of D’Banj’s Oliver Twist and Whizkid’s Kapkulumo, till the cutting of the five-layered white flower cake.

Many wriggled their waists and nodded in rhythm to the beats.

Notable personalities at the wedding included Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who chaired the event; the wife of Lagos State governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola; former deputy governor Princess Sarah Sosan; Commissioner for Environment Tunji Bello; Managing Director, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Ola Oresanya; wives of the Osiele of Oke-Ona Egba; Oba Adedapo Tejuoso Mrs Ganiat Fawehinmi; members of staff of St Bernadette Education Services; those from the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where the bride works and friends of the

couple.

Ace comedian Gbenga Adeyinka thrilled the guests with rib-cracking jokes as the Master of Ceremony.

Mohammed described marriage as the most unique institution in the world where there is no time to enter and no time to finish. “In marriage, you get the certificate the day you start the journey. And it is only those who fail that graduate.”

Proposing the toast Dr Lamide Agomeji relived how the couple started. “It all started on a Saturday evening while chatting with Dunni. I can’t say how happy I am being in the centre of something so wonderful and beautiful. So, let’s toast to friendship, technology and love”.

Like many brides, it was a dream come true for Yewande.

“Finally, after a long wait, I am happy.”

On how she met her beau, she said: “We met through a mutual friend. We chatted on Blackberry before we finally met. He proposed in a special way in a Chinese restaurant over dinner, got all our family friends and those close to us and proposed before giving me food. As a matter of fact, he’s very caring and loving and always has my time.”

Adetokunbo reiterated what his bride said: “I couldn’t allow her eat till she had given me an answer and calmed my anxiety. I only brought those who mattered the most to us to share the moment with us. My

•The bride’s parents, Mr and Mrs Afun (right), and Alhaji Mohammed

•Dame Fashola (left) and Princess Sosan

joy knew no bounds knowing I am married to this sweet, kind and wonderful lady. I love her and will never stop.”

The bride’s mom, Mrs Afun said: “I feel on top of the world.

There are butterflies in my tummy. I see Tokunbo as very

responsible. He is an administrator and having been able to successfully administer three schools, he should be able to administer his home.”

She advised the couple look in same direction and accept their faults.

The groom’s mother Mrs Doregos said:“This is what every parent to looks forward to. Children, who will finish their education, graduate, get a job, get married. What else can one ask of God?” She described her daughter-in-law as a calm, humble and hardworking girl.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

28

WHAT AND WHERE?

TANUS PUBLICATION DINNER AND AWARD NIGHT IN LAGOS

Forum

T

HE Renaissance Hotel, Ikeja will tomorrow host members of the Nasirullahi li Fatihu Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) and the public to an interactive session.

Inauguration

T

•Alhaji Abdullahi Akinbode

T

•Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi flanked by former Governor of Cross River State Donald Duke (right) and Publisher , Vanguard Newspapers Sam Amuka-Pemu

•Dr Doyin Abiola

HE Apostolic Church, Isheri Osun District, Ijegun Area will be inaugurated on Sunday, May 13 at 9 am by the Area Superintendent, Pastor E. S.Udoh

Funeral

ODAY the funeral service of the former DirectorGeneral of Lagos State Waste Management Authority Adebayo Olaolu Adeyemi, an engineer, will hold at Christ Anglican Church, Ode-Remo Popoola Sogbetun Street, Ode-Remo.

His interment follows immediately at his residence in Ode-Remo. Reception for the guest follows immediately at Ode-Remo town hall.

Maolud Nabiyyi

T

OMORROW, the Mislaf Al-Mursalinan Islamic Foundation will hold its Seventh Maolud Nabiyy celebration.

The Ogun State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun is expected on the occasion as special guest.

The event will hold at 11, Alhaja Ojukotimi Street off Custom Cold Room, Alakuko B/Stop, Dalemo, Akera, Lagos.

Conference

T

ODAY the Island Club will hold its Annual General election at the club’s house Onikan, Lagos.

Wedding •Noble Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka (left) and Chief Ajibola Ogunsola

•From left: Yinka Fisher; Minister of Foreign Affairs Gbenga Ashiru and wife Kehinde

‘We share many things in common’ It was May Day. While workers were busy celebrating the day, Akinolu Agboola and Motunrayo Ekundayo were getting married in Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE writes.

T

HOUGH it is rare to have church weddings on Tuesdays, Akinlolu and Motunrayo broke the norm to get married on Tuesday. It also fell on May, the Workers Day. They were joined in holy matrimony at the Ikoyi Baptist Church, Lagos.

The service was officiated

by Rev Abayomi Lawal.

With the Processional hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name, the ceremony kicked off with the father of the bride leading his daughter into the church, to the waiting the groom and clerics, who showered the couple with prayers.

Rev Lawal urged the couple to hold firm to the teachings of the Bible and make it their companion.

While advising the couple, he said: “The Bible is God’s word. It is the word of life and love of God to mankind. May the Lord help you both to follow the injunctions in God’s word all the days of your life.”

After the church service, the bridal train moved to Incubator Hall, Oniru, Victoria Island, for the reception.

They posed for photographs and received congratulatory messages from friends, family members and well-wishers, who came to share in the couple’s joy.

The groom was dressed in a white and black suit with a black shoe to match.

The bride was angelic in her flowing white gown.

They rode in a black Mercedes jeep to the venue of the reception.

On announcing their arrival into the hall, the guests rose to welcome them.

They kept guests glued as they danced all the way to the podium.

The bride was full of smiles, signifying her joy and excitement.

The groom, Akinlolu, was also excited.

Both parents were also not left out in the joy, as they welcomed their guests with joy.

The groom’s father was dressed in aso oke with neck beads to match. So, it was for his wife.

Mrs Rebecca Agboola, the groom’s mother encouraged the couple to sustain each other with the love of God. “They should hold on to themselves and firmly to the God, they should not allow any third party in their affairs,” she said.

The groom’s father, Chief Ezekiel Agboola, advised the couple to borrow a leaf from their parents’ life styles, which has kept them going since they got married years ago. He prayed for a blissful conjugal life for them.

T

OMORROW, Olayemi Rukayat and Olagoke Abodunrin children of Olorunfemi Shittu, an engineer and Lanre Phillips, an engineer will be joined in the Holy Matrimony The wedding will hold at both the Army Officers Mess 6 Outer Marina, Lagos for the Islamic session and the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina for the Christian session.

The reception will hold at Habour Point, 4 Wilmot Point Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Symposium

T

OMORROW at the Lagos Airport Hotel, members of the ancient and Mystical Order, Rosae Cosae Crucis will hold their annual symposium.

Expected to deliver a lecture is Prof John Idiodi of the Department of Physics, University of Benin.

The event will be chaired by Hon Patrick Obahiagbon.

Wedding HE All Seasons Plaza Marquee, 24 Lateef Jakande Road, Agidinbgi, Ikeja, Lagos (opposite Cadbury) will tomorrow host the families of Chief Olatunde Onakoya and Mr Tolupe Cameroon-Cole to the engagement ceremony of their Onasolape Omolara and Eniola Olusegun.

T

•Compiled by Damilola Bamidele and Abike Adegbulehin

BIRTHDAY

•The couple Akinlolu and Motunrayo

• People’s Democratic Party chieftain / businessman, Hon Innocent Nwanodu Uchibuolu flanked by his wife Bola (right) and retired Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) boss, Mrs Caroline Sotunde during Uchibuolu’s 50th birthday celebration.

29 FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2012

Vol 4. No. 171

Maltina, a premium malt brand from the stable of Nigerian Breweries PLC , through its on-going National Consumer Promotions tagged Maltina Sharing Happiness Promo promised to give five brand new furnished homes and millions of Naira to consumers. Last week’s presentation of two of these homes by the Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries, Mr Walter Drenth, removed any doubt about the promise the drink giant made on March 22, during a press conference and on April 2, when the promo kicked off. WALE ALABI reports.

When Maltina connects with consumers I

NDEED it is only a super brand with a very large heart like Maltina that can catapult a man from a small “self-contained” rented apartment in a nameless suburb to the level of a property-owner in a high-brow area like Lekki axis in Lagos. Almost everyone present struggled with envy as the two lucky Nigerians,18-year-old Adeyinka Adeola from Mbiama, Rivers State and Moses Edewor, 22, from Yenegoa, Bayelsa State moved in to take possession of the threebedroom houses they won at the on-going promo.

Also, Thaddeus Ogadinma Ozuzu, a Port Harcourtbased satchet water seller, became the first consumer to win the N1 million prize, when he was presented his Maltina ATM branded card last week.

As it is very obvious, owning a home shows a measure of success in one’s life. It really does not come cheap because it is a desire that most people don’t meet in their life time no matter how hard they try. The excitement of living in a well-furnished apartment in a highbrow area in Lagos complements ones happiness of owning a house. No wonder the two lucky consumers were the cynosure of all eyes at the ceremony.

Against the backdrop of scepticism on consumer promotions in the country, the brand put in place necessary measures to ensure that the process of giving out the homes was as transparent as possible given the fact that the draws and presentations were done on national television with the winners contacted on screen to the full glare of Nigerians.

Adeyinka is a secondary school pupil of Government Secondary School, Okrika, Rivers State while Moses recently passed out from Mein Grammar School, Oloibiri in Bayelsa State and just wrote the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). He is quite optimistic of gaining admission to a tertiary institution in the country after scoring 247.

After presenting the keys of the new homes to the lucky winners, Mr Walter Drenth, declared that Maltina has made a bold statement that its consumers are special hence the need to provide a brand new home where they can continue to share happy moments as unified families. He enjoined the new occupants to make good use of the homes as it is theirs for ever. “You can even pass it on to your children as inheritance when you start having children,” he added.

The duo, who could not hide their excitement poured encomiums on Maltina for causing a radical turnaround in their fortunes. Adeyinka, who said he lives in a one room apartment with his parents and four siblings, thanked the brand for providing them a new home that is truly a home. On his part, Moses who lives with his married elder sister and four children said they live in an uncompleted two-room house.

“This house from Maltina is God sent. We pray that your business will grow in leaps and bound,” Moses said.

Why would a brand take a radical decision of providing homes, rather than the pedestal decision of providing less enticing prizes? Mrs. Ngozi Nkwoji, Senior Brand Manager, Maltina, said the reason for this is not far-fetched. It is the domino effect of the huge success of last year’s re-launch of the brand with a new packaging upgrade, new communication and revised positioning, which had a positive impact on the

•From right: Mr Walter Drenth, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries PLC with Moses Edewor winner of Maltina threebedroom home in Lagos and his guardians Mr and Mrs. Anthony Jebbah in Lagos

brand’s volume, market share and overall equity, which was felt by consumers, who shared in the good fortune, smiling home with fantastic prizes during the post launch period. The success of that year and the yearnings of consumers, Mrs. Nkwoji added, was what prompted the promo.

The promo, which runs till May 25, is crown corkbased with two categories of winning crown corks‘instant winning crown corks’ and ‘alphabet code crown corks’. For the ‘instant winning crown corks’ whatever is seen under the crown cork is what the consumer gets instantly! The prizes are shown under the crown corks and prizes can be redeemed at any of our 1,200 redemption centres located across Nigeria.”

The instant prizes include N1 million, N100, 000, which will come in form of a Maltina branded ATM card and other brand memorabilia, which include

‘The duo, who could not hide their excitement poured encomiums on Maltina for causing a radical turnaround in their fortunes.

Adeyinka, who said he lives in a one room apartment with his parents and four siblings, thanked the brand for providing them a new home that is truly a home. On his part, Moses who lives with his married elder sister and four children said they live in an uncompleted two-room house. “This house from Maltina is God sent. We pray that your business will grow in leaps and bound’

wrist watches, millions of free drinks and others.

The presentation of prize money via ATM card is, particularly significant because Maltina is reinforcing her support to the Federal Government’s drive toward a cashless society. The brand’s long list of exciting gifts as rewards for consumers include branded Automated Tellers Machine (ATM) cards that will contain the amount winners take home. The cash categories slated for this year’s promotion are N1, 000,000 X 5 cash in (Maltina branded ATM cards), N100, 000 X 15 cash in (Maltina branded ATM cards), N5, 000 X 4,000 cash in (Maltina branded ATM cards) all in compliance with the cashless policy The second category he outlined is the alphabet code combination crown corks, which would win the grand prize of a luxury home. It would consist of the following letters; S – M – I – L- E. “In order to win the grand prize,” according to Nkwoji, “a consumer is expected to collect a combination of crown corks that spell the word S-M-I-L-E. Maltina shall be giving out a total of five houses. Under the letter ‘M’ crown corks, there will be special differentiated alphanumeric codes.

These codes qualify consumers for weekly raffle draws.

The houses will be given out in three weekly raffle draws as follows: First Raffle, two houses; Second Raffle, two houses; Third Raffle, a house.”

The Senior Brand Manager stressed that holders of the raffle draw crown corks can enter the raffle draws by either sending their code, name, sex, age and address (address should include state) to 30380 or going to any of the 1,200 redemption centres to register their names and contact details. “Holders of the S-M-I-LE crown corks will be expected to keep them as the ultimate proof of ownership. The SMS will work with all major telecoms operators.”

The Maltina brand is noted for exploring creative avenues to engage and reward its consumers. One of these creative consumer engagement platforms is the popular and highly rated Maltina Dance All (MDA) TV reality show, a platform for sharing happiness, promoting family values and bonding.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

30

Brandnews

Artrisans top list of winners in Coca-Cola millionaire promo

F

ROM tailors to electricians, artisans, undergraduates and street traders, the CocaCola ‘Open & Win’ Promo has transformed 50 consumers into happy millionaires.

Apart from N50 million, which the brand has given out so far in the daily N1million prize draw, over N200 million in airtime has also been dished out in the promo that has taken the country by storm.

Speaking on the high volume of

entries received to date, Marketing Director, Austin Ufomba said: “We have received an overwhelming number of entries that substantially exceeds our last promo. This is heart-warming because it testifies to the fact that consumers love our products and belief in our brand in the proposition of the Open & Win Promo.”

The number of entries sent in by some of the lucky winners of the N1 million cash prize range from 20 to 200. Augustine Ezani,

a commercial tricycle (Keke Maruwa) operator, who plies his trade in Ikeja, Lagos, said he was motivated to send up to 30 entries when he saw the advert on television. Recalling that his friends laughed at his persistence, he said he is happy that he was not discouraged and has now joined the growing pool of Nigeria’s new millionaires.

Senior Brand Manager, Flavours, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Toyin Nnodi, said the promo is one of

the many ways that Coca-Cola creates value and makes a difference in the lives of its consumers.

“As more winners emerge each day from the promo, it is clear to all that Coca-Cola’s ‘Open & Win’ Promo is making dreams come true and so consumers are encouraged to keep sending in their entries and explore the chance to win recharge cards and become millionaires.’

Designed to appreciate and reward consumers, Coca-Cola’s

‘Open & Win’ Promo campaign began on February 28 and runs until May 10. By then, the promo will have created 70 millionaires at one per day for the 70-day duration. To participate, consumers simply need to buy a bottle of Coke, Fanta, Sprite or Schweppes, look under the crown cork for a unique code and text the code with name and location to 33665.

Promo benefits also include airtime value ranging from N100 to N1,000.

Mouka rewards consumers in new pillow promo

L

•From left: GM/Director, Golden Pasta, Mr Yiannis Katsichtis with Mr ED Jackson, Chief Operating Officer Flour Mills of Nig Plc, during the Golden Pasta & Golden Noodles Customers’ Forum tagged ”Golden Penny Food of Basket” at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Abuja.

Nescafe hot air balloon berths in Ife, Ilorin

H

AVING had successful outings in Abuja, Lagos

and Ibadan, the innovative brand activation campaign train tagged NESCAFE Magic Mug Flight has landed at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ife and University of Ilorin.

During the Ife and Ilorin activation, NESCAFE rewarded talented youths with special talent in comedy, DeeJay and dance with N100, 000 worth of gifts in each of the category.

According to the organisers, more excitement and fun await consumers of the leading coffee brand as top artistes such as Bolaji Sax, Body Language, Alfa Sule, Ceeboy, Teesongz, Dizzy, Femi Obey, Gospo.com, Peteru, MC Shem, House of Lamba, and David Jones David (DJD) have been lined up to entertain the teeming consumers that would be attending the event.

Apart from rewarding the first three winners in the three categories, several gift items would be given out to consumers who visited the Facebook page of Mr Konfydens, the character that heralds the NESCAFE Magic Mug Flight campaign and liked it.

Explaining the combination of Mr Konfydens and the brand activation, the Category Business Manager, Coffee, Mr Tayo

Olatunji stated that since the campaign is new in the market, Mr. Konfydens is introduced to encourage consumers to be adventurous.

He explained that those selected for the air balloon ride were randomly picked from a pool of entries sent via SMS,

adding that each of the lucky winners was also given the opportunity to bring in two of his friends to fly with him on the hot balloon with the pilot.

‘By involving the lucky consumers and their friends, it simply means we are not just talking to the consumers and

giving them a life-time experience, we are also extending the gesture to those close to them, life’s experiences are better shared’, he explained.

The hot balloon which takes five persons at a time, according to him, goes up to heights of about 50 meters.

EADING manufacturer of mattresses, pillows, beddings and other polyurethane products, Mouka Limited has introduced a consumer-centric package tagged Pillow Moments Promo to appreciate and reward customers for their patronage.

The reward, which holds between May 2 and June 30, gives instant reward at the point of purchase to customers on the purchase of Mouka products.

Explaining the modalities of the promo, the Head of Commercial, Mouka Limited, Jude Abonu said customer wins a Mouka pillow instantly on every purchase of the Mouka Legend, Mouka Flora and Mouka Modeo worth N14,000.

Abonu, speaking on the essence of the promo, disclosed that the promo was designed to re-enforce the brand’s promise of adding comfort to lives of numerous loyal customers. He emphasised its uniqueness, saying it provides instant rewards at the point of purchase without any raffle draws.

According to the Product Manager, Mouka Limited, Stephen Uwazota, said the promo is targeted at the end users of its products, adding: “Mouka has achieved various milestones over the years with the active support of its loyal customers and this is one of several ways we have chosen to say thank you.”

Mouka Limited has been involved in some consumer-centric packages over the years, some of which are Winstanta Promo, Sweet Dreams Promo, among others.

•From left: Mr Shaun Bennett, Donna Oduro, Marketing Manager Seven Eagles Spur, Jennifer Spence-Wilson and Seven Eagles Spur Chair, Mr Okey Elelema and his wife at the opening ceremony of the Spur Restaurant at Ikeja City Mall, Alausa, Lagos.

SHOPPING

31

THE NATION

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

Fridge, the modern woman’s helpmate Since its introduction in the 18th century, refrigerators have become part of many homes.

This cooling innovation, which developed from the icebox, has advanced in technology.

There are some things to consider before buying one.

JANICE NKOLI IFEME writes.

T

HE refrigerator is a household device needed in every home. With its cooling effect which decrease the reproduction rate of bacteria, it prevents food spoilage. Women appreciate the value of fridge and make it a vital part of their household items. Freezers enable many families to buy in bulk, resulting in savings. The executive woman finds solace in freezers because of their convenience.

Mrs Elizabeth Akpota, a bank’s executive director said: “It is my dependable partner. I cannot do without it. Can you imagine the hassles of having to make our local soups and stews every day? I cannot even imagine it. Where is the time? I shop for groceries only once in a while. My refrigerator makes this possible because I can store them for a considerable time before heading back to the stores”.

Mr Phillip Idibia, a sales manager in one of the luxury car companies in Victoria Island, Lagos, affirms: “The refrigerator makes things very convenient for me. As a bachelor, I rely greatly on it. It enables me to eat salads, fresh fruits and vegetables without having to own a garden or an orchard. With it, I rest assured that whenever I get home, my stomach is well taken care of. All I need do is to put the necessary things I need in it”.

Refrigerators are usually long or me-

• Continued on page 32

Women get tips on cutlery making Good food, good setting ‘We are safer here’ Page 32

Page 33

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

32

SHOPPING • Continued from Page 31

dium term investment, so adequate care should be taken before buying one. There are several things to note. You need to know the various types available and determine which one best meets your needs.

Clarifying the use of the refrigerator will help you determine the capacity, style or model. The top freezer models have two compartments with separate door and the freezer compartment on top; the bottom freezer models have two or three compartments with separate doors. Here, the freezer is the bottom compartment. The side by side model has a single door housing both the refrigerator and the freezer. Compact refrigerators usually come in side by side models. Some others side by side models have a larger deeper freezer with a smaller shallow refrigerator section by the side. They are sometimes called deep freezers.

The all-refrigerator models come with no freezer. This can be useful in storing drinks in a bar or super market. It often comes with transparent glass doors to allow customers see its contents. The Quatro cooling system consists of four compartments, including fresh select cooling for keeping fruits and vegetables fresher for a longer period. They may also come with a TV display on the front door. There is also the two-door twin cooling side-by-side refrigerator. Allfreezer models are also available. Just like the all-refrigerator models they should be bought if only a refrigerator is already available. You would not want your drinks too cold, would you? These models are very useful for small retailers of frozen food.

Having decided on the use and type, you need to choose where to place it. Make sure there is enough allowance for the free movement of the doors. The most appropriate location to place a family refrigerator is in the kitchen or in a readily accessible point in the house. Personal compact refrigerators could be placed in bedrooms.

You also need to know what capacity you require. According to Online assistance technicians, Nigeria Technology Guide, some factors determine the capacity of the refrigerator that you buy. For instance, if you eat out most of the time, your refrigerator capacity will be smaller than a person who usually cooks at home. Then the size of the family is also a factor. Other factors are your energy budget and the amount you are willing to spend on a refrigerator. A refrigerator will be more expensive as the capacity increases. A large family will need a larger refrigerator capacity than a smaller one.

Power requirement You should ensure that the refrigerator uses the power supply voltage value that is applicable in your country. In the United States, the power supply is 110V-115V. In the United Kingdom, Nigeria and most African countries, it is 220V-250V. Check whether sockets can support it, otherwise,

Fridge, the modern woman’s helpmate

• Side by side refrigerator.

you will need to install a dedicated switch for it.

Refrigerator brands There are lots of fridge manufacturers with good reputation. Some brands are more popular than others in some countries.

Brands such as Haier Thermocool, Samsung, Newclime, Ocean, Samsung and LG are popular in Nigeria.

With reasonable idea of what you need, you can determine the price. The price of a refrigerator increases as the capacity or features. The more you want the more you pay.

Buying from accredited stores It is always advisable to buy from an authorised dealer shop. An accredited dealer deals directly with the manufacturer and will often offer you considerable warranty, which often involves repair or replacement of the refrigerator if it develops any fault during the period of the warranty. The fault must not be as a result of your carelessness.

Warranty is often limited, so clarify what the warranty includes and excludes (terms and conditions).

Authorised dealers also offer excellent after sales services. Some even offer finance

support. You will gain more by buying from an accredited dealer shop. It will help you guarantee the originality of the product you buy.

Some accredited dealer stores are Sims Nigeria Limited with branches in Victoria Island, Ikeja, Abuja, Onitsha, Kano, Port Harcourt, Sip Electronics at Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Park n Shop Supermarket, Cash ‘n’Carry, Fouani Nigeria Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, Somotex Nigeria Limited,Mega Plaza, Kewalram Nigeria Limited, Allied Home Appliances, Apapa, Black King Florina Ltd, Dizengoff W.A. (Nigeria) Ltd and Elpina Plaza.

Two firms have held an exhibition of kitchen wares in Yaba, Lagos. OMOLARA MOFESOLA OMONIYI was there.

Women get tips on cutlery making

T

O help women to be creative, they have been taught how to produce and sell kitchen utensils cutlery and oth-

ers.

At an exhibition in Lagos, the Managing Director of Dobis Enterprises, Mrs Adobi Mojekwu, said the event was aimed at exposing women to different things they could do to empower themselves.

She said: “Ours is a thriving business of 22 years. We are concerned about the rate of unemployment in the country, which has made most people to seek white collar jobs without thinking of how they can build themselves and make a living on their own.

We want to help more women to be more responsible in their homes, especially in their kitchens. Besides, it is all about dining and entertainment.”

Various glass wares were exhibited and put up for sales to interested buyers.

They were the desert wares, wine glasses, juice glasses and water glasses. Some small chops such as samosa, buns and sausage rolls were on display. There were also drinks such as chapman, milk shakes, chocolate drinks and more.

The exhibition was divided into two sections- the glassware section and the cookery section. Outsiders with quality products were allowed to exhibit their products and services. Also on display was An exhibitor, Mrs Uchennan Oluchi Njokwu, said her product, Auslee maxi fresh dish washer, was in tandem with other products on display. “You need this dish washer to clean up your dinner ware,”she said.

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic wines were also showcased with suitable wine glasses for each sold at affordable rates to interested buyers. Some of the wines were Moet and Chan don Champaign, glenfidditch single malt, Scotch whisky, Hennessy V.S.O.P., Josephine gin, Baileys, Absolute country of Sweden vodka, Jack Daniels whisky, Martel, Lauret- Perner. Gorgeously dressed ladies and some men trooped in choice cars to have a glimpse of the show. A visitor, Mrs Kehinde Oguntuase, said: “I see this event as what I have needed over the years. I can also call this a rare opportunity to Nigerians, especially women. Thank God I was able to make this event, as it has educated me more than I expected.”

• Wine on display

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

SHOPPING

Good food, good setting When it comes to enjoying good food, there are certain things to consider. The people to share the food with and the setting top the list. Choosing the right dining set for the home involves understanding what will work in terms of space design and size of the room. OMOWUMI OGUNTUASE writes.

I

F one is tired of sitting around and eating in one’s living area or on the kitchen table, then it may be time to start shopping for a suitable dining set.

Before buying a suitable dining set, there are certain things one should consider; one should think of how to use it: is it for everyday use or occasionally?

One should measure the space because furniture in stores tend to look smaller than when one places them at home. Look at the surrounding decoration; if the adjoining room decorations are of dark wood, you may want to buy the same type of wood for the set, though glass fits in with most decorations. If one is not making use of tablecloth, one should get a table with good finish, especially if one has children or other guests.

A majority of people are attracted to the contemporary dining sets, but one should not forget that the wooden ones which are considered as old ones are more durable. However,

if one does not have enough space, one can stick to the glass ware because most of the wooden ones are large.

Dining sets that are too large will create a feeling of congestion and make the room uncomfortable.

Also, the ones that are too small or have the wrong shapes will give the room an unfinished sense.

There is various dining sets to choose from, depending on your taste. The wooden designs come in oak, pine, cherry wood, pecan and some other woods. Glass and marble designs at the top, with mixtures of wood, chrome or steel for the legs or base. When space is limited, a round table that will sit four to six people is a good option. Drop leaf and tab tables are excellent when there is the need to accommodate larger dining parties.

When shopping for the suitable dining set, endeavour to choose on the shape, design and size that will be pleasant to the eye and make your dining room feel inviting.

• Dinning set.

• Glassware, crockery exhibition.

Saving energy bills

H

OW can you cut your monthly electric bills? Look at your fridge for a minute and see if you can lower your bill a little bit. Does it have enough space around it to maintain good air flow?

Is there good circulation between items inside it? Keep the air circulating.

This makes the temperature cooler and brings down the cost. Open the door as little as possible - keeping the cool air inside.

Do not stand in front of it when it is open, trying to figure out what more to buy.

It might help to move like things together so you will know where things are instead of groping around for items. Some figures place up to 20 per cent of energy costs of operating a refrigerator to the opened door.

Got two fridges? Put the second one in the coolest part of the house. The hotter the air is around your refrigerator, the more energy it takes to keep it cool. Besides, it makes sense to never place your fridge next to your stove.

Shopping Right with

How’s your spending habit?

I

HAVE observed that many people have developed bad spending habits. This is why they end up in desperate financial situations.

In many instances, the culprit is usually impulse spending which usually comes about when a person believes–accurately or not–that he or she needs some object or service or when there is easy access to ready money.

On the other hand, it has to do with one’s attitude to life. The spending excesses of many emanate from false values and discontentment as well as misplaced priorities. The bid to make a false impression has led many to tell lies and live a false life, which put them into a lot of debts.

Talking of false values reminds me of a friend of mine, Yemi. I have lost contact with her JANICE NKOLI IFEME though. We met at the first place I worked after my youth service. At that time, we were still ask for more. Some are already canvassing for trying to find our bearing. Yemi would always 2015, rather than do the work for which they charter a taxi to drive her throughout out the were voted into power. So all those who seek day. In many cases, the taxi driver would wait political office, beware! There is a limit to what for her outside the office for hours. I actually Nigerians can take of the gross irresponsibility thought that the cab belonged to her until I leant and misgovernance that have eaten deep into our that it was on hire. I soon left the place. A year development. later, I came across one of the guys who worked But let’s ignore those greedy and fraudulent there. Of course, I enquired about all the people people and talk about ourselves. The issue here I could remember, including Yemi. He told me is improving one’s spending habits. that she had to leave because her creditors overIf you are trying to curb your spending or are whelmed her. In his own words: “So many peotrying to start spending more responsibly, you ple were coming for the money she owed them. will want to ask yourself the following questions: Unknown to many of us, she had been buying a • Do you often find yourlot of things on credit-clothes, self tempted to spend for shoes, bags; you know, all spending sake? those brand names she used ‘One of the habits nu• Do you often spend on to exhibit. When her creditors merous people fall into things that you do not really started pestering her, she could want or need? not withstand them. We just is the subconscious trap.

• Do you often feel the need stopped seeing her. Do you Basically, they do not to have the latest clothes and know that her regular cab make firm perceptive gadgets? driver said she owed him over • Do you feel that you need N200, 000? I wonder if she choices regarding their to spend money in order to used something on him. How shopping habits; inhave a good time? could someone owe him up to • Are there several areas in that amount and he kept driv- stead, they rely on their ing her?” gut instincts and go by your life where you feel you are spending unnecessarily?

Similarly, a young man, whims, which can rack While there are a few inJohnson believed he had to be stances in life where we canseen to be living big, so he up a serious amount of not avoid spending money, talked big. In order to live up debt in the long run’ there are many situations to his false life, he ran into where we can avoid having debts, buying things he could to spend more than is necessary. This is what not afford. He was so discontented that he felt you could do: that his salary was too little to fetch him anyRecognise your spending habits to improve thing that it ended up becoming useless to him. them Imagine his priority was to impress a girl by One of the problems with incurring debt is that borrowing money to take her on a shopping it can be hard to figure out just how you got spree. Of course, she jilted him, as soon as she there in the first place. Anybody can say that you found out his lowly state. So guys, ladies, if you ended up with debt because you did not watch are in a relationship, better tell each other the your expenses, but pinpointing what you did truth because the very thing which you were trywrong takes a critical eye that sees the trees along ing to hide by telling lies to protect your relationwith the forest. In the case of personal financial ship will break it when the truth finally blows matters, you need to recognise both the specific out. and general causes of debt.

He could not even afford a decent accommoOne of the habits numerous people fall into is dation and had to put up with his old school the subconscious trap. Basically, they do not friend, Stanley, who received less salary than make firm perceptive choices regarding their shophim. Stanley never lived beyond his means and ping habits; instead, they rely on their gut inwas able to live comfortably with his earnings stincts and go by whims, which can rack up a while he worked harder for more. serious amount of debt in the long run.

Isn’t that what we witness in the country toOne of the first steps towards improving your day? Our politicians are just living big at the finances is to recognise your spending habits. Baexpense of the people. Having mismanaged and sically, you do not want to allow your learned squandered our resources, they still want to come behaviour to guide you towards debts and hard to power again? A time is coming and it is altimes. It is better to take control of your money in ready near: when people will get into political a direct and conscientious way that enables you offices and repair the rot that has been taking to spend wisely. place for over ten decades of independence.

Keep your financial behaviour in control and And I tell you; all those people in authority you will learn a lot about your habits and how to who use their position to loot rather than work change them for the better. Making improvements for the good of the nation, do not think you will to the way you live begins with your mind, and go scot free. likewise, your mind should be on your money as If you cannot make good use of what God has your money should be on your mind. given to you, you truly do not have the right to

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

SHOPPING

W

HEN shopping for mixed design home décor, pick a few pieces from different stores instead of decorating an apartment with one.

A space needs to have balance and harmony to look nice; therefore, having a less expensive item next to a more expensive one should be avoided. This is because it could invite undue comparison. For instance, a group of nice African masks can add colour to the home.

What makes your home is the effort you put into making it look special and unique.

Decorating it with accessories such as lamps, area rugs or vases, gives features to it. Simple things such as colour stones in a clear glass jar are eye-catching.

A tall lampshade may look outdated, but it has an elegant figure and, most importantly, it takes up less space while enhancing the look of the apartment. The table lamp is an option of style which comes in various colours. The Tiffany lamps, wrought iron lamps, mica lamps and wood lamps are the very popular ones. They come in very decorative and sophisticated designs, such as paper, silk, metal and beads. They have their own charm.

Glass jars, which are of different sizes with colour pebbles, can sit beautifully on shelves and tables. A designer bookshelf is beautiful for the living room and useful if you have books lying around and no study room. It adds beauty to the living room.

Large vases filled with artificial flowers can give an apartment an instant face-lift.

Making your house a home A good interior décor is not determined by its cost, but how much attention is given to it. Decorating your home with accessories can be time consuming, but it is full of fun.

You have so much to choose from, therefore, decorate it to suit your style. TONIA ‘DIYAN writes.

It could be a clay or brass pot. They both appeal to the eyes. Some flower vases are branded and affordable.

Scented candles are very romantic and can be placed anywhere in the home. They add beauty to the dining table, centre rugs and consoles. They give the feeling of paradise and they are used to welcome a new season with passion.

The decorative mirrors can be used as living room decorative accessory as well as bathroom decorative accessory. In bathrooms, they are hanged up or above, but in the living room, they can be hanged anywhere there is space on the wall, but other decors should be considered. They also make the home or rooms look bigger.

Centre rugs will not only add colour to your home, but will make it much more comfortable and warm.

Christmas when people are found to be more concerned about their home décor, but it ought not to be. But there are people who

are looking for ways to constantly improve the look and feel of their homes.

Since civilisation, mankind has been exhibiting its love for aesthetics through wall paintings and other elements to display their likings for creating a better and colourful environment to live in.

In the past, it was more of a ritual to decorate homes before the festive season or on the eve of any big celebration. But these days, home owners wish to decorate their homes at all times as your home speaks for you and tells who you are. There is nothing like living in a well-decorated home and transforming your house to a home.

Stores such as Delightsome Gifts Concepts, Shoprite and Sixthsense specialise in home décor, where one will find items that have few or no duplicates. Though finding all possible options under one roof might not be convenient, buy one can also develop a unique decor theme for the house.

The use of unique art and architectural

items to furnish the furniture and present them with a stylish and uncluttered look is important. The home decor stores are overflowing with many unique decorating accessories. The trick lies in using these items in an appropriate way to give that lavish look to your home. You can use these items in your way to decorate your house with your unique ideas.

It will get easier to incorporate long loved vintage items into a contemporary style for an apartment to take one back in time and into the future simultaneously. This may be the beautiful paradox that makes modern home decor so popular today.

Designs that are lavish and overdone have no place in today’s modern home décor, so you can decorate any place without spending much.

The great part is that it gives you a chance to show your creativity in a small way and, in turn, it enhances the appearance of the house.

We are safer here, say displaced Yaba railway traders A group of displaced Railway Line traders in Yaba market, Lagos has moved to Awolowo Model market, Mushin, which they claim is better and safer. However, they decry the loss of customers. They narrated their experience to OGECHUKWU EMEDIKE.

M

ARKETS in Lagos State are known by the unique items that can be found there. Yaba market is known mainly for fairly used clothing, shoes and bags. The Railway Line also in Yaba was a popular market for fairly used clothing until the traders were evacuated last year, following a face-off with officers of Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), a sanitisation enforcement arm of the government.

The market was a beehive for shoppers, especially students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), College of Science and Technology and Government Technical College, Akoka.

The clothes, which come in bales, are brought into the country from Cotonou and other places. Many shoppers patronised the market because things are affordable compared to other markets.

Though business at the Railway Line might have been profitable to the traders, it also contributed to the loss of many lives. The people were always on their guard to ascertain when a train was passing.

And whenever that happened, they would swiftly remove their wares from the rail lines and later continue their business after the train passes. Many died in the process.

Efforts to sanitise the market resulted in the displacement of the traders.

The traders have since relocated to different markets in Ketu, Sabo, Lagos Island, Ojuelegba road, The Arena, Green Plaza Shopping Mall, with majority of them at Awolowo market, Mushin Olosha.

A shopper, who identified herself as Mama Ify, from Onitsha to shop for baby wears for sale, said: “This business, which I ventured into two years ago, has grown.’’

Another shopper, who pleaded anonymity, said she is a student of the University of Lagos. ‘’I usually come here to shop for my wears.

With N5,000, I shop to my satisfaction and still have some money left, right from when they were at the Rrailway Line in Yaba,” she said.

Mr Chekwube Kingsley, who trades in male and female jeans trousers, said: “This is where we are. The administration of this

• Anorue

• The traders at the Awolowo model market.

place is far better than the former.

In Yaba, our safety was at a high risk. Due to the moving locomotive train, we always had to adjust our tables for the train to pass; after it had passed, we would spread our goods. Also, the relocation has relived us of the problem of some students fighting us on the ground that we harassed their female counterparts. These problems have become a thing of the past.

This place is very conducive for us as we do our business peacefully without fear of molestation.

Even the area boys here are my customers. Since the incident that brought us here, they have been friendly to us. It is just that many of our customers are yet to know that we are here now”.

Describing the items which he sells, he said: “They are brought from Cotonou, London and Kantagora and have different grades ranging from one to three.

I sort them out with discretion to suit my customers. The Chairman of the Yaba Traders Union, Mr Okey Anorue, fondly called Okey Starch because he knows what

shopping entails does not go abroad to shop but shops at his doorstep, projecting the rich cultural heritage of the country.

He said: ‘’We are grateful to God and to the Lagos State Governor through his Commissioner for the Environment, Mr Tunji Bello, to move us down to this place so that our customers can have access to us. “I have written so much letter pleading as regards the incidence.

He said: “we can not go against the wish of the government. Since we moved in here, there have not been any problem whatsoever.You know people are of the opinion that Mushin is known for harbouring area boys, thereby deterring customers from shopping.But with our presence, they are granted maximum security, conducive environment from the governor.

Comparing where we were and where we are now, I would say that Awolowo market is safer. Because when we were at YabaRailway Line, we had problem of students fighting the traders.

Narrating the events that led to his becoming the chairman, he

said: “There was a time that the hoodlums attacked early in the mornings and late in the evenings, making the locality unbearable for traders, customer and travellers.

• The railway line, now free.

They would hang around and collect their valuables. Also, the problem of the moving train. There was a time that the train killed a woman and her baby. But with my talent I have been able to curb the situation. As a result, the West African Students Associatoion presented me with an award of pace setter.

Many a time there could have been blood sheds during the fight between the students and the traders, which were adequately curbed.‘’

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

35

Brandnews

La Casera team visits Oba of Benin

A

S part of activities for this year’s Miss La Casera, in Benin-City, producer of apple flavor carbonated soft drink, The La Casera Company Limited, has led beauty contestants on a courtesy visit to the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa in Benin City.

The visit came on the heels ahead of this year’s Miss La Casera which held at the prestigious Best Western Homeville Hotel in Benin City.

Speaking on behalf of the management of The La Casera Company, Mr Sunil Pal Singh, Regional Sales Manager, Benin Zone, praised the monarch and his Chiefs for receiving the firm’s delegation.

Singh explained that his team came to seek the royal blessing for the success of the beauty contest.

He said the new Miss La Casera would represent the company in driving most of its corporate philanthropic activities such as donation to orphanages and other community initiatives.

“Oba gha tokpeye! We bring you greetings from our Chairman and management of The La Casera

Company. We are here to express our reverence to your majesty and seek your blessing for our mission here in Benin City. With me are the beauty contestants and among them, one will emerge the winner of the crown for Miss La Casera 2012. She will represent the company as a Brand Ambassador to reach out to the needy in the society and take care of certain community initiatives consistent with the company’s corporate philosophy.”

Sunil presented gifts to the Oba. He said: “In appreciation of your leadership, we have brought gifts for you. You have been there for us and you will continue to be there for us. Please accept these gifts as a token of our appreciation.”

The monarch through one of his Palace Chiefs prayed for the delegation and assigned four of his Palace Chiefs to attend the event.

In an interview, Sunil emphasised that the Miss La Casera would be the sixth edition aimed at commemorating the 10th anniversary of the company. The w i n n e r would get fabulous prizes. “In addition, a substantial budget has

Brandlife redefines technology

B

RAND life, a leading marketing services agency, has added another value to the marketing and advertising industries in Nigeria with the introduction of an innovative web-based application designed to monitor business mainly for the outdoor advertisers called Posterlok.

Posterlok is an innovative of the OOH audit and reporting that allows clients or customers to view their brands with competition on google map and to also generate much and easy report at the click of the mouse.

The exposure was made known at the launch of the Posterlok website, an innovative outdoor monitoring solution for advertisers and marketers.

On the features of the new brand, Mr Julius Agenmonmen, Managing Director, Brandlife Limited, said Posterlok is a company based on innovation as the key to the survival in any market.

He said Posterlok provides transparency and integrity in the audit of OOH, exploring the GLS and GPS technology design by some of the best programmers in Nigeria and off shore, he said it has unique tools which allow

easy view of clients sites along with their competitors. ”Posterlok gurantees such that one would not need to spend hours or days before images are released, it has been optimised for mobile devices and provides portal transparencies to stakeholders,” he said. He also said with the GPS positioning, wide range of reports and analysis can be generated within seconds.

It also gives quicker decision making as all information on any site is available on the click of the mouse.

He added that posterlok is a good planning tool for agencies and advertisers, it gives share of exposure and share of spend at the click of mouse and as well internet and non-internet useable.

On the important features of the posterlok website, he said one can view any devices and generate reports on laptop and personal computer as well as easy internet accessibility to compliance and reports. It also provides robust reporting in which clients no more pile reports but have a paperless reporting.

•Sunil Pal Singh (middle), Regional Sales Manager, Benin Zone, La Casera Company Ltd flanked by Palace Chiefs and Beauty Contestants of Miss La Casera during a courtesy to the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa by a delegation of the firm.

been set aside to adequately equip her in carrying out activities during her reign as Miss La Casera,” he stressed.

He said the delegation had earlier made a stop-over at the Edo Orphanage to make financial and

material donation to the orphanage. “We had been to the Edo Orphanage to give some financial and material support and this is just like a preview of the bigger picture of our corporate philanthropy initiative following the coronation

of Miss La Casera.”

Miss La Casera is a partnership between Silverbird Group and The La Casera Company Limited on the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria Pageant.

Golden Penny rewards customers

G

OLDEN Pasta and Golden Noodles Nigeria Ltd has held this year’s edition of its customer forum.

The event, which ‘has as theme The Food Basket’, was held recently at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Abuja.

It brought together company officials and her various distributors from all over Nigeria.

The distributors, who were in their hundreds, seemed excited as they expressed their joy and enthusiasm at the event. The members of the management staff welcomed them as they trooped into the hall with smiles, hugs and handshakes.

Yiannis Katsichtis, General Manager/Director Golden Pasta,

said the company was willing to further strengthen her partnership with the distributors to achieve the vision of the company, which is providing Nigeria and the West African hub a food basket that meets all the needs of a family from breakfast to dinner including healthy snacks.

In his keynote address, Mr Ed Jackson, Chief Operating Officer, Flour Mills of Nig. Plc (the parent Company), praised the customers for their support for the brands and their business. He expressed gratitude for the loyalty of customers over the years and assured them of more innovative products in the coming years.

Golden Pasta, a division of Flour

Mills of Nigeria Plc is the leading producer of pasta in Nigeria, with various pasta types such as spaghetti and macaroni while Golden Noodles Nigeria Ltd., a subsidiary company produces the fast growing Golden Penny Noodles, which has several variants including chicken, onion, beef and seafood.

Highlights of the forum include the unveiling amid fireworks of three new pasta products, which are Bambini, Bucatini and Piccolini by the Chief Marketing Officer OF Flour Mills Of Nigeria PLC Mr Clive Cottrell. He was assisted by the directors at the event. They were Jackson, Katsichtis, and Paul Gbededo, Executive Director Golden Pasta.

Mortein extends malaria campaign

D

ETERMINED to free Africa from the devastating effect of malaria scourge, Reckitt Benckiser, makers of Mortein, has extended the reach of its malaria prevention campaign beyond the shores of Nigeria to other African nations.

The first leg of this Africa-wide

•From left: Managing Director, BD Consult, Mr Tola Bademosi; Managing Director, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr Deepak Singhal, Public Relations Manager, Mr Tope Ashiwaju and Brand Manager, Mr Nanpreet Singh, during a Press Conference on the 5th Edition of the Indomie Heroes Award at West Town Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

campaign entails a tour of Kenya

by Nigeria’s celebrated singer, Omawumi Megbele, who serves as the campaign spokesperson for the Mortein’s malaria prevention initiative. The campaign is part of activities lined up by Reckitt Benckiser to commemorate this year’s World Malaria Day. In the East African country, Omawumi held enlightenment sessions with pregnant mothers during which she shared knowledge with them on the dangers posed to them, unborn babies and family members by malaria-carrying mosquitoes.

She said the malaria scourge has become a major problem as a result of the increased rate of maternal and infant mortality.

“To this end, every effort must be made not only to consciously work towards preventing it, but to begin a gradual process of eradicating the scourge completely from our society.

“This is the motivation that has propelled Reckitt Benckiser through its Mortein brand to embark on the anti-malaria campaign in Nigeria and Kenya as well as other parts of Africa.”

Omawumi said.

It would be recalled that statistics by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and concerned bodies shows that malaria is one of the leading causes of morbidity and

mortality in Kenya.Malaria reportedly kills an estimated 34,000 children under five in Kenya every year. Seventy-seven per cent of Kenya’s population lives in areas where the disease is prevalent. The disease is also said to be responsible for 30 per cent of out-patient visits (requiring more than eight million out-patient treatments at health facilities each year) and 15 per cent of hospital admissions.

About 3.5 million children are at risk of infection and developing severe malaria.

With pregnant women not spared by the malaria scourge, they face high risks as well.

There are about 1.1 million pregnancies per year in malaria endemic areas.

During pregnancy, malaria can cause miscarriages and anaemia. Each year, about 6,000 pregnant women suffer from malariaassociated anaemia, and 4,000 babies are born with low birth weight as a result of maternal anemia. Economically, it is estimated that 170 million working days in Kenya are lost each year because of malaria illness.

“On a positive and encouraging note, there is a pragmatic solution in sight to the situation on the platform of Mortein’s anti-malaria tour to the people of Kenya”, Omawunmi added.

36

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

Can technology make you happy?

LG unveils Triple-SIM Mobile phone

L

G Electronics, a leading brand in consumer electronics, has taken the lead among known brands to introduce to the Nigerian market a tripleSIM phone called LGA290 also known as LG TriP. The LG TriP is a triple SIM that has a 2.2-inch QCIF display with a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels, along with a 1.3 megapixel camera with flashlight.As part of the specs, it also has a longer battery life of 1500 mAh that lasts for 15 hours and has fairly thin dimensions of 113.5 x 51 x 12.95mm. The LG TriP is already available in the Nigerian market.

Built on the platform of convenience and ecstasy, the LG TriP offers a s p l e n d i d experience as it gives the user the opportunity of three SIMs on the same phone w i t h o u t swapping SIMs or removing battery.This innovation makes the users have the power of 3 that guarantees the feel and experiential knowledge of the good life.

Best described as a truly loaded but simple phone, the LG TriP has sound alerts type that comes with its uniqueness of vibration, MP3 ringtones, MP3/AAC+/WMA player and MP4/H.263 player. Added to this is its memory card slot of micro SD, up to 4 GB. Besides its phonebook entries of up to 1000 storage capacity, it has Bluetooth, v2 with A2DP, EDR and microUSB v2.0. The phone is available

in two colours variation of black and silver.

The LG TriP has the unique effect in the market as the first triple-SIM phone product among major known brands in the mobile phone industry.

Amidst the existing tripleSIM phone manufacturers, the LG TriP has been recognised as a budget friendly phone that would enable its target to acquire with ease.

Delighted by this great feat of setting the standard, the Product and Marketing Manager, LG Mobile, West A f r i c a n Operations, Mr J. S. Yoo, said “LG TriP introduces an entirely new level to Mobile functionality a n d possibilities.

There is no doubt that triple-SIM is the next generation of portable mobile phones usage and LG has reaffirmed its leadership in this regard on the platform of providing solutions to users challenges with the launch of its LG TriP triple-SIM phone.”

With this dimension of triple-SIM phone functionality to the features of phones among known brands in the mobile phone industry, it has, indeed, become a statement of fact that LG Mobile is in the business of making only products that suit the needs and aspirations of its consumers with cuttingedge technology and innovations.

I

T is everywhere. From your car to your door bell; from your wrist watch to your cell phone, technology is alive and kicking in every facet of life. As a friend observed recently, if future societies get to live and look back at the kind of we are living today, they may cite our focus on technologies as being what defined our society. But that is what defines your lives, isn’t it? Your entire life is dependent on technology more than anything else in life or is it?

You obviously rely on technology almost every hour of the day, and for a good reason: technology helps you get things done, easier, safer and faster. Without that stove, you would be unable to cook that meal chicken.

Without an okada, you would be unable to beat the perennial Lagos traffic. Without the alarm clock, you would have slept off, and missed that golden appointment.

Without the remote control, you would have to get up and change the channel or volume every 30 seconds you are bored with a channel or a programme. Without your phone, you cannot make that call, send that text, take that picture or record your favourite ring tone. Let’s admit it. Technology helps.

However, don’t you think you are relying so much on it that you may be thinking, correctly or incorrectly, that life without technology is horrible? Are you relying on technology too much? Let’s find out: If your phone dies, you would not have a way of contacting any friend nor can you tell who still keeps in touch with you. If you experience internet connection downtime, several SMEs would not have source of income or business, you would not know what to do for at least few hours; you would feel helpless.

If your TV malfunctions, you would be sad and would have to visit a neighbour to watch your favourite soap or football match. If your car breaks down, and your phone packs up, you would be unhappy, and you would not be to reach your mechanic. If your laptop fails to come up, your entire life would literally come down.

Without your vacuum cleaner, you would be unable to clean your carpet or cushion.

Without a watch, you would not know what time is it or what to do daily at what times.

Without biometric, the London Olympic would not hold! According to reports, UK has launched international operation to gather information on Olympic participants and coaches, as over 10,000 Olympic athletes and coaches have had their fingerprints and face-scans taken by UK officials around the world in the biggest operation of its type to prevent the London Games being targeted by illegal immigrants or terrorists.

UK authority believes that besides the vast numbers of genuine “Games family members (GFMs)” who are among the estimated 10,500 athletes, training teams, accredited

Sonnex partners Kasapreko on Alomo Bitters

A

S part of its contribution towards promoting transnational business, especially between Nigeria and Ghana, Sonnex Packaging Nigeria Ltd. has signed a business agreement with Kasapreko Company Ltd., Ghana, for $3million for an initial one-year period.

The deal covers the manufacture of 60 million PET pre-forms in the short run and potentially printing of packaging materials for Kasapreko by Sonnex, an affiliate of Mohinani Group Nigeria.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Managing Director of the Mohinani Group, owners of Somotex Nigeria Ltd. and Sonnex Packaging Nigeria Ltd., Anil R. Mohinani, explained that Sonnex is a leader in industrial packaging, particularly the provision of PET preform and other packaging channels with N4.8billion yearly turnover. The company services multinationals which include CocaCola, Unilever, Nestle and Promasidor among others.

According to the Managing Director, the Kasapreko team is in good hands and took

the right decision by partnering with a fellow ECOWAS-state company rather than importing from outside the region.

The Kasapreko team, led by its Director, Gideon Osei-Amoako, revealed that his company was founded in 1989 in Nungua, a suburb of Accra. It is a leading producer of affordable, good-quality alcoholic beverages and is a market-leader in the alcoholic drinks segment across West Africa. “Kasapreko is one of the biggest indigenous companies in Ghana and has won several awards including the Best Spirit producer with its popular Alomo Bitters”. Its other products include ‘Kasapreko Dry Gin’, ‘Kasapreko Brandy’ and ‘Kasapreko Lime Cordia’ are doing very well in Nigeria.

In the words of Mr Kojo Nunoo (GM Operations, Kasapreko, Ghana), the company recently opened its Nigerian office and is pleased to consummate the business relationship with Sonnex which will provide state-of the-art packaging for its products. This is one of the ways of giving back to the Nigerian market (an economy from which it derives so much in terms of sales) and “we hope to continue to

invest in the country”, he says. Ultimately, Kasapreko intends to have a production facility in Nigeria.

According to Mr Nunoo, the company has invested over $30million to acquire new machines to improve on the packaging of its products. “We believe Sonnex will do a good job for us”, he added.

The ceremony, which took place at the Conference Room, Somotex Nigeria Ltd., is believed to be a partnership that will contribute its fair share to Nigeria’s aggressive Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) drive.

Other key officials, who witnessed the event, include Hon. Jimoh Ajao, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing; Mr Ibrahim Tella, Administrative Officer, ECOWAS Commission; Mr Olukoye OluIbukun, Lagos Liaison Officer, ECOWAS Commission; Mr Ojeme, Head, Library & Documentation, ECOWAS Commission; Mr Andrews Akolaa, GM, Nigeria/ International Business, Kasapreko Company Ltd.; Mr Kennedy Ekkeh, Business Development Manager, Kasapreko, Nigeria.

media and officials, would-be terrorists or illegal immigrants could use the influx of people at Heathrow days before the Games start on July 27 to get into Britain.

To prevent any act of terrorism, UK has built a temporary terminal at Heathrow to take the strain of the 20,000 accredited people as well as millions of ticketholders and visitors.

Government has also step up the national terror threat during the 16-day Games, meaning that an attempted attack is highly likely.

UK Border Agency staff in visa offices in Nigeria and other countries has begun the painstaking task of taking biometric details of around 10,000 individuals.

In addition to this, over the next few weeks UK would collect data, profile and facial image scan and 10 finger scans of all athletes and kept in a single digital record. Athletes from some competing nations have biometric information in their passports, and so do not need to hand their data over. But the Home Office believes there are 10,000 athletes and other team members who need to have details taken such as athletes from Nigeria.

In case you are wondering why the UK government would go this length because of some games, the extra security is needed because each GFMs will have an accredited pass to go in and out of the Olympic Village and venues where there are no tough security checks.

However, athletes will not be forced to give scans in their own countries, but if as an athlete you decline you would have to provide the biometrics on arrival in the UK. The security crackdown applies to all foreign nationals including Nigeria regardless of whether you are entitled to a visa waiver.

While this may speed up security lines in the UK at the airport and upon entering the Olympic Village, it does nothing to allay the most glaring privacy issues.

Now, let’s raise some pertinent questions: What is going to happen to the biometric data after the Olympic Games? Who is going to have access to the data before, during, and after the games? How long is the data going to be kept? The biometric data collected in Nigeria will it be transmitted? What security measures are in place to ensure a secure transmission? If the biometric information is going to be kept, what countries and corporations will, ultimately, have access to it?

There are simply too many questions that have been left unanswered for anyone to know or even begin to comprehend how their biometric information is going to be used or accessed. Hey, are you going to the Games? If yes, you would have to submit to the biometric test. Or you may forgo this procedure altogether. If you do not see your family member for a couple of weeks, would you die?

Perhaps no; perhaps yes, perhaps, as an athlete, you may have to consider if competing in the Olympic Games is worth many unknown people having access to your personal information, particularly when no one is sure how long it’s going to be held for or where it’s going to end up. Being paranoid would not prevent terrorism; it would just make the athletes a bit uncomfortable, and the GFMs suspicious of every face at the Games.

If you do not agree with this argument, check this. This is the first time Olympic host nation had undertaken such a widespread biometrics operation. Costing about £24billion, pray the operation and the Games yield good returns on investment, because Wenlock (the Olympic mascot) knows this is the biggest and most expensive security operation in British history, which is packaged as tourist commodity.

While these strict measures may protect athletes within the Olympic Village, such would not prevent any type of attack outside the village. If terrorists would make a splash, they will cause terror where there are large gathering. It is unlikely that there would be a small-scale, targeted attack, such as the one in Munich in 1972.

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, , e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

37

SOCIETY Wife of Bauchi State governor, Mrs Abiodun Yuguda, was honoured as the ‘outstanding first lady’ from the Northeast at the City People awards in Lagos. Others were also honoured at the event.

KUNLE AKINRINADE was there.

•Mrs Yuguda receiving an award from Miss FCT Hauwa Alabra (right). With them is Aare Ayanlakin (left)

•Olugbo of Ugboland Oba Enitolorunda Akinruntan and his Olori. With them is Oodua People’s Congress Leader Otunba Gani Adams

•Chief Segun Osoba (right) and City People Publisher Seye Kehinde

•Dr Muiz Banire

•Senator Joy Emodi

For the disabled, she gives her best

T

HE expansive auditorium of the marquee at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos venue of the event, was decorated in the colours of City People.

Guests consisting of top traditional rulers, technocrats, politicians, showbiz personalities and others were among the early arrivals treated to a red carpet reception. A horde of television reporters and photographers besieged guests for interviews and photographs while waiting for the magazine’s annual awards ceremony to start.

Officials of Kwara, Bauchi and Oyo states sat at tastefully decorated tables spread across the auditorium. The ceremony was anchored by the delectable estranged beau of hip hop artiste Abolore Akande aka 9ice and Tony Payne. There were musical performances by rising hip hop artistes Brymo and Capital Femi.

Among the awardees, wife of Bauchi State governor, Mrs Abiodun Yuguda stood out. She was honoured for her uncommon kindness toward the

physically-challenged. In her entourage were top officials of Bauchi State and some of her kinsmen from the Southwest including Aare Ayandotun Ayanlakin, the Royal Ambassador to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi 111.

In her citation, veteran broadcaster Bisi Olatilo, reeled out Mrs Yuguda’s achievements and how she had given succour to the infirm and people living with disabilities through her humanitarian organisation - Challenge Your Disability Initiative and the establishment of a special school for the disabled.

Receiving the awards Mrs Yuguda urged Nigerians not to treat the disabled in the society as outcasts.

She said: “We should always treat people with disabilities with respect. They are also created by God like all of us. They need our love and care. We should be ashamed that our fellow human beings are still allowed to beg in the rain and in the sun.

We should please support them.”

BIRTHDAY

•Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (right) and Prince Rotimi Agunsoye at Agunsoye’s 50th birthday

“I would say I have always been interested in humanitarian services since I was young. But I decided to establish a non-governmental organisation (NGO) when my husband became the governor because I felt it is an opportunity for me to touch more lives. I, therefore, decided to focus more on youths, fighting drug abuse among our youths, and then fighting for the right of people with disabilities.

I have been able to rehabilitate more than 200 youths that are into drugs in the past years. I have also empowered a lot of them and have been able to train people with disabilities in about 17 different skills. I have been able to build a hospital for the mentally challenged in the Dongo area of Bauchi State. Before now, they used to stay outside with a traditional healer who attends to them. I also have a primary school for the disabled and the orphans. I have been able to send a bill to the House of Assembly on the rights of people with disabilities and now the bill has been passed into law. So, in Bauchi State, people with disabilities have all their rights intact. They are part of

government and they have their own agency where they are being taken care of. The chairman of the agency is a blind man. In Bauchi State, people with disabilities are given special attention. I think I have achieved my dream because I have been able to touch the lives of several people in different areas and I have been able to make people with disabilities feel loved. Now, they have a sense of belonging.”

Aare Ayanlakin praised Mrs Yuguda for touching the lives of people through charity programmes in Bauchi, and for her sterling leadership qualities, which have earned her praises and honour in the past.

“I am really proud to associate with her for doing the Yoruba race proud in a northern state. She epitomises service and she has demonstrated that we all owe humanity a duty to help the helpless in the society and not to deride them because of their weakness.

And this is the more reason why she was recently honoured as Gimbiya Liman Katagun (princess) and today, I am not surprised that she is again being honoured for her outstanding service to humanity,” Ayanlakin said.

SEMINAR

•Representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Maj-Gen Shehu Abdul-Kadir (left) presenting a gift to the guest speaker, Prof Femi Odekunle, at a seminar on Civil-Military Relations in Jos.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

38

SOCIETY Love, they say, knows no boundary. This altruism played out when Demola Hammed, a Muslim, got married to Tayo Ogunremi, a Christian, in Lagos. OGECHUKWU EMEDIKE. reports.

‘Be each other’s friend’ E

VEN the downpour did not deter those who came to share in the joy of their union. The day began with the performance of the Yoruba marriage rites.

The event was held in the open space at the Surulere Local Government Council of Lagos State.

Items brought by the Bolanle Hammed family to seek the hand of Tayo Ogunremi in marriage for their son, Demola, included tubers of yam, boxes of wrappers, baskets of fruits, and a goat.

The groom and members of his family danced to the beat of the talking drums by local traditional drummers. A mini-tent housed the couple for the day.

The open space was decorated in blue and orange.

Islamic League of Nigeria National Missioner Alhaji Raji Sulaiman said the opening prayer to kick-off the event.

Prostrating before his bride’s family, Kwara State born Demola sought Tayo’s hand in marriage.

Accompanying the ‘lover boy’, clad in a blue agbada and orange cap to match, were his friends.

The bride entered the arena, wearing a

uniform dress with her beau. It was matched with an orange gele and ipele.

She knelt before her parents for blessing.

She shed tears of joy; kissed her parents and posed for shots with them.

The groom’s father unveiled the bride, who danced to where her husband was waiting for her to wear him his cap, signifying the consummation of the union.

The couple danced back to where their parents were seated. As he lifted his bride and presented her to his parents, guests erupted in joy.

Chief Josi Awoshadare, who chaired the event, advised the couple to trust each other and not allow a third party into their home.

“Make the Almighty the ruler of your home and I can assure you, your marriage will be one worthy of emulation.

They proceeded to cut the blue basket-like cake, embellished with different colourful fruits.

The couple, who met in school, said they were no longer new to each other.

Their parents, who have over the years enjoyed a cordial relationship, expressed confidence that the union would endure

•The couple, Demola and Tayo

•Groom’s parents: Alhaji Hammed and his wife, Tosin

•Bride’s parent: Mr Olatunji Oladipo and his wife Mojioye

PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

SILVERBIRD MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

• Gen Muhamadu Buhari and Gen Yakubu Gowon, at the event

•From left: Akwa Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio; Chief Segun Osoba; his wife Derin and Ben Murray Bruce

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

39

SOCIETY Indigenes of Gbongan gather every year to celebrate Olufi Day. This year’s edition of the event took place last Saturday. SEYI ODEWALE reports.

Y

EARLY, indigenes of Gbongan in Osun State gather to celebrate Olufi Day. The day usually provides ample opportunity for them to talk about moving the town forward.

It is also an occasion for honouring those who have contributed to the town’s development.

The well-dressed guests and honourees were ushered into the palace arena, venue of the event, by traditional drummers and praise singers.

Traditional rulers from nearby towns also came to celebrate with the Olufi of Gbongan, Oba Adetoyese Oyeniyi.

By 10am, the arena on which sat a giant canopy with other smaller ones, was abuzz with activities amid melodious tunes from stand by band and other itinerant dancers and entertainers. The event slated for 11am, however, did not start until about noon with the hoisting of the National Flag, recitation of the National Anthem and the Osun and Gbongan anthems.

The opening prayers were said by the Chief Imam of Gbongan, Alhaji Oloyede.

The chairman of the occasion and Asiwaju of Gbongan land, Justice Bolarinwa Babalakin (rtd), while declaring the day open, requested guests to sing along with him. His song, rendered in Yoruba said: “Omo Gbongan eku ewu ooo, ewu ina kii pawodi, Awodi oku ewu.” Simply put: “Congratulations! Gbongan sons and daughters, the threat of an inferno does not kill a hawk.

Congratulations, Hawk.”

Justice Babalakin, who spoke in Yoruba, urged everyone to stand up and observe a minute silence in honour of the late Dr Bayo AdisaBalogun, who chaired last year’s annual day Planning Committee.

Words laced with proverbs and witticisms dominated Justice Babalakin’s extempore speech.

Witty sayings such as: “Oja kota, koto si eni t’o nta posi, Oro ko dun lenu kuku ti oyinbo ku mo lowo, oyinbo kii jeun lode …” Meaning “A coffin maker is not supposed to complain of poor patronage, a cook whose master (a white man) is dead has no excuse; because a white man in those days, would not eat outside.”

These witty sayings, according to Justice Babalakin, are meant to spur all indigenes to always gather annually for their day. “There are many good things to look forward to at Gbongan and among the community, namely the assembly of all branches of Gbongan Progressive Union all over Nigeria; the religious harmony in the community and the practice of politics without bitterness among the people, to mention but a few. The speech of our admirable Kabiyesi, which is always educative and which will also reveal to you general survey of the period, will come up shortly,” he assured.

He thanked the traditional rulers and dignitaries for honouring the event with their presence. “Your presence assured us that you are determined to help us in our town hall project; may your affairs continue to prosper,” he said.

He particularly thanked the chief launcher, Dr Biodun Layonu (SAN), who got to the venue about an hour before the event began.

Switching to Yoruba language to encourage everyone to support the fundraising, Justice Babalakin said: “Eni to ba yo, kii yan; eni ebi npa kii gun fe. Eniti yoo le tiro, yoo be nu je o. Tiro la fe le yio; Olorun yoo ran wa lowo o.” Simply put: “Whoever is full does not yawn, whoever is hungry does not belch. Whoever would apply eye lashes on her face must be ready to bear the accom-

Mission to make their town great

•Mr Oyebanji

•Justice Babalakin

•From left: Prof Makanju; Bashorun Momodu and Mr Amusan

•Evangelist Arabambi (left) and Chief Adetunji

•Dr Layonu (SAN)

•Prof Williams (left) and Mr Alagbada

panying pains. One of such pains is the fundraising, God will help us.”

Dignitaries in attendance included: Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr Jayeoba Adekunle Alagbada; Hon Yemi Taiwo; Executive Secretary, Ayedade Local Government Area, Evangelist Nathaniel Arabambi; Pa Okunola Olanrewaju Kolawole; Chairman, Mobil Oil, Mr Tunji Oyebanji; Prof Adebayo Williams, renowned essayist; Prof Tunde Makanju; Prof Dele Ajayi; David Adedeji; Omotayo Babalakin, and Basorun Dele Momodu, Ovation

•Oba Oyeniyi and his Olori Abimbola

publisher whose mother, was from the town.

The Chairman, Association of Gbongan Progressive Elements and the Baba Kekere Olufi of Gbongan, Chief Adewuyi Adetunji, praised the organising committee for doing a wonderful job. He also commended those honoured and urged them to continue to support the town as before.

Special merit awards were given to 10 distinguished sons of the town for their immense contribution in developing it. Three among them were late and were conferred with posthumous awards. They are Dr

Olasupo Toyosi; Chief Olukeyede Akinbami and Chief Modupe Akintola.

The remaining seven awardees included: Dr Layonu; Omotayo Babalakin, another son of Justice Babalakin; Pa Okunola Kolawole; Pa Gabriel Adegoke Ajayi; Elder David Olalekan Adedeji and the popular Yoruba actor and comedian, Bolaji Amusan, a.k.a Mr Latin.

There were other side attractions such as paying of homage to the Olufi by chiefs, baales; trade unions; professional groups and various branches of Gbongan Progressive Union (GPU). There were also raf-

•Prof Ajayi

PHOTOS: SEYI ODEWALE

fle draws for various prizes on display. The star prize was a tricycle, otherwise known as Keke Marwa; a motorcycle; television sets; refrigerator; and a host of others gifts.

An undisclosed amount was realised at the fundraiser, with promises and pledges made to help the town and its developmental projects.

Other dignitaries at the event were: Damola Aderemi; Mrs Oluwatoyin Ogungbesan; Mrs Folashade Awe; Mrs Bola Shobowale; Mrs Folashade Laniyan; Mrs Mojisola Adetunji and two Chinese guests, Mr Zhenjiasy Mu and Ms Kayna Zhao.

40

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

SOCIETY The remains of the late Madam Animota Olawale-Cole, mother of the President/ Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Management, Chief Michael Olawale-Cole, have been interred in Lagos. The event attracted dignitaries. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

Good memories of a sweet mother H

OW do you remember a sweet mother? Through a decent burial of course. This was exactly what the late Madam Animota Abeje Olawale-Cole, mother of Chief Michael Olawale-Cole, President, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), got from her famous son. Until her death at 86, she was described as a kindhearted and generous woman.

It is not a surprise that during her funeral last April 27, a large crowd gathered to honour her. They did not stop there.

On the eighth day, when Fidau prayers were held at her family house in Onigbongbo, Maryland, Lagos, many people also came to attend the event.

By noon, the party train moved to the Heavens Events Centre, Ikeja. Guests were decked in purple clothes. Others wore the Ankara uniform specially made for the burial.

Dr Olawale-Cole was all over the hall, greeting guests.

Abiola Olawale-Cole, 33-year-old grandson, of the deceased said she taught him and his siblings humility, kindness and generosity. “She had a business where she sold some provisions but which she gave out free. She’s still a very big part of my life. I spoke to her a day before she died. But instead of the usual long hours talk, she ended the call because she said she was very tired.

“Even when I was young, she would beg me not to go out for security reasons and so I wouldn’t stay indoors in order not to upset

her. Then, I was young and wanted to have fun. Now I know what she meant.

“She also saved me from a lot of floggings from my father whenever I was caught playing football on the street.

“All memories of her are good. No bad experiences and she taught me things of life, but not with a hard hand like my parents.”

Chief Olawale-Cole, said of his mom: “Her Isolo community was thrown into mourning the day she died because they had missed a mother who always looked after them. She provided the community with food, and she had a way of giving people gifts daily . All the items she sold, she gave out: bread, fish, sardine, and corned beef. That was a mother I had, one who was passionate about being good. She was peaceful and never had issues with my wife and children. She even begged me to help some who had medical problems and others whom I helped to secure jobs.

“I will miss her prayers, love and the good she did in the community where she lived.

She was always asking me to help people with money and jobs.”

He encouraged the younger ones to emulate some of her good virtues. “They should love their neighbours as themselves.

She gave at the expense of having nothing.

They too must be selfless and learn to care for those in their community and not live for themselves alone.”

Princess Folake Dada was on the band stand to dish out scintillating juju music. To spice the event was a rendition of Mama Animota’s eulogy in Yoruba.

•From right: Chief Olawale-Cole; Osolo of Isolo Oba Kabiru Agbabiaka and deceased’s daughter-in-law Adebola

•From left: Granddaughter of the deceased Dr Abisola Adebiyi; her husband Mr Tokunbo Adebiyi; Mr Abiola grandson of the deceased and his friend and Miss Oyindamola Ekundayo

A book Nigeria… A Future in Ruins? written by Dr Jimanze Ego-Alowes was presented to the public at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA),Victoria Island, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

That Nigeria may be one S

OME wore suits, others in shirts and trousers, ties and shoes. They all looked neat.

It was at the launch of a book: Nigeria… A Future in Ruins? The book x-ray's the political, economic and cultural values of Nigeria.

It has the pictures of the former Western Region Premier Chief Obafemi Awolowo, his Northern Region counterpart Ahmadu Bello, first President of Nigeria Dr Nnamdi Azikwe and President Goodluck Jonathan.

This, according to the author, symbolises the Nigeria of yesteryears and today in terms of justice, good governance and equity.

The serenity of the environment made everyone pay rapt attention to the programme.

The book launch was chaired by Former Chief of General Staff Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe.

Publicity Secretary of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Lagos State chapter Mr Joe Igbokwe reviewed the book.

Igbokwe said the book takes a look at the glittering state of Nigeria of the yester years and compares it with today's government.

The book, he said, is a comprehensive analysis of past happenings in the country.

It compares the state of the nation then and now. The book, according to Igbokwe, is a compendium of information that emphasises that Nigerian leaders today and their government are full of injustice and corruption.

However, he said there is still hope for Nigeria.

“It is not yet midnight for Nigeria; there is still hope, but only if the intellectual scholars rise,” he said.

Commenting further on the book, Igbokwe said: “It is a collection of articles by the author. It is divided into three: Politics, Devel-

•Rev Adebiyi presenting the book

•From left: Dr Ego-Alowes; Chief Ikpe and Mr Joe Igbokwe

opment and Economy and Culture. The book is a conglomeration of information the author analyses with ease and simplicity.”

With the current happenings in Nigeria, the ACN spokesman said leaders need to generate ideas and not just go to office without ideas on how to rule the country.

He urged them to tap from the wisdom of past leaders, stating that lack of visionary leaders was one of the problems facing the country today.

"At high level of office, ideas are better than money, most of our leaders lack ideas, if you aspire to be a leader in future, prepare to have ideas,” he said.

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, was represented on the occasion by Rev Adetunji Adebiyi, who presided over the presentation of the book.

He said the book is a must-read for all and not for decoration in the library.

“It is a book not just to keep in your library but a book you need to read. The glories of

yesteryears as discuss in the book and known to all can be revive.

"We can bring back the power of yesterday in our days, if we don't want our country in ruins. Let our leaders fashion a new course for the country," he said.

Other guests on the occasion included Mr Odia Ofeimun; Managing Director, The Sun newspaper, Mr Tony Onyema and others.

The author, Dr Jimanze Ego-Alowes, said the book was written with the mindset of making the intellectuals see themselves as logic leaders and be independent of their own.

"The central theme of this book is to establish the intellectual as an independent power source. The intellectuals should not serve politicians, the businessmen. They should not serve the religious leaders, they should be in their own realm as a contender of a system.

The intellectual leader is a leader leading by logic," he said.

•Mr Ofeimun

PHOTOS: DAYO ADEWUNMI

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

43

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 for 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

L

•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

A

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, Atinmo 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. These is caused by increasing demands for corn and soybeans.

Production costs have climbed in every segment of animal agriculture. The main driver is feeds, 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 clivestock 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 yearly 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.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

45

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

46

COMMENTARY

T

HE heart bleeds in a man who is not clad in the armour of life. His destination will be lost. His rear will be loose. His mission will be missing. His vision will be dim. His blood will congeal. He will live like an orphan and die like a pauper. That is however not much of a misfortune. The real misfortune occurs when his corpse cannot find a place for burial. You may call that the climax of poverty.Strange things are never rare in the geographical area of the world called the West. When there is no problem the Westerners take delight in creating one.

To them, a moment without problem is a moment in boredom. Who can ever imagine that somebody, somewhere, can issue a decree prohibiting death for human beings? This may sound funny and unbelievable but it is very true. Trust the Westerners; they can use anything including oddity to make history.Sometime in March 2008, a Mayor of a French village issued a decree banning the residents of the village from dying on the ground that there was no burial plot for any new corpse. In a decree that warned of severe punishment for offenders, the Mayor of Sarpourrenx, Gerard Lalanne, stated thus:”It is forbidden (henceforth) for any person not having a plot in the cemetery to die in the South-western village of Sarpourenx.

Whoever dies without a burial plot in the cemetery will face severe punishment.”

Commenting on the decree later, Lalanne said “it may sound like a laughing matter to some but surely not to me.” He meant every letter of the decree.If anything was funny about that decree it was the age of the issuer. Mayor Lalanne celebrated his 70th birthday just a couple of days before he issued the decree. And at the time he issued the decree, he was seeking a seventh term of seven years as a Mayor in an election that was to come up later in the month.That is one of many ways in which the Westerners deceptively try to play God. If Mayor Lalanne had considered himself a mere mortal who believed that death was beyond human control would he have issued that odd decree? At 70, should any rational human being think that caging death is possible just by stroke of the pen? Can anybody imagine what would happen if Lalanne, the issuer of the strange decree dropped dead shortly after issuing that decree? Who could have executed the punishment he prescribed?

What type of punishment could be prescribed for the dead in such a circumstance?

And how could such punishment be meted out to him? When asked by Journalist what motivated him to issue the decree, he said he was inspired by the Mayor of another French village (Cugnaux) who had also outlawed death the previous year (2007) as people’s protest against a legislation banning expansion of the cemetery in the village.If Lalanne’s reason of lack of space in the cemetery was a problem, should banning death be the solution?

That is the extent of the thought and reasoning of unbelievers.

They see themselves as all-knowing.In Islam, to clad in the armour of life is to hold fast to the rope of Allah. No man can climb the mountain of life without holding fast to the rope of Allah. Whoever attempts it will automatically become an orphan. And an orphan in this sense is not necessarily a person who lost his parents to death. The real orphan according to an Arab poet is a person who is bereft of genuine knowledge and discipline. That is an ignorant person. Death like life is a phenomenon which no one can controvert.

Although the one is visible while the other is not, both life and death are self-evident even to the blind and the deaf. The Qur’an is clear on this when it says in chapter 57

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

Muslim cemetery

• A cemetery verse 39 that “Every soul shall taste of death”. Also in Chapter 62:8 it says: “Say the death from which you all shrink is sure to overtake you. Then you shall be sent back to Him who knows the visible and the invisible, and He will declare to you all that you have done” It is possible for human beings to prevent the birth of a new baby by committing abortion. It is possible to stop a child from growing into adulthood by committing murder. What is not possible is to prevent a person from dying whose time is up for exit from this world.

Death would come into human life through any possible window. It is possible to prevent a person from committing suicide if momentarily. But it is not possible to prevent death by other means.

However, if the Westerners can issue decree to outlaw death for fellow human beings, one can imagine the extent of their faith and their reasoning.In Islam, death is as important as birth. Both call for communal responsibility. A Muslim child is named after seven days of coming into the world and the naming is done by the Muslim community. A deceased Muslim is buried a few hours after his exit from life and the burial is done by the Muslim community. These and other tenets show Islam as a communal religion. Preparation is made for the arrival of a new child into the world because pregnancy must have foretold his coming. Provisions are made for the upbringing of such a child to ensure his survival because the community believes that he has a role to play in life.

Ironically, however, no physical prepara-

‘The irony of life is that while people prepare for the coming of new babies, they are seemingly indifferent to the exit of their fellow human beings from life.

Most Nigerian Muslims are particularly guilty of this. Not only do they attach little importance to the provision of cemetery they also do not take care of the few available cemeteries around’ tion is made for death because nothing shows the time of its coming. Old age and sickness are no foreboding for death. The young may die while the old lives. The healthy may die while the sick lives. There is no crystal ball through which one can see whose turn is next on the queue of death. But emergency provisions are made for taking care of the corpse of the deceased especially a Muslim as soon as he becomes lifeless. And there are many ways of doing that.

Within just a few hours of the death of a Muslim, not only is a shroud prepared for wrapping him up, a bier is also made ready in accordance with Islamic prescription. A ritual bath called ‘Ghuslul Janazah’ is performed by the closest Muslims to the deceased and not by rented undertakers. A funeral prayer called ‘Salatul Janazah’ is observed by the Muslim community led by the Imam of the deceased or any other learned Muslim appointed by the deceased in his will or one appointed by his family or his jama’at (congregation). The corpse of a Muslim is neither to be kept in a morgue nor allowed to decompose before burial except for a very cogent and inevitable reason. Islam discourages crying and wailing as reaction to the sudden death of a Muslim.

Doing so is evidence faithlessness. Also, decoration of graveyards or building of houses on graveyards as landmarks for immemorial are not encouraged. In Islam, cemetery is strongly recommended for the internment of the deceased. This is because cemetery is to the dead what cit-

ies and towns are to the living.

Just as no newly born baby can ever be taken to the cemetery for upbringing so can no corpse of a Muslim be buried in a living residence. Grave is the residence of the deceased and if living accommodations cannot be built in the graveyard it will be unreasonable if not absurd to bury corpses in living houses.

In Nigeria, there are cities and towns where graveyards have taken over the houses in which people live. The implication of this is that people are limiting their space of living as well as depriving the future generations of their right to space.

With time, people may be forced to relocate from their abodes or to rebury their departed ones if they still find the settlement in question useful.Muslims, especially in some parts of Nigeria do not believe in earmarking space for cemetery.

Such Muslims believe so much in the primordial pagan tradition that they see burying their dead ones in the cemetery as a taboo. This is in gross contravention of Islamic position which forbids the mingling of the living with the dead. Whereas Muslims, especially in Nigerian cities, towns and even villages, earmark a place for ‘Id (festival) prayers they never see any need for creating space as cemetery for the dead. What those Muslims do not know is that cemetery in a Muslim community is more important than prayer ground where Muslims observe festival prayers. Festival prayer grounds do not have to be permanent because festival prayers are supererogatory and observed only randomly. And this can be done inside a Mosque or any other available space that is clean and pure for Salat.

Well known Muslim cities like Makkah and Madinah have no special grounds for ‘Id prayers apart from the main Mosques of both cities called Haram. On the other hand, they have several cemeteries where their departed ones are buried. Besides the place earmarked for burying the dead, no other place should be turned into a cemetery. Those who bury their dead inside their living houses or around such houses live in the cemetery. And Islam frowns at this because any Salat observed in such houses is a reprobate because it is forbidden to observe Salat in cemeteries. Unfortunately, those who ignorantly live with the dead inside their houses and observe Salat inside such houses are only engaged in spiritual futility albeit ignorantly. The irony of life is that while people prepare for the coming of new babies, they are seemingly indifferent to the exit of their fellow human beings from life. Most Nigerian Muslims are particularly guilty of this. Not only do they attach little importance to the provision of cemetery they also do not take care of the few available cemeteries around. While they claim to offer prayers in remembrance of such dead relatives, they neglect the environments in which those relatives are buried.

The fact that the dead cannot take care of their environments by themselves has put the responsibility of caring for cemeteries on the living. As Muslims, we all want our deceased parents, relatives, teachers and friends to be admitted into paradise and we all pray for that as recommended in Islam. But hardly do we think that those for whom we offer prayers deserve decent environments.

Muslim organizations, groups and individuals should note that adequate care for the environments of the dead is not only as rewarding as doing so spiritually it is also a duty. Let those who sincerely expect their turn in death take care of their deceased ones that they may be taken care of after their demise.

NEWS

150 abandoned babies rescued in Cross River

O

NE hundred and fifty abandoned babies have rescued in various parts of Cross River State.

The governor’s wife, Mrs Obioma Imoke, made this known after receiving insignia of awards given to her between 2010 and 2012 for her service to humanity and an award for the Tourism Personality of 2011.

She said one life of a dead abandoned baby is one life too many.

Mrs Imoke said it was for this reason that she established the Mother Against

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

Child Abandonment (MACA) to take care of abandoned babies and teenage girls, who have been kicked out of their homes.

She said: “MACA takes in vulnerable impregnated teenage girls who are kicked out of their homes, so they have the babies and dump them.

“We bring them in and counsel them.

Teach them life skills to live independently and we would encourage them to go back into society and make something

of themselves.”

The governor’s wife thanked the organisations which gave her the awards.

She said she and her team remained committed to deploying their resources and time to shaping the lives of people.

Project Director, African Quarterly Magazine, Ikechi Uko, who gave the Tourism Persoanlity Award said: “This award is usually given to a person or product that has the best impact in a particular year and we have had different people and products and last year the best tour-

•Mrs Imoke

ism product out of Nigeria was Carnival Calabar and we recognise Mrs Imoke as the driving spirit behind this project.”

48

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

To the glory of God and by the kind gesture of the monarch, I was appointed. It is not by my power but the grace of God and the will of the people that I should lead the committee saddled with responsibility of organising the coronation activities

Monarch rallies Itsekiri at anniversary •Continued from Page 18 bowed in shame and defeat, and loss of hope and credibility, but with confidence that God is with us.”

He said: “There is also the need and challenge to preserve our land for the benefit of our people, by the grace of God, no part of our land shall be ceded to other people, no matter how we may be attacked”.

He said the Delta State government six years ago released the sum of N200 million to rehabilitate those displaced during the fratricidal wars of 1999.

According to him the committee he set up has completed the houses for forty communities.

He lamented that natural resources exploited from his domain has not benefitted his people, stressing that the Itsekiri people will do their utmost to share in the benefits accruing from the exploitation of the resources in Warri Kingdom.

He commended Itsekiri people for rallying to the call to contribute to the development of the Itsekiri nation.

He said he had strengthened the Warri Council of chiefs by the recent conferment of titles on some individuals in the community.

Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan in an address, said the occasion was nostalgic.

His words: “Coming back here today for this ceremony is full of nostalgia for many of us .Those who were here 25 years ago when the coronation took place will understand what I am saying, but in all this we thank God that you directed that the 25 anniversary should be held on these grounds and by the grace of God we are here to hold it on these grounds.”

He praised the organising committee for ensuring that the anniversary •Continued from Page 18 cynics were not pacified. In truth, the bad condition of some of the roads left many with little hope. For instance, the Luma-Babanna Road in Borgu Local Government Area had been an eyesore. Nigerians living in the area found it easier to access neighboring Benin Republic. Many communities in the area were cut off from the local government headquarters at New Bussa.

The situation became a source of diplomatic embarrassment to the state and indeed the country. Then

a

•One of the roads built by Aliyu

ceremony was held on the spot where the old amphitheater was burnt down during the Warri crises.

He assured, in the next one year, of “a more permanent structure, a bigger structure, a more befitting structure, not built by government, but built by Itsekiri people. I want to promise you that as soon as this ceremony is over the building of the permanent structure will commence”.

He praised the various ethnic groups in the state for preserving peace in the state.

Uduaghan urged the various ethnic groups to live in peace, •Chiefs at the ceremony stressing that his recent trip to Rwanda brought home peace…Let me assure them that there the truth that violence does not pay. is a government in place and the govHe warned those fomenting eth- ernment will do what it is supposed nic hatred within the State, stressing to do if they decide to foment crises that his administration will deal de- in any part of Delta State” cisively with them.

An exultant chairman of the organHis words, “I know that there are ising committee of the 25th coronaa few persons who do not believe that tion anniversary, Chief Emmanuel we should be living in peace, but I Tetsola, Oluebajaje of Warri Kingwant to assure those persons that the dom expressed appreciation to the government will not sleep, we will monarch for appointing him as head not keep our eyes open and some of the organising committee, stresspersons decide that there should be ing that the success recorded was the no peace, we shall also not give them efforts and time of all members of

the committee.

His words: “To the glory of God and by the kind gesture of the monarch, I was appointed. It is not by my power but the grace of God and the will of the people that I should lead the committee saddled with responsibility of organising the coronation activities.

For me it is an honour and privilege to serve. The success we are recording today is the joint cooperative efforts of members of my committee.”

Chief Tetsola said the support enjoyed by the Itsekiri monarch is an

Infrastructural renewal in Niger travellers on the 38 kilometer road which was first constructed in 1958 spens five to six hours to New Bussa.

But today, communities along this road are not only opened up, farm produce from the communities which hitherto were left to rot away due to lack of access road to markets are now being transported to consumers with ease.

The construction of N142.2 million Bunu-Gurara Waterfall Road through

the bond was also lauded because the road has opened up the popular Gurara waterfall to investors. It was based on the completion of the road that a private investor recently indicated interest in investing some huge sum of money to transform the area to an international standard through a memorandum of understanding with the government. Two other hospitality investors are also interested in the waterfall that had been aban-

doned for years Aliyu’s dream of industrialising the state, especially Minna, the state capital, would have remained a dream, due to the poor road network of Minna Industrial Layout. The industrial estate was carved out during the administration of Colonel David Mark. To actualise this dream, Aliyu’s administration invested N633.3 million of the bonds on the re-construction and rehabilitation of the road network, with the sole intention of opening up the industrial layout for industrial activities to enable private sector to participate in the rejuvenation of the state economy.

Five major roads that have been begging for attention over the years in the state capital, Minna, were also given a facelift. Among the five roads constructed within Minna Township, the Idris Legbo Kutigi Road, the Bay Clinic Road, Peter Sariki Road once lay moribund for years yet it is in the nerve centre of the state capital.

The people living along Maiguduri Road and Zarumai quarters can now heave the sign of relief; residents can now drive their cars to their houses, while commercial vehicles can now enter the area without stress. The construction of N313.3 million Birigi– Gwari-Lapai Road has brought succour to many Gwari communities in Bosso and Paikoro Local Government Areas of the state.

Also through the bond, the state government awarded the construction of internal access road within the Three Arm Zones to the tune of N898.7 million which has reached over 65 per cent stage of completion.

endorsement by the Itsekiri nation, pointing out that under the reign of the monarch the Itsekiri nation have enjoyed unparalleled development and unity.

“The Itsekiris look up to him as their father, especially in times of great need,” he said. “He is the last resort for the Itsekiri people. He has proved himself with courage and determination and he has never failed the Itsekiri people. As you can see, the outpouring of affection and love by the people is tremendous.”

The Aliyu administration invested N633.3 million of the bonds on the re-construction and rehabilitation of roads, with the sole intention of opening up the industrial layout for industrial activities It was a big party for the people of Batati–Dabban in Niger South senatorial area, when Governor Aliyu commissioned the N436 million the road linking the over 27 farming communities in the area. It was the same story with the construction of Kutigi – Fazhi road which cost of N241.5 million.

The success story of the N6 billion bonds may have informed the recent sourcing of another N9 billion through 2011 fiscal budget roll over to 2012 budget to construct bridge among other things across the popular River Kaduna at Shiroro is also worthwhile.

The fact that the opponents of the government always use the bond to attack her projects and the government resort to bond as a way of complementing its paucity of funds would no doubt continue to be the melting pot of disagreement and story of success or failure.

To the people of the state, funding of infrastructural deficiency through the capital market has come to stay, as it has become the redeemer in the face of limited or scarce resources.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

49

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

50

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 10-5-12

Unilever Nigeria pays N5.30b dividend •Stock market dips by 0.10%

U

NILEVER Nigeria Plc has assured shareholders that it has built sufficient structure to ensure sustained growth and returns to shareholders just as shareholders approved distribution of N5.30 billion as cash dividends for the 2011 business year.

Speaking at the annual general meeting of the conglomerate in Lagos yesterday, chairman, Unilever Nigeria, Nnaemeka Achebe, said the company has fared well despite the difficult operating environment. He assured shareholders that the company would continue to consolidate gains from huge investments in previous years to provide improved returns to shareholders.

He pointed out that the strong fundamentals of the company show the success of its growth initiatives and its resilience to sustain growth into the future and deliver improved shareholder value over the years.

Citing the positive performance of the company, Achebe said the 27 per cent increase in cash dividends for the 2011 business year was a reflection of the commitment of the company to sustained shareholder value and its investor friendly policy.

Shareholders at the meeting approved distribution N5.30 billion, representing a dividend of N1.40 per share, 27.3 per cent above N1.10 per share paid for the 2010 business year.

Audited report and accounts of Unilever Nigeria for the year ended December 31, 2011

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

showed that turnover rose from N46.81 billion in 2010 to N54.72 billion in 2011, an increase of 16.9 per cent. Profit before tax closed 2011 at N7.98 billion as against N6.15 billion recorded in 2010, representing an increase of 29.8 per cent.

Profit after tax also increased by 31 per cent from N4.18 billion to N5.49 billion in 2011.

The conglomerate’s shareholders’ funds improved to N9.66 billion compared with N8.34 billion in 2010.

“Our company’s performance reinforced its capability to continue to win the hearts of its consumers through brands, which create a better future for them everyday. Our strong fundamentals attest to the success of our growth initiatives and our commitment to continue to invest into the future and deliver sustained shareholder value,” Achebe said.

He pointed out that the company has raised the level of investment in manufacturing capacity, upgraded its plants for better quality and better capacity, which would allow it to further drive its internal efficiencies and withstand operating challenges.

According to him, 2011 was a proof that Unilever Nigeria has been well positioned to continue its upward growth trend into the future. The growth initiatives embarked on in 2011 would continue to yield sustained results while the company’s commitment to future investments will

enable it to leverage emerging market opportunities.

“As a member of the Unilever Group, Unilever Nigeria will continue to deliver products to satisfy the future needs and aspirations of our consumers and develop new way s of doing business that will allow us to double the size of our business while reducing our environmental impact,” Achebe assured.

He added that Unilever Nigeria would partner with all stakeholders to achieve its growth objectives and corporate social responsibility goals, urging shareholders to support the company’s aspirations.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian stock market closed on the negative yesterday as equities’ capitalisation dipped to N7.179 trillion from its opening value of N7.186 trillion. The benchmark index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE)-the All Share Index (ASI) dropped by 0.10 percent from its index on board of 22,533.72 points to 22,511.30 points. This depressed the year-to-date return at NSE to 8.59 per cent.

NCR Nigeria topped the slackers’ list with a loss of 72 kobo to close at N13.80. Berger Paints followed with a loss of 44 kobo to close at N8.44.

Stanbic IBTC Bank dropped by 30 kobo to N6.60. Guaranty Trust Bank lost 20 kobo to close at N16.30. AvonCrowncaps and United Bank for Africa lost 19 kobo each to close at N3.79 and N3.63 respectively.

However, Flour Mills of Nigeria led the gainers with addition of N1 to close at N62.

Cadbury Nigeria followed with a gain of 67 kobo to close at N14.74. Presco added 61 kobo to close at N13. Dangote Flour Mills rose by 27 kobo to close at N5.73 while Cement Company of Northern Nigeria added 20 kobo to close at N5.20 per share.

Total turnover stood at 332.36 million shares valued at N2.38 billion in 4,247 deals.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 10-5-12

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

51

MONEY LINK

Sterling Bank’s Q1 gross earnings rise by 79%

S

TERLING Bank witnessed significant growths in the top-line and profitability in the first quarter as the lender’s gross earnings rose by 79 per cent to N17.2 billion.

Interim report and accounts of the bank for the first quarter ended March 31, 2012 released yesterday showed impressive growths in all key profit and loss indicators as the bank maintained a healthy balance sheet.

The first quarter report, presented in the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) format, showed that the core interest income doubled by 116 per cent to N13.6 billion while net interest income jumped by 73 per cent. Operating income grew by 49 per cent just as profits before and after tax rose by 24 per cent and 16 per cent respectively.

Gross earnings stood at N17.2 billion in first quarter 2012 as against N9.7 billion recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2011. Net interest income rose from N3.6 billion in

Stories by Collins Nweze

2011 to N6.3 billion in 2012. Operating income rose from N6.1 billion to N9 billion while profits before and after tax increased to N1.6 billion and N1.3 billion respectively.

Key balance sheet items also improved during the period with total assets adding N17 billion to close the quarter at N521.4 billion as against N504.7 billion in December 2011.

Customer deposits increased from to N412 billion as against N392.1 billion in December 2011 while net loans and advances grew from N164.3 billion in December 2011 to N177.8 billion in March 2012.

Commenting on the first quarter performance, managing director, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Yemi Adeola, said with the completion of the integration of the Equitorial Trust Bank, which it recently acquired, the bank has re-aligned its business to deepen customer relationships and enhance market penetration.

According to him, the enlarged

branch network provides a platform for low cost deposit mobilization, the result of which is evident in the 400 basis point improvement in deposit mix during the first quarter.

“Sterling Bank is well positioned to capture growth opportunities going forward for the rest of 2012 and the board is confident in our ability to continue to create value for our shareholders,” Adeola assured.

The first quarter performance comes on the heels of roundly applauded performance of the bank in 2011. Shareholders of the bank are meeting next week to consider distribution of about N1.6 billion as cash dividends to shareholders, representing a dividend per share of 10 kobo for the 2011 business year.

Audited report and accounts of Sterling Bank for the year ended December 31, 2011 had shown robust growths in incomes and profitability as well as improvements in assets quality and returns. Gross earnings rode on the back of 110 per cent growth in non-interest income and

23 per cent growth interest-based incomes to N45.2 billion in 2011 as against N30.4 billion in 2010, indicating an increase of 49 per cent. Interest income had increased from N24.5 billion in 2010 to N30.2 billion. Operating income also grew by 32 per cent to N27.0 billion in 2011 compared with N20.4 billion in 2010.

Profit after tax and extra-ordinary income thus jumped by 60 per cent to N6.7 billion in 2011 as against N4.2 billion in 2010.

The bank had also emerged with a stronger and healthier balance sheet as the proportion of bad loans to total loans and advances surpassed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s industry target of 5.0 per cent at 4.8 per cent. Non-performing loans had stood at 10.7 per cent of gross loans in 2010. Sterling Bank’s total balance sheet nearly doubled from N259.6 billion in 2010 to N504.4 billion in 2011. Total deposits doubled by 104

NIBSS gets new CEO

FirstBank drives e-payment with dual currency card

F

IRSTBANK Nigeria Plc has introduced a Visa debit card, that can be linked to both naira and dollar accounts of its customers.

The product, according to a statement, has enabled the lender meet the e-payment needs of its customers.

The product is Chip and PIN enabled, giving users online realtime access to their funds. The card can be used to make payments through Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Point of sale terminals and web merchants.

The bank said Europay, MasterCard and VISA EMV- Chip

and PIN card have the highest security guarantee for customers’ transactions based global best practices.”The dual currency card, which can be linked to both naira and dollar accounts, when you in the country or abroad, has a life span of two years and is used anywhere VISA logos are displayed,” the statement said.

The bank explained that the card has a three digit number on the reverse of the card for additional security for web transactions, adding that the hologram on the right hand is an additional security feature, which assures of the authenticity of the product.

T

HE Board of Directors of Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) Plc has announced the appointment of Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi, as the new Managing Director/CEO of the electronic payments and settlement company.

A statement from NIBSS said it also appointed two Executive Directors, namely: Mr. Ezekiel Oyeniyi Ajao as Executive Director, Technology & Operations while Mrs. Christabel Onyejekwe is Executive Director, Business Development.

These appointments according to the statement, constitute a climax of the transformation project of company, which is now commit-

According to the bank, the product is easy, convenient, has portable access to funds and is accepted at over 29 million locations and for cash withdrawals at over 1.8 million ATMs in over 200 countries worldwide wherever its logo is displayed.

The product also has a daily ATM withdrawal limit of N100,000, and maximum daily POS transaction limit of N500,000 locally while daily ATM withdrawal limit of $1,000 when used abroad. It said the product is highly secured, EMV compliant and can be received within 72 hours of completing necessary documentations.

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 10-5-12 SYMBOL

DANGFLOUR PRESCO CADBURY FIDSON CCNN GOLDINSURE TRANSCORP UBN UPL ACCESS

O/PRICE

5.46 12.39 14.07 0.93 5.00 0.55 0.55 4.72 3.51 6.51

C/PRICE

5.73 13.00 14.74 0.97 5.20 0.57 0.57 4.89 3.60 6.65

113m

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

C/PRICE 3.42 3.63 13.80 8.44 3.28 1.16 1.56 3.79 0.60 6.60

CHANGE 0.18 0.19 0.72 0.44 0.17 0.06 0.08 0.19 0.03 0.30

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 10-5-12

SYMBOL O/PRICE PORTPAINT 3.60 UBA 3.82 NCR 14.52 BERGER 8.88 TRANSEXPR 3.45 IKEJAHOTEL 1.22 MAYBAKER 1.64 AVONCROWN 3.98 JAPAULOIL 0.63 IBTC 6.90

Exchange Rate (N) 155.8 155.8

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

CHANGE

0.27 0.61 0.67 0.04 0.20 0.02 0.02 0.17 0.09 0.14

113m

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES OBB Rate Call Rate

ted to play its role as a financial market shared-service infrastructure.

It will also help in creating strong potentials for effective collaboration with other stakeholders towards actualising the Cash-Less Lagos and Cash-Less Nigeria initiatives.

Mr. Shonubi, the immediate past Executive Director (Information Technology) in Union Bank of Nigeria PLC, holds double Masters degree respectively in Business Administration and Mechanical Engineering, from University of Lagos. He is also a resourceful Information Technology-driven banker with over 19 years professional experience

DATA BANK

Tenor

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

•Adeola

per cent to N406.5 billion as against N199.3 billion while the bank expanded its risks assets as net loans and advances including rose by 60 per cent to N163.5 billion from N101.9 billion in 2010. Shareholders’ funds also grew by 56 per cent from N26.3 billion to N41.0 billion.

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE 9.17 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 123.90 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 105.44 THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.75 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.08 BGL NUBIAN FUND 0.89 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,706.44 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 9.42 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 7,690.96 THE DISCOVERY FUND 193.00 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

9.08 1.00 123.77 104.82 0.72 1.08 0.88 1,699.65 8.96 1.33 1.80 7,902.13 191.08 1.62

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous 04 July, 2011

Current 07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

52

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

53

NEWS NEMA in schools From Chris Oji, Enugu

THE National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has inaugurated Disaster Risk Reduction Clubs in 10 pilot secondary schools in Imo State.

The agency said the initiative aims to imbibe the culture of disaster management among youths.

NEMA Director-General, Alhaji Mohamed Sani Sidi said the programme is meant to catch the “future leaders young” on disaster management.

Sidi, who was represented by the South South Zonal Coordinator of the agency, Mr Umesie Emenike, said plans are underway to extend the programme to all parts of the country.

He said the pupils would be trained on how to handle first aid and general disaster management.

“This is because when the youths or the future leaders embrace such attitudinal change, Nigeria will be better for it,” he said NEMA South East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Bandele Onimode, whose office organised the programme in collaboration with Imo State Emergency Management Agency, thanked Governor Rochas Okorocha for his commitment to disaster management.

He said the agency started the programme with youths because it is easier to imbibe cultures in younger people than in adults.

Jonathan blames Africa’s woes on bad leaders P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday said sit-tight African leaders cause the major problems plaguing the continent.

He said their failure to submit to the apparatuses of their countries propel them to change constitutions to suit their personal interests rather than those of the states.

Jonathan spoke in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, at the ongoing World Economic Forum.

He noted that it is for selfish interest that such leaders manipulate their countries’ constitutions to extend their stay in office.

Other panelists at the session were Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi; Gabonese President Ali Bongo; Namibian Prime Minister Gideon Angula; and Angolan Prime Minister Paulo Kassoma.

Jonathan said unless African leaders obey their nations’ constitutions, the desire to make the continent compete with the rest of the world would remain a pipe dream.

Besides, he said leaders must have the capacity to deplore identified human resources for the development of the state.

From Vincent Ikuomola, Addis Ababa

The Nigerian leader blamed incessant instability on the continent on military juntas, saying they are the reasons the continent remains where it is today.

He said: “If you look at the African country historically, from where we are coming, we have been having states or different governments because of military invasions.

But the leaders must not see themselves above the state and not put their interests above the interests of the state. This is the cause of most problems.

“Also, a leader may not be the best brain or the strongest, physically, to be the President. But he must have the ability to see potentials and use the right people. A leader must also be firm.

“If you are convinced that a certain thing is right, you must keep to it and, if you are convinced that it is the right way to go, you

must continue in it in the best interest of the people.”

Jonathan noted that many theoretical solutions cannot always turn out to be the most practical, saying a leader must be honest to the people and be ready to admit his failings.

He said: “The key thing about leadership is honesty and being a person who is able to solve specific problems in different ways.

He must find a way to solve problems. There is not always one way; a leader must find the best way. He must be committed to developing his people.”

Bongo reechoed Jonathan’s statement on the need for honesty from leadership.

He said African leaders must first focus on their countries by building strong institutions, adding: “It starts with house cleaning and making sure that we are under the rule of law. You always hear that Africa is rich and everyone wants to have a part of it.

But Africans are poor. As leaders, we want to make sure that Africa is rich and Africans rich too.

ICPC agency recovers debt for bank

By Olamilekan Andu

THE National Anti-Corruption Volunteer Corps (NAVC), an arm of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has recovered N3 million bad loans from customers of IjebuIfe Microfinance Bank Nigeria Limited, Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The money was recovered in the past one month.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Abeokuta, the state capital, NAVC State Coordinator Idris Abu said the bank sought the commission’s assistance to recover the loans its customers were owing for years.

Idris said: “The bank’s director, Mr Peter Kuye, came to our office and asked NAVC members to help recover those loans that have been obtained from the bank. We swung into action and, with a lot of determination, we recovered the loans to the last kobo. Some were arrested and handed over to the police before they paid their debts; others, who absconded, later ran to the bank and paid up.”

A statement yesterday by NAVC National Coordiantor, Mr Folu Olamiti, said Kuye expressed appreciation to NAVC and ICPC for helping to curb corruption and other acts of malfeasance.

He said: “We appreciate the men of NAVC for their courage and dedication to duty. We know that the task was enormous and demanding, but they were able to accomplish it. We shall tell the whole world about this landmark achievement.”

• Prof Utuama (second left); Wogu (right); Dr. Babalakin (left) and Ilya at the ceremony in Abuja...yesterday

Social costs of strikes unbearable, says minister

T

HE Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, yesterday said the cost of strikes and lockouts are unbearable to the government.

He urged Nigerian workers to avoid them when they want to seek resolutions to their grievances on trade disputes with the government.

The minister spoke in Abuja at the inauguration of NASU House, the national secretariat of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions.

Wogu noted that strikes are like ill-winds that blow employers and employees no good.

T

•‘Fed Govt ready to implement pacts’ From Dupe OlaoyeOsinkolu, Abuja

Dignitaries at the event include Delta State Deputy Governor Amos Utuamah and Chairman of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, Dr Wale Babalakin.

Babalakin, who is the Chairman of the Implementation Monitoring Committee of the 2009 agreements between the Federal Government and university unions, said the government would implement its pacts with NASU. The pacts have been subjects

of contention between the union and the government.

He urged Nigerian workers to stop going on strikes because they are not helpful to their cause.

Babalakin hailed NASU for the maturity it has shown through the peaceful resolution of industrial disputes.

He urged NASU and other stakeholders in the education sector to support the government to achieve its objectives for ensuring peaceful resolutions of industrial disputes.

The businessman decried the falling academic standard in the

country. He urged everyone to support the government to reverse the trend.

Utuamah, who warned against incessant strikes, urged the union to use the determination with which it acquired the magnificent secretariat to move to greater heights.

NASU President Comrade Ladi Ilya said the union bought the N300 million mansion from the N200 levy imposed on its members over the years.

She said the union did not borrow from any bank.

Ilya said the union’s General Secretary, Comrade Peters Adeyemi, was the brain behind the achievement.

Senate to probe deployment of 2,000 armed HE Senate yesterday musketry, amongst others, he NDLEA recruits mandated its Commitadded.

tee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes to investigate the recruitment and deployment of over 2,000 untrained operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

It directed the agency to withdraw the untrained armbearing operatives deployed in parts the country.

This followed the adoption of a motion entitled: Deployment of recruits of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency without training, sponsored by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (Bayelsa West) and 23 others.

In his lead debate, Lokpobiri said the NDLEA was established to, among others, enforce and administer the coordination of drug laws, adopt measures to identify, trace,

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

freeze, confiscate or seize proceeds from drugs, adopt measures to eradicate the illicit cultivation of narcotic plants and eliminate the demand for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

He noted that Section 9 of the NDLEA Act CAP. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, provides that the NDLEA shall initiate, develop and improve specific training programme for its law enforcement and other personnel who charged with the responsibility for the suppression of offences created by the Act and that such programme shall include law enforcement techniques.

The senator said Section 4(4) of the Act provides that for the purpose of carrying out or enforcing the provisions of the Act, all officers of the agency shall have the same powers, authorities and privileges (including power to bear arms) as given by law - to members of the Nigeria police.

Lokpobiri said the NDLEA, under the chairmanship of late General Musa Bamaiyi, established a Training Academy in Jos, the Plateau State capital, which was, until the leadership of the incumbent chairman, a regional academy for West African sub-region.

According to him, basic training at the academy is for six months. The recruits are taught intelligence gathering, interdiction, investigation,

He, however, said the agency recruited about 2,000 operatives and deployed them in states and area commands without training them.

The senator said an NDLEA officer allegedly shot dead Joseph Chia in Taraku town, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, on 16 October, last year.

Lokpobiri said the exigencies of the times required that personnel of the agencies should not only be trained in basic law enforcement but also retrained in contemporary drug law enforcement and security management.

He noted that Nigerians would be at grave risk in the deployment of untrained persons in a drug law enforcement agency.

Court to rule on contempt proceedings against FAAN’s MD May 30

By Eric Ikhilae USTICE Fatimat Nyako of the Federal High Court, Lagos, has fixed May 30 for ruling on whether or not the Managing Director of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. George Uriesi, should be imprisoned for allegedly flouting the court’s order.

The court will also rule on the objection Uriesi raised against the court’s jurisdiction to hear the contempt proceedings initiated by an aviation services firm, Maevis Limited.

Justice Nyako chose the date yesterday after entertaining arguments on committal proceedings and objection from Prof Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) for Maevis, and Kola Awodein (SAN), for FAAN. Maevis initiated the contempt proceedings on the grounds that the FAAN management allegedly violated an earlier order of the court that parties to the substantive suit should refrain from any action that might disrupt the res (subject of the dispute) pending an arbitration.

Maevis alleged that rather than maintain the res and await the outcome of the arbitration - as ordered by the court FAAN unilaterally terminated the contract and ejected it from the airports.

Maevis is challenging the termination of the contract requiring it to provide Airport Operations Management System platform in four international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt.

Arguing his client’s objection, Awodein prayed the court to strike out the contempt application on the grounds that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

He averred that the court, whose order formed the subject of the contempt proceedings, should refrain from assuming jurisdiction over the contempt proceedings in the interest of justice.

Awodein urged the court to decline jurisdiction on the grounds that the records of proceedings of the court did not show that the court actually made an order that was allegedly disobeyed by his client.

The lawyer noted that the court’s records did not reveal that the alleged order was reiterated by the judge on May 19, last year, as Osinbajo argued.

Awodein averred that the court did make the order, saying the court’s failure to reflect the order in its records of proceedings amounted to an “ambiguity”. This, he argued, could not form the basis of contempt proceedings.

Osinbajo said his client’s committal proceedings were duly initiated. He prayed the court to discountenance Awodein’s argument and assume jurisdiction.

On the committal proceedings, Osinbajo argued that the termination of his client’s contract with FAAN and its alleged subsequent “physical eviction” from the airports amounted to a disobedience of the court’s order delivered in December 2010.

J

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

54

NEWS

Fashola hails health workers on free health mission

By Miriam Ndikanwu

L

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola yesterday thanked doctors and health workers, who were part of the government’s free health mission in Kosofe Local Government Area.

Addressing the people at the Kosofe Council Complex, Fashola said the mission was part of the government’s effort to keep the citizens healthy.

He said the government will take the free health mission to every nook and cranny of the state.

Fashola said: “This is our preventive healthcare strategy. We would continue to run hospitals, but we want you to stay away from hospitals and be healthy. We promised you quality healthcare during the elections and we are delivering on our promises.”

He said over 25,000 residents have benefited from the free health mission in several local governments.

Fashola thanked about 220 health workers for voluntarily supporting the initiative.

Kosofe Council Chairman Afolabi Sofola thanked the governor for the initiative and urged him to provide free dental and eye treatment in the area.

F

•Fashola (middle) addressing residents during the exercise...yesterday

Akeredolu sues Ondo agency over alleged illegal fees

ORMER President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) yesterday sued the Ondo State Signage and Advertisement Agency for the alleged illegal demand for fees.

Joined in the suit are the House of Assembly and the Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice.

Akeredolu, a governorship aspirant of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), said the agency is demanding N1,450,000 and other sundry charges for the registration and issuance of licences for his campaign vehicles.

The suit, which was filed by his lawyer, Mr. Kola Olawoye, is praying the court to restrain the defendants from forcibly collecting money from the plaintiff or threatening him with sanc-

From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

tions.

Olawoye said the state government lacks the power to impose or demand money from individuals or groups on advertisements.

He said only the local government has the legal right to demand payment on advertisements.

Olawoye said by demanding money for outdoor advertising, the state government has violated Section 7(5), Fourth Schedule, Article 1(k), (i) of the Constitution, 2011.

He said the government’s action was an attempt to frustrate his client’s political ambition and urged the court to order the defend-

‘The agency illegally collected N150,000 with receipt No. 0000607 from my client for the erection of an outdoor billboard in front of the plaintiff’s campaign office at No. 32, Oyemekun Road, Akure’ ants to return N150,000, which he claimed was wrongfully collected, to his client.

Olawoye said: “The

agency illegally collected N150,000 with receipt No. 0000607 from my client for the erection of an outdoor billboard in front of the plaintiff’s campaign office at No. 32, Oyemekun Road, Akure.”

Justice Segun Odusola fixed May 16 for the hearing of the matter.

Speaking with The Nation in Akure, the Coordinator of the Akeredolu Campaign Organisation, Banji Ayiloye, alleged that the government was trying to frustrate aspirants from participating in the October 20 governorship election.

He showed The Nation a letter allegedly sent to the organisation by the government, which stated that anybody who brands a big bus must pay N1.2 million; mini bus, N600,000; and car, N250,000; annually.

Activists call for OSOPADEC chairman’s sack

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PRESSURE group in Ondo State, the Committee for Good Governance (CGG), yesterday called for the sack of the embattled Chairman of the State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Mr. Debo Ajimuda.

Ajimuda was arrested a few weeks ago by officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

for alleged fraud.

In a statement by its Chairman, Otunba Oyemakin Adeniyi, CGG said the commission has not completed any project since Ajimuda assumed office.

The statement reads: “We challenge the government of Ondo State to tell the world what it has done with OSOPADEC fund, an action

which has taken the oil producing communities 25 years backward.

“In this situation, what is expected of a responsive government is Ajimuda’s sack for the embarrassment he has caused the state.”

The group said the anti-corruption war should not be limited to the Federal Government, adding that states must play an active role in it.

It said: “It is apparent that

Governor Olusegun Mimiko is deliberately unfair and unjustly promoting mediocrity over merit in his appointment of Ajimuda as OSOPADEC chairman.

“Government business cannot be tied to a single person. Ilaje has competent hands that can manage the commission, but because of Mimiko’s selfish agenda, he nominated Ajimuda to strangulate the oil producing communities.”

Court strikes out case against Oyo monarch High Court, sitting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, yesterday struck out the suit filed by the Onigboho of Igboho, Oba John Bolarinwa, against the Baale Igbope of Igbope in Orelope Local Government Area, Oba Mathew Olaniyi Atoyebi.

The case has been on for over 30 years.

Justice Moshood Abass said the prosecutor and the claim-

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From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

ant failed to prove that Igbope is part of Igboho and struck out the case.

He said: “Majority of the writ summons emphasises that Igbope is not a quarter in Igboho kindred and that the Alepata of Igboho is the senior of the Onigboho.

“I am not convinced that the title is not Baale Igbope,

but Baale Igbope of Igboho.

Where lies the lordship of the Onigboho, if the Alapeta, who is the senior traditional ruler in the council, is not complaining about the title of Onigbope?

“The claimant has failed to file substantial evidence to support his case. The Onigboho has no power to make Baale Igbope answerable to him. The defendants are hereby discharged and

the case struck out.”

Oba Atoyebi described the judgment as “a declaration of the truth and the freedom of Igbope people from bondage”.

He said he would ensure a peaceful relationship with the Onigboho, if the monarch is willing to work with him.

But Onigboho’s counsel, Bola Rasak, said his client would appeal the judgment.

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

Youths back Boroffice From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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OUTHS, under the aegis of the Ondo State Democratic Youths (ONDEY), yesterday backed the governorship aspiration of Senator Ajayi Boroffice.

Boroffice, who represents Ondo North District in the Senate, is aspiring to contest the October 20 governorship election on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

During a solidarity visit to the aspirant’s campaign office in Akure, the state capital, ONDEY said Boroffice has contributed immensely to the development of the state and the country.

The group, which has over 4,000 members across the state, has been mobilising support for Boroffice and the ACN. Its President, Mr. Bayo Ayelemi, said: “Our mission here is to show our support for the senator’s aspiration to secure the ACN’s governorship ticket.”

Describing Boroffice as “a man of enviable character and integrity”, Ayelemi said the state would benefit from his wealth of experience and global exposure, if he is elected.

He urged the leadership of the ACN to make Boroffice the party’s standard bearer.

The Director of Mobilisation, Boroffice Campaign Organisation (BCO), Mr. Jimi Adekanle, who received the youths, said the welfare of youths, especially in job creation, is a priority to Boroffice.

Adekanle said ACN has good plans for the people and urged the youths to work for the party’s victory.

Ogun Deputy Speaker, Kessington, KWAM 1, others for award

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GUN State Deputy Speaker Tola Banjo; prominent busi-

nessmen Chief Adebutu Kessington and Asiwaju Olajide Awosedo; and Fuji King Wasiu Ayinde will be honoured at the maiden edition of the Ijebu Man of the Year Award.

Others are the Mayegun of Ijebuland, Chief Bisi Oreagba; Chief Kunle Kalejaiye (SAN); Caretaker Chairman, Ijebu Northeast Local Government, Mr. Idowu Oshimade; Chairman, Debash Oil, Alhaji F.A.

Soewu; Senator Olamilekan Mustapha and Otunba J.O. Shonibare.

The event will hold on May 18 at the Ijebu-Ode Club, Ogun State.

The organisers are Dayo Osinowo Initiatives (DOSI), a community-based NonGovernmental Organisation (NGO) and the Ijebu Flavours Magazine.

DOSI Executive Director Dayo Osinowo, in a statement, said the recipients were selected based on their contributions to the development of Ijebuland and Ogun State.

Woman killed in Ogun road crash

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WOMAN was killed yesterday in a car accident that occurred at Itori on the Ogun State stretch of the Abeokuta-Lagos Road.

Sixteen others were injured.

The accident occurred about 2pm at D.S. Adegbenro Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Polytechnic junction.

It was learnt that the tyre of a bus marked XT 375 SR burst and the driver lost con-

•18 injured From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

trol of the vehicle.

The victims were taken to the State Hospital, Ifo. The body of the deceased, who died at the accident scene, has been deposited at the hospital’s morgue.

The Itori- Ewekoro Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr. Fatai Bakare, said: “Over-speeding caused that fatal accident.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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NEWS

Seven dead in Plateau attack

Police arrest lovers for killing baby From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

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WO lovers, Ado Bala and Fati Umar from Riruwai Local Government Area of Kano State, who allegedly killed their newborn baby, were among the 98 suspected criminals arrested and charged to court by the Kano State Police Command in the last two weeks.

Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Idris told reporters yesterday that the two lovers had a child out of wedlock and killed him by throwing him inside the toilet to conceal his birth.

He said Ado impregnated Fati out of wedlock, “and when she was delivered of a baby boy, she threw him inside the toilet to conceal his birth. On interrogation, both suspects confessed to committing the offence, while the medical report obtained, confirmed the death of the child as a result of suffocation.”

The culprits were charged to a Kano High Court for culpable homicide.

The commissioner, who decried the spate of armed robberies in the city in recent times, said the police recorded huge success in clamping down on criminals through the help of citizens who provided information to the command.

Idris also said the police have nabbed members of a syndicate who specialised in strangling passengers who fell to their tricks as they posed as transport operators.

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EVEN people including two children were yesterday killed at Rinyam-Tahoss in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State by unknown gunmen. Three are receiving treatment at the Vom Christian Hospital, Vom. Residents of the village suspected that the assailants are Fulani herdsmen.

An eyewitness said the

From Marie-Therese Nanlong, Jos

gunmen entered the village at about 12:30am and shot sporadically.

A state of emergency was declared in Riyom Local Government following series of attacks in the last one month.

Armed Fulani herdsmen last week also attacked the House of Assembly member

representing the area, Daniel Dem, and some journalists who went on an assessment of the situation.

Dem condemned the attack, describing it as wicked and unfair.

His words: “Seven people were shot dead including two children. Three were severely injured. They are now receiving medical attention at the Vom Christian Hospital.

“I appeal to my people to remain calm. They should not take the law into their hands as appropriate measures are being taken to stop these senseless killings.”

When The Nation contacted the spokesman for the Special Task Force (STF), Captain Mdalhyelya Markus, for comment, he said he was driving and switched off his phone.

21 jailed in Abuja for environmental offences

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HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) prosecuted and secured the imprisonment of 21 persons for various environmental offences between March 10 and April 24.

The FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, who spoke yesterday at an operation briefing in Abuja, remarked that the FCTA is bent on maintaining a well kept environment in the Federal Capital Territory.

He said apart from those imprisoned, the FCTA also prosecuted 1,258 persons during the period under review.

Senator Mohammed said during the same period, the FCTA through the Abuja Environmental Protection Board sealed off 86 premises for various environmental offences.

He said Environmental Health Officers inspected 1,372 premises to ensure they

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

are clean as the FCTA believes that prevention is better than cure.

According to him, “the Abuja Environmental Protection Board during the period served 1,116 abatement notices and eight premises were fumigated.”

He said the Abuja Environmental Protection Board collaborated with a security firm at Jabi and Gwarinpa I (Life-Camp) districts, which led to the arrest of thieves and recovery of stolen sewer manhole covers; adding that the suspects are currently being prosecuted.

The minister vowed to provide the needed political power for the Abuja Environmental Protection Board to effectively perform its statutory responsibility, stressing that the cleanliness of Abuja is fait accompli because it is the window through which the world sees Nigeria.

Yobe relaxes curfew in Potiskum From Duku Joel, Damaturu

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OBE State Government has relaxed the curfew imposed in Potiskum by two hours.

According to a statement issued by Aminu Usman on behalf of the Deputy Governor Abubakar Aliyu, the curfew will now begin from 6.pm and end at 6.am, instead of the earlier order of 4.pm to 6.am.

Aliyu urged the residents of Potiskum and Yobe State in general to be law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies to save lives and property.

The statement said the changes made, only affected Potiskum and its environs.

Curfew was imposed in Potiskum from 4.pm to 6.am following the protest by youths on May 7. They demanded the withdrawal of soldiers in the town.

Alaroye publishes Historical Flashback Y the end of this

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month, a magazine called Historical Flash-

back will appear on the newsstand. The new tabloid is the concept of the ALAROYE Group of Newspapers.

According to the publishers, “Flashback is entirely an idea to bring out documented facts about Nigeria’s past. The objective of this is to use historical events to adjust the present happenings in order to have a better future.”

“We observe that our past is being forgotten,” says Mrs. Banke Akinlaja, Senior Publication Manager, “and it has become imperative that we remind ourselves. Those who cannot remember their past are condemned to repeat it, and

when we write about the past, we are actually writing about today and tomorrow as well.”

She added:”This monthly magazine promises indepth research into Nigeria’s past and how it is linked with the present, thereby becoming an invaluable material and credible source of information for those interested in our national affairs.

“Historical Flashback is a Nigerian national memoir. We want to bring the history of the country to memory so that the present generation can understand their country better and use the information to help in building a politically, economically and socially virile nation.”

•From left: Consultant Surgeon, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Dr. Rufai Mahmoud; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Prof. Emeritus Umaru Shehu; and Brand Manager (Dettol), Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited, Ms. Grace Imaga, at the 52nd Annual General Conference & Delegates’ Meeting of the association at the International Conference Centre, Abuja... yesterday.

Kwara lawmaker accuses Speaker of fraud

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HERE is rumpus in the Kwara State House of Assembly over allegation of fraud and high-handed attitude levelled against Speaker Razak Atunwa, representing Owode/Onire Constituency of Asa Local Government.

Chief Whip Iliasu Ibrahim representing Ipaye/Malete/ Oloru Constituency, accused the Speaker of running the affairs of the House recklessly.

He alleged that the Speaker has been awarding contracts without due process.

The Speaker and his accuser are members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a petition, Ibrahim is challenging Atunwa’s leadership style and accusing him of mismanagement of funds, capable of denting the image of the House.

The petition dated May 2 is entitled: “Serious allegations of mismanagement of Kwara State House of Assembly fund against Rt. Honourable Razak Atunwa representing Owode/Onire Constituency of Asa LGA/Kwara State by Honourable Iliasu Ibrahim of Ipaye/Malete/Oloru Constituency of Moro LGA.” The petition alleged among others that Atunwa “serially violates the law in the running of the affairs of the House, including his alleged refusal to consult with the House leadership on legislative matters, arbitrary award of fictitious contracts, failure to account for funds allocated for the running of the Assembly and travel allowances for members, and alleged diversion of House funds for private use.”

But the Speaker described

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

the allegation as “fictitious, mischievous, baseless, curious and of no effect.

He said: “I received a letter of complaint on May 4 from the Chief Whip of the House accusing me of some financial misdemeanours.

“On May 7, he wrote a letter to the Chairman, House Committee on Ethics, Privileges, Public Service and Judiciary, referring the matter to him.

“Herewith, in accordance with the rules 67P/4P1 of the Kwara State House of Assembly as amended, I hereby refer the case to you for thorough investigation and consequent report of finding to the House.

“In line with rule 67/P3, your committee is authorised to investigate any alleged violation by a member and recommend resolution to the House within appropriate time in the circumstances. I have forwarded my report on each of the allegations raised to the committee.”

A member of the House who craves anonymity said the issues have polarised the PDPdominated House.

Ibrahim alleged in the petition that Atunwa re-awarded a contract for an already functional website at the rate of N33, 888,700 (Thirty-three million, eight hundred and eighty-eight thousand, seven hundred naira) via a memo coded KWHA/S/35/121/82 of 19th March, 2012. He insisted the contract was unnecessary and did not follow the due process.

According to Ibrahim,

The petition alleged among others that Atunwa ‘serially violates the law in the running of the affairs of the House, including his alleged refusal to consult with the House leadership on legislative matters...’

Atunwa through a memo titled KWHA/5/135/Vol./455 and dated March 12, 2012 sought to collect another N81, 500,000 (Eighty-one million, five hundred thousand naira) for projects not approved by the House and without the knowledge of other principal officers.

The Chief Whip also raised questions on the “money released for recent overseas trip and how much was spent so far out of the N135million.

How much money has so far been released for capital projects between 2011 and 2012 and how much has been spent? How was the fifteen million naira released for the hosting of the North-Central Forum of Speakers spent?

Details of the expenses incurred for the pursuit of your personal ambition of becoming the Chairman of the Niger Speakers Forum.”

He also criticised Atunwa for his “arrogance”, adding: “As a foremost lawmaker and a lawyer by profession, you cannot claim to be unaware of the deleterious effects of fi-

nancial mismanagement and other abuses on the integrity and reputation of the Assembly.”

The memo read: “As legislators, we are expected to be extraordinarily honest, transparent and prudent in the day-to-day running of the affairs of the Assembly. As lawmakers and custodians of the law and order, we should shun acts that are detrimental to the welfare of members as well as the well-being of the generality of the people of our constituencies. Indeed, ours must be leadership by example. Unfortunately, your attitude and general conduct in the management of the affairs of the Assembly have been one of disappointment and regret because you have been so power intoxicated and arrogant that you have no regret for the views and feelings of anybody on important matters of the House.

“In his wisdom, Senator Bukola Saraki retained some of us for certain purposes. We were probably asked to come back because of the experience we had gained in the course of our last tenure. We are expected to serve as the stabilising factor by providing from time to time useful advice and suggestions on issues of common interest.

By arrogating all power to yourself and conducting the affairs of the Assembly in absolute secrecy, you have given enough room for suspicion as many of us are of the view that large-scale fraud and financial mismanagement are the order of the day as far as the Assembly matters are concerned.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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NEWS

EFCC to arraign Rep Hembe, Azubogu May 17

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N Abuja High Court yesterday granted the request of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to arraign Herman Hembe, the former Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Capital Market and Other Financial Institutions.

Justice Abubakar Umar also granted permission to the EFCC to arraign the former Vice Chairman of the committee, Chris Azubogu, over corruption charges.

The EFCC had, through its Counsel, Mr Onjekwu Obe, filed an application for leave to prefer a two-count criminal charge against the duo, under Section 185 (d) of the Criminal Procedure Code.

Obe said the application for seeking leave of the court to prefer a criminal charge was made under Section 185(B) of the Criminal Procedure Code.

He said: “I hereby apply for leave to prefer a criminal

charge against the above named accused.

“Attached herewith are the following documents: a copy of the charge in respect of which leave is sought, and a verifying affidavit.

“Others are names and addresses of the witnesses, statements of the witnesses and that of the two accused and other documentary evidences.”

In his ruling, Umar granted the application, and said that from the proof of evidence presented by the EFCC, Hembe and Azubogu are to be arraigned on Thursday, May 17.

“The application to prefer a criminal charge against Hon. Herman Hembe and Hon. Chris Azubogu has merit,” he added.

Obe told reporters later that with the consent given by the judge, Hembe and Azubogu would now be arraigned on May 17 on a two-count charge, bordering on misappropriation of public funds.

He said that the EFCC inves-

tigations revealed that Hembe and Azubogu were the two key actors in the N44 million fraud allegation rocking the House of Representatives Committee on Capital Market and Other Institutions.

The EFCC counsel added that investigations also revealed that the two had confessed that they did not attend the workshop for which they collected money from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

He also said that investigations further revealed that Hembe and Azubogu collected Estacode from SEC to attend a capacity building workshop in the Dominican Republic but never did.

Their confession, the counsel said, came on the day the EFCC launched a probe into the N30 million hotel bill allegedly incurred by SEC’s Director-General, Ms Arunma Oteh.

“EFCC has enough evidence to present to court and is ready to begin its case,” the counsel said.

Audu vs Wada: Tribunal reserves judgment in Kogi governorship dispute From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

•Audu

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HE Kogi Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has reserved judgment in the petition filed by Prince Abubakar Audu of Action Con gress of Nigeria (ACN) in the December 3, last year’s governorship election.

The tribunal Chairman, Justice Suleiman Ambursa, who made this known in Lokoja yesterday, said the date would be communicated to the parties.

The News Agency of Ni-

geria (NAN) reports the judge reserved the date after hearing the submission and adoption of written addresses by counsel to the petitioners and respondents.

Audu, who is challenging the return of Capt. Idris Wada as the winner of the election by INEC, alleged falsification of results and malpractice among other allegations.

Earlier, the counsel to Wada, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), described the petition as needless, saying that he was confident it would fail.

He said that the petition had no foundation and urged the tribunal to dismiss it.

In his submission, the counsel to the PDP, Mr Chris Uche (SAN), urged the tribunal to strike out the petition, describing it as a “fruitless adventure.”

According to him, the petitioners are merely attacking the outcome of the election but they failed to prove their

case beyond reasonable doubt.

The counsel to INEC, Malam Yusuf Ali (SAN), aligned himself with the submissions of Uche and Fagbemi, saying that the petition lacked merit because it was unsigned and undated.

However, the counsel to the petitioner, Mr Charles Edosomwan (SAN), urged the tribunal to weigh the volume of evidence before it and do justice in the matter.

He said that there was no doubt that his client won the election and had proved that they won the Kogi governorship polls of December 3.

The counsel said that they presented 88 witnesses, who testified in their favour.

NAN reports that Audu among other prayers urged the tribunal to declare him winner of the election having scored the highest number of the lawful votes cast during the election.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

NEWS How my dad was kidnapped, killed after N1m ransom, by Elechi’s ex-aide

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HEN family members of Chief Cletus Nwezza raised the N1 million ransom demanded by his abductors, their hope was to see the man back at home to relive his story. But they got it wrong.

The abductors of the father of former Special Adviser to the Ebonyi State Governor on Information Technology and Communication Mr. Lawrence Nwezza, returned from the kidnappers den to tell the story.

He was killed by his abductors after two weeks in captivity.

According to the former special adviser, the late Nwezza, was abducted on April 6 by some unknown gunmen in his country home - Amewula in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State stated.

He said that the kidnappers shot his father dead and dumped him in a nearby bush at Ezza Ntizi after receiving the N1 million ransom from the family.

Recouncting the incident, the former special adviser said the kidnappers initially asked for N100 million but later agreed to N1 million after negiotiation.

The younger Nwezza described as shocking that his father’s abductors refused to let him go and decided to kill him.

He said: “On the 6th of April 2012 shortly after I was relieved of my appointment as the Special Adviser to the Governor on ICT, my dad

From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

visited me in Abakaliki and went back to the village that same day. The next day, my brother who stays oversees called me asking why our dad was demanding for a huge sum of money. I couldn’t give him any answer because by then, I have not been informed that my dad had been kidnapped.

“Immediately my brother dropped the phone, I put a call across to the village, but my dad’s number and that of my uncles where switched off, I was about giving up when one of our neighbours called to inform me that some gunmen on a motorcycle came to our house and abducted my dad and that since then, they have not seen my him.

“Immediately I finished speaking with him, my phone rang again and the call originated from my dad’s phone. He then informed me that he has been abducted and that we should rally round and provide the money the kidnappers were demanding.

“One of the abductors picked the phone from him and told me that if we still want to see our dad alive, we should get N100 million. Immediately, I got in torch with my brother who works with one of the communication outfit in the country and he monitored the calls and we were able to locate the exact location the call was coming from”.

Nwezza said after getting all the necessary details of the location of the kidnappers,

the family contacted the police who detailed a team to monitor the movement and contacts of the kidnappers.

He said: “As we were negotiating with the kidnappers, we were also informing the police of our negotiation, when we were ready to pay the ransom, we contacted a security expert on the instance of the police commissioner because there was the need to apprehend the hoodlums.

We placed a tracking device on the bag containing the ransom because the kidnappers asked us to drop the ransom along Agba-Ntezi road. When we went there to drop the money, we saw one of them with a bike along the road.

“The bag was programmed for movement alert, so each time the bag is on motion, it indicates where the kidnappers are moving to. So, we kept monitoring the movement of the bag, around 3pm that day, they called to inform us that they would release our dad 30 minutes after we had paid the ransom, shortly after, they called again informing us they would release him the next morning. In the morning we rushed to the village but to our greatest surprise, there was no trace of our dad.

“It was then that the police had to move in to the point of the last point of the tracking device to possibly apprehend the kidnappers, as the police were moving in, some children in the community raised alarm and the kidnappers opened fire on the police, some of hoodlums were apprehended while some escaped.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

47TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING Today Wednesday 9th May, 2012 (18th Jumada Thani, 1433 AH) is the Fourty Seventh (47th) sitting of the Kano State Executive Council in continuation of the previous sittings at which Council deliberated on important policy issues and programmes that impact positively on the quality of lives of our citizenry. Comprehensive records bear it that since inception of its tenure the present administration pursues tangible projects spanning all sectors. This administration puts emphasis on its commitment to deliver on its campaign and inauguration speech promises made by the Chief Executive in the person of Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso whose resolve is provision of good Governance characterized by copious leadership in which prudence and transparency in the utilization of resources are the main guiding principles.

Evidently, the hopes and aspirations of people are being rekindled in the State with an unsurpassed vigour and steady momentum.

The quantity and quality of services provided by Government have improved across all sectors – especially agricultural production, education, road construction/rehabilitation, beautification of urban Kano, etc.

Remember, that the present administration approved for execution an expenditure close to N47 billion from inception of its second tenure and in fourty six (46th) sittings to date. Specifically the total sum ofN534,735,854.89 was approved for release for the execution of projects by the Council in its most recent fourty sixth (46) sitting whose main highlights are as follows; Main highlights of the 46th sitting include: i. Approval for the sum of N44,000,000.00 as tax liabilities against 22 Local Government Councils of the State and the monthly installment payment of N1,000,000.00 against the affected Local Governments until the debt is off-set. ii. The sum of N9,617,944.05 was approved as funds to mount wide publicity for the Lafiya Jari Programme and other empower ment programme to enable the citizenry reap the maximum benefit of these programmes. iii. N5,535,064.23 for the repairs of four (4) generators through direct Labour and purchase of one new 100kva Perkins generator by the Hospital Services Management Board. iv. N15,000,000.00 to facilitate take-off of 100 Zawarawa Marriage Pilot Scheme. v. N3,900,000.00 for sponsoring 26 episodes of one hour radio programmes by the State Sharia Implementation Agencies. vi. N1,818,637.99 for settlement of Daula Hotel outstanding verified trade creditors by Ministry of Commerce. vii. N4,173,866.90 for external and ancillary works at the Common Facility Centre (CFT) Sharada Kano by Ministry of Commerce. viii. N20,000,000.00 as funds for rehabilitation/cleaning of tertiary and secondary drainages and procurement of working tools for casual Labourers by the Ministry of Environment. ix. N33,544,863.50 for conversion of former Bee-Zee-Bee Hotel to Primary Health Care Development Board Headquarters by the Ministry of Health. x. N217,467,099.40 for relocation and construction of the new Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency Complex (Phase 1) by Ministry of Health. xi. N32,129,800.00 for engagement of 250 Youths to be trained as Traffic Assistants by Ministry of Works. xii. N3,090,000.00 for payment of bereaved family allowances by the Office of the Head of Civil Service. xiii. N16,876,620.00 to be paid as compensation of some structures around North-West University Kano by the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning. xiv. N97,650,387.60 for installation of Street lights at Kofar Ruwa – Kofar Mazugal and Masallachin Fagge Round About by the Ministry of Works. xv. N29,931,571.22 for renovation of the former Bank of the North House.

Today’s Council was presided over by the Governor, Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso FNSE during which 8 MDAs submitted a total number of 18 memoranda for deliberation. The Council granted approval for the execution of 13 projects costing a total sum ofN549,106,345.12 they are; 1. Ministry of Planning and Budget: Proposal on the need for the setting up of Kano State Bureau of Statistics; Council deliberated on the proposal submitted by this Ministry on the need for the setting up of Kano State Bureau of Statistics as to compose of the following; i. Field services and Household (FSHI) Department in charge of census, survey and design. ii. Real Sector and Economic Growth (RSEG) Department in charge of agriculture, commerce and Trade, (GDP) Price and Inflation Rate. iii. Research and publication (R and P) Department in charge of research, methodology, plans, co-ordination and statistical publications. iv. Demography and Social Indicators (DSI) Department in charge of system of Administration Statistics (SAS) and Social Indicators such as health education, crime and justice, gender and MDG, etc. v. Administration and General Services Department.

The Agency is to be a parastatal of the Ministry of Planning and Budget reporting to the Honourable Commissioner. So, Council considered the proposal and directed the Attorney General/Hon. Commissioner for Justice to study the proposal and submit his findings to it at the next meeting.

Kano citizens are aware that various parastatals or agencies were conceived and established by the present Administration in its zeal to impact positively on the lives of the good people of Kano. Among these agencies are Primary Health Care Development Agency, State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SAKA) and Kano State Road Management Agency (KAROMA).

2. Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Culture & Tourism Need for the establishment of a new Exhibition Centre; Council acknowledges receipt of the memorandum that communicates outcome of the visit of the Honourable Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation on 22nd March, 2012. Decisions taken include; i. Directing the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to earmark the approved 2 hecters of land at an appropriate location for the establishment of the new exhibition centre. ii. Directing the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to effect the restoration of the City gate (Kofar Na’isa). iii. Directing the Head of Civil Service to, in conjunction with Ministries of Information and Commerce examine the possibility of excising culture to Ministry of Commerce from Ministry of Information as operates at Federal level.

This gesture endorses the status of Kano State on Nigeria’s Tourism map adding to the number of available monuments such as the Gidan Makama, Kano traditional city wall, Kofar Mata dyeing pits, the Emir’s Palace etc. all of which are attractive to tourists who come to the State and spend hard currency on artifacts and patronizing hospitality facilities from which government collects taxes which improves its revenue generation capacity.

3. Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

The memoranda submitted under the auspices of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government were deliberated as follows; a. Request for the recruitment/deployment of personnel to facilitate effective take-off of the Hospitality and Tourism Institute at its temporary site at the Tourist Camp and provision of funds to facilitate advertisement for employment vacancies:Council considers its commitment to the project of converting Daula Hotel to an International standard Hospitality and Tourism Institute and is aware of the need to recruit suitable and appropriate number of personnel for its successful take-off. As such, Council approved the immediate posting of required staff for the take-off of the institute, which should comprise sixteen (16) part time instructors, eight (8) technicians/production assistants, one (1) typist/secretary, one (1) store keeper, one (1) driver and four (4) cleaners while one (1) Assistant Director of Studies is to be re-deployed from the Tourist Camp and one (1) Accountant is to be re-deployed from the Office of the Accountant General. Again, Council approved the release of the requested sum of N507,375.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to facilitate settlement of advertisement placement. b.

Request for funds as grant to the State Water Board to be used for the procurement of diesel to power Challawa and Tamburawa Water treatment plants.

Council noted the appeal and took cognizance of the facts that the State Water Board has not been integrated into the central diesel procurement process and its income can not accommodate the expenditure of procuring the continuously required diesel to power the machines at the Water treatment plants referred. Presently (hot/dry season) water demand increases while electricity (power) supply from PHCN is more erratic.

Government used to grant the sum of N32,000,000.00 to the Board for this purpose but to do so since December 2011.

This appeal prompts the Council to approve restoration of the grant to the tune of N30,000,000.00 to be released to the Ministry of Water Resources to enable the State Water Board to procure diesel for use at Challawa and Tamburuwa Water treatment plants for at least five (5) months (March – July, 2012) covering the hot season during which demand for water is at its peak. Government is alert and willing to solve all issues related to water and such characteristic efforts can be seen in improved service provided by the Ministry of Water Resources generally. In fact, since inception this administration has expended more than N4.5 billion on the provision of water to the citizenry. This is yielding the required result. c.

Request for funds to conduct the annual final year students’ Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMB) by Ministry of Higher Education:Council approves release of the requested sum of N9,432,500.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for onward payment to the Ministry for Higher Education to enable the Kano State College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies conduct 2011/2012 IJMB examinations scheduled for 15th – 31st May, 2012. The money is for the conduct, marking and processing of examination papers of 550 Kano State indigene students of the school. Importantly, performance in this examination gives access to the students to further their education especially at first degree level in Nigerian Universities.

The gesture is only a drop in the sea when compared to the intervention endeavors provided by the present administration on education at all levels be it basic, intermediate or tertiary. Completely new primary or basic education schools, senior secondary schools, university, etc have been established while existing ones are renovated. Activities of the CRCS across the State, establishment of the Governor’s College, establishment of North-West University, etc herald Government’s efforts in this direction. Again, Government continues to pay registration fees for external examination of the WAEC and NECO types as well as the internal examinations of the KERD and AIED types for female students.

Request for funds to effect payment of sitting allowances for the co-ordinating committee on the establishment of Informatics Institute for the period of July, 2011 to February 2012:-ive The sum of N1,200,000.00 was approved for release to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to effect payment of eight (8) months (July 2011 to February 2012) sitting allowances for five (5) committee members on the establishment of the Informatics Institute at the respective sum of N30,000.00 x 8 = N240,000.00. And, N240,000.00 x 5 = N1,200,000.00. Council is conscious of its statutory obligations. This committee was setup to see to the establishment of the Institute. The Institute has more than 200

students and has now conducted admission examination for another 200.

Providing computer education is one of the priorities of this administration.

4. Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport This Ministry submitted three (2) memoranda on projects for consideration and deliberation by the Council. They include; a. Request for funds for the construction of Gate-House and wall fence at School of Environmental Studies Gwarzo :The sum of N19,268,366.60 was approved for release by the Council to the Ministry of Works to enable it undertake construction of a functional Gate - House and Wall fence to replace the dilapidated boundary wall structures at the School of Environmental Studies Gwarzo. The administration has expended over N20 million for the rehabilitation and tiling of the school at its previous sitting. Security provision for Government properties as well as protection of lives is paramount to this administraRabi’u Musa Kwankawaso tion as can be seen elsewhere. For example the construction of the wall fence at Aminu Kano College of Islamic Legal Studies and reconstruction of wall fence at Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso. b. Request for funds to execute renovation works at Governor’s Lodge Sultan Road, Kaduna:Council noted the need for the renovation and upgrading of the facilities as well as replacement of some items in the lodge so as to bring it up to befitting standards. So, the release of the sum ofN9,198.108.52 was approved by the Council to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to enable it execute the renovation work so as to provide befitting refuge for the State’s Chief Executive and other officials whenever he/they happen(s) to need its usage.

5. Ministry of Land and Physical Planning Request for funds for the construction of Kurna Link Road 2:The Council acknowledges receipt of the follow-up memorandum on the construction of Kurna Link Road 2 considered and deliberated on its contents as calling attention to the vital need for the project essentially required to open up the southern end of the neighborhood for easier approach to Katsina Road. This infrastructural intervention is certainly in consonance with the present administration’s drive to providing facilities that positively impact on people’s lives. So, release of the total sum of N10,954,859.00 was approved by the Council to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to execute the entire project thus: N6,829,059.47 for KNUPDA to carryout the work of clearance, lateritic filling of unsuitable material and provision of sub-base and base.

N4,125,800.00 for the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to facilitate payment of compensation for the affected farm land and economic trees.

Total = N10,954,859.47 This Government has expended more than N30 billion on the construction and rehabilitation of roads throughout the State. The Government has for example approved the expansion of Zaria, Hadejia, Gwarzo and Shiek Jafar roads at its previous meeting.

6. Office of the Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner for Local Government.

One (1) issue under the auspices of the Office of the Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner for Local Governments was submitted for deliberation by the Council as follows; Request for funds to settle 30% deposit in respect of 2012 intending pilgrims’ accommodation at Makkah, Saudia Arabia:A memorandum on the referred issue was submitted by the Office of the Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner for Local Government for consideration and deliberation by the Council which noted that nine (9) houses have been booked for the purpose of accommodating pilgrims of Kano State for the year 2012 at Makkah and 30% down payment is required to actualize the purpose. This translates toN326,228,280.00 which is equivalent to 7,482,300 Saudi Riyals or (7,482,300 x N43.60) for 7,126 pilgrims at 3,500 Saudi Riyals per head. Council did not hesitate to approve the immediate release of the requested sum to the Office of the Deputy Governor to actualize the expected 30% down payment. Pilgrimage is a religious obligation to the capable and Council considers it obligatory and in fulfillment of its duties to do everything possible for the smooth conduct of the entire process. The nine (9) booked houses are of good quality and in close vicinity to the Ka’abah.

7. Ministry of Health Request for funds to procure required equipment for Accident and Emergency Unit of the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano :The alert and observant Council noted contents of the referred memorandum and considered it to be asking for a means to continue with an already started project on Landscaping/Interlocking and general rehabilitation work at the Accident and Emergency Unit of the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital. Work is at 95% level awaiting completion. What remain are furnishing and equipping for which the Council approves the release of the requested sum ofN20,801,760.00 to be expended as phase II of the entire project.

Phase I has already utilized the approved sum of N22,373,119.77. Council sees this project worthy of its attention for the fact that the entire Hospital is among the Government’s priorities in the health sector. Emergency Unit is among the most utilized by the populace. Clearly the present administration provides for the health sector in all ramifications from inception of its second tenure to date as heralded by the Lafiya Jari programme, purchase and conversion of Bee Zee Bee Hotel to the Head quarters of the Primary Health care Agency, relocation and construction of the new Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency Complex (Phase 1) etc.

8. Ministry of Water Resources.

Two (2) issues (projects) were submitted by the Ministry of Water Resources for consideration and deliberation by the Council as follows:a. Request for funds for the purchase of Raw Water pumps spare parts for use at Tamburawa Water treatment plant.

The Council was informed of the need to have spare parts in stock for use whenever required which is usually on emergency basis as repairs and need for overhauls come without warning. To safeguard the Tamburawa water treatment plant, Council approved release of the requested sum of N44,893,696.00 to the Water Resources Ministry to purchase the required spare parts as stock for use when required. The gesture is typical of the present administration on issues to do with water harnessing and effective supply. Likewise, quality of the water from Government supply sources is ensured to be of the best in comparison to international standards as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Government does not relent in its efforts at purchasing diesel to power the generators at water treatment plants and chemicals for the treatment of raw water by the plants.

Request for funds for the procurement of new Raw Water pumps:The observant Council noted the need to replace the six (6) old and worn out raw water pumps at Challawa Raw Water intakes. The replacement is to ensure efficient delivery of raw water to the treatment plants to check the already procured and installed eight new raw water pumps at the intakes. Council approved release of the requested sum of N76,621,400.00 to the Ministry of Water Resources to procure the raw water pumps required so as to ensure steady supply of raw water to the treatment plants from which treated water is supplied to the State.

Progress Report: The general public is aware that, it is the tradition of the Kano State Executive Council to, at every sitting, flash back on approvals granted and resolutions reached in respect of various requests received from State Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) during its previous meetings, with the aim of appraising the level of progress made in executing the projects, programmes and policies. It is in the same vein that, today the esteemed Council noted the progress recorded on such as follows:Ministry of Commerce: Participation of Kano State in Kaduna Trade Fair; The Kano State Executive Council noted the State participation in recently concluded 33rd Round of Kaduna Trade Fair during which the State performed very well as witnessed by the participants and organizers.

Sensitization Programme on Paying Zakkat; Noted by Council today also is the giant stride being undertaking by the Ministry of Commerce in liaison with Zakkat and Hubsi Commission to form a sensitization forum on the importance of paying Zakkat by wealthy individuals which in turn would lead to socio-economic development of the State.

Ministry of Water Resources; You may recall that during its last two sitting, Council noted with appreciation that the 1000 diameters and 600mm pipes approved to be laid from Watari to Kano and Bagwai to Miltara respectively are already in Lagos State and would soon be conveyed to Kano for the execution of the work. In the same direction, today the Council noted that Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources had led a delegation of experts to Lagos State for physical inspection of the pipes before their conveyance.

Office of the Secretary to the State Government; Progress of the activities of the Committee on Qur’anic and Islamiyya Schools was noted by Council today, especially in the area of registering a total number of 1,324 schools so far and the articulation of some strategies for proper coordination. Council re-iterates its commitments for the support of these schools and education in general to uplift the State.

Ministry of Information; Council was briefed by the Hon. Commissioner of Information on kick starting the present Administration’s one year anniversary in Office showcasing the activities and achievements of the present Administration which impact positively on the wellbeing of the entire State’s citizens.

d.

The Commissioner also reported to Council that the State is currently participating in the annual Zuma Film Festival holding in Abuja. The State is represented by the Kano State Film Censorship Board under the Ministry.

Umar Faruk Jibril (PhD), Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Youths, Sports and Culture.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

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www.thenationonlineng.net

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 7,

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Dialoguing towards security?

•Obasanjo

tiate forums for exchange of ideas on the matter and for individuals that volunteer opinions on the matter.

In one such forum a couple of days ago, former president Olusegun Obasanjo zeroed in on ignorance as the major culprit in the promotion of insecurity and to combat the culprit, he suggested dialogue. To be sure, Obasanjo is not so naïve as to identify only one cause. He pointed accusing fingers at a bunch of factors including poverty, unemployment, religious intolerance, ethnic rivalry, growing acculturation and resource control agitation. On all counts, I think the former president is right on target. The problem is not in the identification of factors; it is in the matter of where the emphasis is laid.

To start with religious intolerance, it seems clear that to deny this as a factor is to play the ostrich in the matter of cause and effect. On January 2, a few days after the Christmas day bombing, CNN reported that Islamic militants had warned Christians to leave the North and Muslims to leave the South to avoid counter attack. It was unclear how the sect expected

RIPPLES ARMY PROMISES TO STAMP OUT BOKO HARAM-News

...on PAPER

NO. 2,122

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

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HAT the Federal Government is overwhelmed by the challenge of insecurity of lives and property is an understatement. Even when it’s unclear what effective steps it has taken, short of the annoying repetition of assurances and reassurances as the bombs keep exploding, we are still being told, and reassured, that the days of the bombers are numbered. This may be true, indeed.

Afterall, there is a long-term strategy which, as we were told about a year ago, had been put in place by security agencies. In “Slouching towards Hades”, I referenced that strategy as follows: “The Nation also reported that “(A) Long Term National Security Strategy will take off from next year” and “(All) modalities are being worked out.” If we were a grateful lot, I guess we would thank the Federal Government for this initiative of having a long-term national security policy that would take effect in a year. But we are ingrates, aren’t we?

That is why we can still be so critical of the benevolence of our government. After all do we expect terrorists to bomb all us out of existence before the “long-term national security policy” takes off in a year?”

As the reader may now appreciate, I wasn’t being too hard on us when I referred to those of us complaining as “ingrates.” See, terrorists have not succeeded in bombing “all of us out of existence”, and the “long-term national security policy” is yet to take off. And we cannot complain about any notion of tardiness on the part of government without meriting the charge of typically notoriously impatient citizens. Even in the matter of insecurity, we must be reasonable and exercise patience.

Government is acting, even if the bombers appear to be having a field day. For instance, when the bombers struck again on Christmas day killing at least 42 people, the President declared a state of emergency in parts of the north and closed the borders with Chad, Niger Republic, and Cameroon. A special counter-terrorism force was also set up. Those were tough actions. Then a few weeks later, the bombers struck again. And the President announced further actions, this time reassuring the nation that we will overcome.

With the bombers calling the bluff of government, with innocent citizens losing life and limb on a regular basis, with foreign investment staying off our borders, reasonable men and women, including leaders of thought, cannot afford to be silent. Those who have invested their brain and brawn in Project Nigeria cannot stand by when it is being consumed in the cauldron of terror. This is why we must give credit to organisations that ini-

TOMORROW IN THE NATION ‘If the President must know, he is the one distracting Nigerians with promises of solutions he knows he does not have to the myriad of problems confronting the nation. Time and time again, he has raised our hopes to high heavens only to dash them and leave us stranded and miserable.

VINCENT AKANMODE

‘What afflicts us in the matter of insecurity then can be objectively identified and addressed if the political will is there. Deal with the rot in the educational system, and you will take care of unemployment and poverty’ this to be carried out but it goes to show that the question of religious intolerance is a serious factor and the former president’s thinking on the matter is unassailable. We can say the same about ethnic rivalry and resource control agitation.

Where the former president appears to me to go off target is in his proposal of dialogue as the solution. To be fair, it should be noted that Obasanjo’s advancement of dialogue as the solution is on account of his identification of ignorance as the “most critical” of the factors of insecurity. If it is ignorance, it makes sense to dialogue. So, two questions arise.

First, is ignorance the most critical of the factors responsible for insecurity? If so, is dialogue the solution?If not, what other factor is most critical and what is the solution?

Note that Boko Haram is only the latest, and certainly not the only actor, and perhaps not the last, in the field of insecurity in this country. But are the sect members victims of ignorance? If so, are they ignorant of the beliefs of other citizens? Obviously not. It is not unreasonable to imagine that some of them

HARDBALL

A

DAY after ECOWAS mediators led by Burkina Faso agreed to a cohabitation (some say diarchical) arrangement between the coup leaders who overthrew the outgoing government of former President Amadou Toumani Toure in March and an interim government led by Prime Minister, Cheick Modibo Diara, this column, writing under the headline, Sense and nonsense in Mali on April 9, warned that regional leaders were letting loose a contrapuntal paramountcy demon that would undermine peace and security in the region in the medium to long run. It warned that Nigeria should never be party to the deal, but that it should instead use its influential muscle to ensure that the region stood firm against the putschists.

Some two weeks after the interim contraption took effect, however, elements loyal to the former president attempted a countercoup. It failed, but there remain signs that the bitterness that arose as a result of the March coup has not been placated.

In the April 9 Hardball, this column wrote: “It is unlikely that the regional bloc will be influenced by any fanciful consideration of democracy in its efforts to heal the Malian rift and end the Azawad declaration of independence, a declaration the world has rejected, with France even promising to support any military effort by ECOWAS to reclaim territories captured by Tuareg rebels.

The deal with the coupists has also sadly already led to the formal resignation of President Toure who seemed relieved that the nightmare was about

Hardball was right on Mali to end. Malians themselves have exulted that a deal was secured and life would return to some normality. And ECOWAS appeared satisfied that a crazy incident would be resolved rather more quickly than they dared to hope after the coup was staged.

But none of these considerations make the nonsensical deal any more tolerable than the original coup itself or the Azawad rebellion. If the regional bloc had persevered, the coup leaders would still have buckled under sanctions sooner rather than later. More importantly, if the coup leaders were forced out and prosecuted, it would have sent a much more enduring message to all of West Africa and even the continent as a whole that military intervention would no longer be accepted under any guise. ECOWAS has once again lost a unique opportunity to reaffirm its appreciation of democracy and its commitment to its high and lofty ideals, and this failure can be put down to the dearth of statesmen and leaders with the requisite character required to lift the continent into the 21st century. This deal, though expedient, is regrettable, poorly considered, foolish and shortsighted. It will engender peace in the short run, but the regional bloc will rue its misses and folly in the long run.”

Now, it is clear to all, as Hardball warned, that the putschists have no intention of re-

know the Holy Bible inside out. It is the content of this knowledge and their understanding of the tenets of their own religion that they find incompatible. But this is not strange.

Christians who are familiar with the Holy Koran find it incompatible with the tenets of their religion. This should not drive anyone, Christians or Muslims, to acts of terror. And gone are the days when some sections of the country are ignorant of the humanity of other sections. I sincerely hope that no one section still sees any other group as cannibals. We have had an explosion of blossoming intersectional marriages over the last several decades. So unless the former president means something else by “ignorance”, I am not sure that it is the most critical factor.

Among the other factors identified by Chief Obasanjo, poverty and unemployment are crucial for the understanding of and resolving the challenge of insecurity. I am sure that all the holy books speak to the fact that the devil finds work for the idle hand. A gainfully employed citizen will most probably be the last to volunteer as a suicide bomber. The reason is clear; he has something to look up to, a future that is worth waiting upon, a dream that is worth entertaining. He or she will not succumb to a tempting proposal of N50, 000 in exchange for serving as a bomb courier because poverty does not stare him in the face and he can imagine making multiples of that amount over a life time.

But a sound education is the most efficient means to gainful employment and escape from the claws of poverty. It is what promotes the kinds of values that Chief Obasanjo referred to as the core of our social life “in the days of yore.” It is not only Western education. The education of the whole person, what the Yoruba refer to as Omoluabi, is what prepares one for peaceful living with neighbours with who we may not share a common language or religion. It is what makes us see others as fellow human beings. But what prevents us from emphasising this in contemporary “dog eat dog” societies is the same ailment that prevents our political institutions and public officials from considering the importance of education for life as the basis of a common peaceful coexistence among citizens.

What afflicts us in the matter of insecurity then can be objectively identified and addressed if the political will is there. Deal with the rot in the educational system, and you will take care of unemployment and poverty. Educated citizens will choose dialogue over confrontation because they know that with the latter, they have a lot to lose.

•For comments, send SMS to 08057634061

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above linquishing real power, with the interim prime minister even reading a pathetic television speech early May in which he justifies the presence of the coup leaders and their troops. It reminds us of the Biblical parable of putting new wine in old wineskin, an act that ineluctably results in the breaking of the old wineskin. It is hard to see the Mali situation improving soon. In view of the failed countercoup and the unsettling aftermath, the country will be unable to face the Tuareg revolt in the North, while it continues to battle internal dissidents in Bamako, the capital.

ECOWAS sanctions were on the verge of pushing out the coupists, but for strange reasons, regional leaders failed to exercise the patience required to see the hapless country overcome its seething problem. Hardball will venture to make one more prediction: The Tuareg rebels, many of whom fought on the side of Muammar Gaddafi during the Libyan revolt, will continue to consolidate their secessionist victory; and Bamako itself will continue to roll from one destabilising mutiny to another until the regional bloc takes the only sensible option left of ridding Bamako of the coup leaders and organising elections under the interim government. The region failed former President Toure in March by negotiating with treasonable soldiers; it should not make the mistake of indulging the increasingly influential Captain Sanogo whose appetite for power is whetted by every victory he secures over counter-coup forces.

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