May 16, 2014

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TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

EKITI 2014 Reps okay emergency extension

N150.00

•PDP, APC campaign groups bicker over N1.4b contract •Fayemi is unstoppable, says PDP defector •AND MORE ON PAGE 8 •Bamidele: I’ll make pension payment first line charge

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OR about two and a half hours, Service Chiefs met members of the House of Representatives yesterday to defend why the emergency rule in three states should be extended.

They said without the sixmonth extension, the United States and other Allied Forces cannot operate freely to rescue the 276 abduct-

•Senate defers decision From Yusuf Alli, Victor Oluwasegun and Sanni Onog, Abuja

ed girls.

Also, they confirmed that National Security Adviser Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd.) and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Air Marshal Alex Badeh had gone to France for a strategic meeting on how to rescue the Chi-

bok girls whose abduction on April 15 has sparked a global outrage.

The Service Chiefs had a closed-door session with members of the House on whether or not to extend emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.

They held Speaker Aminu Continued on page 4

•From left: The CEO/Chairman, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala and the Acting Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Alhaji Kabir Mashi at the FIRS Stakeholders Engagement Forum in Lagos…yesterday

Governor: Fed Govt played politics with girls’ abduction It’s not true, says govt ACF alleges agenda Jonathan for Chibok

By Wale Ajetunmobi and Frank Ikpefan, Abuja ORNO State Governor Kashim Shettima indicted the Federal Government last night for what he called its slow response to the kidnap of the 276 Chibok schoolgirls.

According to him, the government was politicising the April 15 incident when a timely action was required. The global outcry over the incident forced the Federal Government to begin the search for the girls, who were abducted

by Boko Haram insurgents, he said.

Shettima spoke to CNN’s WHERE ARE Christine Amapour in LonTHE CHIBOK don. With him was All Progressives Congress (APC) GIRLS KIDNAPPED Women Leader Sharon ON APRIL 15?

B

?

Continued on page 4

•A pupil who escaped from the abductors’ vehicle identifying her colleagues in the Boko Haram video during a review at the Government House in Maiduguri, Borno State •SEE ALSO PAGES 2-5

•HUMAN TRAFFICKER HELD IN JOS P58 •GUNMEN ATTACK BAUCHI VILLAGE P58

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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NEWS CHIBOK GIRLS’ ABDUCTION

U.S.: Freeing F

•From left: President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Ag. Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr Kabir Mashi; Managing Director, Nigeria LNG, Mr Babs Omotowa; Director-General, Nigeria Economy Summit Group, Mr Frank Nweke Jnr. and Coordinating Director, FIRS, Queensly Seghosime, at the FIRS Stakeholders Engagement Forum in Lagos...yesterday.

•Minister of Communication Technology, Mrs Omobola Johnson (left) speaking at a news conference on the 2014 World Telecommunication and Information Society Day in Abuja...yesterday. With her are ; Director, E-government, Mr Tope Fashedemi and Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency, Prof. Peter Jack.

• From left: MD/CEO, Crospil ,Ben Eboh , Marketing Director, Nigerite Limited, Toyin Gbede, CEO, Hotel Partner Africa, Mr. Vernon Page and MD/CEO, AIM Group, Amine Moussali during the Lagos Architects Forum in Lagos.

•From left: Vice-President, Somotex Nigeria Limited, Ajay Singh; Chief Executive Officer, Fuel Communications, Tunji Abioye and Country General Manager, Midea, Mr Aaron Zhang at the Somotex Dealer's Conference in Lagos.

REEING the over 200 girls from Boko Haram is now one of the U.S. government's top priorities, U.S. officials declared yesterday, issuing alarming warnings about the militant group's expanding reach and growing capacity for more sophisticated and deadlier terror attacks.

Robert Jackson, a State Department specialist on Africa, said that Boko Haram "has no regard for human life."

He said the Obama administration was boosting Nigeria's intelligence and law enforcement capabilities, while seeking global sanctions on Boko Haram at the United Nations.

The girls' abduction last month from a school in the remote Nigerian town of Chibok triggered global outrage.

The extremist Islamist militants have threatened to sell the girls into slavery.

"Resolving this crisis is now one of the highest priorities of the U.S. government," Jackson told a Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee. Boko Haram, he said, "has been killing innocent people in Nigeria for some time, and the attack at Chibok is part of that long, terrible trend." The group has killed more than 1,000 people this year in attacks on schools, churches and mosques, and now poses a growing threat to neighboring Cameroon, he added.

Testifying alongside Jackson, Alice Friend, the Defense Department's principal director for Africa, said Boko Haram was becoming more dangerous by the day.

The group has proven it is "capable of directly and successfully engaging Nigeria's armed forces," she said.

"In general, Nigeria has failed to mount an effective campaign against Boko Haram," Friend told the panel.

"In the face of a new and more sophisticated threat than it has faced before, its security forces have been slow to adapt with new strategies, new doctrines and new tactics." She said Nigeria's own record of atrocities committed by security forces fighting Boko Haram is "even more troubling."

Friend said the U.S. has a number of programs to help Nigeria's counterterrorism efforts. These include operations to snuff out bomb plots and provide better coordination between civilian leaders and the military. The U.S. also is trying to foster a regional approach that involves greater cooperation with neighbors Chad, Niger and Cameroon.

Jackson said an 18-member U.S. team began working in Nigeria earlier this week to provide law enforcement and intelligence assistance. The effort includes manned plane flights and drones. He said the administration was urging Nigeria to better protect human rights as it fights terrorism.

America, in a factsheet on Wednesday, said it would ensure the insurgents are brought to justice.

The factsheet reads: “The U.S. and Nigeria also work closely together in multilateral fora, including the UN Security Council, where Nigeria is serving a term as a non-permanent member for 2014-2015.

“As the President noted in his National Defense University speech in May 2013, countering terrorism requires a holistic approach. We continue to work with Nigeria and other international partners to help promote and support such an approach to Boko Haram. The United States has been working to counter BH for many years, and we will continue to do so.”

On the counterterrorism assistance to the country, the factsheet noted: “Counterterrorism support to Nigeria focuses on building critical counterterrorism capabilities among Nigeria’s civilian and law enforcement agencies. This supports the larger U.S. objective of encouraging Nigeria to develop and implement a comprehen-

LA GOS : •LA LAGOS Children in Makoko, a Lagos suburb, joining the Bring-BackThe-Girls campaign... yesterday.

sive approach to counter BH that upholds and enforces the rule of law, provides civilian protection, respects human rights and international norms, and addresses the underlying grievances that BH exploits (including through development gains and through responsive governance).

“Based on our longstanding concerns about Boko Haram, we have a robust security dialogue and assistance relationship with Nigeria. As part of the Bi-National Commission Framework, we hold regular Regional Security working group meetings focused on the Boko Haram threat and ways our two governments can collaborate on a holistic approach to countering the group.

“Our security assistance is in line with our efforts to ensure Nigeria takes a comprehensive approach to countering Boko Haram. We are working to build Nigerian law enforcement capacities to investigate terrorism cases, effectively deal with explosive devices, and secure Nigeria’s borders, while underscoring that the most effective counterterrorism policies and practices are those that respect human rights and are underpinned by the rule of law. We are also focused on enabling various Nigerian security services with fusing multiple information streams to develop a better understanding of Boko Haram. Our military assistance supports the professionalisation of key military units and improves their ability to plan and implement appropriate steps to counter Boko Haram and ensure civilian security.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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CHIBOK GIRLS’ ABDUCTION

g Chibok girls is our priority Girls’ abduction unacceptable, says UN

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•From left: VicePresident, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Issa Aremu, President, Women Arise, Dr Joe OkeiOdumakin, former Kaduna State Governor Balarabe Musa and NLC members during NLC's rally calling for the release of the Chibok girls.

PHOTO: NAN

Jonathan to visit Chibok today •Counterterrorism summit holds in Paris

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan will today visit Chibok, Borno State where over 200 schoolgirls were abducted over a month ago by Boko Haram. The girls were kidnapped on April 15.

It will be Jonathan's first visit to Chibok since the kidnappings. He will later in the day travel to Paris for a regional security summit.

Jonathan is under pressure to crush the rebels, who have killed thousands in their campaign for an Islamist state, and to free the girls, whose kidnapping has sparked global outrage.

The president has come under criticism for its slow response to the abductions.

Jonathan asked France last week to arrange a Paris security summit with neighbours Chad, Cameroon, Niger and Benin, and officials from the U.S., Britain and the European Union to discuss a coordinated response.

The summit is convened by President Francois Hollande to discuss fresh strategies for dealing with the security threat posed by Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in West and Central Africa.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President will be joined at the summit by Heads of State and Government of Benin Republic, Cameroon, Niger and Chad.

It reads: "It is also expected that Britain, the United States of America and the European Union will be represented at the talks which will give special attention to the coordination and intensification of efforts to curtail the destabilizing activities of Boko Haram in Nigeria and neighbouring countries in the wake of the recent abduction of college girls from Chibok, Borno

•Jonathan From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

State."

He will be accompanied to France by the Minister of Defence, Lt-Gen. Aliyu Gusau (rtd.), the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd.) and other principal aides and advisers, Jonathan will return to Abuja at the conclusion of the summit on Saturday.

HE Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for West Africa, Said Djinnit, has said the abduction of over 200 girls in Chibok, Borno State is unacceptable.

In a statement yesterday after concluding a four-day visit to Nigeria, he said: "I am concluding today a four day visit to Nigeria. My visit is as a follow up to a telephone conversation between the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-moon and President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday 8 May. During their conversation, President Goodluck Jonathan welcomed the decision of the Secretary General to send a High Representative to Nigeria to consult with Government officials on what the UN can do to support ongoing efforts towards the safe release of the abducted girls.

"I met with President Goodluck Jonathan and other senior Government officials including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Defence and the Minister of Justice and Attorney General. I also met with the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on the abducted girls, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). I met also with the Ambassadors of countries that have offered assistance in support of Nigeria's efforts to release the abducted girls.

"The abduction of the school girls in Chibok on 14 April has been widely condemned by the United Nations including the Secretary General and the UN Security Council. I wish to reiterate the strong condemnation by the United Nations of this unacceptable act of abduction of innocent girls.

"I wish to reiterate the United Nations' solidarity with the abducted schoolgirls and their families, the people and Government of Nigeria.

"The UN is committed to do its utmost within its capacity to assist the authorities of Nigeria in their efforts towards the release of the school girls "As part of its assistance, the United Nations has initiated the preparation of an Integrated Support Package that includes immediate support to the affected families, the population and the girls after their release, in particular with psycho-social counseling and facilitation of their reintegration in families and communities. The package will also include response to emergency needs both in food and nonfood items; early recovery support by promoting alternative livelihood and activities geared towards addressing the long term structural challenges through capacity building.

"On the security situation, I expressed the United Nation's deep concern at the lingering insecurity in the North East part of Nigeria. I expressed the support of the United Nations to the efforts of Nigeria to restore security in the affected areas while stressing the importance of due respect for Human Rights. I also reaffirmed the United Nation's support to Nigeria within the framework of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

"I also expressed concern at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in North-East including the dire situation of IDP's. In this regard, I offered the support of the United Nation to the Government and NEMA in reinforcing the response capacity especially through enhanced coordination. I urged also for improved access for delivery of the much needed humanitarian assistance."

Senator proffers solution to terrorism

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HE Chairman of Senate Committee on cCmmunications, Gilbert Nnaji, has advocated the use of Information and Communication Technology as an effective means of fighting terrorism. He called for the organisation of a retreat of ICT and security experts.

He said the retreat would present a platform “where ideas can be shared on the available current and potent technology to deploy to stem the tide of insecurity”.

He spoke at the 2014 Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Budget Defence Meeting at the National Assembly.

Nnaji also expressed concern over the slow pace of the NCC’s broadband deployment.

He said: “Broadband, obviously, is the next level of Nigeria’s telecoms revolution. The fact that our nation has little access to broadband services, even with the number of undersea cables running across the country, is worrisome. Though we are a global example in the telecoms milieu, we still lag behind in terms of broadband and internet penetration. If the aim of achieving national connectivity is to be realised, then there is need for a sustained effort by the Commission to speed up its fibre optic programmes and projects especially the State Accelerated Broadband Initiative, SABI.” The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Eugene Juwah while responding noted that “ fully cognisant of the fact that all MDAs are mandated to

ensure that their individual organisational strategic focus ties in with Nigeria’s Vision 20:2020 and in the medium term, with the National Transformation Agenda 2011-2015, as articulated by Mr. President, the Commission is working to ensure that, this forms the bedrock of our strategic focus 2012-2015"; and further pointed out that “the policy thrust of the Commission for the 2014 budget is still derived from the Strategic focus of the commission 2012-2015 which include among others: ensure improvement in the quality of service across networks, to provide an enabling environment for nationwide fibre optic transmission infrastructure to facilitate upgrading of information and communications technological structures in the country, increase in broadband access nationwide with a view to applying the open access model (OAM) of infrastructure development, qualitative regulations/compliance monitoring and enforcement, development of enabling environment for secure information security that will promote integrity of e-transaction”. He added that “ NCC is projecting Revenue of N54.4billion out of which recurrent expenditure of N14.8 billion with capital and special expenditure of N15.8 billion, while the sum of N8.4 billion will be transferred to the Universal Service Provision Fund. N7.4 billion and N8.0 billion representing spectrum fees and operating surplus respectively will be transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria”.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

NEWS Shooting: Army redeploys GOC

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HE military explained yesterday the shooting at the Maimalari Barracks in Maiduguri, the troubled Borno State capital.

It denied that Maiduguri had become a boiling point as a result of insurrection by troops.

Some soldiers of the 7 Division in the city on Wednesday fired shots as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major. Gen. Ahmed Muhammed was addressing the troops.

The GOC has been redeployed.

The Defence Headquarters issued a statement in Abuja signed by Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, the Defence spokesman, who also addressed reporters in Maidug-

•From left: The CEO/Chairman, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the Acting Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Alhaji Kabir Mashi at the FIRS Stakeholders Engagement Forum in Lagos…yesterday

Governor: Fed Govt played politics with girls’ abduction Continued from page 1

is out of the context. If it means talking to the devil…if Mr devil can come down and we can get back our girls.

The governor, who has been criticised for observing that the insurgents are better motivated and equipped than soldiers, spoke of how he warned the Federal Government of the impending danger.

His words: “…And the fact in all these things is that, three years ago, I was repeatedly telling them that before long, that this is not a minor problem, that if it is not handled with tact and care, it is capable of metamorphosing into a conflagration that might consume the whole north. But the Federal Government was deaf, dumb and blind to the reality.

“We need a holistic approach to solve the issue; military approach is not the only option because Boko Haram is a phenomenon grown out of social exclusivity, poverty, hunger, joblessness, hopelessness, illiteracy… These are very dangerous cocktail or mixture that can really explode anywhere.”

Does he believe the girls

would be found? Shettima said: “I am an optimist. I believe that they would be found and this is one thing that is agitating the mind of everybody… Believe me, we are working assiduously; we are getting information and anytime we get information, we relay it to the military for them to take it to the next level. Certainly, we got some information two, three days ago and we obliged them (military) with the information we got; and we are working with the local communities because we have a very robust platform of local people, who have been sensitised to report to us any unusual movement, be it of vehicular or human traffic.

And they are doing a good job.

“We have gone out of our way to assure them (parents) and we are partnering with the military to provide adequate security and we are buying into this school programme championed by Gordon Brown, so that our schools can be better secured.

I have to thank the global community for bringing the whole issue on the spotlight.”

On the allegations by Shtetima that the Federal Government was playing politics with the mass abduction, Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) Mr. Mike Omeri, in a telephone conversation with our correspondent, said: “Let me say that since the beginning of this abduction saga, not a single government official has accused anyone of playing politics with the matter. We are not going to take up issues with them. What is paramount for this government and the President is to see to the rescue of the girls alive.

“Those playing politics with the matter know themselves and they are the ones shouting loudest. The President will be visiting Chibok to assess things for himself and I’m sure everyone now knows the level of his commitment to ensuring an early resolution of this matter. How can a leader of a party and governor of a state accuse the President of playing politics with the lives of Nigerians? To what end?”

Speaking also on CNN yesterday in Abuja, Omeri said the government was open to

dialogue as against negotiating the release of the girls by swapping them with Boko Haram prisoners.

He said the government was moving troops into the Sambisa forest.

Omeri said he was not in the position to give details about the movement of troops into the forest.

He also said the government was on the right track to rescue the abducted girls.

Omeri said: “The results are slow in coming. There is national attention and energy directed to make sure that our beloved children are returned to us and reunited with the rest of Nigerians so we can continue to do the things that we normally do.

“The government has mobilised sufficiently and in collaboration with partners, more initiative and strategy is been deployed.

“Money? Are they for sale?

We will amicably find a solution to it. I believe so because the government of Nigeria, led by our President, has shown the determination and mobilised to the last man.”

By Our Reporter

uri.

The statement said: “Four soldiers, however, lost their lives during the ambush.

“On evacuation of the remains of the fallen troops, the General Officer Commanding addressed the troops who registered their anger about the incident by firing into the air,” it said.

The statement explained that the situation had since been brought under control.

It said that the 7 Division of the Army would institute a military board of inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the conduct of soldiers who fired some shots.

Continued on page 59

ACF alleges hidden agenda against North

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HE pan-Northern sociopolitical organisation, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), criticised yesterday the government’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency and the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, saying the President’s response suggested a hidden agenda against the North.

The northern umbrella body also lampooned First Lady, Patience Jonathan for conducting what it called a mock trial of government officials on national television.

In a statement entitled “Insecurity and government Ineptitude”, signed by the Secretary General, Col. John Paul Ubah (rtd), the ACF said it was disappointed by the government’s handling of the Chibok’s girls’ abduction and the insurgency.

The ACF noted that the President displayed lack of urgency in the handling of the issue, until Nigerians poured onto the streets to demand action. The First Lady, said the ACF, attempted to disrupt efforts by to free the abducted girls, claiming that no girls were missing.

The statement reads: “The Rapid Response Committee of the ACF met on Wednesday, the 14th of May, 2014 at the Forum’s Headquarters, Kaduna. The meeting reviewed the current state of insecurity in the country and resolved to issue the following press statement.

“That the response of the Federal Government, particularly

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, to the abduction of over 200 students by Boko Haram from the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno on the 14th of April, 2014, is disappointing.

“The President approached the abduction with neither a sense of urgency nor seriousness until ordinary Nigerians poured out on to the streets demanding greater action. The first lady remained characteristically disruptive of all efforts by concerned Nigerians.

“Her reaction to the street protests was to set up her own panel of inquiry to which she summoned federal and state government officials, including wives of governors. She conducted a mock trial of the officials on live television and at the end of it, declared that no school girls were missing, suggesting that the entire story was some hoax constructed to embarrass her husband.

“The approach of the President to the tragic abductions of the Chibok girls is not much different from his handling of the entire insurgency war that has engulfed the North, especially the Northeast region since 2009.

Even the President’s most ardent supporters readily agree that his prosecution of the insurgency war has been hesitant, Continued on page 59

Reps okay emergency extension in three states Continued from page 1

to extend emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.

They held Speaker Aminu Tambuwal and other members spell bound for two and half hours on the need for six more months of emergency rule in the three states.

They gave four key reasons to back their stand. These are: •the situation in the states, which they described as “fragile”, “unpredictable” and a “threat to peace”; •extension will boost intelligence gathering and operation against Boko Haram insurgents; •emergency rule will give the U.S. and other foreign collaborators freedom and legal backing to operate and enter any part of Nigeria to free the abducted 276 girls; and •to avoid trial/ sanction by International Criminal Court and other bodies if due process is not followed in military campaigns against insurgents.

It was gathered that the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Usman Jubrin, who stood in for the CDS, gave insights into the operation against the insurgents in the Northeast.

Admiral Jubrin said: “We need your support as our political leaders to make headway in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency. The six-month extension is necessary and we are hopeful that we should be able to curtail these insurgents.

“It is not as if it is convenient for all but it (emergency rule) is the only way to end this insurgency. We have so far succeeded in driving away the insurgents from Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State to only Sambisa Forest from where they come out to operate.

“With what is on ground and our operations so far, we need the extension of the emergency rule.

“We should also give our foreign collaborators, who are coming to assist, the enabling environment to operate. It is only under the state of emergency that they can function very well to search and rescue the abducted girls.

“The emergency rule gives legal backing for our operations and international intervention.

Otherwise, after the insurgency, our soldiers and international collaborators will be appearing before International Criminal Court for crimes.

“We will get the abducted girls back, but we will not divulge operational information,” he said.

The Service Chiefs cited court verdicts on the invasion of Odi and Zaki-Biam to back up their demand for the extension of the emergency rule.

They said the invasion of the two towns during the administration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo became a subject of litigation because Obasanjo did not seek the legal backing of the National Assembly.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen. Kenneth Minimah said: “Although insurgency has abated in Yobe State, the extension of the emergency rule in the three states was designed to prevent Boko Haram from relocating to Yobe State to meet and plot attacks.”

Asked about the package for fallen troops, Gen. Minimah said: “Ideally, soldiers who died under two years in service are not entitled to certain perks and entitlements, but because of the nature of the battle against insurgents, equal treatment is being given to all gallant soldiers.”

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Nunayon Amosu, admitted that there had

been under-funding of the military over the years.

“He added: “The neglect has been over the years; it is not just today. The Armed Forces will ask for N20billion but they will give N2billion.

“We plead with you to provide funds for the Armed Forces and security agencies to play their roles well.”

Inspector-General of Police Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar said: “The extension of the state of emergency will enable the military and security agencies to carry out more intelligence gathering and operate within the ambit of the law.

“If you give us the legal backing, the better. Nobody wants to go to ICC for trial after leaving office.”

The Director of the State Security Service, Ekpenyong Ita, said: “We have done a lot to foil many planned attacks by the insurgents. We have been taking preemptive action and we have aborted many attacks.

“We have also tracked down and arrested those behind some of the bomb explosions in some parts of the country.

“We are doing our best to rescue the abducted girls. Troops are closing in on Sambisa For-

est.”

Overwhelmed by the brief from the Service Chiefs, Speaker Aminu Tambuwal said: “As Nigerians, this is the time to rise above sentiments; we should be patriotic. Let us put national stability and security on the front burners.”

A source said: “With the emotion-laden evaluation of the Speaker and the brief from the Service Chiefs, we all bought the idea of extending the emergency rule.”

The House of Representatives consequently approved an extra six months extension of emergency rule in the three states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa.

President Goodluck Jonathan had in a letter to the Speaker, dated May 5, brought a equest to the National Assembly for an extension of the state of emergency in the Northeastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa Media and Public Affairs Committee Chairman Zakari Mohammed told reporters after the executive session that the decision was devoid of party affiliation.

According to him, from the briefing received from the Service Chiefs, some men were lost during the operations, but that

•Mark

nonetheless, adequate provision had been made for the payment of pension and gratuity and motivation for the soldiers and security personnel involved in the operation.

He noted that the situation is an opportunity to share intelligence and information among security agencies and the international allies.

But the presidential request suffered a setback in the Senate, Continued on page 59

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

NEWS CHIBOK GIRLS’ ABDUCTION

Lawyer seeks Africa’s military coalition

Terrorism is social menace, says Amosun

A

LEGAL consultant, Chief Atiemo-Gyan, has called for the establishment of an African Military High Command to quell terrorism and other acts of insurgency in any part of the continent.

In a statement in Lagos, Atiemo-Gyan warned that Boko Haram had international connections to destabilise Africa, using Nigeria - the biggest, powerful and most populated country on the continent - as its launch pad.

The lawyer noted that some Arab nations had a sinister motive to Islamise Africa, not just Nigeria.

According to him, to be forewarned, is to be fore-armed.

Atiemo-Gyan said the African Union (AU) should establish the continent’s military high command to avoid being taken by surprise by some religious fundamentalists.

The lawyer said some fundamentalists wanted to extend their obnoxious plan to West Africa, having destabilised some North and East African nations.

He specifically referred to an interview of a former diplomat, Ambassador Bola Dada, published in The Punch on April 12, (page 26), where he was quoted to have been chased out of Sudan when he raised the alarm about Boko Haram.

The lawyer said the former envoy was accused of knowing too much.

Amba. Dada said the late Osama Bin Ladin used Sudan as his base, having an office a few blocks away from the Nigerian Embassy in Sudan.

He also said bin Ladin had many industries which he only used as the training camps for Al-Qaeda.

According to him, among his trainees were many Nigerians from the North.

They would leave Nigeria as if they were going to study, but were at the training camps of Osama Bin Laden, he said.

Mamora cautions against hard-line politics

By Leke Salaudeen

F

ORMER Senate Minority Leader Olorunnimbe Mamora has urged the Federal Government to keep an open mind in its dealings with the Boko Haram sect over the schoolgirls abducted in Chibok, Borno State.

Mamora said the government should not lose sight of what is at stake - the lives of over 200 innocent young girls.

The senator noted that it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that the girls are rescued safely from their Boko Haram captors.

Against the backdrop of President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration that the government would not swap Boko Haram prisoners for the abducted schoolgirls, Mamora cautioned the government against ruling out negotiation with the dreadful sect.

He said it was unfortunate Nigeria was in a precarious security situation where the insurgents were dictating the terms.

“But we have to keep an open mind because of the over 200 lives that are involved,” he said.

“In a situation like this, you don’t have to maintain a hardline decision, even if it involves only one live. The government should show concern. However, the government should be sure that Boko Haram is indeed ready for negotiation.”

•Governor’s wife to pray for Chibok girls

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•From left: United Nations (UN) Country Representative on Drugs and Crime, Mariam Sissoko; Director, International Labour Organisation (ILO), Sinanzeni Chuma-Mkandawire; World Health Organisation (WHO) Representative, Dr Rui Miguel Vaz and Regional Director of United Nations Children’s Fund (UNESCO), Hassana Alidou, at a briefing on UN's support for PHOTO: NAN Nigeria's efforts to rescue abducted Chibok schoolgirls in Abuja…yesterday.

Protesters give Jonathan ultimatum to rescue girls

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ROTESTERS in Abuja on the April 14 abduction of over 200 pupils of the Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, have given President Goodluck Jonathan until Monday to address them on the abduction or face a mega march of protesters to the Villa.

They vowed to mobilise protesters from all the states for a mega rally to the Aso Rock Villa for the rescue of the innocent girls.

The protesters wrote a letter to Dr Jonathan with a caveat that he should address protesters demanding the girls’ rescue.

From Grace Obike, Abuja

They vowed to mobilise protesters at the end of 48 hours, if Dr Jonathan does not respond.

A former Education Minister, Dr Oby Ezekwesili, spoke for the protesters yesterday at a gathering in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

She said the government had not taken any action so far to earn the people’s trust that it was serious about the rescue.

According to her, the protest against the abduction of

the Chibok girls is a way of fixing the mess within the Federal Government.

Dr Ezekwesili said: “This is a whole new exercise of Nigerians coming together and demanding accountability.

We are still waiting for the response of the Presidency concerning the letter we wrote to him. We will give him 48 hours to see if there will be a responds.

“If the response does not come by 48 hours, then we will be forced to march up to him.

Between now and (next) Tues-

day, we will demand representatives from all the states; we will engage in massive mobilisation of women across Nigeria. The various chapters of BringBackOurGirls in all the states for a mega rally.

“If we do not hear from the President by Monday, we will be forced to have a mega march on Tuesday to the Presidential Villa.”

The protesters are also planning to visit Chibok, to “listen to the groaning parents”.

Dr Ezekwesilis said the group would march to the Nigerien, Chadian and Cameroonian embassies in Abuja.

Boko Haram affects 9m people, says NEMA

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HE National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has said nine million persons have been indirectly affected by the Boko Haram crisis.

It also said 3,161,887 others were directly affected and in dire need of humanitarian relief assistance.

The recent abduction of over 200 schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State, by the sect members has compounded the security crisis in the Northeast and elicited international concerns over the activities of the terror group in Nigeria, the agency said.

To strengthen humanitarian coordination in response to the Northeast crisis, NEMA said it collaborated with other stakeholders in March on a multi-sectoral rapid assessment of the humanitarian situation in Borno, Yobe and a Adamawa states.

NEMA’s Director-General Mohummed Sani Sidi spoke yesterday in Abuja when he received the United Nations (UN) Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Said Djnnit.

From Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

The NEMA chief said the continuous support of the United States system to NEMA and its stakeholders had accounted for the improved human and material capacity for emergency response.

Sidi said: “There is no doubt that the wave of insurgency in the Northeastern states of Nigeria in the past few years has become one of the greatest challenges facing emergency responders in the country.

“From the beginning of the state of emergency in the Northeast, NEMA, in collaboration with the Joint Task Force (JTF) has established a humanitarian cell in Borno State and sub-cells in Yobe and Adamawa states to provide emergency relief assistance to communities affected by the crisis.

“Several initiatives have been put in place by the government to assist the communities affected in the Northeast. The presidential initiative for the Northeast has distributed assorted food items

to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host communities of the three states.

“In consideration of the dire humanitarian situation in the states, the agency is looking forward to the urgent support of all the arms of UN system as a follow-up to this meeting.”

Amb. Djnnit said the UN was committed to the peace and unity of Nigeria.

“I am here to know where exactly NEMA needs the UN to intervene. We will help the government to make the best use of the resources on the ground,” he said.

Monarchs visit Jonathan over girls’ abduction

S

OME traditional rulers from oil-producing communities visited President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja over the state of the nation.

During their closed-door meeting with the President, the visitors expressed worries over the abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State, and the escalating activities of

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

the Boko Haram sect across the country.

The leader of the delegation and paramount ruler of Mgbirichi/Abakuru in Ohaji/ Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, Eze Akunueze Raphael Eze Ahurunkwe II, addressed State House correspondents at

the end of the meeting.

He said: “This is a courtesy visit to solidarise with the President and discuss some issues affecting our nation.

“Of course, we are worried about the Chibok girls and the activities of Boko Haram.

We are prayerful that Mr President has been working assiduously to make sure they are released. We are very prayerful.”

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has said terrorism is a social menace.

The governor spoke yesterday in Abeokuta, the state capital, when he received the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonathan Richardson.

He said insurgency is a bane to peaceful co-existence among Nigerians, especially in the Northeast.

Amosun called for a united force to fight the Boko Haram insurgency.

He hailed the Australian government for collaborating with the international community to fight terrorism. The governor prayed for quick restoration of peace in the crisis zones.

Amosun told his visitor that Ogun was the most industrialbased state in Nigeria, maintaining a cordial relationship with reputable firms.

Also, the wife of the governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, has said this year’s Children’s Day on May 27 will be marked with a special prayer among children from parts of the state.

The children will pray as a congregation for the speedy release of the over 200 schoolgirls abducted in Chibok, Borno State, a month ago, she said.

The session may also be a thanksgiving, if the abducted girls are returned before the day.

The prayer session, according to Mrs. Amosun, will hold at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.

Okonjo-Iweala: we won’t forget Chibok girls From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

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HE Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, promised yesterday that the Federal Government will not relent in its efforts to rescue the over 200 abducted schoolgirls by the Boko Haram sect.

The minister spoke in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, at the launch of an oil palm plantation and the distribution of personal computer tablets to fresh students of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).

She said: “I want to start this occasion by telling that we should take one minute to recognise a group of young women for whom we are saddened and waiting: our young girls from Chibok. Can you start up for just one minute, please!

“We promised that we would not forget them, and we will not.

The reason I wanted to mention them is because when we speak about what happened to them, we feel sad. But when we enter this hall with all of you, with your energy, the president of your students’ union said your campaign of positivity. This is a wonderful thing to feel in this country. You have given me hope.”

Insecurity caused girls’ abduction, says Tinubu’s wife

T

HE wife of former Lagos State governor, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed concerns over insecurity in the country and the inability of the government to bring back the schoolgirls adducted in Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram insurgents.

She said the insecurity in Nigeria was the cause of the abduction of the over 200 missing Chibok schoolgirls, among other challenges.

Mrs Tinubu spoke with our reporter in Lagos at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, Ikeja.

By Olatunde Odebiyi

She said the pain of the missing pupils was not only to them but also to their parents, families and all good people across the world.

The senator representing Lagos Central also expressed concerns over the children murdered in their school sometime ago and the youths who died during the Immigration job interview in Abuja, among others.

She said several things had been going on that Nigerians needed to examine critically to ensure that the nation does not

vote for people with questionable characters in the 2015 elections.

Mrs Tinubu said: “Nigeria has the resources to protect itself. What we need is the right leadership to protect our people, give them a safe environment, create jobs for our youths and build a better society.”

Also, Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola said God will intervene and restore peace in Nigeria.

The governor hoped the abducted Chibok schoolgirls would be reunited with their families.

•Senator Tinubu

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

6

NEWS

•60 Nigerian technicians sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited’s Subsidiary, Bonny Gas Transport (BGT) to South Korea for a training on ship construction at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) Technical Education Institute and their Korean facilitators...yesterday.

Talba resumes after one-year suspension From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

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USTICE Abubakar Mahmud Talba of the High Court , Abuja has resumed duties after his one-year suspension by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The judge was suspended last year by the NJC over his alleged wrongful exercise of his discretion in his handling of the case of the convicted police pension thief, John Yakubu Yusuf.

In a judgment in January last year, convicted Yusuf, a director in the Police Pension Office and sentenced him to a two-year jail term after he pleaded guilty to complicity in the theft of about N27.2 billion pensions’ funds. Yusuf admitted stealing N2 billion of the money and pleaded guilty to three counts of the charge against him.

In exercising his discretion, following a plea bargain between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Yusuf, Justice Talba gave Yusuf N250,000 fine option per count, bringing the amount to N750,000.

The Nation learnt that the judge resumed duties on May 2 at Court 10 of the Abuja High Court, where he sat before his suspension.

U.S. Consul-General visits PFN President From OSemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

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HE United States ConsulGeneral to Nigeria, Mr. Jeff Hawkins, yesterday visited the Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) President , Dr. Felix Omobude.

Hawkins toured Omobude’s Lighthouse Polytechnic in Evbuobanosa , near Benin, the Edo State capital.

The envoy said he was impressed with the structures on ground.

The US Consul-General said: “Thanks to the President, Rector and members of the faculties for this wonderful visit.

Your institution is truly a Lighthouse of learning.”

Omobude said the institution started academic activities in 2008 in a rented apartment in Benin City before moving to its permanent site at Evbuobanosa.

Gambo kicks against emergency rule

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HE National Conference Committee on National Security has kicked against the extension of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.

Charman of the Committee and a former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Alhaji Gambo Jimeta, said to extend the emergency rule is undesirable.

The Committee, while concluding its work yesterday, also recommended a decentralised police, community policing, removal of immunity clause and the establishment of a military border security organisation among others.

Jimeta said the emergency has outlived its use-

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•Conference panel okays decentralisation of police From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

fulness.

He said: “A reporter asked me yesterday why did Chief Awolowo’s Western government was put under emergency? Why did Obasanjo declare emergency in Plateau?

“These are circumstances that happened. In the case of the Western region, I was alive and I knew what happened. There was a total breakdown of law and order. People were being burnt in their cars, houses and so on, but it was neces-

sary for the Federal Government to step in and stop that and it did not last more than necessary.

“In this case, we have been under emergency rule for how long now? One year in three states affected, and there is no improvement. So, we have to now review the whole thing, re-assess the whole thing. There is something more than just declaring emergency rule.

“If you declare an emergency rule in such disturbed states, you should have enough resources to revamp the architecture of security in those states immediately

Presidency shops for IG Abubakar’s replacement

HE search for a new police chief has begun.

Inspector-General Mohammed Abubakar will retire next month.

The Police Service Commission (PSC) will send some names to President Goodluck Jonathan next week. But the Presidency is not under any obligation to choose from the PSC’s list.

The constitution empowers the president to pick any officer of his choice as the IG. Likely to make the PSC’s list are Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) Suleiman Fakai and DIG Michael Zuokumur.

Also likely are Assistant Inspector-Generals (AIGs) Solomo Arase, Suliaman Abba, Hassma Agungu, Bala Hassan

By Jude Isiguzo

and Baba Adisa Bolanta.

If the Presidency decides to choose from any of the AIGs, the implication is that all the DIGs will go with the IG. A source, who pleaded not to be named because he is not allowed to speak to the media, disclosed that the IG is not likely to come from the Southwest since the region has produced Alhaji A.K. Smith and Alhaji Tafa Balogun. The Chief of Air Staff is also from the Southwest and has not been in that position for more than four months.

The source said: “It is not also likely to be from Southsouth since the President and

the Chief of Army Staff are from that region and PSC Chairman Mike Okiro has also been IG. The IG is likely to come from Northcentral but where we cannot get a good candidate from there, the position could still remain in Northwest”.

A police source disclosed that the Presidency ensured that Zuokumur, the DIG in charge of ‘B’ Department, was elevated to that position to prepare him as IG. Zuokumur was AIG in charge of Zone 4, Makurdi, Benue State before his recent promotion to DIG. He is from the President’s home state, Bayelsa.

Fakai is the DIG in charge of ‘A’ Department. He is

and for a long time to come while you also bring the other states into consideration so that this thing didn’t happen again.”

Another member of the Committee and Leader of the Odua Peoples Congress (OPC), Gani Adam, said the Committee okayed decentralisation of police.

“We agreed on the decentralisation of police to the extent that the police from the ranks of Private to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) should be posted to their home state. Officer of the ranks above DSP can be posted anywhere in the country.”

T

By Adebisi Onanuga and Joseph Jibueze

Covenant Sugarland Property Development Limited, under a partnership between Adenuga and Kenny Oyeniran.

Other investors were said to have committed funds to the land, which was to be sandfilled and reclaimed for a proposed estate to be called Sugarland Town.

Oyeniran and other investors claimed they had invested N3 billion in the project.

But the defendant allegedly secretly obtained the signatures of the land owners, and registered the property in his name.

He was also alleged to have

forged the survey plan, EFCC said.

The defendant allegedly presented a false document titled “Contract of Sale between Covenant Apartment Complex Limited and Kingview Realty” to EFCC officers contrary to Section 363 and 364 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

The alleged offences, said to have been committed in July 2008, also contravene Sections 278 (1) and 285 (b) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Adenuga pleaded not guilty to the three count charges.

When asked whether he was guilty or not guilty after the first count was read to him, he

A

LL Progressives Congress (APC) youths from Anambra State have urged the party to focus on rebranding as a popular mass movement to entrench internal democracy where no one is oppressed.

The APC youths spoke when they visited the newly elected APC chairman in the state, Obiora Igwedibia.

They condemned the “creation of the position of spokesperson for APC Southeast”.

Spokesperson of the group and the leader of Anambra APC Restoration Vanguard, Comrade Jude Okenwa, said: “Their is no position known to the party hierarchy or constitution designated as Southeast or zonal spokesperson, except of course in the disingenious realm of an impostor.”

Fire at V. I. Diamond Bank

By Preciouus Igbonwelundu

•Abubakar

from Kebbi State, which is in the Northwest and is said to be very close to the outgoing IG. Sources said if the Presidency should ask the IG to pick his replacement, he would likely go with Fakai.

But another source at the PSC told The Nation that the battle may be narrowed down to three candidates Arase, Abbah and Bolanta.

EFCC arraigns accountant for alleged conversion of N5b property HE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday arraigned a former accountant at Chevron Nigeria Limited, Mr. Michael Adenuga, for alleged fraudulent conversion of a N5billion land.

He was charged before Justice Sendoten Ogunsanya of the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja.

EFCC’s lawyer Mr. Jamiu Musa alleged that Adenuga and his company, Covenant Apartment Complex Limited fraudulently converted the land, measuring 22.68 hectares, to himself.

The property is at Ayetoro Ikota, in Lekki, Lagos.

The commission said the property is jointly owned by

Anambra APC youths seek rebranding

said: “Not guilty. I cannot steal my property.”

His lawyer, Mr Ehis Agbogu, told the court that he filed a bail application and pleaded that Adenuga be remanded in EFCC custody.

He said his client is diabetic and has high blood pressure, adding that remanding him in prison custody could worsen his health.

“He needs to be alive to stand trial,” the lawyer said.

But Justice Ogunsanya ordered that the defendant be remanded in Kirikiri Maximum Prisons.

She adjourned till May 21 for hearing of the bail application.

T

HERE was fire yesterday at the Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos branch of Diamond Bank Plc. The fire, which started about 7:30pm, was said to have razed four offices, including the ICT room, where it started.

Lagos State Fire Service officials, led by its Director Rasaq Fadipe and other rescue agencies, were still battling to put out the inferno at 10.30 last night.

Although no life was lost, properties worth millions of naira were destroyed.

Confirming the incident, Fadipe said he got an alert at 8:01pm and arrived at the scene by 8:07pm.

“It is true. The fire started from the ICT room, which is upstairs in the one-storey building, and spread to three other offices from the roof.

“We arrived on the scene with two fire trucks - Onikan and EtiOsa and Union Bank and Lekki also brought their fire trucks to put out the inferno.

“I cannot say the extent of damage at the moment because we are still battling with the fire. But computers, air-conditioner and stationery are among the things destroyed. ”My advice is that companies should ensure they instal automatic fire detector and extinguisher in their ICT rooms.

“Because ICT is the engine room of any office, it becomes hot constantly. So, it needs automatic fire detector to alert the people when there is fire and an automatic extinguisher to put it off,” Fadipe said.

THE NATION FRIDAY MAY 16, 2014

7

NEWS

Monarchs vital to effective governance, says Aregbesola

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SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has urged traditional rulers to redouble their efforts to sustain the peace in the state as the August 9 poll draws nearer.

The governor spoke yesterday at the closing of a two-day conference organised for frontline Osun monarchs at the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding in Osogbo, the state capital.

He described the role of traditional rulers as “vital” to effective governance, adding that they must ensure that democracy does not fail in their time.

Aregbesola said: “You owe it to your people to ensure peaceful, free and fair elections in your various domains. It behoves you all to mobilise the people against allowing the enemies of democracy to subvert the will of the people in the coming poll through rigging and violence.

“The good people of Osun deserve freedom; freedom from want, poverty, unemployment, poor education and collapsed infrastructure. Our

N

52,000 enjoy Ekiti free health scheme

O

•Rulers call for unity people deserve to have their aspirations for development and material betterment come to realisation.”

The governor said traditional rulers were complementary in keeping peace, ensuring social order and cohesion.

He said: “Traditional rulers must exercise no doubt as to the fact that they bear as much responsibility for the peaceful and orderly governance of the state as we do, even though we occupy a higher level of authority in the modern governance arrangement.

“This is why we will always accord you the deserved honour and reverence in the scheme of things in the land. As a government, therefore, contrary to the impression that some have tried to give, we have always held our royal fathers in high regard, with important priority accorded to them in our policy and governance.

“We will continue to place you on this high pedestal because it would amount to disre-

spect for our people and our custom to act in any contrary manner. This conference we organised for you is partly aimed at confirming to you the kind of honourable position in which we place you.”

The rulers called for the unity of the Yoruba.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade lauded the governor’s achievements in three-and-ahalf years.

He said for the Yoruba nation to move forward, its people must unite and forge a common front.

Oba Sijuwade said: “We traditional rulers occupy a central position in our respective domains and we must make sure that we set a good example for the people to see. It is a clear testimony that the present administration has performed beyond the people’s expectation and I urge the people to support it so that it can do more.

“The Yoruba nation must progress and our people look up to us as their rulers to chart a

said APC is waxing stronger and the opposition is getting jittery over the development.

He said: “The PDP’s claim that was published in one of the newspapers that 3,050 APC members defected to the PDP is not true. I challenge them to name the defectors.”

Sani said the party, under the leadership of the Local Govern-

ment Chairman, Ayodeji Joseph, has increased in strength and there was nothing to warrant any defection.

He said the PDP was merely licking its wounds for lack patronage, urging it to follow a honourable path “instead of embarking on campaigns of calumny”.

Sani said: “We are one big family, for someone to wake up overnight and say that

•Aregbesola

way forward. We must not fail to demonstrate our leadership role.”

The Chairman of the Yoruba Council of Obas’ Technical Committee and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, said the primary role of monarchs was the unification of the people.

He attributed the disaffection among monarchs to lack of understanding of their traditional positions and hierarchy.

Oba Gbadebo urged his colleagues to shun partisan politics and acknowledge any government that is performing wonderfully.

He said: “Unity is our strength. Traditional rulers must unite for the progress of Yorubaland. Rulers must unite first so that we can unite our people for the progress of Yorubaland.”

‘Apapa APC members didn’t defect’

O All Progressives Congress (APC) member defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Apapa Local Government Area of Lagos State, the APC Chairman in the council, Alhaji Abdulfatai Sani, has said.

At a conference held at the council’s secretariat, Sani

Soka: Man arraigned for ‘kidnap’

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MAN, Sakiru Adebayo (37), was arraigned yesterday before an Ibadan Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting at Iyaganku for alleged kidnapping of two persons.

The prosecutor, Sunday Ogunremi, told the court that Adebayo kidnapped Lanre Salami (25) and Dare Ogunkunle (23).

He said Adebayo was a customer of Salami, a commercial motorcyclist.

Ogunremi said on March

over 3,000 of our members defected is a big lie. There is nothing like that because they cannot substantiate it. It is a campaign of wickedness.

“Our members are committed. They are moving with us in whatever direction we go.

They are satisfied with what the council is doing and have since denounced the PDP’s false campaign aimed at achieving cheap popularity.”

VER 52,000 people benefited from the ninth edition of the Ekiti State government’s free health mission, the Commissioner for Health, Prof.

Olusola Fasubaa, has said.

He said the Governor Kayode Fayemi-led administration was determined to have a healthy populace and bring succour to the less privilege.

Fasubaa, who spoke through the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, said referral cases would be attended to at designated government secondary and tertiary health care facilities, including the Ekiti

State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) and the Funmilayo Olayinka Memorial Diagnostic Centre.

Describing health as a vital component of the administration’s 8-point agenda and an important tool in achieving sustainable human development, Fasubaa said the adoption of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was to support the state’s free health scheme.

He said the 35 designated health facilities would continue to provide free health care for children under five, expectant mothers, physicalchallenged persons and senior citizens aged 65 and above.

WAMCO trains 350 dairy farmers

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RIESLANDCAMPINA WAMCO PLC has inaugurated a Dairy Development Programme (DDP) in Iseyin, Oyo State, to increase local milk production.

The company, which is the maker of Peak Milk, Three Crowns Milk and Friso Milk, said the DDP will enable dairy farmers to run their businesses optimally and increase the volume and quality of dairy products made locally.

At the ceremony yesterday, the company’s Managing Director, Mr. Peter Eshikena, said the DPP was to support the Federal Government’s initiative to develop dairy farming in Nigeria.

He said: “Our company commenced collection of fresh milk from Shonga Dairies in Kwara State. Over the course of four years, the success of the programme has necessitated an expansion in our operating areas; Oyo be-

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

ing a key focus area.”

Eshikena said over 350 farmers in Fasola, Alaga, Maya-Eruwa and Iseyin were registered and trained in raw milk hygiene, raw milk quality and financial education, among others.

He said there are four equipped milk collection centres in Fasola, Alaga, MayaEruwa and Iseyin and a milk bulking centre with about 72 farming communities actively engaged in dairy farming.

Chairman, WAMCO Board of Directors, Joseph Ajekigbe said in addition to conserving foreign exchange for the country, the DPP creates jobs for youths.

Ajekigbe said: “In addition to assisting existing farmers to become better farmers, the programme provides an opportunity for interested individuals to be trained in dairy farming techniques and set up their own farms.”

20, Adebayo told Salami to take him to Soka in Ibadan and Salami’s brother, Ogunkunle, accompanied them there.

He said since then, Salami and Ogunkunle had been missing.

Adebayo pleaded “not guilty”.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Sofiat Oyediran, granted Adebayo N50,000 bail with two sureties in like sum.

The case was adjourned till June 25.

Fashola: Lagos is vulnerable to global warming

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AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola has said the state is vulnerable to the negative effects of global warming.

Governor Fashola spoke at the sixth anniversary of climate change clubs in schools at the Nigeria Police College in Ikeja, Lagos.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, urged Lagosians to be part of the government’s effort to correct mistakes of the past.

He said the establishment of the clubs in primary and secondary schools was part of strategic efforts to combat the negative effects of climate change, adding that as future leaders, children must be prepared to take up the challenges ahead.

Fashola said: “For us in Lagos State, we are vulnerable to the effects of global warming. The establishment of climate change clubs in our schools is part of our strategic and complementary efforts to correct the mistakes of the past.

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

“I believe I do not need to emphasis that our children are the future of this nation. They will be the next parents and leaders who will take over the running of our families and, most especially, the affairs of this country when we are no more.

If we do not teach them what is right, they will not escape doing what is wrong.”

The governor said young people do not want to inherit a world damaged by climate change and want to be part of creating solutions.

He said: “Young people have shown their potentials at various fora across the world through their creative thinking and inventions. Today, they have brought positive thoughts and creativity to global intergovernmental processes, demanding concrete action from their governments.”

Commissioner for Environment Tunji Bello said climate change clubs are agents of positive change and vehicles of transformation.

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (second left); Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives Samuel Ayedogbon (second right); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives, Mrs. Yemi Olanrewaju (right) and State Chairman, Community Development Council, Chief Isaiah Akinsonwon (left) displaying the key of the new Toyota Hiace bus donated to the council by the government during the 2014 Ogun State Community Day at the M.K.O. Abiola International Stadium in Kuto, Abeokuta...yesterday.

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Gunmen storm Ado-Ekiti chief’s palace

CHIEFTAINCY dispute is turning violent in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

The palace of the Edemo of Ado-Ekiti, Chief Bamidele Aduloju, was invaded by gunmen around 11pm on Wednesday.

It was learnt that the hoodlums searched every room in the palace for the chief but did not find him.

Broken bottles and stones littered the road to the palace in Odo-Ado yesterday.

It was gathered that the hoodlums returned yester-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

day.

When they did not see Aduloju, they vandalised property and shot repeatedly into the air, injuring two persons.

Five vehicles and three motorcycles were vandalised.

The vehicles are a Mitsubishi (AGL266BB); an Audi 80 (AP525ADK); a Toyota, (AE334SSE); a Camry (AH286LEW) and a lorry (CJ845RBC).

On Wednesday, Aduloju issued a statement alleging plans by the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti,

Oba Rufus Adejugbe, to evict him from his palace and install Mr. Dayo Olufajemilua as Edemo.

The embattled chief’s son, Mr. Sunday Aduloju, said: Before they (the hoodlums) came, Baba went to make a report. That was what saved him. We heard sporadic gunshots coming from our compound and took my father to Okesa Police Station where we slept.

“The Ewi’s attempt to install 27-year-old Fajemilua as the Edemo is not acceptable to the Edemo family and nobody

can trample on our tradition.”

There were no comments from the Ewi yesterday.

Police spokesman Victor Babayemi said the police would not take sides in the matter, describing it as “a purely chieftaincy matter, which is not being properly managed”.

Babayemi said the police would deal with anyone who breaks the law, adding: “While we have ensured that calm has returned to the area, we are also keeping our eyes on the personalities involved.”

THE NATION FRIDAY MAY 16, 2014

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NEWS EKITI 2014

PDP, APC bicker over N1.4b Ekiti dam contract

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HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has alleged that the newly awarded N1.4 billion Ero Dam contract was to serve as a conduct pipe through which the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Dr Kayode Fayemi will fund his re-election bid.

Fayose spoke yesterday through the director general of his ampaign organisation (AFCO), Chief Dipo Anisulowo. The PDP candidate said it was curious that contracts worth several billions of naira were being awarded by the government just about five weeks to the election.

The Government last week said it approved a N1.375 billion contract for the TurnAround Maintenance (TAM) of the Ero Dam, Phase 1. The contract was awarded to Messrs

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

Bi-water Nigeria Ltd by the State Executive Council.

The Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation debunked the claims, urging “Fayose to substantiate the allegation with evidence”.

A statement by the spokesperson of the organisation, Mr. Dimeji Daniels, dismissed Fayose as “a seeker of an office which he is not qualified for.

“Fayose blows hot and cold at the same time. At a time, he accused Fayemi of having stopped all projects across the state. Now, he is saying Fayemi has been awarding contracts few weeks to the election.”

Fayose queried the rationale behind the contract award for the maintenance of the Ero Dam that the government

said in January was undergoing major repairs, alleging that “the N1.4 billion was definitely to fund the June 21 election.”

The PDP candidate’s group claimed: “It is on record that the state government said in January that major dams in the state, like Ureje, Ero, Egbe and Itapaji, were undergoing major repairs and would be connected to the various pipes as soon as possible.

“In July 2012, the government said a heavy duty generator worth N200 million was procured and installed at Ero dam as backup for electricity.

“Also in December 2011, the government said part of the N20 billion Bond will be used to rehabilitate the Ero Dam with the main aim of preventing flooding, enhance agricultural development and provision of portable water.

“All the statements quoted above were reported in the media and can still be found on the internet. We then wish to ask why the same Ero Dam that the state government claimed had gulped billions of naira since 2011, is going to gulp another N1.4 billion?”

But Daniels maintained Fayose’s campaign organisation spoke for lack of what to say rather than a genuine need to expose possible misdeeds of a co-contender. He noted that AFCO “just fabricates jejune claims that cannot be substantiated in an attempt to speak for speaking sake.”

Urging the PDP candidate’s campaign organisation to refocus its energy on how to rejig and refocus the campaign of its candidate, Daniels stressed: “Our campaigns have nothing to do with fabrication or lies.

“Our organisation hold cred-

ibility in high esteem. Fayemi brought Ekiti to this high pedestal today on the alter of impeccable credibility, trasparency, focus and forthrightness.

“If Fayose is interested in knowing about any project, let him visit the Office of Public Procurement and the website of the state government.

Contractors are currently in site regarding the said Ero Dam project and every other project awarded either earlier or recently are verifiable.

“Let us however add that Fayose has to return its lying strategy as it has failed. More and more of his supporters are trooping into the progressives fold and we have been welcoming and honouring them.

They deserted him as they could not find in him the leadership quality a follower could hold on to.”

Fayemi is unstoppable, says PDP defector

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•Oni’s aide, LP chieftains join APC lar of the PDP in the state, but they had to leave because of their resolve not to allow a minority in their former party to take the state to slavery.

He said Fayemi should be re-elected so that Ekiti’s development would not be put in reverse gear.

Another PDP stalwart in the area, Chief Olusola Ayodele, who also defected with his supporters, said he was “leaving darkness for light.”

Fayemi was on the second leg of his campaign tour to communities in Ikole where he urged the people to come out en masse and exercise their franchise in favour of the “broom party.”

Other communities visited by the APC candidate include Ara, Asin, Ikoyi, Usin, Ootunja, Isaba, Ilamo, Igbona, Ikunri and Orin Odo. Owoseni, who was a councillor during the Segun Oni administration, said he had worked against Fayemi in the past and was among the former local government officials that

instituted a legal action against the state government.

The former PDP members said he had repented and decided to join the APC because Fayemi has in the last three and half years changed the face of the state. He added that the APC candidate had also brought development closer to all nooks and crannies of the state.

According to him, should the constitution and the Electoral Act permit a third term in office, Fayemi has done enough to be accorded the honour after completing his second term in office.

Owoseni said: “We are defecting to the APC because this governor has performed wonders since he came to power and everybody, including those of us who were in the opposition, acknowledged this.

“It is a taboo to kick against the thorns. I was one of those who dragged the government to court, but we never knew that Fayemi is a humble, compassionate and caring person who could perform these won-

ders.

“A tree planted by God cannot be uprooted. Look at the road from Ado to IjesaIsu, which used to take over two hours, now takes me about 15 minutes because of the new road constructed by Fayemi.”

Mrs. Agunloye, who defected from the LP, said she and other women in their former party decided to join the APC because Ijesa-Isu community has benefited immensely from the Fayemi administration.

She also said they ditched the LP because of various developmental projects carried out in their community and the empowerment of many indigenes of the town in job creation, payment of monthly stipends to the aged and political patronage enjoyed by indigenes.

The former PDP member added that they also decided to join the APC because it is the only party through which the dream of a new Kajola Local Government could be realised.

The defectors Dr Fayemi

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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ABOUR Party (LP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele has promised to make pension payment a first line charge if elected governor of the state.

Bamidele stated this yesterday in Ado-Ekiti during an interactive session with members of the Ekiti State chapter of Nigeria Union of Pensioners.

He said the move, which would be a budgetary provision, will be aimed at making the delay in the payment of pension and gratuities a thing of the past in the state.

The member of House of Representatives, who decried backlog of pension arrears owed the people, said the pensioners would be accorded topmost priority in the LP government.

While declaring that over N1 billion would be required to pay up the arrears, he said N112 million would be committed to the cause within the first 11 months of his administration He said, “We will run programmes and policies that will make you proud pensioners again.

“Delay in the payment of pension will be addressed bugetarily by making it a first line charge”.

Describing pensioners as critical stakeholders in the state, Bamidele said he would tap into their advice to develop the state. “ I will work with you as stakeholders and tap into your sincere advice,” he said The federal lawmaker, who also promised not to politicised job allotment in the state, added that children of the pensioners would be given special consideration in all employment process.

Group organises fund-raising for Fayose in Lagos

•A crowd of supporters at the campaign rally of APC governorship candidate, Kayode Fayemi, in Ikere-Ekiti.

KITI State Governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Kayode Fayemi, has been described as a “tree planted by God that cannot be uprooted in the June 21 governorship election”.

This was the position of a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ayo Owoseni, who defected to the APC with his followers at a rally addressed by the governor in Ijesa-Isu in Ikole Local Government Area yesterday.

Besides Owoseni, the Secretary of the Women Wing of the Labour Party (LP) in Ikole Local Government Area, Mrs. Remi Agunloye, led scores of other women into the APC with a pledge to work for Fayemi’s victory.

The Special Adviser to former Governor Segun Oni on Policy and Strategy, Mr. Ben Oguntuase, who also defected to the APC yesterday, said a vote for Fayemi is a vote for continuation of development and peace.

Oguntuase, who joined the APC at the rally held in Ikole, said the Oni group was the pil-

Bamidele: I will make pension payment first line charge

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•Dr Fayemi

were received into the APC by the interim party chairman, Chief Olajide Awe. In his comments at the event, Fayemi expressed joy with new members coming in from other political parties. He asserted that the move was a show of appreciation of a government that knows the value of the people.

He said his administration still has more to do despite the work done in Ijesa-Isu which include Ijesa-Isu-Ode Road, Ijesa-Isu-Iluomoba-Ado Road, five kilometres roads, renovation of the general hospital and secondary school and ongoing work on the Obanla’s palace.

THE Ekiti State Development Union (EDU) will today hold a fund-raising dinner for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose.

The fund-raising dinner tagged, ‘Restoration 2014,’ holds at Grandeur Event Centre, Oregun, Lagos.

According to a statement issued by Ayo Fayose’s campaign group, Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Godswill Akapbio will be the chairman of the fund-raising dinner, while Skye Bank Plc Chairman, Olatunde Ayeni, George Turnah and Chief Kenny Martins will be special guests of honour.

The PDP candidate’s group commended the EDU for organising the fund-raising, saying it was heart-warming that Ekiti State indigenes in Lagos are identifying with the governorship aspiration of Fayose.

Also speaking, one of the organisers, Yemi Olayinka, said the fund-raising was a moral boaster for the PDP candidate, and also a way of saying; “we Ekiti indigenes in Lagos, under the auspices of Ekiti Development Union are behind Ayodele Fayose and the PDP.”

he incessant wars ravaging parts of the globe.

, transparency, accountability and representative government.

s the World’s conflict zones and fashion a blue print towards ending them

hieve peaceful co-existence between and within nations .

o sustain democracy as a culture, acceptable and workable for the majority

stone unturned in enacting enabling laws that require the comprehensive

gious crises, ethnic militias, boundary disputes, criminality and organized

en and children. Invariably, they have implications for the continuity and

ocracy and peaceful co-existence through constructive engagements with

ance.

children during civil strife.’”

ative.

onal educational programme.

upport of Nigerian government to “endow a literary prize of international

ze, gold medal and stool of royalty.

g.” young people to start developing the interest if the President and the Prof

are used to reading very short things , they don’t have interest in reading

ecially from Achebe’s home state, Anambra which has very vibrant young

des in literature.

the contributions of the African writer to the continent’s development. On der of the delegation said.

Professor Chukwuemeka Ike.

Stop making Ikere-Ekiti dumping ground for dep govs, indigenes plead Candidates boycott INEC’s dialogue with women

Collapsed podium: Fayose to face panel in Abuja for shoddy preparations Fayose was alleged to have rejected a better but costlier podium provided by the party, but preferred to contract it out himself to a local artisan who did a shoddy job, leading to the collapse of the podium midway into the campaign, an event which was beamed live on the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) network.

Sources at the Presidency hinted that the President might have changed his mind in coming to Ekiti State to raise Fayose’s hands as the party’s candidate on May 22.

They told the President that if he had come to Ifaki and had been on that podium, he would have gone down just like others and that would have been bad publicity.

The President was also said to have been embarrassed by the plethora of criminal cases hanging on Fayose’s neck and was said to have been furious because he was not properly briefed before the candidate was recommended to him.

Fayose was also accused of alienating other PDP leaders in Ekiti State in crucial decisions concerning campaign, saying “he has refused to follow the time-table drawn for him by the election committee, failed to recognise the committee and has not funded it since it was inaugurated”.

“He does everything all alone. He was said to have diverted funds meant for the campaign to personal use like buying a house in a high brow area of Abuja.

“Rather than giving out campaign vests to PDP members and supporters, Fayose was selling them, an idea which is very strange to the leaders of the party and which has reportedly discouraged many PDP supporters.

“The lackadaisical attitude of Fayose to the campaign has led the party hierarchy to conclude that Fayose is not keen about winning the June 21 election but is only after making money for himself and dumping the PDP thereafter as he had always done”, the source said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

9

NEWS

Ambode fit for governor, says Akiolu

•Ex-Accountant-General presents his story

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AGOS monarch Oba Rilwan Akiolu has endorsed a former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Finance, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, for next year’s governorship election.

Ambode, a 51-year-old chartered accountant and financial expert from Epe, is an aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He retired voluntarily from the civil service three years ago at 49.

The Olowo-Eko said Ambode is qualified to succeed Governor Babatunde Fashola because of his track record as a technocrat.

He said: “I will not lie to you. The elders of Lagos have met and they have said Ambode should be governor.”

Oba Akiolu spoke yesterday in Lagos at the presentation of two books: Public Sector Accounting (PSA) Book, written by Ambode, and his biography, The Art of Selfless Service, written by Marina Osoba.

The first book was reviewed by the former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Mr. Doyin Owolabi.

The second was reviewed

by Mrs. Uwa Osa-Oboh, a lawyer and management consultant.

The books were presented to the public by Fashola, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Oluranti Adebule.

The guest of honour, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was represented by a former Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Fola ArthurWorrey.

Mr. Michael Dawodu represented the deputy governor, Mrs. Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire.

The highlight of the ceremony, which was held at the Civic Centre on Victoria Island, was the running of a documentary on Ambode’s public service career.

Dignitaries at the event included Second Republic Senator Habib Fashinro; Dr. Adeniyi Coker; former Lagos State Head of Service Babatunde Rotinwa; Senator Ajayi Boroffice; Mr. Ayo Opadokun; Prof. Ademola Abass; House of Assembly members - Mr. Rotimi Abiru, Mrs. Lola Akande and Mrs. Ramata Akinola; former Physical Planning Commis-

By Emmanuel Oladesu, Group Political Editor

and Musa Odoshimokhe.

sioner Francisca Abosede; his Local Government and Chieftaincy counterpart, Prince Rotimi Agunsoye; Apena Kaoli Olusanya; Pa Abiodun Sunmola; Pa M.A. Taiwo; Chief Akanni SerikiBamu; Chief Funso Ologunde; Alhaji Lanre Rasak and Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo (SAN).

Others are Mr. Ganiyu Johnson; Chief Tayo Oyemade; Mr. Segun Odusanya; Prof. Fidelis Odita (SAN); Mr. Lateef Ibirogba; Mr. Toun Adediran; Mr. Obafemi Durosinmi; Mr. Bolaji Ariyoh; Mr. Paul Kalejaye; Mr. Niyi Ifemade; Mr. Tunde Temionu; Mr. Tunde Braimoh; Mr. Akeem Oris; Mr. Charles Ekwilo and Azizat Tijani.

Traditional rulers from Epe and some parts of Aworiland were also present.

Ambode was accompanied to the event by his wife, Bolanle; associates and relations.

Oba Akiolu said although the ceremony was the presentation of books, the event had a political connotation.

He reflected on the succession battle in Lagos State, saying monarchs and elders have a role to play in it.

The monarch said Lagos elders and traditional rulers will not support a non-indigene for governor.

He said the choice of the candidate may trigger criticisms, reminiscent of how Fashola emerged as the flag bearer in 2007, but they would be resolved before the general election.

Oba Akiolu, who spoke in Yoruba and English, said: “It is true that we are launching a book, but we know why we are here. Some aspirants have sent delegations to me. But, I strongly believe that only God can choose a leader. The elders of Lagos have said that Ambode will be governor.

“You will still meet in your party and take a decision on who will be governor. But, in my capacity and in accordance with the wish of God and the elders around, I will make my position clear on this matter. When you see someone that is dancing upstairs, you should know that some people are beating the drums downstairs for him.

“The elders have been meeting. I have not for once gone out of my way without giv-

•From left: Oba Akeem Adesanya; Ambode’s wife, Bolanle; Ambode; Oba Akiolu; Dr. Adebule; Fasinro and Oba Aderibigbe PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA Asunmo, holding copies of one of the books...yesterday.

‘When you see someone that is dancing upstairs, you should know that some people are beating the drums downstairs for him.’ ing due respect to whom it is due. We review things regularly. My father, Senator Fashinro, who will be 95 in September, and Dr. Adeniyi Coker, who will be 89 on his next birthday, usually come to my palace. The elders have said that Ambode should be the next governor of Lagos State. Other aspirants have the right to aspire too. But, I will not open my eyes and allow the son of the Oba of Ewekoro to be the governor. But all things are in the hand of God Almighty.”

The monarch prayed that God should continue to endow Ambode with wisdom so that he can triumph over his rivals, adding: “God will help you. You will triumph. God will give you wisdom. Nobody can predict any human being, until he finds himself in a position of authority. God will stand by you. The alfas and bishops will stand by you.

Whoever gangs up against you will not triumph over

you. Before I became the Oba of Lagos, many things were said against me. In respect of my son, Fashola, you can see the level of his achievement in Lagos. You will surpass his achievements.”

Urging other aspirants to be understanding “when Ambode becomes the candidate”, the monarch said he was confident that they would work for his success.

Oba Akiolu added: “Those of you that are annoyed, you should be patient. He (Ambode) is not from Ilaje. He is a Lagosian and he will be governor.”

Tinubu described the former Accountant-General as an uncommon civil servant, a good and accountable leader and highly dependable technocrat, stressing that his life is full of lessons.

Lauding the financial expert and author, he recalled that Ambode graduated at 21, bagged a masters degree and became a chartered accountant at 24 and emerged as a reputable financial expert at 27.

The former Lagos State governor said when the opposition instigated the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against the Lagos State government, nothing incriminating was found because Ambode was in charge at the ministry.

Tinubu said: “Beyond rhetorics, what is most signifi-

‘Zone Lagos governorship seat to Badagry Division’

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GROUP, the Gunuvi Rights Initiative of Nigeria (GRIN), has urged the leadership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Lagos State to zone the governorship seat to Badagry Division in 2015.

In a statement its President, Mr. Bokoh Seyido, and Secretary Isaac Ogunbiyi, the group disagreed said it was not happy with a media report that the governorship seat had been zoned to Lagos East.

It said: “Our attention has been drawn to the recent publication in The Punch of Wednesday, April 23, in

By Innocent Duru

which the Interim spokesman of Lagos APC, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, said the party had zoned the governorship seat to the East Zone.

“We hereby use this medium to make it clear to the government and the party that the people of EgunAvori extraction of Badagry Division do not agree with this position.”

The group said no member of the division was appointed commissioner, adding: “We are not unaware of the grand plan to ostracise original indigenes of the

‘Our division and our people have been marginalised and treated as second class citizens.’ state in its management. Our view is based on the happenings in the political appointment/elective arrangement since 1999 till date. Our division and our people have been marginalised and treated as second class citizens.

“We demand that come 2015, Badagry Division should produce the next governor because it is the only eligible division to do so. We want political posts be shared evenly among the five divisions and that five indigenes of each division be appointed as commissioners.

“The government should use the quota system in the distribution of projects among the 20 local government areas and the 37 local council development authorities and make education free at all levels for all indigenes.”

cant in all we do here today is the lesson to learn as individuals, friends and foes from the inspiring life of our dear celebrant. Today, we identify with Ambode as that young, ambitious and highly determined Nigerian, who started his humble beginning at Epe to become a public finance management expert and Chief Executive Officer of Brandsmiths Consulting Limited.

“We recall with pride his exemplary public service as Accountant-General of Lagos State.

“This was at the time the opposition was holding on to our money. You appreciate the value of an accountant when the EFCC is sniffing around your government.

During the period when the opposition was scoffing with its guard dogs, trying to find something, not a single case could be made because of the quality of the accountant. “ Without mincing words, I dare say that the lessons from his inspiring life are many. I must say a good leader must have selfless service as a guiding credo. We all know that Nigeria would have been a great place today if our leaders were guided by selfless service. And what is the service all about? It is about personal sacrifice for the state; it is the rare capacity to subsume one’s whims and caprices to the socio-economic

and political development of the state. This has been amply demonstrated by Ambode that a leader must render selfless service.”

Fashola described Ambode as a unique character, who rendered invaluable service to Lagos.

He said the chartered accountant was an influential personality, motivator, consummate administrator and great financial manager.

Mrs. Osa-Oboh described Ambode as always eager to make impact and create lasting legacies, adding that the book is not an exaggeration.

She said his life had shown that leadership is critical to human development.

Owolabi said the book is as qualitative as the author, pointing out that Ambode mirrored his school teacherfather, who always insisted on quality.

He added: “Ambode is a man of fine details.”

Ambode thanked the royal fathers for their support.

He thanked ICAN for giving him a chartered status at 21; his parents for proper upbringing; and Tinubu and Fashola, for mentoring him.

Ambode said: “When you work under the guidiance of these two people, there is no room for failure. The letter of commendation by Governor Fashola is my guild medal for public service.”

45 arraigned for ‘jungle justice’

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From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

ORTY-five suspects have been arraigned in various locations in Ogun State for jungle justice, Commissioner of Police Ikemefuna Okoye said yesterday.

Speaking with reporters in his office at the Command Headquarters in Abeokuta, Okoye warned residents against jungle justice, advising them to report suspected criminals to the police.

He said: “The act of taking laws into one’s hand is criminal and a gross violation of people’s rights. It is barbaric to subject anybody to jungle justice on mere suspicion that such a person committed a crime.”

Okoye said those arraigned include 17 of the people that allegedly vandalised a two-storey building in Ijaiye, Abeokuta, on the suspicion that it was a ritualists’ den.

He said the police were hunting for some youths, who set the Ilaro home of Mr. Gabriel Olafenwa on fire and exhumed the remains of the man’s parents.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

10

CITYBEATS Body plans N350m secretariat T

By Okwy Ireogbu-Chikezie

DEVELOPERS in the informal sector, under the aegis of Association of Real Estate Developers of Lagos State (AREDOLS), are planning to build a N360million multipurpose secretariat.

The association will also launch vehicles to monitor construction projects being undertaken by members.

The event will hold at Degree Events Centre at Oregun, Ikeja on May 18, the body’s chairman, Prince Nureni Akinsanya, said.

The ceremony will be chaired by Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon. Other guests expected include: Governor Babatunde Fashola; Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Ibeto Group’s Chief Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto; Mr. Femi Otedola; Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Commissioner for Works, Obafemi Hamzat, Chairman, MITV, Chief Muritala Gbadeyanka; Dr Jimi Agbaje and Mamman Tsafe.

Oron people celebrate

THE maiden Oron Nation Thanksgiving Day in Lagos will hold on May 23 by the Oron people of Akwa Ibom State. The event, which will have the Governor Godswill Akpabio as Special Guest of Honour, will hold at the Oron House, Isolo, Lagos.

The Catholic Archbishop of Calabar Archdiocese, Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Ekuwem will lead other clerics in a special interdenominational service to mark the Day. In a statement, the group’s Publicity Secretary, Mr John Nduonyi, the event will feature talks, games, recreational activities and dinner.

There will be the presentation of a paper titled: “The Politics of Land and Sea in Nigeria; Redefining Political and Economic Engagement in Oro Nation.”

Service for Pa Popoola, wife

THE final outing service for Elder Solomon Bamidele Popoola who died on October 21, 2013 at the age of 89 will take place tomorrow.

One of his sons, Mr Benjamin Popoola, who spoke for the family, said: “The service will hold at the Church of the Lord Aladura (Gbinrinmi Alagbado) by 10am; guests will be entertained at the Agbado District Comprehensive High School, Oke-Aro, Ogun State.

The deceased, a native of Ijaiye in Abeokuta, was at different times, Sales and Purchasing Manager of Adebowale Electrical Industries, Lagos, before he retired into private business about two decades ago.

“We will also celebrate the life of our mother, Madam Esther Oluremi Popoola, who died in 1983,” the statement added.

• The late Popoola

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

HERE was panic on Lagos Island yesterday following the discovery of three objects suspected to be explosives.

The objects, which resembled big fireworks, were detected about 8 am by some residents at a junction close to a branch of Access Bank on Nnamdi Azikiwe Street, Lagos.

The spot is a stone’s throw to the Central Mosque.

A trader told The Nation that when the news spread, traders hurriedly closed their shops and rushed the scene. “By the time we got there, we discovered that the anti-bomb unit of the police had cordoned off the place in efforts to remove the objects,” the trader said” Trading stopped for hours as people ran for their lives. Banks were hurriedly shut to keep hoodlums at bay.

At Tejuosho Market, those who refused to enter their shops for fear of an explosion were reassured after rescue officers searched the area with bomb detectors and found nothing.

A version of the story said a policeman suspected a man who came in a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) to distribute N1,000 notes to beggars, who he asked to leave the area before driving off.

Riot policemen and other security agencies attached to the Central Business District (CBD), according to reports, were the first to rise to the occasion.

Around noon, sources said operatives of the Anti-Bomb Squad packed the objects into their vehicle marked LSR276BP and drove off. The Divisional Police Officer

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• Policemen and some traders at the scene ... yesterday

Panic in Lagos over bomb scare

•Police, NEMA dispel rumour

By Jude Isiguzo, Precious Igbonwelundu and Miriam Ekene-okoro

(DPO), Ebute-Ero, John Otahunmele, a Chief Superintendent (CSP) led the team.

Police spokesperson Ngozi Braide, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP), said the contents of the abandoned bag found at the spot were not explosives but sealants.

In an official statement,

the command said: “About 8.35am, upon information that there were some suspicious items in the Tom Jones area by Nnamdi Azikwe Street, Lagos Island, operatives were quickly mobilised to the scene. The team recovered the items for analysis.

However, the result of the test revealed that the items are sealants used in industries. Sealant is like gum and has no explosive com-

ponent. Meanwhile, the area is calm and security very tight in Lagos, please.

“The items might have probably fallen out from someone’s load as they are items that are commonly used. Lagosians are advised to go about their normal duties as there is no cause for alarm.”

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) also described as a hoax, reports that the items were explo-

sives.

The agency’s spokesman, Ibrahim Farinloye, urged residents to go about their businesses, insisting that the news was false. “It is not true. We have gone to the areas and I have also contacted the Anti-Bomb Squad to ascertain if any such thing was recovered. They said it was untrue. So, people should not be scared and should also not hesitate to report any suspicious object to the authorities,” he said.

Agbara. They rushed into my car and kept driving me from that point. They forced me to lie face down in my car as they held a gun to my head. I was begging them not to kill me.

When we got to somewhere in Ajangbadi, they stripped me completely naked.

“They threw me into a ditch and drove off with my car. I later picked myself up from the mud and stood by the road. I was calling out to people to help me, but they thought I was a mad man. When no help came, I decided to trek to Ajangbadi that night. At Ajangbadi, I went to the police station

there, but the policemen mistook me for a mad man and refused to attend to me. I begged them before they took me in and gave me clothes to wear. It was a terrible experience.”

The native doctor denied involvement, saying: “I don’t know anything about this armed robbery and car snatching. I am a native doctor and those men the police saw me with are my clients. I know the one they call Nnamdi.

He is the owner of the Toyota Camry car the police said was stolen.

Nnamdi fled and abandoned the car when he saw the policemen. I am innocent.”

Native doctor held for alleged robbery, murder

NATIVE doctor, who allegedly prepares charm for a gang of robbers that specialises in car snatching, have been arrested by the police in Lagos.

Police sources said the suspect, Donatus Nwankalor, is also being investigated for the alleged murder of some of his gang’s victims.

Nwankalor was arrested by operatives attached to the Pedro Police Station, Shomolu, on Lagos Mainland.

He is being quizzed by detectives over his alleged involvement in some robbery operations in the metropolis.

The suspect is also assisting investigators to track down some members of his gang who are at large.

Police sources said Nwankalor, an indigene of Anagu-Ikem-Nando town in Anambra East Local Government Area, is believed to belong to a robbery gang that specialises in snatching cars from Lagos State and selling them in the east.

The suspect is also alleged to have killed some of his victims through diabolical means, while shoot-

By Jude Isiguzo

ing others.

Nwankalor was arrested following a report by a victim, Agbata Emmanuel, whose Toyota Camry was allegedly snatched by the gang at Ajangbadi, a Lagos suburb, in April.

The incident was reported at the Pedro Police Station from where operatives traced the car to Anambra State where it was recovered in the suspect’s home.

Nwankalor’s suspected accomplices, who were with him when the operatives came, fled.

Narrating how the suspected robbers snatched

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‘I don’t know anything about this armed robbery and car snatching. I am a native doctor and those men the police saw me with are my clients’ his car at gunpoint, the victim said: “I was heading back to my house along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway around 10.30pm in early April when some armed robbers numbering about four stopped me at

Litigants groan over flooded courtrooms

AWYERS and litigants are lamenting the state of some Lagos High Court; they are therefore, urging the government to look unto the problem.

Courtrooms at the foyer were flooded when it rained on Wednesday and early yesterday because of their leaking roofs.

But for the insistence of Justice Adeniyi Adebajo that trial of suspected killers of Funsho Williams must go

By Precious Igbonwelundu

on, those in his court, who were scampering for seats in areas with less water, were praying for an adjournment.

After waiting till 12.10pm for the rain to stop, the judge began proceedings, but the sound of raindrops and splashing water inside the court prevented him from hearing counsel clearly.

Justice Adebajo subsequently directed that Justice

Olateru Olagbegi’s court which is next to his, should be used, when it was obvious the trial could not hold in his court.

But Justice Olagbegi’s court was no better, as the roof was leaking and everywhere was flooded.

Apparently disturbed some, lawyers who spoke with The Nation, urged the government not to allow the high court rooms deteriorate like some Magis-

trates’ Courts.

“I know Lagos judiciary has the best facilities and that the government is trying, but such sights are disturbing. Since we cannot stop the rain from falling, we should ensure that some lazy judges are not given reasons to boycott work. Justice Adebajo would have been justified if he had adjourned this matter because it is not a pleasant sight at all,” said a lawyer.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

11

NEWS (SHOWBIZ)

•Fela

•Biyi Bandele (right) with Chiwetel Ejiofor

Half of a Yellow Sun released in U.S.

A

FTER its premiere last fall at Toronto’s International Film Festival, Nollywood/Hollywood production, Half of a Yellow Sun, will begin screening in the United States today.

Half of a Yellow Sun was re-

Stories by Dupe Ayinla-Olasunkanmi

leased in Britain last month and was among the top 10 last Easter.

According to Biyi Bandele, the Nigerian-born director of

the movie, “eighty percent of the money came from Nigeria.

That never happened before. It’s the biggest movie ever made in Nigeria.”

The film marks a milestone for Nigeria’s film industry, which exploded in the ’90s with

Ehiliz partners STV on Vivid Views

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OPULAR gospel singer Ehigiamusoe Elizabeth, also known as Ehiliz, is set to launch a new concept tagged Vivid View, which is an orientation-inclined TV programme.

Vivid Views, which is being planned in partnership with STV, is designed to restore decency, morality, peace, love, patriotism and corporation among the Nigerian youths. ”This new TV programme seeks to address the idea of building an egalitarian society devoid of corruption, kidnappings, terrorism, child abuse, cultism, tribal and religious conflicts, divorces, unemployment and using the youth as political stooges to create disharmony in the society,” she said.

Ehiliz, who said the programme is targeted at youths between the ages of 18 and 30

years, further explained that, “Because we believe in positivity, Vivid View is set to improve lives based on the various issues to be addressed. We believe that the youths will act on the information and teachings that will be provided. We want to make it the most-watched television programme that will be a reference point globally, in terms of its call to peace and development,” she added.

As part of its unique concept, the programme will invite technocrats in various fields of endeavour to speak, inform and educate the youth on topical issues.

Ehiliz, who will be celebrating 20 years as a gospel artiste in September, has received awards of excellence from different organisations, including Christian Gospel Artistes Association of Nigeria (CGAAN), Edo State, Christ Chosen Church of God International, Niger Del-

•Ehigiamusoe

ta Christian Peace Movement (NDCPM), Niger Delta Awards, Development Pillar Award and Nollyfans Achievement Award, among others.

Ehiliz, who holds a Master’s degree in Finance from the University of Benin, Edo State, has so far produced seven albums: Behold I Stand, Jesus Na No 1, It is Well, BE My Guide, Come Back,Quality Praise and Sweet Home.

Naija Street Champ: Six talents shine at auditions

A

S the quest for the winner in the Naija Street Champ continues, it was all excitement for youngsters who turned out in large number to showcase their talents at Kuwait Playground, Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos and Emmanuel School Playground, Ojota, last weekend.

The budding street talents took to the stage, one after the other, to thrill the audience. They were tasked to freestyle to a pre-downloaded beat produced by D’tunes,

•ID Cabasa

one of the renowned producers who had partnered with the organizers of the project.

At the end of the two auditions, six street champs were selected for the second round, three from each zone respectively. The lucky contestants were Shanuolu Adesola, Arekong David, Destiny, Victor Ugboko, Yusuf Tayo and Adenuga Abiodun.

Top music producer, ID Cabasa, who was present at the Ipaja auditions, shared his experience with the audience. According to him, “I was once like you because I come from the streets of Bariga. There are many of you here, who will be bigger than Tuface, 9ice, Olamide, D’banj and others. All you have to do is showcase your talent and tomorrow, you could be the next big act in the Nigerian music industry.”

At the Ojota auditions, another ace producer, Terry G, encouraged the promising acts to take on the Nigerian music

scene seriously.

The auditions continue this weekend at Maracana Stadium Ajegunle for the Ajegunle zone and F.H.A Playground for the Festac zone, respectively.

The organisers, however, said registrations would still be opened till the end of the first round auditions.

As part of requirements for the auditions, contestants would need to obtain a login pin at any branch of FCMB and log in with the pin at www.naijastreetchamp.com to complete the registration form.

“The contest beat is available on the website for free download. Contestants are expected to download the beat, rehearse to it at home and show up at the audition location to freestyle to the beat. No pre-recorded CD will be allowed,” said the organisers.

the growth of home videos.

“The future of Nigerian film is very rosy. In the next decade, the world is going to be hearing a lot from Nigerian filmmakers and young filmmakers who grew up within the Nollywood tradition and then went to film schools. I’m really excited about the prospect of Nigerian cinema in the next decade,” Bandele added.

Half of a Yellow Sun is a love story set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s civil war that divided the country between 1967 and 1970. It’s based on Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s bestselling novel of the same name.

Finding Fela goes to theatres in August

A

FTER a successful outing at the Sun Dance world premiere in January, North America will have the opportunity to view Finding Fela, a documentary directed by Alex Gibney.

Art House distributor Kino Lorber has acquired all North American rights to Finding Fela, which Okayafrica/Okayplayer co-produced alongside Jigsaw Productions and Knitting Factory Entertainment.

All is set for a national theatrical run, beginning in August. The film is scheduled to hit NYC first, with an exclusive engagement at the IFC Center on August 1, followed by openings in Washington DC (Landmark’s E

•Gibney

Street Cinema), Los Angeles (Landmark’s Nuart Theatre), San Francisco (Landmark’s Opera Plaza), Philadelphia (Landmark’s Ritz at the Bourse), Boston (Landmark’s Kendall Square) as well as Atlanta (Landmark’s Midtown).

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

12

BUSINESS EXTRA

No going back on subsidy removal, says FAAC

T

HE Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has said it will sustain its campaign to get fuel subsidy removed once and for all by the Federal Government.

Addressing journalists at the end of the April FAAC meeting in Abuja yesterday, Chairman, Finance Commissioners Forum of FAAC Mr Timothy Odah, said the committee it set up to investigate issues of petroleum subsidy was still carrying on with its work.

Odah said the Finance

From Nduka Chiejina, (Asst. Editor)

Commissioners’ Forum is determined to ensure the removal of the petroleum subsidy which recommendation it had submitted to the Federal Government.

In March this year, a committee comprising six Accountants-Generals and Commissioners for Finance was mandated to investigate the impact of subsidy on the country.

At the end of the plenary session of the FAAC meeting

yesterday, the sum of N634.721 billion was shared between the Federal Government, States and Local Government as revenue for the month of April.

The Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr Jonah Otunla, told journalists that “the distributable statutory revenue for the month of April was N533.746 billion, less than the N534.907 billion that was shared for the month of March.

According to him: “The total revenue distributable for the current month, including

Value Added Tax (VAT) of N65.425 billion is N634.721 billion. The sum of N35.55 billion is proposed for distribution under the SURE-P programme.”

A breakdown of the distribution showed that the Federal Government received N249.060 billion representing 52.68 per cent; states got N126.327 billion, representing 26.72 per cent, while local governments got a cheque of N97.392 billion, amounting to 20.6 per cent.

Otunla also disclosed that N55.2 billion, representing

13 per cent derivation revenue was shared among the oil producing states. The mineral revenue collected for April was N474.881 billion, less than the N519.990 billion realised in March representing a difference of N45.109 billion.

The non-mineral revenue collected during the period under review was N109.27 billion. The figure, showed an increase of N14.902 billion from the N94.368 billion that was collected in March.

Otunla lamented that oil revenue for April declined

when compared to the previous month, but N50.405 billion was transferred to the nation’s Excess Crude Account (ECA) which is a decline from the N79.45 billion that was transferred the previous month. However, the transfer increased the amount in the ECA to $3.6 billion.

The AGF attributed the decline to production shut-in at Qua Iboe and Yoho Terminals, shut down of Forcados and Bonny terminals, and repair works on Bonny and Brass Terminals due to oil theft and pipeline leakages.

Low grade cement worries lawmakers

L

• From left: Head, Digital Media, Etisalat Nigeria, Adia Sowho; Digital Business Development Director EMEA, BBC Worldwide, Isla McLeod; and Head, Corporate Communications, High Value Events & Sponsorships, Etisalat Nigeria, Ebi Atawodi; at the Etisalat Sponsored 2014 Mobile West Africa, held at Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos...yesterday

65% of registered firms owe two years’ tax, says Okonjo-Iweala A

BOUT 65 per cent of registered firms have been in areas of their tax returns in the last two years, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has said.

Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala who made this known yesterday at the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum organised by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), also stated that 75 per cent of registered companies, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), are not captured in the tax net of the FIRS. She said government has opened communication channel with tax payers to enable it hear from them so that the revenue loss to government could be stopped.

She said: “We are accepting that there are areas we may need to hear and improve, but we also want to tell them what we are doing.”

She said government is engaging in the process of increasing its non-oil taxes.

Okonjo-Iweala said: “Every Nigerian wants to see us depend less on oil, and more on the other resources of the economy.

• FIRS partners experts to improve operations

By Simeon Ebulu

“So we want to share with them that we are actually doing that work now, and that we want them to cooperate with us, let them be ambassadors for good tax compliance. We wanted to share with them some of the findings because 65 per cent of companies have not filed their taxes for the past two years from the study that was done.

“A situation whereby 75 per cent of registered companies are not registered in the tax data, we need to step up our efforts.’’

Also speaking, the Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr Kabir Mashi, said the Service has engaged Mckinsey and Company to implement Capacity Enhancement Programme (CEP) to help improve nonoil tax collection.

He said CEP has been useful in improving other indi-

ces of measurement, adding that the FIRS embarked on the programme as a specific intervention to uplift the organisation in its quest to become efficient.

He said the enhancement programme was adopted as it would assist FIRS to proactively support government’s aspirations, particularly in making the nation’s economy one of the largest in the world.

“With the intervention of CEP, we have some key initiatives as a platform for achieving our goal. These initiatives are in the areas of audits, arrears and debt enforcement as well as tax exemptions,” Mashi said.

He said others include evasion of tax in terms of high net worth transactions and rentals; registration and improved communication to enhance compliance.

The FIRS chief said the forum was organised to reassure tax payers that the organisation appreciated their

efforts in contributing to national development by paying taxes.

“We are constantly seeking to improve upon our performance and we ask that you buy into our initiatives as we roll them out.

“As we implement these initiatives, we shall interact with you more closely and hope you see yourselves as partners in national development,’’ he said.

Also speaking on the occasion, the Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, urged the FIRS to employ the ‘naming and shaming approach’ in enforcing tax compliance among stakeholders.

Dangote said faithful tax payers should be openly celebrated, while defaulters should also be openly warned if a roundtable discussion would not make them comply.

Other stakeholders at the forum urged the Federal Government to find a way of harmonising tax collections in different states.

They said if government harmonised tax collections, it will help to boost the level of tax compliance among Nigerians.

Shell resumes crude lifting from Forcados terminal

A

FTER 51 days of clo sure, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Joint Venture yesterday lifted force majeure declared on lifting of crude from the Forcados Terminal in the Western Niger Delta.

SPDC’s Media Relations Manager, Precious Okolobo, said crude lifting resumed at exacting 09: 00 hours Nigerian time. With the resumption of operation at the terminal, about 400,000 barrels

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

per day of crude would be added to the country’s daily exports.

Okolobo said: “SPDC lifts force majeure on crude exports from Forcados effective 09:00hrs (Nigerian time) today. SPDC JV lifted the force majeure on crude oil exports from Forcados Terminal following removal of a crude theft point on the export line. The subsea line was shut when a

leak was discovered on March 4, 2014, leading to the declaration of force majeure on March 25 to allow for repair work.”

Shell had on March 25, 2014, shut down the Forcados Terminal due to repair works on the 48-inch crude export line at theterminal. The company had said that the subsea line at the terminal was shut when a leak was discovered on March 4, 2014,, which led to suspension of SPDC and

third party crude oil exports through the terminal.

Shell also said that helicopter overflights showed a slight sheen around the export line and a joint investigation conducted by representatives of communities, SPDC, regulators and security agencies determined that the leak was caused by third party interference; unknown persons had installed a crude theft point on the line in water depth of about eight metres.

AWMAKERS conduct ing a Public Hearing on the composition and pigmentation of cement have expressed their worry over the continuing production of low-grade and substandard cement in the country.

The House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on the composition and pigmentation of cement in the country led by its chairman Hon Yakubu Dogara opened a Public Hearing yesterday aimed at addressing the phenomenon of collapse building in the country.

Speaking, the Committee chairman reasoned why Nigeria should continue to produce low-grade 32.5 cement while the rest of the world including India and China are producing 42.5 grade.

In his opening remarks, Hon Dogara said:” There is no gainsaying the fact that the serial incidence of building collapse in the country has become a source of anxiety.”

He said: “ Some have blamed substandard material including cement, while others have blamed it(collapse building) on lack of regula-

tory framework.”

Contributing, President of the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigerian, Engr Joseph Makoju, said the 42.5 grade is superior cement over 32.5 and that Nigeria used to produce and import 42.5 before the coming of 32.5 grade.

Contributing, Hon Ayi Essien, a member of the ad hoc committee said Nigerians are worried about the quality of cement as well as the professional administration of the cement in construction work.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal had said while declaring the Hearing open that Nigeria would not relent in its effort to unraveling the causes of collapse building in the country.

It would be recalled that the Dangote Cement Plc had announced that it has upgraded its cement to 42.5R, making it the only cement manufacturer in the country that produces that higher grade in line with the specification and requirement of Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

NERC reduces 60% charge for GENCOs as revenue dips • Fed Govt to get gas from export section

T

HE Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commis sion (NERC) has reduced 60 per cent capacity charge for the Electricity Generation Companies (GENCOs) due for this month following losses of revenue in the industry.

The Managing Director, Egbin Power Plant, Mr. Kenneth Uzoigwe disclosed this yesterday while crying out to the Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo over the firm’s loss of N570million revenue due to lack of gas and electricity meters.

He said: ”NERC has tried to encourage the generation companies mitigating the loss of revenue, by allowing us take away 60 per cent of this month of our capacity charge. Even the market operator is not what it should be. We are just accumulating debt.”

He urged the Federal Government to act urgently to arrest the situation. Uzoigwe noted that the current revenue profile of the firm from November 1 to date, is a daunting data for would-be investors.

He said: “Our experience after privatisation has been undesirable . Let me just use that

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

mild word because as at the end of last month, our books showed that we were losing revenue to the tune of N570million doing business from November 1 to date .

“The revenue profile in the industry is very poor. And if other investors look at it, it may give results that may not be desirable for the country.“ Uzoigwe who spoke during the minister’s visit to the NERC office in Abuja, noted that despite the investment of N7billion in the power plant that has 1,180 Mega Watts (Mw) generating capacity, the station can only generate 600Mw. He regretted that Egbin Power Plant cannot take advantage of its economic of scale in the industry.

The CEO said: “One thing is to have available capacity another thing is to have reliability. We have brought Egbin to the point where it is reliable for 1,180Mw. But Hon. Minister, in the last three months, we have been generating only about 600Mw and we can’t take advantage of economies of scale in the business we are doing. We are losing revenue continuously.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

15

PEOPLE THE NATION

A SIX -PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

As As expected, expected, Ijebu-Ode Ijebu-Ode in in Ogun Ogun State State stood stood still still for for the the Awujale Awujale and and Paramount Paramount Ruler Ruler of of Ijebuland, Ijebuland, Oba Oba Sikiru Sikiru Kayode Kayode Adetona, Adetona, during during the the grand grand finale finale of of his his 80 80 birthday birthday celebration, celebration, last last Saturday.

Saturday.

ERNEST ERNEST NWOKOLO NWOKOLO was was at at the the Dipo Dipo Dina Dina International International Stadium Stadium where where the the ceremony ceremony took took place. place.

•The celebrator, Oba Adetona (second left) assisted by (from left) Oba Adeyemi; Oba Akiolu; Obi Achebe; Oba Gbadebo and Otunba Balogun to cut the cake

Awujale joins octogenarian club F

OR a week, Ijebuland was agog. The community was a beehive of activites with an air of festivity. It was celebrating the Awujale and its Paramout Ruler, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who clocked 80.

The week-long colourful birthday bash was rounded-off with a grand luncheon/ party at the Otunba Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, last Saturday.

Expectedly, the carnival-like ceremony witnessed a crowd of prominent Nigerians and expatriates, which cut across religions, politics, tribes and continents. They came to felicitate with the Oba. Following expectations that President Goodluck Jonathan would be attending the event, there was a heavy presence of security operatives - the Army, Police, State Security Service (SSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC) and members of the Vigilante Service of Ogun State (VSO). So, security was tight in Ijebu-Ode and its evirons.

The stadium was cordoned off by the security operatives.

Unwanted guests could not come within 500 metres radius of the venue. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Ogun State's traffic agency - TRACE - and private guards ensured strict compliance. Guests were thoroughly screened before they were allowed into the venue of the luncheon.

Prior to Oba Adetona’s 80th birthday celebration, a world press conference was organised by a group of professionals under the aegis of the Ijebu Renaissance Group (IRG).

The six-day event began on Sunday, May 4, with a special thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church Saviour, Italowajoda-Ijasi, Ijebu-Ode, according to the spokesman of the group, Chief Adetokunboh Fassy Yussuf, who was the deputy chairman of the Publicity sub-committee of the

planning committee for the birthday celebration.

On Tuesday, May 6, the celebration shifted to the Adeola Odutola Events Hall, where a colloquium on the Ijebu nation and a coffee-table book on Oba Adetona was presented to the public.

There was a football match the following day at the stadium.

It was followed by a grand reception at the Oba S.K. Adetona Golden Jubilee Centre, Ijebu-Ode, where about 50 monarchs in Ijebuland paid homage to the Awujale.

On Friday, a Jum'at service was held at the Ijebu Ode Central Mosque.

Last Saturday, the grand finale featured a luncheon at the

‘You are a role model and a monarch that respects all offices. My administration would not have achieved all that we have been able to record if not for your advice and fatherly role in ensuring that we did not fail’

marquee inside the stadium.

It began with a prayer by the Chief Imam of Ijebu-Ode, Sheikh Abdur-Razaq Salaudeen.

The luncheon featured the cutting of the birthday cake and a toast before dignitaries took turns to shower encomiums on the celebrator.

President Goodluck Jonathan, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Oladeinde Arogbofa, extolled Awujale, saying he contributed immensely to the development of Nigeria.

Jonathan described the monarch as a "big masquerade" whose wealth of experience has helped the country in no small measure.

Jonathan said: "I deeply appreciate what you, Kabiyesi, have been doing in Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria. You have contributed immensely to the development of good governance in the country. Our revered father, you should continue to do those things that you have been doing so well."

Former Military Head of State and All Progressives Congress (APC) national leader General Muhammadu Buhari eulogised Oba Adetona for his forthrightness at all times.

Buhari described him as a lucky monarch who has seen the nation's trying political processes.

Former Lagos State Governor and also APC national leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu said Adetona was an "honest and courageous person."

Describing Oba Adetona as the best traditional ruler in Yorubaland, Tinubu said the Awujale attained such status because of his doggedness and truthfulness.

He said when the military junta targeted the Yoruba, Oba Adetona was among those pencilled down for assassination.

•Continued on page 16

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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SOCIETY AWUJALE JOINS OCTOGENARIAN CLUB •Continued from page 15

Tinubu said: ” Kabiyesi, you are a good father and monarch. I remember in 1991, 1992 and 1993, during the military junta, when the Yoruba were the target of the then government, they thought they could silence you; they planned to kill you; they planned to remove you through a local government.

But they failed. They did it to Sultan of Sokoto then and they succeeded.

You stood by us; you stood by the truth and, despite all humiliation, depression and attack, you remained resolute and unshaken. ''One of those days, I will never forget in my life was the day you invited us to your palace for one of our meetings. When we got there and were about to commence our meeting, we were told that the military had surrounded the palace with mighty guns. You told us then that there was no problem, and we should continue our meeting. You said they didn't know that there are many ways into the palace. After our meeting, you personally opened another door for us and nothing happened to us.”

Tinubu went on:''You are not part of the Obas in Yorubaland, who are sell-outs. We know them, and it is not yet time to mention names. In Yorubaland today, you are the best monarch, and that is not contestable.

"The good Obas in Yorubaland, who are forthright, firm and stand by the truth are not up to five, they are just three. May you live long with good health and abundant God's blessings."

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun described the paramount ruler as a "colossus and a peacemaker."

Amosun named the first flyover in the town after the royal father.

Amosun said: "We are grateful to God on your behalf for coming thus far. You are a role model and a monarch that respects all offices. My administration would not have achieved all that we have been able to record if not for your advice and fatherly role in ensuring that we did not fail. You are an experienced Oba and we are honouring you today.

We mark your 80th birthday with the naming of the first flyover bridge in the town after you."

The gathering cheered him.

His Bayelsa State counterpart, Seriake Dickson, whose grandmother was an Ijebu princess, praised the monarch for his good works and wished him many peaceful years on the throne. He described Oba Adetona as an exceptional ruler.

Oba Adetona thanked the guests for honouring him. He expressed gratitude to his Creator for making him to join the league of octogenarians, despite his early challenges in life.

Oba Adetona said: "The beginning was a bit rough, but I thank Almighty Allah that today we are rejoicing. I am grateful to Allah for blessing all my activities. I promise that I will continue to stand on the side of truth."

A cultural dance troupe of women in traditional attire with strands of beads woven around their heads entertained the gathering. The troupe came from Akoko-Ado, Ondo State.

Popular musician-turned evangelist Ebenezer Obey was at his usual best, thrilling guests with old and new tunes.

In attendance were the Alaafin of Oyo Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; the Obi of Onitsha, Dr Nnaemeka Achebe; the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu; the Alake and Paramount of Egbaland, Oba Michael Gbadebo; the Akarigbo of Remoland Oba Adeniyi Sonariwo; the Paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; the Osile of Oke-Ona, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso; the

•From left: Governor Amosun, his wife Funso and Asiwaju Tinubu

•From left: Gen Buhari; Pastor Bakare and Alhaji Masari

•Governor Dickson (left) and Brig-Gen Arogbofa

•Olori Kemi Adetona

•Dr Adenuga

•From left: Aremo Osoba, his wife Derin and Otunba Daniel

•Gen Adeyinka Adebayo and wife

•Justice George Oguntade (left) and Chief Kessington Adebutu

•Alhaji Dangote

•Dr Adesina

•Senator Fasinro (left) and Alhaji Rasak Akanni Okoya

•Oba Otudeko

•Senator Mamora

of Companies chairman Oba Otudeko; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Bello Masari; Latter Rain Assembly Presiding Pastor, Tunde Bakare, Chief Razaq Okoya; Senator HAB Fasinro; APC Interim National Publicity Secretary Alhaji Lai Mohammed; former minister of

Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Senator Olorunimbe Mamora, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Mr Tunde Lemo; Iyalode of Yorubaland, Iyalode Alaba Lawson; Chairman, Insight Communications, Mr Biodun

Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Salawudeen Oyefusi; Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Yinusa Adekoya; the Olowu of Owu, Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu; former governors of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba and Otunba Gbenga Daniel, their Oyo State counterpart Dr Omololu Olunloyo; Minister of Agriculture,

Dr Akinwunmi Adesina; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; First City Monument Bank (FCMB) chairman Otunba Subomi Balogun; and Globacom chairman Chief Mike Adenuga.

Also the Chairman of People's Democratic Party (PDP), Mallam Adamu Mu'azu; Honeywell Group

•Continued on page 47

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIAL

Faith-fuelled anarchy

I

•The Kachia incident should never be allowed anywhere again

NTER-FAITH conflict, a regrettably recurrent challenge facing the country and which has arrested its progress, is in the news again following a violent clash between Christian and Muslim youths in Kachia town, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Reports said the destructive youths set fire to churches and mosques in the community, resulting in a 24-hour curfew imposed by the state government. The fighting was sparked by damage to the fence of an Islamic prayer-ground allegedly by unknown persons suspected to be Christians, which prompted retaliatory action by Muslims who attacked churches in the area and counter-moves

by Christians against mosques.

Fortunately, the condemnable destruction was limited to physical structures and did not claim lives. The police public relations officer in the state, Aminu Lawal, was quoted as saying, “The situation is under control as our men are fully on ground. No life was lost, but we don’t have the number of worship places that were burnt. We will let you know in due course as we don’t want to give wrong figures.”

Be that as it may, this official statement is disturbing by its suggestion that the scale of burning was high enough to make assessment difficult. Furthermore, the state government’s response by way of a 24-hour curfew is a worrying indication of the degree of social insecurity on account of the incident. It goes without saying that the effect of the seemingly extreme curfew would include paralysis

of not only social life but economic activities as well, for it amounts to a shutdown of society.

It is a pathetic reflection of just how far the country has gone on the undesirable path of religious disharmony that incidents such as this one continue to happen even in the context of the religion-inspired terror campaign of the Islamist militia Boko Haram and the consequent social upheaval that has attracted unfavourable international focus.

It must be emphasised that religious intolerance, which may not be unconnected with poverty, ignorance, indolence, indoctrination and brainwashing, cannot be the way to societal development. On the contrary, it is a manifestation of narrowmindedness that leads nowhere other than underdevelopment.

Indeed, the problem of faith-based prejudice, which is an underlying factor in the Kachia conflict, deserves greater attention, particularly given the country’s combustible multi-religious status. The secular authorities must not only demonstrate deeper appreciation of the situation; more critically, they must conceive and design enduring programmes of citizen enlightenment to spread awareness of the imperative of peaceful cohabitation, irrespective of religious differences.

Equally important is the nurturing of a culture of citizen confidence in the law, with the implication of discouragement of resort to self-help in disputes. Evidently, the situation would most likely not have escalated to the point of multiple burnings if the aggrieved had initially

sought the intervention of the police, rather than embark on a revenge mission that resulted in further complications. The truth is that there is no excuse for such self-imposing conduct, especially because of the grave possibility that it might promote disorder just as it happened in Kachia on May 11.

As things stand, it is certainly in the best interest of the community that the combatants should let peace reign and ensure a return to normalcy for the people. It is noteworthy that the disturbances were occasioned by sections of the populace that have no right whatsoever to inflict hardship on the larger society by their religious association. So, the authorities must investigate the incident and penalise those found culpable with a view to preventing a recurrence.

‘The secular authorities must not only demonstrate deeper appreciation of the situation; more critically, they must conceive and design enduring programmes of citizen enlightenment to spread awareness of the imperative of peaceful cohabitation, irrespective of religious differences’

Justice, jungle style

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• Citizens are taking laws into their hands in lynching and other barbarities

T remains to be seen whether the stern warning issued by the police in connection with the latest wave of lynching in the society will be heeded, which is unfortunate because the development is a strong pointer to public loss of confidence in the law, and a clear invitation to unwelcome anarchy. It is disturbing that in recent weeks there have been shocking reports of lynchings in Lagos, Oyo, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti states, most of them involving suspected kidnappers who were set ablaze by irate mobs.

Expectedly, in an official reaction to such revolting incidents, the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos Command, Ms. Ngozi Braide, declared, “Members of the public should not take the law into their own hands by lynching or burning

‘Tragically, kidnaps appear to be on the rise in the society, which seems to have triggered social defence mechanism that, ironically, suggests a disintegration of communal values just as the horrifying practice of abduction ... These happenings, whether considered in relation to the alleged kidnappers or the lynch mobs, not only provoke deep outrage; they also prompt immense wonder. The question is: Just what is happening?’

suspected kidnappers. The police would not condone such. Anybody caught doing that will face the wrath of the law.” However, it will evidently take more than the threat of sanctions to ensure compliance, mainly because the resort to “jungle justice” is, perhaps understandably, the effect of perceived crime as well as supposed police incapacity.

Instructively, in one instance in AbuleEgba, Lagos, where a woman was burnt to death by a mob, one of the enforcers of barbarity was quoted as saying, “We don’t want to give her the opportunity to secure freedom from police custody if she is arrested.” The truth, although regrettable, is that when people are not sure of the law, they take the law into their own hands. Fundamentally, therefore, it is of paramount importance to get the policing right.

On the other hand, the shortcomings of the police do not, and should not, provide any excuse for violent self-help, especially taking human life. Beyond the failings of the force, which are bad enough, it is much worse that people in human society, operating outside the law, not only conceive the idea of punishing others for alleged wrongdoing but also inflict punishment with mindless ruthlessness, even resulting in death. It is a striking and sobering paradox, the notion and practice of making someone pay for a suspected crime by committing a crime.

It goes without saying that “jungle justice” is basically flawed on account of the reality that it is perhaps more likely to be based on error and injustice than penalty

meted out after a proper trial. This significant downside, which is not to imply that there is an upside, was highlighted in a particular case in Oyo where members of the family of a lynched man, Lateef Gbadegesin, reportedly protested to the police, insisting on his innocence. “He does not keep late nights and has never been involved in undesirable acts,” they argued. A positive dimension is worth mentioning, which is that, in specific instances, the police reportedly rescued two alleged kidnappers from mobs in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Tragically, kidnaps appear to be on the rise in the society, which seems to have triggered social defence mechanism that, ironically, suggests a disintegration of communal values just as the horrifying practice of abduction. It is worrying that the latest cases involved young ones. Specifically, to mention a few, in Oyo, the alleged attempt to kidnap a seven-year-old girl, Anike Mufutau, resulted in the lynching of two men; in Lagos, a lynched woman was accused of trying to abduct three children; in Ekiti, a victim was said to have been found with a child’s body; and in Ondo, a suspected kidnapper was set ablaze in connection with a teenage boy.

These happenings, whether considered in relation to the alleged kidnappers or the lynch mobs, not only provoke deep outrage; they also prompt immense wonder. The question is: Just what is happening?

MERS is still a mystery virus

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AUDI ARABIA crossed a grim threshold Wednesday, announcing that the number of cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome, caused by a novel coronavirus, has exceeded 500 in the kingdom, with 157 deaths among them. The global number of MERS cases is now more than 570, with two of them recently reported in the United States.

At the same time, the World Health Organization declared that the disease has not yet reached the point of a “public health emergency of international concern.” The reason is that experts have not yet detected “evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission” of the kind that could lead to a pandemic. Clearly, there has been some transmission involving people in close contact with victims, such as relatives and health-care workers, but not rapidly and broadly.

The WHO decision should not lead to a sense of complacency; the announcement was studded with warnings.

Far too much is still unknown about this virus and how it works. For example, it appears that one reason for the escalating number of cases in Saudi Arabia in recent weeks was a breakdown in infection control. A visiting WHO team found lapses in such basics as hand washing, gloves and masks. Hospital conditions were “suboptimal.” How did the virus spread? Does it survive in the environment? That’s an important factor in infection control for any hospital — whether in Jiddah or Orlando — that hasn’t been answered.

Yet another big information gap has been the lack of a case-control study, which would compare those infected with a similar group of people that is not. Such a study could go a long way toward helping explain how the virus behaves and the risks of transmission and infection.

Comparing older genetic blueprints with recent ones has led experts to conclude there have not been modifications in the genome of the virus that would allow it to be transmitted from human to human more efficiently than before.

That’s reassuring, but the key will be a steady stream of genetic sequencing information to keep watch on the unpredictable evolutionary process.

The WHO emphasized that its concern has significantly increased in part because of “critical gaps in information.” That is putting it politely. A large share of the responsibility for this black hole must fall on Saudi Arabia, a closed society where the disease was not met with sufficient urgency for more than a year.

While there are now signs of more openness, the world’s toolkit for fighting MERS remains rather bare. There is no vaccine or effective antiviral. The WHO called for speeding up critical investigations, including case-control, serological, environmental and animal studies.

The kingdom must do everything it can to expedite this vital research.

Right now, MERS seems like a nightmare far away from the United States. But it is not. Both infections arrived here being carried by air passengers who passed by hundreds of other people on their journey. The best defense today is a deeper understanding of the virus and its behavior — and the sooner, the better.

- Washington Post

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

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: Give Nigerians steady electricity first, and everything else shall follow. Many people were very jubilant that the days of epileptic power supply were over. The onset of President Jonathan’s roadmap to electricity supply caused Nigerians to enjoy a sweet change to having full current and almost uninterrupted power.

Electric generator dealers were beginning to mourn the end of their business. Surprisingly, the shrewd ones were not shaking; instead they stored more generators in their warehouses. They were sure that their colleagues were panicking to a premature autopsy. And today, they are smiling to the bank because they have sold out their stock and are importing more.

What secret do they have? They know the beast they are dealing with. Nigerian government is so mired in decadence; it will take a messiah to bring electricity at every turn of the switch. Politicians will say and do anything to give the populace the conjecture that they mean well for the country. Meanwhile, they only want to tease dejected minds in order to create an

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EDITOR’S MAIL BAG

SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 800 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.net

Roadmap to no electricity avenue to drain the national treasury. Think about how many billions of dollars, no one talks in naira when it comes to the posh project, which has been sunk into the abyss to revive the dinosaur known by different names with the objective to achieve steady power supply.

Presently, many communities must agree that the euphoria is over and the nightmare has returned.

The government finally celebrated the privatization of the power sector, a laudable accomplishment by international standard. Unfortunately for Nigerians, that ushers in the beginning of electricity sharing or total blackout. The town of Umuoji in Anambra State, for example, was told by officials of the private company, Enugu Electricity

Nigerians have to be very careful about international intervention. If you look at Afghanistan and Pakistan, with American drones killing innocent people in their search for Al Qaeda targets, you will understand why international intervention, especially by any foreign power is not advisable for Nigeria at this crucial time.

Nigerian government should intensify efforts to ensure that the innocent Nigerians held hostage at Sambisa forest are rescued without harm or injuries. I strongly believe that the Nigerian security forces have the nerves to rescue the abducted girls. In furtherance of the goal of combating and putting to rest the issue of insurgency, the government of Nigeria must work to secure its border with Cameroon to

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Distribution Company (EEDC) that one of their two main transformers broke down about October, 2013.

Since, they chose to ration power every two days for the two sections of the town with the remaining transformer. Of late, they said that the active transformer broke down also and now the entire town is in a state of blanketed darkness. Barbers, welders, tailors and the general public are suffering to maintain a modern living.

The buzz word by the government is patience. They said it will take time to re-construct the dilapidated electricity infrastructure. But they do not have the goodwill. The people have for long lost any trace of trust. The abuse and corruption in the electricity reform has made

the citizenry apathetical. The government is vowing that it will replicate the success of the telecommunication industry which started lethargically after privatization.

Nigeria is losing out. The president cannot boast to Western dignitaries that he is leading a civilized country when the society is running on power generators. One hopes there is a time in a man’s life when he looks into his soul and sees the folly of his decisions. If by 2015 election there is no conviction in actualizing President Jonathan’s roadmap to power supply, he will be stomping on frayed nerves of the electorates during his campaign.

arrest the influx of terrorists into Nigeria. The money allocated to ministry of defence, should be used judiciously, instead of some unscrupulous group of people diverting it into their personal accounts.

It is high time President Jonathan woke up from his slumber and take holistic action to end the menace.

Those selfish leaders who are quiet now, thinking insurgency is the problem of the poor and average Nigerians, should not forget the law of Karma: what goes around comes around.

•Nwanyim Jideofor Moses IBB University, Lapai Niger State

IR: I write in response to a news item in The Nation Friday, May 2, on page 58, entitled: ‘APC gets first woman state chairperson’. In the said report,the newly elected chairperson of APC in Adamawa State, Ms. Binta Masi Garba had stated that: ‘as the first woman chairman in the country, gender to me means nothing because I have the experience and ability to take our party to the promised land through justice, equity and team work’.

I am more interested on the chunk dealing with: ‘...the first woman chairman in the country’.

Perhaps,on the strength of this claim, the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar in a congratulatory message described her election as ‘historic and exemplary’.

For the records, the late Chief Mrs.Susan Adagba, spouse to the late gynecological icon, Senator Joshua Adagba was the Benue State Chairperson of the National Republican Convention(NRC) in 1991. Given this fact, therefore, it is not true that Ms. Binta Masi Garba is the first woman chairperson of a political party in Nigeria. Just for the records, please.

Congratulations Madam on your well deserved election.

• Atah Pine Makurdi, Benue State

There is so much disparity in the income and income capacity of Ogun compared to Lagos State.

To my astonishment, I saw an Ogun State with road infrastructure development and standard comparable, if not exceeding that of Lagos State in all the three towns I visited.

I am short of words and can only

pray that Allah (SWT) continues to help and guide the Governor and his administration to achieve more.

If we can continue like Ogun in all the states of Nigeria, then we have hope, which, most of our generation have since concluded is lost.

• Saheed Lasisi Abuja

•Pius Okaneme, Umuoji, Anambra State.

Chibok: Fears over foreign intervention

IR: For how long will Nigerians depend on foreign intervention for protection of lives and properties?

The manner to which the government of Nigeria is approaching the issues of insecurity, especially the abduction of over 200 girls from the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok in Borno on April 14, by the Islamic Boko Haram sect, show sign of weakness. It is obvious that the state of emergency in Borno State and other states are good as useless. It is indeed worrisome that despite the security beef-up in the state, the insurgents still attack innocent citizens. The abduction of the girls depicts security lapses in the part of the soldiers deployed to the state to maintain security.

Re: First woman party chairman in Nigeria

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Ogun’s amazing strides

IR: I visited Ogun State during the Easter period. I was in Abeokuta, Mowe and Otta.

Sincerely, I have always prayed that Ogun State should benefit from its proximity to Lagos State and improve its infrastructure and quality of life, though in my mind, I don’t see how similar level of infrastructure can be developed.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014 16

21

COMMENTS

The terror this time (Delinquent citizenry and herd mentality threaten the Nigerian dream)

Email: tunji_ololade@yahoo.co.uk 08038551123, 08111845040

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EMEMBER this moment for what it’s worth. This is the moment when the neurotic tick-tock of midnight silences our whispers of dawn. This is the moment when velleity of hope submits to our maniacal dreams of tomorrow.

This moment, Nigeria dies. Nigeria dies because we kill her. And our tragedy is instructive; it bristles with imprudence of a people caught in the vortex of selfinflicted tragedies: dead oil refineries, dying agriculture, substandard education, insecurity, bandit bankers, and rusty steel sectors.

Today, we witness an eighth tragedy: Boko Haram, a northeast terrorist sect.

As you read, paths leading into Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States are littered with ghosts and entrails of lives horridly cut down by the sect; dismembered limbs, pierced eyes, ear slivers, jaw splinters, gouged lips, odd tibias, skin flaps, and toes clutter the roads like glowworms and slugs in the wake of bloody bomb blasts.

Just recently, the terrorist sect reportedly abducted over 250 school girls in Borno. In the wake of the incident, Nigeria flounders in a sea of seething protests anchored by civil rights groups, celebrities, and politicians. An interesting dimension to the protests however,

manifests at the involvement of overseas politicians and celebrities, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and media.

A fascinating feature of the protest is the trademark brandishing of placards bearing the inscription, “Bringbackourgirls” by protesters continually posing for photographs to be posted on the internet and published or broadcast in mainstream media. This aspect of the campaign gathers momentum in the wake of Boko Haram’s broadcast of a video showing some of the abducted girls; the leader of the group demands that the Nigerian government exchange some of their incarcerated members for the girls.

Prior to the broadcast of the video, the Nigerian leadership had come under virulent and wholly justifiable criticisms for its insensate response to the situation by the Nigerian citizenry.

While it struggles to deal with resentment at home, disconcerting indignation and ridicule are hauled at the nation’s leadership from abroad; the unanimous verdict is that the President Goodluck Jonathan-led government is ineffectual, clueless and virtually nonexistent.

President Jonathan, given his antecedents and characteristic incompe-

‘President Jonathan, given his antecedents and characteristic incompetence, has no doubt earned the resentment and worldwide ridicule he continually suffers but what is utterly unacceptable is for the United States of America (USA) and its apparatchik of android ‘statesmen’ and enslaved media to exaggerate the Nigerian situation via undisguised insults and insinuations of greater chaos into the minds of the citizenry’

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HE bestiality and violent criminal activities of that dreaded Boko Haram group stands condemned by every believer in the sanctity of human life. The dastardly act of this group, in the last couple of years, remains a mystery, highly unquantifiable, in terms of souls and properties lost, the one that drew global attention being the cruel abduction of over 200 innocent girls from Chibok School, in Borno State.

However, with the pronouncement credited to Nobel Laureate, our highly respected Prof Wole Soyinka, during his last interview on the CNN, there is therefore, the need to go to the basics and critically look at the issues that surrounded the emergence of this dreaded group to global prominence, for the purpose of learning one or two lessons from the phenomenon.

The name, Boko Haram, before its political coloration, was a derogatory appellation given by the residents to that local Islamic Organization, headed by late Ustaz Mohammed Yusuf, whose worldview, preaching and ideology were radically and totally opposed to the existing Islamic doctrines of the known core Islamic religious organizations in his locality.

The preaching of the then religious group, headed by late Yusuf, was considered anti-establishment because it centered on certain evils, that they (the group) generally associated with some products of western education, by way of human propensity for selfishness, whereby both the political patronage and economic resources meant for the majority are being cornered by the few northern educated, religious/ political elite, to the detriment of the populace. Hence, their local agitation, then, for a full fledged implementation of Islamic practices, as entrenched in Sharia Laws, in order to be able to curb (in the group’s estimation) the injustice and evils associated with the acquisition of western education.

Hence, the coinage of the term “Boko Haram” by the local populace to spite the group.

Presidential aide, Doyin Okupe, in an interview with CNN which published on page 7 of The Nation of Wednesday, May 7, revealed that the Islamic organization, (Boko Haram), at the initial stage, was not involved in kidnappings or any form of violent acts. However, one can say the group became radicalized and militarized between 2002 and 2009, when the opposing local traditional, political and religious elite joined issues with the group, thereafter, occasionally made use of the local security agencies and institutions to abuse, harass and intimidate Yusuf and his members, from one town of the state to the other, coupled with the destruction of their mosques within the North-eastern zone. Members of late Mohammed Yusuf Islamic organization were often detained and clamped into prison or police cells, and without recourse to the rule of law, hence, the group early clashes, skirmishes and confrontational attitude with the local police stations and prison guards.

tence, has no doubt earned the resentment and worldwide ridicule he continually suffers but what is utterly unacceptable is for the United States of America (USA) and its apparatchik of android ‘statesmen’ and enslaved media to exaggerate the Nigerian situation via undisguised insults and insinuations of greater chaos into the minds of the citizenry.

Consider for instance, US Senator, John McCain’s ridicule of the Nigerian president; analyzing McCain’s utterances, Ishaan Tharoor, a former Senior Editor with TIME Magazine, now Foreign Affairs writer with Washington Post stated thus: “An inveterate hawk, McCain always champions the U.S.'s ability to swiftly – and often militarily – change the facts on the ground in a crisis-spot, be it Iraq, Syria, Ukraine or anywhere else. But comments he made Tuesday, demanding yet another American intervention, deserve scrutiny for another reason: rudeness.”

McCain said to Daily Beast's Josh Rogin: “If the U.S. knew where [the kidnapped girls] were, I certainly would send in U.S. troops to rescue them, in a New York minute I would, without permission of the host country…I wouldn’t be waiting for some kind of permission from some guy named Goodluck Jonathan.”

McCain’s juvenile and uncultured outburst comes in the wake of coordinated and very manipulative reportage of the Nigerian crisis by the American press. The onslaught by the American media features desperate attempts by the New York Times, CNN, among others to project Nigeria as a failed state deserving urgent U.S. rescue. It gets more interesting to see CNN’s Christiane Amanpour embark on the kind of insidious reportage she perpetrated throughout the Egyptian and Libyan crises. The highly prejudiced journalist manipulated facts and outright lies to justify America’s divisive role in the conflicts; the consequence is

U.S.’s backing of a dictatorship in Egypt, the murder of Muammar Ghadaffi, and institutionalization of violence and bloodshed in the countries. It’s equally amusing to see the CNN reporter that travelled to Chibok in Borno to interview families of abducted girls struggle to affect compassion for the affected families; her pitiful effort is laughable for its futility and obvious desperation to produce a touching, Emmy award winning scene for the camera.

Why are Nigerian activists and the international community suddenly finding their voices and humanity now?

Recently, Boko Haram, in the wake of several mass murders, killed 59 students, all boys, of the Federal Government College (FCE), Buni Yadi, Yobe State, while they slept in their dormitory. In the attack, which occurred around 2 am, the teenage victims were shot and burnt to death as the gunmen torched the hostel after spraying them with bullets. The howl of the students maniacally butchered in their sleep and the sorrowful tenor of their parents’ ceaseless cries mutually resonate a macabre plot of civilization gone awry even now. Why couldn’t every Nigerian come out to march against the terrorist sect and the Nigerian leadership’s insensitivity in the wake of the attack? Are the lives of the murdered boys so worthless and expendable? Were they less valuable to the Nigerian society than the abducted girls?

At the backdrop of Nigerian civil societies’ callousness and duplicity, the American press perpetrates its characteristic manipulative journalism, perpetuating in same breath, the notion that the Nigerian Military had been forewarned about four hours before Boko Haram struck. American politicians and media continue to pillory the Nigerian Military for its incompetence in dealing with the crisis even as they failed to accord the U.S. government and military similar treatment for ig-

noring security warnings about the September 11, 1993 World Trade Center terrorist attack, several months before the incident – about 3, 000 people died in the attack.

Sadly, the coordinated assault and smear campaign launched by American ‘statesmen’ and media against the Nigerian government excites the applause of a greater number of Nigerian activists. The tragedy of the latter’s ignorance is accentuated by their inability to see through America’s sinister plot to aggravate the Nigerian situation via its state-sponsored psyops (psychological operations). This strategy involves a propagandist plot anchored on an Aggressive Cue-like media theory and disruptive security intelligence reportage.

Nonetheless, the “Bringbackourgirls” campaign gathers momentum as more people across the globe identify with it; all it takes is for a celebrity, politician or nondescript character to pose before the camera and brandish a placard screaming “Bringbackourgirls.”

What difference does it make if Michelle Obama, America’s first lady holds such a placard before the camera?

What difference does it make if celebrities worldwide do likewise?

Of what consequence is infantile diatribe like McCain’s to the Nigerian state?

The consequences are discernible in President Jonathan’s jitters and frantic request for help from the U.S., Israeli and other so-called “first world” super powers. It will be great if the Americans, Israeli and so on truly “assist” with their “intelligence” apparatuses in rescuing the abducted girls and wiping out Boko Haram. It will also be appreciated if they can quietly leave Nigeria as soon as their “humanitarian mission” is accomplished.

But this is wishful thinking no doubt.

• To be continued.

Where Soyinka got the CNN interview wrong

By Oladipo Oluwole The activities of the group came to national prominence, in 2009, when late President Umaru Yar’Adua, under the instigation and influence of the opposing local elite, sent down both the police and military troop to arrest late Mohammed Yusuf, at the end of which he was extra-judicially killed, on Thursday, July 30, 2009, by the police, with many of his organization members murdered in cold blood that spanned five days, between Sunday, July 26 – 30, 2009, at their various camps in Bauchi, Yobe, Kano and Maiduguri, Borno State.

The extra-judicial killing of Mohammed Yusuf, and cold blooded murder of his followers, drew the attention of international media like Al Jazeera. Late President Yar’Adua, as a result of the international media outcry, made a promise to bring to book those security personnel who were involved in the extra judicial killings, but did nothing to that effect, until his demise.

Prof Wole Soyinka rightly pointed out, in his interview with the CNN, published in The Punch of May 8, that Boko Haram menace has graduated from local and national issue, to become an international monster, beyond the capacity and capability of the federal government. However, although, he denounced the extra judicial killing of late Mohammed Yusuf, but on the notion that the killings aggravated the crisis in the North-east, the Nobel Laureate was quoted on page 7, of The Nation, Wednesday, May 7, as saying “the late Yusuf was a serial killer and butcher, who should have been brought to justice were he to be alive.”

The question, now is – was there any discreet and personal investigation conducted by the Nobel Laureate, (apart from the ones dished out to the media, by the state security agencies, in collaboration with the locals, who had issues to join with the late Mohammed Yusuf, then) to warrant Yusuf being categorically labeled a serial killer and butcher, before his murder in 2009?

Was such investigation, if any, brought before judicial adjudication and pronouncement for legal backing and validity?

Prof Soyinka went further during the CNN interview to say “When Yusuf was killed, a former Head of State went on a mission of appeasement to Boko Haram family, asking the people to forgive and forget. But this was a killer. But the

law says those who kill must not go unpunished” – The Nation, Page 7, May 7. The question now arises, if Mohammed Yusuf was a killer, and the law says those who kill must not go unpunished, should the punishment be pronounced or meted out to the alleged killer without recourse to the said law, for proper lawful court adjudication?

At what point, and how many months or years, after Yusuf and some of his followers’ gruesome murder, did the former head of state go to beg Boko Haram to forget and forgive?

At the time of extra judicial killing of Yusuf Mohammed and his followers in 2009, was there any public condemnation and outcry for justice, most especially, from our activists and social justice crusaders, in the like of Prof. Soyinka?

What has since then happened to the court case of those security agents arrested, for their involvement in the extra judicial killing of Yusuf and his followers since 2009?

It really saddens one, how a mere local divergent opinion, ideas, and preaching on issue, among adherents of the same faith could snowball to a global menace, with its attendant human and material loss, in great magnitude, arising from the murderous activities of the so-called Boko Haram, as a result of both the leadership and followership’s act of omission or commission.

Human history is replete with repetition, and our sense of judgment is often beclouded with emotion, sentiment and prejudices, based on mind-set, and our pre-determined assessment of individual and issue, depending on our line of divides – socio-economic, political and religious stand pole.

Now that all hands are on deck, and foreign help is coming in, to rescue our abducted daughters, there is a fervent need for every living human being to be tolerant, uphold justice whenever it matters most, making truth his or her shield, and be conscious of the fact that act of censorship of facts, half truth, outright falsehood and cheap propaganda, against perceived enemies, often lead to uncontrollable but avoidable self-indulged crises in our private, public and national lives.

As President Goodluck Jonathan postulated that Chibok abduction saga, will mark the beginning of the end of terror in Nigeria, so also the import of its lessons should, however, not be forgotten, for the prevention of future unnecessary upheaval and its unwarranted human and material sacrifices, out of ignorance and spiritual bankruptcy.

• Oluwole writes from Iwo Rd., Ibadan

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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COMMENTS

‘Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction’ ------John F. Kennedy

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IGERIA is in a sorry state, a condition that makes mockery of the toil of her foremost nationalists that had lofty dreams about her great but mismanaged potentials. And Nigerians of the younger generation have, inescapably, fallen victim to this avoidable leadership gaffe.

Nigeria is at this sorry pass because at every decisive juncture, its leadership had always failed Nigerians. Such bad leaderships truly did not emanate from the free will of the people but obviously foisted on them by the elite political class. It would not be hyperbolic to state that leadership is the most critical challenge of the nation’s civilization - apologies to Brian Tracy, the world renowned management/leadership expert.

It is trite in all human cum societal affairs that desires dictate our priorities while priorities shape choices. However, it is the latter that determine human/societal actions.

And what is affecting the country today is sentimental leadership desires over national needs/expectations. What we term as national priorities in the country is nothing but largely the parochial desires of the few in power that later manifest in detrimental official policies/actions which invariably, have sadly failed to stand the test of time.

This trend has routinely crept into the national psyche to the extent that rather than see leadership as a privilege to better the lives of others, the few in the corridors of power see it as an opportunity to satisfy personal/class greed. That is why in the real sense of the word, it has been really difficult to have genuine heroes amongst past leaders in the nation because heroes are made by the paths they choose and not through the powers they wield which are usually abused during their tenures in office.

‘The time has come for Nigerians to stand up and say enough is enough to bad leadership and selfish counsels from disgruntled past rulers capitalising on the madness of the moment to launch themselves back to national reckoning’

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EATH comes and imposes its finality but we must not forget to thank God and the people who make the journey to the resting place a bouquet of pride.

Again, death has snatched from us, a brilliant lawyer, a very resourceful personality, a great legal philosopher, accomplished statesman, leader, motivator and philanthropist, a true democrat who stood for the rule of law even in the face of intimidation by the vengeful military. The Oodole of Ife, Chief Godwin Olusegun Kolawole Ajayi has joined his ancestors. His death is a monumental tragedy to the nation. Nigeria is poorer for G. O. K’s death! G. O. K., a legal luminary, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a great African scholar, disciplinarian statesman, a dependable leader has answered the home-call, statesmanly.

Born in Ijebu-Ode to the prestigious Ajayi family, he attended Saint Saviour’s School as well as CMS Grammar School, Lagos. He proceeded to the United Kingdom to study law and was called to the English Bar in 1955 and later to the Nigerian Bar in 1957. His legal activism is legendary as he made great and constructive impact on the lives of the people who he was privileged to defend. As a matter of fact, G. O. K. Ajayi had, very early in his life’s journey shown himself as leader of leaders and a shining star among the galaxy of stars. His veering into the field of legal profession was characterized with huge success such that his name has been written in gold.

He was a principled lawyer in his service to the state and humanity, a defender of the downtrodden, a defender of human and people’s lights, and a defender of people’s freedom and democratic ideals. There is no doubt; his exit is a serious threat to the voiceless Nigerians. Indeed, he was regarded as a foremost legal luminary whose views on legal matters are held in the highest esteem. On the defence of his people, he was the leader and messiah of the masses particularly to the Yoruba cause. He was the one of the most thorough-bred Yoruba, and a man of great nobil-

07011117777

Bad leadership: Will Nigerians ever say enough?

• Obasanjo

This leadership in the euphoria of savouring power easily forgets that the secret of success for men in power is to always endeavour to take the right collectively impacting steps/decisions by learning from the mistakes of the past. Historically nonetheless, men of power especially in Africa, nay Nigeria, hardly take rational decisions while in power because they get surrounded by bootlickers who, because of survival, hardly bother to tell them the truth. The fears of losing out in the bitter corridors of powergame turn aides of position wielders into ‘Yes men.’ However, most power wielders ignore, while their tenures subsist, the wisdom in Mahatma Ghandi’s historic statement: “A ‘No’ uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a ‘Yes’ merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble.” This

is why very few men are clever enough to know the tomfoolery they do while in office. We have several of such men masquerading as champions of democracy in the country’s political turfs today and Olusegun Obasanjo is one of them. Ibrahim Babangida and Yakubu Gowon are just two others. They mismanaged their goodwill while in power and outside office, they remain irritants to the country’s democracy through the giving of unsolicited and badly belated counsels.

For example, Obasanjo, a former president of eight worthless years reportedly went to Jigawa state recently where he declared Governor Sule Lamido fit to rule the country come 2015. He reportedly declared: “Going

by Lamido’s background, performance and credibility, his competent and exposure, he can stand shoulder to shoulder with anybody in the country…if it is the wish of the people, it is okay. He did not tell me he was vying for the post, but being the wish of the people, let’s wait and see. Based on his track record, would you say he is not competent?’’

The issue is not about the person or eligibility of Lamido for the job but more about the widely despised promoter of his yet-to-bemade public interest in running for the presidency come 2015. How can Obasanjo be talking about the wish of the people when he is the numero uno leader renowned for subverting the wish of the people of this country at any opportune time?

There is no doubt that he wants to use Lamido’s candidacy to fly his trademark ignoble kite. An introspection: After Obasanjo’s eight hollow years in power and the failure of his abominable tenure elongation agenda, he foisted an ailing candidate in Umaru YarÁdua on the nation-against the wish of the people since the election that

Tribute to G. O. K. Ajayi

By Adelegan Adegbola ity. His death certainly is an immeasurable loss to the Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.

He achieved greatness by dint of hard work, doggedness, intelligence and uncommon focus that stood him out among his peers as well as marking him out distinctively as an epitome of assiduity, legal knowledge and excellence which won him a string of laurels.

The Oodole of Ife, G. O. K. Ajayi, was a rare gem, both intellectually and culturally and his eloquence, courage, forthrightness and strength of character made us christen him “The Defender of the House of Oduduwa”. The Head of the House of Oduduwa, the Arole Oodua, the keeper of the seal of Yoruba, Imperial Majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, the Ooni of Ife, has lost one of his patriotic confidants.

The Yoruba cultural icon, legal luminary, nay intellectual superstar, Ajayi must have joined the Oduduwa saints including the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Adewale Thompson, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Chiefs S. L. Akintola, Adelabu Adegoke, Rotimi Williams, Sapara Williams, and host of others of the children of Oduduwa to deliberate on the way forward for the Oduduwa nation and Nigeria at large.

We cannot easily forget how Chief G. O. K. Ajayi fought relentlessly on the side of justice to ensure the return of the deported northern politician in the 80s – Alhaji Shugaba to his fatherland – Nigeria. He would remain as the quintessential Nigerian lawyer who built durable bridges in legal defence across the nation. He was an erudite scholar and legal practitioner of no mean order rising to the pinnacle of that profession as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). G. O. K. Ajayi would forever be remembered on his belief in virtues of honesty, integrity, probity and character, which

he exhibited in his entire public life. As a statesman, he remained committed to the late sage, Chief Awolowo, his predecessor, Oodole of Ife, and to all the ideals that the late sage believed in, stood and died for.

G. O. K. Ajayi certainly fought the good fight with all his might and huge sense of purpose.

He will never be forgotten in the history of Nigeria. In legal circle, he had become an institution, a personality to be studied. Before his sun was to set by death, he had traversed the political and legal terrain of this great country like a colossus. He bestrode the socio-political path with his head raised from the beginning to the very end. A man of infinite courage, determination, perseverance, dedication and patience, he can see the other man’s point of view with due respect. A man of great charm and charisma, he was amazing in intellectual perception, an icon of Yoruba culture.

Though, he may naturally have his weaknesses since no human being is perfect, yet, he was successful in many areas.

His excellent, natural endowment and good rearing made him the most remarkable man of the age in legal profession in Nigeria. It is true that some men are far more gifted than their fellows and this will take a leading part, whether as statesmen or philosophers, in shaping the destiny of mankind. Baba G. O. K., in all his endeavours, the genius in him took the centre stage thus, accounting for his superlative success in life. It is understandable that, in life, he had a larger than life image, in death; his image is even extraordinary. Chief G. O. K. Ajayi, unlike other Awoists, one can easily recollect his principled stance of not having taken any political appointment throughout his life, despite his closeness to the power brokers both in the region and national level.

Still, Baba excelled in the course of his chosen career on earth.

brought that late president to power-organised by Obasanjo-was adjudged to be one of the worst in the annals of the nation’s electoral history. To satisfy his greedy desires and more importantly as a mark of punishment on the nation for rejecting his Third Term agenda through the national assembly, he saddled YarÁdua with an inept deputy in the current Dr Goodluck Jonathan, the incumbent president. Today, the rest is history!

Again, Obasanjo reportedly spoke on a BBC programme, Focus on Africa, where he advocated the deployment of carrot and stick approach in solving the Boko Haram debacle. His reason was because President Jonathan “is overwhelmed” by the Boko Haram insurgency. He also reportedly disclosed that his self(ish) 2011 fact-finding mission when Boko Haram insurgency became uncontrollable unveiled that the sect has a lawyer and even quoted what the lawyer told him to wit: ‘Mr President, if you want to meet their leaders, give me three hours. I will gather their leaders, not in Nigeria but outside Nigeria.’’ This, according to him, necessitated his conclusion that the sect has leaders and one reported source recently claimed that Obasanjo has a list of leaders of the sect.

What then has he done with the list of leaders that the sect’s lawyer ostensibly availed him of? Being a government he installed without input from Nigerians, has Obasanjo ever bothered to discuss this issue with the protégé president for him to come forth with the way forward? Does he want the northeast region to go up in flames before brandishing the list for the whole world to see and for the media to have something to feast on?

With the degree of misrule, coupled with selfish and bad decisions that Obasanjo inflicted on the nation, this column does not think that his fanciful endorsement of Lamido should be taken seriously by millions of Nigerian victims of his eight grueling years of misgovernance and tyranny that produced the incumbent president.

Whatever misgovernance Jonathan might be inflicting on the nation today is a direct consequence of Obasanjo’s mischievous misplacement of priority because of his selfish interest. The time has come for Nigerians to stand up and say enough is enough to bad leadership and selfish counsels from disgruntled past rulers capitalising on the madness of the moment to launch themselves back to national reckoning. Even if Nigerians do not know those who would guide them out of socio-economic and political troubled waters, they should at least know those who would not and these include Obasanjo and Babangida. Enough is enough of bad leadership!

He was a different person to different people; he was a lover of culture and history. He asked this writer to go to and research on Yoruba people in Kwara, Kogi, Benue and other places in order to have a stronger unity in Yorubaland.

Chief G. O. K. Ajayi in his time has demonstrated the spirit of efficiency, modesty, resilience and indefatigable traits, characteristic of a brilliant administrator and an outstanding statesman with an uncompromising stand in the struggle for emancipation of justice. As a man, he was highly respected, as a lawyer, he was held in high esteem, as a father, he were a veritable example to many.

Though the Oodole of Ife, has come to the necessary end, he left huge footprints in the sands of time. Let us be comforted by the knowledge that life after all is not valued by how much of it was lived, or what was amassed in the span on earth, but by what we lived for, by the things we stood for, the extent to which we reached out and touched others positively with grace and gifts given by the Almighty God. •Prince Adegbola fcpa, is President, Oduduwa Cultural Foundation

G. O. K. Ajayi certainly fought the good fight with all his might and huge sense of purpose. He will never be forgotten in the history of Nigeria. In legal circle, he had become an institution, a personality to be studied. Before his sun was to set by death, he had traversed the political and legal terrain of this great country like a colossus.

BUSINESS

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

$12m UN boost for FESTAC Town

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

T

HE United Nations (UN) Habitat has promised an infrastructure rehabilitation aid worth $12 million to FESTAC Town, Residents Association Chairman, Mr. Jola Ogunlusi, has said.

He broke the news at a meeting between residents and representatives of Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, Lagos State.

The meeting was called on by the Federal Government represented by the Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi, to harmonise revenue and charges.

Ogunlusi complained that the Housing ministry and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) have not improved on the infrastructure of the once beautiful estate, adding that this has resulted to decay.

He said rather than having an improved environment, they are confronted with are multiple charges from governments.

He called for a harmonisation of taxes by government’s agencies, warning that residents would resist double taxation.

He recalled the many selfhelp efforts by the residents, such as removal of over 2,886 containers, preservation of some of the open places and discouragement of abuse of the character of the estate, wondering when the $12million UN grant would come.

He urged the government to use the Ecological Fund to rehabilitate the estate.

Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Comrade Ayodele Adewale, recalled efforts by the local government to uplift FESTAC. These, he said, included construction of drainages and road. He lamented that the local government is limited by the availability of funds.

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

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

- Minister of Information, Labaran Maku

‘Idle oil fields held by multinationals contain 2b barrels’ A BOUT two billion bar rels of Stock Tank Oil Initially in Place (STOIIP), recoverable and non-recoverable hydrocarbon, are in the idle or undeveloped fields of international oil companies (IOCs), it was learnt.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Energia Limited, Felix Valentine, said the STOIIP are in over 200 fields.

He spoke at a special panel session by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas, United States.

Valentine, who spoke on the growth of independent exploration and production (E&P) firms and service providers over the next decade, said the divestment of IOCs’

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

assets, which were being acquired by indigenous firms was good.

He added that the divested assets and the 31 marginal fields, which would be awarded during this year’s bid round, would position indigenous E&Ps to contribute more to national production.

The marginal fields, according to an industry source, would be carved from the idle assets the IOCs kept for so long.

Felix said with the 10 producing marginal fields, which account for only two per cent of national production, production from the divested IOCs owned by indig-

enous independents and the output from the 31 marginal fields to be awarded this year, contribution from the E&P firms would rise to 30 per cent from 10 per cent.

He said: “Ten marginal fields are from the 2013 award, are producing, 18 existing marginal fields yet on production, additional 31 marginal fields to be released in 2014, IOCs divestment of assets and indigenous participation, will increase contribution from 10 per cent to 30 per cent of national production capacity.”

The 10 producing marginal fields, he said, include, Umusadege field located in oil mining lease (OML) 56 owned by Midwestern Oil & Gas; Umusati by Pillar Oil;

Ibigwe by Waltersmith; Egboma by Platform; Ebendo/Obodeti owned by Energia /Oando; Ajapa by Britannia-U; Ogbelle by Niger Delta Exploration and Production Company; Ebok

by Oriental Energy; Uquo by Frontier; and Asaramatoru

by Prime Energy.

He said at least 300 million barrels of reserves are expected from the 24 fields awarded in 2003 and two fields awarded in 2011.

He identified paucity of funds and experts, non-domestication of E&P technology, lack of indigenous E&P industry standards/benchmarks, increasing oil and gas finds in Africa, impact of shale oil and gas, other competing non-conventional energy sources and better business environment, as some of the challenges confronting indigenous firms.

•Chairman, ICAN, Mowe District, Alhaji Musibau Lawal, taking his oath of office during the inauguration of the society at Mowe, Ogun State. With him are (from left): Olu of Egbinland, Oba Festus Makinde Oluwole, and President, Institute of PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

Shell seeks Niger Delta youths for training

T

HE Shell Petroleum Development Com pany of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) has invited entries from Niger Delta youths to train and start their own business though its LiveWIRE programme.

According to Shell’s spokesman, Precious Okolobo, LiveWIRE Nigeria was launched in 2003 to provide youths access to training, business development services and start-up capital to establish and expand their businesses.

So far, he said, the programme has trained about 6000 youths in enterprise development and management.

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

Indigenes of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers states aged between 18 and 35 are qualified to apply. They have a chance to benefit from start-up funds and support services, including training and workshops.

In 2011, SPDC kicked off the deal with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to expand the economic empowerment of young women.

Through this partnership, the LiveWIRE model has been used to create employment opportunities for over 1,600 young women.

The General Manager, Sustainable Development

and Community Relations, Nedo Osayande, said: “The LiveWIRE programme has become the main means of support for youths in the Niger Delta to start their own businesses.

“The success stories of several young entrepreneurs are really inspiring, and we’re delighted that more youths will take up the opportunity in this year’s edition.”

A highlight of the programme is the Young Business Leaders Awards for managers who have been in business for up to two years, and can show good progress in service delivery, financial growth, em-

ployment generation and improvement in management strategies.

The generous cash awards are expected to help the young people expand their businesses.

Employment generation for young people is one aspect of the social investment portfolio of Shell companies in Nigeria.

In 2013, the SPDC JV and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) spent over $100 million on voluntary social investments, making Nigeria the largest recipient of social investment by the Shell Group globally, Okolobo said.

Senate advises Intels to list on Stock Exchange

T

HE Senate Commit tee on Privatisation has expressed delight with the impressive performance of Intels Nigeria Limited, urging its owners to list it at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) so that more Nigerians could buy shares and be part of its success story.

According to the Head, Public Communication, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Chigbo Anichebe, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Olugbenga Obadara, who led other members on a visit to the company in Onne, Rivers State as part of the committee’s oversight visit to privatised enterprises in the state, noted that Intels’privatisation successful.

He said Intels impacted positively on the economy, commending its ability to generate 20 megawatts of electricity for its use.

Receiving the Senators, the Special Assistant to Intels’ Managing Director, Marko Miskovic, said the company invested $6.1billion in its operations to become a top player in the economy.

He called on the Federal Government to dredge and deepen the Bonny, Warri and Calabar entrance channels to boost activities of the company.

Miskovic called for a review of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) law on offshore banking, saying it is militating against its operations.

At the West African Container Terminal Nigeria Limited, Onne, its Managing Director, Martin Jacob, called for the intervention of the lawmakers on the uncooperative attitude of an unnamed unit in the Ministry of Finance whose personnel refuse to work.

He told the committee members that officers in the unit were designated to work with Customs officials 24 hours weekly to clear goods, adding: “In Port Harcourt, they come to work from 8am and close at 6pm.They don’t come to work at weekends, whereas their counterparts in Lagos work round the clock with the Customs. We have made overtures to them to no avail. This is affecting our revenue adversely.”

The committee members also visited Brawal, Ports & Terminal Operators Limited and BUA (Concessionaire of Terminal B), Port Harcourt Port, where they restated that the government embarked on the privatisation to bring about efficiency in service delivery, create jobs and generate revenue.

26

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS

BRANDS & MARKETING

e-mail: adedejiademigbuji@yahoo.com /mobile line: 08131075667

With attractive tourism potential, good infrastructure, natural resources and social amenities, many states are making efforts to brand their destination using with the right brand identity, such as slogans and logos as visual communications that best express their market offerings to tourists and investors, writes ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI.

Destination branding as strategy for driving growth D

ESTINATION branding is fast becoming a new approach to marketing states, cities, regions and communities to potential tourists and investors. While the essence of destination branding is aimed at selling government programmes, tourism potentials, natural and human resources, culture and investment potential to the target market, many marketers still strive to create brand identities, such as state logos and slogans that could create effective visual communications to create top-of-the-mind awareness and demand.

All over the world, governments have adopted the right logo to create global demand for their water falls, social amenities, culture, nature, economies among others. The World Travel Market (WTM) snapped 44 slogans in 2009 to show how countries, cities and states brand their destinations to woo investors and tourists.

“Country slogans and tourism taglines – how can they say so very little and yet sometimes so much? I’ve posted my bemusement with these fascinating little one-liners that marketers use to ‘sell’ or position a destination before,” the WTM said.

After a close observation, the WTM came up with long list of slogans cutting across many continents. Some of such slogans are Germany-The travel destination; Portugal – Europe’s West Coast; Romania – Explore the Carpathian Garden; Scotland- Welcomes the World; Slovakia – Little Big Country; Espana – I Need Spain; Switzerland-Get Natural; and Turkey-Unlimited.

In Africa, some countries have also promoted their destination-brands with the right slogan to market their cities and states to the world. Some of them are CameroonCameroon is Back; Egypt – Where it All Begins; Ethiopia – The Cradle of Humankind; The Gambia – The Smiling Coast of Africa; Kenya-Magical Kenya; Malawi – The Warm Heart of Africa; Mauritius – It’s a Pleasure; Morocco – The Country that Travels Within You; Nigeria – Tourism is Life (now Good People, Great Nation); and South Africa– Inspiring new Ways.

These slogans are well crafted in their logos such that it is easier for investors and tourists to know countries or states and their value-propositions coined in few words for potential visitors to know their total brand offerings. In Nigeria’s for instance, many states have slogans and logos to show what they offer.

Principal Partner, Indigo Communication, Bolaji Abimbola said the slogans and logos speak voulmes of what the states have to offer. He said: “By their slogans and logo, it is easy to know what the state is offering.” For instance, Benue prides itself as The Nigeria’s Food Basket; Cross River, Calabar - The Nation’s Paradise; Ebonyi-Salt of the Nation; Ekiti-Fountain of Knowledge; Enugu-Coal City State; Lagos-Centre of Excellence; Akwa Ibom, Uyo - Promised Land. “ Strategy Communication Manager, Oregon Market Place, Unites States (US), Mr. Adrian Brown, said the states have taken their brand marketing to the international community through popular paid-television channels such as Cable News Network (CNN).

He said: “Watching CNN throughout the week, you will see at least one or two states from Nigeria selling their destination as a brand to the world.”

However, most of these catch-phrases didn’t emerge from the blues. They are products of value-propositions such as tourism, investment opportunities, people, culture of the states which are displayed and created into slogan and logo. To make people experience some of the offerings as communicated via their logos and slogans, some states also activate events such as summits, carnivals and shows. For instance, the

• Governor Fashola

• Governor Ahmed

• Lagos State logo

• Kwara State logo

Calabar Festival, The Lagos’s Eyo Festival, Lagos Black Heritage Festival and EHINGBETI 2014 remain touch-points for visitors to these states and get convinced about the brand promise on the slogans and logos.

Logos and slogans play significant role in communicating experience. According to experts, they are the symbolic reflection of what the destination wants to communicate to audiences especially as potential travellers and investors increasingly use the Internet for research purposes and get information from business networks or consumer generated media. The logos and slogans are also regarded as the brand identity of the state.

Recently, the Kwara State government joined the league of states that see the use of logo and slogan as strategies of position-

ing for destination-brand. To bring the potential of the state out of obscurity, the state government unveiled a brand identity and explained its visual communications in its logo which stresses what the state is offering to the world. Like Lagos, the state is exploring a new slogan, “Its Good Here”, to communicate the state brand promise.

A brand analyst, Lauratu Umar Abdulsalam said: “States, like companies, have the responsibility to evolve a more pro-active stand on corporate imaging. This lies on the state managers to create an attractive visual communication symbol.”

During the unveiling of its state brand identity, Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Ahmed Abdulfatai, explained that the power of logo in the overall brand communication artistry of the state’s investment opportunities cannot be underestimated. According to

‘While the essence of destination branding is aimed at selling government programmes,tourism potentials, natural and human resources, culture and investment potential to the target market, many marketers still strive to create brand identities such as state logos and slogans that could create effective visual communications in order to create top-of-themind awareness and demand’

him, the new logo, which he described as a global identity for indigenes of the state, defines who Kwarans are; their diversity and shared values.

His words: “This campaign and the new logo that comes with it are designed to promote our state as a top investment destination using our reputation for peace, our strengths in agriculture, commerce, solid mineral development, tourism and strategic infrastructure.

“We intend to strongly market our state as a haven for lucrative domestic and foreign direct investment. Let me state here that this is not a mere political gimmick. Rather, we are setting the foundations for the long-term prosperity of our great state and its people.”

The unveiled brand architecture revealed many symbols which showed what the state is offering to investors and tourists. Exploring antelopes in the logo’s visual communication, the state brand handlers see the animal as the largest, most colourful, and most sociable animal in Africa. It symbolises Kwara Staes government as a highly advanced social organisation. The brand handlers said the use of the antelope also typifies the humility, goodness, down-to-earth of the people of the state and natural beauty and landscape. It also symbolised abundant wildlife and rich tourism potential.

The cassava plant in the brand architecture also reflects the limitless potential of championing a new agric produce boom with a far-reaching influence in local and international trade between Kwara and the rest of the world. Also, the cowries symbolise the massive trading going on using cowries in the earlier days when Ilorin traders were giants of enterprise in crops, garment, livestock and precious stones. The Kwara traders of old have a heritage of being the forbearers of wealthy enterprise in Northwest.

The flowing water, River Niger and Owu Falls used in the state logo, also come with their own meaning-natural endowments – which are the pride of the state. Potential power sources, irrigation, fishing grounds and huge tourist attractions among many others were other messages it was designed to pass.

Others are precious stones which means abundant natural resources; shield, unyielding spirit to succeed and excel.

Beyond the icon, in destination branding, the colour of the logo is also significant in achieving a uniform communication to drive investors into the market offerings. The Nigerian Green White Green symbolise agriculture and peace but in the case of Kwara State, the Blue represents flowing water and the beautiful seasonal belts; the Deep Red represents the pride, passion, royalty and great spirit of enterprise that has been a lifelong heritage; the Black represents being part of the African race as Nigerians; Gold represents the minerals and industrial wealth and the Green represents the rich agricultural potential of the state.

The Senior Special Aid on Media and Communication, Dr. Femi Akorede, said the people have accepted the initiative. He said: “Both shared prosperity programme and the State logo have gone down really well with the people. People can relate to shared prosperity and the logo slogan-- Its Good Here.

“People can easily relate to both and grasp the meaning. It is interesting to chant Kwara State and hear people reply- Its Good Here.

Both have streamlined how we communicate both our brand identity and government programmes.”

However, the Group Managing Director of SO&U, Mr. Udeme Uffot, said building state brands with a shared-value and delivery on brand promise is beyond sloganeering and logo. He said the people must also see some of the visual communication translating to transformation in their lives through good governance.

27

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

Brandnews

A deal gone awry T

HE news of the breakdown of the much-talked about $35 billion merger between Publicis Groupe and Omnicom Group came as a shock to many.

Sources said the merger suffered from inreconciable differences.

According to the Chief Executive Officer, Publicis Groupe, Mr. Maurice Levy, the trigger was Omnicom’s first quarter 2014 results, which its Chief Executive Officer John Wren presented.

Some of the issues that led to the collapse of the talks include unco-ordinated statements on the deal, some United Kingdom’s tax issues (same issue in China) and the question of who would be in the pilot.

Levy said: “The other was organisational; it was on who would be in charge, and the third was implementation of shared services and the model to be adopted for this. We went back and forth for months to see how to come to an agreement about implementation of shared services and the organisation and weren’t able to fix it.”

“Our perspective, similar to Publicis, is that there were many complexities related to the deal – tax, anti-trust, financial regulatory, management structure, cultural differences,” an Omnicom spokesperson said.

The agency holding companies, owners of many of the most prominent ad networks, blamed the problem on “difficulties in completing

By Adedeji Ademigbuji with agency reports

the transaction within a reasonable timeframe”.

The initial take off of the merger talk was announced over nine months ago, but parties blamed many issues as responsible for the break down.

“The parties have released each other from all obligations with respect to the proposed transaction, and no termination fees will be paid by either party,” the statement said. A $500 million termination fee would have applied if either company had walked away,” it said.

In a statement, Wren, said: “I want to emphasise that while the proposed merger was time-consuming, we never took our eyes off the ball in terms of what we needed to deliver to our clients, our people and our shareholders.

And that has been reflected in our reported results. We’re bullish on 2014.”

Earlier, Levy and Wren warned that the deal could fall apart. But Levy said during the presentation of first quarter results that he was “confident the deal will go through”.

But he added: “I would like to stress that Publicis has a very clear strategy with strong objectives and a strong position and I do believe we are the best holding company in our sector for the future. There is no issue if we go

back to a stand alone company.

Life is good for Publicis whatever happens.”

But an online publication, brandcrunch, quoted Chairman, Troyka Group, Mr Biodun Shobanjo, as saying that the botched merger deal would not affect his firm’s (Insight) partnership with Publicis.

“Our relationship is with Publicis Group”. He said nothing changed; it’s business as usual for the industry, competition among players in the industry continues.

Also, CEO, Fuel Communications, Tunji Abioye, said the breakdown of the merger talks might be temporary. “There is nothing on the horizon that says the consummation will not happen in the medium term,” he added.

Abioye added that the setback could only mean the sustenance of the relationships, structures and networks in the market.

A merger of Omnicom Group worth $16.8 billion last July and Publicis Groupe’s $15.6 billion would have been the biggest agency deal, dusting Dentsu Inc.’s $4.9 billion acquisition of Aegis Group in March, last year and WPP’s $4.7 billion purchase of Young & Rubicam in 2000.

The coming together of the global agency giants would have created ad’s biggest behemoth. But this is not to be any more.

Diamond Bank launches BET4

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IAMOND Bank Plc has launched Season 4 of the Building Entrepreneurs Today (BET4) programme, aimed at assisting entrepreneurs.

The Head, Consumer Propositions Group, Diamond Bank PLC, Mr. Olumide Akindele, at the launch of the fourth season, said: “The Building Entrepreneurs Today programme is a strategic initiative of Diamond Bank to invest in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) segment of the economy by increasing the capacity of these small businesses

V

to run thriving businesses.

“We are pleased to announce the fourth edition of the programme. This is a reflection of Diamond Bank’s resolve to ensure that many young businesses get the right assistance to excel and contribute to the economy,” he added.

Also, the Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of the Pan Atlantic University, the facilitators of the programme, Mr. Peter Bamikole, lauded the bank for its sustained partnership with the EDC on the BET programme.

Verdant Zeal, NSB sign deal

ERDANT Zeal Marketing Communications Ltd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Society for the Blind (NSB) to boost the group’s programmes.

The Group Chief Executive Officer, Verdant Zeal Communications Ltd., Tunji Olugbodi, said the signing was a right step towards attaining greater heights for the society, assuring of his company’s support and commitment towards the organisation.

Olugbodi said part of the agreement is that Verdant Zeal will provide free marketing communication services to the society and opportunities for it to tell the public about the association’s needs at its public fora.

Expressing the NSB’s appreciation for the support from Verdant Zeal, the Administrator and Chairman, Executive Council of NSB, Mrs Abiola Agbaje, said for many years the society sought for support such as the one Verdant Zeal offered them.

Chivita wins Africa’s Best Quality Juice Brand Award

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HIVITA Premium Fruit juice has been awarded Africa’s Best Quality Juice Brand at the Africa Quality Achievement Awards.

The Managing Director of Chi Limited, Mr. Roy Deepanjan, during the presentation, said the award did not come to him as a surprise.

He said: “We are happy to receive this accolade for Chivita Premium from Africa Quality Institute (AQI), as it validates our core values as a responsible and ethical organisation.”

The Chivita Premium Fruit Juice is in five variants - orange,

apple pineapple, orange mango and orange pineapple.

The awards are held yearly to celebrate innovation and creativity in Africa.

Initiated by the Africa Quality Institute (AQI) and IBMN Integrated Services, the Africa Quality Achievement Award is organised with the support of South Africa Quality Institute (SAQI) and the Chartered Quality Institute of the United Kingdom.

Chivita Premium Fruit juice was adjudged the winner because of its consistency, creativity, value and packaging.

Close Up unveils herbal toothpaste

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• From left: Vice President, Customer Development, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Mr Shahzeb Mahmuud; Okeme; Gyang and Vice President, Brand Building Unilever Nig Plc, Mr Robert De-ureede, at the launch of the CloseUp Naija Herbal Gel Toothpaste.

XLR8 grabs BATN PR account

T

HE British American Tobacco Nigeri’s (BATN) public relations account has been won by XLR8, a leading communications management consultancy firm.

The tobacco firm account was handled by The Quadrant Company for over five years before the new PR account handler emerged.

BATN said the new handler emerged “sequel to a competitive pitch and an extensive and pains-

By Adedeji Ademigbuji

taking evaluation process”.

Head of Corporate Affairs, BAT West Africa, Oluwasoro-midayo George, said: “XLR8 presented a most strategic and compelling proposition. In addition, the feedback we received from its roster of current clients was excellent. There is no doubt that the quality of its work is very well regarded and that XLR8 is held in high esteem by its clients.”

The Chief Executive Officer of XLR8, Calixthus Okoruwa, said: “We are delighted at the opportunity to work for a blue chip corporation of the calibre of BAT and are humbled to have been selected ahead of other, no doubt, competent consultancies.”

He assured that “BAT is in good company as has been graciously attested to by our esteemed clientele.”

XLR8 parades high profile accounts, such as Dstv and MTN.

LOSE Up brand manufactured by Unilever has launched a herbal variant known as the ‘Close up Naija Herbal Gel’.

It has a blend of Aloe Vera, an anti-bacterial agent.

The Brand Building Director, Unilever Nig. Plc, Mr David Okeme, said the toothpaste aimed at encouraging young Nigerians to get close to nature.

He said Nigerians are energetic, resilient, creative and different in style. “So Close Up created a mix that is not only unique to Nigeria but is an embodiment of the Nigerian spirit,” he added.

I

By Mojisola Olaide and Adams Ibrahim

Okeme said the new variant is an achievement for the brand and Unilever, noting that it will help reach out to young Nigerians and satisfy their needs.

He said: “The future is here, the future is now, the future is the Nigerian youth and we acknowledge and celebrate you.”

The Category Manager, Oral Care, Unilever Nig Plc, Oiza Gyang, said the product will meet the needs of young Nigerians, who want to exhibit their uniqueness and create more opportunities for them.

Ozekhome quits Insight

NSIGHT Communications’ Head of Marketing and New Business, Franklin Ozekhome has resigned.

Ozekhome, who joined Insight in 2007, played major roles ranging from managing the PepsiCo and MTN Youth segment accounts to his dual role of Head of Marketing and New Business.

It is said he spearheaded ventures and helped drove new initiatives that helped raked in businesses worth over N100 million.

As Head of New Business, he prospected and drove pitch wins,

developed market-entry strategies for brands in various sectors, including multinationals such as Smile Communications, Forte Oil, Tecno.

He also handled top brands, such as Bobo Foods, GZI, Meristem and Ma-Mia. Ozekhome reportedly left the agency on a cordial note, which is why the firm’s management held a send off for him.

There is no doubt that his absence will be felt by colleagues, clients and the agency’s partners.

FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

28

THE NATION

BUSINESS SHOPPING

E-mail: toniaitose@gmail.com

Sms : 07035302326 Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.net

With retailers dangling the proverbial carrot in form of sales promotions to attract and retain customers’ loyalty, the power of brand loyalty is gradually waning, as consumers now choose what is on offer before their preferred brand. TONIA ‘DIYAN reports.

Savers Card introduced for shoppers

Why brand loyalty no longer holds the ace T

T

HE survey is revealing. About 50 per cent of a brand’s ‘loyal’ users might not be with them the following year, according to Kantar Worldpanel’s United Kingdom (UK) Shopper Survey 2012. The survey states that shoppers are not quite keen when it comes to brand loyalty, which has been perpetuated by a retail environment increasingly driven by promotions. Price promotions have always been an important part of retail and brand loyalty, but have become more of a concern to retailers recently as the number of products sold on discounts continues to climb and retailers seem not to make much profit. Generally, promotions now account for 40 per cent of branded product sales, which has to be influencing the way people shop.

As shoppers change so frequently, brands have to keep talking to loyal users while trying to recruit new customers.

Another survey also shows that over 5,500 shoppers bought more than 450 brands online and offline across 17 categories in the past quarter of the year. Observations across the Lagos metropolis also show that an average of 42 per cent of consumers have a brand in mind before they go shopping, leading to consumers buying at least two brands in the majority of categories.

Experts believe that the high level of transparency among major grocers and the fact that consumers can easily compare prices when products are on the shelf led to more price-matching, which has had a major effect on the promotional landscape, thereby resulting to brand disloyalty amongst consumers.

Retailers now strive to outdo one another on promotional strategies in certain highly promoted categories that can mean a continuing increase in their level of promotions to encourage brand loyalty. If one retailer introduces a deal, others copy it and even add a new idea. For instance, the food category is a sector where purchase behaviour is influenced by what is on offer as at the time of purchase. According to findings within Lagos, only 21 per cent of shoppers plan which brand of consumable they are going to buy prior to going shopping. Some shoppers cannot afford to be loyal to a particular brand as they are always happy to buy across price tiers. So, the same shopper who will buy a brand ‘A’ today, for instance, is the same that will buy a brand ‘B’ tomorrow, depending on what is on offer/discount.

A manufacturer of a cosmetic product in Lagos said his brand is highly promoted, but that the majority of sales he makes are from the promotions he offers from time to time. The manufacturer, who declined to be mentioned, said he finds relatively little loyalty, as consumers choose what is on offer before their preferred brand.

This behaviour is reinforced by the layout of products in store with both brands stocked on the same shelf and in similar packaging, blurring the lines between the different price tiers.

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shoprite, Bassey noted: “Before now, marketers always asked if I introduced pro-

K

•Loyal shoppers or not

motional offers. What does it do for my brand in the long-term? But now it’s more about how much profit and how much a promotion can deliver in the short-term.” He said it’s more tactical in nature rather than a strategic long-term view. He added that manufacturers are investing more in building their brands and creating excitement for the shop where they have their brand.

Even in categories where consumers are found to be more loyal and the overall number of brands purchased small, David Botha, a manager at ‘Mr. Price’ says there is still need for a high level of promotion. Citing example with beverage, he said 51 per cent of shoppers pre-plan which brand they are going to buy prior to setting foot in a shop, while 30 per cent change their mind while in the shop and an average shopper buys the cheapest items on the shelf.

However, experts have advised that retailers should pay close attention to the types of deal they offer because a higher level of discount does not mean higher return on investment.

They should also consider whether they

‘Some shoppers cannot afford to be loyal to a particular brand as they are always happy to buy across price tiers’

discount their ‘hero’ brand, the one that performs best in terms of keeping loyal customers regardless of promotions or support a weaker performing brand with the hope of increasing sales. Sometimes, during a one week-long promotion it will be possible for the hero product to perform more than three times better than the smaller brand.

Shoppers have different views on how loyal they are to their brands. For instance, Matthew Smith thinks consumers have become more ruthless in their hunt for value.

“Consumers are being much savvier in their shopping habits, they rather do one big shopping from a large retailer; they shop across the discounters and premium retailers. This trend will only continue,” he said. Omoba Adeyinka, said he likes trying out new brands. “My old brands are common and I like to explore new things,” he said.

However, Tomiwa Oladele, said she likes to remain loyal to her favourite brands especially online. Same for Mrs. Aderinola Abiola, a legal practitioner, who said she prefers staying glued to her favourite brand. She said her favourite brands are trustworthy and have never failed her. “I don’t see any reason why I shouldn’t be loyal to my brands. As the saying goes, the devil you know is better than the angel you just met,” she said.

A brand analyst, Mr. Ayodeji Ayopo, agrees with her. He said he remains a brand loyalist and does not switch brands. His words: “I don’t switch brands easily. I am a brand loyalist. I remain committed to my brands even to tea, toothpaste and toiletries.

I don’t switch.”

HE newly introduced Savers Card, which is in partnership with Ecobank, is giving shoppers who are card holders discounts on purchases of up to 40 per cent in over 1,500 merchant locations in Lagos, depending on the merchant location visited. Discount centres include supermarkets, eateries, hotels, Spas, restaurants, boutiques, Laundromats, salons, bookshops, Hospitals, clinics, electronic shops, auto-garages and car shops just to mention a few.

According to the company’s Business Development Manager, Nnenna Ejiogu, “the Savers Club Discount Card shall soon be Nigeria’s ultimate shoppers’ card as we intend to create a discount merchant location within every 200 meters in Nigeria”.

Nnenna also used the opportunity to invite Shop owners to sign up on the discount scheme as it provides them with free adverts and increases traffic to their outlets.

In an innovative twist to the re-launch of the Cards, Savers Card International also partnered with three leading insurance companies to bundle the card with an electronic Third party Motor Insurance pack called the Gogo pack.

By this bundle, any buyer of the GoGo pack automatically has both a “self-Service Third party motor insurance cover “ and the Savers Club Card to enjoy discounts in over 1,500 merchant locations in Lagos.

The Savers Club cards can be bought in any branch of Ecobank in Lagos in what the company’s Business Development Manager, Nnenna Ejiogu referred to as its pilot phase of the partnership with Ecobank.

Asked to comment on what other advantages the card delivers to the shopper who has the card, Nnenna said the card is the ultimate card for household and online shopping, in line with the CBN cashless initiative. With the Reloadable Savers Club card shoppers will enjoy the triple advantage of saving on every purchase made, spending only within budget and the peace of mind of not worrying about their sensitive account details being compromised when they use their card on third party channels.

The Savers Club Card powered by Interswitch can be loaded in any Nigerian commercial bank via the quickteller portal. For the more computer savvy shopper in possession of the card, there is a self-service cardload portal on the Interswitch website www.myvervecard.com from where shoppers can easily move money from their bank account to the card for all their online and household shopping.

This innovation is in partnership with Ecobank the Transnational Bank. It is a relaunched of a premium discount Card by Savers Card International. The Discount Card which comes as a Reloadable Card has all the features of a standard ATM card with all the CBN approved security features.

The Savers Club Card powered by Interswitch is usable on all ATMs, Mobile Applications and POS Terminals in over 1,500 Merchant locations all over Lagos.

New offers for Konga customers

ONGA.COM, Nigeria’s largest online marketplace, in celebration of its customers and recent recognition as the most innovative and impactful retail brand in Nigeria by the Lagos state chamber of commerce and industry, has introduced free delivery nationwide to all its customers for the month of May. This free delivery means that Nigerians nationwide can now receive all orders purchased without having to pay a delivery charge for the month of May. With this offer, KONGA provides a fully customized, convenient and stress-free shopping expe-

rience for all its customers on its marketplace Konga is also launching a new escrow service that allows for secured and easy payments online without exposing customer ATM/Debit Card details by ensuring that all payments are only made to sellers on its marketplace once delivery has been confirmed by the buyer.

The Konga Escrow system has been developed working with Nigeria’s leading banks to provide 100 per cent buyer protection.

Now, customers can directly link their bank accounts to their Konga wallets and carry out instant credit and debits to and from

their bank accounts. With the Konga Escrow system, shoppers can also get amazing discounts and offers available to verified account holders on Konga.

Speaking about the two new offers for customers, Mayowa Adebayo, Vice President, Customer Experience, Konga.com said; “In continuous demonstration of our commitment to providing better shopping experiences and customer satisfaction, 2014 will be all about providing more value for Nigerians, and will be filled with many innovative offerings from us at Konga.

Every new offer, such as ‘free delivery for

the whole of May’ and our new ‘Escrow Service’, which drives confidence in paying online among Nigerians, will be targeted at rewarding our customers and getting more Nigerians to see the value of shopping online” Konga recently won the award for most impactful and innovative retail brand from the Lagos chamber of commerce and industry, beating Jumia Nigeria, Addide and Shoprite. The online outfit isn’t resting on these laurels, as it is pushing through with more innovative ideas to get more Nigerians shopping online.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON THE SOUTHSOUTH STATES

•Nkpubre

AKWA IBOM

WIKE’S AGEND A GENDA

CHIEF Edet Nkpubre, a former National Southsouth Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), believes that the tripod of Ibibio, Annang and Oron should be respected in deciding the 2015 governorship in Akwa Ibom State.

THE meetings between ex-militant “Generals” and the Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, are generating uproar in Rivers State. Many wonder if 2015 is worth glorifying ex-militants for.

•PAGE 34

•Wike

•PAGE 34

FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

PAGE 29

DERIV ATION DERIVA DELTA State-born Sunny Amorighoye Mene believes the Niger Delta must have 50 per cent of money derived from oil. Anything short of this, he says amount to insulting the intelligence of the people and inciting them.

•Mene

•PAGE 33

Community protests Shell’s plans From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

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• Gas flare at dusk in Ogboinbiri

PHOTO: SEUN AKIOYE

Flares of death •How empty policies endanger lives in the creeks SEE STORY ON PAGE 30

ALSO INSIDE

T was not a boat regatta. It was an event more serious than a ceremony. In fact, it was a protest.

Indeed, it was strange and perhaps unimaginable to see people stage a demonstration on water.

Obviously, whatever compelled the Nembe-Bassambiri community in Nembe, Bayelsa Local Government Area, to empty into the river for a demonstration must be a serious matter.

The youths, women, elders, chiefs and opinion leaders were involved.

They left their comfort zones to partake in chanting solidarity songs as they sailed the vast waterways.

Their weapons were placards and their countenances bore their message.

Some of their placards shouted: "The land is ours, the oil is ours, Shell cannot divest without us"; "No, to Shell OML 29 sale"; "After polluting our land and water, Shell wants to sell our land".?

Others screamed: "No to fraudulent sale of investment". "No to Shell fraudulent divestment"; "OML 29, OPU Nembe demand justice"; "Do not sell our oil wells to strangers" and "Include our companies in OML divestment plans".

It was indisputable that the protesters were angry at their tenant, Shell Petroluem Development Company (SPDC). Their indignation was centered on the divestment plans of SPDC and the company's proposed sale of its Oil Mining Licenses (OMLs). OML 29 is the bone of contention.

Why should Shell be planning to sell OML 29, the oil well operated by the company within their domain without consulting them? "We are the landlords. Shell is the tenant. A tenant cannot take some decisions considered injurious to the landowners without informing them", they reasoned.

Niger Delta Report learnt that Shell has reportedly placed its 45 per cent stake in four oil wells, including OML 29 for sale, as part of the company's divestment.

OML 29 is considered the most lucrative asset of the wells being sold.

With the end of militancy in the region, the output of the oil well is said to have increased to 62,000 bpd of oil and 40 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d). It also holds reserves of 2.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent (boe).

•Continued on page 32

•’Every gas flare site is a crime scene’ •PAGE 31 •‘Obubra has been marginalised ’ •PAGE 35 •The battle for the soul of ONELGA •PAGE 32 • YOU HAVE STORIES FOR US? PLEASE CONTACT US ON 07066954441 OR 08123521990

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

30

NIGER DELTA REPORT COVER

How empty govt policies endanger lives in the creeks (1) With shifting deadlines to the end of gas flaring in oil exploration, many communities in the Niger Delta continue to suffer untold hardship from the deadly flames.

SEUN AKIOYE, who crisscrossed oil flare sites in the region, reports on the plight of oil-bearing communities.

N

IGER Salvation looked at the rolled cannabis held in his left hand and sighed. In the last 10 minutes he had been pulling absent mindedly at it and as it began to burn towards the tip of his fingers, he took a long and final drawl, turning his face to a side as he performed this arduous task. The resulting smoke from this action escaped through his nose in thick, black column sending a nauseating odour into the atmosphere.

“They are trying to rope us with gas pipes,” he said in-between the smoke using his right hand to draw an invincible circle around himself. “If they (Agip) pass the gas through this community and I am here smoking, you know what may happen. I am not comfortable with the idea of running gas pipes from here to Tumoh; let them run it somewhere else because we exist here. Do they want to burn us alive?” he asked, looking around his colleagues for a possible answer.

Three other youths who had accompanied Salvation to the site of the new gas pipe been operated by Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) in Ogboinbiri community, Southern Ijaw Local Government of Bayelsa state nodded their heads several times in agreement.

Ogboinbiri, a sleepy community of about 20,000 inhabitants is rich, at least in mineral resources. In 1980, the NAOC discovered profitable oil wells underneath the rural community and began oil exploration activities. By 1991, it has built its first flow station sending into the international market 60,000 barrels of crude oil and 30,000 cubic meters of gas every day.

The oil company had enjoyed a relatively peaceful atmosphere in Ogboinbiri to conduct its profitable business against the background of the restiveness in the Niger Delta region. In 2013, the company began to build a gas gathering mega station with an additional tank farm installation and a field logistics base. The contract was given to Daewoo Engineering and Construction Company –which has extensive contracts building gas plants in the Niger Delta- and hundreds of youths were employed, mostly from outside Ogboinbiri.

Today, there are 13 functional and two non-functional oil well heads in the community with a massive flow station built across the creek from the community. The oil company and its contractors were making money while the host community continues to wallow in poverty.

The flare and the community About 20 boats rocked gently to the light waves on the Apoi creek in Amasoma bay. The afternoon sun shone brightly on the brown waters of the creek while in a corner about five children engaged in what looked

like dangerous dives in the water.

Passengers filled the boats, all destined for one or the other of several riverine communities along Apoi creek. Ogboinbiri is not accessible by land; one would have to travel for an approximate one hour, twenty minutes in a small motorised boat fitted with 200horse power engine along the treacherous labyrinth of Apoi creek.

At the end of the journey is Ogboinbiri community sitting about 100 feet above the creek, hiding itself using the natural defenses of the creek. About ten steps ascended to the community from the river. At a glance, a large sign announced there are genuine engine parts for sale while another belonging to the Deeper Life Bible Church invited all visitors to a special church service.

The town itself is a mixture of ancient and modern architecture existing side by side. Three pavementsserving as roads-ran from one end of the village to the other. The houses were built in a straight line so that each house faced the pavement.

Apart from residential buildings, most of the buildings have been turned into business premises. One could argue that there are more shops selling goods than houses for people to live.

At the southern end of the town is a large playing field belonging to Apoi Clan Primary School. Every evening, aspiring international football stars divide the field into sections and played football. At about 6: pm, Okorodo Doytimieriye began to prepare for sale large quantities of what is known locally as water snail. With the assistance of her children, she boiled them and removed the soft meat inside the shells. “This is the most popular business in Ogboinbiri; we harvest the water snail and prepare them in various varieties like roasted and boiled. From February to September, we make a lot of money because this is the meat we eat,” she said.

Doytimieriye said when she invested N3, 000 in the business she can makeN6, 000 doubling her initial capital. But not everybody is lucky like Doytimieriye, others especially older women engaged in farming on land across the creek planting cassava, plantain and yam. Early in the morning, dressed in rags, they cut a pathetic figure in their dug-out canoe, paddling painfully across the creek.

In the evening, they returned in their canoe; some with a bunch of plantain and others with nothing.

But there is one universal advantage in Ogboinbiri unlike other oilbearing communities, which is the uninterrupted power supply supplied by the oil company. “The only thing we have in this village is the light and the three pavement roads

made by the oil company for the community,” one of the residents said.

At night, the community becomes a carnival. Everywhere is lit up and almost every other house has a bar with loud music blaring from giant speakers placed at the entrance of the house. Revelers filled the pavement and women fried fish and plantain till midnight.

“This is how we live our lives, we thank God for little mercies,” one of the revelers on road two said.

But underneath the rusty roofs and impoverished streets lay untold wealth in large deposits of natural oil and gas. Ogboinbiri community has existed at least since 1914 when the primary school was established long before oil was discovered. With oil came the associated gas flaring and its consequences.

Across the creek facing the community lies the fortress that housed the oil company’s facilities and personnel, it is a magnificent edifice manned by several soldiers armed with Ak47 rifles and mean looks. At the approach of a boat, soldiers hiding in the towers pointed their guns at the approaching visitors who were mandated to lift up their hands in the boat before they can be allowed to berth. The villagers looked on in amazement at the display of power and opulence.

At night when the oil flow station is lit, it took on a more majesty appearance in sharp contrast to the squalor which defines the Ogboinbiri community. About 1,000 meters from the flow station, closer to the community is a massive rig used by the oil company to flare its unwanted gas.

The flared gas emitted in form of a huge fire burning endlessly into Ogboinbiri atmosphere. During the day the huge flare is almost undistinguishable as it pours its fiery flames into the blue skies but at night, the sky directly under it became red and one could smell the obnoxious gases being emitted several meters away. The flare blazed with fury and in the early evening, children oblivious of the deadly fire, played away under the rising moon.

Nigeria’s burning atmosphere Since the insurgency in the Niger Delta began, it has been over demands for increased revenue from the regions’ natural resources and the devastating conditions created by oil spill in the region. Little was known about gas flaring, an associated effect of oil exploration. However, gas flaring which occurs in every oil bearing community is responsible for severe environmental, health, agriculture and economic loss usually to the host communities.

According to the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Nigeria has a gas reserve estimate of about

•Agip

•Ogboinbiri gas flare site

Every gas fl Executive Director, Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Nnimmo Bassey, speaks to SEUN AKIOYE on gas flaring in the Niger Delta.

A

•Bassey

S an environmentalist, what have been the most horrid effects of gas flaring that you have seen in your campaigns?

Gas flaring is a raw sore on the conscience of this nation. It is dehumanizing to communities and should be seen as a crime against nature as well. The impacts of gas flaring are many and severe. The lightest of the

600 Trillion Cubic Feet, which far outstrips the oil reserves. The country also losses $4.9 million (over N735 million) daily to gas flaring.

Nigeria flares 17.2 billion m3 of gas every year according to the World

Bank. This is estimate to be about 25 percent of the energy needs of Africa.

According to the World Bank, Nigeria ranks second in global gas flaring index with 11 percent of world gas flares next to Russia adjudged as the biggest

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

31

NIGER DELTA REPORT COVER · · · · · · · ·

The Legislation Hydrocarbons legislation: 1969 Petroleum Act and Regulations, as amended; Model Petroleum Contract Associated Gas Reinjection Act 1979 Associated Gas Reinjection (Continued Flaring of Gas) Regulations 1985 The Petroleum (Drilling and Production) Amendment Decree 1988 Environmental legislation: Effluent Limitation Regulations 1991; DPR Environmental Guidelines and Standards for the Petroleum Industry 1991 FEPA EIA Guidelines for E&P Projects 1994, Decree No. 58/88 Petroleum Industry Bill 2012

· Top 10 world polluters Position 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Agip flow station in Ogboinbiri

Country Percentage Russia 27 Nigeria 11 Iran 8 Iraq 7 USA 5 Algeria 4 Kazakhstan 3 Angola 3 Saudi Arabia 3 Venezuela 3 Source: World Bank

‘

The Gas Flaring bill passed by the previous Senate had more teeth than the provisions of the pending PIB. In fact, the Gas Reinjection Act of 1979 was more serious about stopping gals faring than the PIB as it stands now •Ogboinbiri hospital overgrown with weeds.

PHOTOS: SEUN AKIOYE

‘

flare site is a crime scene, says Nnimmo Bassey,

The law requires that associated gas should be reinjected or harnessed for

utilization. Where associated gas is to be flared, the oil company is required to obtain a permit from the responsible minister and to pay a fine for the objectionable act. But most importantly, the permit or fine come only after the company has presented an acceptable plan to stop the flaring at the specific sites. The Act never anticipated reckless and open ended flouting of its requirements as is currently the case.

The situation now is that the oil companies are simply running amok, completely unrestrained. Notice that in the past the government used to set deadlines for stoppage

of gas flaring. That is no longer the case today. The convenient cover under which the companies persist in this atrocious act is that they are making plans to use the gas in power plants. The truth is that this is largely a cover. A high ratio of gas used in power plants in the country are from natural gas fields and are not gas associated with crude oil extraction.

The government has been unable to face this situation squarely because we are running a mono-product economy the government is tied to the apron strings of the oil companies. The government is so unconcerned about this

obnoxious act that it provides the oil companies sufficient reason to ignore the crime also.

We say this because the companies have been complaining that the government is not stepping up to the plate as a joint venture partner and keeps reneging on making necessary counterpart funds available. This is scandalous. It speaks very poorly of the government and of the nation. It sentences our people to avoidable harm.

Do you believe Nigeria can make any appreciable impact in tackling this issue especially with the non passage of the PIB? The PIB does not offer any

solution to the problem of gas flaring. It is the same old story.

It will allow the scam to persist at the pleasure of whoever is the responsible minister. That is the sad truth. The Gas Flaring bill passed by the previous Senate had more teeth than the provisions of the pending PIB. In fact, the Gas Reinjection Act of 1979 was more serious about stopping gals faring than the PIB as it stands now. The PIB only says that a date for stoppage of flaring will be as agreed by the “minister” after the PIB comes into effect. Nothing could be more lax. The oil companies must be laughing at us.

index within five years of operation. Also through the Associated Gas Re-Injection Act Number 99 of 1979, the Nigerian government required oil corporations operating in Ni-

geria to guarantee zero flares

by January 1, 1984. There have been several deadlines by the government to end gas flaring but operators continue to operate with impunity.

Operators prefer to pay the stipulated fines instead. In the Gas Re-injection Act of 1979, for instance, there is a penalty fee of N0.05 for every million cubic feet (MCF) of gas flared. In

1998, it was reviewed to N10 for every million cubic feet (MCF) and was again upgraded to US $ 3.5 for every 1,000 cubic feet of gas flared.

The House of Representatives

also amended the Gas Re-Injection Act and stipulated a penalty of $500, 000 for defaulters.

•Watch out for the concluding part next week

impacts that is glaring in the communities where these flames of hell roar is that the corrugated metal roofs in the communities corrode rapidly due to acid rain caused by the mixture of nitrous and sulfur oxides in the fumes with moisture in the atmosphere.

This places economic pressures on the locals who have to contend with frequent roofs replacement or repairs.

Routine gas flaring is a big insult on our people. You just need to imagine living in a community with those toxic fires burning non-stop for decades, roaring noisily, banishing the night and yet the community stays without

electricity.

Why is it difficult for the government to implement the laws on reduction of gas flares by the multinational oil companies?

The Associated Gas Reinjection Act of 1979 is not about reducing routine gas flaring, but about stopping the act. Right from 1984 when the Act came into force, those who engage in routine gas flaring have been committing crimes.

In fact, every gas flare site is a crime scene. That Act has not been repealed. It is still in force.

polluter in the world.

The first attempt to curb gas flaring was in 1969 with a proclamation by Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon that oil companies must achieve zero flare

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

U

As Dickson awaits Jonathan's verdict

NLESS there is a change in plans, President Goodluck Jonathan will be in Bayelsa State soon for a two-day working visit. The President is expected to arrive the state after the SouthSouth zonal rally of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Bayelsa is the state of Jonathan and he has been visiting both Yenagoa, the capital of the state and his hometown in Otuoke, Ogbia Local Government Area for private and party activities especially since Seriake Dickson became the governor.

However, the proposed visit is expected to be special and remarkable.

It will be a period for the President to assess the performance of Dickson who has been tagged the "godson" of the President. The governor is at the midterm of his administration and since he rode into the Creek Havens (sobriquet for the state's Government House in Yenagoa), his "godfather" has yet to appraise his giant strides in all the sectors of the economy.

The forthcoming working visit will assist Jonathan to justify the massive support he gave Dickson before and after the 2012 election that made him the governor. Jonathan was precise, firm and resilient in his quest to change the past administration which he described as a monumental failure. He provided the political substratum and fulcrum for the current governor to assume the administration of the state.

So, the President would want to know how far the state has gone in terms of development under the restoration government of Dickson. Observers believe that Jonathan would like to see newly constructed roads, good public schools, improved health-

care infrastructure and services and other public infrastructure dotting different parts of the state.

Already, there are indications that the proposed two days may not be enough for the President to go round and inaugurate all the projects completed by Dickson. Investigations revealed that the government has lined up 33 projects for his godfather to inaugurate.

Undoubtedly, Jonathan will have a busy schedule. According to a list of projects released by the state Ministry of Works, Jonathan is expected to inaugurate four roads. The AIT-Sanni Abacha, Azikoro and the State Archive roads have been lined up for inauguration in Yenagoa, the state capital.

Also the Angalabiri-Toru Orua link road contracted to Zeerock Nigeria Limited will be commissioned by the President.

In the list of Yenagoa projects are the state-of-the-art multi door courthouse, four massive secretariat annexes and the Bayelsa State Integrated Communication Control and Coordination Centre.

The President is further expected to inaugurate one block of two storey building, 18 two bedroom flats, police post, one block of two storey building and four other projects at the ongoing construction of a diagnostic centre located within the 500 bed hospital complex in Yenagoa.

Besides, Yenagoa and Sagbama, Amasoma in Southern Ijaw and Kaiama in Kolokuma/Opokuma have been included in the itinerary of President Jonathan. In Amasoma, the home of the former Governor of the State, Chief Diepreye Alameiseigha, the President will inaugurate seven blocks

of one bedroom flats at the camp of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

At Kaiama are an administrative block, hostel blocks, dinning hall and many blocks of quarters at the permanent site of the NYSC orientation camp in the area. Perhaps, President Jonathan will be glad to see the ongoing infrastructural development of the Boro Town, named after the late Ijaw hero, Isaac Boro.

The President described as a true Ijaw man will be happy to inaugurate an Outdoor Auditorium, two duplexes, four bedroom bungalow, a bedroom flat and lascaping of the town.

So, expectations are high as the governor, members of his cabinet and the people of Bayelsa await Jonathan's first working visit to his state. Dickson's Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, maintains that the state is ready to receive the President.

Describing the proposed visit as special, the CPS said Jonathan will be proud of the achievements of the governor.

"This is the President's home state and we receive the President every now and then. But this one is very special especially because this is the first time we are inviting the President to come on a state visit to see what the restoration has done so far.

"I am sure when the President comes, he will be very proud. It is not just the government that is saying it, the people are also saying it that this government has done so well in every sector. When the President comes we will take him round to see those projects that Bayelsans are applauding us for", he said.

He added that the governor deliberately reserved big projects for the

•Jonathan

President to inaugurate. according to him the proposed visit is the celebration of good governance in Bayelsa State under the leadership of the present governor.

The CPS said: "Everything is on top gear to ensure that when he comes, it will be one big event. It is like one big family coming together. There is no godfather or son in this.

"What is most important is that we have a performing governor. A governor that any President will be proud

•Dickson

of whether he is a President from the north, south or west.

"But, thankfully, he is our President because he is from here. So, he will be proud of what this governor has done.

This president will be proud of Governor Dickson for the giant strides that he has recorded in the state for the past two years."

He said the President would be proud to see Dickson's achievements on security. The CPS insisted that President Jonathan would congratulate

Dickson on ensuring that people in the state sleep with their eyes closed.

Referring to Dicksn's giant stride on security as something to cheer, he said the huge investments on the sector had paid off. He said the President would be glad that a governor of his home state has become a model for other governors to emulate.

"Look at the peace we have enjoyed in the state. We are almost taken this security for granted. People go to sleep with their eyes closed because

the massive investment we have made paid off. That is something to cheer and that is something l know the President will be very proud of.

"It is nice for the President who is from here to be in Abuja and to know that his home state is at peace and he can use his home state as a model for every other state. You heared when the President talked about the need for the government to be responsible for the security of their various states.

"So, Governor Dickson s a role model for other governors for the kind of work he has done in the area of security and that will make any president proud. So, if the President is losing sleep over insecurity in other parts of the country, he is not losing sleep over insecurity in his home state."

Besides, he said the restoration government has improved largely on the infrastructure in the state. He said the President would be proud to see that Bayelsa has changed.

He said: "The President will come home and see that it is not the same Bayelsa that he left behind when he was called up to a national assignment. He will see that this is a new Bayelsa under the leadership of a countryman governor.

"He will come and physically inspect the projects. He will see that it is the same level of development that had taken place here that is taking place in other parts of the state. It will be a thing of joy for the President to see that development cuts across the state."

Furthermore, Iworiso-Markson said President Jonathan would be elated to see the continuation of some of the policies and programmes he introduced when was the governor of the state.

For instance, he said the administra-

tion has taken some of the policies and programmes to a greater level. For instance, he said the government has pursued with vigour Jonathan's programme on gifted children's education.

He said: "He (Jonathan) will also be proud to see that some of the policies he initiated while as governor, this government has taken these policies to another level. A very critical one is the policy on the gifted children's programme.

"We have taken it to another level and the records are there for everybody to see. So, the President who initiated that programme will be proud to see that it has not died. I am proud to say that some of these students have graduated in various schools across the country.

"What is interesting to note about it is that these are children of ordinary people who before now did not imagine that they will have the privilege of having their wards attending schools otherwise reserved for the children of the elite.

"A number of them have gotten scholarship from this same government to go for further studies abroad. That is something to learn about governance that it is continuity. We may even bring some f the students to meet with Mr. President.

There is so much more to show to Mr. President."

Beyond performance assessment, the CPS believes that the proposed visit is an opportunity for people in the state state to celebrate the President, their kinsman. He said Jonathan has done well in transforming the country despite prevailing challenges.

The battle for the soul of ONELGA

T

HE crisis rocking Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/ Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State, looks like a youth crisis but it is actually a battle of supremacy between the ruling All Peoples Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Trouble started when the council Chairman, Dr Augustine Ahiamadu, thinking that he was doing his people good appealed to the state Governor, Rotimi Amaechi to lift the ban on Omoku Youth Association in the area which the state government had proscribed in 2009 due to crisis that rocked the area.

In February this year, after several pleas from Ahiamadu and others, the governor lifted the ban and subsequently, Ahiamadu, who is now a member of APC, inaugurated the youth association but made it known to them that it was just for one year.

Sources alleged that the Chairman of PDP in the state, Chief Felix Obuah, who is also a native of Omoku, con-

From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt demned Ahiamadu's action and reportedly inaugurated a factional youth association.

Ahiamadu, using the power conferred on him by the ONELGA byelaw, dissolved the youth association.

Furthermore, thinking that the Community Development Committee (CDC) of Omoku was also going to foment trouble, he invoked the Rivers State Regulatory Law, 2010 and also dissolved the committee.

Angered by this, the youths protested and barricaded the ONELGA council secretariat, which is owned by six zones in the area namely: Egi, Omoku, Igburu, Usomini, Egbema and Ndoni. They blocked the council with a coffin. They pasted the pictures of Amaechi and Ahiamadu on the coffin and said they would not remove it.

They demanded N16 million, several tubers of yam, goats and other items.

This incident, which took place on May 1, prevented the chairman and

his workers from observing the Workers' Day celebration.

Not satisfied with what they had already done, on May 5, the youths stormed major streets in Omoku protesting suspension of the leadership of their association.

Their protest crippled economic activities in the town leading to the closure of banks, motor parks and the main markets. Traders were forced to lock their stores for fear of losing their wares to the protesting youths.

The protest also forced parents to keep their children away from school while some residents relocated to neighbouring communities for fear of being attacked.

Some community people told Niger Delta Report that while the rampage was going on, the Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, was in Omoku claiming that he had an assignment at the Federal College of Education (Technical). But a resident of the area told Niger Delta Report: "Everybody knows (that the college) has been on strike for more than six

months now."

The Assistant Police spokesperson in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the police was "making frantic effort to restore law and order in the area".

Speculations were rife in the area that the protest was engineered by the PDP, which is the opposition party in the area since Ahiamadu and other political office holders in the council have defected to the APC with the governor.

To contain this crisis, Ahiamadu on May 6, wrote the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar, complaining of the crisis rocking his council and the seeming refusal of the police in the division to step in and restore law and order.

He said: "Every crisis being grappled by the Federal Government today started on a small scale but the inability of security agencies to nip it in the bud caused it to escalate."

Ahiamadu urged the IGP not to allow a few individuals to hold government and people to ransom due to complicity of the police.

To draw the governor's attention to the crisis in the area, the people from other communities in the area trooped to Government House, Port Harcourt on May 7 on a peaceful march to protest the crisis.

The people carried placards with messages like: "Oba, Felix Obuah cannot hold us on hostage"; "Oga, pls call Oba of Omoku to order": "Oba and Felix are selfish; We want Hon Austin"; ONELGA Council HQ must move to Obite"; "Hon. Austin Aiamadu Government must stand" and "Go-Round!

Leadership is by choice Not by Force Leave ONELGA people Alone."

The leader of the group, Mr Sunny Esor, alleged that since 1991 when the ONELGA Council was created, Omoku youths have allegedly been a threat to peace, especially when the council chairman is not from their town (Omoku).

He said: "The fact that council secretariat is located at Omoku does not imply that it is the property of Omoku but it rather belongs to the six geopolitical zones of ONELGA."

•The people of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni protesting the barricading of their council secretariat

Esor said the continued blockade of their council gate was disrupting governance, adding: "We can no longer tolerate this continuous hostage of the six geo-political zones by a section of one geo-political zone as in a democracy, minority would have their say but majority would have their way."

Bayelsa community protests Shell’s divestment plans Continued from page 29 Shell cited oil theft and pipeline vandalism as reasons why it decided to engage in divestment.

They were not against the plans of divestment by Shell, but they sought to be included in all the processes.

They were large and intimidating in number. Over 100 of them turned up for the demonstration and they came on over 15 speedboats.

Everybody who mattered in Nembe-Bassambiri was there. They were led by an influential member of the community's Oil and Gas Committee identified as Chief Brigidi. All the major oil platforms of Shell, the Santa Barbara Flow Station, Tora Manifold and Odema Flow Station felt their presence.

Nembe waters became boisterous, tossing and splashing as various sizes

and sounds of speedboats cruised along them. The presence of the protesters initially created panic among Shell workers living in houseboats. It kept operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) guarding the facilities on their toes.

But the tension dissolved gradually after the soldiers discovered that the protesters came in peace. The presence of women, young girls and elders helped to convince the soldiers that all was well.

At the Santa Barbara Flow Station, the protesters marched on the facility.

A member of the Nembe-Bassambiri Council of Chiefs, Chief Bukunor Alfred, said members of the community were angry at the plan of SPDC to sell oil blocks in the area without consulting them.

He said the Council of Chiefs sent delegates to discuss the issue with SPDC but he noted that the emissaries returned with disappointment.

He said though SPDC has contributed in the development of the community, the company was wrong to take a major decision of divesting without consulting its landlords.

He asked the company to down tools for three days and engage the community in a dialogue to resolve the knotty issue.

Heads of different segments of the community took turns to express their grievances. The Chairman of Opu-Nembe Improvement Union (ONIU), Mr. Ebinyo Robert, said the community would not allow Shell to leave unceremoniously after it devastated the environment with oil exploitation.

He insisted that the company must incude the community in all the processes involved in selling OML 29. He warned that individuals and companies indicating interest to buy the oil wells should desist or have the community to

On this note, they pleaded with the governor to permit Ahiamadu to relocate the council secretariat to another community in ONELGA. They also called on security agencies to protect lives and properties of ONELGA people.

The Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mr Fortune Oguru who

received them on behalf of the governor, said their request would be communicated to Amaechi.

For now, the governor has not made any official statement on the ONELGA crisis. Wike, Obuah and the Oba have also kept silent. Thus everyone is watching and waiting to see how the matter would be resolved.

contend with.

He said the communities have nominated three companies, Amot Oil E&P Limited, A-Abas Resources and Isea BMG, to participate in the bidding process.

Also, the representative of the opinion leaders in the community, Mr. Ikakumo Tubu, warned Shell to avoid repeating a mistake it earlier made when it came to operate in the area. He said lack of adequate consultations at the beginning of the company's operations was the reason behind the community's problems with its Kalabari neighbours in Rivers State.

After the women had spoken, Chief Brigidi said, the protesters were not done yet. He asked the Community Development Committee led by Mr. John Twonmute and the youth group led by Mr. Otubo Isake to make their feelings on the development known to SPDC. Twonmute, while addressing the comoany, said: "This community is a peaceloving community and since your stay here nobody has made a mistake of coming to challenge you. Our present here is to tell you that before Shell could sell their properties, the community should be fully contacted.”

NIGER DELTA REPORT INTERVIEW ‘Derivation formula less than 50 per cent unacceptable to Niger Delta’ Mr Sunny Amorighoye Mene, in this interview with SHOLA O’NEIL, explains why Niger Delta must have 50 per cent of money derived from oil.

W

HAT is the position of the Niger Delta and Itsekiri people on the recent call for the reduction of the 13 per cent derivarion?

First, let me clarify that Nigeria is a Federal Republic and resource control is an essential component of a Federal Republic. If our founding fathers at independence accepted this political arrangement of a federal structure, then the argument to the contrary is false and disservice to those who fought for our independence. The position they are pushing threatens the unity and peaceful coexistence of Nigeria because, except we are deceiving ourselves, we cannot say in one breath that we are a federal republic and track back on the tenets of the federalism.

The oil activities in the Niger Delta have completely devastated our environment; devastation of our flora and fauna, extinguishing our means of livelihood and truncating sustainable development of our communities.

When the ACF claim that they are the owners of oil or that it is owned •Mene

by Nigeria without looking at the devastating effect of its exploitation, they seem to call us fools and this is what is really annoying us. As a people who are feeling the impacts of the oil exploration while people who have failed to exploit their own resources fail to realise the problems we are passing through and then begin to claim that the resources belong to them; it is provocative to the extreme.

The postulation of the ACF is that their resources were used to exploit the oil… (cuts in) That is not true. They should realise that they are talking to very educated people in the Niger Delta, who followed the developments of this country, who actively participated in the negotiation of Nigeria independence. We do not know what they think when they say it is the northern resources that was used to develop the oil resource. Oil resources in the Niger Delta were developed through joint venture; foreign investors brought their money to exploit oil and pay royalties and share profit with government. At what time was the northern resources used to develop the oil in the Niger Delta?

You see, this kind of assertion provokes the Niger Deltans because their position tends to look at us as uninformed, uneducated and it is not true.

I say with all authority that northern resources were not used to develop oil resources in the Niger Delta. That is why we are calling for restructuring of Nigeria because until we do, we cannot move forward. Some people cannot at one end of the country refuse to be productive, just lay back and enjoy oil resources without contributing anything and at the end of the day turn around to call us fools.

That is why we say, let us go back and renegotiate through a conference, sovereign or whatever, the basis of our coexistence because what we prac-

tice today is not what was thought by our founding fathers; we are not practising federalism. It is clear that the Nigerian project today is not working, the country called Nigeria has failed.

The position paper by the north also raised the issue of the South not wanting to play the role of being their bothers' keeper because of demand for resource control; do you not think they have a point?

We are very willing to be our brothers' keeper that is why we are not saying we want to take everything. We are saying in a federal system, we will pay appropriate tax to the centre.

All over the world, when you pay tax, it is used to take care of those who are not as endowed as others. It is a universal principle.

But in a situation where people who do not own the resources are saying they will take it from the owners not matter what... they are also saying that the meagre 15percent is more than enough? That is being insensitive to our plights.

When we pay tax to the centre, it can be used to provide education, healthcare and other essential services for areas that don't have the resources.

Money can also be given to them to develop their own resources so that all of us can contribute something to the central purse. You have 44 local governments in certain states where all they do at the end of the month is collect money, share the money and go back to their villages and when it is end of the month again, they come back, share money and go back. It is promoting laziness. Leaders we have in Nigeria today are political rent takers and a country cannot survive like that. A country that does not produce, that is only dependant on these meagre earnings will not do well economically. We are prepared to concede something, but to say they want to take all and give five percent, is to threaten the unity and peaceful coexistence of Nigeria because the people of the Niger Delta will not take it: we will not take anything less than 50 per cent. We accept 50 per cent to be very considerate, anything less than that is exploitative, unacceptable and I tell you will threaten the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria.

What do you see as the problem with the current political dispensation in Nigeria?

Federalism recognises the fact that the people are not homogenous but are a diverse people. So to rule the diverse people, they adopt federalism where their diversity is recognised and you rule them on the basis of that diversity. In Nigeria today we are being ruled as homogenous people where someone at the centre will give directive and policy that tends to portray that we are homogenous; we are not we are very diverse. Until we recognise this diversity and governor the country on the basis of our diversity, we will not move forward. That is why the country is not moving forward.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

34

NIGER DELTA REPORT INTERVIEW

2015: Akpabio should respect tripod a Chief Edet Nkpubre is a former National South-South Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). As an Oron man, he is one of those advocating for Oron governorship. He believes that the tripod of Ibibio, Annang and Oron should be respected in deciding the 2015 governorship in Akwa Ibom State. In this interview with Kazeem Ibrahym, he argues that administrative boundaries of senatorial districts should be ignored while politics of tripod should be followed in deciding the next governor of Akwa Ibom State.

W

HAT is your opinion about the town hall meeting that was held by the Governor Godswill Akpabio in Oron Federal Constituency as it concerns Oro 2015 governorship aspiration?

The summary of that town hall meeting, if we will take our governor by his words, was satisfactory to Oron and their aspiration. The summary was that Oron people thanked the Governor for zoning it to Eket Senatorial District with particular reference to Oron governorship 2015. The governor requested that Hon. Robinson Uwak should move a motion for the governorship to move to Oron and it was supported

by Hon. Alice Ekpenyong and there was uproar in the house.

But if you go home to sleep with that you are a kid politician. What the governor did in the town hall meetings was to size up opinions and then in the end he said he was going to call for a stakeholders’ meeting to take a final decision which federal constituency should have his support. So, we are waiting for that meeting and that is why we are continuing with our advocacy. The advocacy is that even though it has come to Eket Senatorial District, Oron people have a better case. They are the largest ethnic group in Eket Sena-

torial District just like Annang which is the largest in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and it was given to Annang. I remember I asked former Governor Victor Attah, that now that you are shifting it to Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, where will it go? Attah asked me Nkpubre was it to go to Ini or Ikono? It is for the Annangs. It is so clear. So now that it has been shifted to Eket Senatorial District, I hope somebody will ask Governor Akpabio the same question I asked Attah and I hope he will answer the way Attah answered. Attah answered, is Annang not the largest ethnic group in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District? It should go there. Therefore, I expect Akpabio to affirm that it is the turn of the Oron people being the largest ethnic group in Eket Senatorial District.

But how would you reconcile the governorship aspiration of Oron and the intention of some of your people to run for the Senate?

Very clear, very clear, when Annang people were advocating for the governorship in 2007, Hon. Saviour Udoh aspired for the position of the Senate and he won the primaries while Akpabio won the governorship ticket. It was negotiated. The Ibibio people who are our elder brothers

objected to the Annangs keeping the two positions. And the Annang conceded the Senate to an Ibibio man from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.

The overall interest of the Annang superseded and he conceded. The overall interest of the Oron people is to produce the governor; any other interest is subservient to that.

You saying that since Oron is the largest oil producer that should be a precondition for clinching the governorship in 2015?

No we are not even saying that. We are saying please do what we have been doing in Akwa Ibom. What we have been doing is that we have been moving on tripod. Ibibio people have taken; Annang people have taken it is now the turn of Oron. Forget about the administrative boundaries called senatorial districts or federal constituencies. Share things the way God placed us in the area now called Akwa Ibom before the administrative boundaries were created.

God put us here, Annang, Oron, Ibibio and the other smaller ethnic groups. When we celebrated the creation of Akwa Ibom State all the paramount rulers in the state gathered at the stadium and they prayed and poured libation that this state that in this state political offices should be

•Eghagha

shared to reflect these three ethnic groups so that there would be peace in Akwa Ibom.

That was the prayer and libation was poured. Those who try to do things contrary

to that are attracting the anger of gods of the nations of Akwa Ibom.

Are you aware that some Oron sons and daughters are in league with Uyo Senatorial District to produce a gov-

Uproar over Wike’s meetings with ex-militants The meetings between ex-militant “Generals” and the Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, are generating uproar in Rivers State. BISI OLANIYI reports

O

N April 26, the Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, visited an ex-militant “General,” Soboma Jackrich, aka Egberipapa, at his palatial Usokun-Kalabari residence in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. He was said to have gone there to solicit Jackrich’s support for his 2015 governorship ambition.

Jackrich, who is aspiring to be the Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Council of Rivers State, is a strong supporter of Wike and President Goodluck Jonathan.

Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi does not want Wike to succeed him, since both of them are Ikwerre.

During the visit to Jackrich, who is also the founder/leader of the Kengema Unity Forum (KUF), the supervising minister of education urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers

State to unite and work as a family, to enable the party win the 2015 general elections in the state.

Jackrich noted that Wike was loyal to the President and making efforts to reposition the PDP. He assured that the KUF would continue to sensitise and mobilise Rivers people to ensure that President is re-elected in 2015.

The ex-warlord, who is also the Director-General of the Network for the Defence of Democracy and Good Governance (NDDGG), stated that the activities of the GDI in the area had tended to create division among PDP members, a situation he described as inimical to the continuous progress of the party.

The former freedom fighter assured the supervising minister of education of the support and cooperation of the KUF to ensuring that the party triumph in all elections in Rivers state in 2015, claiming that Nigerians has never had it so good,

since independence in 1960.

On May 8, the supervising minister of education held a political meeting with another ex-militant “General,” Solomon Ndigbara, aka Osama Bin Ladin, and his boys at their Yeghe-Ogoni hometown in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The ruling APC, Rivers state chapter, however, accused Wike of insensitivity, wondering why he would opt for politicking, while the abducted Chibok girls are still in the den of the Boko Haram insurgents.

APC said: “As the global calls for the release of the abducted girls heightened this week, on Thursday (May 8) night, APC members who infiltrated the gathering of the PDP, confirmed that Nyesom Wike held a political meeting with notorious warlord, Solomon Ndigbara, aka Osama Bin Ladin, and his boys at YegheOgoni in Gokana Local Government

•Wike

Area of Rivers State, where certain decisions (now in our custody) were reached.

“The APC in Rivers State is not surprised that Nyesom Wike, under whose watch as Minister of Education, the girls of Chibok Secondary School where abducted, returned to conduct nocturnal political campaigns in his home state of Rivers, while the entire world is pre-occupied and speaking with one voice, calling for the return of our abducted girls.

“For over 9 months, lecturers of polytechnics and colleges of education in Nigeria have been on strike,

ernor from Uyo? They have their own reasons to be there whether their reasons are acceptable is another issue. One of them granted an interview and he said this very clearly that his

without the Supervising Minister of Education batting an eyelid.

“We are also not surprised that a supposed father like Wike would feel unperturbed about the harrowing experiences parents of the Chibok girls are going through at the moment. We are not surprised, because the Governor of Rivers State has already made it public that Nyesom Wike once swore with the name of his (Wike’s) children in vain; confirming that the minister is a man completely bereft of the values of family obligation and responsibility.”

Wike, while responding through the Director-General of the PDP in Rivers state, Emeka Woke, an engineer and two-term Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area, noted that the APC leaders needed help and should be ignored.

Woke said: “APC leaders and members are jittery. They are resorting to cheap blackmail. It is very obvious that they are afraid of Barr.

Wike’s political sagacity and rising political profile. He has the right to hold private meetings. He has never abandoned his official duties.

“Chief Wike is doing what he ought to do on the abducted Chibok girls. You must bear in mind that the Federal Ministry of Education issued a warning that the Borno State Government should relocate the girls from the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, which was ignored. The security agencies are also working hard to rescue the girls.”

Some politicians are insisting that the upland/riverine dichotomy

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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NIGER DELTA REPORT BRIEFLY

agreement ‘

father was one of those people who sat down to arrange how power should shift in Akwa Ibom. That agreement has been respected till now. And he is afraid that they are not going to respect

that agreement with his own reading of the goings-on in Akwa Ibom. So, he is playing his Option B of Oron Nation.

That is what he said. And he has explained why he is playing option B and that is if a candidate from Uyo senatorial district is in government for 8 years Oron man would have the opportunity to contest after 8 years when power shifts to Eket senatorial district. But if other ethnic groups from Eket senatorial district becomes a governor in 2015 it would take 24 years before power can return Eket Senatorial district for an Oron man to contest. It means Oron people would never smell the governorship of Akwa Ibom for 40 years. Do you know the effect of that on a people?

Bondage. You develop a slave mentality. You start celebrating crumbs when you start celebrating crumbs your generation becomes slaves to the system. They won’t even have the confidence to change their situation. We are saying that it is not right.

Chief Don Etiebet, a founding father and permanent member Board of Trustees of the PDP recently said that the PDP has no official position on zoning. Why are you anchoring your governorship aspiration on zoning?

Zoning has never been sacrosanct. It is not a law and has never carried the force of law.

But is has a moral force of persuasion. When it is zoned to a particular area it doesn’t constitutionally exclude aspirants from other zones. Zoning has never been a part of guidelines for screening in and out of aspirants by or great party PDP. But it has the moral strength to persuade the voters.

should be considered in the choice of the next governor of the state, stressing that since 1999, all the governors, Dr. Peter Odili, Sir Celestine Omehia and Amaechi are from the upland part.

Still on Wike’s meetings with the ex-warlords, the PDP, Rivers chapter, accused the APC of prying into the internal and private affairs of its leader (Wike).

The Rivers Chairman of PDP, Chief Felix Obuah, insisted that the private visits of the supervising minister of education to “notable leaders” in the state were geared towards building a stronger, virile, progressive and united party.

PDP said: “Violation of one’s privacy has always been the handiwork of idlers, which the APC politicians symbolise.

Rather than pokenosing into PDP’s private matters, the APC leaders should do well by looking inwards and devising ways to save its sinking boat and battered image, arising from its failed congresses.”

While pleading with the Rivers people not to give in to the APC’s “rabble,” the PDP also admonished Wike not to be deterred by the antics of the members of the APC. In his response, Ndigbara, who described himself as the Nigerian Peace Ambassador

and Gbenemene (Chief) SiraBara-Bateerah of Ogoniland, claimed that the leaders of the Rivers chapter of the APC, rather than focus on issues, chose to send “sniffing dogs” and “flies” to get information about people’s private life.

He said: “Let me make it clear that the meeting I held with the Supervising Minister of Education on Thursday, May 8, 2014 had in attendance, the President of the Ogoni Youth Council, Comrade Sunny Bekanwaa; two former Local Government Council Chairmen in Rivers State: Drs. Fred Kpakol and Jacobson Mbiinah; as well as a former Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Dum Deekor, and over 10,000 Ogoni youths, who came to show solidarity during the minister’s visit.

“It was a private visit from the minister to show his love and support on my recent victory in court, against those who persecuted me innocently and used the state security forces to chase me out of my home since 2011.

“I do not see how the private visit has frustrated any effort at moving Rivers State or Nigeria forward. I urge the members of the APC in Rivers State to focus on issues and not my private life.”

Zoning has never been sacrosanct. It is not a law and has never carried the force of law. But is has a moral force of persuasion. When it is zoned to a particular area it doesn’t constitutionally exclude aspirants from other zones.

Zoning has never been a part of guidelines for screening in and out of aspirants by or great party PDP. But it has the moral strength to persuade the voters.

‘

‘Obubra has been marginalised for too long’

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ITH 2015 round the corner, dust is already been raised in the political space in Cross River, one of such areas being the Obubra/Etung federal constituency where there has been cries of imposition and injustice.

Currently occupying the seat is John Owan-Enoh from Etung, who has been there since 2003.

However, the people of Obubra feel they have been left out of the mainstream of politics for too long and it was only fair that they seat comes to them having agreed that it should be on a rotational basis.

T

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

Former permanent secretary in the federal civil service, Dr Mathew Achigbe, is one of those who feel the representation is imposed on them and there is need for change.

His words: “For decades now, the people of Obubra have never been elected into a high office outside the ones that are exclusive to them nor appointed into any office at the national level. Initially I thought it was an oversight, but other political development with time has shown that it is a deliberate gang-up to put the people permanently down. I say so because the federal constituency

From Shola O’Neil, Port Harcourt

Economy," as its team.

He said: "Let me use this opportunity to reiterate my sincere appreciation to His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan (CON), the Executive Governor of Delta State for approving the retreat. This is an attestation of his commitment to supporting the DBIR to actualise its mandate of increased revenue generation in line with the vision of "Delta Beyond Oil," Hon JoelOnowakpo stated.

He said in spite of the challenges associated with the new Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Act as amended in 2011, his Board has raised the average Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N1.2Billion in 2009 to about N4.2Billion presently on a monthly basis amounting to over 250% increase over a four year period.

He said theme of the retreat was apt and very relevant bearing in mind the higher revenue projection of N62.49Billion for the year 2014, adding that it was imperative for them to double their efforts and do things differently to enable the board meet her target even surpass it.

Expert harps on hygiene promotion

S Nigerians continue to clamour for improved healthcare delivery, a health expert and member of Global Hygiene Council, Dr Nneoma Idika has identified hygiene promotion as the most cost-effective strategy in reduction of illness. This, she said, could be achieved through Dettol Hygiene Initiative which Reckitt Benckiser, a global health, hygiene and home care products manufacturer propagates.

Dr Idika, who spoke in Benin-City, the Edo State capital, said hygiene promotion has become important to public health policy makers as low cost illness reduction strategy.

In a paper entitled “Dettol’s

T

I didn’t feel that a former ward in Ikom local government that was joined to Obubra to form a constituency to keep power permanently mortgaging the interest and future of a larger group, Obubra indefinitely.

“I support the argument that if people are doing well in office you do not bring them down but if they have stayed and exhausted themselves then they should be changed. The representation we have is not effective. We would mobilise against it and Obubra has suffered for too long.

“The political space should be loosened so that Cross Riverians can choose who is best for them.”

Delta tax board increases IGR to N4.9bn

HE Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR) has said it has successfully prosecuted 55 tax offenders and recovered over N1.2Billion from defaulters operating in the hospitality, oil and gas, and other sectors in the state.

The Chairman of the board, Hon Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, who made the revelation, said the effort has helped boost the state Internal Generated Revenue profile by 250 per cent in five years. He said IGR now stands at N4.2bn monthly against N1.2bn in 2009.

He said he was determined to prosecute defaulters no matter how highly placed they are in the society, adding that the board has filed 55 cases against defaulters from which it expects to reap N72m in the next few months.

He said the most effective ways of ensuring compliance in the state was to go after them with the full might of the law.

“This approach has been tried, tested and is trusted by all leading Tax Administration Agencies across the world.”

Hon. Joel-Onowakpo made the observation while declaring open the 2014 retreat for staff of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, holding at Excel Hotel, Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

The retreat has "Teamwork for Achieving Revenue Targets in Black

A

that was given to us since 1999 for Obubra/Etung. Etung has only 32, 000 as against Obubra with 82, 000. I am not too sure that God who created us had made us genetically inferior that we cannot hold public office. Holding office in itself is not important. How the office is held is what is important to me.”

Achigbe, who ran for the seat in 2011 election, said he was not so much interested in running again as he was that there should be equity and justice by ensuring Obubra gets it now.

He said: “In 2010 I left the service to contest the office of Federal House of Representatives for Obubra/Etung where.

By Chinaka Okoro

Contribution to Health and Hygiene in its 50 years in Nigeria” which she presented at the scientific session of the 54th Annual General Conference and Delegate Meeting of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) which the firm sponsored, Dr. Idika further said common hygiene behaviours that could improve cleanliness and lead to good health include frequent hand washing, bathing with soap and water, among others.

She said: ‘‘Hygiene practice in the home, environment and hospital plays an important role in preventing infection transmission like common cold, influenza, gastroenteritis, diar-

rhoeal infections and so on.’’

While pointing out that several empirical studies have lent credence to the association between hygiene and rate of infection reduction, she stated that hand washing with soap in particular has reduced diarrhoeal diseases by 50 per cent while germicides have significantly caused reduction in vaginal candidiosis.

Dr. Idika said studies have also shown that Dettol antiseptic liquid has caused a reduction in bacterial population in water for bathing in comparison with local purification agents like alum, lime, salt, potash and Moringa oliefera seeds.

Aligned to the theme of the

conference entitled, “Healthcare Delivery and National Development: A Critical Appraisal in Nigeria’s 100 Years Existence,” she said Dettol has been part of the national efforts to improve S Nigerians continue to clamour for improved healthcare delivery, a healthcare delivery in the country since its 50 years of existence in Nigeria.

She highlighted some of the corporate social responsibility initiatives of Reckitt Benckiser to include contact programmes with new mothers and over three million children from 1,000 schools in Nigeria, especially in Lagos, Oyo and Kano states and Abuja.

Who ordered demolition of private school in Effurun?

HE efforts of the Delta State government to clean up Warri consumed a private school last week.

The school on New Layout Road, Off Jakpa Road, was crushed by the bulldozers of the special sanitation committee.

The Proprietress of God’s Favour School, Mrs Oyobor Oche, said she had no prior notice that her school had violated any rule, noting: “The school is about 20 feet from the road.”

She expressed suspicion about the exercise, saying it happened at an odd hour and called on the state government to investigate the action.

The owner of the property on which the school was located, Paul Obuh, while expressing surprise at the development, described it as a deliberate act of suppression by the vice chairman of the Delta

From Bolaji Ogundele Warri

State Waterways Security Committee, Chief Boro Opudu.

Opudu, however, denied any link with the demolition of the property involved, saying that he had been out of the state for a long time. He also denied a claim that he had an eye on the property.

Obuh, while speaking to Niger Delta Report, alleged that Opudu had approached him in the past to buy the plot, an offer he rejected, adding that his relationship with the politician had since been less than cordial.

Obuah said: “The pale loader was already out of this place when I came, it was in the next place, I went there and saw Boro because the information we got was that it was Boro who brought them because of this my land, claim

ing that there is a church here making noise to disturb him.

“Before then though he had approached me to sell the plot to him, which I refused, when he was building he said the back of his building was too tight so he needed me to sell part of my land to him, but I said no that I didn’t want to sell, but I gave him three feet by hundred and only told him to pull down the fence at the back there for me. People were telling me to collect money, but I said no that at least he’s going to be my neighbour.

After some time he started approaching me to sell “I believe he has an avenue now to raid the place and that is why he did this because if you check the whole Warri, I don’t think there’s a place they destroy like this; destroy hundred by hundred with the whole property, the blocks, the

granite. After the caravan, he still went inside into the school, packed everything together and smashed them. You can see for yourself that this is a deliberate act”, Obuh said.

Opudu said: “ Am I the government that is doing the work? What concerns me with this; why will I want to buy plot of land there again, for what? Even where I am now I am thinking of leaving. I am building house at home. I’m from Ogbe-Ijoh. What am I going to do with his plot of land?

Destroy to do what? So, he’s pointing finger at me that I was the one who destroyed the place?”

Niger Delta Report learnt that the matter had been reported to the committee. Mr Linus Chima, a member of the committee and Press Secretary to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, said the matter would be investigated.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

36

NIGER DELTA REPORT COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

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N the beginning was the Niger Delta, a vast area mainly creeks and swamps. It looked like it had no form. Life was just a simple one for the inhabitants of the creeks and the swamps. They loved fishing. They loved farming on the few upland areas they had. Their worries were not much.

It was not lost on the powers-that-were that the area was not like every other. It was peculiar and special and needed special attention.

Things really looked like they were going to change for good when oil was struck in commercial quantities. It was envisaged that in some years to come, Niger Delta was going to be the place everyone wanted to be. But the optimism did not take much before it died.

One of the ways the Federal Government tried to give special attention to the area was to establish the Oil Mineral Producing Area Development Commission (OMPADEC). But OMPADEC achieved next to nothing. It was replaced years later with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). One of the first things the NDDC thought of was a Masterplan for the region. That was done about a decade ago.

A decade, for me, is a long time for change to take place. In ten years, a new city can spring up. In ten years, a small company can become a conglomerate. In ten years, a toddler can become a teenager. In ten years, a lot can really happen.

But when after about ten years, progress seems to have stalled, especially when things have not been done according to the plan, then one is justified to ask: what is the essence of planning?

The Niger Delta Masterplan is a document that is as old as the NDDC, the agency which worked with other stakeholders in the region to design this plan whose dream was to turn the creeks around by 2020.

Work on the masterplan was started in 2001 soon after the NDDC was established. It was ready about a decade ago. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in his preface to the Masterplan, was so optimistic that with the plan, the Niger Delta would get its groove.

But the NDDC, which is supposed to drive the development of the area, has been bogged down by internal and external factors.

The commission, based on facts from an insider, owes its contractors over N1trillion on existing contracts. Last year, only about N51billion was released to the commission against a budget of over N300billion for both capital and recurrent expenditures.

In the commission, contracts, we are told, were awarded with no design and no specific location but with the sole purpose of collecting advance payments.

There have been instances where one contract is awarded to two or three contractors. Many were just interested in

OLUKOREDE YISHAU

ABOVE WHISPERS

•A weekly intervention on Southsouth people

olukoredeyishau@gmail.com

There is God ooo! ‘

From the Federal Government to state governments, local governments, the oil companies and the NDDC, all have sinned against the Niger Delta people and have come short of their glory. In all that we do, we should always remember that there is somebody up there watching us. There is God. Yes, there is God •Henshaw

taking money meant for a road, hospital or other projects and did not care to do the job.

There are allegations that members of staff of the NDDC may be colluding with outsiders to institute legal actions against the commission and later come and push for outof-court settlement, after which they share the settlement money from NDDC. The commission has over 400 court cases pending.

The commission is not in want of extremely

LAST WORD

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

‘

The PIB does not offer any solution to the problem of gas flaring. It is the same old story. It will allow the scam to persist at the pleasure of whoever is the responsible minister. That is the sad truth. The Gas Flaring bill passed by the previous Senate had more teeth than the provisions of the pending PIB... Nothing could be more lax. The oil companies must be laughing at us __

‘

Activist Nnimmo Bassey

‘

shocking stuffs. Like an insider said, if the NDDC were a private sector firm, it would be regarded as insolvent because it can no longer meet its obligations.

A presidential report on the commission showed that it also got into projects with nothing to do with its mandate as an interventionist agency. What on earth was NDDC doing renovating Port Harcourt Club and commissioning a study on the generation

of electric power from gully erosion sites?

There were also a lot of in-fightings. There was no synergy between the previous board and the management.

Well, before anyone, especially in the NDDC's Corporate Affairs unit asks for my head, let me reveal the source of the bulk of the information I just shared. He is no other than the Chairman of your Governing Board, Senator Bassey Ewa-Henshaw. He revealed all these at a management retreat in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

It was a session where he let out some home truths and declared: "It can no longer be business as usual. Substantial and immediate changes for the better must take place. We must root out impunity from NDDC." Like the Managing Director of NDDC, Bassey Dan-Abia, admitted during the retreat, the people of the Niger Delta have not received the value they expect from the commission.

The quality of some of the infrastructure projects, he admitted, fall below acceptable standards and this had made the people of the region to differentiate NDDC projects from other well delivered projects.

The commission is seen as a 'contract cow', whose award letters are being hawked in the major cities of the country, Dan-Abia said.

I must point out that the blame for the nonrealisation of the dream of the Masterplan about a decade after is not just NDDC's. Other stakeholders, such as the Federal Government, Southsouth state governments, Southsouth local government areas and the oil giants, have not done their parts as envisaged in the Masterplan. The Federal Government, for instance, has not released all cash due to the commission. Several trillions statutorilly due the commission are held by the Federal Government, the state governments, the local governments and the oil giants. So, the commission has far less than it needs and to make matters worse, people still steal the inadequate cash using all kinds of tactics. For them, the fear of God means nothing. They behave as though there is no God. And in this era when Dame Patience Jonathan has reminded us all of God's existence, we need to remind those stealing from NDDC and the Niger Delta people that there is God ooo!

My final take: From the Federal Government to state governments, local governments, the oil companies and the NDDC, all have sinned against the Niger Delta people and have come short of their glory. In all that we do, we should always remember that there is somebody up there watching us. There is God o. Yes, there is God and we should be guided by that fact before denying people of their dues.

•Last Word is Niger Delta Report’s verdict on Southsouth affairs

A comrade governor’s tough decisions

F

ROM the countenances of teachers in public schools in Edo State during the May Day celebration, it was clear that the lingering impasse between them and the state government over the issue of assessment test was far from over. The teachers walked out of the stadium when Governor Adams Oshiomhole was still making his speech and it became clear that the governor would not back out of the issue.

Oshiomhole has vowed to put his political fortunes as well that of the ruling All Progressive Congress at stake over the assessment test issue. He is a 'one man standing' on the assessment test issue as many of his political associates as well as members of APC are afraid that it might affect next year's general elections and the 2016 governorship elections.

Only 97 teachers presented themselves for the assessment while others stayed away on the orders of their union leaders that the National Industrial Court has barred the state government from conducting the test.

The assessment test is one among many tough decisions Oshiomhole has had to make that was not initially supported by his party leaders and people of the state.

In June last year, Oshiomhole surprised those he loved and has promised not to hurt even if other states rejected them-the commercial bike riders popularly called Okada. Oshiomhole gave them six days to stop operation in three metropolitan local government areas in the state and some parts of Ovia North East and Uhunmwode local government areas.

It was an announcement that jolted the okada riders and many thought it was a joke but when they heard the governor in a repeated live broadcast threatening to confiscate and destroy any motorcycle seen in the affected areas, they knew the game was up and were compelled to obey.

Oshiomhole took the painful decision due to security report of an imminent attack in the state following the influx of suspected Boko Haram members. However, not many, including former okada riders, would wish a return of the use of motorcycles within the city.

The roads are now free. Statistics showed that intra-city accident victims have reduced and many former okada riders now own cars. The crime rate has also reduced.

He was also stubborn on the issue of the Internally Generated Revenue which was

less than N300m then. Oshiomhole decided to introduce the progressive tax system as well as increase the registration fee for private schools, private health centres and ensure that establishments remitted the Pay as You Earn tax deducted from their staff salaries. Other taxes recently introduced are the Consumption Tax and the Land Use Charge also known as Property Tax. Many rich businessmen, who hitherto were not paying tax or paid less, are now made to pay full taxes. Both federal, privately owned and state owned organisations, including institutions have been sealed up for failing to remit PAYE and the state IGR is now at an average of N1.5bn.

The Urban renewal project was another tough decision, which pitched Oshiomhole against many rich and powerful individuals in the state.

Now, many residents have forgotten what Airport Road, Siluko Road, New Lagos Road and Oba Market Road looked like before the transformation.

The big question is: will Oshiomhole laugh last as he has always done on the Edo teachers' issue? We believe teachers’ ability to impart knowledge must be determined.

And if an assessment test will show that, so be it.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

37

SHOPPING

Unilever introduces skin care products U

NILEVER Nigeria Plc has launched two products described as unique innovations for the black skinned and fair skinned- Vaseline Total Moisture and Vaseline Cocoa Glow. The products come in Lotions and Creams.

The Marketing Director, Personal Care, Unilever Nigeria Plc, David Okeme while presenting the products said the products were launched with the Nigerian woman at the centre.

“Our aim is to get Nigerian women to fall in love with Vaseline lotions because Vaseline lotions and creams have Stratys-3, which ensures all three layers of the skin are moisturized to give soft, smooth skin all day long.

We believe that truly healthy skin starts with deep healing, it is not something you get by masking problems or through quick fixes”.

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

Category Manager Deodorant and Skin Care, Unilever Nigeria Plc, James Inglesby said Vaseline Total Moisture and Vaseline Cocoa Glow are a combination of vitamins, minerals and conditioning moisturizers. “While Vaseline Total Moisture works like a moisture multivitamin to replenish your skin with 100 per cent of the daily hydration and nutrient your skin needs, Vaseline Cocoa Glow on the other hand penetrates deeply to ignite the skin’s natural glow from the inside out.

Made with a combination of moisturisers and pure Vitamin E, Vaseline Cocoa Glow smoothens away all the roughness and dark spots to help the skin maintain an

•From left: Inglesby, Emelideme, Okeme, at the launch.

even tone and a healthy glow. “This is great news for everyone who desires beautiful skin. Lotions are fast

absorbing and light feeling on the skin while creams are thicker and used for deep moisturizing espe-

cially when your skin requires higher levels of moisturizing,” Inglesby added.

Jumia wins award, supports Nigerian fashion

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HE ‘E-commerce Website of the Year’ award went to Jumia at the Beacon of ICT awards organised by Nigeria Communications Week media. Jumia took home the award for the biggest and best e-commerce website in Nigeria. The online shopping mall won the award based on its efforts in helping to grow the e-commerce market in Nigeria since its launch. The firm beat other online platforms like Konga and OLX to clinch the award. The award was presented to the trio of Co-CEO Jumia Nigeria, Nicola Martin; Head of Marketing Jumia Nigeria, Jonathan Doerr; and Public Relations Manager, Olamide Amosu.

“We are excited that our efforts are continuing to pay off with the acceptance of our brand and retail ecommerce in Nigeria. The only way to stay number one is by satisfying customers and expanding our reach.

We would like to thank all our customers and all those who believe in us. Hopefully next year we will take home this same award and more,” Mr. Martin said.

Speaking on the award, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, Deputy Editor-inChief, Nigeria Communications Week newspaper, said “the online retailer has endeared itself to Nigerian’s, hence it has become a household name.” He noted that Jumia maintained a leading position during the keenly contested voting period. He praised the ingenuity of the online retailer, especially in the promotion of e-commerce and e-payment in the country, while recruiting many young Nigerians to drive the site.

The award brought together different players in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The e-commerce space in Nigeria has grown with a lot of players Perhaps, in appreciation of the award, Jumia has decided to promote Nigerian fashion by partnering

•From left: Doerr, Martin and Onwuegbuchi at the presentation

By Tonia ‘Diyan

African Fashion Week to announce the best emerging Nigerian designer. With over 20,000 fashion items in its store, the online retailer recently expanded its reach, promoting more Nigerian fashion.

Jumia, according to its owners, is said to be the one-stop-shop for fashion in Nigeria, which gives as much visibility as possible to Nigerian designers to showcase their products online and reach their target audience all over the country and beyond. With this latest partnership with African Fashion Week,

Jumia Nigeria allows both parties to engage more fashion followers across the continent and discover new talents in the industry.

Prior to the launch in Nigeria, African Fashion Week has already planned successful events in the UK and other European countries. This year’s edition is powered by Jumia Nigeria and will be hosting some of the upcoming fashion designers in the country and they will be showcasing their collections. Some of the designers are House of Marie, Jedidah, Long Feet Boutique and many more.

These designers are empowered by

This week at Mushin market

S

TAPLE foods like; rice, beans and garri are demanded more. Topping the rice category is royal umbrella. For Beans category, honey beans takes the lead and white garri is sold more.

Pharmacist in the market are selling more of cough syrup like Coflin, Ensolin and pain relief like Paracetamol, Panadol, Tetracycline, .

The Beverage category has Bournvita, Milo and Peak Milk topping demand in the market The frozen food category has tur-

By Oluwakemisola Iroju

key selling faster than its chicken, beefs and fish counterpart.

Andre wine and Red label are highly demanded compared to Berleys, Baron, MC Dowells and Campari. Also in high demand is Mixxed up energy drink.

The electronics seller say they sell more of LG products and Century standing fan . According to them, the small Tiger generator sell more than the big size.

•Mushin market

Jumia with the opening of a proudly Nigerian store called ‘By-Naija’. CoCEO Jumia Nigeria, Jeremy Doutte stated, “We are always proud to promote Nigerian Fashion, and following the success of our ‘By-Naija’ online store, we are looking forward to encouraging more creativity in Nigeria with the upcoming African Fashion Week partnership in Nigeria’ The designers were hosted to a one-day workshop where Jumia educating them on entrepreneurship and how to reach their target audience with online retailers as a sales/ marketing option for their brand.

In her words, founder of African Fashion Week Nigeria, Ronke Ademiluyi said, ‘We are really excited to have Jumia as a sponsor/ partner of AFWN, and we believe that it is the perfect platform that will act as a retail network and distribution channel for our designers, a platform that will assist in making designers labels readily available to consumers.

Ticket sales for the upcoming African Fashion Week Nigeria will be available on Jumia.com.ng with delivery options all over Nigeria.

Fashion fans can also win free tickets to the fashion week by participating in the conversation on Jumia’s facebook and twitter during the period before the event. To round up the Fashion Week, Jumia will be announcing the next biggest fashion brands to emerge out of Nigeria.

Also, Jumia’s Mid-month Madness Sales, great deals and amazing experiences are available this month, according to the firm’s Public Relations Manager, Olamide Amosu. The theme for the Mid-month deal is ‘Shop Till You Drop’. It ensures that shoppers get great deals as they compete to become the fastest while clicking those buttons.

With thousands of products on Jumia website, the Mid-month offer will be highlighting deals from various categories that offer the cheapest. Managing Director of Marketing at Jumia Nigeria, Jonathan Doerr stated: “This is an opportunity for every customer to scout for their wish list with the jumia Mid-month Madness.”

He added that shoppers can be sure of getting discount on 100s of products at this time on Jumia. Jonathan said: “You can expect to get your deals on favourite clothing brands, 80 per cent off home appliance or even 90 per cent off gadgets all at an unbelievable price, only when you shop from the Jumia Mid-month Madness store here,” he said.

38

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS

AGRICBUSINESS

e-mail: agrobusiness@thenationonlineng.net

People may eat but still suffer from malnutrition because of inadequate vital nutrients. The way to combat this is to cultivate crops with nutrients.

As a result, plant breeders and nutritional scientists are boosting micronutrients in food crops to enrich diets and reduce malnutrition. Experts say improving yields as well as the nutrients is a cost-effective method to address the nation’s nutrition needs. DANIEL ESSIET reports.

Boosting yields with bio-fortified crops

J

OY Nwankpa (not real name) is part of a select group of farmers producing bio-fortified crops on a commercial scale in Abia State. She owns two hectares of farm land where she grows cassava, maize and vegetables.

Long ago, she realised that growing food would be more profitable and have a greater impact on the community. But there was a challenge. Many kids in the area suffered from Kwashiorkor, a type of malnutrition caused by lack of protein. This propelled her to shift focus to planting fortified crops to fight hidden hunger — a chronic lack of vitamins and minerals.

Along the line, she was contacted by an international non-governmental organisation (NGO), HarvestPlus. The group is considered a leader in the global effort to improve nutrition and public health by developing crops and distributing seeds of staple foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. HarvestPlus provided her with seeds, packaging, outlets for distribution and know-how. Now she grows biofortifiedcrops on her land. The result is bountiful. She now talks in terms of tonnes and not kilos.

There are many like her now planning to expand their farms because of the plentiful harvest recorded from planting bio-fortified crops.

Nationwide, the challenge of feeding the populace with nutritious food is pushing the industry to search for new solutions. As a result, crop breeders are developing new varieties of staple food crops, each with high levels of essential micronutrients and potential for rewarding farmers who grow them with higher yields.

Their new approach is called bio-fortification. The goal is to bring healthier diets to people who rely on food staples for most of the calories they consume. Staples that have been fortified include bean, sweet potato, cassava, maize, pearl millet, rice, and wheat, that people rely upon for sustenance globally.

Generally, bio fortification increase nutrition and yields simultaneously. The crops are “biofortified” by loading higher levels of minerals and vitamins in their seeds and roots during growth. Through biofortification, scientists provide farmers with crop varieties that provide essential micronutrients and can naturally reduce anemia, cognitive impairment, and other malnutritionrelated health problems that affect billions of people.

One example that farmers are going for is the high quality protein cassava.

In recent years, several varieties of cassava have been developed, which contain higher levels of protein than normal maize.

At International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, a team of national and international crop breeders, coordinated by the HarvestPlus programme, have developed varieties of cassava with high levels of Vitamin A, using con-

ventional crop breeding techniques (not genetic modification).

The yellow fleshed cassava tubers, reportedly has contributed to a reduction in Vitamin A deficiency, a cause of poor health in as much as a third of the nation’s rural children. Three high yielding, Vitamin A-rich varieties have been released and there is an ongoing multiplication programme to make them widely available. Nigeria has joined countries growing biofortified crops.

In fact, stakeholders are looking at the option of administering nutrition through crops, especially when many children are suffering from malnutrition and under-nourishment.

Micronutrients are the minerals and vitamins needed in only small amounts to maintain a healthy diet. As malnutrition rises, HarvestPlus scientists have identified iron, zinc, and vitamin A as three key micronutrients that are often deficient.

Country Manager for HarvestPlus, Nigeria, Paul Ilona, explained that vitamin A deficiency is among the leading causes of preventable blindness in children, with more than four million preschool aged children having visible eye damage due to vitamin A deficiency; and that close to 20 million pregnant women. Though there are other strategies to combat the scourge of vitamin A deficiency, such as food fortification, dietary diversity, and consumption of supplements (drugs), Ilona said that bio-fortification offers a better option when viewed in the context of sustainability and cost.

While ordinary food fortification refers to addition of supplements to food during processing to make it more nutritious, Ilona explained that bio-fortification involves the development of crops that produce micronutrients while they are growing.

He explained that the adoption and consumption of vitamin A cassava is an effective strategy to reduce malnutrition, especially in the rural area HarvestPlus, working hand-in-hand with international centres, as well as national programmes, have developed new, high yielding Vitamin A rich varieties of cassava.

“Today, we have three varieties which are in the release process.

And so the strategy is very clear.

Put the vitamin in the food that the people consume normally, and by so doing, we hope that access to Vitamin A would have been significantly enhanced.”

Unlike the continual financial outlays required for supplementation and fortification programmes, a one-time investment in breedingbased solutions can yield

VP, Brand Building Unilever Nig Plc

•Vitamin A cassava

•Ilona

•Olowe

•Egesi

biofortified crops for farmers to grow for years to come. It is this multiplier aspect of bio-fortification across time and distance that makes it so cost-effective in reducing malnutrition.

Generally, Ilona explained that micronutrient deficiency in plants greatly hightens their susceptibility to diseases, especially root diseases of the major food crops, while micronutrient-dense seeds are associated with greater seedling vigor, which in turn is associated with higher plant yield.

With increasing campaign for fortified crops, experts believe, Nigeria is venturing into a new agricultural era to boost its food production and enhance the nutrition level of the crops grown across the country. To its advantage, the market for such crops is growing with a large per cent of the population suffering from malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency. Hence bio-fortified foods are seen as a solution to reducing “hidden hunger” — a chronic lack of vitamins and minerals.

Experts have found for instance, that bio-fortified beans have high nutritional levels and provide up to 45 per cent of daily iron needs,

which is 14 per cent more than commonly-grown bean varieties. They also have an extra advantage as they have proved to produce high yields, resistance to viruses, and are heat and drought tolerant.

Thus, lots of farmers are patronising fortified crops. One of such groups is the Farmers Development Union (FADU) in Ibadan.

The group is in support of the national campaign to get farmers to use bio-fortification to increase the nutritional value of harvests.

The Programme Coordinator, Mr. Victor Olowe, said crops fortification is an important strategy to fight malnutrition.

This is because farmers have found that such varieties produce higher yields and nutrients to levels that would prevent malnutrition.

FADU also found an ally in the Director, Africa Region, Cassava Adding Value to Africa, Dr. Kola Adebayo. Adebayo said fortified crops could significantly improve nutrition for people who consume these foods daily.

He explained that using breeding to developed three new yellow varieties of cassava, is helping fight against malnutrition caused by vi-

tamin A deficiency.

Deputy Director, National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Abia State, Dr Chiedozie Egesi, said the problem of malnutrition was caused by dependence on crops that cannot provide all the nutrients and health promoting factors required for normal human life.

According to him, the burden of micronutrient deficiency is increased susceptibility to common diseases, poor immune systems, stunting, wasting, permanent physical impairment, and limited cognitive development.

The most vulnerable are children under five and reproductive women.

He said there was a need to increase agricultural production, by increasing productivity using modern inputs, lower production costs and, add value to the harvest.

By increasing agricultural productivity, he said the government would be able to reduce hunger and malnutrition.

The prospect of biofortification, he noted, provides the nation with ample opportunities to alleviate food and nutrition insecurity, as well as create new jobs for a new crop of researchers.

The benefits, he added, accrue to farmers and processors.

Egesi said consumption of biofortified foods will help in raising a young healthy population with a cognitive skills and development that can compete in a world driven by science and technology.

‘Through biofortification, scientists provide farmers with crop varieties that provide essential micro-nutrients and can naturally reduce anemia, cognitive impairment, and other malnutritionrelated health problems that affect billions of people’

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

39

AGRICBUSINESS

Society chief seeks improvement of street foods

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HERE is a need to improve street food consumed by lowincome groups, a former President, Federation of African Nutrition Society, Prof. Tola Atinmo, has said.

He said informal food vending is illegal and unlicensed vendors are excluded from government support, and chased away from vending sites, adding that apart from being popular, food from this source is affordable.

Despite its advantages, he noted that street food vending is a major cause of health hazards, such as food borne diseases. The main contributing factors, according to him, are the poor environments and practices.

While the informal food trade is fast emerging as a means of livelihood and source of inexpensive food to many poor households,the don maintained that there is need for supportive policies and interventions

Stories by Daniel Essiet

that link food safety improvements with efforts to alleviate poverty among small-scale enterprises and street food vendors.

He stressed that it was important that the government assists and supports the informal sector to the benefit of the nation.

This, he proffered, should take the form of initiatives designed to train street food vendors in food safety and quality.

The street food vendors, according to him, should be registered before they are allowed to start their business. The aim is to ensure that vendor is healthy and operates in a suitable environment.

With economic decline, rapid urbanisation, high unemployment resulting in a dramatic increase in such activities, Atinmo highlighted the

importance of monitoring of microbiological parameters from vending sites as high rainfall could increase the risk of transmission of disease through contaminated water and generally poor sanitation.

In addition, he said water used by vendors have bacteria and their utensils unclean.

He advised that health officials should move to identifyproblems at vending sites, and proffer solutions.

He said vendors and consumers would benefit from well-coordinated system. The system, he added, should be designed to ensure food safety and quality through the involvement and participation of key players.

According to him, health inspectors should be trained to ensure uniform application of procedures and more thorough assessment during inspections. In addition, he said, health inspectors should be equipped with the

tools necessary for on site tests and measurements.

While street food vendors should be trained on hygiene, food laws and financial matters, awareness campaigns should be carried out through the radio, television, among others.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), street food is a source of livelihood for people who would otherwise be unable to establish a business for inadequate capital.

In the early 1990s in Cotonu, it was estimated that the early turnover of the street food trade was about $ 20 million.

It is estimated that over 70 per cent of the approximate 1.5 billion episodes of diarrhoea that occur in the world yearly are caused by biological or chemical contamination of foods. Overall, the organisation said consumer spending on street foods represents a large proportion of the household budget.

In Abidjan, 20 per cent of meals are

taken outside of the home and most of these are purchased from street vendors. In Ghana, reports indicate that almost 40 per cent of the total food budget goes to purchasing street foods in the lowest expenditure quintile, and two per cent in highincome households.

Despite the implications of street foods to food security and local economies, WHO said several outbreaks of foodborne diseases have been traced to consumption of contaminated street foods.

According to it, many food borne diseases andpathogenic microorganisms are spread by contaminated hands.

Food stalls often lack the necessary storage, refrigeration and cooking facilities to prevent contamination by bacteria. Limited access toclean water and waste disposal increases the risk of contamination being passed on to customers.

‘Agric neglect cause of economic woes’

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• From left: Country Manager, Cassava Adding Value for Africa(CAVA) Nigeria, Prof Lateef Sanni; Country Manager, CAVA Ghana, Nanam Dziedzoave and Country Manager, CAVA Malawi, Vito Sandifolo, at a workshop on cassava in Lagos.

How Nigeria can gain from exports, says NCAN chief T HE food processing industry has much to gain from the export market, the President, National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN),Tola Faseru, has said.

He said an international market is important because the products can be sold abroad.

Faseru said supermarkets, agents and logistics firms are getting the gains that should accrue to producers.

He suggested that producers should examine their marketing channels and remove third-party agents. They should engage foreign retailers and diversify their markets, particularly into Africa, he added.

He said indigenous manufacturers should tackle high subsidies provided by foreign governments.

According to him, the industry is facing challenges, such as competition on the export market, loss of market, and the unstable currency and exchange rate.

Yet, it had enormous potential.

He explained that the agro-processing sector has the potential to become an industrial impetus that can create jobs and answer some of the macroeconomic questions such as the trade deficit generated by too much imports against low export volumes.

He said the government will safeguard, intervene and support the sector where it is necessary to remain competitive and stable.

According to him, attention has to paid to food standards required for compliance with the demands of export markets. In addition, he said the industry must work to develop voluntary standards and then compulsory specifications to protect consumers from low-quality and fraudulent imports.

He called for more funding to encourage enterprises to upgrade their production facilities, processes and products and train workers.

He advised exporters on the need to send produce of high quality and maintain consistency to adapt to changes in the market requirements, such as adjustments in formulations, package sizes and design as dictated by the changing consumer trends.

Varsity, WAAPP target 600,000 fingerlings

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HE Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto (UDUS) and the West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme (WAAPP) are targeting the production of 600,000 fast-growing fingerlings to encourage aquaculture among local farmers in Sokoto State.

Speaking while receiving a WAAPP monitoring team in his office, UDUS’ Vice Chancellor,Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Vice-Chancellor, Prof.

Shehu Arabu Riskuwa, said the WAAPP’s project would make it possible for the varsity to increase fingerlings’ breeding from 250,000 to about 600,000 yearly.

He lauded the programme, adding that the university values its input.

The support, he observed, would pave the way for the university to support rural farmers in the state.

The vice chancellor assured that he would set in motion mechanisms that would ensure that WAAPP-assisted projects in the university become selfsustaining.

The university, he added, sees the WAAPP programme as timely and a challenge that will encourage them to showcase the potential of its agriculture project.

He said the university fish pond has been upgraded and that the take-off of the production of organic fertiliser at commercial level by the university, saying that the production will complement WAAPP programmes in some parts of the country.

Taking the monitoring team round to inspect the university fish farm, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Abukakar Dikko, explained that N4 million had spent on

the construction of the basement, circular concrete fish ponds and the roofing of structures at the fish farm.

He also said the procurement of several plastic tanks, among other equipment for the farm.

Dikko, who is also the Coordinator of the WAAPP projects in the university, also explained that efforts were being made by the university to ensure effective technology dissemination.

He listed some of their outreach stations for the technology dissemination to include the community fish farm at Gibarshi in Wamakko Local Government Area, demonstration farms at the Sultan Maccido Institute of Islamic and General Studies, Sokoto, and an elibrary project which will soon be inaugurated.

GUN State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun said the neglect of agriculture was the cause of the economic woes in the country.

Senator Amosun spoke while declaring open the first Southwest AllFarmers Summit at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto in Abeokuta, the state capital.

Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mrs Ibironke Sokefun, Amosun said the neglect has led to an increase in poverty as the sector accounts for less than five per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He added that to arrest the unfortunate situation the government has recognised agriculture as a veritable tool of wealth creation and the industrialisation.

According to him, his government has put in place numerous policies and programmes aimed at restoring the sector to its pride of place as encapsulated in its Mission to Rebuild Ogun State.

For farmers, Amosun said: “In about 36 months of our adminis-

tration, we have continued to implement programmes directed at improving their lots by encouraging them to produce more with the potentials to make more more.”

The programmes, he said, include the provision of N1 billion soft loans to farmers, purchase of numerous land claning equipment that are hired out at subsidised rates, promotion of turkey and fish production on a large scale, the construction of a model farm estate at Owowo which consists of 42 units of modern building situated on a 125hectare of land and the establishment of AGRI-MART. Earlier, the Coordinator of the summit and Ogun State Chairman All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Chief Olusegun Dasaolu, said the event was put together for Southwest states to retrace their steps to the good old days when agriculture was the mainstay of the region, praising the government for taking the lead.

Over 1,000 farmers from the Southwest attended the two-day summit.

‘How rampant use of pesticides affect farmlands’

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ONSTANT use of pesticides could contaminate farmlands and harm plants, animals and human beings, Prof Ayo Ogunlela has warned.

He advocated a vigorous reform of farm practices to combat pesticide toxicity.

Calling for cautious use of pesticides, Ogunlela, who is a Professor Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the University of Ilorin, said chemical sprays on the farmland contaminate the groundwater.

As result, nothing is safe from vegetables, fish, fruit, as they are cultivated under an environment mixed with harmful ingredients and chemicals, he said.

He noted that the industry

T

faces a problem because of worsening soil and water pollution as decline in farmland quality poses a potential threat to the country’s food security.

Experts said one of the reasons for infertility is the presence of pesticides, growth hormones, heavy metals and mycotoxins in foodstuff, noting that that farmers are not properly trained in the use of chemical fertiliser.

In absence of effluent treatment plants (ETP) in industries around farmlands and lack of training of the farmers, the factory wastes, fertiliser and pesticide residues are drained out into the farmlands and ultimately contaminate the farm produce, the experts said.

‘Design cities to support agric’

HE Chairman, Southsouth, Southeast Chamber of Commerce, Dr. HykeOchia, has advocated that the government should design cities that support urban agriculture.

According to him, the government needs to bring into cities, natural systems that sustain urban life.

Ochia said urban farms in places, such as Lagos, Port Harcourt and Kaduna could transform inner city spaces – rooftops, infrastructure, street scapes, building skin – into generative ecologies that support lives and pollinators.

He said such city farms would fed densely populated settlements, while agricultural knowledge and custom—the domestication of seeds will nourish urban culture.

He suggested that the govern-

ment should support the establishment of commercial farms and farms that practice intensive, open air, soil-based cultivation, adding that there should be schools that incorporate student-grown food in their meals.

He said more would be achieved if the network includes commercial apiaries, composters, seed banks, farmers, markets, restaurants, soil doctors and farm design services.

The renewal of urban agriculture, he noted, offers hope for a more positive, regenerative relationship between natural systems and human communities.

He added that integrating agriculture into urbanisation can improve the beauty of buildings, landscapes, infrastructure and cities.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16 2014

43

COMMENTARY

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T has been quite some time since readers’ reactions were published in this column. This is because most readers of this column do not care anymore about grammar and the use of English language.

And since it is easier to write a fresh article than to edit badly written ones, yours sincerely chose to concentrate on the writing of the column.

Nigerians, especially the youths of today, seem to have lost touch completely with the use of language for the purpose of communication as they just write all sorts of garbage while leaving the correction to the columnist.

Ordinarily, the readers should possess the ‘red fingers’ (i.e. they should act as the examiners not in terms of grammar but in terms of facts, ideas and observations while the columnist should be like a student writing an examination). But the irony is that the case is the other way round. If every reaction were to be published as written by most readers the columnist would spend days and nights every week marking the junk submitted to his column in the name of reaction.

This further confirms the extent of intellectual deterioration in Nigeria where communication is no longer a matter of understanding but one of guessing. When intellectualism was genuinely pursued by virtually every well-meaning Nigerian because of its value, writing a column was just a privilege as there were better writers among the readers who had no access to such privilege. The case is different today.

Since this busy columnist has little time for marking most readers’ comments on a weekly basis it becomes necessary to avoid any cumbersome intellectual comment that is capable of compounding his busy schedule. However, there are occasions when looking back briefly may become necessary if only to give the interest of readers a priority. This is one of such occasions. The article entitled ‘Letter to Nigerian Youths’ which was published in this column last Friday attracted so many reactions that it became almost impossible to resist the publication of some of them. Thus, a few correctable ones among those reactions were selected for publication here today. Please, read on: “Dear Mr Abbas, Good Morning! Your above piece which appeared on page 42 of the Friday, May 9 edition of The Nation is timely, cogent and poignant.

I always relish perusing your articles despite the fact that I am not a Moslem (sic). But the salient issues raised in your piece are worrisome and symptomatic of the magnitude of degeneration, loss of focus, lasciviousness and all sorts characterising Nigerian youths these days. Given the penchant of our media for the burlesque, outlandishness and the inanity, I am not surprised that your very salient issue didn’t generate the kind of attention it should have generated.

I am really worried at the state of the nation and the future of this country (i.e when you have youths that have discountenanced the essence of scholarship, tenacity, hard work, progression and decency). Look around you everywhere and all you see is gloom and comatose (sic).

All we see are young musicians and comedians singing and talking gibberish and nonsense, winning fake awards and we are clapping that all is well. No! Nothing is well. The future of Nigeria lies not in these folks! We want youths that can stand up for the nation; youths that can be counted on to move the nation forward; youths that have socio-economic, scientific, intellectual, moral, conscientious, technological and political edge and strides!

This has been the object of my focus for some years now as I have tried to highlight some of these issues to Nigerian youths, but the message is just not sinking. I am highly demoralised when you see youth graduates who can’t read, who don’t even know what is happening anywhere, who can’t analyse simple issues and don’t even have any iota of ideals, ideas and ideology! When majority of youths start to venerate musicians, idolise scammers, revere corruption and celebrate men of questionable characters and opprobrious antecedents, then something is fundamentally and critically wrong.

When majority of our youths readily accept what is morally questionable, socially wrong, economically immoral and politically aberrant (sic), then what hope

FEMI ABBAS ON femabbas756@gmail.com 08115708536

Readers’ reactions is there for the nation? In those days, we used to look up to people like Obafemi Awolowo, Tai Solarin, Sekou Toure, Bala Usman, Balarabe Musa, Julius Nyerere, Adekunle Ajasin, Ayodele Awojobi, Mokwugo Okoye, Nguyen Gyap, Marcus Garvey, Agustino Neto, Patrice Lumumba, Kwame Nkrumah, Thomas Sankara etc as role models. But now its so disturbing and distressing that youths of today view footballers, Hollywood actors and actresses and political fraudsters as role models.

It just reaffirms what a popular Professor of Sociology espoused about 20 years ago that ‘Nigeria is dying gradually, because if youths are really the future of the country, the I am telling you that Nigeria is virtually on life support. Just what is the way out of this impending morass? What is the solution to this abyss or nadir that we have inexplicably found ourselves today? The other day I was speaking to some youths on the essence of hard work and industry and some of these boys were openly deriding and jeering at me! I just shook my head in pity not at them but their future and the future of the nation. I need answers, what can be done? we need something practical, something pragmatic lest we are doomed!

Once again, thank you and God bless”.

Adekunle Theophilius Alhaji Femi Abbas, It is my pleasure to write a few lines here as a reaction to your column of May 9, 2014 entitled ‘Letter to Nigerian Youths’. I hope you will find time to read it. As one of the youths to whom your open letter was addressed, I felt the heat while reading it. My first reaction was that you old people are now turning the heat on us after ruining our lives. But going through the article again and comparing it to what my father had told me some years back, I totally agree with your analysis about today’s youths. All that you wrote about us are very correct and I respect your sense of presenting the article particularly your conclusion in which you alluded to the fact that your own children too are today’s youths.

What baffles me most about today’s youths in Nigeria is their imitation attitude which reflects no sense of reasoning at all. Can you imagine our boys plaiting their hairs and wearing ear rings shamelessly like lunatics just because some criminal prisoners are doing same in Europe and America? Can you imagine the wearing of trouser jeans by our youthful girls of today who virtually leave their breasts and buttocks bare all in the name of civilisation? Even the music they play and their driving pattern speak volume about their character. Can you imagine the extent of desperation and eagerness to be rich by today’s youths which is pushing them to all criminal acts?

The truth is that most of us (today’s youths) have completely deviated from the norms which once constituted the values dearly cherished by our parents. The wind of capitalism seems to have so much overwhelmed us that we can hardly believe that we have parents whose lifestyles are completely different from ours. And unfortunately, we do not care to ask why this is so.

On the other hand, however, the elders will still share a major part of the blame.

They are responsible for formulation of policies and their implementation; they are responsible for enactment of laws and their execution. They are also responsi-

ble for beaching those laws with impunity in the very presence of their children. They paved the way for corruption through manipulation of figures and through election rigging. They openly called white black and abuse justice on the platter of ethnicity and nepotism. They introduced hooliganism into local politics and openly aided and abetted corruption in all shades. Yet they do not their children to be like them.

Sir, I have been privileged to travel to many countries. But I have never seen a country where leaders trample on the law of the land like Nigeria. And this is shamelessly done with impunity. Have you ever seen a Nigerian resigning from a public office no matter the gravity of his/her official crime? Here is a country where innocence is heavily punished while criminality is officially extolled. Examples of ministers, legislators, judges and chief executives of banks and other private companies abound who are pushed out of office not by their employers but by the press.

Even most of the so-called religious leaders who are loudest in preaching against corruption are the biggest beneficiaries of the massive corruption in the land. That is why the possession of executive jets has now become a matter of competition among them.

Sir, the youths are merely used as instruments for perpetrating all these crimes and in the process they end up surpassing their teachers.

Sir, do you know that more than half of the approved budgets in virtually all the federal ministries are shared among the civil servants and their ministers? Do you know that even some messengers and gatemen in those ministries own many houses and cars in Abuja today? How much salary do they earn? Sir, Nigeria is doomed more at the instance of the so-called leaders rather than the followers and the only seeming panacea is REVOLUTION. That is what whipped Ghana into the line of sanity. There can be no alternative in the case of Nigeria. Alhaji Abbas, you always sound factual in your writings. I hope you will have the courage to publish this ‘bleeding’ reaction of mine? God save Nigeria.

Isaac Bello-Osagie, Gwagwalada.

Thank you, Dr. Femi Abbas, for providing us with a new spectacle to see our youths more vividly. The problem is multidimensional. Parents do not know their children any longer because of the pursuit of money.

They believe that with money those children are already being taken care of. By the time they realise how wild the children have grown it would have become too late to rectify. I sincerely believe that the plight of today’s youth was wrought by the parents who once gullibly fed their children with cow milk instead of human milk from mothers’ breasts. When those children grew up with the character of cows it became a problem.

Look at today’s youth very closely and you will discover that the reasoning faculty is conspicuously missing in them. With the exception of human features in them they are virtually cows that only pursue food and water. As a mother, I know what a child should be, given the right situation.

Today’s youths had been deprived the milk of kindness at infancy. They cannot be expected to be kind either to their parents or anyone else. And when a child is deprived of the milk of kindness he is automatically deprived of shame. That is why our male youths dress like females and the females dress like male. Unfortunately the blood of animal can only produce animals. There-

fore, for some generations to come we can only have animals in the frames of humans. The die is already cast.

Another angle to it is the reckless freedom of allowing foreign films to influence the lives of our children. More than 90% of the crimes committed by Nigerian youths are copied from foreign films. And our local artist have started copying those films without thinking of the implications on our youths. The arrival of the unregulated internet has now worsened the situation. We cannot endorse absolute freedom for our children and expect discipline from the same children. The rot is from the very top. When the home leaks the society must bleed. That is the case with Nigeria today.

In my opinion, some major areas of our public life must be refocused.

These are the civil service, the police, the political class the business class and the theatre artists. Unless these areas of our society are properly addressed discipline wise, Nigeria will remain a rotten society with inescapable calamity. If you notice very well, you will discover that those we call rulers like president and governors are mere captives in the hands of certain hidden hawks who actually wield the power on their behalves. Look at the socalled First Ladies.

Look at the professional politicians. Look at the security agencies. When you remove the menaces of all these from the governance of the country you will discover that sanity will prevail.

Our youths are watching all these on a daily basis and they are aspiring to share in the illegal largess. If today’s youths are used to measure tomorrow’s leadership the conclusion will surely be that there is no tomorrow for Nigeria. The quality of today’s leadership (i. e. that of work and eat) does not provide for Nigeria’s tomorrow.

Most of today’s so-called leaders are only occupying positions for which they were never trained. How can they train others?

We are in danger. With this kind of situation who will now put things in proper perspective? That is the big question waiting for a big answer. Once again, thank you very much my brother. I have been reading your column for quite some time.

I admire your style and consistency though I am not a Muslim. Your contribution to Nigerian progress through your column is not mean. Please keep it up. Posterity will vindicate the righteous ones. God bless you.

Mrs. H. A. B. Dangana, Bida Hello Mr. Abbas! I do not miss your weekly column (The Message) because of its unique quality. There is always something new to learn from it. And your language competently carries the weight of your thoughts. It is only through your column that I became a strong Muslim that I am today. Most of the well researched issues you discuss in your column are never addressed in Friday sermons in our Mosques. Your vast knowledge of the West, the East and global current affairs has enriched my understanding of Islam tremendously. It has also confirmed that Islam is truly a complete way of life rather than a mere dogmatic religion. Please, train some younger ones who will continue the good work and do not relent in your efforts. God bless you.

The case of today’s Nigerian youths is like that of a plant. You can only reap the fruit of any seed you plant and not your wish. No nation wants to degenerate but the factors of degeneration always dictate the extent of a nation’s retrogression.

Any nation that deifies money is surely on the road to perdition. That is the plight of Nigeria where the emphasis is overwhelmingly on money. Everything including mere greetings is tied to money. The role of politicians in this does not help the matter. They publicly give the impression that money and only money is the issue in the country.

This has forced the youths to become desperate especially when there are no available jobs for most of them. It is rather pathetic that we expect our youth to be cultured when those who are supposed to be their role models are uncultured. By not serving as good examples for the youths we are ruining the future of our country. These youths are already wild.

They need to be tamed. But the instruments with which to tame them are not there. All of us and not government alone must do something urgently. Otherwise, we are doomed as a nation. Thank you.

Sefinat B. Owoseni (Mrs.), Sango Otta.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

SOCIETY

‘To God be the glory’ The daughter of former Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Mr Akintayo Ogungbemile, Omolara has wedded Olugbenga, the son of the late Senator Olawole Julius Adewunmi, at the St. Paul’s African Church in Ilupeju, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

•The couple, Olugbenga and Omolara flanked by Mr Ogungbemile and wife Ronke (right) and Chief Sanusi and wife Abigail, who stood in for the groom’s parents

•From left: Prof Adelabu; Prof Williams and Chief Olanipekun

•Mrs Adeola Yesufu (left) and Mrs Folake Lapite

•Adetutu Awobiyi (left) amd Yemisi Ogunleye

•From left: Mrs Adebola Laniyan; Dr Titi Adekoje and Mr Dapo Adekoje

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T all seemed like a session to praise The Most High. The guests were all decked out in colourful dresses, their faces glowing with smiles. The processional hymn, in fact, “To God be the glory”. But, it was not just a praise session; it was a wedding.

The St. Paul’s African Church, Ilupeju, Lagos, was jammed. It was all for Omolara Omosalewa Ogungbemile and Olugbenga Adegboyega Adewunmi.

Omolara is the daughter of former Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Mr Akintayo Ogungbemile.

Olugbenga’s father is the late Senator Olawole Julius Adewunmi.

The bride was ushered into the church with her father, who led her to the altar where her would-be husband was waiting. The processional hymn was “To God be the glory.”

The service was anchored by the Vicar of the church, Ven Akinremi Oyekunle, who was assisted by some other priests.

The couple was joined as man and wife by the Lord Bishop, Lagos Central Diocese of the African Church, the Rt. Rev Julius Abbe. He prayed for them to have a blissful marital life.

The Bishop, Enugu Diocese of the African Church, Revd. Deji Sogbamu, in his sermon, urged the couple to hold firm the rope of God, saying it is the key to a successful marriage.

He said: “You must support yourselves at home, both financially, emotionally, psychologically and physically. You must also create time for yourselves and, above all, you must show love to yourselves.”

After the sermon, the signing of the marriage register followed. As this was going on, the church choir gave a rendition.

The women league of the church presented a gift to the couple, praying for a successful marriage.

The recessional hymn “Great is thy faithfulness” was taken as the couple made their exit.

Friends, relatives and associates posed for pictures outside the church with the couple.

The bridal train moved to Landmark Event Centre, Water Corporation, Victoria Island, Lagos, for the reception.

The hall was awesome. The fittings were neatly done; ash and white satin

•Chief Theophilius Ige (right) Dr Adelaja Omofade

were used for decorations.

Welcoming guests with melodious songs into the hall was the highlife band led by Shuga. The band kept the hall lively as guests relished choice food and drinks.

The ceremony, which was chaired by the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), started on a prayer note.

Chief Olanipekun thanked God and the families for the success of the day. He said he was delighted to be part of the success story. He enjoined the couple to trust each other, saying it is the only principle for them to live a successful life.

“Marriage is an institution built on trust; you must trust yourselves,” he said.

He urged the husband to tolerate the wife, as it is the decree of God. Olanipekun urged the couple’s parents to give them a chance to live their life.

Ekiti State Deputy Governor Prof Modupe Adelabu supervised the cutting of the cake. The cake was cut

after the spelling of LOVE. The toast to the couple was made

by Sir Rotimi Ajibola, who described the couple as loving and quiet. He prayed to God to bless their union.

The throwing of the bouquet followed with spinsters marching out to catch it. It was fun.

Olugbenga thanked God and described the day as his happiest.

The bride’s father advised the couple to continue their relationship on the foundation of love.

“They should continue with the foundation of their relationship which is love, and they should tolerate each other. They must communicate and appreciate one another,” he said.

Former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Chief Joseph Sanusi, who represented the groom’s father, also advised the couple to make love their pillar.

“They should be close to God for God is the foundation of love. If they do this, they will be happy together,” he said, adding: “They should cultivate the habit of giving gifts to each other.”

•Mr Sanjeev Bajaj and his wife, Geetanjali

•Mrs Remi Fayose (left) amd Otunba Olaitan Adebanjo PHOTOS: RAHMAN SANUSI

After this, Mr Femi Aina gave the closing prayer and everyone took to the dance floor.

Guests on the occasion included renowned essayist Prof Adebayo

Williams; former Secretary of Health Prince Julius AdelusiAdeluyi; former Minister of State for Defence, Mrs Dupe Adelaja and many others.

50

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

SOCIETY The Managing Editor, Online, of The Nation, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin,, has celebrated his 50th birthday. The event took place at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) in Ogba, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

COMMUNICATE YOUR IDEAS

Master of Ceremony

S

•Mr Adesina

•Mr Otufodunrin assisted by his wife, Ronke (second right); children - Damilola, Yemisi, Femi and Daniel to cut the cake

•Rev James Akinadewo (left) and Fola Adekeye

•Mr Segun Ayobolu

•Pastor Abiodun Fesede and wife.

PHOTOS: DAYO ADEWUNMI

A passionate journalist at 50

I

MAGINE a huge gathering of journalists - award winning reporters and editors, writers, production experts and a few greenhorns.

Are they set to announce the berth of a new publication?

No. What’s up? Not yet a berth for another daily; it was a celebration of a star journalist.

Rise up for recognition Lekan Otufodunrin, Managing Editor, The Nation online.

The gathering was to tell Otufodunrin that life has just begun at 50.

He turned 50 on May 9.

The Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) hall, venue of the event, was filled to capacity. The celebrator and his wife, Aderonke, sat beside together with other guests on the high table. Their children - Damilola, Yemisi, Femi and Daniel - moved round to ensure that everyone was comfortable.

The birthday get together began with an opening prayer by Deaconess Eyitayo Oshingbesan. It was anchored by Mr Jacklin James, who was the master of ceremony (MC).

There was an exhibition of the celebrator’s works, such as books published, awards won and certificates awarded. Otufodunrin has practised journalism for about 30 years.

The event featured a lecture delivered by the celebrator.

Its theme was: "Reinventing Journalism: A case for conscious media career development". There were discus-

sions, comments and questions and answers session.

The President, Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Mr Femi Adesina, chaired the occasion. He congratulated the celebrator, noting that he is a man who believes in ethical journalism.

Executive Director, Media Support Centre, Mr Wale Fatade spoke on the essence of mentoring in journalism.

A broadcaster with Radio Nigeria, Funke TreasureDurodola urged journalists to present themselves to the society in an appealing manner.

Sunday Editor, Punch newspaper, Toyosi Ogunseye, noted that journalists should move with those who are better than them and look out for opportunities on the job.

In his lecture, Otufodurin reiterated the need for regular training of journalists, saying emphasis is not placed on regular training in most media organisations in the country. "We need more training schools in this country and training of journalists should not be left to non governmental organisations alone," he said.

He urged his colleagues to invest in their career and take personal responsibilities to become better at their profession.

Speaking to The Nation, he enjoined aspiring journalists to "see yourself as professionals, carry yourself with dignity and a sense of purpose so that people will respect you for what you are".

He said he chose to cel-

•Mr Soji Omotunde (left) and Mr Tunji Adegboyega

ebrate the day the way he did because he wanted to use it to inspire other journalists, especially the young ones.

"My greatest joy is that God has spared my life to be 50 and my friends, colleagues and associates have also come to rejoice with me. I see it as a partnership and I’m very grateful.

"Journalism is a substantial part of my life and it is worth celebrating," Otufodurin said Aderonke described her husband as gentle and God fearing.

"He is devoted to his job and there is nothing negative about him. I never regretted marrying him and I pray that God will be with him," she said.

A friend of the celebrator, Mr Jide Orintunsin, The Nation Correspondent in Niger State, described him as a brother. "He is willing to give all he has to add value to others; he is a gift to mankind and he has been a source of blessing to me," he said.

Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State, Mr Deji Elumoye, described Otufodurin as a

“wonderful person, passionate about journalism and a faithful Christian.”

The celebrator's daughter, Yemisi described her father as the best.

"He is my mentor and role model. He is someone you can talk to," she said.

The NIJ fellowship choir rendered a special song to honour the celebrator after which he cut his creamy birthday cake at the random count of one to 50.

After the celebrator's family members and other guests joined him to take photographs.

Otufodunrin has worked in The Punch newspaper and other print media. He has held various positions before becoming the Managing Editor, The Nation Online. He was also the editor of the Sunday paper in The Nation family.

As an intern in 1984, he made the cover page of The Punch newspaper He is also the Executive Director of Media Career Services, a nongovernmental organisation dedicated to media career development training.

INCE we started exploring brief remarks several weeks ago, we have established that they are usually delivered at special occasions. You will also notice that in most events, you either have a single speech or you have a few speeches delivered by different people. In the speech we have today, things are different; we have a single person delivering several speeches within the AMODU LANRE OLAOLU course of an occasion. This “multi(Ph.D) sospeak2lanre@yahoo.com. tasker” is none other than the 07034737394 master of ceremony. @lanreamodu If I were to ask you if you thought a master of ceremony (MC) gave speeches, what would you say? It probably had not crossed your mind before! Indeed the MC gives speeches, even more frequently than any other person at the event because he/she has to keep addressing the guests. To a large extent, the success or failure of any event rests on the MC. Do you know what it means to take responsibility for the smooth flow of an entire event while the organizer is sitting comfortable among the guests? That is the weight of responsibility on the MC. After serving in the capacity of the MC at an event, Joan Detz had this to say, “Being an MC was sort of like having to stand up and juggle a dozen oranges in front of an audience. I just kept standing there, fumbling everything and waiting for the whole thing to be over with.”

If you have ever served as the MC of an event, I’m sure you will share similar sentiments as the one above. As the MC, all eyes are on you for at least 50% of the time, spread throughout the entire programme. You don’t only concentrate on your speech, you also concentrate on every other item on the programme. If the MC fails, the entire event fails. So, to be a successful MC, you must learn to be able to keep your eyes on several things at the same time. One of the uniqueness of the MC is the ability to give short speeches in-between activities on the programme. If, for instance, there are five items on the programme of an event, the MC will appear before the guests at least six times. Here are a few points to help you perform your function as the MC effectively: •Be part of drawing up the programme: This will give you the opportunity of having an input in the way the event will go. If the programme is merely handed to you, some major aspects may be missing or misplaced.

•Confirm who does what: It is very important that you know who the organizer has assigned to perform specific functions. Don’t stop at that, meet each person and discuss his/her role, the placement on the programme and every other detail. I once served as the MC in an event in which one of the persons who was supposed to perform a function was not informed by the host. When I asked the host if the individual had been informed, he said, “Actual, I just thought of him now. Just go ahead and call him up, I’m sure he won’t refuse.” Well, I didn’t do that. I knew he might be embarrassed if he was called without notice so I had to inform him. Have you ever noticed that organizers of events don’t usually think straight during their events?

Their minds are usually filled with too many things for them to focus. Hence, the MC must take responsibility.

•Learn the correct pronunciations of dignitaries’ names and their titles: This is very important because you don’t want to offend your guests instead of entertaining them. As far as introduction of guests is concerned, kindly see our topic of last week; an MC will definitely need the knowledge.

•Remember that you are the first contact: As the MC, you are the first person the guests come in contact with (apart from ushers of course). You get to welcome them on behalf of the organizer or host.

You should be enthusiastic about the event because your mood is contagious. If you are not so excited, your guests won’t be either. You should also be excited to welcome your guests; remember that you are representing the host. If you fail, the aggression will be transferred to the host, so you must be at your best. Your welcome speech must be catchy and warm. Your major aim must be to make your guests feel welcome and it must leave them anticipating the rest of the programme.

•Prepare for the unexpected: Over the years, I have come to discover that programmes hardly ever go as planned. While plans are perfect on paper, the execution is quite another thing. Little things can change carefully planned details. For instance, your guest of honour may arrive late or even call in sick; there may be power failure and the standby generating set may fail to respond; what if it rains and your guests are stranded? The list is endless.

No matter what the challenge is, you are the “Mr. Fix it!” What I have learnt to do is to have at least two back-up plans for every original plan. That way, it is easy to make a switch. Sometimes you don’t wait for a miracle; you become the miracle! Yes, programmes may not go as planned, but if you manage them well, the event will turn out even better than planned.

•Your speech must serve as a bridge: one of your most important functions is to link all the activities of the event together. Not only must you introduce the next programme effectively, you must also be able to reflect on the last one and highlight the memorable points to your guests. This requires that you concentrate on all the programmes and not wonder away when you are not on stage. If you don’t comment on the just concluded programme, you are sending a message to the audience that you can’t wait to move to the next item and get everything done with.

•Make the event centre on the host: While you are the most visible person in the event, always keep it in mind that your function is to help the host have a brilliant programme. As much as you can, draw attention to him/her.

Dr. Amodu teaches at the Department of Mass Communication, Covenant University, Ogun State.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

51

52

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

53

MONEYLINK

‘Aggregate foreign inflow in Q4 hits $4.94b’

T

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says the nation’s aggregate foreign capital inflow stood at $4.94 billion as at the fourth quarter of 2013.

The bank said this in its External Sector Development report for the fourth quarter of 2013 which was posted on its Website.

It said the figure represented an increase of 24.3 per cent from the $3.97 billion recorded in the third quarter of 2013.

CBN also said the development was attributable to an increase

in direct and portfolio investment inflows.

According to the report, direct investment increased from $0.86 billion in the third quarter of 2013 to $1.00 billion in the fourth quarter of 2013.

It added that the increase in the figure represented a growth of 16.1 per cent.

The bank said portfolio investment inflows grew from $3.11 billion in the third quarter of 2013 to $3.94 billion in the forth quar-

Sterling Bank partners Chaz B on emotional intelligence

ter of 2013.

The apex bank said that portfolio investment inflow remained dominant and accounted for 79.7 per cent of total foreign inflows.

It also said that direct investment inflows accounted for 20.3 per cent of the total foreign inflow.

The bank explained that the higher inflow of foreign capital in the fourth quarter of 2013 was a welcome development which should be sustained through macro-economic stability.

It said that the positive growth had resulted into an enhanced in-

S

TERLING Bank Plc in its drive to enrich the lives of its customers and offer real value to the country as a whole has taken yet another bold step by supporting the award winning radio host Chaz B’s Emotional Intelligence event for couples.

The event according to the On Air Personality and motivational speaker has been carefully and specially crafted to cater for the needs of married and engaged couples.

In a statement, Sterling Bank’s Group Head, Strategy & Communications Mr. Shina Atilola said that the Bank was supporting the initiative because of its laudable objective which was to provide couples with the requisite skills to improve their relationships and deal with salient issues prevalent in marriages, which lead to breakdown in communication and other serious issues between couples.

He expressed his concern that a lot of couples entered into marriage without the necessary skills required for success. This, he explained, had led to the sharp increase in the number of divorce cases in the country.

“A lot of couples do not go through the rigors of understanding each other before they enter into marriage. As a result, they go into marriage unprepared. Marriage is about sharing lives, enduring partnerships and sharing love. Marriages are under pressure because there is not enough focus on these core relationship enablers”

•CBN Acting Governor Sarah Alade

vestment environment which includes good corporate governance.

CIBN issues code of conduct to check infractions

T

HE Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has issued new code of conduct for banks to check the rising cases of infractions in the banking industry.

The institutes also said it resolved 1350 petitions/cases of infractions within the last 13 years.

It said the new code of conduct represents the harmonized version of three codes, namely, the code of ethics and professionalism in the banking and finance industry, code of banking practice and the professional code of conduct.

Presenting the new code of conduct to the media in Lagos, the President/Chairman of Council, CIBN, Dr. Segun Aina said the new code emanated as part of efforts and mandate of the institute to further maintain and ensure compliance of banking institutions to the ethical standards and professionalism as well as guarantee the safety and soundness of the nation’s banking industry.

By Alvin Afadama

According to him, the code is expected to enhance the highest level of adherence to good banking practices and a strong commitment to high ethical standards in the banker-customer relationship.

He note that the provisions of

the code is binding on the industry as all operators and regulators made inputs to its development while approval was obtained from the bankers’ committee.

“The institute also requires its members, as a matter of necessity, to recognize the required responsibilities in the conduct of their businesses and to strictly adhere

to the code.

“The provisions in the code governs the behaviours of both individual and corporate bodies in the banking industry, It also applies to all strata/cadre of employees in the industry whether full time, part time, temporary, contract of in-sourced.

Bank’s forum promotes SMEs’ roles in oil & gas sector

S

MALL and medium scale enterprises (SMES) wishing to play in the nation’s oil and gas sector have been advised to fully understand the intricate operations of the industry locally and globally before venturing into it.

Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, author and cofounder, Falcon Petroleum Limited, who gave the advice on Fidelity SME Forum, a weekly programme

by Fidelity Bank Plc, said though this may sound basic but it is the truth.

Speaking on opportunities in the oil

and gas sector and what it takes to build a successful partnership with a spouse, she said the oil and gas industry is such a robust industry that most people just miss it, pointing out that in the gas business for instance, there is opportunity for producing, distributing or retailing either natural gas.

According to her, “there is opportunity in logistics and so many other aspects. The industry is not waiting for you; rather you are the one that is trying to carve a niche, so you owe it to yourself to do the

research even beyond that specific field to understand the global industry. “There are lots of opportunities because it’s a very robust industry. There’s so much going on now with the gas revolution, gas to power development etc. It’s just incredible.”

Explaining how she was able to build the skill to establish success in the oil and gas sector, she said: “In terms of my background, I didn’t have any in oil and gas or petroleum engineering.”

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year

35m 35m

11.039 12.23

19-05-2014 18-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 400m 400m 400m 400m 400m 400m

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33

OBB Rate

Price Loss 2754.67 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day

Amount 30m 46.7m

Rate % 10.96 9.62

Date 28-04-2012 “

O/PRICE 13.35 2.25 1.92 1.74 150.00 0.51 0.82 12.21 0.58 2.13

C/PRICE 14.30 2.36 2.01 1.82 155.95 0.53 0.85 12.64 0.60 2.20

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

(S/N)

GAINERS AS AT 15-05-14

SYMBOL ETI AIRSERVICE CUTIX MAYBAKER FO OASISINS WAPIC NASCON IKEJAHOTEL TRANSEXPR

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12

CHANGE 0.95 0.11 0.09 0.08 5.95 0.02 0.03 0.43 0.02 0.07

DISCOUNT WINDOWx Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00%

LOSERS AS AT 15-05-14

SYMBOL SKYEBANK SKYESHELT MOBIL INTENEGINS FBNH UBCAP FIDELITYBK HONYFLOUR TRANSCORP UAC-PROP

O/PRICE 3.72 100.00 125.55 0.54 13.60 2.43 2.09 3.80 3.80 18.46

C/PRICE 3.45 95.00 120.80 0.52 13.10 2.35 2.03 3.70 3.70 18.05

CHANGE -0.27 -5.00 -4.75 -0.02 -0.50 -0.08 -0.06 -0.10 -0.10 -0.41

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96%

Amount Sold ($) 399.9m 399.9m 399.9m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.75 155.8 155.7

Date 2-5-14 2-3-14 1-29-14

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

NSE

6-2-14

28-10-11

% Change

CAP Index

N13.07tr 40,766.16

N6.617tr 20,903.16

-1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name Offer Price AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 153.82 ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.06 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.17 CANARY GROWTH FUND 0.72 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CORAL INCOME FUND 1,637.31 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,070.14 FBN HERITAGE FUND 115.47 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 1,087.30 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 INTERCONTINENTAL INTEGRITY FUND 1.05 KAKAWA GUARANTE ED INCOME FUND 143.11 LEGACY FUND 0.78 NIGERIA INTER DEBIT FUND 1,916.66 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 12.72 STANBIC IBTC ETHICAL FUND 1.07

Bid Price 153.13 9.08 1.05 1.17 0.71 1.33 1,634.46 1,069.86 114.69 1,087.00 1.62 1.03 142.62 0.76 1,909.29 12.40 1.04

• UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

1.2889 1.3313 0.9405 1.1729

Movement

1.3005 1.3313 0.9583 1.1729

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000

8.5000

Movement

54

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 15-05-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 15-05-14

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

55

EQUITIES

Nigerian, global stocks fall on profit-taking

N

IGERIAN equities turned negative yesterday as investors sought to take profits on highly capitalised stocks that had driven sustained rally in recent trading sessions.

The main index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the All Share Index (ASI) depreciated by 59.79 points or 0.46 per cent to close at 38 957.47 points as against its opening index of 39 138.98 points.

Also, total market capitalisation of all quoted equities dropped by N59 billion or 0.46 per cent to close at N12.832 trillion from the N12.891 trillion recorded as opening value.

The depreciation was largely due to losses recorded in the share prices of some highly capitalised stocks such as Dangote Cement, SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp), FBN Holdings and Guinness Nigeria Plc among others.

The financial services sector remained the toast of investors as FBN Holding emerged the most traded equity with 54.41 million shares valued at N729.361 million. Zenith Bank placed second with 29.16 million shares worth N683.69 million while UBA accounted for 27.69 million shares valued N203.81 million.

Meanwhile, United States’ stocks fell a second day, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average sinking the most in a month, as investors continued

B

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

to sell small-cap shares and WalMart Stores forecast profit that missed estimates.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 0.9 per cent to 1,870.94. The Dow average declined 165.94 points, or 1 per cent, to 16,448.03, its biggest drop since April 10. The Russell 2000 Index of small companies sank 0.7 per cent, trimming an earlier slide of 1.9 percent.

“The primary sentiment right now is cautious and nervous,” Michael James, a Los Angeles-based managing director of equity trading at Wedbush Securities Inc, said in a phone interview with Bloomberg.

“It’s more a matter of capital preservation than it is trying to generate returns. This is a time of caution.

More people are looking to make sales and raise cash than they are to put cash to work on the weakness.”

The S&P 500 has dropped 1.4 per cent since closing at an all-time high of 1,897.45 on May 13. The gauge advanced as much as 4.5 per cent from a low on April 11 amid optimism about the economy and Federal Reserve stimulus.

The Russell 2000 has lost 3.3 per cent in the past three days following a 2.4 percent rally on May 12.

The gauge briefly fell 10 per cent below a March high today. A close

at that level would meet the common definition of a correction.

The Dow Jones Internet Index lost 0.6 percent for a third day of declines. The gauge has plunged 18 percent from a 13-year high in March.

Economic data yesterday showed industrial production in the U.S. unexpectedly declined in April, held back by a plunge in utilities as temperatures warmed and a broadbased decrease in manufacturing.

Manufacturing, which makes up 75 per cent of total production, decreased 0.4 per cent.

That contrasted with a higherthan-forecast reading on the Fed Bank of New York’s gauge of regional manufacturing, which climbed to 19.01 this month, from 1.29 in April.

Labor Department data showed the fewest Americans in seven years filed applications for unemployment benefits last week, while a separate report indicated the cost of living in the U.S. rose in April by the most in almost a year.

“There’s not really any great news here,” Randy Bateman, who oversees $3.5 billion as chief investment officer of Huntington Asset Advisors in Columbus, Ohio, said by phone. “It’s just a slower growing period. Unless we see something that will really drive inves-

tor enthusiasm, it’ll be a tradingrange market.”

Fed Chair Janet Yellen said last week that the world’s biggest economy still requires a strong dose of stimulus. While data show “solid growth” in the second quarter, “many Americans who want a job are still unemployed” and inflation remains low, she said.

Yellen will address the U.S. Chamber of Commerce after the market closes today.

Three rounds of monetary stimulus have helped fuel economic growth, sending the S&P 500 surging as much as 180 percent from its 2009 low.

David Tepper, founder of $20 billion hedge-fund firm Appaloosa Management LP, said he’s nervous about markets as the U.S. economy isn’t growing fast enough amid complacency by the Federal Reserve.

“The market is kind of dangerous in a way,” Tepper said yesterday at the SkyBridge Alternatives Conference in Las Vegas. “I think it’s nervous time,” he said, adding that markets may “grind higher” in the near term.

Tepper, 56, who started his Short Hills, New Jersey-based firm in 1993, said he’s more worried about deflation than inflation and that this is the time to preserve money.

Bankers parley with NSE over market growth

ANKERS, under the auspices of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), have given their commitments to work with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in strengthening best practices in the Nigerian financial markets.

Banks represent more than 20 per cent of the market capitalisation of the NSE and they are the most active sector driving transactions at the stock market.

President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Dr. Segun Aina, yesterday during an official visit to the management of the NSE in Lagos, said the banking sector is closely linked with the stock market, thus the need for the bankers and the NSE to work together to provide proactive measures that would stimulate corporate governance and forestall malpractices.

According to him, the partnership would help to further deepen the relationship between the NSE, CIBN and the banking industry with the common objective of developing the economy of Nigeria and ensuring capital market growth.

He noted that the economic crisis and capital market recession witnessed in the recent past would not have happened if proactive steps were taken before then.

He pointed out that the CIBN has been making efforts to strengthen regulatory framework noting that

it recently launched a new code of conduct for the banking industry which strengthens the requirement for the ethical standard.

He outlined that the objective of the code was to instill discipline in the banking profession noting that the provisions in the code govern the behaviours of both individual and corporate bodies in the banking industry.

According to him, the code applies to all strata and cadres of employee in the industry, including executive directors, managers, officers and supervisors, whether full-time or part-time while it alos enunciates the guidelines on the handling of reported cases, petitions and complaints.

“Crisis will always come but we have seen countries that were not affected by the last global financial

crisis. We will come out with rule, regulation and requirement that will prepare the country for any upcoming global crisis,” Aina said.

He cautioned bankers against involving in fraudulent practices warning that any member that engaged in malpractices would be made to face disciplinary procedures.

Consolidated Breweries rewards shareholders HAREHOLDERS of Consolidated Breweries Plc yes- with N918m dividend

S

terday at the company’s annual general meeting unanimously approved a gross dividend of N917.7 million as cash payouts for the 2013 business year. The breakdown indicates shareholders will receive a dividend per share of N1.85.

Shareholders at the meeting also threw their weight behind the ongoing plan to merge the company with the Nigerian Breweries Plc, noting that this would result in a bigger and better company. They however demanded for fair valuation of their shares in the merger process.

Speaking at the general meeting, chairman, Consolidated Breweries Plc, Prof. Oyin Odutola-Olurin, assured shareholders that the board is commit-

ted to protection of shareholders’ interests, assuring that shareholders will receive adequate value in the merger.

It will be recalled that managements of Consolidated Breweries and Nigerian Breweries had in a statement on Monday announced plan to merge both entities for better performance.

Odutola-Olurin said the immediate past year was a truly eventful year as the company achieved several milestones in its journey towards greatness.

According to her, major achievements included the expansion of the company’s production capacity, the successful merger of Benue Breweries Limited and DIL/Maltex (Nigeria)

Plc, the introduction of a new system which improved the controls in business, as well as the introduction of a new bottle for “33” and a variant of Malt drink, the Hi-Malt Choco Twist.

She also hinted of the plan to use gas to power some of the equipment at the Ijebu Ode Brewery, in an effort to drive down costs.

Managing director, Consolidate Breweries Plc, Mr Boudewijn Haarsma noted that the company has been integrated into Heineken’s longterm sustainability strategy.

“We aim to create genuine shared value for all our stakeholders as sustainability is part of how we manage our business”, Haarsma said.

Unilever Nigeria focuses on long-term profitability

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NILEVER Nigeria Plc is making strategic investments and changes that would enhance its long-term competitiveness and profitability, although the immediate impact of these initiatives might constrain returns in the meantime.

Unilever Nigeria yesterday at its annual general meeting in Lagos unveiled its growth plan to shareholders. While noting the depressed bottom-line in recent years, the conglomerate outlined strategic growth initiatives aimed at strengthening its consumercentric advantage and ensured it is better placed to provide competitive products through efficient and wide channels at the right prices, irrespective of the changes in the operating environment.

Addressing shareholders, chairman, Unilever Nigeria Plc, HRM Nnaemeka Achebe, said shareholders might have to sacrifice short-term gains for long-term returns as the conglomerate seeks to strengthen its fundamentals.

According to him, the performance of the company in 2013, as in the previous years, was indicative of the short-term effects of deliberate investment strategy to achieve a more sustainable future.

He pointed out that the fundamentals of the company remain strong and ongoing initiatives would lead to more enduring and sustainable corporate performance.

“As we continue our sustainability journey, it is evident that we will have to sacrifice short-term profitability to build a more enduring business and fully harness the opportunities that the Nigerian market portends. As we maintain single-minded focus on our consumers and customers, strengthening our core categories, driving cost and complexity reduction with vigour, building people capability and a fit organisation, and leveraging our Unilever Sustainable Living Plan for growth, we are confident that all these deliberate thrusts can only translate into evident value addition in the longer term for all stakeholders,” Achebe stated.

Citing the improvement in sales in 2013, Achebe noted that Unilever Nigeria is emerging as a sturdier consumer-centric company, which is better fit to compete for consumers of the future.

He added that the company was committed to driving the implementation of initiatives that would enhance flow of communication with shareholders and almost immediate rendition of returns urging all shareholders to support the electronic dividend and electronic bonus payment systems.

According to him, automation of dividend payment directly into shareholders’ accounts would reduce the incidence of unclaimed dividend and share certificates.

Achebe however noted the need for government to address macroeconomic challenges pointing out that the operating environment has remained tough.

According to him, Nigeria has experienced further decline in the ease of doing business index while power generation cost rose to astronomical heights, affecting not only the cost of production but also putting increased pressure on the disposable income of consumers.

THE NATION FRIDAY MAY 16, 2014

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NEWS

•President Goodluck Jonathan (fifth left); Vice President Namadi Sambo (fifth right) in a group photograph with traditional rulers From oil producing states...yesterday

33,000 litres of diesel seized From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

THE NNS Jubilee in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State has impounded a-33,000 litre tanker suspected to be carrying refined diesel.

The Commander, Commodore Joel Ogazi, said the diesel was impounded during an operation in Eket Local Government Area. He said Udo Friday was arrested during the operation.

The commander said: “The base will continue to clamp-down on illegal bunkerers within Akwa Ibom State. We have promised that we are going to get rid of and ensure zero tolerance of illegal bunkering because it is the mandate given to us by the Chief of Naval Staff.

“As you can see behind me, a very large tanker was impounded by my patrol team at Namitia waterside very close to Eket town.”

Commodore Ogazi, who handed over the suspect and the impounded items to the Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp, Petro Idaba, thanked other security agencies for their support.

Shot UNICAL lecturer dies From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

A LECTURER in the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Dr Godwin Iwatt, who was shot penultimate Tuesday by unknown gunmen in his office is dead. He died yesterday in the institution’s teaching hospital.

Iwatt was an Examinations and Records Officer in the Department of Microbiology.

The university’s spokesman, Effiong Eyo, said Iwatt died at 12.30pm.

Iwatt was shot in the stomach on May 6 in his office by an assailant, who is still at large.

He was rushed to the health centre and later transferred to the teaching hospital, where he was said to be responding to treatment.

“Though he seemed to be getting better, complications arose and efforts to keep him proved abortive,” a hospital source said.

UNIUYO VC escapes assassination

Proprietor’s son arrested for ‘defiling’ 11 pupils V S •Angry parents shut school ON of a school proprietor in Benin City, the Edo State capital, has been arrested for allegedly defiling 11 female pupils.

The suspect, who is also the school administrator, was caught after a close monitoring of his activities.

Neighbours were said to have been suspicious of why some female pupils remain in school till five and six pm everyday.

The neighbours, sources said, reported to some parents, who questioned their daughters on what they were doing late in school. The girls

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

were said to have opened up on the alleged sexual escapades of the suspect.

The parents reported to the Child Protection Network (CPN), a non governmental organisation (NGO), renowned for ensuring that rape victims get justice.

Parents and members of the

NGO, led by its coordinator, Jennifer Ero, marched on the school, demanding justice.

Irked by the proprietor’s attitude, the protesters broke into the school and chased pupils away.

Ms Ero said her group was informed about the suspect’s sexual activities through their hotlines, adding that investigation showed that six of the

11 pupils were sexually abused.

The NGO, she said, was working towards ensuring that the suspect was charged to court.

Ms Ero said: “We have our hotlines. He is behind bars.

We are processing papers to ensure that he is taken to court.”

Police spokesman Friday Uwoh Noble confirmed the arrest, saying investigations were still on.

Niger Delta youths threaten to cripple economy

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IGER Delta youths vowed yesterday to return to the creeks and cripple the economy, if the National Conference failed to uphold resource control and true federalism.

The youths, under the aegis of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, rejected the decision of the National Conference Sub-Committee on Devolution and Resource Control to maintain the current 13 per cent derivation for oil-producing states.

IYC, in a statement by its spokesman, Eric Omare, described the decision as retro-

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa and Bolaji Ogundele, Warri

gressive, anti-federalism and unacceptable to Niger Delta people.

Omare said: “The IYC wish to warn that the decision of the Niger Delta people to give peace a chance to allow the Federal Government address the problems of the Niger Delta should not be taken as weakness.

“The Niger Delta people are still willing, ready and capable of bringing the Nigeria economy to its knees.”

He said the committee’s re-

fusal to address the issue of resource control had betrayed the region’s expectations.

The committee, Omare said, had made nonsense of the conference as an avenue to “right the wrongs of the past, deepen our federal system of government and put Nigeria on the path for development”.

Omare described the decision as simply a triumph of the retrogressive and provocative agenda of reactionary forces in northern Nigeria.

“The opposition of reactionary northern delegates to resource control and demand for scrapping of the Niger Delta

Chibok girls: Conference pressure group backs Fed Govt on foreign assistance

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GROUP under the aegis of the National Unity Forum (NUF), at the National Conference backed yesterday President Goodlock Jonathan for accepting foreign assistance to rescue the Chibok school girls abducted by the Boko Haram fundamentalists in Borno State.

The group whose membership is drawn from the conference, condemned the abduction.

It applauded the support from the international community and the global campaign to “BringBackOurGirls” safely.

Coordinator of the group, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, who led other members to address journalists at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), venue of the conference appealed to other delegates and Nigerians generally to eschew rancours that might affect the unity of the country.

Mantu said, “We can make progress only by eschewing

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

divisive politicking and rancor. We cannot possibly be great, when our house is in disorder. Our country is in a hurry to advance the welfare and well-being of our teeming youth towards in realising their God-given talents, aspirations and vision.”

Flanked by a former Senate President Senator Adolphus Wabara and Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Mantu urged delegates to also eschew sectional interests at the conference.

“Our contributions and expressions should be guided by sense of responsibility and patriotism. We must remember that history will be kind or harsh with us depending on which side of history we choose to be.

“We represent different groups but we must not allow our representation of these interest groups to becloud our sense of patriotism, reasoning and objectivity,” Mantu pleaded.

He noted that the conference was meant to further cement the country’s unity in diversity and complement various efforts aimed at further strengthening historical, present and future aspirations.

The former Deputy Senate President urged delegates to use their contributions to chart course for the country’s advancement, adding that the spirit of brotherhood should not be lost on the altar of sentimental agitation based on ethnic, religious and regional leanings.

“The time has come for all of us to rally together as a people with indivisible vision and determination to conquer forces of evil that are bent on tearing us apart. “We will be able to surmount and overcome our challenges with determination, hope, sincerity and determination.

“We can make progress only by eschewing divisive politicking and rancour. We cannot possibly be great when our house is in disorder.”

Development Commission ( NDDC), Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the Amnesty programme are provocative to the Niger Delta people and we may be forced to take drastic actions.

“The IYC strongly call on southern delegates, particularly Niger Delta delegates to the National Confab to insist on resource control during the debate in plenary and not to deviate from the position of the region on resource control under any circumstance.

“The IYC has observed with dismay the unauthorised and reckless contributions of some Niger Delta delegates who have taken positions which amount to deviation and betrayal of the Niger Delta position.

“Any Niger Delta delegate who deviates from our position on resource control would be declared as a persona non grata and would not be allowed to return to the region,” the statement said.

ICE Chancellor of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO) Prof Comfort Ekpo escaped being assassinated on Wednesday, when gunmen visited her home at Ewet Housing Estate in Uyo, the state capital.

The attack on the VC’s Lodge, according to a statement by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mrs. Edak Umondak, occurred at 11.30pm.

Mrs. Umondak said: “The gunmen, who were spotted by the fence, had a gun duel with the policemen on duty and later zoomed off in their vehicle. The University of Uyo is very grateful to God that no life was lost.

“On June 12, last year, certain disgruntled elements unleashed senseless mayhem on the university’s Town Campus, during which many university property went up in flames.

“It has become necessary to alert the public to the escalating violence against our VC, who is passionate about the entrenchment of quality education in the university.”

But police spokesman Etim Dickson said there was no attempt on the VC’s life.

Dickson said: “I don’t want to believe that the UNIUYO VC was attacked because none of her orderlies was hurt. What we noticed was that there was a party in the neighbourhood and gunshots were heard.

“Immediately, the police patrol team visited the area and also visited the VC’s Lodge and found that everything was normal.”

Plot to stop Ibaka Deep Seaport PLOT to obstruct the uncovered actualisation of the

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Ibaka Deep Seaport in Akwa Ibom State by people working with some officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has been uncovered.

Investigation showed that the plotters got a letter from the NPA, portraying the project as unviable.

The plot is designed to ensure that the Ibaka project is dropped for the development of new seaports in other parts of the country.

The Akwa Ibom State Government, in collaboration with the NPA, is planning to develop a Deep Sea Port within the Ibom Indus-

trial Free Trade Zone to facilitate economic development in the Southsouth and the Gulf of Guinea.

It was learnt that the Godswill Akpabio administration has made a huge financial commitment to the realisation of the seaport.

It has acquired 14,400 hectares of land, appointed transaction advisors and set up an implementation committee to drive the initiative.

Some top government officials reteirated Akpabio’s readiness to support the Federal Government and other investors to actualise the dream.

THE NATION FRIDAY MAY 16, 2014

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NEWS

Conference delegates to Fed Govt: negotiate with Boko Haram now

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HE Federal Government got yesterday the backing of members of the National Conference to negotiate with members of the devilish Boko Haram group for the release of the abducted over 200 girls from Chibok, Borno State.

The delegates said that the pains of the mothers and Nigerians at large should not be overlooked.

They said the negotiation would also provide the opportunity for government to have better understanding of the group’s grievances.

According to Ganiyu Adams, negotiating with the group would afford the government the opportunity to have an insight into the workings of the insurgent group towards disarming it.

“Government should negotiate with Boko Haram because the lives of these girls is more important than anything at this point in time.

Politics should not be brought into it and as we can see, the world powers are coming into it and giving their assistance.

From: Onyedi Ojiabor, Assitant Editor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

“If we move fast, negotiate and succeed, there may be no need for the asistance of these foreign powers, remember we are a sovereign state and we should be seen managing our affairs as it best suit us.

“I think by negotiating with Boko Haram, government would be able to know them more and have better understanding of the whole issues agitating their mind. This way, I believe would even assist our intelligence system.

Mike Ezekhome (SAN) warned that Nigerians should be cautious about politicizing the issue, saying, “My position is that life is supreme and can not be duplicated. The lives of these girls should not be trivialized on the alter of grandstanding or pride.

“This is a situation where the Federal government should negotiate with Boko Haram for the release of those girls whose parents are traumatised and weeping dai-

ly.

“In life, it is about give and take, you win some and lose some. Even the United Nations recognises negotiation, arbitration as an instrument for achieving peace. All the World Wars finally ended at a table leading to world peace.

“Therefore, I don’t see anything fundamentally bad about negotiating with Boko Haram. I dont see that as a way of encouraging them to bomb more.

“Rather, what we are saying is,,for now, as a short term measure, these our daughters we don’t want them dead, give back to us alive and well.

“In other words, let government give them back few of their detainees, especially those we learnt are family members, who were not themselves caught on the street committing the crimes.

“This is what I think goverment should do, they should not shy away from it, they should not see it as a loss of face. After all when the militants were devastating Niger-

ia, the late President Yar’Adua set up the amnesty panel and negotiated with them which brought about peace at the end.

“Though the cause of the militants can not be equated with that of the Boko Haram but we should take a cue from that, that there are times when negotiation is very important.

“I think the Federal government set up the Turaki panel for negotiation which the Boko Haram rejected. This should be an opportunity to negotiate not jus the release of these girls but the causes of the insurgency in its entirety and how to bring about peace and tranquility in Nigeria”.

Amb Hassan Adamu, who is also the Wakili of Adamawa supported negotiation government should give certain conditions to the insurgent group.

“Government should negotiate but when dealing with terrorism it is a complex and difficult situation but no government wants to yield to the demands of terrorists while

sending a clear mesage that terrorism can not win.

“I dont like the idea of negotiating with terrirists, but i think what should be done while negotiating is that the group abide by the term of the agreement and the rule of law or decisive action be taken against them,” he said.

Mrs Temitope Ajayi, a delegate representing the Nigerians in Diaspora said from a mother’s point of view and concern, government should negotiate.

She said: “For me and as a mother, my heart is bleeding. I am on my knees because I know that it is not easy to be a mother and I know all mothers around the world are appealing that these kids be released unharmed.

“Government should negotiate because they have made their demands, the government have to dialogue to see how the genuine ones could be accepted.

“We can not continue to destroy ourselves and I see this as an opportunity to implore the President

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ORMER Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim was all tears yesterday as he beheld the ruins of what used to be his palatial home in Owerri, the state capital. The house was reduced to rubble after an explosion, which occurred barely 48 hours to Ohakim’s planned declaration of his intention to run for governor next year.

But the state government condemned the “act of cowardice”.

Receiving a crowd of sympathisers, Ohakim, said he had been rendered homeless by the action of his perceived political opponents.

“What it means now is that anytime I have something to do in Owerri, I will be begging people for where to sleep in a state I once presided over as governor,” he said.

The former governor, who wore a pensive look, narrated how his security men broke the news of the explosion to him.

He said: “At about 1.30 a.m., my security men called that they heard a loud bang, like an explosion, followed by a huge flame, which immediately engulfed the house and they tried to put out the fire with water, but the whole building was razed by fire.

“When I got here, I met the rubble of what used to be my home. I think what triggered their adrenalin was my intention to make a political statement on Saturday. I don’t know how they did it. They might have thrown in the explosive or whatever, I don’t know, but I will leave that for the security people to investigate. As you all are aware, this is my only house in Owerri, even as a former governor of the state and this was built before I came into office.

“You are also aware that as a former governor,I am entitled to a guest house but I was denied that by Governor Rochas Okorocha who even seized my personal properties, including the ones

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APC exco takes charge at Apapa

By Adeyinka Aderibigbe

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Apapa Local Government has sworn in 26 executive members amidst cheers by party faithful.

Welcoming the members, the Chairman, Alhaji Abdul-Fatai Sanni, who had earlier been sworn in by the state chapter on May 2, at the secretariat at ACME in Ogba, assured party faithful of his determination to run an open door policy, even as he called for the cooperation of all members.

He thanked all members for trooping out enmasse to witness the event adding that members should continue to throw their weight behind the party in order to continue to ensure the success at the polls.

The officiating legal officer Barr.

Akin Kereem later admitted the oath on all members.

Explosion rocks Ohakim’s Owerri residence

‘Osun records 200,000 cases of Malaria’ From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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•The ruins of Ohakim’s home after the explosion...yesterday.

PHOTOS: OKODILI NDIDI

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

belonging to my wife and children.

I am worried about the way the opposition in the state is carrying on.”

Ohakim added that when he was the governor, he did not assassinate any opposition member, neither did he harass anyone.

“I even took care of the opposition in the state, but they have done this to intimidate me, but I will go ahead and make my political statement as planned on Saturday. I will even make more statement than I had planned because I won’t be cowed by this incident,” he said.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Sam

Onwuemeodo described the incident “dastardly and despicable” Onwuemeodo noted that for the former governor’s house to have been burnt on Wednesday night, barely 48 hours to his reported declaration of his intention to join the 2015 governorship race, called for concern.

A statement issued by the governor’s aide condemning the action reads: “The Imo State Government condemns the act in its entirety. It is an act of cowardice.

It is barbaric and unfortunate in all ramifications.

“The government of the day with Owelle Rochas Okorocha has been preaching tolerance and politics without bitterness among Imo politicians, and the governor

has also been demonstrating that both in words and in action since he came on board in 2011.

“And that is why, politicians in the state, irrespective of their political parties, have been coming to the state to say whatever they like or do whatever they want to do, without any interference or disturbance. Journalists in the state have also been writing whatever they want to write without anybody disturbing them.

“So, the burning of the former governor’s house for any reason is condemnable and unacceptable.

The former governor has not done

anything to constitute a threat to anybody since he left office, to warrant anybody or group of persons burning his house.”

Onwuemeodo said “as an illustrious son of the state”, Ohakim has the right to vie for any position he desires and that anybody who feels threatened by his ambition should have the option of quitting the race or dropping his own aspiration.

The government called on the Commissioner of Police and other security agents to investigate the incident with the aim of bringing those behind it to book.

Nyanya bombings: DSS arrests Ogwuche’s father

HE spokesperson for the Department of State Services, Marylyn Ogar yesterday disclosed that the Federal Government has arrested retired Colonel Agene Ogwuche, the father of Aminu Sadiq Ogwuche. Aminu is suspected to be behind the bombings in Nyanya, an outskirt of the city.

Ogar spoke at the daily media briefing by the National Information Centre at the National Orientation Agency in Abuja.

She said that the retired Colonel was arrested because he

and support his wife, Dame Patience to negotiate with the Boko Haram and get our girls back. All the mothers of this world are saying to Boko Haram Du Allah Du Anabi, yankuri.

Also, a pressure group, the National Unity Forum, at the National Conference yesterday praised President Goodlock Jonathan for accepting the assistance offered from the international community to rescue the girls The 18-member group that has the likes of Former Senate President, Adolphus Wabara, former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu, Sen Florence Ita-Giwa, Cliford Abur Engr. Adefemi Kila said the abutilon was abominable.

While condemning the act I. Strong terms, the group expressed appreciation for the support from the international community and the global campaign to bring back the girls to safety.

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

breached the bond, which he signed while taking his son’s bail in 2012 when he was arrested then.

Ogwuche, a British born Nigerian, was arrested on November 12, 2011 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on arrival from the UK on terrorism-related charges but was released on October 15, 2012, following pressure from human rights activists, who alleged violation of his freedom.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Frank Mba however said the retired military colonel would be made to answer for his inability to meet the bail bond, which he signed.

Also at the briefing, the Federal Government said efforts are being intensified to ascertain the veracity of the statement credited to the Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima on the Chibok abducted girls.

The governor was quoted to have said that he had sighted the girls.

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mike Omeri said the Federal Government would not join issues with anybody on the pages of newspaper on the whereabouts of the girls.

“All hands are on deck to ensure that the girls return safe, sound and with the right orientation,” Omeri said.

He said the government also commended the people of Kalabalge in Borno State for foiling attempt by the Boko Haram to attack the community on Tues-

day.

He said that it was good enough that the residents mobilised against the attackers to stop them from carrying out the heinous crime.

Omeri said that the actual casualties in the foiled attack had not been determined, adding that the Federal Government would soon make the figure available.

“The community were fully mobilised as to the fight against terrorism having understand their environment,” he claimed.”

O fewer than 200,000 people have records malaria cases in the State of Osun State, which is contrary to the alarming 750,000 and 500,000 recorded in 2011 and 2012 respectively, courtesy Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s environmental sanitation drive.

The Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Prof Olubukola Oyawoye, diclosed this yesterday while delivering a monthly guest lecture at the Correspondents’ Chapel of Oyo State Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

He attributed the caused of the malaria outbreak to the huge flood, which stood as a challenge for the government of Aregbesola at inception.

Governor praised

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LL Progressives Congress (APC) members from Ogbomosho North Local Government have praised Governor Abiola Ajimobi for appointing Temilola Adibi as the caretaker chairman for another three months.

The APC members also urged residents to support the Ajimobiled administration for continuous transformation.

Kayode Adeniran, who led thousands of APC members to the governor’s office at Agodi-Secretariat to express their appreciation, noted that the governor has really proved that he is a listening governor.

According to him, Ajimobi is a lover of peace and progress, and he has shown this by returning Temilola Adibi, who is a lover of the masses.

THE NATION FRIDAY MAY 16, 2014

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NEWS

Gunmen attack Bauchi village

Jigawa spends N2.5b on agric From Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

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GUNMEN on Wednesday attacked Shadarki village in Darazo Local Government Area of Bauchi State, burning a telecommunications mast.

They also torched Shadarki and Yelwan Darazo Primary Schools.

A source said: ‘’No human casualties were recorded.”

The area has been cordoned off by soldiers and policemen.

Police spokesman Haruna Mohammed confirmed the incident, assuring that the gunmen will be captured.

Archbisop Atilade clocks 70 RENOWNED cleric and professor of medicine Archbishop Magnus Adeyemi Atilade will clock 70 on Sunday.

A thanksgiving service will be held on Sunday at Dr. Akinola Maja Memorial Gospel Baptist Cathedral, opposite Awolowo Market, Agege Motor Road, Mushin by noon.

Archbishop Sunday Ola Makinde will deliver the sermon. Guests will be entertained at the New State High School, Palm Avenue, Olorunsogo, Mushin.

Atilade is the Southwest Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), national president of Christian Welfare Initiative (CWI), Archbishop and president, Gospel Baptist Conference of Nigeria and overseas; Southwest Chairman Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) and proprietor, New State High School, Mushin, Lagos.

Yero to punish culprits From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

KADUNA State Governor Ramalan Yero has said anyone found culpable in the crisis that erupted in Kachia, southern Kaduna, will be punished.

Speaking when he visited victims yesterday, the governor said: “Investigation has started and perpetrators will be punished. I call on the people not to try to thwart the course of justice by protecting suspects.”

He called on the people to prevent their children from engaging in violent acts, saying “if you allow your children to engage in such acts, they will one day turn against you when there is no crisis”.

The governor admonished women to desist from protesting half naked and called on them to always present their grievances with dignity and respect to womanhood.

Yero visited camps of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and the hospital where victims are receiving treatment.

•The victims...yesterday.

‘Human trafficker’ arrested in Jos

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SUSPECTED human trafficker has been arrested in Jos, the Plateau State capital, by the police.

Naphtali Zabade, from Dahwak Kuru, Jos, was apprehended at a motor park in Jos while allegedly attempting to transport six teenage girls to Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

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From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

Commissioner of Police Chris Olakpe said: “The suspect and the victims were arrested at Silver Motor Park, Gadabiu, Jos on their way to Port Harcourt.

“Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed that the gi r l s w er e taken from Mangor village in Bokkos

Local Government Area to Port Harcourt where they will be given menial jobs.”

But Zabade denied he was a trafficker.

He claimed that he works for a missionary centre in Port Harcourt and that the girls will be helped by the center to get jobs. “ I am just trying to help these girls,” Zabade said.

The police commissioner described human trafficking as modern slavery, which is becoming rampart in the country.

The police also paraded eight suspects arrested with arms during the land dispute crisis in Bassa Local Government.

Ibori has case to answer, says court

HE travails of former Delta State Governor James Ibori are far from over as the Court of Appeal sitting in Benin City ruled yesterday that he has a case to answer.

This is coming six years after Justice Marcel Awokulehin struck out all 170count charge of money laundering preferred against Ibori by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Ibori is serving a 13-year jail term in London.

The appellate court head-

•Ex-governor heads to Supreme Court From Osagie Otabor, Benin

ed by a three-man panel of justices in a unanimous judgment set aside Justice Awokulehin’s ruling.

Justice Ibrahim Saulawa read the ruling and was supported by Justices P. M Ekpe and H. A Barka.

The EFCC approached the Court of Appeal on four grounds which are that the trial judge looked at the proof of evidence and evaluated same as if the prosecution had called all its wit-

nesses and trial has been concluded and that the procedure was by way of summary trial and not trial by indictment or information.

Others are that the proof of evidence clearly shows a prima facie case has been disclosed against the accused/ respondent and that His Lordship erred when he held that no case was disclosed against the accused/ respondent.

Ibori has asked his lawyers to head to the Supreme

Court.

In a statement by his Media Assistant, Tony Eluemunor, the former governor said despite his travails, he remained an unfailing believer in the rule of law, especially the courts.

Ibori said: “The decision of the Federal High Court in Asaba, which the Court of Appeal sitting in Benin has struck down, was perhaps the most politicised in Nigerian history.”

The ex-governor called on his supporters to remain calm.

Monarch to Orubebe: be a servant leader

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ORMER Niger Delta Affairs Minister Godsday Orubebe has been advised to be a servant leader.

The Dein of Agbor, Obi Benjamin Ikechukwu, gave the advice when Orubebe visited him as part of consultation ahead of his governorship ambition declaration.

The monarch declared that he had studied Orubebe and noted his sacrifice

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and contributions to the Niger Delta and his achievements as minister.

Ikechukwu described Orubebe as a gentleman with solid leadership qualities who can serve the people well.

He said the restiveness in the nation today was a product of bad leadership and the only antidote to it was for leaders to be responsive to the needs of their people.

The monarch urged politicians to focus on performance as a parameter and not dwell on mundane issues.

Orubebe thanked the monarch for giving him an opportunity to consult with him on his next political action.

He said a good candidate should succeed Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.

Orubebe also visited Obiaruku in Ukwani Local Government where he was

From Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

Nigeria (IPMAN).

The other applicants are: Abubakar Shettima, Danladi Passali, Bola Adeleke, Leo Nkameme, Yakubu Dimka and JD Ubini, Hammed Fashola, Umar Kano, Ezekwesili Maduagwuna and Yakubu Suleiman.

Lawson has described Okoronkwo’s election as illegitimate.

The court order also restrains Lawson –whether by himself, agents, servants, officers and privies from conducting, organising, supervising or carrying out any election of the National executives/officials of IPMAN, pending the

N2.5 billion for various projects in agriculture, education and health sectors.

Commissioner for Information Babandi Ibrahim Gumel, who announced this after the state executive council meeting, said the N1.4 billion contract for the building of the general hospital at Birninkudu was approved.

The commissioner said the contract awarded to Datun Construction Company will be completed in eight months.

Gumel said the government also approved the building of 30 more windmills on grazing lands across the state at the cost of N350 million.

He said external works at the State University, Kafin Hausa, will be completed at N114 million.

Polio in Kano From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

T

WO cases of poliomyelitis have been uncovered in Gaya and Tarauni local governments of Kano State within the first quarter of the year.

Commissioner for Health Labaran Yusuf confirmed this yesterday at a briefing on the outcome of the review of polio eradication campaign and other immunisation activities within the period under review.

Yusuf, who spoke through the Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care, Shehu Usman, said the state also recorded 160 cases of measles in 30 of the 44 local governments.

He added that the state covered 72 per cent for all antigens as against 79 per cent of the expected target for immunisation in the first quarter of the year.

N220m for Kwara’s grazing reserves From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

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•Orubebe

received by the people and ushered into the town with dances and traditional gun salute.

IPMAN: Court restrains faction

N Abuja High Court has granted an interim injunction restraining Obasi Lawson and his group from “interfering with or disrupting the operations, activities and affairs” of the Chinedu Okoronkwo-led executive of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of

IGAWA State Governor Sule Lamido has approved the release of

hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice, which is fixed for June 2.

Lawson and the other defendants are also restrained from gaining access to or entering the premises known and located at 41 Gnasimbge Eyadema Street, Asokoro District, Abuja, “same being the National Secretariat of IPMAN.”

HE Kwara State government has approved N220 million for the creation of grazing reserves for use by herdsmen.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources Kayode Towoju said this after the state’s executive council meeting.

He said the development followed the understanding by government to create a reliable solution to the cases of incessant face-off between farmers and herdsmen.

The commissioner said the new grazing reserves will be located at Alapa for the North Central, Lada in Patigi Local Government Area for the Northern zone and Babanla Ifelodun for the South.

Nine stock routes, which cover the three senatorial districts, have also been approved by the government.

He said government will also expand an existing grazing settlement at Baruten Local Government, which hosts over 100 herdsmen so that it can accommodate more.

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

FOREIGN NEWS U.S. plans nearly $1 billion arms deal with Iraq

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HE United States plans to sell nearly $1 billion worth of warplanes, armoured vehicles and surveillance aerostats to Iraq.

The deal includes 24 AT-6C Texan II light-attack aircraft, a turboprop plane manufactured

by Beechcraft that has .50 caliber machine guns, advanced avionics and can carry precisionguided bombs, the Pentagon said. The aircraft and related equipment and services are valued at $790 million.

The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency informed Congress on Tuesday of the planned sale, which will go ahead unless lawmakers block the deal.

“The proposed sale of these

aircraft, equipment and support will enhance the ability of the Iraqi forces to sustain themselves in their efforts to bring stability to Iraq and to prevent overflow of unrest into neighboring countries,” the agency said in a notice.

The sale is the latest in a series of US weapons deals with Iraq as Baghdad seeks to bolster its armed forces amid rising violence linked to Al-Qaeda militants and sectarian divisions between the Shiite-led government and disgruntled Sunnis.

Iraq has previously agreed to purchase 36 US F-16 fighter jets.

This week’s deal also included 200 “up-armoured” Humvee vehicles with machine gun mounts, worth $101 million.

Sudan woman faces death for apostasy

A

SUDANESE court has sentenced a woman to hang for apostasy after she left Islam and married a Christian man.

“We gave you three days to recant but you insist on not returning to Islam. I sentence you to be hanged to death,” the judge told the woman, AFP reports.

Human rights group Amnesty International condemned the sentence as “appalling and abhorrent”.

Local media report the sentence would not be carried out for two years after she has given birth.

I am a Christian and I never committed apostasy” Sudan has a majority Muslim population, which is governed

by Islamic law. It rules that apostasy - the abandonment of one’s religious faith - is a crime.

Western embassies and rights groups had urged Sudan to respect the right of the pregnant woman to choose her religion.

The judge also sentenced the woman to 100 lashes after convicting her of adultery - because her marriage to a Christian man was not valid under Islamic law.

This will reportedly be carried out when she has recovered from giving birth.

Amnesty International said the woman, Meriam Yehya Ibrahim Ishag, was raised as an Orthodox Christian, her mother’s religion, because her father, a Muslim, was reportedly absent during her childhood.

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New York dedicates 9/11 museum

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RESIDENT Barack Obama has joined September 11 survivors and rescuers at the dedication of a memorial museum on the site of the attacks in New York.

Mr Obama told those gathered it was a “sacred place of healing and of hope”.

The National September 11 Memorial Museum includes thousands of personal items and parts of the World Trade Center towers themselves.

Almost 3,000 people died on 11 September 2001 after al-Qaeda hijackers flew aeroplanes into the towers.

Another hijacked plane hit the Pentagon. A fourth crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers fought with the hijackers.

•A “sacred place of healing and of hope’’ says Obama

In his opening remarks at the ceremony, former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the museum was “a reminder to us and all future generations that freedom carries heavy responsibilities”.

President Obama said the museum means we can all “look into the faces of nearly 3,000 innocent souls”.

“We can touch their names and hear their voices, glimpse the small items that speak to the beauty of their lives - the wedding rings, a duty helmet, a shining badge,” he told those gathered.

In his short speech, the president recalled the story of Welles Crowther, a 24-year-old World

Trade Center worker and former volunteer firefighter who became known as “the man in the red bandana” after leading workers to safety before dying in the south tower’s collapse.

His bandana is in the museum and his mother, Alison, told the audience she hoped it would remind visitors “how people helped each other that day, and that they will be inspired to do the same in ways both big and small”.

The museum features dramatic and horrific moments of the day in videos, including the two skyscrapers collapsing, but also symbols of heroism, such as damaged fire trucks and the wristwatch of one of the passen-

15 crew indicted over South Korean ferry disaster

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ROSECUTORS indicted the captain of the sunken South Korean ferry and three crew members on homicide charges yesterday, alleging they were negligent and failed to protect more than 300 people missing or dead in the disaster. Less serious indictments were issued against the 11 other crew members responsible for navigating the vessel.

Capt. Lee Joon-seok and the other homicide defendants — a first mate, a second mate and the chief engineer — could face the death penalty if convicted, according to the Supreme Court, though no one has been executed in South Korea since 1997.

The 11 others were indicted

for alleged negligence and abandoning passengers in need when the ship sank on April 16, according to prosecutors.

The indictment was filed Thursday in Gwangju District Court and a trial date will be decided in a few days, according to a court official who requested anonymity due to department rules. The official said all 15 defendants are expected to be tried together.

The indicted crew members were among the first group of people rescued when the Sewol began badly listing, and all were arrested last month.

Lee initially told passengers to stay in their cabins and took about half an hour to issue an evacuation order but it’s not

known if his message was ever conveyed to passengers.

In a video taken by the coast guard, he was seen escaping the ferry in his underwear to a rescue boat while many passengers were still in the sinking ship.

Lee told reporters after his arrest last month that he withheld the evacuation order because rescuers had yet to arrive and he feared for the passengers’ safety in the cold, swift water.

The head of the ferry’s owner, Chonghaejin Marine Co. Ltd., and four other company employees have also been arrested. Authorities suspect improper stowage and overloading of cargo may have contributed to the disaster.

gers who confronted the hijackers.

Before the ceremony, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama toured the museum, viewing a memorial wall with photos of victims and a mangled fire truck.

They were joined by Mr Bloomberg, former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Along with the nearby memorial plaza, the New York city museum cost $700m (£418m) in donations and public money.

The museum, not far from the original site of the World Trade Center, is largely underground.

It will be fully open to the public on 21 May. PUBLIC NOTICE OGUNDILE

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogundile, Oluwaseun Olusola now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Daramola, Oluwaseun Olusola.

All former documents remain valid. General public, please note.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public of the loss of an international passport NO 126109 belonging to MR.MOHMOUD EL-CHEIK TALEB ABDUL RAHMAN (Palestinian) OF IRON OX METAL WORKS LIMITED PORT- HACOURT. All effort made to trace it prove abortive. If found please contact the above address or call 08033390222, 08088869999 or the nearest Police Station.

NEWS CHIBOK GIRLS’ ABDUCTION

ACF alleges hidden agenda against North Continued from page 4

feeble and half-hearted.

“The President hardly ever took action until he came under pressure to do so from people outside his government. The mounting pressure from local and international communities is now compelling him to talk of deploying more troops to confront the Boko Haram insurgents. His belated acceptance of help from foreign powers had come only after the abduction of over 200 young girls, stirring worldwide outrage.

“Under the circumstances, it is not difficult to understand why people ask in frustration, why the President acts the way he does.

Is it the result of inexperience, poor advice or, as some observers say, certain hidden agenda against a section of the country?

“Whatever is the reason, the people of Nigeria have a right to demand from their President to execute the duties of his office without fear or favour – in accordance with the oath of office to which he had sworn. As

it is, President Goodluck Jonathan stands in violation of that oath.”

The Forum warned against extending the state of emergency imposed on three states of the northeast – Borno, Yobe and Adamawa - stressing that casualty figures since the introduction has sky-rocketed rather than reduce.

The ACF went on: “We caution that the request before the National Assembly to approve the extension of the year-long state of emergency declared in the Northeast states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa be considered against its impact so far, which can only be described as disastrous. Before the State of Emergency was declared in the three states, between 2009 and 2012, the total causalities of the insurgency were less than 1,500.

“But this figure sky-rocketed to over 2,700 during the one year of the emergency, according to figures released by Amnesty International. During the emergency rule, Boko Haram had at-

tacked and destroyed large swathe of areas in the Northeast, including 18 towns and cities, not counting schools, mosques and churches.

“It is not clear to the public why the violence has been escalating since the imposition of the state of emergency on those three states. If we counsel against the continuation of the emergency rule, we are only being guided by our ugly experiences thus far.

“And, at any rate, the Federal Government does not need to declare a state of emergency before it can discharge its responsibility of maintaining law and order. Otherwise, it may need to declare a state of emergency on the whole country at this time, given the state of lawlessness going on in the North, South, West and East regions of the country.

“It remains to be added that a majority of Nigerians, Muslims and Christians, accept that the Boko Haram insurgency is a fight against the whole country

without regard to religion or ethnicity. However, there is a small vocal minority who erroneously claim otherwise.

“It is on record that almost all locations attacked by Boko Haram are populated by mostly Muslims who are invariably the main victims. We should never forget that Boko Haram will be over-joyed to discover that their activities are causing suspicion, animosity and even conflict among Muslims and Christians in the country. We must deny them that victory.

“The government has earlier announced that it is considering all options available in rescuing the abducted Chibok girls. That includes, presumably, the Boko Haram’s offer to release the girls in exchange for the release of their own members in detention.

It is imperative that the government exercises caution in handling these options. It has to be stressed that the safety and freedom of these hapless girls must be the overriding consideration.”

fire some shots into the air.

“The situation was quickly brought under control and normalcy restored as there was calm in the cantonment and all normal operational activities are ongoing.”

He added that “the inquiry will come out with exact situation of things based on which the military authorities will take next action.’’

He added: “The GOC has been redeployed based on the decision of the headquarters.’

“The GOC or his aides were not wounded during the incident. “Let me say again that

nobody was injured. ” Gen Olukolade promised that the redeployment of the GOC would not affect the ongoing anti-terrorism war of the Nigerian military. “Let me assure that the military will sustain the current tempo in the fight against insurgents.

“The training of the Nigeria Army is such that this kind of change will not affect negatively the disposition of the troops in the fight against agents of insurgency in the country.

“The Nigerian Army is poised to uphold its principle

of discipline and loyalty to service. The ongoing inquiry will provide a lasting solution to what happened on May 13.

“It is not in the character of Nigerian soldier to be unruly.

“It is true the soldiers raised many issues of concern annoying them. Indeed, the issues raised are being looked into but the media should distance itself from the issue of mutiny. It is deadly and unecessary at this trying time.

“These are new soldiers who are just coming into town and they have not been well documented yet, so they had

Reps okay emergency extension Continued from page 4

which failed to vote on it.

The Upper Chamber unanimously resolved to difer its consideration of the request.

It, however, invited Minister of Defence Aliyu Gusau, Col. Dasuki, Minister of Police Affairs Abduljelili Adesiyan, Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to appear before senators today.

Although the request was listed for debate on the order paper, Senate Leader Victor Ndoma-Egba moved a motion that it be deferred till today.

Ndoma-Egba said the Senate could only debate the proclamation of a state of emergency after it has been gazetted and copies of the gazette circulated to all senators.

He said the Senate would also require adequate briefing from the security agencies in camera on the progress of the ongoing emergency rule, which has been

in place since May last year, before proceeding with the consideration.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the session, described the motion as “a very serious business which bothers on the security of a part of this country “.

Ekweremadu said the Senate need to be “well informed of the situation on ground and the efficiency or the effectiveness of the state of emergency in the past 12 months to enable us take a proper decision”.

“I, therefore, appeal that in accordance with the motion moved by the Senate Leader, we should step it down till another legislative day.”

Senator James Manager, who seconded the motion said: “It is important to invite the Service Chiefs but since they were under some authorities, I want to amend the motion as proposed by the Senate Leader by adding two very important persons.

“First the National Security Adviser, the Minister of Defence and the Minister of Police Affairs.”

Maimalari barracks shooting: Army redeploys 7 Division GOC

Continued from page 4

Speaking to reporters in Maiduguri, Gen. Olukolade said that “the commanding officer of the 101 Battalion had actually gone to Abuja for a course and could not have deliberately refused to pay their allowances”.

“The General Officer Commanding (GOC) was touched by the incident, so he wanted to sympathise with the troops by addressing those present; in the process, some soldiers became unruly and began to

to wait for their commander to fix up certain things for them to get their operational allowance,” he said.

According to Gen. Olukolade, one officer and five soldiers died in the ambush, which took place at Telwa and it was in the process of bringing the dead to the hospital that about 50 officers who saw their bodies insisted that the GOC should address the soldiers.

“Just when he tried to address them having gone to the hospital to see the injured and

the dead, they went on a shooting spree and the man had to go into his vehicle and leave the place.

On whether the former GOC was squandering the allowances of the soldiers as alleged, Gen. Olukolade said it was not possible to do that as he did not have custody of funds.

On renumeration and terminal benefits of soldiers, he said two insurance policies by the army and Defence added to benevolent and death benefits fund had been earmarked for soldiers.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

61

NEWS

•Director-General and Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Land Matters, Mr. Wale Oshinowo (middle) speaking at the 2014 ministerial press briefing to mark the third year anniversary of Governor Ibikunle Amosun at the Governor’s office Press Centre, Oke-Mosan Abeokuta. With him are Director for Land Ratification, Bureau of Lands, Mr. Fatai Adeboye (left) and Director of Production Services in the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mrs. Olubunmi Odumosi •Officiating clerics during the christening of Bengamin Ayomikolopin Eritomiwa Rotimi Williams Akinadewo, son of the Managing Director/Editorin-Chief of New Telegraph, Gabbriel Akinadewo, at Restoration Parish, Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide, Akute, Ogun State...on Tuesday

•Continued from Back Page Chibok as waterloo and epiphany: Not even the Boko Haram insurgents will be the same again after Chibok. As at last Monday, they were already raising a white flag.

For the first time since they took this path of madness, they have initiated a peace deal seeking to swap prisoners for the abductees.

As the whole world encircles them, they must have realised that evil has no hiding

Our Chibok epiphany place when there is a concert of efforts by the good. Now that we are at it, we must totally rid ourselves of these irritants, these fiends from hell.

We must reclaim our country from James Town in AkwaIbom to Bosso on the northmost tip of Borno; from Badagry in Lagos to BirninKonni in Sokoto. We must regroup. It is salutary that

prominent northern voices like Mohammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida and the Sultan of Sokoto, who had hitherto been squeamish and un-resolute in condemning the rascals, are speaking up.

We must seize the momentum of the current upwelling of support from the world to work out our rebirth. We must ensure that this foreign

intervention is a clean-andgo effort. Most important, and more threatening than Boko Haram, we must resolve our urgent and present 2015 political logjam. We may yet forge a formidable black nation if we imbibe this Chibok spirit. We just might find our rebirth, our epiphany…after we have brought back the girls.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

63

TODAY IN THE NATION

FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

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HEREAS when a child stumbles he or she looks forward in the direction of his or her journey, an adult in a similar situation looks backward. While the child is in a hurry to get to his or her destination, the adult takes time to see the obstacle that causes him or her to stumble. Taking note of the obstacle enables the adult to avoid it should it be encountered again in the course of the journey. The child in a hurry lacks the capacity to avoid the future occurrence of a fall and thus may not achieve the objective of reaching his or her destination. The wisdom in the observation belongs to the elders.

The ongoing confab is an occasion for looking back in search of the cause of an embarrassing national stumble. Where did the rain start beating us? And as rational beings, we are expected to remove the stumbling blocks that have tragically littered our path to nationhood. For if we fail to look back and identify those obstacles, and we continue on the same path, we are most probably not going to reach that destination of national greatness.

Not a few would affirm that the stumbling block had been there right from the beginning of the journey of this creature of circumstance. The initiative wasn’t from within. Folks didn’t get together to declare an interest in common citizenship. The idea was someone else’s but we have read into it a divine blessing. As J. S. Coleman, the preeminent biographer of Nigerian nationalism, sums it up, the British are the sole creators of the political entity known as Nigeria.

Coleman goes on to support his “elementary truth” with quotable quotes by two of the leading political icons of the new political entity, Obafemi Awolowo and Tafawa Balewa in 1947 and 1948 respectively. While Awolowo’s reference to Nigeria as a mere geographical entity is the more popular and better analysed of the two, Balewa’s is no less frank and incisive.

According to Balewa, “Nigerian people themselves are historically different in their backgrounds, in their religious beliefs and customs and do not show themselves any sign of willingness to unite.” And he goes on to declare that “Nigerian unity is only a British intention for the country.”

The British wanted a united Nigeria; they knew that it would take a long time for this to be achieved (some of them suggested a century at least); but then they did little to move the idea forward from 1914 to 1960

VOL.9 NO.2850

‘The time has come for Nigerians to stand up and say enough is enough to bad leadership and selfish counsels from disgruntled past rulers capitalising on the madness of the moment...’

MOBOLAJI SANUSI

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Looking back…and moving forward

•Justice Idris Kutigi

when they left a country completely divided along the original fissures of language and religion. If a united Nigeria was the objective of Britain, why did she pursue a policy of regional development and cultural autonomy?

It turns out that Britain was not being deceptive or malicious, and the unity that His Majesty’s Government (at the time) wanted for Nigeria was based on the English conception of nationalism which accommodates a hierarchy of loyalties, “each supreme in its own sphere and all perfectly “natural,” because all are “traditional.” This is the Burkean concept of nationalism, according to

Coleman, citing Carlton Hayes. It then makes sense that Britain did not see any contradiction in the goal of promoting national unity and encouraging cultural and linguistic autonomy. Here is Hayes on Burke: “Man is and should be loyal to his family and to his locality or “region”; “regionalism” is traditional and hence natural, and the nation should respect and foster it as a necessary preliminary to love of an extensive country or nationality.”

In his remark on his approval of the proposals of the Nigerian General Conference on the Constitution of 1950, James Griffiths, then Secretary of State for the Colonies stressed “how much importance I attach to the principle of regional autonomy. One of the great advantages of encouraging the regions to develop each along its own characteristic lines will be that by that very process the unity of Nigeria will be strengthened.” Of note is that in his judgment, such an approach does not threaten the unity of the country; it in fact enhances it.

The question, then, is this: where and why did we veer off the path of regional autonomy?

It should be noted that from the onset, not all nationalists were in favor of such an approach. While the North stood out in favor of regionalism and was supported by the colonial masters, the South was initially suspicious of the intent. This was especially because many southern nationalists believed that the British policy was intent on protecting the North and promoting its isolation from the rest of the country.

Despite these initial reservations, however, regionalism prevailed and devolution of power to the regions was the highlight of the constitutions from Richards and

Macpherson to the Independence Constitution.

We stumbled at the point where we pronounced the wrong verdict on regionalism and indicted it of culpable responsibility for national disunity. We sacrificed cultural autonomy in the elusive search for unity even when we sloganise about unity in diversity.

The choice before the delegates to the National Conference is not just then about revenue allocation or political representation.

It is less about state creation or rotational presidency. It is about reemphasising the importance of unity in diversity and empowering every culture and language to blossom.

In the decades before and up until 1960 the nation made a giant stride in educational and cultural development. Our schools taught English alongside indigenous languages and other subjects. Students developed good skills in oral and written English as well as in indigenous languages. That era produced our only Nobel Laureate in English Literature.

Since the end of the civil war, however, subsequent governments have moved farther and farther away from regional and cultural autonomy to a more uniformitarian idea of the polity. And we have been the worse for it in every respect. Education is in the tank. Economy is in shambles. Culture is in decline. Crime is in ascendancy. And religious conflict is the norm. How is it so difficult then to see where and why we stumbled?

That our conferees still bicker over insignificant issues is regrettable. While it is true that there are many challenges that the country faces, it is also true that an overriding one is our departure from the path of a true federal system, in which as Chief Awolowo, its chief proponent, puts it, “each group, however small, is entitled to the same treatment as any other group, however large” and “opportunity must be afforded to each to evolve its own peculiar political institution.”

It is time to restore the regions, enable small linguistic groups to form regional units, allow regional constitutions alongside the national constitution, encourage healthy competition among regions and, yes, promote national security by promoting regional and local security with the decentralisation of security operations and involving regions and communities in the security of their peoples.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

W

OULD Chibok be Nigeria’s epiphany? Is this our moment of illumination? What would this violent de-flowering of Nigeria by this Chibok phenomenon portend for us all?

What auguries would it herald? What on earth is Chibok? What is her metaphysics?

Where on earth is Chibok? You may never find it on any map; hardly more than a few hundred people had heard about Chibok before April 15, the day Boko Haram terrorist invaded a girls’ school in Chibok in the dead of night and herded away over 200 teenage girls. Since then and as each day dawned, Chibok, a small town in the eastern-most end of Borno State, northeast of Nigeria, near the Cameroun border has become a cause célèbre for the people of the world.

The Chibok anthologies: Chibok literally caught fire before our eyes. More than 30 days on as confusion reigned over the number and whereabouts of the abducted Chibok girls, the entire world is roused as one in strident demand for their rescue.

The world went Chiboky, so to speak, thanks to Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili and others who launched the #Bringbackourgirls protests in rain and in shine; the peoples of the world have never been united on any single issue like this for a long time.

Chibok took a global life of its own becoming an anthology of tales. Let us review some of the themes: Chibok unfrocked: Chibok is an unmapped little place near the far, right

STEVE OSUJI

EXPRESSO

steve.osuji@yahoo.com

Our Chibok epiphany hand end on Nigeria’s map; near the verdant tropical forests that spreads wildly into the Cameroun mountains. Did you ever think such a place would be the abode of such a well-appointed, all-girls school with such large number of students who are predominantly Christians? If Chibok graduates over 200 high school girls, imagine the total number of teenagers Nigeria churns out from secondary schools nationwide yearly?

Does that say something about the latent greatness of this enclave called Nigeria?

Marvel at how a modicum of quality leadership could transform this country into a global powerhouse in a very short time. Why don’t we elect to discover the little Chiboks in our small towns and villages and build them into international brands? But not by default as Borno’s Chibok has turned out but by careful planning and painstaking execution.

Chibok as a de-mystifier: Chibok also unfrocked the presidency and exposed its huge, bare backside to a bewildered world; prompting the world to dash down to Nigeria in a rush, seeking to cover our nakedness. Chibok is the shame of the modern world, a testimony of how a country could fall on its face and break to pieces in a twinkle of an eye if the world did not move to steady it. A band of miscreants was on the verge of hijacking the sovereignty of a big, bumbling country but for the world community. Who could tell what might have been in another fortnight had Nigeria been left to her wiles – an implosion?

It is a cliffhanger of an irony that Chibok is Nigeria’s new day shame and her saving grace: had the Chibok girls not been taken, Nigeria would have continued to trudge inexorably down the cliff; she was indeed poised to drift to her utter destruction. This

abduction must be a divine act in our sovereignty script in which some foreign powers would para-shoot into the country and save us from local thugs hard on gunning down our nationhood. Now that the U.S., U.K., France, China, Israel (and who else?) is here to chase back the dusty insurgents, it plays up another sweet irony: to the effect that you have to be deflowered in order to begin to enjoy sex. Foreign military/security experts are foraging our land and turning us inside out so that we may live.

Even one month after the Chibok quagmire, a pusillanimous presidency has continued to lumber; suffused in utter confusion and lethargy, there was no deterrence to attacks just as there was no urgent pursuit of hoodlums. And no apparent coordinated intelligence trail in the wake of the abduction. Up until recently, the president was on national television appealing to parents of the girls to help government find the abductors. Not to be left out of the drama, the wife of the president plebified a national calamity with her comical performance also on national television. To think that no formal bilateral alliances were forged all these years of Boko Haram torment; to think that the National Security Adviser (NSA) was reportedly paying millions of dollars to some phony U.S. lobbyist trying to reach the White House through the back door…

•Continued on 61

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