The Nation Thursday 23, 2013 by The Nation

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Private jet owners get new operation rules

•FEC endorses aviation policy

NEWS

Page 9

Ondo ACN appeals tribunal’s verdict NEWS

•Olujimi files 39 legal grounds

Page 53

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VOL. 8, NO. 2494 THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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INSIDE: Chinualumogu Albert Achebe (1930 - 2013) A 16-PAGE COMMEMORATIVE PULLOUT...AND MORE

EMERGENCY RULE IN YOBE, BORNO, ADAMAWA

Jonathan’s power to seize funds upsets governors From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

Baba Lakyo: I didn’t kill security men

HE full implications of the state of emergency in three states have been laid bare, creating anxiety among the North’s governors. The proclamation by President Goodluck Jonathan has turned the governors into mere puppets, critics said yesterday. Besides, it allows the President to hold the states’ funds. The governors cannot perform official functions unless in accordance with directives given to them by the President, his designate or any authorised person. Also, the House of Assembly may perform skeletal roles because any Order made under the emergency is assumed to be a law enacted by the House of Assembly. The Emergency Powers (General) Regulations, 2013 contained in an official gazette was made available to the National Assembly on Monday. Although democratic structures have been retained, the regulations have caged the governors who are expected to defer to r e s i d e n t The President PJonathan on their may, make such functions. Some Northern Orders as apand pear to him to governors leaders are said to be necessary be uncomfortable to... provide for with some secof the gathe utilisation tions zette. of the funds of It was learnt that the crippling of any State or governors inLocal Govern- the formed the deciment in the sion of the House emergency area of Representatives

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When they came, because they were themselves drunk, my god did not allow them to come to me and they died on the way

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Continued on page 2

•Agu...yesterday

HE Spiritual Head of Lakyo community in Nasarawa State, Ala Agu, yesterday denied having a hand in the killing of securitymen in the community. Governor Umaru Tanko AlMakura should be blamed for the killings, he asserted. Agu also said contrary to reports that he was on the run, he was yet to receive any police invitation for questioning over the unfortunate incident.. Agu, spoke through Allu Maga, an interpreter. He noted that the governor sent armed policemen and other security operatives to Lakyo to kill him over an issue he knew nothing about. The spiritual head spoke when Senator Solomon Ewuga (Nasarawa North) toured Lakyo community in company of other community leaders. No fewer than 56 security men, including 46 policemen and 10 State Security operatives, were on May 7 killed in an ambush.

’

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Abuja

Many others were declared missing, but a recent report said 25 bodies of the missing policemen were discovered in a mass grave in the area. This has not been denied. The security men were on their way from Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, to arrest members of the Ombatse militia who were reportedly committing atrocities. Agu insisted that he did not know how the security operatives died. He said he was informed that the operatives were instructed to kill him. He also claimed that he never forced anybody to be initiated into the Ombatse cultural group. He said: “I am grateful for your coming, Senator. I am very, very grateful for your Continued on page 2

Soldiers leak tactics to Boko Haram, says Chief of Army Staff

Amaechi, Shema pick NGF poll forms

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

ARELY 24 hours to the election of a new chairman for the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), there appears to be a crack in the camp of the group opposed to the reelection of Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi. Katsina State Governor Ibrahim Shema yesterday defied pressure on him to step down for Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda. Shema yesterday collected the nomination form to challenge Amaechi for the NGF chair. Amaechi also picked the nomination form. Yuguda, who is yet to submit his nomination form, spent a greater part of Wednesday

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

ISLOYAL soldiers were warned yesterday to stop fraternising with enemies of the state. Some military men have been leaking information to the Boko Haram insurgents, who the military are battling in three Northeast states. Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, who issued the warning, revealed that the attack on a Mali-bound military convoy in Kogi State early this year followed the leakContinued on page 2

•Skye Bank Plc Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Kehinde Durosimi-Etti, speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the Bank in Lagos...yesterday. With him are the Chairman, Mr. Olatunde Ayeni and the Executive Director, Treasury International Operations, Southeast, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu

Continued on page 2

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS Amaechi, Shema pick NGF poll forms Continued from page 1

•Newly Appointed Judges of the National Industrial Court, during their swearing-in by Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Aloma Mariam PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE Mukhtar, at the Supreme Court, in Abuja...yesterday.

I didn’t kill security men, says Baba Lakyo Agu, spiritual head of Lakyo

Continued from page 1

coming. Even if the Senator did not come here, I had intended to go and see him in his house but since he is here, I am very grateful. “It is the governor that asked the people (Police officers) to come here and arrest me, cut my head and take my head to him. “When they came, because they were themselves drunk, my god did not allow them to come to me and they died on the way. “The question I ask is, has the governor ever invited me and I refused to go? But he sent people to come and kill me and to destroy Lakyo as a whole. That is just what it is.” Agu noted that he was in a nearby village when the incident took place. He said he was only informed that the governor sent operatives to kill him. Asked whether the incident has anything to do with politics, he said: “If you are talking about politics, it does not bother me. “I don’t even understand Hausa

IS appearance did not strike any fear. Yet the man sitting comfortably on a threeseater in front of reporters has a larger than life image. Ala Agu, the Spiritual Head of the Lakyo Community (not Alakyo), where 56 security operatives were killed, looked like any other villager. His beards were trimmed short and snow-white. His eyes looked closed as if he was asleep. He told reporters that he had no hand in the killing of the security men who were said to have been ambushed on their way from Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, to Lakyo to arrest him. Baba Lakyo’s mud house has a tiny gate.

language. Politics is not for me because I am not a politician. Politics is for politicians but I hear that the time for politicking has not even come.” On the claim that he was using force to administer concoction on people to become members of the Ombatse group, Agu said: “If I ever opened my mouth to force anybody to take oath, God should

consulting on why he should emerge as a consensus candidate. Many governors yesterday relocated to Abuja for lastminute consultations. Investigation by our correspondent revealed that some members of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday invited Shema to a meeting in Asokoro District to persuade him to step down for Yuguda. It was gathered that the BoT members tried to make Shema to realise that the presidency is now disposed to Yuguda as a neutral candidate. Although Shema did not make any commitment, he decided to be his own man by obtaining the chairmanship election form. A highly-placed source said: “Shema has shunned pressure to step down for Yuguda contrary to the permutations of those desperate to remove Amaechi. The politics of 2015 has also set in among Northern governors

He wore three rings on his left hand’s fingers and did not betray any fear, despite his being declared wanted by the police. A few metres from his house were about eight burnt vehicles – the signs of the May 7 security mission that ended in a fiasco. The village has few mud houses. At the entrance of Lakyo community, residents welcomed visitors excitedly. They looked innocent, warm and calm. There are few houses, most of which are of mud. It is mostly open farm land; no sign of government presence. Lakyo lacks electricity, pipe-borne water and has only one primary school that belongs to United Baptist Church.

punish me.” He described Ombatse as an association of Lakyo boys, to which nobody is forced to belong. The spiritual head said he was ready to honour any police invitation over the issue but insisted that nobody has invited him. He expressed sadness over the death of the security men, adding that it was even more sad-

dening that he was being linked to the incident, especially when he knew nothing about what happened to the operatives. The President of Eggon Cultural Development Association, Mr. Chris E. Mamman, said the only way to get at the root of what happened was for the Federal Government to set up a judicial commission of enquiry.

“I think those backing Shema believe that if he wins the NGF chairmanship poll, he can be in the best position to vie for the Office of Vice-President in 2015. They have therefore advised him not to step down. “The post Vice-President Namadi Sambo’ s politics has started and it will shape the NGF election too.” Responding to a question, another source added: “The challenge before the forces in the presidency is how to prevail on Shema to give up his ambition fr Yuguda. “This last-minute accord is delaying Yuguda from obtaining nomination form. If Shema remains adamant, they might ask Yuguda to forego his aspiration to lead the NGF. “So, you can see that there is a problem in the presidency’s camp. The crack could lead to protest vote with neither Shema nor Yuguda winning the poll.” An official of the NGF secretariat simply said: “Only governors Amaechi and Shema have obtained nomination forms. But the nomination form’s collection has not closed.”

‘Soldiers leak tactics to Boko Haram’

•Gen. Ihejirika Continued from page 1

ing of information on their movement to the insurgents. Two soldiers were killed after the ambush on 190 troops who were travelling through Kogi State enroute Kaduna on their way to Mali on January 19.

Factional Boko Haram group Ansaru claimed responsibility for the attack. Gen. Ihejirika said a suspect, who is a soldier, is in detention, waiting for court martial in connection with the leakage. Gen. Ihejirika, spoke yesterday at the opening ceremony of a three-day Army Transformation Seminar in Abuja. The theme is: “Building Capacity of the Nigerian Army to meet Contemporary Challenges”. The military chief said: “Let me use this opportunity to warn officers and soldiers who indulge in giving out information both from Army Headquarters and other formations. Continued on page 6

Emergency rule: Governors lose all powers to Jonathan Emergency Powers Act

Continued from page 1

to curb the powers of the President under the state of emergency. The House and the Senate are to harmonise their differences on the issue. The Senate adopted the regulations wholesale on Tuesday. A governor, who spoke in confidence, said: “There are landmines in the regulations, which a despotic president could take advantage of to remove a sitting governor or render a governor redundant. “Some of us are worried that our colleagues in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe would not be able to exercise their executive functions. Even the Houses of Assembly in the three states cannot make laws because emergency order is assumed to have the status of an enacted law. “With the political tension towards 2015 election, the President can invoke these regulations under emergency rule in any state.” “Two of the three states are being controlled by the opposition. Going by the attitude of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the governors can be in servitude for as long as the emergency lasted,” the source said. Governors of the North are to meet today to review the regulations and reach out to the National Assembly.

EMERGENCY POWERS (GENERAL) REGULATIONS, 2013 [20th day of May, 2013] WHEREAS pursuant to the provisions of Section 305 (1), (3) (c), (d) and (f) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has declared that a State of Emergency exists in the States listed in the Schedule to these Regulations: NOW THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me by Section 3 of the Emergency Powers Act, No. 1 of 1961 (as modified) and of other powers enabling me in that behalf, I, DR. GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, hereby make the following Regulations1. In these Regulations unless the context otherwise requires___ “duly authorized person” means any person designated or authorized to act on behalf of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with respect to the administration of any emergency area ; and “emergency area” means that States listed in the Schedule of these Regulations including the Local Government Areas of the States. 2.__(1) A State Governor in an emergency area shall continue with the general functions of administering the emergency area under the control of the President or an person designated or autho-

“There is no point preserving democratic structures only in name,” another source said, who added: “Northern leaders are in support of addressing the insurgency but the emergency regulations are laced with political booby traps. The governors have become dummies; they cannot

rized to act on his behalf (2) A Local Government Chairman in an emergency area shall continue with the general functions of administering the emergency area under the control of the President or any person designated or authorized to act on his behalf (3)The President may give directions to a State Governor or Local Government Chairman directly or through his designate or a duly authorized person with respect to the administration of the emergency area and it shall be the duty of the State Governor or Local Government Chairman to comply with the directive 3.__(1)The President may, make such Orders as appear to him to be necessary or expedient for the purpose of maintaining and securing peace, public order, public safety and good governance in the emergency area. (2)Any Order made under sub-regulation (1) of this Regulation may in particular, if it appears to the President to be necessary or expedient for the purpose mentioned in the sub-regulation – (a) make provision for the detention of any person either within the emergency area or elsewhere, removal and exclusion of any person from the emergency area; (b)authorize the taking of possession or control of any property or undertaking in the emergency area; (c) authorize the entry and search of any premises;

do anything because they are not in control. “For instance, the President can delegate his authority to any person in an emergency area where there is a sitting governor. In spite of the constitutional proclamation of Nigeria as a Federation, the Emergency Regulations allow the

(d) provide for the application of any law (with or without modification), in relation to that area; (e) provide for the utilization of the funds of any State or Local Government in the emergency area; (f) provide for the payment of compensation and remuneration to persons affected by the Order; (g) provide for the apprehension, trials and punishment of persons offending against the Order; and (h) provide for the maintenance of such applies and services as the President considers essential to the lives of persons in the emergency area. (3) Nothing in sub-regulation (2) of this regulation shall authorize the making of provisions for the trial of a person by military courts. (4) An Order made under these Regulations may provide that the Order shall have effect for all purposes as if it were a law made by the House of Assembly of the State of the emergency area concerned. (5) The President shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after an Order has been made under these Regulations, transmit a copy of the Order to each House of the Assembly for approval and if the National Assembly disallows the Order, it shall cease to have effect without prejudice to anything done there under. 4. Subject to the provisions of subsection (3) of section 215 of the Constitution

President to have access to the funds of the three states. “Also, the commissioners of police in the three affected states are only expected to take directives from the President and not the governor. So, technically, the three governors are no longer the chief security officers of their states during

of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 and of any direction given in pursuance of that subsection, a person designated or authorized by the President may give the Commissioner of Police in the emergency area such directions with respect to the maintenance of security, public safety and order as the person considers expedient and it shall be the duty of the Commissioner of Police to comply with the directions. 5. It shall be the duty of any person holding office ___ (a) as Governor in any of the emergency States; (b) as Local Government Chairman in any of the Local Government Areas in the affected States; or (c) in the public service of the State in the emergency area within the meaning of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999; to exercise their functions in accordance with any directions given to them by the President, his designate or any authorized person. 6. Any instrument purported to be signed by the President, his designate or a person authorized by him shall until contrary is proved, be deemed to be signed by the President, his designate or the authorized person. 7. These Regulations may be cited as the Emergency Power (General) Regulations, 2013.

the emergency period.” A principal officer in the House of Representatives, who spoke in confidence, said: “Having observed the lacuna in the regulations, we have raised a team to meet at the joint conference with the Senate. We were not carried away Continued on page 6

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS CHINUALUMOGU ALBERT ACHEBE (1930 --2013)

Achebe ‘the eagle on the In Ogidi, a rustic settlement near Onitsha, Anambra State, the remains of one of Africa’s greatest literary minds, Prof. Chinua Achebe, will be interred, closing a chapter of a memorable and unforgettable life, writes EVELYN OSAGIE

ITERARY icon and scholar Prof. Chinua Achebe makes a final return home today in Ogidi, Anambra State. The story of his eventful life began in Nnobi, not far from Ogidi, where people from all walks of life will gather this morning to bid him a farewell after a weeklong funeral activities. He died on March 21. He was 82. At a Night of Tributes organised at the International Conference Centre, Abuja on May 20 many reflected on his life, literary works and beliefs. It was organised by the Chinua Achebe National Transition Committee, whose coordinator, Prof. Uzodinma Nwala, said: “The world is not mourning Achebe’s death; the world is celebrating his transition from the world of flesh to the world of immortal spirits, where he rightly belongs. Achebe was a profound academic professor of languages, literature and African studies, the quintessential, literary icon of superlative brilliance, merit and repute. “He was a social critic of honest and unparalleled courage, of singleness of purpose and steadfastness of conduct.’’ A U.S-based scholar Prof. Michael Telwell said the late Achebe shaped the African consciousness. He said his writing elevated his culture and lifted his people. The President of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Prof. Remi Raji, urged the Federal Government to retrieve the original script of Things Fall Apart which he said, was allegedly taken away to Cameroon by a scholar in 2008. Representative of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Mrs Hazzana Aliduo said the organisation would immortalise the late Achebe by working with ANA to translate his books into several languages. She said: “We believe in UNESCO that works of our giants such as that of Achebe should be documented and translated into

•Obi, Ngige and Anambra State Deputy Governor Emeka Sibedu paying their last respects to the late Achebe in Awka...yesterday.

Mourners pay tributes to ‘a man of the people’ •FRSC deploys 250 marshals, 20 vehicles for funeral

HE remains of the late Prof. Chinualumogu Achebe arrived in his country home in Ogidi at 4:44pm yesterday. The body was brought in a motorcade after a lying-in-state at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the Anambra State capital. It was received by the traditional title holders in Ogidi led by Chief Gozie Okafor and President General of the Ogidi Town Union, Dr. Eric Obiakor. They took turns to pay their tributes to the late Achebe. The late Achebe was once a president general of the union and a titled chief. President Goodluck Jonathan is expected this morning to lead many dignitaries, including three other presidents to pay their last respects to the late icon. Senator Uche Chukwumerije , Bishop Alex Ibezim of Awka Anglican Diocese, members of the State Executive Council, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Obaze Oseleoka, Senator Mohammed Magoro , traditional rulers of 177 communities in Anambra led by Igwe Kenneth Orizu of Nnewi paid tributes to the late Achebe. Igwe Laz Ekwueme spoke on behalf of the traditional rulers. The president of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) , Prof. Remi Raji, said he was short of words to describe the late literary icon. Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Prof Boniface Egboka described the late Achebe as an emblem of integrity. He said UNIZIK had lost a mentor and a pathfinder. The institution, he said, had instituted an annual lecture in honour of the late Achebe. He urged the state and federal governments to immortalise the late literary giant. Celebrated author Prof. Chukwuemeka Ike said the late Achebe became great not through any corrupt practices, not through politics or looting of public treasury but by dint of hard work. He praised those who participated in the funeral of the late icon, especially Anambra State Governor Peter Obi. Leader of the Otu Suwakwa Igbo Initiative Prof. Pita Ejiofor, who spoke in Igbo, said the late Achebe had no equal, adding that there was none like him in this part of the world. He added that the late Achebe’s works shook the world. He encouraged other writers to emulate the late Achebe’s promotion of Igbo language and culture or their native languages which can easily be accessible by others from other cultures.’’ Vice-Chancellor University of Nigeria, Nsukka Prof. Bartho Okolo, said the late Achebe showed the light for other writers. Okolo said: “He not only opened

the path, but he literally led people by the hand through his editorship of the African Writers Series and his work with Okike, a journal the University of Nigeria. “Prof. Achebe was one of the academic titans whose presence on the faculty served as a beacon of light

From Evelyn Osagie, Nwanosike Onu, Awka and Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

language for sake of posterity. At the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, no fewer than 2,000 people gathered to see the body, including former Minister of Education Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, who wept. She said her father was fond of using the late Achebe as a symbol of true Igboness. Obi said: ''Achebe is the symbol of true African spirit. We have been here for hours in honour of Achebe showing our spirit because this is not a political gathering that you will say that people are paid for but a selfless gathering of people to honour one of their own. ''All we are doing today is praising the man we are gathered here for and we are having condolences from over 12 Presidents, showing how great our hero Achebe was because some others would die and nobody would notice.” Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Wellby, represented by Prof. Andrew Wheeller, said the late Achebe's history of Africa changed his perception of Africa. Some mourners dressed in shirts bearing his portrait, while local chiefs wore traditional red caps common among Igbo. The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has deployed 250 officers and men to ensure free flow of traffic at today’s ceremony. FRSC Sector Commander in Anambra, Mr Uchenna Omeje, told NAN in Onitsha that the command had also mobilised 20 vehicles and a heavy duty towing truck for the funeral. Omeje said the commission would also station an ambulance in Ogidi to respond to any health emergency. He said: “So far, we have been able to go to Ogidi to map out the routes regarding where we need to close. There are some areas we need to close, there are areas we need to divert traffic and all those things. Then, of course, we are going to mobilise all our personnel even those in administrative section out tomorrow and of course on Friday to ensure that we have adequate presence on the road for ease of traffic flow. There is no cause for alarm; all the adjoining roads to Ogidi will be well manned.” that drew the world to the University of Nigeria. He taught at the Department of English as well as carried out research at the Institute of African Studies.’’ Anambra State Governor Peter Obi said Africa had lost a worthy son, who lived his life without los-

ing his African identity. Obi said the late Achebe used his writing to free the oppressed. Obi said the late Achebe always defended the black race. Former governor of Anambra and now a Senator, Dr. Chris Ngige, said the late author was a

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS CHINUALUMOGU ALBERT ACHEBE (1930 --2013)

Iroko’ goes home today Elegy for a nation Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka wrote a long poem to the late Prof. Chinua Achebe when he turned 70 a little over 12 years ago. He authorised its reproduction today as his ‘parting tribute to Chinua’ whose remains will be buried today in Ogidi, Anambra State. Prof. Soyinka said the tribute is ‘my way of taunting death, by pursuing that cultural, creative, even political communion that unites all writers with a divided vision of the possible— and even beyond the grave’. Below are excerpts from the poem:

•A cross-section of Anambra State traditional rulers at the lying-in-state for the late Achebe in Awka....yesterday.

•The late Achebe

determined person who kept writing on his beliefs, even on his wheelchair. The Night of Tributes also witnessed the readings of tributes from President Goodluck Jonathan and Prof. Wole Soyinka and John Pep-

per-Clark Soyinka and Clark , in a joint tribute, said: “For us, the loss of Chinua is, above all else, intensely personal. We have lost a brother, a colleague, a trailblazer and a doughty fighter. Of the pioneer quartet of contemporary Nigerian literature, two voices have been silenced — one, of the poet Christopher Okigbo, and now, the novelist Chinua Achebe.’’ They said the late Achebe addressed the present generation of leaders, reminding them that Nigeria is a country of milk and honey but that enough of these were not flowing as they should. Jonathan said the late Achebe’s frank, truthful and fearless interventions in national affairs would be greatly missed. The president said: “While others may have disagreed with his views, most Nigerians never doubted his immense patriotism and sincere commitment to the building of a greater Nigeria. “Achebe wrote that we must aspire not to forget that the real solution to Nigeria’s development lies in a world where charity has become necessary,’’ he said.Jonathan observed that the late writer’s aspiration was to ensure that “we make things happen so that the dependence of the poor on charitable handouts would be a thing of the past’’. “These were the true evocative lines of Achebe that summed up his life and legacy at the pan-African level, the death of this great scholar and novelist is a loss to our country to which he brought honour.’’ He said Nigeria and the world were celebrating and not mourning the late Achebe because he immortalised himself through his work, adding that he would continue to live. He is survived by four children and a wife Chinwe, a Professor of Education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Ah, Chinua, are you grapevine wired? It sings: our nation is not dead, not clinically Yet. Now this may come as a surprise to you, It was to me. I thought the form I spied Beneath the frosted glass of a fifty-carat catafalque Was the face of our own dear land – ‘own’, ‘dear’, Voluntary patriotese, you’ll note – we try to please. An anthem’s sentiment upholds the myth. Doctors IMF, World Bank and UNO refuse, it seems, To issue a certificate of death – if debtors die May creditors collect? We shall turn Parses yet, Lay this hulk in state upon the Tower of Silence, Let vultures prove what we have seen, but fear to say – For if Leviathan is dead, we are the maggots Probing still her monstrous womb – one certainty That mimics life after death. Is the world fooled? Is this the price of hubris – to have dared Sound Renaissance bugles for a continent? Time was, our gazes roamed the land, godlike, Pronounced it good, from Lagos to Lake Chad. The ghosts of interlopers would be exorcised, Not throwing the baby out with bathwater, but – Enthroning ours as ours, bearing names Lodged in marrow of the dead, attesting lineage. Consecrated brooms would sweep our earth Clean of usurpers’ footprints. We marched To drums of ancient skins, homoeopathic Beat against the boom of paleknuckled guns. We vied with the regal rectitude of Overamwen – No stranger breath – he swore – shall desecrate This hour of communion with our gods! We Died with the women of Aba, they who held A bridgehead against white levy, armed with pestle, Sash and spindle, and a potent nudity – eloquent Abomination in the timeless rites of wrongs. Grim cycle of embattled years. Again we died With miners of Iva valley who

undermined More than mere seams of anthracite. All too soon, Alas, we would augment, in mimic claims, In our own right, the register of martyrs. Oh, How we’ve exercised the right of righteous folly In defence of alien rhetoric… what God has joined, etcetera. For God, read white, read slaver surrogates. We scaled the ranges of Obudu, prospected Jos Plateau, pilgrims of rockhills of Idanre. Floated on pontoons from Bussa to silt beds Of eternal Niger, reclaimed the mangrove swamps, Startling mudskipper, manatee, and mermaids. Did others claim the mantle of discoverers? Let them lay patents on ancestral lands, lay claim To paternity of night and day – ours Were hands that always were, hands that pleat The warp of sunbeam and the weft of dew, Ours to create the seamless out of paradox. In the mind’s compost, meager scrub yielded Silos of grain. Walled cities to the north were Sheaths of gold turbans, tuneful as minarets. The dust of Durbars, pyrotechnic horsemen And sparkling lances, all one with the ring of anvils From Ogun’s land to Ikenga’s. Rainbow beads, jigida From Bida’s furnaces vied across the sky with Iyun glow and Ife bronzes, luscent on ivory arches Of Benin. Legend lured Queen Amina to Moremi, Old scars of strife redeemed in tapestries Of myth, recreating birthpang, and rebirth. And, yes – We would steal secrets from the gods. Let Sango’s axe Spark thunderstones on rooftops, we would swing In hawser hammocks on electric pylons, pulse through cities In radiant energies, surge from battery racks to bathe Town and hamlet in alchemical light. Orisa-oke Would heal with herbs and scalpel. Ogun’s drill

Was poised to plumb the earth anew, spraying aloft Reams of rare alloys. Futurists, were we not Annunciators of the Millennium long before its advent? In our now autumn days, behold our leaden feet Fast welded to the starting block. Vain griots! Still, we sang the hennaed lips and fingers Of our gazelle womenfolk, fecund Muses tuned To Senghorian cadences. We grew filament eyes As heads of millet, as flakes of cotton responsive To brittle breezes, wraith-like in the haze of Harmattan. Green of the cornfields of Oyo, ochre of groundnut pyramids Of Kano, indigo in the ancient dye-pots of Abeokuta Bronzed in earth’s tonalities as children of one deity – We were the cattle nomads, silent threads through Forestries and cities, coastland and savannah, Wafting Maiduguri to the sea, ocean mist to sand dunes, Alas for lost idylls. Like Levi jeans on youth and age, The dreams are faded, potholed at joints and even Milder points of stress. Ghosts are sole inheritors. Silos fake rotundity – these are kwashi-okor blights Upon the landscape, depleted at source. Even The harvest seeds were long devoured. Empty hands Scrape the millennial soil at planting. But Chinua, are you grapevine wired? Do you Tune in, listen? There is old music in the air. The word is out again, out from the closet. Renaissance beats are thumbed in government lairs, In lobbies, caucuses, on promotion posters, In parliaments. Academe’s close behind. Renaissance Haunts beer and suya bar, street and rostrum, Inhaled as tobacco smoke, chewed as kola, Clerics beatify the word, lawyers invoke it. Never word more protean, poised to incarnate In theses, conferences, investments. A historic lure Romances the Diaspora. Gangraped, the continent Turns pregnant with the word – it’s sworn, we shall be Born again, though we die in the attempt…

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS Emergency rule: Governors lose all powers to Jonathan Continued from page 2

•Network of People Living with HIV/ AIDS in Nigeria at a protest against non passage of hiv/ AIDS anti Discrimination bill into PHOTO:ABAYOMI FAYESE law at National Assembly Abuja...yesterday

Ateke, other ex-militant‘Generals’ lead anti-Amaechi protest •Protesters not a true reflection of Rivers people, says Amaechi

ORMER militants - exleader of the Niger Delta Vigilance Movement, ‘General’ Ateke Tom and ‘General’ Solomon Ndigbara, aka Osama Bin Ladin; yesterday led many protesters on the streets of Port Harcourt, the River State capital, asking Governor Rotimi Amaechi to resign. The protesters, under the aegis of the Rivers Peoples Assembly (RPA), from the 23 local government areas of the state, wore white T-shirts, and carried banners with various anti-Amaechi inscriptions. They moved from the Isaac Boro Park to the Government House amid singing, drumming and dancing. The protesters, who declared that they were not sponsored, said they were not happy about the deepening crisis in the Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party. They expressed displeasure over alleged bellicose attitude of Amaechi, who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), towards President Goodluck Jonathan. Shortly after the protesters dispersed, Rivers Police Commissioner Mr Mbu Joseph Mbu, announced that public protests have been outlawed in

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

the state. Ateke, who wore a black fez cap, with ash T-shirt and a pair of blue jeans trousers, declined to speak with our reporter at the Isaac Boro Park. Banks and offices located between Isaac Boro Park and Lagos Bus Stop on Azikiwe Road, hurriedly closed shops. Traffic was at a standstill, while commercial activities were paralysed by the “peaceful” protest, especially with the presence of a large number of ex-warlords. Commuters trekked long distances. There was heavy presence of riot and regular policemen and operatives of the State Security Service (SSS), in many Toyota Hilux patrol vans, to prevent the breakdown of law and order. The protesters got to the gate of the Government House at 12: 46pm and waited for over two hours, without any government official to address them. They insisted on not leaving the ever busy road, until Amaechi or any top government official came to speak with them. The leaders of RPA also hinted that the protest would continue on a daily basis, until

Amaechi quits, which they said was the only condition for peace in the state. The PDP crisis pits Minister of State for Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, who is backing new Rivers PDP chairman, Felix Obuah, against Amaechi. The protest coincided with the visit of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 6, Calabar, Mr. Jonathan Johnson. Some of the white T-shirts worn by the anti-Amaechi protesters bore the following inscriptions: “EFCC, probe Amaechi”, “Amaechi, who owns the jet?”, “Amaechi, you have failed Rivers people”,”Amaechi must go.” The banners bore the following inscriptions: “Rivers People Assembly: Amaechi, who owns the jet?”, “Amaechi, where are the two jets Odili left behind?”, “Amaechi must go”, “Amaechi, you constructed 1 km of road with N1.5 billion.” Amaechi, who spoke through the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, said: “The protesters are not a true reflection of Rivers people. We know Rivers people. They want to ruin the economy of Rivers State. God will

‘Soldiers leak tactics to Boko Haram’ Continued from page 2

“Certain vital information had one way or the other worked negatively in our operations. There are also some other soldiers that have been found posting negative comments in the internet and also some have been engaging in conversing with insurgents.” President Goodluck Jonathan once alleged that Boko Haram men had infiltrated the government. Early this month, the police arrested one of its men for allegedly leaking the information that led to the ambush of security agents who were on a mission to arrest some suspected cultists in Nasarawa State. No fewer than 56 security agents were killed instantly. The bodies of 45 others earlier declared missing were allegedly discovered in a mass grave later. Gen. Ihejirika observed that the seminar came at the right time – when the country is grappling with security challenges. According to him, some of the challenges pose serious threats to the corporate existence of the nation.

He said the Directorate of Military Intelligence, the Military Police and commanders in the field have been detailed to strengthen their monitoring operations. He expressed confidence in the capacity of the Armed Forces to meet contemporary security challenges. Said he: “I have also noted the series of lectures outlined in the programme which are central to management and human resource development in the Army. “The theme was central to the attainment of my vision, which is to transform the army into a force better and able to meet contemporary challenges”. The Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Thompson Sekibo, lauded the Armed Forces for the sacrifice they have made in their line of duty and in furtherance of national interest and cohesion. He praised the officers and men for their steadfastness in standing up to the nation’s security challenges. According to him, the professionalism, patriotism and selflessness with which the officers

and men respond to internal security challenges, especially the spate of terrorism, are both reassuring and commendable. The senator said the National Assembly was working assiduously to ensure that the demands of the Armed Forces are addressed. The Chief of Army Transformation, Maj-Gen. Ibrahim Sani, said the essence of Army transformation was to achieve greater effectiveness to meet contemporary challenges and to prepare for emerging and evolving future threats. “The essence of the Nigerian Army Transformation is for greater effectiveness of the army’ an army ready for today’s challenges and prepared for the emerging and evolving future threats. “This requires the Nigerian Army to think differently and develop the kind of force and capabilities that can adapt quickly to the myriad of evolving contemporary threats,” Gen. Sani emphasised. According to him, the Army Transformation and Innovation Centre recognises the importance of human resource element in the attainment of the vision of the Chief of Army Staff.

not allow them.” While speaking with The Nation, Ndigbara, aka Osama Bin Ladin, said: “This is the right time that God wants to do something for Rivers people, because we have been silent for some time. The governor does not respect anybody. Another youth leader, Bob Uelor Ukue, alleged that Rivers people did not want Amaechi again. A former militant leader, Pastor Nature Dumale Kieghe, who is now the General Overseer of the Light of Glory Youth Outreach, said: “We are here because there is a reaction in the atmosphere. I see what is happening in this place as more spiritual than a physical thing. “When you pay evil for good, evil will not depart from you. As you can see, the atmosphere looks tense. The people are reacting and the evil seed that has been sown is coming back to them. Another youth leader, Legborsi Daanwi, expressed displeasure that Amaechi had been hunting ex-militant leader, Ndigbara, which he described as very unfortunate, stressing that he was the first “General” to come out of the creeks to embrace amnesty.

by the spur of the moment. “I think, it is apparent that the President has too much power under the emergency rule to the detriment of the governors and Houses of Assembly. The democratic structures are really not in place in the real sense of it.” The regulations read in part: “State governor in an emergency area shall continue with the general functions of administering the emergency area under the control of the President or a person designated or authorised to act on his behalf. “A local government chairman in an emergency area shall continue with the general functions of administering the emergency area under the control of the President or any person designated or authorized to act on his behalf “The President may give directions to a state governor or local government chairman directly or through his designate or a duly authorised person with respect to the administration of the emergency area and it shall be the duty of the state governor or local government Chairman to comply with the directive “The President may make such orders as appear to him to be necessary or expedient for the purpose of maintaining and securing peace, public order, public safety and good governance in the emergency area. “Any order made under subregulation (1) of this Regulation may in particular, if it appears to the President to be necessary or expedient for the purpose mentioned in the sub-regulation – make provision for the detention of any person either within the emergency area or elsewhere, removal and exclusion of any person from the emergency area; authorize the taking of possession or control of any property or undertaking in the emergency area; authorise the entry and search of any premises; provide for the application of any law (with or without modification), in relation to that area; provide for the utilisation of the funds of any State or local government in the emergency area; provide for the payment of compensation and remuneration to persons affected by the order; provide for the apprehension, trials and

punishment of persons offending against the order; and provide for the maintenance of such applies and services as the President considers essential to the lives of persons in the emergency area. “Nothing in sub-regulation (2) of this regulation shall authorise the making of provisions for the trial of a person by military courts. “An order made under these regulations may provide that the order shall have effect for all purposes as if it were a law made by the House of Assembly of the State of the emergency area concerned. “The President shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after an order has been made under these regulations, transmit a copy of the order to each House of the Assembly for approval and if the National Assembly disallows the order, it shall cease to have effect without prejudice to anything done there under. “Subject to the provisions of subsection (3) of section 215 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 and of any direction given in pursuance of that subsection, a person designated or authorised by the President may give the Commissioner of Police in the emergency area such directions with respect to the maintenance of security, public safety and order as the person considers expedient and it shall be the duty of the Commissioner of Police to comply with the directions. “It shall be the duty of any person holding office – as Governor in any of the emergency States; as local government chairman in any of the local government areas in the affected states; or in the public service of the State in the emergency area within the meaning of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999; to exercise their functions in accordance with any directions given to them by the President, his designate or any authorised person. “Any instrument purported to be signed by the President, his designate or a person authorised by him shall until contrary is proved, be deemed to be signed by the President, his designate or the authorized person.”

Rivers crisis: We’ll correct our mistakes, AIG (who was in his entouHE police may have tells Amaechi sioner rage) to replace the orderlies erred in dealing with the

Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) crisis, the leadership admitted yesterday. Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 6 Jonathan Johnson made the acknowledgement when he led a delegation of senior officers in the zone on a courtesy visit to Governor Rotimi Amaechi at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital. He directed that police orderlies withdrawn from some top government officials be restored. AIG Johnson, who pledged better policing in the state, promised to correct his men’s mistakes. According to him, he has directed Police Commissioner Mbu Joseph Mbu to guard against security breaches. He said: “So, we will take note of all these mistakes and we will correct them. I am assuring you, we will correct them. If there are lapses noticed, let us know so that we can make amends. “And I also want to thank

you (Amaechi) for all you have done for us and the others that you are going to do. We shall continue to appreciate because you know requests from the police will never stop coming. “Every human being that has served or is going to serve (the Nigeria Police Force) is sometimes susceptible to some errors here and there and when that comes to the forefront, it is incumbent on that very particular person to say we shall amend. “I know when these issues of withdrawal of security from some staff officers of yours came, there were agitations here and there.” Johnson said he had also instructed the police commis-

from the Anti-Terrorism Squad withdrawn from some state government officials with policemen from the Special Protection Unit. He praised Amaechi for showing understanding. Johnson said: “We have always been at the wrong side of history because of one thing or the other, but you (Amaechi) show understanding in our mistakes, you show understanding in our service and that is why you’ve provided all these things. We remain grateful to you on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police. We say a big thank you.” He lauded the governor for being police-friendly and for kitting policemen in the State Police Command.

Jonathan to give mid-term report on May 29

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is scheduled to address the nation on May 29. Minister of Information Labaran Maku said yesterday that the President’s mid-term report will summarise key

achievements of the government in various sectors of the economy. According to him, Ministers will follow suit from June 3 to breakdown the achievements in their ministries to Nigerians.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS Ex-Abuja CJ loses bid to stop probe by NJC From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

•House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal (fourth right); Minority Leader Femi Gbajabiamila (second left); Speaker, Students’ Parliament, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Miss Titilayo Arikawe (third right); member, House of Representatives, Dr Samuel Adejare (second right) and other students, during the students’ visit the National Assembly in Abuja...yesterday. PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

2015: Nothing stops Jonathan from contesting, T say Clark, Gbonigi, Ekwueme HE Southern Nigerian Peoples Assembly (SNPA) has said no individual can determine who becomes Nigeria’s President in 2015. The group said the power to choose the President resides in the electorate, adding that it is not subject to the whims and caprices of anybody or a group of persons. SNPA said President Goodluck Jonathan has the right to seek re-election in 2015, if he so wishes. The group also advised the President to convene a national conference to halt the politi-

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

cal tension that has enveloped the country. In a communique by Rev. Bolanle Gbonigi (Southwest), former Vice President Alex Ekwueme (Southeast) and Chief Edwin Clark (SouthSouth), issued at the end of its third general conference in Lagos, the group hailed Jonathan for taking what it called bold steps to reduce insecurity in the

land. The meeting was attended by over 150 delegates. Dr. Cairo Ojougboh and Senator Lee Maeba led a host of former legislators to the conference. SNPA passed a vote of confidence on the President. “The choice of who becomes the president of Nigeria in 2015 resides with the Nigerian people and not subject to the authority, whims and caprices of any one person or per-

sons,” the group said. It added: “The observed unease in the polity, emanating from several threats and drums of war, is a clear expression of continual shrinking space for national dialogue. As we move gradually towards the precipice, our rescue lies only in the convocation of a national conference, which shall provide an unfettered platform for Nigerians to negotiate and agree on terms of living together on the

basis of mutual respect and trust. This is the only way to justify and make meaningful our centenary celebrations.” The group urged Jonathan to take appropriate steps to convene a national conference without further delay. It added: “A committee is hereby established to work out strategies and modalities to assist in the convocation of national conference by, not later than December 2013.

How to ensure effective communication between leaders, followers, by don

S Nigeria prepares for next year’s centenary celebration of the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates, a professor of Mass Communications, Idowu Sobowale, has urged leaders to make “communication” rather than “information” a tool for reaching out to the governed. The varsity don said there would be be more openness between the leaders and the led, while the leaders would know the needs of those they lead, if this method is adopted. According to him, the leaders will be adequately informed to serve the people better, when they choose communication over information in

By Adegunle Olugbamila

their interactions with the led. The Mass Communications expert spoke at the 35th public lecture of Covenant University, Otta Ogun State. In the lecture, with the theme: Communication, Politicians and True Democracy, the former Lagos State Commissioner for Education differentiated between communication and information or persuasion. He said communication would not survive in an atmosphere of coercion, but where respect for the parties exists. Sobowale explained that effective communication connotes shared meaning, adding

that it must be transactional and in the spirit of give-andtake. The lecturer noted that Nigerian leaders prefer information, the euphemism for “order”, “directive”, or “decision”, which would have been taken without consulting the masses and with little regard for how they such decisions would affect them. He said: “Sometimes they try to persuade, in order not to reject, when they sense that we may oppose them. Neither of these is communication. While information may sometimes lead to fear, confusion and hardening of position, communication, on the other hand, engenders confidence, cooper-

CJN warns judges against bribery, unethical conduct From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

•Prof. Sobowale

ation and a sense of belonging.” Of Nigerian politicians, Sobowale singled out Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the first civilian governor of Lagos State, as a leader whose tenure was synonymous with effective communication.

N10.2b suit: We stand by our allegations against Adoke, says Melaye T

HE Executive Secretary of Anti-Corruption Network, Dino Melaye, yesterday said he stands by his allegations against the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister for Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke. Adoke instituted a suit against Melaye, claiming N10.2 billion for alleged libelous publication. He is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, their agents or privies from further publishing libelous stories about him. Melaye, a former House of Representatives member, said neither he nor his organisation has been served any court process. He told reporters that he is standing by his allegations

From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

against the AGF, as he waited to be formally served the court summons. The politician said his organisation would resist any form of harassment in its crusade against corruption. Melaye described the suit as a welcome development, adding that he has only released about 10 per cent of the evidence on alleged abuse of office against the minister. Melaye said: “Neither the Anti-Corruption Network nor myself, as the administrative head of the organisation, has been served any summons or court process. We are yet to be

served. “Adoke preferred to serve the media first and carry out media stunt. We are not interested in media stunt; we are awaiting eagerly and desperately to be served. “In fact, if we wait till 2pm or 3pm today (Wednesday) and we are not served, we will approach the court and we will beg to be served. We are waiting for him to serve us. “I want to say without fear or favour that I, Otunba Dino Melaye, the Executive Secretary of Anti-Corruption Network, as well as the network, stand by everything we have published on Mohammed Bel-

A former Chief Judge (CJ) of Abuja High Court, Justice Lawal Hassan Gumi, yesterday lost the bid to stop his ongoing probe by the National Judicial Council (NJC). The council, in a ruling yesterday, rejected an objection the former CJ filed, challenging the propriety of his probe for alleged abuse of office. Justice Gumi, who recently retired voluntarily, is now the Emir of Gumi. His lawyer, Isreal Olorundare (SAN), accompanied by Sunday Ameh SAN), yesterday argued Gumi’s preliminary objection. He queried the competence of the NJC to probe him on the grounds that he resigned from office as a judicial officer on May 13. The lawyer averred that having retired voluntarily and no longer being a judicial officer, as well as having paid three months’ salary into the Federal Treasury in lieu of notice, Gumi could no longer appear before the NJC on the grounds that the panel lacks the jurisdiction to hear the case against a retired judicial officer. The ex-CJ also contented that there are series of pending cases on the issue for which he was being probed. He noted that one was before an Abuja High Court and another before the Federal High Court, Abuja. The former CJ argued that NJC does not share concurrent jurisdiction with a High Court. Hearing in the petition resumes today.

lo Adoke word for word, fullstop for full stop, semi-colon for semi-colon, comma for comma; indeed, everything we have published about him as abuse of office and flagrant disregard for legal rules and regulation and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “I want to inform the public that what we released on Adoke is less than 10 per cent of what we have to release on him. “His going to court is a welcome development; it will further indict him and it will further expose him. “He tried using the Nigeria Police to institute a case of criminal libel. The police invited us and we wrote the police.”

HE Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mukhtar, has urged judges to avoid the temptation of accepting bribes. She advised them to be firm in the application of court’s rules and should not be reluctant in punishing any lawyer or litigant who flouts court orders. Muhktar spoke yesterday in Abuja when she swore in 12 new judges of the National Industrial Court (NIC). She alerted them to expect temptations of various forms, including bribery, from those standing trial before them but must resist the bribes. The CJN advised the new judges to always exhibit high moral standard. She frowned at certain conducts by lawyers, including engaging in media criticism of the Judiciary, when they lose cases in the court. According top her, such conducts are unprofessional and unacceptable. The new judges’ appointment was recently approved by President Goodluck Jonathan following the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC), headed by Justice Mukhtar. The new judges include: Rakiya B. Haastrup, Waziri Abali, Rabi H. Gwandu, Lawal Mani, Olufunke Yemi Anuwe and John Dele Peters. Others are: Oyejoju O. Oyewumi, Edith N. N. Agbakoba, Amadi Kenneth Ikechukwu, Anthonia Ndidi Ubaka, Peter Odo Lifu and Ebeye David E. Isele,

1,200 women win Fed Govt’s YouWin business competition From Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor), Abuja

ABOUT 1,200 young women entrepreneurs have won the second phase of the Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YouWiN) business plan competition of the Federal Government. The government had dedicated the second cycle of the competition to young Nigerian businesswomen to boost their entrepreneurial profile and empower them to become business owners who can cater for other aspects of their family lives. YouWiN National Coordinator, Dr. Supo Olusi, who addressed reporters in Abuja on the development, said the winners are from the six geopolitical zones. He said the winners emerged from an initial 65,000 applicants for the competition. They were also among the 6,000 who made the initial cut-off and went through a rigorous process that entailed two legs of entrepreneurial training and submissions of business plans, Olusi said.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS CHINUA ACHEBE (1930 -2013)

•Pall bearers bringing out the casket containing the remains of the late Prof Chinua Achebe at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Anambra State...yesterday.

•Senator Ngige (right) greeting Dr. Ike Achebe... yesterday

•Anambra State Governor Peter Obi (right), discusing with the widow of the late Prof Achebe, Christie ...yesterday . With them is Achebe’s son , Ike

•Senator Chris Ngige (left) greeting Igwe of Nteje

•Senator Uche Chukwumerije (third left) and others

•Igwe of Nnewi Orizu (left) and his counterpart from Anugwu

•Igwe Idigo (left) and Obi Gibson Nwosu

•Anambra State commissioners... yesterday.

•Cross-section of Anambra monarchs

•Bishop Ibezim... yesterday

•L-R Igwes Nnabuife, Odegbo and Umudioka

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS

Fed Govt approves new aviation policy

NEW national civil aviation policy has been approved by the Federal Government as part of efforts to reposition the sector, it was learnt yesterday. Information Minister Labaran Maku broke the news to reporters yesterday at the end of the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC). He was accompanied by his counterparts- Mrs. Stella Oduah (Aviation), Senator Idris Umar (Transport) and the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ms Olajumoke Akinjide. Describing the sector as a strategic precision industry, Maku recalled that some actors in the industry had not kept faith with the rules of the game. Mrs. Oduah said it was regrettable that Nigeria, which has at least 100 jets, has no law guiding private jet operation. According to her, “the private jet owners are not paying what they ought to pay to the government and this is part of what the new policy

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

aims to address.” Maku said: “We also debated extensively on a new National Civil Aviation Policy presented to the Council by the Minister of Aviation. As you recall, aviation has received special focus under the President Goodluck Jonathan administration. We have seen momentum in the aviation sector that has not been witnessed in the last 30 years. “The minister has come to the council again with a revised policy to ensure that the sector expands and meets the highest international standard to attract investments from the private sector both within and outside to further advance development in the aviation sector. “The policy covers the whole hub of the aviation sector, including a new proposal to start a new national carrier, driven especially by the private sector with government providing

policy support. “The policy also included the enforcement of rule in this sector. We witnessed of recent a number of actors not committing themselves to the rules that apply in aviation and aviation is a very strategic precision industry where rules must be applied to enhance standard and efficiency. “We are convinced that the policy has tackled virtually all the key issues that are crying for support and for additional action in the aviation sector. We, therefore, approved this new revised national policy on aviation and the minister in the next couple of months will implement the policy with all the key actors in the industry.” Mrs. Oduah said: “In doing that, major highlights were general aviation. When we talk about general aviation, we are talking about the private jets. “Today, we have about a hundred of them and having them we have no law, no policy, no regulation to

make sure that they are operating the way they should operate within ICAO laws and our aviation policy. “The question is not of taking advantages, it is a question of doing the right thing. Are they paying what they are supposed to pay? The response is no, they are not. But we want to make sure that they do pay what they are supposed to pay. “These are part of what the policy is addressing. We want to make sure that private jets are private jets and commercial jets are commercial jets and each will operate within the boxes they are meant to operate. So we don’t want to overcharge anyone, we don’t want to undercharge, we want to do what is global standard. “You must all agree with me that since then, several things have taken place. The security situation has changed and so the challenge has become more paramount that we must be in tune with the global standards.”

Bianca to be served through Embassy By Precious Igbonwelundu

USTICE Adebayo Oyebanji of a Lagos High Court, Igbosere, yesterday ordered that Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, wife of the late Biafran warlord, Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu, be served originating processes through the Nigerian Embassy in Spain. She gave the order in a suit filed by a lawyer, Chief Debe OdumegwuOjukwu, which is one of the several others pending before different judges over the inheritance of Ojukwu’s properties. Join with Bianca in the suit are Ojukwu Transport Ltd, (OTL); Prof. Joseph Ojukwu; Emmanuel Ojukwu; Lotanna Ojukwu; Emeka OdumegwuOjukwu; Patricia Ojukwu and Mrs. Margaret Nwagbo (nee Ojukwu). Justice Oyebanji had at the last adjourned date ordered that Bianca be served through a national newspaper publication, since the claimant could not serve her in person as a result of her current assignment as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain. At the resumed hearing yesterday, the claimant told the court that the cost of placing an advertisement in a national newspaper was high and would affect his weak finances. She adjourned the case till July 2 for proof of service on Bianca.

CJN urges new judges to resist illegal wealth

•Workers of the National Identity Card Commission (NIMC) cooking and eating at the entrance of the National Assembly, Abuja as they protest unlawful PHOTO : ABAYOMI FAYESE disengagement... yesterday.

Mark to governors: ban Almajiri

ENATE President David Mark yesterday enjoined North’s governors to ban the Almajiri system, to curb terrorism. He said the practice is not an Islamic injunction, alleging that politicians encourage it for political gains. Senator Mark noted that the system is counter-productive. He urged the governors to follow the example shown by Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who has reportedly banned the Almajiri. He said people now do bizarre things in the name of unemployment. Mark spoke in Abuja following the debate on a Bill, entitled: “A Bill for an Act to Repeal and Re-Enact the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Act 2003”. He said: “If you cannot get employment, you will go and join a terrorist group so that you can be employed. You join Boko Haram so that you can

From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

be employed. “If you are poor, then you begin to trade and traffic in human beings so that you can be rich. These are never excuses. “What of the people, who are also buying these people outside? Is it because they cannot find employment or because they are poor?” Added he: “We must agree that politicians in the North have failed over the years to stem the Almajiri system. “In fact, if anything else, it would appear that they have encouraged it for political reasons or they have been scared of commenting on it and I think it is a unique opportunity for governors in the North to ban the Almajiri system because they need to. It is a system that is counter- productive. “It is a breeding ground for miscreants and we cannot tolerate it because

for those who have a different faith, if you don’t know, one is a bit worried about making comments on it. But today that I have heard that it is not an Islamic injunction, I think the system ought to have been banned long ago. “I hope they will summon up the courage to ban the system at the earliest possible time. “I am told that Kano yesterday (Tuesday) issued a statement banning it and I believe that other North’s governors should follow suit as quickly as possible. “Whether the people they are trafficking in are old or they are young, human trafficking is a bad trade. “It is not a trade we can encourage in any form at all. We should do whatever we can to discourage it, particularly when children are involved. “The baby factories people are establishing is a very disgusting thing.” Deputy Senate Leader Abdul Ningi

‘Nigeria spends N228.5b to import sugar’

IGERIA spent N228.5 billion to import sugar in the last three years, it was learnt yes-

terday. Also, over 10,000 workers lost their jobs during the period as a result of waivers the Federal Government grants to selected major sugar importers. It was further revealed that the 10 per cent of government fund, which accrued to the Sugar Levy Account, had been spent for other purposes other than the purposes for which it was meant. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Investment, Nenadi Esther Usman, said this in Abuja when he led a debate on a Bill for an “Act to amend the National Sugar Development

From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Council Act Cap N78 LFN 2011 and for other matters connected there with.” Senate President David Mark described the Federal Government’s waivers policy as a “classic example of policy failure.” Usman said: “The funds in the Sugar Levy Account is a dedicated fund for a specific purpose. But over the years, monies have been withdrawn from the account for other purposes not related to sugar sector development. “These amendments are required to ensure Council’s direct access to its funds and prevent the funds from being used for unintended purposes. “Beginning from around 2004,

when the first sugar refinery started operating in the country, the money accruing to the Sugar Levy Account has witnessed a steady decline. “This is due mainly to the fact that most imports now are raw sugar, which currently enjoys a waiver on the payment of the 10 per cent sugar levy. “Nigeria currently consumes 1.3 million metric tonnes of sugar annually, but produces only 30,000 to 50,000 tonnes, which is less than five per cent of its annual consumption. “The huge supply gap is bridged through the imports of sugar, mainly from Brazil. “Nigeria spent N53.6 billion, N73 billion and N101.9 billion in 2009, 2010 and 2011 on sugar importation to meet the nation’s requirement.”

•Mark

noted that human trafficking is a modern day slavery that has gained notoriety in the country. He said Nigeria is now rated as a “source, transit and destination country for human trafficking and forced labour.”

HE Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Aloma Mukthar, yesterday urged judges to resist the temptation of acquiring and hoarding wealth at all cost. She gave the advice in an address she delivered at the swearing-in of the 12 newly- appointed judges of the National Industrial Court (NIC) in Abuja. On May 14, President Goodluck Jonathan approved the appointment of 12 new judges for the court. The approval followed the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) under the chairmanship of the CJN. The judges are: Mrs. Edith Agbakoba, Mr. Waziri Abali, Mrs. Rabi Gwandu, Mr. Lawal Mani, Mrs. Olufunke Anuwe, Mr. Dele Peters, Mrs. Oyejoju Oyewumi and Mrs. Rakiya Haastrup. Others are: Mr. Amadi Ikechukwu, Mrs. Antonia Ubaka, Mr. Peter Lifu and Mr. Ebeye Isele. Justice Mukthar said: “As judicial officers, series of temptations will surely come, but the ability to resist them will definitely stand you out and earn you a lasting reputation. “You must be reluctant in condescending from your lofty positions to acquire and hoard wealth by all means. “You must also ensure that you are men of probity and impeccable character. “No aspect of your conduct should give cause for concern. You must show the highest sense of discipline, honesty, integrity, diligence and dedication to duty as well as good behaviour.”

Sylva seeks court’s permission to accompany wife on foreign trip From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

ORMER Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, has applied to a Federal High Court in Abuja for a permission to accompany his wife on a foreign trip. The ex-governor is standing trial before the court for alleged money-laundering- related-offences. Sylva, in his application filed on May 16, said his wife was scheduled for a surgery in a United Kingdom (UK) hospital and needed his presence. He urged the court to release his international passport to enable him embark on the trip. He promised to return for trial and return the passport to the custody of the court. Sylva said the grounds for his application was that it was part of the conditions attached to the bail granted him last June to always seek the court’s leave before embarking on a foreign trip. He said his wife needed someone to accompany her on the trip and he was the available choice, being the husband. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the prosecuting agency, has objected to the application. It has filed a counter- affidavit to that effect. Justice Adamu Bello, in a bench ruling, held in favour of the EFCC’s lawyer and adjourned till May 28.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS

Oyo police foil kidnap attempt Ekiti pays N84m WASCE fees T by teenagers T

HE police in Oyo State have foiled an attempt by two teenagers to kidnap a 15-year-old. The Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Indabawa, told reporters that the suspects were arrested on Tuesday around 2pm at Adegbaji in Ibadan, the state capital. He said: “Policemen attached to Egbeda Division got information that the teenagers were trying to charter a commercial motorcycle for N100,000. They trailed the suspects and arrested them. “The suspects, aged 17 years, confessed that they were on their way to kidnap one of them’s cousin, Victor Olokituyi, a pupil of Starlite School in Sango. “Investigations revealed that the key culprit, whose

cousin was the target, had been on the trail of their target for over a week. He had been making phone calls to the unsuspecting mother of the target regularly, asking about the boy’s whereabouts and welfare.” The principal suspect told reporters that he planned the kidnap because his uncle did not give him the money he needed for his admission into a tertiary institution. He said: “I once lost admission into the University of Lagos (UNILAG) because I could not afford the N150,000 I was asked to bring. “After the experience, I en-

gaged in different kinds of manual labour to raise money for my education, but not much was forthcoming. “I went to my uncle who was brought up by my father, but he said he had no money. “When the idea of kidnapping my cousin came to my mind, I talked my friend into it, but I now regret my actions.” A knife, cutlass, wraps of Indian hemp and facial masks were found on the suspects, who would be charged to court soon. On Monday, the command intercepted a white station wagon, marked Lagos AW

965 KTU, loaded with 3,525 rounds of live cartridges in three sacks. Indabawa said the car was intercepted in Saki. He said: “On sighting policemen, the vehicle stopped. Its five occupants jumped out and ran in different directions. One of the suspects engaged Corporal Idris Oyekan in a fight and was later apprehended, while the others escaped. The suspect is helping our i n v e s t i g a t i o n . ” The suspect said he was a mechanic and was called to load the car with goods. He said: “They told me they were loading batteries and I did not bother to cross check because it was not my first time of helping them to load goods.”

Petition stalls Ekiti ACN chairman’s trial

HE trial of the Ekiti State Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Jide Awe, was yesterday stalled by a petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC) by Pa Gabriel Adewumi. Awe and four others are on trial for the alleged murder of Mr. Ayo Jeje, who was killed on March 30 in Erinjiyan Eki-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

ti, Awe’s hometown. When they were arraigned on a four-count charge of murder, attempted murder, conspiracy and disruption of public peace, their lawyer prayed the court to allow them continue to enjoy the administrative bail granted

them by the police. Chief Magistrate Richard Adegboye granted the prayer. He said there was no reason to withdraw the administrative bail because the suspects had not acted contrary to the bail conditions. In his petition, Pa Adewumi (81) urged the NJC to investigate Chief Magistrate Adegboye for “professional

misconduct”. He said the suspects should have been remanded in prison custody and their counsel should have filed a formal bail application. The chief magistrate could not preside over the trial yesterday because of the petition, as “he did not want to preempt the NJC’s decision”. The hearing was adjourned till July 12.

HE Ekiti State Government has paid N84,092,360 West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) fees for 10,362 pupils in public secondary schools. The Commissioner for Education and Technology, Mr. Kehinde Ojo, announced this in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, during a meeting with the management of his ministry. He said the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration will continue to provide qualitative and free education. The Commissioner for Health advised parents to monitor their children’s education and urged teachers to continue to work with the government to improve the standard of education.

Court adjourns trial of 10 ‘pipeline vandals’

FEDERAL High Court sitting in Lagos has adjourned till June 18 the trial of 10 suspected pipeline vandals charged with murder. Jigo Jiperende (31), Timi Koro (29), Johnbosco Igbhofose (26), Peter Opidi (28), Joel Inerepamu (25), Reuben Oluwole (60), John Isaiah (28), Ineye Okposa (40), Timi Gunugunu (22) and Olisa Saheed (25) allegedly shot and killed three engineers of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) at Arepo in Ogun State last year. They were charged with seven counts of vandalism

By Joseph Jibueze

and murder. They pleaded not guilty. Lack of legal representation by three of the suspects stalled the trial. The prosecutor, Justin Enang, brought three witnesses to court, but the defence lawyers said it would be unfair for the trial to go on because three of the suspects had no legal representation. While two of the defendants said they could afford a lawyer, the court said the Legal Aid Counsel (LAC) may be contacted to represent the third defendant.

Lawyers urged to follow Lagos civil rules By Adebisi Onanuga

AGOS State Chief Judge Justice Ayotunde Phillips yesterday urged lawyers to abide by the new High Court (Civil Procedure) Rule, 2012. Justice Phillips spoke during a seminar for lawyers at the Bar Centre, Ikeja. The seminar was part of activities marking the law week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja branch. The Chief Judge, who was represented by Justice Femi Adeniyi, said the new Lagos High Court Rule would make justice dispensation easier. She said the Evidence Act, 2011, had been amended to remove clauses that could prevent quick dispensation of justice. Former Commissioner for Environment Dr. Muiz Banire said some parts of the Civil Procedure Rule would slow down the dispensation and suggested a review. Ikeja NBA Chairman Mr. Monday Ubani urged lawyers to study the amended Evidence Act and other reviewed laws.

Lagos gets 13th One-Day Governor

T •Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (second left); the Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese, Rev. Segun Okubadejo (left); his wife, Juliet and Rev. Olubayo Obijole at the opening of the third session of the fifth synod of the diocese, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.

Lagos urges Fed Govt to pay N13.3b pension arrears

HE Lagos State Government yesterday urged the Federal Government to pay the N13,374,189 billion it owes retired public servants in the state. The Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mrs. Florence Oguntuase, spoke with reporters on the second anniversary of the Governor Babatunde Fashola administration.

By Miriam Ekene Okoro

She said the non-payment of the arrears has brought untold hardship on pensioners and put “unnecessary” burden on the state government. The commissioner said the arrears were the federal government’s share of the pension, adding that the state government had paid its share.

She said: “We are appealing to the Federal Government to pay the N1, 107,267,537 pension arrears of retired state government workers and the N12,266,652,137 it owes local government workers. “The state government, through the Civil Service Pension Office, has forwarded applications for the arrears to the Federal Govern-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

floor of the House to comment on issues. She said the constitution grants the president and governors immunity so that they would not be distracted from performing their statutory duties. Mrs. Aremu faulted the Chief

Justice of Nigeria’s (CJN’s) threat to sack any judge, who does not deliver up to four judgments in a year, saying the measure was too harsh. She said no judge would want to hold on to a case for a long time without dispensing it, adding that in most cases, lawyers were to blame for the delay of cases. The Attorney-General and

Abolaji Abudulraman from the Community Junior High School, Ayobo, Ipaja. Bio Marvellous Ejiwon from Victoria Island Senior High School came third. Afolarin was given N250,000. The second and third winners went home with N150,000 and N100,000 respectively. The wife of the governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola, who presented the cash and a trophy to the first prize winner thanked Dufil Prima Foods Plc for ensuring that the grand finale was a huge success.

Mimiko urged to revive firms •Fashola

ment and we hope it will pay the benefits before the pensioners pass on.”

NBA boss kicks against immunity for lawmakers HE Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) in Iwo, Osun State, Mrs. Connie-Jean Aremu (SAN), has advocated against immunity for lawmakers. Speaking on Tuesday at the Bowen University, Iwo, during the association’s Law Week, Mrs. Aremu said the legislators only have privilege on the

HE 13th One-DayGovernor of Lagos State has emerged at the 2013 Spelling Bee competition held at Alausa, Lagos. The competition was organised in two phases for primary and secondary school pupils. There were 52 contestants from 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas. Boadley Juwon Afolarin (15) from Omole Senior Grammar School emerged first after a stiff contest among 52 contestants from 52 public schools. The second position went to

Commissioner for Justice, Wale Afolabi, who represented Governor Rauf Aregbesola, disagreed with Mrs. Aremu. He said it was impossible for any hardworking judge not to deliver four judgments in a year. Afolabi said the CJN’s threat, if implemented, would prevent the pile up of cases.

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Women Leader in Ondo State, Erelu Modupe Johnson, yesterday urged Governor Olusegun Mimiko to focus on improving the state’s “poor economy” and stop “playing politics”. Erelu Johnson urged the governor to emulate the administrative and political prowess of ACN governors, so that the people can feel the impact of his administration. Speaking with reporters yesterday in Akure, the state capital, she said the poor economy was caused by the governor’s inability to revive moribund industries and his “carefree attitude” to the plight of the people. Erelu Johnson said Mimiko has failed to fulfil his electioneering promise to revive the Oluwa Glass Company in Igbokoda. She urged the governor to comment on the rumour that his administration has sold the company to the Dangote Group. The women leader said the economic hardship in the state has prompted young women to involve in “dirty deals” for survival and broken many homes. She urged to the governor to be concerned about the survival of the people, instead of “focusing on” the legal tussle over the last governorship election.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

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

Tax remittance: Nine bank Chiefs beg Reps A

GAINST the threat of being arrested, nine bank chiefs that failed to honour the invitation of the House of Representatives Committee on Finance on Monday, turned up yesterday and apologised. The Committee however, lashed out at one of the bridged banks for sending an officer below the rank of an Executive Director. The bank’s representative, Peter Oyedele, Head, Collection was walked out of the meeting. The Bank’s Chief Executive Officer was given 24 hours to present himself before the Committee. The Committee was investigating 21 banks over collected tax remittances and compliance with tax payment lashed out at the Bank chiefs for treating invitation by the House of Representa-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

tives with levity. Chairman of the Committee, Abdulmumin Jibrin said: “We take exception to parliamentary invitation being treated with levity. We don’t think there is anything more important to the CEOs than what the Committee is doing on the economy on behalf of Nigerian people”. Jibrin also allayed the fears of the bank Chiefs over the exercise, noting that the investigation would turn out to be beneficial to the banking sector through proactive legislations. . “It may even turn out that the banks may be refunded over their remittances by the time we conclude analysing the data at out disposal. “In the final analysis, the sector would be better for it as our intention is to

Lagos rakes N6.28b from Land Use Charge By Miriam Ekene Okoro

• Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN)

AGOS State Government realised N6.28 billion from the collection of Land Use charge on properties last year, the Commissioner for Finance, Tokunbo Abiru, has said. Abiru, who briefed journalists on the activities of the ministry ahead of the sixth anniversary commemoration of the Babatunde Fashola’s administration, said the amount was an improvement over the N250million recorded in 2008. He said the feat was achieved through the comprehensive billing approach adopted by the state government. “The adoption of the comprehensive billing of enumerated properties greatly helped to push up our revenue in 2012. As a matter of details, out of a total number of 641,132 enumerated across the state, 622,155 representing 97 per cent were billed. “The outstanding 18,977 billable properties which are mainly raw records, and yet to be processed, but not exempted from payment, are now receiving due attention. It is gladdening that we have removed many of the problems encountered in the administration of the charge, and the voluntary payment by residents has helped a lot,” he said. Abiru said records from the Lands Company Limited charged with the responsibil-

ity of collecting the charges for the first quarter of 2013, sign-posted robust revenue for the year. He implored residents to uphold the tradition of paying their Land use charge promptly, saying that it would assist the government to deliver more development in the state. He said a total of N18, 031,148, 931 had been paid by the state government as pension to its retirees in the last five years, adding that N671, 094,145 had also been paid by the state‘s underwriters as compensations to dependants of 183 deceased workers as death benefits. He said three tranches of bonds valued at N275billon had so far been issued by the state government, explaining that the proceeds were being used to finance on-going infrastructural projects. He said the state attained 89 per cent budget performance last year, adding that the government has commenced the funding of the N499.6billion 2013 budget with vigour to ensure it achieves its set goals. He also assured residents that all on-going projects will be completed, saying the state had embarked on financial strategies to ensure that projects undertaken by the administration are not left uncompleted. Abiru also put the state’s monthly Internally Generated Revenue at N29billion, inclusive of what the state receives from the Federation Account, adding that the figure amounts to an average 10.7 per cent over the last five years. He said, “In specific terms, our total revenue grew from a monthly average of N18.9billion in 2008 to about N29billion in 2012, which amounts to an average yearly growth of 10.7 per cent over the past five year-period. Over the five year period, Internally Generated Revenue accounts for over 65 per cent of the total revenue.

strengthen the sector,” he added. Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Ayobami Ogunnisi, who said the exercise was about shoring up the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the government against perpetual budget deficit, noted that Chief Executives should not wait for threat of arrest before honouring lawmakers’ invitations. “All we are doing is to im-

prove our revenue base and make sure we go over this yearly budget deficit rituals. The banks are rated so high and we believe that they can help us because of their contribution to the economy”. Godwin Emefiele, the Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) apologised for non-appearance of the bank chiefs, saying it was not deliberate, citing communication gap as being responsible.

While he promised that such would not occur again, Emefiele assured that his bank as well as his colleagues would fully cooperate with the Committee in the assignment. “We will cooperate fully and give our counsel where necessary to achieve the purpose of this exercise, moving our economy forward,” he said. Other bank chiefs, in their responses towed the same

line with the Zenith Bank boss with promises of cooperating with the Committee. The bank chiefs were given additional information to the template earlier given to them, which they would defend between June 3rd and 7th, 2013. CEOs of Zenith Bank, Heritage Bank and Keystone Bank and Executive Directors of five others were present at the session.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

BUSINESS NEWS

Dangote to invest $60m in sugar in Kwara, Kebbi states

RESIDENT, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Muhammed Aliko Dangote,, has promised to invest over $600 million in the production of sugar in Kwara, Kebbi and Sokoto states. He also expressed satisfaction with the state government efforts at revolutionalising agricultural practice in the state. Dangote stated during a courtesy call on the Kwara State Governor, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed at the Government House, Ilorin. In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba, said Dangote intend to replicate what it did in the cement industry, by targeting about

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

65million tonnes of sugar which he said could produce about one million jobs for the people. He said in the next five years, the company would produce and grow two million tonnes of sugar, as part of efforts to ensure that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in consumables instead of depending on importation. He said Nigeria was wasting quite a lot of money in the importation of about two million tons of sugar, adding that the company has identified Patigi local government area for the sugarcane plantation. He expressed the hope that with the cooperation of the

people and the state government, the project would takeoff before the end of the year. Governor Ahmed said his administration was very committed to working with investors in its bid to transform the economic lives of the people. Ahmed assured Dangote that his administration would create the enabling environment for would-be investors to operate, coupled with adequate security for the growth of the economy. The Governor said Nigeria would never get it wrong if it invested in agriculture as the northern part of the country was endowed with arable soil which could be utilized for agriculture as a foreign exchange earner for the nation.

• From left: Chief Financial Officer, Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman; Group Head, Retail Loans, Sterling Bank, Kikelomo Kuponiyi; Country Manager, Intel Corporation, Olubumi Ekundare and Intel Global Director, Carlos Martinez, during the press conference to announce the Sterling Bank, Intel and Westgate Smart PC purchase deal at Pearl Garden, Lagos.

FIRS boss to officers: Improve your capacity

HE Acting Executive Chairman of the Fed eral Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Alhaji Kabir Mashi, has urged leaders of state tax boards to develop

From Nduka Chiejina (Asst. Editor)

their capacity. Marshi told the states tax board leaders to dream, articulate visions, objectives and develop strategies to actualise them. He spoke in Abuja yesterday at a two- day Leadership Enhancement Programme organised by the Joint Tax Board (JTB) in collaboration with ReStral Consulting. Mashi, who doubles as the Chairman of the JTB, told the Chairmen of the Inland Revenue boards of the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that as leaders, they owe themselves, their organisations and Nigeria the duty to developed themselves. He said capacity building is the most important challenge facing leaders in modern societies today. “As Chief Ac-

counting Officers of our respective tax authorities, the need for continuous capacity building programmes cannot be over emphasised. You are all aware that we are constantly faced with the challenge of how to effectively and adequately manage both human and material resources at our disposal for optimum revenue collection,” he added. He said the programme was organised to build the capacity of the tax chiefs Who must strive for perfection, saying, “we equally need avenues like this to share and compare notes of the goods and not too pleasant situations around us.” Marshi noted that leadership capacity building “remains a major tool in helping chief executives develop essential skills necessary for achieving organisational goals and objectives.

Bill is to protect consumer rights, says Lagos Assembly

HE Lagos State House of Assembly has said the consumer protection agency bill before the House will prevent the continued violation of consumer rights by manufacturers and service providers in the state. Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Public Petitions, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade, stated this at the public hearing on the bill, which held at the Lateef Jakande Auditorium at the Assembly complex, Alausa yesterday. The private member bill was sponsored by Speaker of the House, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji and has been pending since the 6th Assembly. Tagged ’A bill for a law to establish the consumer protection agency, provide for the protection of the interest of consumers, settlement of consumer disputes and for connected purposes’ Agunbiade said it is the answer to previ-

By Oziegbe Okoeki

ous forms of intervention which are inadequate. “There have been forms of intervention here and there to protect consumers but we feel that the law is not adequate enough to protect consumers and that is why we still have a lot of consumer rights being violated by manufacturers and service providers. “Lagos state now decides to take the bull by the horn as to have a more enduring law that will further protect more effectively the right of every consumer and we are taking it down to the grassroots by creating desk of the agency at the local councils”, Agunbiade said. When the law becomes fully operational, the agency’s objectives shall include: to promote and protect the rights of the consumers which includes but not limited to the right to be protected against marketing of goods and services which are hazardous to life.

Konica Minolta investments hit N1b

GIANT in the global printing industry, Konica Minolta yesterday said its investments in both human resources, machines and other aspects in Nigeria is now about N1billion. The Managing Director, Skysat Technologies (Nig) Limited that are the local partners of the Konica Minolta in Europe, Mr. Izzat Debs, disclosed this to journalists during the opening ceremony of the company’s digital print solution exhibition in Abuja. He said the firm was ex-

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

cited to showcase and launch some new products in the A4 black and white range which are designed to increase efficiency in printing, which include “bizhub series 3300P and 4000P. “ According to him, the item is “with a compact design and an impressive optimal performance. The new printers are ideal for small to medium-sized work groups. The printers feature different advantages and speed rates to suit different customers’ needs and make workday life easy.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23 2013

COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

Eavesdropping on Internet Communications

Home truth • Kwankwaso’s x-ray of the Boko Haram crisis calls for a complete overhaul of the northern system

OVERNOR Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso of Kano State hit the nail on the head when he declared dysfunctional youths from irresponsible parents create the nursery that feeds the Boko Haram insurrection. Speaking with visiting members of the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, the governor lamented the irresponsible conduct of some parents in the North who give birth to some 30 children, decide to take care of only two and unleash the rest of the pack on the society – with commercial-inclined states like Kano bearing much of the brunt. “They grow up to hate themselves,” the governor said of the children, “hate their parents, hate the leaders, hate the government and the society. They feel they are deprived, they feel injustice and they

‘For starters, the North needs to critically examine its pristine feudalism that tends to allocate resources on the basis of birth and class; and not on the basis of equitability. It is undemocratic and unjust to deny the nobility of their trove. But to reduce resentment that often drives violence bordering on anarchy, deliberate, veritable and verifiable efforts should be made to care for the not-soprivileged members of the society’

become enemies of the state and constituted authorities. They thereby become vulnerable to crime and violence.” The governor’s comment may well be a direct lift from the Boko Haram recruitment manual, if ever there was one! Coat this society bitterness with some selfserving dogma and you probably have an army of suicide bombers raring to go! In the colony of suicide bombers and sundry anarchists, therefore, you probably have a cadre convinced beyond any doubt – reasonable or unreasonable – that they must crush a society that thinks very little of crushing them. If the situation is as dire as the governor has painted – and with the violence and insecurity in the large swathe of the area, there is little doubt about that – then the governor’s alarm is nothing short of patriotic. In his x-ray, he has made for the root of the problem. But making for the root of the problem does not in any way suggest solving it is at hand. For starters, the North needs to critically examine its pristine feudalism that tends to allocate resources on the basis of birth and class; and not on the basis of equitability. It is undemocratic and unjust to deny the nobility of their trove. But to reduce resentment that often drives violence bordering on anarchy, deliberate, veritable and verifiable efforts should be made to care for the not-so-privileged members of the society. This the government can do with specific welfare programmes, targeted at the most vulnerable members of society. This can be done in areas of education, health and housing. Indeed, northern governments must collectively work on pan-northern free and

compulsory education. Going hand in hand with the feudal system is the abuse of the tenets of religion. About every religion preaches procreation as a divine order. Also, religions hint at divine providence, which simplistic logic is no more than that if God had divined procreation, God will provision for that procreation. That, of course, is permissible and legitimate within the ambit of faith. However, faith presupposes the inevitability of blessing after hard work. Unfortunately however, many abuse this natural order of things; and deliberately omit hard work from the belief and blessing chain. That would logically explain why parents would have more children than they can ever take care of – and spill this ill-bred band on society in the scary way Governor Kwankwaso recounted. In this long entrenched practice, there is no short cut. The solution, of tinkering the northern society, is long-term enlightenment, matched with mass education. But that would mean tougher war on corruption to free resources for this developmental challenge. That would be tough, given how endemic corruption is. But with will, it is not impossible. Also, religious organisations must be encouraged to teach faith with hard work; and not socialise their flock to some inevitable divine manna which failure often turns expectations into frustration, with devastating effect. Parents should also be enlightened on the imperative of having only children they can cater for; by demonstrating the grim consequences of irresponsible parental behaviours.

The police paradox •The sharp disparity in the compensations for fallen police and SSS men is a sad testament

HE paradox of the Nigeria Police Force is that it is the most important institution for maintaining peace and order, and even for the security of lives and property. It is indeed the inexorable steely arm of the judiciary which in tandem, keeps the society sane, safe and orderly. The police is arguably the most important organ of the modern state, yet in Nigeria, it is the least regarded. The Nigerian state carries on as if it could do without the police. In fact, the Federal Government, having shambled on fairly well without a proper police for so many years, today sees the police as an irritant only to be tolerated. Two recent incidents corroborate this mindset. Reports last Monday (which have not been refuted) show how families of men of the Department of State Services (DSS) who were killed on duty in the recent ambush in Nasarawa State were promptly handed an initial compensation of N10 million each, while the families of their police counterparts still awaited a paltry N500,000 compensation. The fallen State Security Service (SSS) men’s family members are also to enjoy a bequeathal of a befitting house each. The Inspector –General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Dikko Abubakar, was reported to be so aghast at the demeaning disparity in the compensation packages of the two services that he immediately increased his men’s take to N1 million. But there still remains a most demoralising difference. Another pointer to the status of the police in Nigeria is the rehabilitation work going on at the Police College, Ikeja, (PCI) Nigeria’s premier academy for the train-

ing of the force. The institute went to seed as a result of government’s indifference to the police in the first place; until January , PCI was unfit to be a pig sty and that is not an exaggeration. PCI was in such a scandalous state that when a television station reported its dereliction, it was an award-winning scoop of international magnitude. What was the Federal Government’s response after some days of huffing and puffing? It drafted the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers to embark on the massive makeover of the police college, including the procurement of wardrobes, classroom desks and beds. This unthinking and blatant vote-of-noconfidence on the police establishment is not the most act of morale-killing ever meted out to the police, but it is quite significant with deep psychological imports. Ironically, the Federal Government is inadvertently abating the curse and damnation imposed on the police by the military hierarchy. Recent history shows that it was successive military governments that rendered the police impotent and almost worthless, to satisfy their dictatorial tendencies. At a point, the tag, ‘force’ was yanked off the Nigeria Police. That was the story of the police in Nigeria and the force’s troubles have not abated. No police unit would be allowed into a military barrack to do army work or contract. A military officer’s pay is miles apart from his police counterpart’s. A brigade commander’s office is a world apart from a divisional police officer’s office. When the police became so underfunded and crushed under the boots that it could not perform some of its basic

functions, successive federal government simply created other organs like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC; the Federal Road Safety Commission, the National Security and Civil Defence Corps and even the WAI Brigade. When there is a breach of the peace that required the mobile police force, government mobilises military troops, on and on and the police as constituted today, is a damaged replica of the real thing. Again, we urge the Federal Government to borrow a leaf from some advanced countries of the world and restore the police to its status-quo ante. The police is a sacred institution of state that must be pristine in its very nature and be positioned as the bastion of any modern state. The police is not subordinate to the military class or even the political elite. The police is the state.

‘Again, we urge the Federal Government to borrow a leaf from some advanced countries of the world and restore the police to its status-quo ante. The police is a sacred institution of state that must be pristine in its very nature and be positioned as the bastion of any modern state. The police is not subordinate to the military class or even the political elite. The police is the state’

HE Federal Bureau of Investigation has a new plan to intercept Internet messages, calls and video chats. Instead of requiring companies like Skype and Google to build surveillance capabilities into their services as it suggested in 2010, the F.B.I. now proposes fining companies that fail to comply with court-ordered wiretaps. The new approach has met less opposition from other agencies, like the Commerce Department, than the earlier plan, which went nowhere because some officials worried that it would hurt innovation by imposing expensive and technically difficult requirements on start-up Internetbased communication services. Fines, some officials believe, would be less of a burden on new businesses because they might not have to worry about developing the ability to conduct wiretaps right away. The White House is evaluating the plan for submission to Congress. The F.B.I. has long complained that it is becoming ever harder to carry out courtapproved, real-time eavesdropping on criminal suspects since people are communicating without picking up a phone. The agency argues that the monitoring of Internet-based services does not expand government surveillance, but merely updates the current wiretap law. Judges would still have to authorize wiretaps, and would impose the fines if the services did not comply. But tech companies and advocates for greater privacy and security say the threat of fines would still force companies to build complex wiretapping capabilities into their services from the start (allowing wiretapping on peer-to-peer services like Skype will be particularly difficult). And they argue that opening systems to surveillance could make them vulnerable to hackers, a serious problem. Some experts say there are other ways to monitor suspects. A recent paper by four academics in the journal IEEE Security & Privacy argues that the government could get court orders to install software directly on the computers of suspects instead of going through Internet companies. The administration and Congress need to analyze carefully the F.B.I.’s proposal, details of which have not been made public. New rules will have to strike the right balance between privacy and cybersecurity and the government’s need to monitor criminal activity. • New York Times

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Kunle Fagbemi •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile •Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon •Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina •Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) Yomi Odunuga •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Group Business Editor Ayodele Aminu •Sport Editor Ade Ojeikere •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: As someone, who in the last one dozen years has had great joy and pride to have advised some 180 students for their undergraduate theses, I read with great consternation and a heightened sense of chagrin Prof. Rukkayat Alkali’s almost patrician, patronizing finality that about 1.4 million candidates who sat for the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) would not get placement into institutions of their choices; this figure of “absolutely certain “rejectees” is out of a total of 1.7 million candidates. Oh dear! Why UTME, then? Lately, Nigerians have been all too chirpy in the rumour mill about the 8.5 billion naira raked in by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board

SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 1000 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.com

‘Federating’ tertiary institutions’ admissions (JAMB) as internally-generated revenue (IGR) to have these candidates sit for the examination in the first place. It would be a good sign, indeed, if all candidates who sincerely desire to study at higher institutions are duly given placement slots; no, of course not, this is not mawkish utopianism! The minister’s stance

smacks of an all-powerful central command structure with respect to how Nigerians wish to study at the post-secondary stage. The argument that facilities are “over-stretched already” at all existing federal, state, and private institutions of higher learning does not impress me much because I have come to the conclusion that what rickety facilities that

are there are not even optimally utilized. At my department, so the grapevine says, there are crates of laboratory equipment from the 1980s that have not been broken open till now: yet I have single-handedly counseled some 180 students for their undergraduate theses: most of these student have integrated

Prisons off federal exclusive list?

IR: The Senate has said that state governments can now build and operate prisons, which hitherto have been an exclusive preserve of the federal government. Media reports quoted the chairman of Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters, Senator Umaru Dahiru as saying: “under the new arrangement, states can now build, fund, and maintain prisons in their domains,” without seeking any approval from federal government. This development, we want to believe, means that prison service has been removed from the oldfashioned federal exclusive list, even though this was not explicitly stated in the reports. There is a sense in which Dahiru’s statement makes a patriotic Nigerian want to cry because it is a tacit confession that Nigeria’s foremost democratic institution knows that Nigeria needs a new arrangement, which it should have spearheaded by allowing the Constituent Assembly produce a new constitution for the country

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG

through a Sovereign National Conference. While we would love to commend the Senate for this development, we dare ask why it is finding it difficult to muster the courage needed for total rearrangement. We hope our Senators know that building prisons involve funding, which many states may not have. Many of them are still struggling to pay the minimum wage because the near-scandalous revenue allocation formula is still preferred. We live in a country where

federating states are not allowed to control their own resources and Value Added Taxes generated in the states are hauled off to Abuja. Removing prison service from the federal exclusive list is a bitter-sweet indication. The sweet sense is the gratification that the senate knows that our call for restructuring of Nigeria’s political governance is essential to the country’s survival. The bitter sense, which lingers more, is the fact that liberalising prison service is actually a trifling portion of the heavy burden weighing down the country.

It is said that a leader takes the people where they want to be, but a great leader takes the people where they ought to be. We charge the Nigerian senate to be great leaders of our people. They should take the bull by the horns by facilitating the convocation of a SOVEREIGN NATIONAL CONFERENCE (SNC), to solve Nigeria’s problems once and for all. • Kunle Famoriyo Afenifere Renewal Group Lagos

FRSC, this is unfair IR: On Saturday March 30, at about 1.pm, I was stopped by an official of Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) immediately after Jibowu bus stop, near the bridge head towards Yaba, Lagos. All the documents demanded were supplied. The official asked for fire extinguisher, C-caution etc. while I

duly showed him one after the other. Until he finally asked me to step on the brake pedal when he then discovered the right side of the brake light was not showing. This was as a result of the bulb getting burnt (which could happen at any time). For this, the officer decided to book me for two thousand naira (N2000) when the bulb costs only twenty

naira (N20). I think this rather unfair. Sir, I have the following observation to present: FRSC officials on duty should imbibe the culture of human/public relations since they are the mirror society uses to see the commission. This particular officer was very boastful, arrogant and pompous. An offence that has nothing to do with

seamlessly into society and are doing jolly good in their chosen careers at home and abroad; those who have dared to pursue graduate studies (at home and abroad) have not disappointed one bit. Actually, in the year 2006, I had the honour to teach a final-year class of 250 students; I am very impressed by the number from that class who are currently pursuing interest in their PhDs. Yet, according to the grapevine, there are crates of lab equipment from the 1980s that have not been broken open till now. Classic case of appropriate equipment glut, eh? Methinks individual institutions of higher learning across Nigeria, with no arm-twisting from the “federated” National University Commission NUC, could still make do with expanded student intakes in order to act an “academic sponge” to “soak up” all those “excessabove-requirement” who may not get admission placements come the 2013/2014 academic session. What could be done is to prop the crop of academia, mentally and materially, to embrace the challenge of increased student body. Presently, the corps of academia is one dormant baby-producing institution. I should know this. Naturally. • Sunday Jonah Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State

mechanical/electrical fault does not deserve any booking. A burnt bulb does not deserve any penalty. There is no doubting the fact that the commission has the onerous duty of sanitizing our numerous road users, we can only pray you continue in this regard. • Ajao, Shobalaje Lukman, Lagos.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

COMMENTS

Nigeria: God have mercy

HAT there is crisis of instability in Nigeria is not news. In the south, we are afflicted by the militancy in the Niger Delta which in spite of the so called amnesty and payment of bribes to criminals has continued unabated. Foreign and local oil men are still routinely kidnapped and policemen are regularly killed. In spite of the presence of solders, the creeks of the Niger Delta are still not safe for anybody. The South-eastern states seem to have perfected the practice of kidnapping which they borrowed from the Niger Delta. It has become a cottage industry in many parts of the South-east. It is so bad in the South-east that many of their important leaders are fleeing into Lagos and Abuja where there is relative security. Unfortunately for them and for us, these kidnappers have followed them particularly to Lagos and the South-west where they are freely operating and recruiting into their ranks the local hoi poloi. Criminal gangs are now operating in Lagos and as far north as Kaduna in this nefarious kidnapping business. We have written so much about Boko Haram that there is nothing new to write again. One only hopes that there will soon be a turnaround in the case of insecurity in the North. But once again, I must confess that I sincerely believe that the cause of insecurity in the North is the pervasive poverty there. This poverty is accentuated by the rampant corruption of political leaders in Nigeria generally and in the North in particular. The cultural practice where rich people feed poor people exposes the transparent inequality in that part of Nigeria. However with education and enlightenment, poor people are beginning to ask questions as to why their commonwealth is not common. In order to overcome the problem of Boko Haram, the federal government, state governments and the local government up North will have to embark on massive creation of jobs, massive infrastructural provision of water and electricity and massive investment in mechanized agriculture. Without this, the problem will remain intractable. What I have suggested for the North must also be done for the whole country if we are trying to prevent rebellion arising from poverty

INCE the declaration of a state of emergency in the Northeast states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe last Thursday, a lot of water, as they say, has passed under the bridge. The power equation seems to have changed with the tide turning against the perpetrators of violence. By perpetrators, I mean the Boko Haram elements, who had until the coming of emergency rule turned that part of the country to a killing field. The killings have not stopped though, but Boko Haram is no longer having the upper hand. The sect has met its match in the special forces deployed in those states in the wake of emergency rule. Before the declaration of emergency, Boko Haram held sway virtually everywhere in the North, killing, maiming and looting. The sect ran rings round Borno and Yobe states, especially. At the height of its madness, it appeared it was untouchable. That was where the sect got it all wrong. Because the government did not want to match force with force then, Boko Haram saw itself as unstoppable and those who could intervene did not help matters with their undue silence. Despite entreaties from the government and many concerned people that they should talk to the sect to let reason prevail, they failed to take up the job. The feeling many had was that they were happy with what Boko Haram was doing. This was the political thinking in many quarters, especially in the Southsouth, where President Goodluck Jonathan hails from. It became a we versus them thing. This was the dangerous dimension the Boko Haram insurgency was taken then. The core leadership of the North deigned from lifting a finger to stop the sect, pretending that it didn’t know those behind the group. That was a ruse. The northern leaders, at least, some of them knew the brains behind this deadly group, but for their own safety, they kept a safe distance.

enveloping the whole country. The news that distressed me most in recent times is not about Boko Haram, kidnapping or militancy in the Delta while these are serious problems, the one that wins the victor ludorum is the reported baby factory in Umuaka Njaba council area of Imo State. Even though this crime does not seem new in the area, it has now assumed international dimension because it has gone globally viral. The story is that a lady built a huge compound where she harbours about 26 girls ranging from 14years to 25years of age. She locked them up in her compound and apparently lured a young man of 20years old to sleep with the 26 girls until they became pregnant. There must have been an element of coercion and force on the girls to surrender themselves. When these pregnant girls had babies, they were paid N60,000 for male child and N30,000 naira for female child. While the children were then sold by the Madam to her apparently waiting clients, the cycle of getting pregnant will begin all over again as if she was breeding dogs. The closest thing like this that I have come in contact with in my reading was what used to happen in the 17th century on the Caribbean island of Barbuda where the English will take strong black slave men and strong black slave women to breed and produce what they thought will be strong children particularly male to use as black overseers of plantation slaves. What was regarded as a crime against humanity is happening before our very own eyes in Imo state of Nigeria. This story dehumanizes us and reduces our humanity as far as I am concerned and makes us a laughing stock in the international community. It is as bad as when some people kill hunch backs and albinos for money rituals in some parts of Africa. This case should be taken with utmost seriousness and the leaders of the community where it happened should be asked to say something about this abomination before it spreads to other parts of Nigeria. There is evidence of official collusion by Imo state’s Ministry of Women and Child Affairs in this terrible trade. It is the same poverty that is the cause of Boko Haram movement that makes young girls victims of

kidnapping and induction into baby factories. Obviously the Madam who is in charge of this is not poor because she runs a maternity as well as a pure water making factory Jide in front of the Osuntokun house while the back of the house is the baby factory. This lady should be arrested immediately and an example of her should be made through life sentencing or execution as the case may be. If we do not do this, others will embrace this practice or learn from it in order to build their own baby factory. This should not be left in the hands of police alone. The government of Imo State must say something and do something and the government of other states where this practice may have spread should better watch out. A nation where everything goes, where nothing is too fantastic and unbelievable to happen, is not a good nation. The blood of the innocent has been shed too much on our land and we need to pray to God as a nation to forgive us and we need to cry in unison, God have mercy.

‘A nation where everything goes, where nothing is too fantastic and unbelievable to happen, is not a good nation. The blood of the innocent has been shed too much on our land and we need to pray to God as a nation to forgive us and we need to cry in unison, God have mercy’

Winning the terror war In choosing self above country, they allowed evil to thrive. Boko Haram is evil, no matter how you look at the matter. The sect never came up to tell the world its grievances it just woke up one day and unleashed terror on the country. Granted that a grave mistake was made in the killing of its leader, Yusuf Muhammed, by security agencies in 2009, but does that make its bombing of churches; invasion of prisons; kidnapping of people and robbing of banks justifiable? Two wrongs, they say, do not make a right. The sect has spoilt a good case by its resort to violence. A man, the law says, cannot be a judge in his own case. With what has been happening since the massive deployment of troops in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe, Boko Haram now knows that it has no monopoly of violence. The military has not given the sect a breathing space since it entered those states. It has been making things hot for the group. This emergency may turn out to be a blessing at the end of the day. If not for it, we will still be at the sect’s mercy, but now the group is on the run with its tail between its legs. Between last Wednesday and today, it has lost so many of its members and this is just the beginning of the battle. The war is yet to start. I am not gloating over the fate of Boko Haram; no far from it. The sect got itself into this bind and it is also the only one that can free itself from it. The best thing for it to do in the present circumstance is to lay down its arms. It is time for Boko Haram to surrender if it does not wish to continue to suffer a loss. There is no way it can take on the military and win. After over four years of being allowed to do whatever it wanted,

the party, I am sorry to say, is over for Boko Haram. Let it lay down its arms now so that the nation can begin the grim task of rebuilding all the states, particularly Borno, which it destroyed in its madness.

The rice cartel Despite all efforts to curb it, rice smuggling is still thriving. It is thriving because those in the business have devised ways of passing through our porous land borders. And then, they enjoy the support and cooperation of the border guards, that is the Customs and Immigration. Let’s face it, if these paramilitary agencies are up and doing, rice smugglers would have been run out of business by now. But because they benefit from this illicit trade, they have shut their eyes to what the smugglers are doing. Unfortunately, the country is at the receiving end. We are losing a lot of revenue, which could have helped in the growth of our gross domestic product (GDP), to rice smuggling. Today, the country, according to reports, is losing about N9.7billion monthly to this illegal business. The amount is the cost of 80,000 metric tonnes (MTS) or 1.6 million bags of rice smuggled into the country. This means that in a year, the country loses N116.4billion just on rice smuggled into the country through Benin Republic. The smugglers make use of different routes to bring in the commodity. In the North, they are said to come in from Niger and Cameroon through the Maradi and Zinder borders. In the Southwest, they come in through Seme, Ajilete and Shaki from the Benin axis.

‘The sect has spoilt a good case by its resort to violence’

These routes are also used to smuggle cars. The ban on rice has been rendered meaningless by this thriving illegal trade. How can the government achieve its plan for the country to be self-sufficient in rice production by 2015 when its efforts are being thwarted by these heartless smugglers? These smugglers do not have the love of their country at heart. If they do, they will not engage in activities that will rob the country of revenue that can boost the GDP. They have by their actions turned themselves to economic saboteurs and they should be so treated when caught. No country folds its arms and watches when unscrupulous people come together under the guise of doing business to rob it of revenue. If we really mean to diversify our mono-economy so that we will no longer rely only on oil as a major revenue earner everything must be done to stop these smugglers before they destroy the economy. If they are genuine businessmen, they will not evade the payment of the 110 percent duty on the commodity. A few weeks ago, a vessel carrying 22,750 MTS of rice was said to have moved to Cotonou, Benin Republic, to offload in order to evade the payment of N2.6billion duty on the commodity. Why did the importer do that when Beninois do not consume long grain parboiled rice as we do in Nigeria? He did it to evade payment of the N2.6billion duty since he knew he could use a fraction of the sum to bribe Customs and Immigration and also pay some smugglers to get the commodity in through the borders. If things continue like this, Nigeria will continue to be the loser, while smugglers will be smiling to the bank. Government should move fast to stop this illicit trade before much damage is done to the economy.

Lawal Ogienagbon lawal.ogienagbon@thenationonlineng.net SMS ONLY: 08099400204

Let the RhodesVivours go Mother and daughter were kidnapped on May 10 and since then, nothing has been heard about them. Nobody knows where they are being held by their abductors, who are said to have demanded a N200million or N300million ransom. I am talking about Mrs Adedoyin Rhodes-Vivour and her daughter who were kidnapped on their way to Benin, Edo State 13 days ago. They are the wife and daughter of Supreme Court Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour. The police are on the trail of the kidnappers, who are believed to be somewhere in the thick forest between Ondo and Ekitii states. The Rhodes-Vivour family has been through a lot in the hands of kidnappers. Justice Rhodes-Vivour’s son Rotimi was said to have been kidnapped last September and was released after the payment of a ransom believed to run into millions of naira. What has the family done to be haunted by kidnappers? What do they want from this family? My appeal to the kidnappers is to let mother and child go today. Why hold the poor women hostage for this long? Let them go.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

COMMENTS

HE primary responsibilities of a state include security of life and properties of its citizens, protection of their rights and reconciliation of differences that naturally exist between groups. The task of the state is made relatively easy because of its monopoly of coercive use of force. But the Nigerian state has in the last 14 years been hijacked by PDP war lords, and their militias including the Niger Delta militants, Boko Haram, state sponsored assassins and ‘kidnappers for rituals and kidnappers for ransom’. The state which is today at war with itself because PDP and its gangs thrive more under anarchy, has lost its invincibility. We spent about a billion dollars a day on security. But it is with grief and deep sense of shame we watch 12 ill-equipped police officers allegedly deployed by the state to provide security for a repentant militant gang leader burying his mother in the creeks of the Niger Delta, brutally murdered, bodies burnt and remains buried in shallow grave by a rival gang. Several days later, no arrest has been made. In Bama, Borno State, Boko Haram militants freely moved around setting police stations on fire, and liberating jailed criminals from prisons. From there they moved unchallenged into a military barracks where they were finally repelled but not without a harvest of 55 deaths. Barely 24 hours later, the scene shifted to Elakyo, near Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital. An ill-conceived mission to “arrest members of Ombatse, cult including their priest, Baba Alakyo, reputed to have “ mysterious powers which could make him vanish into thin air within seconds” left over 60 ill-trained and ill-equipped police officers packed like sardines in nine vehicles murdered. We have not been told anyone has been arrested. Before these latest national embarrassments, Boko Haram had bombed the Abuja United Nations building, the Abuja police headquarters, churches, mosques, markets, motor parks, police stations and military college in Zaria killing scores of highly trained military officers. The president himself had relocated all his official public activities from the Abuja national stadium to the presidential palace. The harvest of deaths arising from Boko Haram’s mindless indiscriminate killings is put at about 3,000.

State at war with itself The truth is that Nigeria is at war with itself. It is now an open secret that the exNiger Delta governors gave political, economic and intellectual backing to the Niger Delta militants. It is also on record that the Obasanjo administration funded and armed a faction of the Niger Delta militant groups. His successor, the late president Yar’Adua granted amnesty and gave huge state resources in form of bribe to known enemies of the state We now also know, courtesy the Financial Times of London how President Jonathan has been empowering PDP sponsored enemies of the state with state money. Leading members of the groups were awarded multi-billion dollar contracts to secure of our water ways and protect oil pipelines while the navy remained underfunded and ill-equipped. And as for Boko Haram insurgency, we also have it on the authority of late General Owoye Azazi, former National Security Adviser to President Jonathan that Boko Haram was a product of PDP’s gang war. By sponsoring and sustaining lawless armed gangs, PDP undermines the role of the state as a neutral arbiter that guarantees ordered society through laws and rules. This is perhaps because PDP buccaneers thrive more under anarchy. The president himself became a PDP candidate by subverting his party’s zoning policy as enshrined in their constitution. He overcame resistance from political rivals from his geo-political zone such as Timipre Sylva, the former governor of Bayelsa and Rotimi Amaechi, the embattled governor of Rivers by abusing the spirit of the laws.

READ a news story in Thisday of Thursday, May 16 credited to Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, the national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as saying that the state of emergency imposed on Adamawa State is justified. Giving reasons for the justification, Tukur posited that as a border state to Borno, there is need to create a buffer zone so as not to allow insurgents operate in Adamawa. He further claimed that border areas in Adamawa share the same ethnic and religious affinity with Borno State, hence the need for the emergency rule in the state. With all due respect, I disagree with the justification given by the PDP chairman. I consider the reasons given as factually false and operationally illogical. In the first place, the four local government areas of Adamawa bordering Borno State are Madagali, Michika, Shelleng and Gombi. Apart from Shelleng, all the other three LGAs, and especially the communities on the borders, are predominantly Christian, or at least non-Muslims. It is therefore false to claim they share religious affinity with the Islamic insurgents. Furthermore, states of Gombe, Bauchi, Kano and Plateau also share borders with Borno and Yobe, and have much closer religious affinity with the Islamic insurgents than Adamawa. Besides, there are more violent attacks and killings in these states than in Adamawa. It would have been more logical to create this so-called buffer zone in these states than in Adamawa, or at worse alongside Adamawa. But to leave such states and clamp down on Adamawa does not, in my opinion, make any sense whatsoever. As far as I am concerned, there is absolutely no justification for considering Adamawa as deserving of emergency rule and the other states do not. While the reasoning is incongruous to the reality on ground, the action is out of all proportions to the violence or threat of violence in the state. It only gives the impression that it is political rather than strategic considerations that informed the decision to include Adamawa among the states for emergency rule. This has the tendency to politicize the exercise and ultimately defeat its essence. This must be discouraged at all costs, if the objective is to succeed. In addition, one necessarily does not have to be a lawyer or a judge to see that the act conflicts with the principle of necessity and proportionality under Subsection 33(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2011. Worse of all, the imposition of curfew from 6pm to 6am on the entire state by the military authorities is also in conflict with the principle of reasonability as enshrined in Subsection 41(2) of the 1999 Constitution. At this juncture, it is important to state other reasons why I oppose emergency rule in Adamawa. We are all living

We have seen manifestation of an abuse of the spirit of the law by the persecution of Justice Isa Salami for ruling against PDP’s serial election riggers, government’s handling with kid gloves, the children of PDP big-wigs who should be in jail for allegedly stealing billions from the state, the non-prosecution of criminals indicted by various probes but who instead of returning the loot they took from the state, are now scrambling to buy private jets and armoured cars. We can add the indicted PDP chieftains who have gone ahead to become senators or have been granted state pardons to give them an opportunity to contest for election into the senate in 2015. These are all manifestations of a state of anarchy. Other manifestations of PDP conspiracy against the state finds expression even in the policy thrust of successive PDP governments. The minister of finance for instance is an influential member of a government that awarded multi-billion dollar contract to sworn enemies of the state-repentant militants, to secure our water ways and guard our oil pipe lines. But two weeks back, the minister told the international community in far away New York that Nigeria was losing about 400,000 barrels of fuel to bunkerers in the Delta creeks resulting in the loss of about N1trillion, a quarter of our annual budget. Lamido Sanusi the CBN governor and chief executor of government monetary policies that have contributed to loss of job in the banking sector was lamenting about loss of jobs in spite of noticeable growth in the economy. The president on whose table the buck ends echoed the same

sentiments a few days later. Granted the problem of unemployment which economists predicted when we swallowed the IMF pill under Babangida was not Jonathan’s making, but his reluctance to bring to book those indicted for the derailment of the privatization and commercialization IMF inspired policy that failed to generate the projected seven million jobs make him culpable. While some of those involved in this assault on Nigerians are either part of government as advisers, ministers, contractors or lawmakers, government has maintained a criminal silence on the recommendations that some of the companies be returned to the state. The President and PDP decide who the enemies of the state are. By actions of the party and the body language of the president, they don’t seem to include those who allegedly stole privately raised funds in aid of a better equipped police, those who derailed the multi-billion naira ID card project twice and are now awarding another set of contracts; and those who colluded with a Chinese firm to rip Nigerians of billions from ill-executed Abuja and Lagos CCTV multi-billion naira project. On the other hand, people like Nuhu Ribadu who put Tafa Balogun, the former IG in chains, forced him to regurgitate the billions of police equipment and welfare funds he stole; made him account for his sins against his people after rejecting his $15million bribe is enemy of the state. Consequently, the late President Yar’Adua, Jonathan and Okiro, the then IG demoted Ribadu, retired him and chased him out of the country. But Okiro has been compensated for being a friend of the state by being recycled back as the new chairman of the Police Service Commission. The president and PDP action is a bizarre demonstration of a state against itself.

‘By sponsoring and sustaining lawless armed gangs, PDP undermines the role of the state as a neutral arbiter that guarantees ordered society through laws and rules’

Issues in emergency rule in Adamawa By Umar Ardo witnesses to cries and accusations of extra-judicial interrogations, detentions, tortures and killings of innocent persons by the operators of emergency rule since the eruption of insurgencies in the North in 2009. We have also witnessed the morbid disruption of normal economic, social, political and religious activities in states affected. No person would wish such for their states. While we all crave for insurgencies and terror acts to be nipped in the bud, we cannot accept the violation of people’s rights or innocent persons losing their lives on account of anti-terrorism measures employed by the authorities – because we know that terrorism can be obliterated without necessarily getting society suffer all the negative effects outlined. A counter terrorism measure that limits or derogates from human rights, like the right to freedom of movement can only be reasonably justified in a democratic society if and only if it can be shown that the limitation or derogation do not deprive or threaten to deprive citizens of their economic, social, religious or political rights, and more so if such deprivation or threat to it can create conditions conducive for the spread of terrorism. In other words, the operators of emergency rule are duty bound to apply the principle of necessity and proportionality in their measures to proffer solution to terrorism. That is why I oppose the imposition of curfew on Adamawa from 6pm – 6am by the military authorities in the state. The order is clearly insensitive to the religious rituals of our people. Such restriction of movements as contained in the order will blight citizens’ rights to worship. For the Muslims, they cannot perform three of their obligatory [Magrib (sun set), Ishah (night) and Subha (morning)] prayers. I believe it will also hamper on some Christian denominations and faithful who undertake late evening and early morning congregations. This curfew period, therefore, certainly would be unacceptable to such believers, most especially the Muslims, and can generate cause for friction with authorities rather than the desired cooperation. To this end, I call on the military authorities in Adamawa to reconsider the curfew period while the state of emergency lasts, suggesting instead a period from 8pm – 5am. This would allow all reasonable congregational prayers over; and will help engender people’s cooperation and avert conflict with emergency rule operators.

We all acknowledge that the adverse effect of terrorism in our society is direct and substantial, i.e. it endangers the rights to human life, to personal dignity, to liberty, to freedom of movement, conscience and worship, to pursuit of wealth and happiness, etc. However, it is not contemplated and acceptable that measures taken to counter terrorism should have adverse impact, in the same way terrorism has, on the lives of citizens, or activities of society. If that happens, then it becomes a double jeopardy to the people. The primary duty of government to rid the society of terrorists and terrorism is not more sacrosanct than its duty of protecting the lives and property of innocent citizens, and maintain peace and harmony in the society. In carrying out this responsibility, the federal government must not only be able, but also must be seen to be able, to effectively balance the two elements. Finally, to attain this balance, all actions must be taken to ensure that Nigeria complies with Resolution 60/288 of the United Nations Global Counter-terrorism Strategy in which member-states are required as a matter of necessity to take measures aimed at addressing conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. Such measures, according to the resolution, include the entrenchment of rule of law in public matters, preventing and punishing of violation of human rights, enhancing the welfare of citizens, reduction of poverty in the society and ensuring that all measures employed to counter terrorism comply with obligations of International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law and International Refugee Law. •Dr. Ardo a PDP stakeholder, writes from Adamawa State

‘We all acknowledge that the adverse effect of terrorism in our society is direct and substantial, i.e. it endangers the rights to human life, to personal dignity, to liberty, to freedom of movement, conscience and worship, to pursuit of wealth and happiness, etc. However, it is not contemplated and acceptable that measures taken to counter terrorism should have adverse impact, in the same way terrorism has, on the lives of citizens, or activities of society’

THE NATION

EDUCATION

THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

INSIDE

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com

email:- education@thenationonlineng.com

It is a tough mandate, but it is achievable. Former Education Minister Mrs Oby Ezekwesili wants Lagos State to lead the way in making Nigerian pupils rank among the best in the world. Governor Babatunde Fashola has promised to deliver on the challenge before leaving office in 2015, reports KOFOWOROLA BELO-OSAGIE

JAMB CBT curtails malpractice SOME candidates who took the Computer Based Test (CBT) option of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) on Saturday were disappointed that the exam went without hitches. -Page 27

One Day Governor’s ‘next level’ FOR spelling the word Thaumaturge correctly, Boadley Juwon Afolarin broke a tie and lifted the trophy for the 2013 Spelling Bee Competition organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Education last Wednesday. He was presented with a cheque of N250,000 and cartons of Indomie by Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, co-sponsors of the event at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, venue of the nerve-racking grand finale that involved 52... -Page 39

CAMPUS LIFE •An eight-page section on campus news, people etc

Divided by soccer

Soccer is an emotional game. While players are displaying their skills on the pitch, their fans are busy on the stands, making comments and snide remarks which sometimes cause friction. Also, the referee’s action, at times, could spark a fight either on the pitch or on the stands. Last week, there was a fight on the pitch during a soccer game at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) in Imo State. -Page 29

• Participants at the summit.

Creating world-class pupils ‘ I N two years, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola would have left office, but what will be his education legacy? This challenge was thrown by former Education Minister, Mrs Oby Ezekwesili at the Third Lagos State Education Summit 2013. The theme was: “Qualitative Education in Lagos State: Raising the Standard.” Mrs Ezekwesili challenged Fashola to ensure that the performance of pupils in public exam improved beyond what it is now before he quits office on 2015. Taking up the challenge, Fashola pledged to improve pupils’ performance in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) from 38.5 per cent to 70 per cent. Mrs Ezekwesili, the keynote speaker, identified the areas where the government has done well to improve education against the backdrop of poor performance in the country in general. She said learning outcomes in Nigeria, which has 17.8 per cent (10.5 million) of the world's population of out-of-school children, is poor; basic education (primary and junior secondary) does not deliver the requisite literacy, numeracy and life skills to learners; while teachers are unqualified or under qualified, as

Your commitment to pushing the reform because it matters for the poor must have staying power. You owe the poor more than any political commitment. I have tried not to tell you anything unique. What I have done is to reinforce the excellent thing you began to do. All you need is bigger ambitions; you need to set bigger goals. There is nothing wrong with doubling the performance for this year

well as poorly trained, making them unable to deliver quality education. She also said Nigeria pays insufficient attention to Early Childhood Development and Education. While she lamented the bureaucracy in government that has hampered educational development at the federal and state levels, she praised Lagos State for instituting reforms that gave birth to the Eko Secondary Education project, which is supported by the World Bank, to

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provide grants directly to secondary schools to meet infrastructural and training needs, and improve learning outcomes. She said the project has done a lot to cut out bureaucracy that has caused inefficiency in public administration. Through its "Adopt a School" initiative and the revamping of Technical and Vocational Education, Mrs Ezekwesili praised the state for leveraging on the gains of Public Private Partnership (PPP) to develop the education

sector. She said this is in line with global best practice, as governments world over are realising that their noble intentions and funds are insufficient to meet the needs of the citizenry, underscoring the need for private sector partnerships. With these and other reforms, including increased funding and infrastructural development, Mrs Ezekwesili said Lagos State has been able to improve the performance of its SS3 pupils from 10.44 per cent in 2007 WASSCE to 38.5 per cent in the 2012 edition of the examination. She said credit passes in English Language increased from 46 per cent in 2008 to 88.29 per cent in 2012; while Mathematics improved from 45 per cent to 81.85 per cent; and Biology from 33 to 61.25 per cent. Though commendable, Mrs Ezekwesili said the performance was not good enough to achieve global competitiveness. She charged the governor to double the goal and improve efforts to achieve better outcomes. "June 2012 was regarded as the litmus test for the Project as the first cohort of Senior Secondary School year 3 students under the Lagos Eko Project sat for the externally •Continued on page 26

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION ACE FILE

Encroachers get ultimatum THE management of the Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo has given a two-month ultimatum to occupants of land that fall within the range of 30 metres radius from the Federal road to the college land. They are to vacate the areas before the ultimatum expires, hence the management might be compelled to take further actions. In a circular to the occupants, the college frowns at the indiscriminate setting-up of unauthorised stalls/shops along Ondo-Ore highway towards the institution's main gate. The stalls and shops are built, next to the school fence. The circular reads in part: "The college authority is of the view that in line with existing construction rules and standard practice on major roads, a distance of 30 metres is expected to be left as a right of way as recognised by law."

Corps member launches projects A corps member, Miss Kediehor Fole has inaugurated the community development projects she undertook during her service in the college. Mss Fole erected a billboard campaigning against pre-marital sex and unwanted pregnancies at the college's Demonstration Secondary School and renovated a dilapidated classroom at the Adeyemi Public Primary School, Ondo. The corps member financed the projects with the support of friends and others who believed in her. Representatives of the college management, the National Youth Service Corps, Ondo State Education Board, staff and pupils witnessed the inauguration. They expressed delight at Miss Fole's commitment to impact lives during her one year stay in Ondo town. The Deputy Provost Dr Olufemi Olajuyigbe, also praised her for completing the projects which he believes would add value to Ondo Kingdom.

Essay contest to reward 24 winners PRIZES are up for grabs for 24 junior and senior secondary schools pupils who emerge winners at this year's Kenneth Imansuangbon Annual Essay Competition, holding on Saturday in Abuja and the three senatorial districts of Edo State. Chairman, Organising Committee, Mr Segun Awogbade, said six winners (three from each category) would emerge from the Abuja centre, while 18 winners would emerge from Edo State. The pupils would be writing on the topic: "Security, Peace and Unity". The competition, in its fifth year, was initiated by the Chairman, Pacesetter's Academy, Abuja, Mr. Kenneth Imansuangbon, to help improve the reading, research and writing skills of pupils. Awogbade said the sponsor would invest about N3.5 million in cash prizes for the 24 winners, in addition to laptop computers. The first prize winners in both categories would receive a cash prize of N100,000; the second, N60,000; and the third, N40,000. The winners would also be invited to a dinner at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, along with their parents and teachers on June 28.

• Mr Sachdev (middle) declaring the fair open

India schools woo Nigerian students

NDIANS are now looking to enroll Nigerian students in their tertiary institutions. With a 15 per cent international students' quota to fill, the institutions are hoping that eligible Nigerian students, who lose out of the admission process locally due to space constraints, would consider India for affordable tertiary education. For two days last week, more than 12 Indian institutions participated in an education expo hosted by the Indian Embassy on Victoria Island, Lagos. In addition to charging tuition fees far cheaper than what obtains in Europe and America, the popular destinations for Nigerian students, some of the institutions promised prospective students scholarships, quality education service delivery, and assured them of affordable living expenses. •Continued from page 25

administered WASSCE examinations in June 2012. Results recently released indicated that 38.53% of students who sat for the examination obtained five credits and above including English Language and Mathematics as against 10.41% at baseline in 2008. But you can see that it is still not way close to enable students to be global competitors. "Your commitment to pushing the reform because it matters for the poor must have staying power. You owe the poor more than any political commitment. I have tried not to tell you anything unique. What I have done is to reinforce the excellent thing you began to do. All you need is bigger ambitions; you need to set bigger goals. There is nothing wrong with doubling the performance for this year. If we have a dysfunctional education sector and we ignore it, we ignore it to our own peril," she said. With Governor Fashola agreeing to raise the standard as recommended by Mrs Ezekwesili, the goal is set for the next two years for the education sector in Lagos state. For the goal to be achieved, stakeholders in the Lagos State education sector said all the state needs do is to follow Mrs Ezekwesili's recommendations to continue with the reforms, and more importantly, improve teacher quality. To this end Fashola has said the state would do more to train its teachers so they can deliver. "It is the training of our teachers

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

Some of the institutions present at the expo included, SRM University, Chennai; Galgotias University, Greater Noida; Symbiosis International University, Pune; BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore; Don Bosco Institute of Technology, Banbalore; VAG Group of Educational Institutes, New Delhi; and R.R Institutions, Bangalore. Representative of SRM University who also doubled as the Head, Middle East and Africa, Samiullah Khan said the institution is a private university that ranks among the top 10 in India. He said the institution which accepts the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations (NECO) Council SSCE results from Nigerians as entry quali-

fications, has over $200,000 earmarked for scholarships for those who meet the merit benchmark. Khan added that students could also secure jobs before graduation as over 170 companies flood the institution, scrambling for their hotcakes graduates. "You know India is known for ICT, and we have over 170 companies that come to employ our students. All SRM students get jobs before graduation. The students join the company even before graduation, and the companies recruit and train them while they are still in school. The companies move the training to the school rather than having it in their offices because we have the facilities," he said. Galgotias University in Greater Noida is offering students affordable education in a well planned city. Head of its International Relations

Unit, Anita Charles, said cost of living is low while Nigerian students who take up offers will learn a lot from the international community of over 5,000 students. "Greater Noida is a well-planned city, but it is not crowded. There are over 80 institutions in that city. It is also a big plus because up to 5,000 international students reside there. The cost of living is affordable. There are a whole lot of Nigerians in India. It is true that the climate, culture and food are different but that is also an important aspect of education for inter-cultural learning," she said. Another representative, Anita Patankar of Symbiosis International University, said students seeking good quality education in Management and Law can be rest assured to get it in her institution. While at $5,000-6,000, Symbiosis is one of the high end universities in India, Patankar said students can be rest assured they are getting quality. Other institutions, such as Vag Group of Education Institutes, which runs eight institutes charges only 1,200 for tuition, books, ID card, exam fees and free English-speaking seminar; Bharath University on the other hand, charges $130,000 for Medicine for four-five plus years. Some of the students, who attended the exhibition, said they were willing to travel to India for their education because the Asian country is known for expertise in Information Communications Technology, as well ad the affordable tuition compared with private institutions here in Nigeria. A parent, Mr. Tunde Adelanwa said he wants his daughter to travel to India to study because of the space constraint in Nigeria. "She finished her secondary school education with good grades two years ago but up till now she has not been given admission into any university," he said. In his address, the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, Mr. Mahesh Sachdev, said the advantage of Indian institutions is that they offer quality and affordable education that is globally-recognised.

Creating world-class pupils that we are going to do. In the last three years they have spent the long vacation in training at the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC) in Magodo. We are already planning this year's training. Once the vacation starts, their training will start," he said. To further improve teacher quality, Comrade Kayode Idowu, the Chairman Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) said the government should set about pursuing policies that would enhance teacher quality right from the way they are hired. He said: "It is not about money, but there are other incentives that should be given to teachers in order for them to improve on their productivity. I believe the Lagos state government was listening when she said teachers are at the center of the reforms. I believe when they go back to the drawing board they will also be able to implement those things that will make the teachers happy; that will bring the best brain back to

education. Don't forget that she also mentioned the way of recruiting teachers into the teaching sector. That means if the process of recruitment is faulty, then you cannot get the best from the socalled teacher that would be employed." However, beyond what government does, former Deputy Governor, Mrs Sarah Adebisi Sosan, who was instrumental to the adoption of the Eko Project while she was in office, said teachers must invest in their own development. "They have to ensure that in addition to training opportunities government put in place, they should also invest in their development. Sometimes it just about N20,000 for you to go for workshops, seminars; and they have to avail themselves of what they can on the internet; invest in IT facilities. Even from the comfort of their rooms they can access information. I am sure many of them, people are watching what they are doing. They are being

‘I believe it is the steps they are taking now that will help achieve the goal. For instance, the governor is holding meetings with the commissioner, permanent secretary, and tutor-generals every month. If that happens, they are able to tell him the situation of things so that he will know how to address problems’

motivated now; and I am sure they will get more motivation," she said. On her part, former chairman, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LSUBEB), Mrs Oluwagbemiga Benson, said the only way for the government to achieve such audacious goal is for the governor to continue to personally monitor what goes on in the sector. "I believe it is the steps they are taking now that will help achieve the goal. For instance, the governor is holding meetings with the commissioner, permanent secretary, and tutor-generals every month. If that happens, they are able to tell him the situation of things so that he will know how to address problems. He (Fashola) is telling us he will supervise us at the highest level. With that everyone will be on his/her toes," she said. Strengthening school administration and supervision at the grassroots is also crucial to achieving the government's goals, Hon Olalekan Majiyagbe, Education Secretary, Agege Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), said. "The LGEA should be well repositioned to meet challenges. They should be more empowered. The bureaucracy is much. The agents involved in monitoring schools are too many. There should be collaborations between SUBEB and the LGEA to reduce the number of monitors so the teachers will not be afraid," he said.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION FUNAAB FILE

VC gives account THE Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof Olusola Oyewole, has given account of his stewardship since he assumed office, nearly a year ago. In a short presentation entitled: Moving FUNAAB forward to become a worldclass University at the first congregation since the beginning of his administration, Oyewole said that he has been guided by the vision to promote visionary leadership, empower the workforce, promote quality and excellence in the university's focus areas, among others. Oyewole said the administration has provided focused, transparent, and disciplined leadership which has aided the entrenchment of a stable university calendar, courtesy of the concerted efforts of all.

Varsity to sign MoU THE management of Embrapa, Brazil and the FUNAAB are to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on staff and students exchange. The projects between both institutions tagged: Africa-Brazil innovative market place, is expected to reduce the nation's expenses on wheat importation through the use of millet in baking bread and sourdough technique to improve the baking potential of nonwheat flour. Researchers working on the project are: Marcos Jose O. Fonseca and DSC Antonio Gomes Soares (representing Embrapa Brazil), and Adewale Obadina and Abdulrasaq Adebowale of the Department of Food Science Technology, FUNAAB. The project is titled: "Nutritional properties and health functionality of wholegrain millet sourdough (millet adding value).”

JAMB CBT curtails malpractice •JAMB official, YABATECH worker trade words

OME candidates who took the Computer Based Test (CBT) option of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) on Saturday were disappointed that the exam went without hitches. Candidates had little room to cut corners during the exam, because each candidate was assigned a computer and on logging in, had to answer questions as randomly provided by the computer. While two candidates sitting side by side could have the same subject combination, they would not come in the same order, and the questions would not be the same. One candidate, who wrote at the Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka said that the exam seat was hotter than the hot seat of "Who wants to be a millionaire", the TV game show hosted by Frank Edohor. "There are no life lines, no option for phone a friend or ask the audience," he said. Another candidate who said she came from Badagry

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie and Medinat Kanabe

the previous day to ensure she made it to the centre on time, added that with this system, JAMB is sure to reduce malpractice. "There are a lot of invigilators inside, so you can't even talk. We were hoping that there would be problems with the CBT, which will compel JAMB to give all of us 250 each as a win-win situation. But this is actually encouraging because you face your work. The malpractice will be reduced. It is better this way. You cannot cheat, you cannot jump from one subject to the other, and there is no expo," she said. Many of the candidates who wrote the CBT exam were compelled to choose the option because the PPT centres were filled up. However, even for those who were not computer literate, taking the CBT exam was no problem. "It is not difficult. If you can use a phone, you can do the CBT," one candidate said.

•Some of the candidates at the CITS centre in UNILAG

The examination started on schedule at the two centres in the University of Lagos - the electronic Testing Company, eTC, centre, and the CITS, the university's ICT centre. Biometric verification gave no problems in the centres. However, there were some candidates who registered for the Dual Based Test (DBT) option that were sent away because they ought to

Blue House wins SOBOYEJO (Blue) House, has won the inter-house sports competition of the FUNAAB Staff School. It emerged tops with 227 points. It was followed by Julius Okojie (Green House) in the second position with 207 points, and Nimbe Adedipe (Yellow House) in the third with 192 points. The Chancellor's (Brown House) trailed behind with 186 points. The games brought out the best in the pupils, who featured in various events, such as march past; 500 metre race; 75 metre race and picking the balls. Other games included: lime and spoon race, filling the basket, blind fold, early to school, shuttle relay race and 4 x 100metre relay race, among others. The Headmistress, Mrs Florence Alade, said this year's edition was remarkable, because for the first time, the competition held at the school's permanent site.

• Pupils of Opebi Grammar School, Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos during a seminar organised by the Youth Rescue and Care Initiative (YORCI).

Macmillan marks Literary Day

RIMARY and secondary school pupils got a chance to air their views about Nigeria during the Seventh Youth Literary Day organised by Macmillan Nigeria Publishers at the Muson Centre, Lagos. Participants drawn from 10 primary and secondary schools competed in traditional dance and playlets depicting various ethnic cultures. Their performances were on the theme: Nigeria our Tears, our hopes. Their presentations urged Nigerians to live in unity and embrace other cultures for peace and harmony to reign. St. Bernedette Nursery and

By Sampson Unamka and Seun Adeyemo

Primary School, Gowon Estate, Lagos came first in the primary category, while Dejkol Nursery and Primary School, Ojo emerged first runner up. In the secondary category, Foucos Secondary School, Ebute-Meta won, while Igbobi College, Yaba came second. Chairman, Macmillan Publishers, Bode Emmanuel said the theme portrayed the fact that there are hopes for Nigeria in the face of her daunting challenges provided the views of the youth could be given more attention.

He said: "At Macmillan, we firmly believe that our dream for a better Nigeria must not die, neither shall our collective efforts be in vain. We must look beyond hopelessness, frustration and despair and see the bright light ahead." A retired Professor of the University of Lagos, Sophie Oluwole described children as Nigeria's hope. She canvassed the teaching of local languages and History. "It (history) is the way forward because understanding ones past, and what is good or bad in it will aid the development process," she said.

have written their exam on April 27 with the Paper and Pencil Test (PPT) candidates. Many claimed that they heard the exam was postponed. An official at the eTC centre alleged that those who came had done the DBT, found that they failed, and then tried to play smart by coming back, claiming that they heard the date was postponed. "They came here but we called JAMB and they said DBT had already been written so we sent them away. They were many, but I didn't note the number," she said. JAMB Supervisor at CITS, Mrs Zainab Hamza, said the DBT candidates who came could not have claimed ignorance of the date of their examination because it was printed on their slips. "Some DBT candidates came, but we sent them back because the date is on their slips," she said. At the FCE (Tech), Akoka, Lagos the JAMB Supervisor, who did not wish to be named, said a DBT candidate was allowed to do the biometric verification, but was rejected by the computer; another candidate who registered for the CBT had the number she claimed was her own. Meanwhile, it was chaos at the Yaba College of Technology, (YABATECH) centre as a JAMB official and a YABATECH worker almost fought in one of the centres in the polytechnic. Trouble started at the YABATECH digital centre, one of the venues of the exam, when candidates could not log in after power went out and was restored.

Director of the centre, Mr IK Oyeyinka, claimed the JAMB program was not working; this angered the JAMB official. The official said it was not the JAMB platform but YABATECH server. But Oyeyinka, absolved YABATECH of any culpability, describing JAMB programme as 'rubbish.' This also irked the JAMB official, who cautioned Oyeyinka to watch his tongue. But Oyeyinka was more inflamed, calling the official unprintable names this necessitated the latter to order him out of the premises. Oyeyinka who never knew this interviewer was a reporter fumed: "I was trying to explain to him that the Dual Based Test was done here without any problem; but the introduction of the Computer Based Test, we are having problems logging in. He refused to accept his fault and told them to throw me out. Why would he say I should be thrown out of my office? This is my digital centre," Oyeyinka fumed. While the drama lasted, some candidates who had become worried started to protest that their time was being wasted as they had stayed idle in the hall for over an hour. However, the other centre at YABATECH was peaceful and candidates from the second centre finished their exams on time. Some candidates who had remained hitherto idle from the problematic centre were moved into the hitch-free centre at 1.45pm to commence the CBT.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION LearnAfrica advises NECO candidates

ADO POLY FILE

New Council resumes MEMBERS of the Ninth Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti have commenced business pledging to leave the institution better than they met it. Former Edo State Commissioner for Education, Mr Victor Ebomoyi chairs the council while Mrs Omowumi Olatunji, Mr Yinka Ibrahim, Prince Badeji Abikoye, Chief John Enyi, Prince Afolabi Ayinuola and Alhaji Mohamadu Abdu Bunza are members. Since resumption, the Council has had four days of meetings with members of the polytechnic and host community, including the management, unions, alumni association; the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Governor and speaker of Ekiti State, and Aare Afe Babalola, founder, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD). At ABUAD, Chief Babalola thanked God for the opportunity given him to serve the Polytechnic as the Governing Council Chair when it was moved to Ado-Ekiti.

16th convocation postponed THE 16th Convocation of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti earlier billed to hold on Saturday, has been postponed till further notice as a result of the ongoing national strike by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP). Addressing a press conference the Rector, Mrs. Taiwo Akande, said the decision was taken following a joint meeting between the governing council, the management and representatives of the three labour unions in the polytechnic. She added that the decision to postpone the event was taken to ensure the full participation by members of staff. "Council decided to postpone the Convocation to a later date after the national strike is over," she said. On the financial cost of the postponement, Mrs. Akande said the cost incurred in printing publicity-related items was better than dealing with other social and heavier costs if the programme was held.

• Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dame Alice Lawrence-Nemi, presenting laptops to Ambassador Nne Furo Kurubo Model Secondary School, Ebubu, Eleme, at the launch of the state’s free laptop per child project.

Oyedepo pledges support to Rwandan students

HE David Oyedepo Foundation will support students of Rwanda with scholarships. Making the pledge while receiving Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Joseph Habinezer, Bishop David Oyedepo, who is the Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State said the gesture to be extended to qualified candidates, is part of the foundation's contribution to the development of the country which suffered terrible genocide in 1994. Since it happened, Habinezer said the country, led by President Paul Kagame, has made efforts to educate its people, including providing nine-year free basic education for all. He noted that the country had changed from what it used to be, to become one of the fast growing economies in the world. The High Commissioner, who noted that new generation churches have been helping in the development of the nation, particularly in education, requested that Bishop Oyedepo should visit the country to ascertain the level of development. Responding, Oyedepo, who was impressed by the development in the country, said: "No nation develops beyond the level of education of her people. "If we invest half of what we in-

vest in politics in education, there would be massive transformation. The moment we play down on education, we start going down.” He added that the developed nations got to the levels they are through investment in the education of their citizens. He was happy that Nigeria is towing that path through private in-

vestment in education. Dr. Oyedepo hinted that Covenant University has been part of educational revolution in Africa and her graduates are giving special consideration in their postgraduate education overseas because of the academic excellence and moral value displayed at such institutions.

HEAD of the June/July Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (SSCE) conducted by the National Examinations Council (NECO), which starts on June 1, the LearnAfrica Education Development Foundation has advised candidates to study hard and shun all forms of examination malpractices. The Foundation, which is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of Learn Africa Plc, a publishing and learning resource company, gave the advice in a statement signed by the Head of Marketing, LearnAfrica, and overseer of the foundation, Mr Allwell Nwankwo. Wishing the candidates success, Nwankwo enjoined them to aim for excellence through hard work and diligence. He said: "Candidates should avoid all forms of distractions and apply themselves assiduously to their studies. They should also stay away from examination malpractices as any academic foundation built on fraud cannot stand the test of time." Nwankwo added that handsome rewards await the best three candidates in each state in the exam to be presented at this year’s edition of the LearnAfrica-NECO Excellence Awards.

NUC warns against unapproved programmes been well-prepared to face global challenges. Unlike products of Federal-owned tertiary institutions which Amaga claimed, are not justifying the billions invested by the Federal Government, the Salem graduates were groomed to be employers. The clergic said despite that the government spends billions of naira on federal institutions, 80 per cent of graduates of these institutions are halfbaked. On the contrary, he said Salem University not only imparts academic knowledge on the students, it also empowers them by promoting their natural abilities, enhancing their practical skills, through cre-

ative learning and cutting edge research aimed at offering solutions to human need. "The university is graduating 95 students in various disciplines, who will not carry their certificates begging for jobs, but instead becomes employers. As I am talking with you, one of our students has already got a multi-million naira IT contract with an international firm," he said. Earlier, the institution's Vice-Chancellor, Prof Joseph Adeola Fuwape, said the graduating students constituted proud fulfilment of the vision of Salem University to produce graduates who are worthy in learning and character for outstanding leadership and global impact. He said the students graduated from the Colleges of Information and Communication Technology, Natural And Applied Science as well as Peace and Social Science.

Earlier, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented by Deputy Majority Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly, Lola Akande, lauded SWAN members, saying their philosophy tallies with that of New Era Foundation, which has executed various empowerment

programmes for youths. Mrs Tinubu said the Spelling Bee contest, which the Foundation began in 2001, to enhance English language proficiency students, has reached its 13th edition and has produced winners, who are doing well in various fields.

•Salem varsity graduates 95

HE National Universities Commission (NUC) has urged universities to adhere strictly to the terms and conditions of their licences and approved guidelines. The Executive Secretary, Prof Julius Okogie, gave the warning through his representative, Prof. Bisi Balogun, at the convocation of Salem University, Lokoja, Kogi State. He urged the universities to desist from running unapproved programmes as the agency would not hesitate to sanction any institution found wanting. Ninety-five students graduated at the convocation, who the founder of the university and General overseer of the Foundation Faith Church, Archbishop Sam Amaga, said have

From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

SWAN gives career tips in accounting

HE Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has counselled female pupils of some select schools in Lagos State on the benefits of accounting as a profession. The event held at Maryland where the President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Mr Adedoyin Owolabi led other resource persons in various talks to the girls. Owolobi, who was represented by Dr John Enahoro, advised the girls could achieve their dreams. He said students, who are interested in becoming chartered accountants need to know the prerequisite subjects which qualify them to sit for ICAN examinations. He said chartered accountants “command very high respect” in the society and that there is employment for them. Their role, Owolabi added, gives them the power to positively impact on people. He said ICAN has made available into scholarships categorised in Gold, silver and bronze for aspiring chartered accountants faced with financial constraints. In her address on the theme: Ac-

By Adegunle Olugbamila

countancy: A noble profession, Mrs Uchenna Erobu, a Senior Partner, Akintola Williams Deloitte, said the girls could become chartered accountants regardless of whether they are from poor or rich backgrounds. Citing herself, Mrs Erobu recalled how she and her siblings had a turbulent time as children - with her having to hawk to augment the family income. She said her dream which started when she was in her secondary school, was achieved as a university undergraduate, and opened opportunities for her. “As soon as I became chartered, juicy offers started coming from all directions. I knew instantly that I had to abandon school to look for a job to take care of my siblings. And no sooner did I leave school that opportunities began flowing in, and good money too,” she said. She said rather than sell their bodies to men, all it takes is seriousness and dedication to attain the career of their dream. Mrs Bukky Akinmoladun, who spoke on: ‘Students’ success through

•Participants at the event

time and money management, warned the girls to be astute managers of time, saying they shoud imbibe the four Ps-Planning, Perseverance, Persistence and People. “Time is static; you cannot add to it or take away from it. But you can manage it," she said.

Protest disrupts exam

*CAMPUSES

‘Take a bow and go’

Page 31

*NEWS *PEOPLE *KUDOS& KNOCKS *GRANTS

Page 34

THE NATION

CAMPUS LIFE 0805-450-3104 email: campusbeat@yahoo.com THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.net

email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

Some students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) in Imo State, last week, clashed during a football match. What is the round leather game turning to? GERALD NWOKOCHA writes.

Divided by soccer S

OCCER is an emotional game. While players are displaying their skills on the pitch, their fans are busy on the stands, making comments and snide remarks which sometimes cause friction. Also, the referee’s action, at times, could spark a fight either on the pitch or on the stands. Last week, there was a fight on the pitch during a soccer game at the Federal University of Technology, Oweri (FUTO) in Imo State. The match was between the Biotechnology and Biochemistry departments in the ongoing tournament of the Nigerian Association of Science Students (NASS). The game ended a 1-1 draw. After the referee’s final whistle, players from both sides exchanged punches in a free-for-all. The match, played on FUTO Primary School pitch, was part of the activities marking the Science Students’ Week. CAMPUSLIFE gathered that a member of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) from Biochemistry Department, John Achike, was at the centre of the commotion. Uche Dominic, 500-Level Physics, said the referee’s decision led to the fight. He said: “When the match was almost over, a defender in Biotechnology department team fouled on the goal line but the referee simply looked away and later issued a yellow card to the player. Instead of awarding a penalty to the Biochemistry side, he allowed the Biotechnology players to play a kick out.” The decision angered John and his colleagues from Biochemistry department, who allegedly hit the referee with a stick. Our correspondent learnt that the Biotechnology players, moved to rescue the referee and a fight broke out. In the ensuing melee, stones and wood were freely used by the students. John, who denied attacking the ref-

•Biochemistry and Biotechnology students exchanging punches after the match

eree, was overpowered by some Biotechnology students and was almost beaten to a pulp before a Man O’ War official, rescued him. The NASS Director of Sports, Ismael Abudu, was also mobbed. He was accused by students to have allegedly compromised the referee. But Ishmael denied the allegation in a telephone conversation with our correspon-

dent. On the same day, another clash broke out in Prince and Princess Hostel in Ihiagwa community. Fans of Chelsea and Benfica football clubs went violent after Benfica lost in the Europa Cup final. Chigozie Anumudu, a resident, told CAMPUSLIFE: “About 80 per cent of occupants are Chelsea fans. The rest

support other European clubs. Chelsea supporters contributed money and organised a party, fans of other clubs joined. When the students came back from where they went to watch the match, they were disturbing others, who were reading. This led to a fight in the hostel and everybody was afraid.” To mark Chelsea’s victory, Jude

Agbasi, a student, feted all students, who came to watch the match at Kenfloor Kitchen and Viewing Centre in Umuchima, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. Jude was said to have spent over N70, 000 on drinks and food bought •Continued on page 30

•OAU gets new Registrar, Bursar •Gunmen abduct ASUU chair-P32

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

Pushing Out

Now that educational tourism has come to stay

with

Agbo Agbo 08052959489 (SMS only)

N the process of writing today’s article I called up some undergraduates to authenticate some facts I had and to ascertain if they have professors or lecturers on sabbatical on their campuses. I was shocked when all of them did not hide their ignorance about what sabbatical actually meant. They were honest enough to tell me they simply couldn’t say what the term meant; this is the sad place we find ourselves today meaning we have serious work to do. As I turned the flipside of the issue, should I really hold our undergraduates responsible for their ignorance? Yes and no. Yes because they ought not to wait for anyone to teach them but strive to be knowledge seekers which invariably is what the university system is all about; and no because our varsities are no longer attractive for visiting professors from outside our shores to come for their sabbatical leave, so if there are no professors on sabbatical - some will argue – how then will undergraduates know what it is? It is against this backdrop that I want to address a new lexicon that has entered our vocabulary because of our peculiar situation: educational tourism. Educational tourism is the marketing and sale of a product or service which main purpose is to disseminate knowledge, in one form or another. It involves the collection of knowledge, both local and specialized, from which a well-defined product is created, which is then developed and marketed. Even the most casual observer would have noticed the series of education fair taking place almost on a daily basis, Nigeria is now one huge ‘untapped market’ for education tourists. A worrisome data I came across recently said Nigerians allegedly spend an average of $500 million annually on European and American universities, which represents about 70 per cent of the total allocation to all federal universities in 2008. In the United Kingdom, over 20,000

•aagboa@gmail.com students are said to be undertaking various courses there. Ian Stewart, a member of the British parliament, was quoted by a British Council Report published a few years ago as saying that by 2015 the number of Nigerian students studying in British universities will reach 30, 000 and would constitute seven per cent of the entire university student population in the United Kingdom. Stewart went on to say that this is significant and, of course, that Britain should make the most of the opportunity. The British Council report said: “Calculations are based on a number of factors including the poor quality of Nigerian universities and the rapid growth in the number of families that can afford to send a child overseas to study.” Sadly, everyone knows that Nigeria has the wherewithal and human capital base to create at least a few decent and qualitative universities; but for some inexplicable reasons we just cannot, so why would others not cash in on this. Britain, for one knows this and they did their thorough home work. They knew that the growth and prominence of both tourism and education as key industries over the past few decades has led to growing recognition of these sectors from both an economic and social perspective. It may also be argued that developments in the tourism industry during this time, allied to changes in education, have seen the convergence of these two industries. Education increasingly enables or facilitates travel mobility and learning has become an important part of the contemporary tourist experience. In this unprecedented global economic time, the Tourism Alliance - comprising 50 Tourism Industry Organisations that together represent some 200,000 businesses of all sizes throughout the UK - highlighted the fact that the UK will be

Divided by soccer •Continued from page 29

in the restaurant. To reciprocate the gesture, Manchester United (Man U) fans promised to entertain Jude if their club won its match against West Brom United last Sunday. The game ended in a 5-5 draw. Though, Man U won the English Premier League (EPL) but the draw did not go down well with the club’s fans, who had promised to reciprocate Jude’s gesture. Angered by the development, Jude was said to have engaged some Man U fans in a fight at the viewing centre. The quick intervention of security operatives and natives of the community calmed the situation. Ken Nwankwo, manager of the viewing centre and owner of Kenfloor Kitchen, described the incident as unfortunate, saying the disagreement would have turned to “total disorder.” “I was so excited when my club won,” Jude, who is studying Landscape Architecture, told CAMPUSLIFE, adding: “I planned travelling to Onitsha last Sunday to see my parents but I decided to stay back and watch the match because I wanted Chelsea to win. After the match, I wanted to travel but the Man U fans, who I bought drinks for, pleaded that I should wait till Sunday for them to entertain me. I had to call my parents that something came up in school and they believed me. My stay was a waste.” Students, who spoke to

CAMPUSLIFE, condemned the fanaticism of some students over the round leather game. Ifeany Nwaiwu, a Computer Science student, said: “The manner with which people watch football matches nowadays makes me to hate the game. I would rather die playing it than go to watch it. I was almost attacked with a broken bottle when a fanatic thought I was supporting Chelsea. “Why should people go to that extreme because of European clubs that do not even know if we exist?” Emmanuel Okereke, another student, said: “In a world that is full of sadness and bad news, football has been the medicine to cure our miseries. But while I will not condemn anyone for supporting football clubs, I rather hate the fanaticism with which many of these guys go with it. We don’t need to fight. Football is supposed to unite us and not divide us.” “Most people supporting teams and squandering their tuition on celebrating their teams’ victory are not serious. They don’t know they are wasting away gradually. With the level they are engaging themselves in clashes now, only God can save these fanatics. It shows football is getting dangerous,” Daniel Nwankwo, 300-Level Transport Management Technology, said. Jonathan Unaegbu, 400-Level Chemistry, said: “I don’t like football at all. The reason is that I see it as a waste of time. I gain nothing from it. I would rather sit in my house and watch a nice documentary than be involved an unproductive venture.”

faced with two crucial issues: ‘maintaining employment and generating sustainable economic growth’. This proclamation comes at the same time as the Government’s Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) published its higher education blueprint document - Higher Ambitions. As we all know most European countries are passing through difficult economic times with unemployment rate soaring and this framework for universities acknowledges that higher education has been a success story and sets out the important role universities must play in securing the country’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity. For instance, total spending by international students on all types of course in the UK - from English language to doctoral degrees - was estimated to be a whopping £14 billion with the potential to grow to £21 billion by 2020. The industry is seen as one of the keys for rebuilding the UK economy and for generating employment, especially where it is most needed such as in rural communities or among young school-leavers. In 2011, inbound tourism revenue grew at over 5 times the rate of the economy as a whole while it is estimated that domestic tourism revenue ended the year 14% higher than 2010. In total, this is additional expenditure in the sector of £3.8bn – enough to generate 76,000 new jobs in 2011 alone! Did you get that? We were instrumental in creating jobs for British citizens while we have millions roaming our streets in search of elusive jobs. The British are very smart people; they know that as the global landscape changes more students would travel and study abroad, boosting their tourist industries. Not only will friends and family come to visit them while studying, but students are likely to spread the news of their positive tourism experience to other travelers and return for future visits. In essence, they become “brand ambassadors” for Britain to the detriment of their home country. Is it only Britain that is cashing in on our woes? Certainly not, Ghanaians must be jubilating wildly for failure to get our act together. Recall that the Chairman, Committee of Pro-chancellors of Nigeria, Dr. Wale Babalakin, first alerted the nation last year to the fact that over N160billion annually is expended by Nigerian parents to educate their wards in Ghana, this he said, is higher than what our government votes annually for

education. With over 75, 000 Nigerians studying in universities in Ghana for 2012, the Ghanaians would simply not believe their luck. This figure is bound to soar this year in the light of the recent revelation that of the almost 1.7 million Nigerian youths that sat for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, only 520, 000 will be admitted to our universities. A more desolate picture of the status of the educational system emerges, when you factor that less than 750, 000 out of the 1.7 million scored 200 and above in the exam. In other words, there is both a crisis of quality and a quantitative shortage of facilities, bedeviling the once world-class system of Nigerian education and opening the floodgate for other nations to swoop on us like vultures feasting on a decomposing animal. You think it is only the Ghanaians that are cashing in? Wrong, you only need to travel to Benin Republic and Togo to realise that universities are set up basically for Nigerians with full-fledged faculty members from Nigeria. The obverse side of educational tourism is the exposure of impressionable Nigerian youths to other countries and cultures which often comes with a price tag which includes their being taken advantage of by unscrupulous operators. There are reports on how unethical private university owners in Ghana exploit Nigerian students, sometimes by issuing certificates in the name of an established university and transcripts in the name of another virtually unknown private university. Don’t get me wrong, studying abroad undoubtedly has its own merits, including opportunity to attend top-class universities in different cultural settings and, of course, brighter international career opportunities, but what about our home front? Unfortunately, much of the resources of the universities, which should have been used to rectify these anomalies end up as recurrent expenditure – payment of salaries and spending on non-capital projects. The precarious situation is ever bogged down by poor funding as well as ill-conceived, inconsistent and outright failure of government policies. For instance, the 2013 budget’s allocation of N426.53 billion to education, though a drastic improvement over those of past years – is still a far cry from a bail-out.

‘Slow and steady win the race’ Julius Adeniyi has been sworn in as president of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA). The 400-Level English Education student told SEGUN ODUNAYO (100-Level Political Science) how the union would help project the institution’s image.

OW do you intend to affect the lives of students during your tenure? My utmost priority is to see students improve academically. We will also cater for their welfare just as we did when we pleaded with the management to extend the deadline of school fee payment; the closing date was extended by one month. That is just the beginning of good things to happen in our administration. Considering the slim margin with which you won the election, how do you intend to win the support of your opponents? Since the slogan of the union remains unity in diversity, I believe the opponents will see reason to join hands with us to improve on what we met on ground. This is not my union; it belongs to all of us. But some of them have come to meet me with great ideas and we are really working on them. The management has said its vision is to build a 21st century institution. How does the union intend to help this cause? We are elected officials. As such, we are required to also have programmes for the personal and academic development of students and the school itself. Surely, we will discourage any view that may plunge the campus into unnecessary crisis, which may jeopardise the efforts of the management in

•Julius

achieving its aims and objective. We will keep faith with the three C’s principle of consolidation and consultation before confrontation. But the management has taken the union as a partner in progress. This I believe will not result in misunderstanding of issues. Students living off-campus have been facing the challenge of epileptic power supply. How does the union intend to respond to this? We must know that irregular power supply is a national problem, which is beyond the management and the students’ union.

However, the nonchalant attitude of the host community should also be condemned because we have made several moves to end this but they have not been supporting us. We told them to allow connection of Akungba power line to Iwaro community, but they have not been listening to us. We are, however, working towards getting the problem resolved. What do you have to say on the dearth of shuttle bus to convey students to school? We have complained about that also but the management said the buses were faulty. Later, they told us that the buses would be given out on contract. But we are working on getting the union’s buses to convey students to the campus daily. Is the view that your administration is slow correct? There is no way there will not be antagonism when it comes to politics. Since many people believe in the burn-and-destroy kind of politics, people like me are strange to such belief. We believe slowly and steadily, we will win the race. There were students that threatened violence if the registration portal was not opened before the extension was given. I told them to relax because we have a listening Vice-Chancellor. Immediately, the students felt our efforts. We don’t believe in causing

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE The first semester examination of the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State was disrupted on Monday following the barring of students who have not paid their school fees from writing the examination. MODESTUS DIKO and AMINAT POPOOLA report.

Protest disrupts exam

LL was quiet at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, on Monday because of the impending exam. Suddenly the atmosphere became tense as the “no school fee, no examination” directive of the government was enforced. Two students were said to have died in the ensuing melee. The management, in a statement, denied the death story, saying none of the protesters was hurt. It said only students, who met the deadline and had confirmed their payment status, would be allowed to write the first semester examination, which was to begin last Monday. The Secretary to the State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa, last weekend, in a statement, said government would bar students that owed cumulative school fees from taking the examination. The government advised students who have not completed the registration to do so or stay away from school. The government, Adeoluwa said, had compelled the university authorities to postpone the examination three times to allow all students to regularise their payment records. He noted that five categories of students were identified in the audit report submitted by the Olusegun Osinowo Visitation Panel set up in 2011 to review the academic situation in the institution.

•OOU students in a recent protest

According to the panel, the first category of students included those who were properly registered, had matriculation numbers and had paid their school fees up to date. The second category included students, who had matriculation numbers but requested the school to allow them pay their school fees in installments. The third category identified in the panel report was the students, who had matriculation numbers but had continuously defaulted the school fee payment terms over the years with the claim that their parents could not afford to pay. The fourth category included students who were mainly in 300-Level and 400-Level, but who did not register or pay school fees for the previous academic years. This category had been directed by the Governing Council, in line with the National

Universities Commission (NUC) guidelines, to apply for reinstatement of their studentship which had lapsed as a result of their non-registration for one or more academic sessions. The fifth group, according to the panel report, consisted of students without matriculation numbers, who were not registered as bona fide students of the university. Having reviewed the situation, Adeoluwa said the government regarded those in the first category as the only set of qualified students, who would be allowed to write the semester examination. The school fees ranges between N70,000 and N150,000 per session, CAMPUSLIFE learnt. The government’s directive affected mostly freshers and their colleagues

in 200-Level. They were asked to defer their admission following their inability to pay the school fees. All final year students, who are yet to pay the fees for the last session, would be made to spend extra year, while 300-Level students that are yet to pay for the previous two sessions would repeat back to 100-Level. Students, who were barred from writing the examination, gathered to protest on the campus. They prevented their colleagues in Faculty of Law, who were filing into a hall, from writing their examination. To prevent the situation from degenerating into a chaos, riot policemen were drafted to the scene. The policemen were reportedly led by the Area Commander of Ijebu Ode Command, who met with the students to leave the campus. Ada-

mant, the protesters were dispersed. According to a student, who pleaded anonymity, the policemen fired tear gas, which resulted into pandemonium as students scampered for safety. Some students, including the president of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Ayokunle Omojola, were said to have been injured in the chaos. Efforts to reach the police Public Relations Officer, Mr Muyiwa Adejobi, were futile as he did not pick his calls at the time of this report. A statement by the Acting Registrar, Mrs O.A. Osunsanya, reads: ”The attention of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) has been drawn to the libelous report that lives of some students were lost during a recent protest against regularisation of studentship, which disrupted arrangements for the 2012/2013 Harmattan semester examinations. “The management wishes to categorically state that there is no iota of truth in the report as widely circulated in the social media networks. “The general public is advised to be wary of the antics of some mischief makers, who peddle false information capable of damaging the reputation of Olabisi Onabanjo University. “Management advises parents and guardians to closely monitor the activities of their wards to prevent them being recruited by detractors of the university. “Members of the university community and indeed, the general public, are assured of the return of normalcy to the campus. All registered students should note that the reschedule examinations will hold as announced.”

Remembering the ‘Offa Poly Four’ Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa (OFFA POLY) have remembered their colleagues, who were killed in a clash with the vigilante group of the institution’s host community 13 years ago. AKINOLA OLUYI (ND II Mass Communication) reports.

AY 8 remains a sad day for the students of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa (OFFA POLY). In 2000, what started as an argument between students and members of Offa Vigilante Group in an off-campus hostel escalated into a clash in which four students died. The polytechnic came under siege as students and members of the town’s vigilante group clashed, forcing the management to close down the institution for more than six months. When the dust settled, four students were killed; scores escaped with injuries. Muhydeen Bankole, Abdullahi Kabiawu, Emmanuel Adeagbo and Nurudeen Ayinde were the casualities. Thirteen years after, students of the polytechnic have remembered their slain colleagues. Every May 8 is set aside to commemorate the “efforts” of the deceased, who students said fought for their freedom from the polytechnic’s host community. “The likes of Kabiawu, Emmanuel, Nurudeen and

Muhydeen may have gone but their memories still linger in our mind,” an Engineering student said. The mayhem, CAMPUSLIFE learnt, ensued when the vigilante group imposed a ban on students from visiting certain places in the community and restricted their hours of movement to 9pm. It was gathered that the vigilante also told the students to always put off their hostels’ light at night. Students rejected the imposition, describing it as an assault of their liberty.This resulted into argument, which later turned bloody. Akinniyi Jegede, who was in ND I Mechanical Engineering at the time, told CAMPUSLIFE: “When I got admission in that year, the polytechnic was peaceful. There was nothing like crisis of any form. But when we resumed for the second semester, the vigilante tried to impose some order on us; they issued information that all student in the community must stay indoor starting from 9pm. We disagreed with them and protested. Many lives were lost, even properties were destroyed in the school. We lost students. It is a

•Students in a procession across Offa community in remembrance of the colleagues

memory I will never forget.” Remembering the slain students in a programme held in Adesoye Hall on the mini campus with the theme: Only the land of peace germinates the seeds of progress, students, who were clad in black clothes, held lit candles to mourn their fallen heroes. During the memorial lecture, former Students’ Union Government (SUG) president, Mr Mashood Bello Igbin, said the crisis that brought about the remembrance was as a result of the misunderstanding, misconception and misinterpretation. He said despite pleas by the management and the SUG at that time, members of the vigilante group stormed the campus to destroy

properties and kill students. He called for mutual understanding between security outfits and students, praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased. Speaking, the SUG president, Hammed Omuiyadun, said it was necessary for people to always remember their heroes. “We mourn the martyrs of freedom from the shackles of oppressors. Truly they were the sacrificial lambs for the present liberty being enjoyed by the students of the institution. We love you all but God loves you most, adieu,” Hammed said. Matthew Fabusiwa, ND 1 Mass Communication, said: “Despite the fact that I was in secondary school during the crisis, I was aware of the damage the crisis caused the commu-

nity. It saddened the heart because we were shocked when the news spread that many students had been killed. With these, I am sending my condolence to the families of the deceased. God will give you the heart to bear the loss. Security agencies should always engage in dialogue rather than using lethal weapons against us.” Michael Ijiyede, HND II Mechanical Engineering, advised the management to always support the remembrance, which he said served as a means to further make sacrifices to society. Other highlights of the occasion included candlelight procession across the host community. Also, the students gathered to pay tribute to the slain students at a location on the campus.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE Students fled as fire guts hostel

T was 5:30pm last Saturday and students were relaxing in their rooms. Suddenly, the shouts of “Fire, fire, fire…” rented the air. The scream came from the IB Block, a female Hall of Residence in Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS). In no time, occupants of the hostel barged out of their rooms, moving in different directions. Before the fire could be put out, a room had been completely burnt. The fire, which was said to have started in the hostel’s matron office, was said to have been caused by faulty electrical appliance. The office could not be accessed at the time of the incident because the matron, who was with the key, had left the office. Ceiling of the common room was also affected. Smoke bellowed from the affected room as the inferno raged, burning the ceiling cardboards. In the ensuing chaos, many students struggled to move their valuable properties out of their rooms, while

From Halimah Akanbi UDUS

male students rushed to the scene to help put out the inferno. The students climbed the top of the building to remove the roof made of zinc sheets in order to put out the fire. The Acting Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the university arrived at the scene with security officers, who came with fire extinguishers to extinguish the inferno. One of the occupants of the burnt room, Shafa’atu Danjuma-Baba, said she was in her room when she perceived a smell of a burning wire. “I quickly disconnected the electrical connection in the room but I realised that the bulb and the ceiling fans were still working,” she said. She said shouts of “fire” from her roommates alerted her that there was problem. “We all ran out for help,” she added. Many students were affected by the smoke. Three female students were rushed to the school clinic.

•Students making effort to put out the fire

When CAMPUSLIFE visited the university health service department in

respondent access to see the affected students.

Students hold week

OAU gets new Registrar, Bursar

HE Governing Council of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has announced the appointment of Mr David Oladotun Awoyemi as the Registrar and secretary to the Council. The university also appointed Mrs Josephine Akeredolu as the Bursar. A release by the Public Relations Officer, Mr Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that while the appointment of Akeredolu took immediate effect, Awoyemi’s resumption would be effective from June. Born on January 23, 1959 in IleIfe, Awoyemi attended Osogbo Grammar School between 1970 to 1974 before proceeding to the then University of Ife, where he obtained a degree in Philosophy. Awoyemi, who joined the service of the university on August 9, 1982 as an Administrative Officer II, was until his appointment the Director of Academic Affairs. He worked in all the units of the Registry department and rose to the level of Director in charge of Academic Affairs in 2008. He also served in the Vice– Chancellor’s office from 1986 to 1990, Centre for Energy Research and Development from 1996 to 1998. Between 2005 and 2006, he worked at the College Secretary Office of the Postgraduate College

the evening, a nurse said the students were hale but denied our cor-

•Awoyemi From Sikiru Akinola OAU

and the Centre for Distance Learning of the university from 2007 to 2008. Awoyemi has attended and delivered papers and reports at several conferences, workshops and seminars both within and outside the country. He is also a member of different professional organisations. Mrs Akeredolu, who hailed from Badagry in Lagos State, joined the services of the university as an Accountant II on August 9, 1982 and was posted to the cash office and the Bursary department. In October 1986, she became an Accountant I and was posted to the Expenditure Control of the Bursary department. She rose through the ranks to become the Deputy Bursar, then acting Bursar before being appointed

•Akeredolu

as substantive Bursar. She is a member of several professional institutions. Born on the November 8, 1956, Akeredolu attended Our Lady of Apostles Primary School in Lagos between 1962 and 1969, before proceeding to the Holy Child College, Ikoyi, Lagos between 1970 and 1974. She also attended Federal School of Arts and Sciences, Victoria Island, Lagos between 1976 and 1978. She studied Accountancy at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and graduated in 1978. She proceeded to Toronto School of Business, Canada, where she obtained a Diploma in Micro Computer in Business Application in 1989. She also has a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, in 2002.

TUDENTS of Business Management Studies at the Samuel Ajayi Crowther University have held their Fun Week. The event was held for four days. This event was put together by the Social Director of the National Association of Business Management Studies, Miss Damilola Oseni, a 300Level student. The programme started with awareness on dress code tagged Back to school. Students of the department, who were dressed in secondary school uniform, marched round the campus with school bags and notebooks. The following day, a seminar was held in the university auditorium. The guest speakers, who included Mr

From Funke Ayoola AJAYI CROWTHER

Adeyemi Mapaderun, a company executive, and Mr Obitunde Obiyemi, chairman of Ekiti chapter of Career World Consulting Ltd, spoke on Challenges and opportunities for strategic entrepreneur in Nigeria. Lecturers and students of the department attended the lectures. On the third day, students went on an excursion to Erin-Ijesha Waterfall. Students described the experience as educative. The event was ended with a Variety Night, which comprised music performances from upcoming artistes such as Malique, Rainymilly and Shaddy. Awards were also presented students.

Career fair for students

CORPS member serving in Enugu State, Tosin Adesile, has floated a career fair for graduates and students with a view to proffer solution to the unemployment challenge facing the nation. The fair is billed to be attended by the Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Tunde Lemo, who would present a keynote address on Opening new grounds: Breaking the barriers of unemployment through sustainable development. The programme will be chaired by Sen. Adegbenga Kaka. Other speakers include Prof Raheem Bello, Online Editor, The Nation newspaper, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin, Dean of Social Science Faculty, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof Omololu Soyombo, Mr Gbenga Adeyinka, Sir Prince Niyi Olatidoye and Seyi Law, all comedians, will be at the occasion. The Ogun International Career Market (OGIOCM) is a career building programme designed to rescue frustrated youths from the grip of unemployment. The participants will

From Funke Ayoola LAGOS

be taught how to turn idea to moneyspinning venture. The programme, which is coming up on June 13 in the main auditorium, UNILAG, would afford job seekers and prospective entrepreneurs opportunity to meet employers of labour and gain motivational tips from successful people. Tosin, a Mass Communication graduate from UNILAG, said the programme had been designed in a way that people who were ready to break free would be the ones to benefit from the programme. Expected participants at the event include post graduate student, members of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, graduates and other categories of job seekers who want to generate employment for others. Highlight of the event will include business talks and motivational lectures. Gifts would also be won at the event.

Gunmen abduct ASUU chair

•Dr Olorunwa Towolawi (third right) with Mr Mohammed Saheed Salawu (first left); Chief Jelili Akinlabi (second left); his father, Mr Afolabi Towolawi (third left); Chief Peter Famoroti (second right) and Mrs Fausat Towolawi after he was inducted as a dentist at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba...last Friday

HE Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT MINNA), Dr Abdulfatai Jimoh was on Friday abducted by gunmen in Ibadan while he was going to an international conference being held in honour of Dr Oladipo Fashina, a lecturer in the department of Philosophy, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). He was kidnapped alongside the union’s Financial Secretary, Mr Ganiyu Olanrewaju, at Macmillian bus-stop in Ibadan at about 6:45pm. The duo was dumped in a forest near Ogun State, where the police later found them.

From Temitayo Ayetoto OAU

The gunmen made away with Jimoh’s official car, a Sienna 2005 model, which contained several documents including his laptop. The items were yet to be recovered at press time. Jimoh explained that he left Minna on Friday morning for the conference en route Ibadan as it was a shorter way to get to Ile-Ife. “I don’t believe I won’t be dead by now because we were attacked by four hefty armed men. If it is not the assigned time for a man to die, he would not die,” a bemused Jimoh submitted.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE Muslim students tasked on time consciousness

USLIM students have been advised to manage their time effectively for the attainment of success. This charge was given by the chairman, Conference of Islamic Organisations (CIO), Mallam Abdullahi Shuiab, at a symposium held by Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), University of Lagos (UNILAG) College of Medicine, Idi Araba. The annual programme was tagged Islam Propagation Week. Shuaib, who spoke on time management, took the students through the importance of managing time and adhering strictly to one’s set goals. Noting that proper time management is pivotal to success in life, he listed responsibility, commitment, confidence, curiosity, optimism, courage, risk-taking, determination and ingenuity as elements of success.

•Students busy packing their belongings after the rainstorm last Monday

From ThankGod Eze ADAMAWA POLY

of the victims were destroyed. The affected rooms were flooded, trees in the hostels uprooted, causing damage to the structure of the hostel buildings. While the incident lasted, the campus was in commotion, with many watched helplessly as water carried their mattresses and materials away. Students lamented their fate. Jerusha Musa, an English language student, told CAMPUSLIFE that she remained in prayers as the storm raged on. She said: “The wind was too much. Nobody could move anywhere because trees were falling down and the roof sheets were flying about. I could not move; I was just praying. Everybody was shouting. It was a bad experience for us because we never expected such thing at that odd hour.” At 6am, some of the affected stu-

dents protested at the Rector’s residence. But Dr Umar Boboi, the Rector, was said to have travelled to Saudi Arabia for lesser Hajj. Our correspondent gathered that the protesters were addressed by the Deputy Rector, who called for calm, promising that the hostel would be rebuilt. Abdulazeez Yusuf, ND II student, said he thought the end of the world had come. “The storm was the least we expected. I was sleeping when it happened. I quickly ran out of my room almost naked. When I got out of the hostel, I saw some trees uprooted, then I remained in the common room.” Meanwhile, the management has shut the campus for two weeks and ordered students out of the hostels for renovation work to start immediately. The semester examination has also been postponed to allow the victims of the storm to regain their strength.

Department celebrates lecturer

HE department of Philosophy, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has honoured its lecturer, Dr Oladipo Fashina, which the students of the department described as “most outstanding scholar”. Fashina, a former national chairman of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), who is called Jingo by his admirers, is known to have spearheaded the struggle for the liberation of the Nigerian university system. A lecture with the theme: Nationalism and economic justice in Nigeria was held in his honour at the conference centre, OAU. Fashina joined the University of Ife, now OAU in 1979. After his secondary school education at King’s College Lagos, he proceeded to earn a Masters Degree in Philosophy from the prestigious Leningrad State University in Russia and a PhD in Philosophy at the University of California, Los Angeles. The Head of the department, Dr J. O. Famakinwa, described the honouree as a distinguished teacher, an excellent scholar, an intellectual colossus and unrepentant Marxist, who he said is highly principle and a selfless. Famakinwa noted that the history of the university system in Nigeria would be incomplete without mentioning Fashina’s name, saying the relative comfort being enjoyed in the universities today is an offshoot of his efforts alongside other members of the ASUU.

From Temitayo Ayetoto OAU

Dr. Famakinwa said: “In the department of Philosophy, Fashina taught all the lecturers currently on the staff list. It is our collective belief that he deserves this honour. This conference is a token to a man who spent his entire life rendering a selfless service to his father. It is in view of these qualities that the theme of the lecture was favoured by the Local Organising committee.” The chairman of the conference, Dr. Segun Osoba, described Fashina as a teacher, an activist and a public thinker, who embarked on his public service career with a commitment to duty and public interest, without any iota of calierism, a term he defined as monomaniacal and morbid obsession with self-aggrandizement and self-enrichment which makes it possible for a public officer to misappropriate government fund and resources for selfish enrichment. The keynote speaker, Barrister Femi Falana, lamented the dearth of justice and true nationalism in Nigeria, noting that justice of any form was only being enjoyed by the rich in Nigeria. Falana said: “We must take our destiny into our own hands and we can start from here and I beg we must start with the university society. Today criminals have taken over public discourse in our country. We must stop the university from giving doctorate degrees to all manners of criminals particularly public officers.

“We must tell the truth about this country, and academics are in the best position to do so. What the ruling class has done is to take themselves out of Nigeria as they are less concerned about the salient issues hunting the nation.” Falana concluded that challenge before the masses was to mobilise and organise themselves. The conference attracted notable personalities such as Festus Iyayi, Prof Friday Okonofua and the president of ASUU, Dr Nasir Isa Fagge.

Shuaib said successful students were blessed with the habit of acting professionally and being friendly with their instructor. “For you to manage your time effectively, you need to set goals that are realistic and achievable; break down tasks into steps; prioritise your programme and lastly most important avoid procrastination,” he told the students. The Amir of the society, Lagos State Area Unit, Alhaji Qazim Badrudeen, urged the students to be serious with their studies. He said they should aim high and work towards achieving their set goals. Badrudeen urged the students to take to what the lecturer has told them and start implementing them in their lives for them to achieve their desired goals.

Niger Delta students threaten agency

Rainstorm destroys poly hostels MIDNIGHT rainstorm has destroyed hostels and properties in the Adamawa State Polytechnic (ADAMAWA POLY), Yola, last Monday. Rooms in the affected hostels, Quarters 1, 2 and 3, were badly damaged after the storm subsided. The incident happened a week to the first semester examination of the institution, which is to start next Monday. CAMPUSLIFE gathered that students were sleeping when the incident, which left the roofs of the hostels blown open by the wind, occurred. The storm sent many of the occupants scampering, with many moving their personal effects to hostels stores and common rooms, which were not affected. Our correspondent learnt that five rooms, with the room number 8, 9, 11, 14 and 15, were badly affected. Each room had 11 students occupying them. Food stuff, O’Level certificates and note books

From Amidu Arije LAGOS

HE Niger Delta Students Union Government (NIDSUG) has threatened to disrupt activities of the Nigeria Local Content and Monitoring Development Board (NCDMB), should the agency fail to live up to expectation within a short period of time. The union spoke through its president, Tonbara Yalah, during a press briefing in Yenagoa. Tonbara said the union was using the medium as a wakeup call to the agency, whose board he said has been inefficient over the years. He equally noted that the board, which was established to improve the capacity of youths in the Niger Delta, had performed below expectation. In a the recent national conference held by the union in Yenagoa, students vent their anger on the board members when they visited the agency’s office at Revenue House, Lambert Eradiri Road, Yenogua. Activities at the firm were grounded as the students barricaded the entrance gate, took over the

From Emmanuel Ahanonu UNICAL

reception room and chanted solidarity songs. Mr Eugene Ozolua, Director in the firm, who spoke on behalf of the board’s Executive Secretary, Mr Ernest Nwapa, pleaded with the students to remain calm, promising that the agency would strengthen relationship with the students. Obedience Akama, one of the students, said: “The board is better liquidated if it will be inefficient. Each time their workers see any student around the office, they don’t him. They feel too big to even talk to us.” The president of the National Union of Izon Ebe Students (NUIS), Godwin Ogele, a student of Delta State University, called on President Goodluck Jonathan to purge the leadership of the board of “bad eggs”. Tonbara threatened: “Should the board refused to live up to expectation this time around, we will make sure we disrupt its activities to drive home our point.”

2face thrills UNIBEN students

ROWD of students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) were entertained when 2face, a Hip-hop artiste, stormed the campus as part of the his Campus Connect to universities across the country. 2face, whose real name is Innocent Idibia, stormed the Sport Complex of the university with a lineup of artistes including Sound Sultan, Crystal, Sasha P, Seyi Shey, Solod Star and EFA.

From Jacob Emorinken UNIBEN

The show, which started around 2:45pm, featured dance competition and performances by local artistes, who are students in the university. The venue of the show was filled to the brim as 2face doled out songs to the revellers. Students that attended the show described it as inspiring, confessing that the show would be an unforgettable experience for them.

ESSAY CONTEST FOR UNDERGRADS The Nation CAMPUSLIFE in collaboration with Blantyre newspaper, Malawi, AfricanLiberty.org and Network for a Free Society, is calling for entries into an essay competition. Details are as follows: Question: Nations which are economically free out-perform non-free nations in all indicators of well-being. Discuss. Eligibility: All students in any tertiary institutions (university, polytechnic, college of education and vocational school) in Africa. The format of the text should be in MS word and not more than 1,500 words. Interested student should please request for the background material from Adedayo

Thomas at adedayo.thomas@gmail.com, Wale at campusbeat@yahoo.com and Brian Ligomeka at bligomeka@bnltimes.com. On the first page of the completed essay, please write your full name, department, year of study and name of institution. Also include your email address and GSM line. Send your entries to adedayo.thomas@gmail.com. Entries will be received between March 28 and June 11, 2013. Entry sent after the deadline will not be accepted. Announcement of winners: July 18, 2013. All participants will get a free CD of “Ideas for a free society”, which contains 100 textbooks on various field of studies.

Prizes: 1st - $1,000 and scholarship to 2013 Student and Young Professional African Liberty Academy (SYPALA) in Kenya from August 8- 11, 2013 2nd - $700 and scholarship to 2013 Student and Young Professional African Liberty Academy (SYPALA) in Kenya from August 8- 11, 2013 3rd - $500 and scholarship to 2013 Student and Young Professional African Liberty Academy (SYPALA) in Kenya from August 8- 11, 2013 4th - $300 and scholarship to 2013 Student and Young Professional African Liberty Academy (SYPALA) in Kenya from August 8- 11, 2013 5th - $100 We have eight consolidation prizes of $50 each.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE Members of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) have visited the National Assembly to learn more about parliamentary process and governance. TOLULOPE OGUNLEYE (HND II Computer Science) reports.

‘Take a bow and go’

EMBERS of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) have visited the National Assembly to acquaint themselves with the legislative process. Led by the president, Olanrewaju Balogun, and Speaker Kehinde Olofintuyi, the students witnessed the plenary of the Senate and the House of Representatives. A few months ago, the students had embarked on a similar visit to the Lagos State House of Assembly and the legislative chamber of Kosofe Local Government Area. For the journey, the students converged on Aluta Mansion, the union building on the Ikorodu campus, about 5am, where a bus was waiting for them. For more than 10 hours, the students were on the road, chanting various solidarity songs as they approached the seat of power. At 8pm, they checked into their hotel rooms in Abuja to prepare for the next day’s activities. At 9:45 am on Wednesday, the students were received in the assembly complex by Mr Adedeji Alabi, the security officer in charge of educational excursion, who welcomed them on behalf of the Clerk of the National Assembly. Alabi told the students to conduct themselves well as they moved into the Senate chamber. At exactly 10:48 a.m., the procession of the Senate President David Mark moved into the chamber. The Chief Whip of the chamber cautioned the floor members against engaging in discussions that were not part of the day’s proceedings. Afterwards, a senator moved a motion to begin the proceeding; Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Lagos East,

•The students with Sen Adeyeye (in cap) and Sen Ashafa after their meeting in the assembly

seconded the motion. The legislative business started when Mark read letters from President Goodluck Jonathan on different issues to members. He recognised the presence of the students, who were dressed in their ceremonial regalia. The union members stood up and took a bow. As debates were going on in the Red Chamber, the union members were led to the Green Chamber to witness the proceeding in the lower house. They were recognised by the Speaker, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. After the plenary Senator Ashafa in company of Senator Olusola Adeyeye, Osun Central, met with the students in Room 1 of the assembly complex. Ashafa praised the students’ advising them not to lose focus on their goals. He also warned them against companies that could jeopardise their academic pursuit. Senator Adeyeye, deputy chairman of Senate Committee on Education, said he abandoned his engagement to attend to the students because he felt obligated given his position in the senate. He said the future of the country would be determined by the actions of today’s generation of students, saying education remained the compass to chart Nigeria’s course to a prosperous future. The Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr Olumuyiwa

•ACN lawmakers, Hon. Gbajabiamila, Hon. Balogun and Hon. Yusuf, with the students

Adejokun, who received the students in his conference room, described their visit as central of their development. Member representing Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, appreciated the courage of the students saying he was assured the future of Nigeria is safe “with the set of people I am looking

at here”. Other federal lawmakers from the Southwest that received the students included Hon. Hakeem Muniru, Hon. Dayo Bush-Alebiosu, and Hon. Lasun Yusuf. On what informed the visit Kehinde, told CAMPUSLIFE: “Increasing students’ knowledge in governance matter has been my

dream since I was sworn in as the Speaker. And this is what we have witnessed here today.” Kamoru Saka, the mace bearer of the union, said he acquired knowledge on how to properly discharge his function to the Students’ Representative Council (SRC). He said he believed the short story told by Senator Adeyeye would make an impact on his life.

Education students of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, went on an excursion to two historical sites in Osun State. OLUWAFEMI OGUNJOBI and WILBERFORCE AREVORE (400-Level Language Arts) write.

T was an expedition that will linger in the memories of participants, who visited historical sites

of Osun State. Students in the Faculty of Education, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, last Friday, converged on the Humanities car park, for a journey to Osun-Osogbo grove, a sacred forest, which forms the history of the people of Osogbo. Dr. Babatunde Adeyemi and Dr. Adesina Adegbenro, lecturers in the faculty, joined in the expedition. The students also visited Erin-Ijesha Waterfall, which is also known as Olumirin Waterfall. Olumirin is a mysterious cascade that is appreciated for its nature essence and warmth with several mountain tops, which stand at elevated feet. Osun-Osogbo grove, a dense forest, on the outskirts of the city of Osogbo, has endured since time immemorial. It is regarded as the abode of the goddess of fertility, Osun, one of the pantheons of Yoruba gods. The landscape of the grove and its river are dotted with sanctuaries and shrines, sculptures and artworks in honour of the Osun goddess and other deities such as Ogun (god of iron), Sopona (god of thunder) and Yemoja (mermaid) among others. At the Osun-Osogbo grove, the students were received by Mr Emmanuel

•Osun-Osogbo shrine

Adesiyan, who narrated how the sacred forest came to be. He told the students: “The Osun-Osogbo grove is among the surviving heritage of the sacred forests, which adjoined the edges of Yoruba cities before extensive urbanisation. The sacred grove, which is being seen as a symbol of identity for all Yoruba people, is probably the last in Yoruba culture. It testifies to the once widespread practice of establishing sacred groves outside all settlements.” The tour guide, Mr Yomi Afongbomoja, conducted the students round the locations littered

•Students listening as their tour guide conducted them round the site

In search of knowledge with frightening objects. He explained the myths surrounded the scary statues found in the groove. The interior of the groove contains deposit of statues of various shapes and sizes. There is also a shrine where Osun deity is being worshipped by its devotees. The students left the groove to Erin-Ijesha Waterfall. Located two kilometres east of Erin Ijesha town

along Ilesha-Akure road, the cascade is a beautiful scenery stationed in between mountains. Excitement suffused the air as the bus that conveyed the students stopped at the tourist site. The students embarked on climbing the mountains, but a few managed to get to the top. Many of them stopped half-way as they could proceed to the zenith of the seven layered summit. After several hours

of climbing, the students came down to play under the waterfall. As they were catching fun, music blared from a high-sound speaker set-up by a Disc Jockey (DJ) brought to the site by the students. Speaking to CAMPUS LIFE, John Adetola, 300-Level Language Arts, said: “This is certainly more than a excursion; it is pure fun. Although, I have gained a lot of things and I have just added to my travelling experience. The two places we visited are not just historical places; the classrooms for me to learn many things about my culture.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE

Can there be a society without lawbreakers?

“A

SOCIETY without law, can you?” is the muchtouted slogan of students studying Law at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS). Based on the experience I have gathered since my stay on the campus, I begin to wonder if members of the Law Students Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN) are truly loyal to the motto of the association. Over the years, lawlessness has been the order of the day, not only amongst the executive members of the association but the students in the university. Talking about numerous careless and intentional breach of simple school rules and regulations, there have been commotion at the school park where the students defy the orderliness as enshrined in students’ handbook given to us because they want to be transported at all cost. Of course, we can duly apportion some blame to the management for not properly carrying out its function to checkmate the activities of

the school cleaners but the students have shown that they lack proper home training in cleanliness. All the toilet facilities built with lecture rooms have been so unkempt because students use them leaving them clean after use. As the lectures go on, pungent odour of urine always wafts from the toilets to the lecture halls. Majority of the cleaners are don’t resume early to clean the toilets; they always come late, thereby asking students and lecturers to allow them to do their job while the lecture is on. However, not to lose focus of this discourse, it is very embarrassing seeing Law students violating school rules, when, in fact, they should have been the ones keeping faith with the law. Even the university dress codes, which were formulated to ensure law and order on the campus, some Law students violate it. If the military, police, fire fighters and so on can rightly observe the dress code of their profession, why not Law stu-

dents? Law students of other universities across Nigeria observe the dress code for law profession, but in UDUS, students violate it flagrantly. I still wonder why the management can’t enforce the codes. To say the truth, the prestige of law students can only be made known not by speaking big grammars and legal maxims to impress, but by obeying the law which we have chosen to study. The dress code law is a directive of the Nigerian Council of Legal Education, which mandates students of Law both in the universities and law schools to dress in white and black materials, being the colours of justice that signifies the truth in its absolute sense and nullifies anything in between. Following an awareness campaign on the dress code by the UDUS Dean of Faculty of Law, Prof M.L. Ahmadu, last February, the LAWSAN president placed a notice for all students of the faculty mandating them to observe the dress

code from Mondays to Thursdays. Some students are complying while others are not. Nevertheless, most lectures have mandated it on students to either obey the law or be absent from lectures. Meanwhile, some students and lecturers are of the opinion that the dress codes give room for female students to violate their religion’s dress codes, which may lead to chaos. Disproving this view, Prof Ahmadu, in an interview with campus journalists, urged people to be careful in causing religious arguments, which were baseless, saying the faculty was only trying to entrench decency and discourage indecent dressing. He also stated the faculty’s intention was to use persuasion rather than issuing sanctions in enforcing the codes. The foregoing shows that for every good intention anyone is trying to make in the society, some people will still dismiss and act to disparage the good Idea. If a law is to promote decency and orderli-

By Halimah Akanbi ness, why should we go against such law? Well, I am still dreaming of a Nigeria without lawless citizens. Halimah, 200-Level Law, UDU Sokoto

Vocational education as tool for national growth V

OCATIONAL and Technical Education has been defined in various ways by different authors. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Culturals Organisation (UNESCO) defined Vocational and Technical Education as a comprehensive term referring to the educational process when it involves in addition to general education, the study of technology and related science and the acquisition of practical skill and knowledge relating to occupation in various

By Omowunmi Sholademi

sectors of economic and social life. This form of education covers the process of producing skilled manpower for self-reliance and national development. Vocational education is part of total education given to individual in order to acquire the necessary skill and knowledge required for employment in a specific occupation. Nigeria as a developing country is highly endowed in both human

and natural resources, which is evident in its huge population prospering in various fields of human endeavour including agriculture and the farm product etc (Nanchen and Yacknan, 2007). As we continue to move towards a globalised economy, it is apparent that what matters is not how much natural resources a nation possesses but how much value it is adding to these resources, whether they are material or human. The only veritable and potent

Let us pray for Nigeria

technical and vocational education and training. This makes it necessary for Nigerian to put emphasis on this form of education as an indispensable element in capacity and competent building for social economy growth and development. This is so because technical and vocational education provides the skill necessary for self-employment and employment creation for others. Omowunmi is a postgraduate student, UNN

State pardon not an excuse for corruption

AM always irritated when some people say they have lost hope in Nigeria and that they have stopped praying for Nigeria. As hopeless and impossible as things may seem, we cannot afford to lose the hope. Nobody knows tomorrow. But giving up on Nigeria is 100 per cent guaranteed that nothing will change tomorrow. What chance is left when no one is concerned anymore about the country? If we all just focus on our individuality, positive change will not to accidentally take place. People have to consciously work towards it. I know there is always someone somewhere who is still hoping and praying but I believe we all need to be hopeful too. One thing I have learned in life is that being selfish does not pay. To have your life goals centered on what is going to get you ahead of other and make you successful and take care of your family is always against the societal values. People need to realise that, no matter how successful one may be, one will still be affected by the negative values in the society in which he lives. Is it not better to work towards improving the society as a whole so that your life and that of others around you and your children will be better off? As young people, time and event have placed responsibility of making Nigeria a better country on the shoulders of the youths. The elders have done their best but it is our duty to also show readiness to change the nation. There is no one else to be blamed or to assume the responsibility on where the country will be tomorrow except us. It is totally our job. If we go abroad to study and after our education, we settle there with our family to contribute to the country’s development and forget about our own Nigeria, we would have been doing a disservice to our country of birth. We are Nigerians and we belong here. Wherever we may find ourselves on the earth, it will only depend on us - and us alone -

instrument needed to add value to both human and material resources is technical education and training. This has been affirmed by (Benson, Lawrence and Bashiri, 2008) that technical and vocational education and training have been recognised in the world over as tools for alleviating poverty and enhancing technological development. Therefore, the salvation of a developing country like Nigeria particularly in this 21st century depends, to a great extent, on sound, relevant, modern and functional

By Esther Johnson what Nigeria becomes. We cannot afford to lose ties with our root. I believe all of us have a role to play in making our country a better place to live. We are faced with many challenges but nobody should try to tackle all the problems at a go. Nigeria is far too large and the systems are too complex. If each of us plays our part, I believe there will be positive changes in Nigeria. We just need to be committed to doing something about the positive causes we are drawn to with whatever skills we have. I also do not believe there are only singular routes for addressing each problem. We do not all have to be journalists to make an impact in journalism neither do we all have to be politicians to give Nigeria a better leadership. We can become exemplary leaders in our own right in whatever field we are in and with these positions come authority to make social and economic changes, even if they are indirect. Young people, let us not forget how privileged we are to be born in this generation. Let us do what is right and empower the generation coming after us through our sound education and expertise. And let us also not cease to pray for Nigeria. Esther, HND II Mass Comm., MUBI POLY

N the CAMPUSLIFE’s section of April 25, 2013, a fellow writer from the Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, Msonter Anzaa, wrote an article titled: Presidential pardon as an excuse for corruption. In the piece, the writer noted that after the jail term of Dieprieye Alamieyeseigha had elapsed, the former governor of Bayelsa State was reported to have been helping the Federal Government maintain peace in the creeks of the Niger Delta. He said President Goodluck Jonathan cited Alamieyesiegha’s personal undertaking as reason for granting him presidential pardon. My colleague described the pardon as “dubious”. My grouse: why should a writer use such language to describe presidential action? Why did Msonter choose to write and narrow his points to reflect sentiment? Why did he not tackle the issue dispassionately? The state pardon granted Gen. Oladipo Diya, the late Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, the late Gen. Abdukareem Adisa, Gen. Tajudeen Olanrewaju and others did not generate ‘national outcry’ except that of Alamieyesagha. Why should we fuss over Alamieyeseigha’s pardon; why did we not address if the pardon granted Diya, who called a press conference and demanded that Federal Government should re-open Oputa Panel report? It should be noted that Alamieseigha was convicted on cases of corruption but all the army generals pardoned were tried for treason, a grievous crime against the state, which is more harmful than sleaze. Even to some political forces and opponents of Jonathan’s administration, the state pardon was condemnable and glorified corruption. As the president is being called all sorts of names because of the state pardon, if those, who believed there was no cogent reason for

By Mark Orgu the pardon were to be in position of authority, we wonder what they would have done. Most time, I keep on asking myself, why so much hatred by most Nigerians towards the presidency? Jonathan granted a state pardon, what is wrong with that? Are they saying that the president should not exercise his constitutional duty to grant amnesty? Even the Lucifer sometimes has mercy on his servants. Those who are against state pardon of Alamieyeseigha are only out to score cheap point, which will not take them anywhere. My colleague, who referred to the state pardon as “dubious”, is ignorant of the precedent of such action in history. Msonter must know that former President Bill Clinton granted state pardon to 456 to Americans citizens while he was at the helm. Just to mention a few, Chris Harman Basley and Scott Lynn Banne, convicted on drug-related issues, were duly pardoned without much fuss from the Americans. Gen Yakubu Gowon said that the presiden•Continued on page 36

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE Council boss hailed on bursary

•Christian with other members of the executive being sworn in

Igbo students inaugurate leaders

DUMEGWU Christian, 300Level Public Administration, has been sworn in as the new president of Federation of Igbo Students (FIS), University of Calabar (UNICAL) chapter. The inauguration followed a keenly contested election held at Hogan Bassey Open Pavilion recently. The swearing in ceremony, which was held at the parliamentary hall, Malabo Republic, attracted large number of Igbo students in the institution including the president and vice president of Students’ Union Government (SUG), Bassey Eka and and Mercy Mbakwu respectively. Other students’ leaders at the event included Ekpo Tete, SUG Director of Welfare, Kelechi Nkoroh, outgoing president of the federa-

From Stanley Uchegbu UNICAL

tion, Emmanuel Ahanonu, National President of Nigeria Union of Campus Journalist (NUCJ), UNICAL council and presidents Igbo students in Abia, Anambra, Imo, Enugu and Ebonyi states. A lawyer, Barrister Prince Udoka, administered the oath of office on the executive members, which is led by Christian Odumegwu. Others officials are Chiamaka Onwugharam, Vice President, Kingsley Okeke, Deputy General Secretary, Anthony Okoye, Director of Socials, Priscilla Ulu, Financial Secretary and Nnaemeka Nwaele, Director of Welfare. In his acceptance speech, Christian expressed gratitude to the stu-

dents, who voted for him, stressing that his administration would focus on three cardinal objectives which are reviving, re-branding and restructuring of the association. He noted that his administration would not relent in encouraging and strengthening Igbo culture, which he said remained one of the riches in Nigeria. Kelechi, while giving account of his stewardship, expressed gratitude to God on the success of his administration and also thanked the students for giving him the mandate and support to serve them. President of National Association of Anambra Students (NAAS), Henry Ogbueziora, advised the executive members not to forget their academic pursuits as they discharge their duties.

EMBERS of the National Association of Obubura Students (NAOBS), University of Calabar (UNICAL) chapter, have lauded the chairman of the local government over the bursary they were recently paid by the council. The bursary grants was disbursed to all students who hailed from Obubura in various universities. The council chairman, Reverend Chris Obasse, who spoke through the Supervisor for Education, Louis Ikpan, said that the council decided to redeem its pledge made to the students during campaign. He said: “We are doing it for the fact that council thought it very wise that education is the key to national development and that it is the best legacy the government can bequeath to its citizens. So we have to do our best as to regards to that area.” He stressed that the council deemed its responsibility to ensure that the students received the bursary grants to motivate them to achieve excellence. Obasse advised the beneficiaries to make good use of the bursary, urging them to buy books to widen their knowledge. The NAOBS president, Bassey Nkanu, 400-Level Accounting, said

From Stanley Uchegbu UNICAL

that the union was grateful to the council for the gesture, which he described as a good one, saying that posterity would remember the leadership. He stated that the last time the students were paid was four decades ago. He said: “Immediately Chris Obasse came on board as the chairman of the council, things changed. He has redeemed the pledges made to the students of the council during his campaign; our bursary award has been paid.” Bassey advised the beneficiaries not to mismanage the money, urging his colleague to always apply the knowledge they to the challenges of life. One of the beneficiaries, Felicia Eforo, 300-Level Theater Art, said: “The money I have just received, I will use it to complete my school fees. I appreciate the local government for this gesture.” Mathias Ebingha, a final year student of Sociology, said that he felt excited after he got the bursary award. He said: “When I heard the news that the local government wanted to pay us, my heart was full of joy. The money I just received will be used on my final year project.”

On and Off Campus By Solomon Izekor 08061522600

•Obasse (third right) with some of the beneficiaries

State pardon not an excuse for corruption •Continued from page 35

tial pardon granted to the convicted former governor was facilitated by the Council of States, which took the decision based on the premise that Alamieseigha had finished his jail term for the offence he committed and had promised not to commit such an offence again. Also, the former Head of State pointed out that it was within the constitutional powers of the president to pardon any person he so wishes. I agree with Dr Rueben Abati, who said that most Nigerians were ignorant of the state pardon, because the pardon was done within the constitutional right of the president. If the president had gone out of the constitution, the criticism would have been torrential. They would have said he did not respect the constitution. Now, he exercised his constitutional power, they said he “over-exercise” his power. Let us not attach constitutional issue to emotional matter. For me, to err is human but to forgive is divine. In so far nobody is beyond mistakes, there should be ways to make amendment. That is what the

president has done for Alamieseigha and others granted pardon. Is it not John 8:3-11 that Jesus set an adulterous woman free, and told her: “Woman, as any one condemned you, neither do I condemn you to go and sin no more?” Even Qu’ran 39 vs 53 tells us: “My slaves, who have transgressed against themselves by committing evil deeds or sin, despair not of the mercy of Allah. Verily, Allah forgives all sins. Truly He oft forgiving and most merciful.” Therefore, all those who have condemned the president’s action cannot be proven to have no stain of corruption. Let them be aware that no man is sinless on earth. Let Nigerians drop their sentimental garb and free themselves from misguided utterances that are capable of dividing this nation the more. The state pardon to Alamieyesiegha did not in any way stop the fight against corruption or an excuse for corruption. Mark, 300-Level Business Education, Sch. of Technical Education, YABATECH

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION

Graduates to take employability test soon

FUTMINNA FILE

Lawmakers visit

•’JAMB CBT success crucial

GENERALISED test may soon be in place that graduating students of universities will take that would remove the need for the aptitude tests conducted by employers for recruitment purposes. The test, called Graduate Standardisation Examination, which would be some form of employability screening, would assess workbased skills including aptitude, ICT skills and integrity of the graduates. Mr Robert Ikazoboh, Managing Director of Dragnet Solutions, an IT company that provides technology solutions for e-testing, scholarship administration, e-recruitment, promotions and other services, said the test has enjoyed the endorsement of some key agencies and stakeholders and would soon become the standard. He added that Dragnet has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) "The National Universities Commission (NUC) loves the idea. So, ultimately, it will be positioned such that after their final exams, graduates do their employability test. It would serve for both full-time jobs and leave cover. "The Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) has said this multiple testing (conduct of aptitude tests by various employers)

•Ikazoboh (left) with Arek Bawa, Chief Operating Officer and Baba Ikazoboh, Head Biometrica International at the event By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

has to stop. The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has come in to provide facilities. Let us have one centralized testing platform for all graduate recruitment. What employers need is that they get profiled candidates, pre-tested to know their aptitude, level of ICT proficiency, integrity. What this test has done is to save them money spent conducting aptitude tests to screen candidates, and time, which can be as much as six months. "It also saves graduates a lot of stress. They do not need to travel up and down to take aptitude tests. The most they have to do is to go the NDE centres in the state capitals to take the test. We have this technology and the expertise; the MOU has been signed. As we speak, NDE is carrying out renovations of their centres so we can move in and deploy our CBT application," he said. Commending the introduction of

the Computer Based Testing (CBT) by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Ikazoboh said Dragnet had been advising the examining board to start e-testing since 2007. He said the success of the ongoing CBT option for the 2013 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) would enhance the successes and experiences of professionals in this line of business. He added that the advantages of the CBT make it expedient that Nigeria should adopt technology in deploying its exams. "It is important that the (UTME) CBT succeeds because if it does, it will be a plus for those who practice it. By now, this country should be adopting CBT in virtually all of our educational institutions especially the secondary and tertiary institutions. We simply can't go on with the Paper and Pencil Test (PPT) mode of assessment in this country. Imagine the cumbersome task the

teachers face especially when they have many students to attend to. With CBT, the results of tests are ready just as the candidate concludes the examination and there is no need to physically handle the scripts. That is why we applaud JAMB for taking the bold step by adopting CBT for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)," he said. In deploying technology in the administration of examinations, scholarships, recruitment purposes, and the like, Ikazoboh said over the years, Dragnet has been able to come up with applications that are foolproof, like its Face of Testing (FOT) software which he said is in demand even outside Nigeria. He said the FOT, which manages the examination process including question creation, candidate scheduling, examination writing, marking and report generation, has been improved over the years so that it works for a variety of testing purposes and is easy to use.

NOUN VC urges students to embrace distance learning

ICE-CHANCELLOR, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Vincent Ado Tenebe, has challenged Nigerians to embrace the Open Distance Learning (ODL) programme being offered by the university, describing it as the most convenient way of acquiring knowledge worldwide. Addressing fresh students at the ninth matriculation ceremony of the 2012/2013 session at the Nigerian Air Force Base's Special Study Centre in Kaduna, Tenebe said the government decided to invest huge sums of money on the institution to provide conducive learning atmosphere for the people. He said: "The fact that the concept of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is relatively new in Nigeria does not leave room for anyone to deceive or discourage you."

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

He added that courses offered by the institution have been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Tenebe also assured the students that NOUN has been mandated to provide functional, cost effective, flexible learning which add lifelong value to quality education for all who seek knowledge. He said: "The second convocation of the University that took place on January, 2018 is a testimony to the standard and quality of our programmes. You are therefore counted as special and very fortunate to be part of a university that is adjudged as one of the most internationally connected in Nigeria. "It is interesting to let you know that your admission into this university did not come by chance but

by merit. It is, therefore, very important that you utilise this great opportunity to actualise your dreams and your ambition to attain higher academic and professional qualifications. "Let me use this special occasion to reiterate that NOUN is a Federal university established by an Act of

the National Assembly (NOUN Act of 1983). The university is a legal entity in Nigeria operating programmes that are duly approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) which is the only recognised agency for the approval and accreditation of programmes.

THE Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Education, Hon Aminu Suleiman has praised the Management of the Federal University of Technology (FUTMINNA) for the effective utilisation of its resources and particularly singled out the quality of facilities at the School of Information and Communication Technology (SICT). "If what we see at SICT is anything to go by, then we are excited with you," Suleiman said when he led other members of the Committee to the institution recently. He said the visit was part of their oversight function to ensure that appropriations to institutions are judiciously used and projects executed. Earlier, while receiving the members of the committee at the Council Chamber, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof Abdullahi Bala, who represented the Vice-Chancellor thanked them for the visit and appealed for support to solve its water and inadequate accommodation problems to cater for over 16,000 students among others. The committee also visited some projects in the School of Environmental Technology.

Pact with U.S varsity FEDERAL University of Technology, Minna and Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States are to partner in the areas of undergraduate exchange programme, faculty training and research which would be beneficial to both institutions. This was made known recently when the DVC (Academics), Prof. Abdullahi Bala received the team at the Council Chamber, Main Campus, Gidan Kwano. In his remark, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Wayne State University, Prof. Farshed Fotouhi, thanked Management for the warm reception accorded them. Prof. Fotouhi praised FUT, Minna for the state-of-the-art facilities at the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology (SEET) and the quality of teaching staff.

Etisalat launches Telecoms Masters course in ABU

ELECOMMUNICATIONS company, Etisalat Nigeria, has launched a Masters programme in Telecommunications Engineering at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. The firm will also be sponsoring lecturers of the department of Computer and Electrical Engineering for their PhDs abroad to boost their skills and knowledge to deliver the Masters programme. The programme, known as the Etisalat Telecommunications Engineering Programme (ETEP), the first of its kind in West Africa, would be run in partnership with the ABU, Etisalat Academy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Plymouth University in the UK and Huawei. The programme is established at the Electrical and Computer Engi-

neering department of ABU, one of five approved universities in Nigeria accredited to offer telecommunications engineering, but previously only at undergraduate level, with input from the National Office for Technology Acquisition & Promotion (NOTAP) as part of its oversight functions. Speaking at the event, Chairman of Etisalat Nigeria, Mr Hakeem Belo-Osagie, said the MSc. course is aimed at contributing to local manpower with regards to telecommunications technology skills. "We are delighted to champion this first of its kind project in order to promote the telecommunications industry which has been dubbed as the backbone of the new economy and plays a central role in facilitating reliable and fast information

• Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha; Kaduna State Governor, Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero and Evans at the event.

exchange," he said. Chief Executive Officer of Etisalat Nigeria, Mr Steven Evans disclosed that the pool of telecoms technology experts from the ETEP will serve as possible manpower for Etisalat, Huawei and other such companies. "The goal of this project is to produce Nigerian graduate-specialists in telecommunications engineering. Every year, about 15 to 20 students would be trained. Qualified university graduates of Electrical

Electronics Engineering and related fields are eligible to apply. Etisalat will accept the enrolled students during their MSc. course for internships, to further broaden their practical understanding of telecommunications," he said. "Over the next five-years, Etisalat will sponsor ABU lecturers to study for a PhD in Telecommunications Engineering at the Plymouth University, UK so that local expertise can be developed for the long term sustainability of the MSc

programme. We want to ensure the smooth take-off of the programme. ABU and Plymouth University have agreed on the curriculum, with significant input from Etisalat Academy. Students, who are admitted for the MSc course, will enjoy the opportunity of learning from visiting lecturers that will include lecturers from Plymouth University and Etisalat Academy. We are set to make Nigerians technically equipped and proud," Evans concluded.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS

EKSU FILE

Group launches endowment fund By Sampson Unamka

HE Akwa Ibom State Community (AKISCOM), Lagos State chapter, has launched its education endowment fund. The group also inaugurated a Board of Trustees for the fund. President AKISCOM, Lagos, Prince Elijah Ifot, praised Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State for the growth of the state’s education sector and its qualitative and accessible education for all children and youth of Akwa Ibom. Prince Ifot also stated that the endowment is to complement government’s transformation agenda, required for capacity building of the youths in Lagos and its environs. He assured that the five-member BoT comprises reputable individuals who would uphold merit in the choice of the awardees. Said Ifot: “It is important to state that in selecting beneficiaries of the education endowment, AKISCOM will uphold merit, spread transparency and equal opportunity for all applicants to ensure only deserving, most especially those who are brilliant but lack the necessary financial support to pursue their dreams are selected.” The members are: Sir Emem Akpabio, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, Mr Sam Bassey, Mr Udeme Ufot and Prince Elijah Ifot. The state Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Effiong Abia, delivered a lecture entitled: Creating a first class state in a Third World country.

APPROACHING DEADLINES DAAD Masters Scholarships in Public Policy and Good Governance DAAD Masters Degree Deadline: 31 July 2013 Study in: Germany Next course starts 2014 Participating Programmes in Host Institutions: The following Master courses can be undertaken at selected German Universities as specified below: •Hertie School of Governance, Berlin: Master of Public Policy (MPP) •University of Duisburg-Essen: MA Development and Governance •Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt: Master of Public Policy (MPP) •Leuphana University of Lüneburg: Public Economics, Law and Politics (PELP) •Hochschule Osnabrück: Management in NonProfit Organisations •University of Osnabrück: Master Democratic Governance and Civil Society •University of Passau: Governance and Public Policy •University of Potsdam: Public Policy and Management (PPM) Number of Scholarships: About 8-10 scholarships are available for each Masters Course under the PPGG Programme. Target group: The scholarship scheme is open

to candidates from Africa, Latin America, South Asia, Southeast Asia as well as from countries in the Middle East. Scholarship value/inclusions: The scholarships are (generally) for two-year Master courses at a German institution of higher education. DAAD pays a monthly scholarship rate of currently 750 •. The scholarship also includes contributions to health insurance in Germany. In addition, DAAD grants an appropriate travel allowance as well as a study and research subsidy and in applicable cases rent subsidies and / or family allowances. Eligibility: The scholarship targets very well qualified graduates with a first university degree (Bachelor or equivalent) who in the future want to actively contribute to the social and economic development of their home countries. The scholarships are offered both for young graduates without professional experience and for mid-career professionals. In addition to the study results achieved so far, the main criterion for selection is a convincing description of the subject-related and personal motivation for the study project in Germany and the expected benefit after the return to the home country. For Master courses taught in German or in German and English, good knowledge of German (ideally at completed A 2 level at the time of application) is an advantage for being able to pass the German language test required for admission to the Master programme

at the end of the six-month preparatory German course. For courses taught in English, proof of good knowledge of English (generally a minimum of 550 TOEFL scores or equivalent) is required. The university degree should have been obtained during the six years before the application for the scholarship. Applicants cannot be considered if they have been in Germany for more than one year at the time of application. All Master courses have further additional requirements that must be fulfilled by the applicants at any case. Application instructions: Further information about the papers to be submitted is listed on the application form which can be obtained from the Internet, from the diplomatic and consular representations of the Federal Republic of Germany or from the local DAAD lecturers, Offices or Information Centres. You can find country-specific information here. The complete set of application requirements must be submitted by 31 July 2013 to the local DAAD or diplomatic representation in your home country. It is important to read the 2013 Announcement and visit the official website (found below) for detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship. Website: Source link: http:// www.scholars4dev.com/1010/daad-msscholarships-for-public-policy-and-goodgovernance-ppgg/#ixzz2TBa4Fl5g

Paul varsity beefs up security on campus

NGLICAN Bishop of Awka Diocese, Right Reverend Alexander Ibezim, has assured parents and guardians whose wards attend Paul University, Awka of adequate security. Speaking during the third session of ninth synod of the Awka Diocese at St Mary’s Church Ukpo, Ibezim said the suspects that waylaid abused two female students and robbed them as well as the dio-

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

cese of millions of naira have been arrested. It will be recalled about six gunmen invaded the university, abducting and raping two 100-Level female students at gun point. Following the atrocity, their colleagues staged a protest, shuting the three gates into the university for

hours so no one could either go out or come in. It was Ibezim who eventually pacified the protesters. Earlier, some armed robbers had broken into Ibezim’s office and made away with over N6 million without trace. Similarly last year, some robbers invaded the institution thrice, making away with valuables belonging to the students. Then, the stu-

•The Vice-Chancellor, Covenant University, Otta, Ogun State, Prof Charles Ayo (left), congratulating Prof Idowu Sobowale (right) after delivering the university’s 35th public lecture at the university last Friday

Lions Club donates computers

HE Lions Club of District 404B Nigeria has donated computers worth N450,000 to the library of Ifako Comprehensive High School, Ifako, Gbagada, Lagos, to boost e-learning. Its President, Wesley O. Kafidiya said the donation was in response to the request by the Principal, Mr Muslim Okunowo, during a visit by his team in November last year, to assist in redeveloping 'inadequate and non-functional toilet facilities and providing e-learning facilities'. Kafidiya said the club had started work on the former which cost experts put at N5 million, adding that members were delibrating on the funding. On the computers, Kafidiya said they learnt that Zinox Computers had donated some computers which could not be installed at the school, necessitating the club's provision of high capacity desktop computers with DVD-RW, LAN, PCI express wireless cards, 20 flat screen monitors, key boards and mouse. Earlier, he said the club sponsored

dents also protested, calling for change of management of the institution. Ibezim said the diocese has completely renovated nine primary schools within Awka Diocese with the assistance of Governor Peter Obi. He said a new 14-seater bus was acquired for the diocesan education board, while renovation is ongoing in five secondary schools.

By Joseph Eshanokpe

the reading programme of the school which featured about 20 participants. The initiative, Kafidiya stressed, was to underscore the importance and develop reading culture among pupils. He urged the pupils to make good use of and maintain the facilities. "Please maintain the equipment given to you so that more can come. Keep them very well. Don't abandon them," he adviced. The District 404 Governor, Stella Agbogun, said the club's theme for the year was: Reading Action Programme which according to her, aims at boosting reading among pupils. Lamenting that poor reading habit among pupils, she urged them pupils to inbibe the habit. The representative of the TutorGeneral/Permanent Secretary, District II, Ministry of Education, Lagos State, John Esevbode, said the government was happy that non-governmental organisations, groups and individuals were supporting education.

Global village cannot benefit Africa, says don

ORMER Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof Ayo Banjo, has said the much-talked about global village by the Western world was not designed to benefit Africa but to enrich the economy of the developed countries. He said the idea of a global village was developed in America and Europe, while Africa played no part in their design. Prof Banjo made the submission at an international conference organised by Babcock University School of Education and Humanities. It had as its theme: The Africa human condition in the contemporary world: An analysis of the state of the African in the period 19602010. Theories and analysis from interdisciplinary perspectives (Religious, historical philosophical and socio-political). Said Prof Banjo: "It has been argued

By Medinat Kanabe

that the global village idea has been promoted to aid the economic designs of the developed countries, while trying to co-opt Africa economics into those privileged economies." Speaking on the topic: “European Models and Africa Reality”, Prof Banjo, who was one of the keynote speakers, said African countries have uncritically embraced the idea, without a second thought that it may bode ill for the development that they desperately seek. Banjo spoke about the concept of an international community, saying the only organisation that readily comes to mind is the United Nations. He said in recent years, actions have been taken in the name of the international community to which the United Na-

tions was either not privy to or which it will oppose outright, resulting in the deaths of thousands of innocent men, women and children. Africa, Banjo stressed, appears to be little more than a passive observer, even in the face of talks about a global village or the invocation of an international community. He said the usual aids from the west to Africa which mostly comes in form of loans seems like a big financial break on the surface; but are all smokescreens apparently to keep the black continent in perpetual enslavement. “African countries are given access to loans which they are told will make them look more like the powerful nations so that the disparities become less obvious. But it is worth examin-

ing how efficacious the antidote has been," Banjo said. Banjo insisted that the global village will simply an remain illusion until those inhibiting the grossly disadvantaged villages try to bring them up first, to the level of more privileged village, and thereafter can negotiate the terms of an emerging global village. Others, who spoke at the event, were Prof Bola Akinterinwa, Director-General, Nigeria Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), who delivered on the topic: International people and the situation of African people: The challenges of globalisation. The Dean, School of Education and Humanities Babacock University Prof Frederick Akporobaro spoke on: Wole Soyinka and the African human condition:

•Prof Banjo

A study of Savagery and warfare in the season. Others include Prof Isaac Albert, Director, Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, and Prof Oyetunde Awoyele, President, Nigeria Association of Educationists.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION

School rewards brilliant pupils with ‘Blue Tie’

S a parent, how would you feel if your child dons a distinct uniform which simply distinguishes him as an intelligent chap among his peers? At Unique Heights School, Isheri Magodo,Lagos that is the tradition. For the exceptionally brilliant boys and girls in the school, their 'blue tie' is their trademark logo. Last Friday at the school premises, 32 new pupils were 'garlanded' with blue ties as a mark of honour. The initiative, which is the second edition, says the school proprietor/CEO Mrs Esther AyereAlatise, is to encourage brilliant performance among pupils. The event had in attendance parents, guardians, the parents teacher association of the school and other dignitaries that praised the awardees. Those that qualified for the award were pupils in the junior school who had scored 'As' in 10 of the subjects they studied including English and Mathematics; while in the senior secondary school they might have scored 'As' in seven subjects

By Adegunle Olugbamila

including English Language and Mathematics. Mrs Ayere-Alatise said the award will further spur the recipients to continue firing from all cylinders in their academic pursuits. She praised parents for cooperating with the management in this drive and other important facets. The principal, Mrs Olufunmilayo Olatunbode said the blue tie, which the awardees would henceforth wear, is a distinguishing emblem of their excellence among their peers. She stressed that the essence of the event is to motivate and sensitise the students to be the best and by so doing encourage them to set achievable goals that will make them stand out. "Today we celebrate our achievers who have zealously and diligently worked hard, studied smart to earn awards and bagged the "Blue Tie." She added that at Unique Heights, having the fear of God takes the

• Some of the recipients

front seat among the students. Other qualities she said are reverence to God; the wonders of knowledge; the power of wisdom; the edge of creativity; the art of interpersonal skills; the love for fellow human; the grace of humility and service; the wonder of truth; and diligence and laughter, among others. A cleric, Pastor John Afolabi told non blue tie pupils to always put

extra efforts to be part of those being honoured in subsequent editions. He admonished them to always put more effort in whatever they do. Afolabi said what differentiates the scholars from their colleagues is the extra efforts they put into their studies. He advised parents not to indulge their wards in frivolous

NGO donates books to primary schools

O instill a culture of reading in pupils, the Educational Standard Revival Initiative (EDUSTAR), a non-governmental organisation has presented 50, 000 text books to 100 primary schools in Cross River State. Speaking at the presentation in Calabar, EDUSTAR Executive Director of Prof Owan Enoh, said it is important to pay more attention to basic education because it forms the foundation of any development. Enoh lamented that many pupils at the tertiary level could neither

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

read nor write properly, a situation he attributed to poor education background. He said the 50, 000 copies of the text entitled: 'Reading Companion for Primary Schools', were distributed to the selected schools free, ditto for the 'Pupils Progress Monitoring' exercise books in the EDUSTAR Reading Intervention Programme. He said the programme involves raising the reading ability of pupils

through teacher retraining in reading and continuous monitoring of their teaching effectiveness, and through pupils' performance in class tests. Chairman of the organisation's Board of Trustees and a former ViceChancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof Kevin Etta, said EDUSTAR is poised to reverse the trend where many undergraduates have poor reading and writing skills, by ensuring standards are maintained in the school system. He said this is achievable through entrenchment of a cul-

ture of reading at a very early age. Commissioner for Education, Prof Offiong Offiong, said no matter the sophistication of technology, it can never supplant the essence of reading. He said no matter how much a child is exposed, the mind cannot be properly developed except through reading. Prof Offiong called on other wellmeaning individuals and organisations to also join hands in the provision of qualitative education for the children.

• Stephen, Amarachi and Miriam (middle) with dignitaries at the event

School checks Maths phobia with contest

HE Ambassadors School, Ota, Ogun State is hoping to reverse the phobia for mathematics through competition. Its proprietress, Mrs Victoria Olayemi Osewa said the contest, tagged: The Ultimate Mathematics Ambassador (TUMA) competition would soon spawn maths gurus who will no longer fear the allimportant subject. She said the competition was targeted at Primary Five and Six pupils to stimulate their interest in the subject very early. "We cannot over-emphasise the fact that Mathematics is a key subject in the study of science. We have found out that students have a phobia for

By Yemisi Awe

mathematics, thus leading to poor performances in science courses in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. "In order to provide a lasting solution to this education malaise among pupils, we have taken the initiative of solving the problem from the grassroots by organising the TUMA competition, which we believe, will encourage the pupils to have interest in the subject," she said. At the end of the competition which attracted over 120 entries from primary schools in Lagos and Ogun State, Stephen Aguwa, a Primary Five pupil of Life Crown

Private School, Abeokuta, Ogun State, lifted TUMA trophy. Imo Amarachi of St Bernadette School, Ipaja, Lagos and Duke Miriam of Future Kids Nursery/ Primary School, Ikeja, Lagos came second and third. Stephen, a nine-year-old, went home with N100, 000, and a plaque, while his Maths teacher received N30, 000, some Maths textbooks, plaque, laptop and a printer on behalf of the school. Amarachi got N75, 000; her Maths teacher, N20, 000, and a plaque. Their school was presented with some Maths textbooks, a laptop computer, a plaque and a printer. Miriam got N50, 000, and a plaque.

Her teacher went home with N5,000.00, a plaque, and Maths textbooks and printer for the school. Others winners between the fourth and 10th positions were presented with N10,000 each. Their teachers got half the amount in cash. All participants were given certificate of participation with consolations prizes,. Especially those who fell out of the first 10 winners. In her address, the guest speaker Mrs Ayotola Aremu from the Department of Mathematics Education, University of Ibadan advised the pupils to take Mathematics as a key subject because it links every other profession in life. "You can't do without it (Mathematics). It is everyday and everywhere. Check your precious knowledge and work on your weakness," she said.

activities, adding that all these have adverse effects on their academic performance in future. One of the recipients, Nkechi Anukwe, an SS 1 pupil expressed her happiness. She promised neither to disappoint the school nor her parents. The event also featured the inauguration of new prefects for the 2013/2014 academic year.

Pupils get success tips By Jane Chijioke

UPILS have been urged to set their goals early in life. The Director, Youth Rescue and Care Initiative (YORCI), Mrs Bisilola Asenuga, gave the advice at a seminar held at the Opebi Grammar School, Opebi, Lagos. Mrs Asenuga, who spoke on: New Term; Better me, raised the consciousness of the pupils towards accomplishing their goals. “Set goal according to your capabilities, it must be something you can measure, realistic, visible and time-based,” she said. She encouraged the pupils to be confident, determined, courageous and make plans for their life's destination. She urged them to have a 'guardian angel,’ who will help, guard and inspire them whenever their strength is waning. The YORCI director also implored them to learn to be honourable people even at their level. "Do not relent even in the face of difficulties. Even if you lose, it does not make you a failure; all you need is to rise up again. It is better to fail by honour than win by fraud," she added. Another resource person, Ebenezer Akinbolade, urged the pupils to have a specific goal, and hold on to it. Akinbolade also advised them to invest their skills and knowledge in their fatherland rather than yearning for greener pastures outside the country. Director, Attwool Schools, Mr Taiwo Adetunji, charged participants to consider every impossibility as a possibility. ''The goals you have set for yourself today are possible; you can achieve it if only you can imagine it and write it down,'' he said. A JSS 2 participant, Tunde Adeyemi, said he would begin acting on what he learnt from the seminar to be a better person. "I want to do better than last term, I am being motivated by this programme and I want it to continue in my school.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EDUCATION EDUTALK

with

An addendum

• Mrs Fashola (left), Mr Ashiwaju and Mrs Oladunjoye with the winners, Boadely, Abdulrahman and Bio

One Day Governor in for life-changing experience

OR spelling the word Thaumaturge correctly, Boadley Juwon Afolarin broke a tie and lifted the trophy for the 2013 Spelling Bee Competition organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Education last Wednesday. He was presented with a cheque of N250,000 and cartons of Indomie by Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, co-sponsors of the event at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, venue of the nerve-racking grand finale that involved 52 best spellers from public secondary schools across the six education districts of the state. The SS2 pupil of Omole Senior Grammar School, Omole, Ikeja will now join the Council of One Day Governors, made up of past winners of the competition, who got the privilege to sit on the most exalted seat of power in the state for one day. The significance of his win will not register to him until the benefits begins to unfold, says Lilian Ogbuefi, 2012 winner of the competition who was on hand to welcome Boadley, the latest winner, into the fold. The former pupil of Lagos State Senior Model College, Kankon, Badagry, told The Nation in an interview that the competition initiated by Senator Oluremi Tinubu through her New Era Foundation when her husband, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was in the saddle as governor of the state, changed her life. Lilian said: "The competition has transformed the lives of many public school pupils, including me. I was telling the New Era Director, Mr Osilaja that these people that won they don't know what has happened to them now. It is later they will start really experiencing it. You can just be called upon to come to a programme where there are all these big men and women and they will tell you to take the welcome speech. And when you get there you sit on the high table." Giving a hint into what Boadley will enjoy, Lilian said she got to visit three countries, Holland, Finland, Sweden, on an education exchange programme. She also said the One

•Lilian By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

Day Governor experience left her awestruck. "I can never forget the One Day Governor experience. It was wow," she said, laughing at the memory. "From the convoy, the glamour, the rest of the day. I spent the (previous) night in an expensive hotel. And then in the morning, the convoy just came to pick me. I was like wow. Then I had the opportunity to meet Obas, and talk to dignitaries in Lagos State. Then when I sat down on that hot seat, the governor's seat, It was just like I was the governor, and Governor (Fashola) just sat down beside me, that kind of thing. It was wonderful. And then the governor called me Her Excellency, I was like ahhh! It is worthwhile. It is a life-long journey. It doesn't end here because the New Era Foundation will follow you up." On a future date, 15-year old Boadley will act as the Governor of Lagos State for one day and be able to speak of his experience first hand. For now, Boadley is content with his achievements and full of gratitude to all those that supported him including his friends and English teacher Mr Olatilo. Boadley and the first runner up and

competition favourite, Abolaji Abdulrahman wowed the audience at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, with their ability to spell uncommon words of Greek, Latin and Spanish origins. They spelt words like xenophobia, Mycorrhiza, platyrrhine, cornucopia, and boondaggle before 12-year old Abolaji was floored by thaumaturge which won Boadely the trophy. Mrs Abimbola Fashola, wife of Governor Raji Fashola of Lagos State, praised the pupils for their excellent performance, saying they successfully spelt words even adults could not manage. She thanked Senator Oluremi Tinubu for introducing the competition in 2001. "I join in saying thank you to our mother, Mrs Tinubu for this competition. These children really tried because there are some wordss that do not correspond with their pronunciation. It is a thing of joy that our children are improving," she said. Speaking in the same vein, former Deputy Governor, Mrs Sarah Sosan, also praised Mrs Tinubu for introducing the competition, and the education ministry for improving on it. The winners were presented with trophies, cheques as well as Indomie by Dufil Prima Foods, which co-sponsored the event. Boadley, who will act as the governor of Lagos State for one day on a future date, was presented with N250,000 as star prize. Abdulrahman, a JSS3 pupil of Community Junior Secondary School, Ipaja, won N150,000; while Bio Marvelous of Victoria Island Senior Secondary School, Iru, got N100,000. In addition to these, Education Commissioner, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye said the overall winner will embark on an educational exchange programme abroad, while Mr Tope Ashiwaju, PR Manager, Dufil Prima Foods, said the organisation will sponsor him to national and international spelling bee competitions.

FRCN honours provost, others

HE Acting Provost of the Oyo State College of Agriculture, Igboora, Prof Jacob Gbemiga Adewale, has been given a media friendly award by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ibadan National Station, Chapel. The honour is in recognition of his contributions toward the growth and development of the media profession, specifically for contributing to an informed and a just society.

The award was part of week long activities marking the 35th anniversary of the NUJ chapel. Receiving the award, Prof Adewale dedicated it to Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State for giving him the privilege to serve at the college. Adewale also said the media is pivotal to national development, be it in the agricultural, educational and other sectors of the economy while he equally praised the (NUJ) for the good work they are doing to ensure that the society is better

informed. Adewale was honoured alongside four other notable Nigerians namely the Chief Justice of Oyo State, Honourable Justice Badejoko Adeniji Prof Sabith Ariyo Olagoke, the founder Safaudeen in Islam and Mr Lanre Afolabi, the pioneer chairman of the Ibadan Chapel. Congratulating the recipients, the Chairman of the NUJ, Radio Nigeria Ibadan chapel, said they were carefully selected for their genuine love and contributions towards the pen profession.

ORE than ever before, Mrs Oby Ezekwesili's keynote address at the Third Lagos State Education Summit on Tuesday made me see reasons why no government must play politics with education. Any government claiming to provide free education must not Kofoworola do it to score popularity points with his people. Free education Belo-Osagie goes beyond providing classKofosagie@yahoo.com rooms, asking pupils not to pay 08054503077 (SMS only) fees and paying salaries of teachers. If that is all free education is about, then no government should dabble into it. The well being of our public education system is crucial to our national development because it is in the public schools that the majority of our future leaders are trained. In her address at the summit, Mrs Ezekwesili noted that 65 per cent of Nigeria's school-aged children depend on publicly funded secondary schools; 75 per cent depend on public primary schools. With the larger share of our young population depending on public education, then what happens in those schools should concern everybody. Right now, majority of our public schools are producing children who are inferior in quality to their peers in other parts of the world. They simply cannot compete. They actually complete six years of primary education with being sufficiently able to read and write, tackle appropriate numeracy tasks for their levels, or acquire necessary life skills. These statistics are not hidden yet we are doing nothing about them. I was at a school in Ogun State penultimate week where a corporate organisation inaugurated a block of classrooms and offices it renovated. I tried interviewing some of the pupils after the event to get their reactions to the gesture. Sadly, I could not interact with the pupils. None, save a boy specially produced by one of the teachers could speak a sentence of intelligible English. That is not the only school where I have had such experience. There are so many pupils in public schools in various states like that. What then are they learning in school? Are they not wasting time going to school? For so many years people have passed through our public primary schools like that. They completed their primary education without being able to write their names because of the mass promotion policy. Where there was no mass promotion, they were allowed to pass with mediocre scores. They went through secondary school the same way. Then when they are unable to pass the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) conducted by the West African Examinations Council and the National Examinations Council (NECO), we start shouting that things are so bad. Yet, as Governor Babatunde Fashola noted at the summit, the failure had already been determined from primary school, when they did not know anything but were allowed to progress from class to class without making progress. After their secondary education, which they complete without gaining the requisite qualifications to progress further, where do we expect them to function? Those of them that are not gifted with the entrepreneurial bug are forced to settle for low-income jobs. They become bus conductors, miscreants, market women, and political thugs. They cannot attract decent wages because they lack qualifications and skills. When they are unable to secure jobs, they constitute a nuisance in the society. For more than a decade I lived in an exclusive area that made me unaware of the huge army of poorly educated unemployed youths. Now, I have relocated to an area where I come across many of them daily; and I am worried. If they are the ones we depend to run our societies tomorrow, then we are in for big trouble. They will not allow the privately-educated children of the elite members of the society to enjoy their lives in peace. And if tomorrow they hold political offices, we can be rest assured that we will have a lot to complain about. More than ever before, we need to ensure that children are learning when they attend our public schools everyday. We have laid too much emphasis on provision of infrastructure. While a conducive environment is important, it is not enough to deliver quality education. Teachers are the ones who must play this all-important role. We must attract the best of them and equip them to groom our public school children. We cannot boast of achieving Vision 2020 or any other goal without repositioning our public education system.

‘After their secondary education, which they complete without gaining the requisite qualifications to progress further, where do we expect them to function? Those of them that are not gifted with the entrepreneurial bug are forced to settle for low-income jobs. They become bus conductors, miscreants, market women, and political thugs. They cannot attract decent wages because they lack qualifications and skills. When they are unable to secure jobs, they constitute a nuisance in the society’

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The governorship aspirants in Anambra State are warming up for the epic battle. Will Governor Peter Obi hand over to a successor from the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)? Will the opposition carry the day? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the chances of the parties and aspirants as the contest draws near.

Anambra 2014: APGA, PDP, APC set for battle E

YES are on Anambra State this year. Since the tenure of Governor Peter Obi will expire in March, next year, the next governorship election may take place in December. Ahead of the poll, the face of politics in the state is changing. The ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)is becoming fragile, owing to the crisis that has polarised the party. But the opposition platforms, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are waxing stronger. Analysts predict that the contest may be between the PDP and the APC, if the APGA refuses to put its house in order. There is the possibility that the ruling party may be totally weakened, not only because of its protracted leadership crises, but also because of the perception that Obi is becoming too intimate with President Goodluck Jonathan, and ultimately, the PDP. The politicians nursing the governorship ambitions are coming out boldly. Their camps and structures are being fortified in anticipation of the epic battle. The governorship aspirants have started positioning themselves. Party activities have been revived because they are on the prowl. Three parties are in contention. These are the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), which is fusing into the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Others, including the Labour Party (LP),the African Democratic Party (ADC) and the United Peoples Party (UPP)may become spectators on the poll day. The PDP, which is the self-styled largest party in Africa, is plotting to return to power. The ruling party, APGA, is also having problems. Although its lone governor, Obi, has performed well, his romance with the PDP leaders has become an issue. When the Alliance for Democracy (AD) leaders started fraternised with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, they lost their territories. APGA is basking in the euphoria of the power of incumbency. But ACN has said that this will collapse on poll day. Sources close to the PDP disclosed that its leaders do not perceive the APGA as a threat again, since its leader, Obi, is at home with the President and other PDP leaders. Three zones are competing for the slot in the state. Obi is pushing for power shift to Anambra North Senatorial Zone. He hinged his position on the real or imagined rotational principle. In his view, the district has not produced the governor, since a state was created out of it and Awka became its capital. The Central Senatorial Zone produced Obi (2006 till date), Dr. Chris Ngige (2003-2006), Dame Etiaba (November 2006-February 2007).The South produced Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju (1999-2003), Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife (January 1992November 1993) and Dr. Andy Uba, who was deposed by the court. Thus, in the last 22 years, the South has produced three governors and the Central has also had a stint. Anambra North has only been playing the second fiddle. The former deputy governor, Dr. Chidi Nwike, who was recently murdered in Asaba, Delta State capital, hailed from the zone. He was until his demise the National Vice Chairman of the ACN in the Southeast. Chief Chinedu Emeka, who was

deputy to Mbadinuju, is also from the zone. The various groups and associations calling for power shift to the North have been strengthened by the governor’s position. However, the aspirants from other zones are not deterred by this clamour. Notable APGA chieftains have even disagreed with Obi on the issue and vowed to resist his attempt to impose a candidate of his choice. Obi’s position on power shift appears very weak because the aspirants from the other zones seem to be stronger than those from the North. Therefore, observers contend that the North may end up producing another deputy governor. The aspirants itching to succeed Obi include the ACN strongman, Senator Ngige, who represents Anambra Central, the federal legislator from Anaocha/Njikoka Dunukofia Constituency, Hon. Uche Ekwunife, Senator Andy Uba, Nze Akachukwu Nwankpo, and Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu. Others are Chief Olisa Metuh, Dr. Chike Obidigbo, Dr. Ifeanyi Uba, Prof. Charles Soludo, Mr. John Nwosu, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, Oseloka Obaze, Senator Emma Anosike, and Sir Godwin Ezemo.PDP has more aspirants than other parties. Among them, Uba is the strongest. Party leaders have described him as a brand. He has a strong financial base and solid structure. There are many people in the PDP who feel that Uba should be fielded as the consensus candidate, having won the governorship poll before, although the court nullified the election, based on the tenure controversy. APGA has a sizeable number of aspirants. But party sources said that other ACN aspirants would step down for Ngige.

• Uba

• Ngige

THE ASPIRANTS Ngige (ACN) Ngige is a household name in the state. He is very popular. Many admire him for his courage and strong will. He is vocal on the podium and he has mobilisation skill. Ngige is running for the third time. He ruled the state between 2003 and 2006, before he was removed by the Appeal Court in Enugu, which ruled that Obi won the 2003 poll. The ACN chieftain has a good leadership style. As the governor, Ngige constructed many roads that have continued to remind the people that he cared for them. The roads opened up many communities.He has told reporters that he is coming back to continue the good work. He explained that his motto now is: “Operation totality for restoration of the abused system.” Ngige’s popularity has reflected in the outcome of past polls in Anambra State. His party won six House of Assembly seats, one House of Representatives seat and a senatorial seat. During the senatorial election, he defeated the former Minister of Information and Communications, Prof Dora Akunyili of the APGA.

Ekwunife (APGA) Uche Ekwunife is a colourful politician. She is also a veteran governorship aspirant. The odds are certainly against him. Some felt that it would be easier for her to emerge as the deputy governor. But she debunked the rumour that she wanted to play the second fiddle. “If anybody is thinking of such a thing, it means the person does not understand what politics

tician in the conservative camp. Uba took off as a presidential aide to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. In Aso Rock, he wielded much influence. Party leaders perceive him as a loyal party man who has worked for the fold with all his heart. Life is full of ups and downs. Thus, Uba’s political career has not been rosy. The senator tasted the carrot in 2007 when he was declared the winner of the governorship poll in 2007.He was in the saddle for barely 17 days before the court ruled that the election that catapulted him to power was held in error. Following the interpretation of the tenure by the Supreme Court, Obi returned to power. In 2010, PDP denied Uba the ticket and handed it over to the former Central Bank Governor, Prof Soludo. Uba moved to the Labour Party, but he failed to make an impact. After the election, Uba returned to the PDP, where he has been consulting with stakeholders on his ambition to return to power. As a senator, he has embraced his legislative duties with a consuming passion. Uba is not a bench warmer in the Senate. He has also avoided controversies. Sources said that his consultation with the various stakeholders in the state over the 2014 project is yielding dividends. Although he has not formally launched his ambition, many chieftains are urging him to declare his interest so that mobilisation can begin across the local governments. Analysts believe that Uba will definitely make an impact during the election, if he gets the ticket of his party. However, others are equally going for the same ticket. The gulf between him and his brothers has collapsed as both of them are now backing his ambition. This is an added advantage to him. The Presidency is also said to be showing keen interest in Uba’s ambition. That may also be the reason many PDP leaders are enthusiastic about his entry into the race.

Nwankpo (PDP) He is the Secretary of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), which has been enmeshed in controversy. The Okija politician has been acquiring chieftaincy titles since 2012. During the flood disaster, he was at home to comfort the victims. However, some people feel that he is not a heavy weight politician.

Ukachukwu (PDP)

• Ekwunife

is all about. I was there in 2010 and I want to state it here again that I, Uche Ekwunife, will be running for the governorship of this state. Why should I vie for deputy? I am not joking about it.”, she said. Ekwunife is contesting on the platform of APGA. She is from Central Senatorial Zone and the only woman running for the position at present. Currently, the federal legislator is the House Committee Chairman on Environment.Already, the aspirant has visited the 21 local government areas for the inauguration of her campaign committees.

Uba (PDP) Andy Uba, who represents Anambra South Senatorial Zone in the Senate, is the candidate to beat at the PDP primaries. The senator is a serious contender. He is a tested and trusted poli-

In 2010, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu contested the governorship on the platform of Hope Democratic Party (HDP), but he failed at the poll. Now, he is in the PDP. Today, he is back to the PDP. Already, he has taken a full duplex in Awka for his campaign, with his photograph boldly displayed in front of the building along Onitsha-Enugu Express Way.

Obaze (APGA) A career diplomat from Ogbaru Council, Obaze returned to the state on Obi’s request to become the Secretary to the Government.Described as a gentleman and a hard worker by his admirers, Obaze replaced his younger brother in Obi’s executive council, Dubem, who was referred to as the de-facto governor of the state during his time as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters. Party sources said that Obi is promoting his interest in the ruling party because he is humble, intelligent, focused and hardworking. On this account how-

ever, some party chieftains are already having grudges against the governor. They have been warning that the party may be embarking on a suicide mission, if eventually he picks the ticket because he is a political neophyte.

Ezeemo (ACN) Sir Godwin Ezeemo is preparing to rub shoulders with Nigige, His gestures to churches, markets, artisans, corporate organisations and has really brought him closer to the masses. This is ironic, because he stood behind the former governor in the period of trouble.

Ubah (APGA) Ifeanyi Ubah is the Chief Executive of Capital Oil and Gas. He hails from Nnewi. Many people have attributed his recent travails to his political ambition. Apart from Ngige, Uba and Ekwunife, who are the front runners, Ubah is the next person in line that has appealed to the people. In 2012, he distributed kerosene to many homes at the peak of scarcity, which hit the country. He ordered that a litre should be sold at N50 when it was being sold at N150 per litre elsewhere. Before now, he has supported the National Chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, who is battling other party leaders for the soul of the party. His endorsement earlier by Umeh was what triggered off the sour relationship between Obi and his chairman.

Anosike (PDP) Senator Emmanuel Anosike, who represented Anambra North, was replaced by Senator Joy Emodi, following the Court of Appeal verdict. He has been holding meetings in his country home, Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, ahead of his declaration for the governorship. He was a member of the House of Representatives between 1991 and 1993. Apart from these gladiators, there are other aspirants in other smaller parties. They include Dr. Chike Obidigbo, who hails from Umunya in Oyi Local Government Area. He is the Southeast Chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). He is also an advocate of power shift to the North District. Others are Dr. Alex Obigbolu from Onitsha, who was the chairman of the Anambra State Local Government Civil Service Commission. He contested the governorship in 2010 on the platform of African Political System (APS). Later, he defected to the PDP. He sees himself as the most qualified among the candidates. Though his backers are not known, but from all indications, he has a large following at the grassroots. The only thing that can hinder his chance is the lack of strong financial base. The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, is also interested in succeeding Obi. He however, is studying the crisis in the party, which has failed to abate. Other aspirants are John Nwosu and Patrick Obianwu. The list may swell as time goes on. Obi’s deputy, Emeka Sibedu, may throw his hat into the ring, a source said, adding that the pendulum may swing to his direction, despite the clamour for a candidate from the North. The people are full of eagerness. The aspirants are on the track. The whistle will soon be blown by the electoral commission. Who succeeds Obi next year? The people will decide at the poll.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

POLITICS Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole was a guest of Gbenga Aruleba on the Africa Independent Television (AIT) last week. He spoke on the activities of his administration and other partisan issues.

Why my govt is popular, by Oshiomhole

HAT is your reaction to the condemnation of the recent local government elections by the PDP? If the election was popular with the opposition, it means it conformed with the standard of the opposition. And who is the opposition in this case, it is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Their record concerning the conduct of election is an open secret. They do not believe in one-man, one-vote. They believe in thuggery, they believe in falsification of results, they believe in declaring winners and losers. It is the culture they have entrenched since 1999. So, if the oppositions were to celebrate what we have done, then something must be wrong. I think what matters are the views of the independent observers on ground because election is not a mystery that people cannot see through. But to start from the point you made, I assumed office on November 12, 2008. As of that time, all the local governments were under the control of the PDP. On December 16, 2007, everybody in Edo State including distant and close observers will confirm this, there was no election whatsoever that year. As they say, two wrongs don’t make a right. It is precisely because of this culture of rigging, this culture of imposition that formed the basis of my campaign for one-man, one-vote, and my campaign against rigging, against imposition. Given our track record, we have always won election since I assumed office. In the National Assembly elections, we won; in the House of Assembly election, we won and in the Governorship election, we won. So, for the PDP, it is clear that they are out of this state. So I believe that everything considered, an observer will tell you that this is the best election ever conducted in any local government anywhere in Nigeria and I am proud of that. How do we strengthen local governments to make them deliver on their mandate? When I won in 2007, it was under the PDP government and I worked with them for about two years before the end of their tenure. So, it is about conviction. We need to entrench power in the hands of the people, because the problem we are having today, when people say that this democracy is not delivering, look at where it is not delivering, you will find out that it is mostly in those states where elections are massively rigged. In Edo State, people agree that

we are delivering, but it is also not a coincidence because we don’t have godfathers, if we don’t work we can’t get the people’s votes. We derive our popularity and strenght from the people. What will be the mandate of the local government now that they are in place? The challenges in local government are not the same. In Oredo local government for instance, the Chairman said he discovered that cemetery is completely over grown with weeds and people have problem using public cemetery and this is something he is going to pay attention to, and I think it makes a lot of sense. There are also issues of environmental sanitation. There are certain things, under the constitution that are within the purview of the local government, for example, markets. It is for local governments to build markets, clean up the market and make sure that they function. They have basic responsibility in the area of sanitation. They have basic challenges in terms of managing the parks. There are specific responsibilities that local governments are supposed to perform, but as a party, this was clear in my address. I said to them, our own secret of survival is simple: work for the people. Now, the needs of our people are still at the basic level. They want to have their children in schools. Schools that are beautiful, teachers that are qualified, motivated and ready to teach. They want to have clean water to drink. They want to switch on power in their houses, they need electricity; they want to be able to sleep with that sense of security. These are just basic needs which other people call Millennium Development Goals. As a Governor, we still have a role to play in that. Local governments also have their roles to play and we need to complement each other. There are some rural roads that you need to grade, communities that are completely inaccessible, I believe it is the birth-right of every Nigerian to be able to travel in some comfort to his location and travel from his location to the city, and if we are going to deal with rural poverty, and eliminate it, then the starting point is infrastructure. We must build more rural roads, so that our farmers who work so hard, and have good harvest, they should not watch their farm produce rot away because they can’t take them to the market. So, all these are the issues. Of

• Gov. Oshiomhole course, we have to take over substantially because a lot of local governments don’t have enough resources to deal with these challenges. What is your take on the agitation for full autonomy for local governments? Well, it is about definition. In Edo State, we do not control the local governments and, but I agree from the records that under PDP, the local governments were being controlled to some extent in the sense that there is evidence of state government procuring vehicles, procuring tractors for local governments on behalf of local governments at a price that is arguably not competitive. I think a local government should have the right to make a decision whether to procure tractor and whether to get it at a price that is competitive. I don’t think I should be a procurement officer on behalf of local governments. But the evidence exist. However, there is an area in which I believe we are all interfering which is the issues of payment of teachers’ salaries. In Edo State, we insist that the first charge on the allocation to local government should be in favour of the payment of teachers’ salaries. And the reason is that over the years, we have had situation in which sometimes teachers were not paid for months and once the teachers are not paid for a month or two, they will stop teaching and so you find a situation in which only children of the rich who are in private schools are in schools. Those of the poor who are in government schools are at home, because teachers are not paid, therefore, they are on strike. In order to stop this, I think it is a national, more or less a national policy, that when the allocation comes from Abuja, the local governments are compelled to pay their teachers first before any other thing. But when

people talk about joint account, I really don’t know what they mean. In Edo State, we don’t have joint account with local governments; what accrues to Edo State government is defined directly by Abuja and is paid directly to State Government Account; that of the local governments is entirely separated. Local government money comes separately, that of the State Government is separated all the way from Abuja. What accrues to each of the local government is also analyzed all the way from Abuja. It is not Edo State that distributes it. We don’t have a different formula. For example, Oredo local government knows from the Federation Account what money is accruing to it. It is clearly stated at the Federation Account. It is not something Edo State Government has discretion over. However, when the Federation Account has allocated what accrues to each of the local governments we now decide to deduct in favour of the Primary School Education Board that sum that is required for the payment of teachers salary. Now, in a truly autonomous local government situation, the Governor has no right to direct the local governments on whether to pay salaries or not. What efforts is Edo State making to ensure that Edo citizens are not at the receiving end of the ravaging flood? This is one area one can’t be too sure what will happen but I think we know what we are doing and the outcome we expect as a result of what we are doing. In Benin City, even in normal times, it is a city that has been proned to flooding. I remember in 2007, some families lost their babies to flood, right from their bedroom. In parts of Benin City, because the drainages were either blocked or they did not exist at all. At Five Junction, if it rains for five minutes, you can’t pass there. A security man told me how he was almost drowned at Tomline area, after few minutes of rainfall. My current Commissioner for Information, he will share his experience with you, when he was coming from Lagos passing through Ugbowo, on approaching Tomline, it was raining and before he knew it water had entered his car and he could not locate the lever of his gear box; so things were that bad, but we dealt with the issue of flooding in Benin, rather decisively. We carried out what we call Benin City Water Storm master plan under which we are able to identify precisely where we have flooding problem, how to solve it, where to channel the flood water to; and right now, we are prosecuting a N30 billion comprehensive Benin City storm water project. Under this scheme, we are dredging almost fourteen kilometers of a canal, I mean part of it is almost seven meters high by about eight meters wide just enough to convey all the flood water to the river and we have done about fifty percent of that. That has been very helpful, so even last year when the rest of some places experienced flooding that did not occur in Benin because of the impact of the storm water and also the impact of the dredging we have done in the moat clean up to allow the water to flow.

House of Representatives member from Ekiti State, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, spoke with EMMANUEL OLADESU on sundry national issues.

‘Amnesty can’t solve Boko Haram crisis’

• Daramola

HAT is your reaction to the proposed amnesty for the Boko Haram sect? To the best of my knowledge, the President has set up a committee on amnesty. I think what the President was trying to say is that he is inclined to listening to anybody who has any grievance and wish to come to the round table with him. He metaphorically said he could not dialogue with the ‘ghosts’, which simply means that anybody who has an issue or any link with them should come out and say Mr. XYZ or group XYZ are responsible for it. Look at the way they are killing people who are our brothers in the North. When I say our brothers, I mean they are our brothers, no matter what they do but I think it is not done, no matter what their griev-

ances or what their agitation against the government might be. I believe that some of the goals they are pursuing may never be met by the government because I don’t know how the President can accept any agitation on the bases of what they described as western education as bad. In a nut shell, I think what the President is trying to say is that he will be willing to talk to anybody from any part of the country who is incline to tell him the agitation of the sect. From what we have seen, amnesty wont be able to address the Boko Haram problem. Suddenly, the Niger Delta militants are back on the street. What does that portend? These issues of sects are topical in my mind. That is why it was the first motion I moved in the House of Representatives when I got there. The intention of the late President Umaru Yar ‘Adua on the issue of amnesty was noble. I think recent events have shown that amnesty has not really done what we expected. What they claimed that is the problem must be systematically addressed. And I want to tell you that you cannot have a superficial solution to a systemic problem. For instance; it is not appropriate for one

to buy Vaseline and be applying it on somebody who has boil on his body. So, I don’t think that the amnesty capsule, as a drug, has addressed the systemic health problems that is facing Niger Delta. What the figurative amnesty capsule has done so far now was to reduce the immediate pain of the Niger Delta problem but not to savage the region from where the problem is coming from. People have talked about the injustice of their resource control and I agree that it is one of the fundamental issues in the region. And I keep wondering, if they have drop all the weapon in their possession, what do they used to kill those 12 police men? In the days of the late Isaac Boro and the late Ken Sarowiwa, the duo did not have the coloration of personal benefit. They could have done a deal with Shell under the Late General Sani Abacha but they didn’t do that because they were concerned with the environment and their people. All of a sudden, the tenor changed. People who did not understand what the struggle was, ceased the opportunity to enrich themselves. How would you rate the Jonathan Administration? If I want to be fair with Mr. Presi-

dent, I’ll say he has not performed to the expectation because the bulk ends on his table. Nobody is going to blame any minister for the failure of the administration of President Jonathan. How many ministers in the regime of former President Obasanjo do we remember today? How many Director General and the ministers of the Late Umaru Yar ‘Adua do we remember today? The bulk ends on the table of the President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, so he must take the responsibility and he must take charge. Now there are primary focus areas in which people can judge the performance of any administration. Jonathan should ask himself whether he has improved on power supply? I saw one minister on television who was saying we are to celebrate our power supply because we hit 4,000 mega watts in the nation of 160 million people. South Africa in four five years ago, with 40million people was having 40,000 mega watts of power and the minister knows that. How can we prevent budget failure? The legislators should rise up to the challenge. That is the only arm of government that is constitutionally empowered to ensure that ap-

propriation is blend with the reality on ground. It is possible for the ministers and other executive to carry out their duties because 46 ministers will sit in their EXCO every Wednesday and what they will tell us after their sitting is that the Federal Government has awarded this project. Is it possible for 46 people to know Nigeria more than 360 legislators? It is reverse logic to think that the executive who are not up to 50 know Nigeria more than people who are elected from their various constituencies. Can anybody know Ikole Ekiti more than me? Every budget is a financial law and the constitution says if you break the law, it is impeachable offence and it is only the parliament that is capable of impeaching the President. So, Mr. President cannot be bigger than 160 million Nigerians. In your view, can the All Progressives Congress (APC) dislodge PDP in 2015? I am always modest with my evaluation. I know too well that with the kind of commitment of our leaders; like Asuwaju Bola Hamed Tinubu, General Muhamad Buhari (rtd) of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and other people in APGA and ANPP, the party is going places.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

THE NATION

NATURAL HEALTH E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

‘Hypertension can be prevented’ W

HEN our forefathers ate roasted corn with its husk; drank pap with its chaff or cooked plantain with its skin, they knew what they were doing. It was not because they were crude. They were actually preventing hypertension. They were actually eating more of potassium than sodium (salt). According to the Health Coach/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Seaduck Nigeria Limited, Sam Ayeni, hypertension is rare in populations with low sodium intake, but sodium alone is not the problem, it is the combination of much sodium and too little potassium. “When potassium is depleted, the body’s cells look for sodium to make up for the loss. We should be eating about five times more potassium than sodium (5:1). To prevent and treat hypertension, the Institute of Medical recommends a daily intake of 50 to 50 mmol of sodium, and a minimum of 120 mmol of potassium rich foods including potatoes with skin, banana, milk, orange, milk, orange juice, tomato juice, cooked spinach, avocados, raisins and red beans.” Ayeni said: “Magnesium works with potassium to activate the sodium/potassium pump, which pumps potassium into, and sodium out of the cells. Magnesium also widens the blood vessels and high intakes lower blood pressure readings from research. Magnesium rich foods include seafood, legumes, kelp, wheat bran, wheat germ, almonds, cashew, and peanuts. Fruits and fruit juice, leafy green vegetables and sunflower seeds are also good dietary sources of magnesium. “Researchers have observed that cal-

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

cium supplementation appears to reverse the blood pressure raising impact of salt, especially in salt sensitive individuals. Blood pressure is the force of the bloodstream against the walls of the arteries as they send blood from the heart to the rest of the body.” Explaining how hypertension is developed, Ayeni said: “At the end of each artery, tiny blood vessels called arterioles deliver blood to all the tissues. When the wall of the arterioles tighten, blood pressure goes up. When those walls relax, blood pressure goes down. And the higher number refers to systolic blood pressure, which refers to the pressure exerted when the heart contracts. The lower number, the diastolic pressure, measures the rests between heartbeats. “Gestational hypertension” may occur during pregnancy, and is implicated in low birth weight and early delivery. “People with a lot of calcium in their coronary arteries are more likely to have heart attacks and strokes and these outcomes might be avoidable by keeping blood pressure low when one is young. We can not do anything about our age, race or gender. But we can control many of the other risk factors for hypertension, such as obesity, poor diet and lifestyle choices and lack of proper medical care. Being overweight can cause or worsen kidney disease and the kidneys help regulate blood pressure. “High blood pressure can damage the kidneys. Kidney damage further raises the blood pressure, and the vicious cycle continues. Our fat tissue and kidneys gener-

Alternative ways to treat arthritis

LL hope is not lost for those suffering from waist pain and arthritis who have tried orthodox medicine without getting relief. Their pains can be reduced through Complementary Alternative Medicine Practice (CAMP) by receiving osteopathic treatment. Osteopathy is a form of treatment which emphasises manipulation. "It is a drug free treatment and manual therapy that focuses on treating and strengthening the muscles and the joints, an Osteopath, Olufemi Bankole, said at an Acupuncture seminar with the Chinese at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR). ''This, however, is not to say that osteopaths do not believe in drugs because there is no discipline that is self-sufficient. All disciplines are interrelated. We believe in osteopathy, manipulation and drugs.'' He described arthritis as a form of joint disorder that involves inflammation of one or more joints. "The most common cause of arthritis is infection of the joint, accident involving the joint or aging process," he said. According to him, the major

By Olatunde Odebiyi

complaints by individuals who have arthritis are joint pain. "The pain is often constant and may be localised in the joint involved. The pain from arthritis is due to inflammation that occurs around the joint, damage to the joint from diseases, muscle strains caused by forceful movements against stiff painful joints and fatigue," he added. He said pains from arthritis could be leg pain, neck pain, shoulder pain or any other joint in the body. Bankole advised people to seek a qualified osteopath on arthritis. He said they should also avoid strenuous movements. "You can move your whole body instead of straining just one part of the body to make a move. Exercises help to improve easy movement of the joints," he added. To prevent arthritis, Bankole said people should watch what they eat, stressing that they should not over-eat to avoid being obese. "Burn calories in your body and let your cholesterol level be kept low. Ensure adequate movement every day, exercise regularly as it helps in blood circulation

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ate a complicated system of hormones. These hormones determine the width of the arteries and, therefore, the pressure of the blood in the arteries, in addition, abdominal fat leads to a heightened production of the hormone insulin. If salt must be taken, it is advisable to go for unrefined salt, sea salt in its naturalness is the best.”

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What you should know about hypertension • Have your blood pressure checked and monitored regularly. • Maintain a healthy body weight. Carrying too much weight increases your chances of developing high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. • Exercise regularly. Aim for two hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every week. Lack of physical activity can contribute to high blood pressure. • Eat more fruits and vegetables. Include potassium and whole grains and less saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. Read nutrition labels. Reduce sodium intake — most of the sodium we eat comes from processed and restaurant foods. • Don’t smoke. According to the American Heart Association, smoking temporarily raises blood pressure and increases risk of damaged arteries. • Watch how much alcohol you consume. Alcohol contributes to high blood pressure. Generally, men should keep it down to less than two drinks a day, and women should have no more than one drink per day. • If you have high blood pressure, take your medication as directed. Tell your doctor if you are experiencing side effects. •Source: www.care2.com

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•Bankole

•Ezengige

•Adewale

and joints movement," he said. A naturopath, Gilbert Ezengige, who spoke on nutritional medicine stressed that every health practitioner must be sound in nutritional medicine. He described food as health and health as food. “We must eat food that are highly nutritious because they improve the stability of the heart and purifies the red blood cells among others,". He urged on daily intake of fruits and vegetables, saying that they boosts the immune system. Healthy and balanced nutrition is also good for the body,

he added. Ezengige noted that people should avoid taking more than one fruit at a time. This, he said would help the body to derive maximum benefits from each of them. "Avocado pear, cashew nut, carrot, tomatoes, cabbage, fresh salad, orange, lime, soya beans, letups, lemon and garlic are some of the fruits people should eat daily," he said. An acupuncturist, Bade Adewale, who spoke on acupuncture, said it involves sticking some fine needles into some selected parts in the body to treat ailment that cannot be easily managed by some western

forms of medications. He said the practice can help treat different ailments like arthritis. The Chief Consultant to Tianshi Group, Mark Igbani, who spoke on: “The need for detoxification, said it helps to remove substances that are capable of causing harm to the body. He said toxins are harmful to the body, adding that they come from tobacco smoke, generator smoke and diet or environmental exposure, among others. Igbani said it is crucial to remove toxins from the body because it can damage the liver and kidneys, among others.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NATURAL HEALTH

Cell salt for rainy season ailments T

HE rains are in full bloom, wetting the fields and forests, cooling the air and returning to the rivers and oceans from where the sun had pulled water up as water vapour. When I think of this event, I see behind it the great hand of Mother Nature’s Law of Giving and Taking. The earth gives, the earth receives. And this gives us the residents of this planet the blessings of more food, as the crops sprout in the fields and fish mushroom in the rivers and seas, and a cooler weather which compensates for the heat of the past few months which was, in fact, respite from the pounding of the bygone rainy months. I sometimes wonder how beautiful Nigeria our great country may have become if, as children, today’s adults had been taught always not to TAKE without GIVING! I wonder, also, about what Nigeria may have been like if, like the common folk, politicians did not have to empty the public treasure into the pockets of their clothes and give nothing in return to their looted country. But can you blame them? Aren’t they merely leaders of their people? And aren’t leaders merely people who, among a people, carry deep within them the strongest of the abilities for goodness or evil prevalent among a people? Aren’t shop girls and boys, like corporate chief executives, emptying the till as well? Someday, perhaps when the “beautiful ones” are “born”, this Law of Nature which the rainy season teaches us, would be given more respect in our lives, and our country would glow in beauty. Meanwhile, as students of Nature follow the seasons to learn what deep lessons of life each season’s wishes to teach, and falling in tune with the great Universe, there are many people who always appear left behind. These are the people whose health deteriorates in one season, picks up in another only to dip in yet another season. This has led doctors to classify a family of seasonal health problems as SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISEASE or SAD. The rainy season can, indeed be a sad seasons for many people, such as asthmatics, arthritics, or sufferers from intestinal troubles. Largely, the troubles come from the cold or damp environment and the wind which, in many cases, announce the coming of rainfall. The wind blows dust everywhere and, with the dust germs which cause air borne diseases. Rain water may also bring water borne diseases and the floods all sorts of germs. Many people are not lucky enough to live in upland parts of town. So, their homes and neighbourhoods are always flooded or damp. Dirty habits of the city dweller do not help matters either in upland area. Government failure to provide safe, drinking piped water for everyone has led to the growth of a gigantic private sector drinking water industry which sells its products in plastic bottles and cellophane sachets. These packages are dumped anywhere once their contents are consumed, and find their ways into drains. Rainfall time is an opportunity for many people to empty their waste at home in the gutters for the rain water in the open drains to carry them wherever in this case, means downstream, and flooding of downstream neighbourhoods. I felt bad one day two years ago wading through the floods at Ikeja Under bridge in Lagos. When I arrived home, I emplied a large quantity of table salt into the bath tub to give my toes, feet and other exposed parts of the body a salt scrub. After that I took herbal antibiotic teas. I do not know if many people take this kind of trouble to protect themselves after an exposure, such as this, to the water–borne germs. I will mention a few of the common rainy season problems which require protection against this rainy season to avoid a SAD, before I come to cell or tissue salts and some of the health troubles they have been known to help prevent or revent.

Malaria Pools of water are collecting almost everywhere. Mosquitoes will breed, in them, bite their victims and, most probably, give them Malaria fever. It is rare to find a person who drinks lemongrass tea every day and comes down with malaria. The chemicals in this plant kill the plasmodium (malaria causing parasite) in the bloodstream. Chanka piedra (Phyllanthus) does it, too I guess a proprietary product named PARACLEANSE will act likewise. It is a combination of many herbs, including wormwood, which is an anti–malaria. The proprietary blend SPECTRAGREEN, blend of over 40 green since these two plants are used to treat malaria fever; plants including pawpaw (Papaya) leaves and lemon grass leaves may have an anti – malaria action. As Plasmodium damages red blood cells, creating Oxygen shortage, which causes pains all over the body, blood building herbs such as Nettle, Yarrow and Chlorella may help. So should Oxygen tablets which not only supply Oxygen indirectly but also burn to death diseases causing parasites. So does JOBELYN a Nigeria antioxidant herbal blood formula. in the cell salt family, Ferrum phosphate (Ferrum Phos.) and Potassium Sulphate (Kali Sulph) do this beautifully.

Gastroenteritis This is trouble in the intestinal tract. Add to it diahrroea and Colitis, which is inflammation of the colon. The trouble comes from bacteria in dusty air and in water, and may be water or food borne. Think of the many food canteens which keep plates and cutlery in open baskets outdoor, and of those service girls who do not rinse the plates (at best, they merely wipe them with dirty napkins) before they serve your meal in them! In gastroenteritis, one is unable to eat or drink. An intense burning sensation develops after meals, and there may be blood (dark or fresh) in the stool. Blood indicates ulceration or laceration of the intestine, which may provide a habitat to germs and, if care is not taken, damaged further to a point at which the cells may become cancerous. The intestine may also suffer from diverticulosis or polyps and other diseases. The amino acid L, - Glutamine, Zinc, Vitamin S, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Selenium and Bioflavonoids may help to heal intestinal tract injuries. Cell salts also have a major role to play.

Asthma Like Bronchitis, Asthma is a respiratory system disease. Many suggestions have been given for its cause. They range from allegens to Magnesium deficiency. Allegens include Cocknacles, furry animals such as cats, dust mite, smoke e.t.c. Some researchers have linked the condition to infestation of Candida and mould, deficiency of essential fatty acids, Magnesium and Vitamin A, and dehydration. For me, if two people are exposed to the same allegens and one goes down but the other does not, there must be something other than more allegens in the equation. Is this a constitutional weakness of the lungs, in which case, nutritional deficiencies as listed above and cell salt deficiencies may be underlining causes? In bronchitis and asthma, cell salt practitioners watch out for the colour of phlegm or mucus, and the colour of the tongue… pinkish red, which is normal, or grayish and patched which is not the colour tells them which cell salt is missing or not enough in the system. When they supply it, the ailment goes!

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Unlike osteoarthritis, which is degeneration of bone cartilage, growth of bone spurs, rubbing bones, inflammation, pain and stiffness, rheumatoid arthritis is an immune disorder in which the body is attacking its own joints. Both conditions hate damp and cold weather and worsen in such conditions. The good old hot water bottle helps but there are not many good ones in town in these days in China-Made products. I often order direct from England when I have need for it. Those ones come with factory made jackets for women who are treating Uterine fibroids and need heat in that region, under camphorated castor therapy or not, find it useful to improve blood circulation in that region. It helps RA people, too, as it does people with arthritic fingers or atrophic fingers.

Pneumonitis This is inflammation of the lungs triggered sometimes by the invasion of fungi, including, Candida, mould or, simply, inhalation of dust. If the cause, is fungus or mould, the organisms produce antigens against which the body produces antibodies. Caught in the crossfire, lung tissue inflames. Cell salt practitioners prescribe remedies for it.

Fibromyalgia This is a condition of inflammation and pain in fibrous tissue in muscle, tendons, other connective tissue principally in the neck, shoulders, upper chest, rib cage, lower back, the arms and elbows.

The 12 Cell or Tissue Salts Dr Wilhelm Heinrich Schuessler (1821 – 1898) developed these 12 salts while condensing or simplifying Dr, Hahnemann’s over 200 Homeopathic remedies. He came to some conclusions, including that (1) If the human body was burnt to ash and the ash was analysed, it would yield 12 different biochemic salts which constitute all tissues in varying proportions peculiar to particular tissues. (2) Disease does not occur in a cell in which metabolism is in order. (3) Metabolism is normal if the cell has enough adequate mineral tissue or cell salts. (4) The cell’s ability to absorb nutrients and excrete wastes is disturbed by a deficiency of tissue salts. (45)Supply of specific tissue salts to the cell may restore normal metabolism. The 12 cell salts are numbered 1 – 12 in the following order: No 1: Calcium Flouride This biochemic salt ensures suppleness throught the body. A deficiency causes slackness which may result in swellings and hardening such as is evident in swollen gums and loose teeth, piles, enlarged heart, enlarged blood vessels (Varicose Veins), wearing of enamel of the teeth. Its value in supporting elasticity of tissue recommends it for such other conditions as muscle weak-

e-mail: femi.kusa@yahoo.com or olufemikusa@yahoo.com

ness and weakness of tendons, ligaments and fibrous tissue, and rigid joints (gout or arthritis). No2: Calcium Phosphate This is the regulator of healthy cellular activity. In its presence, other cell salts intensity their action. It is a great restorative in run downs conditions. It is a major constituent of all cells and fluids. Cyril Scot names its shortage in the eye as a cause of eye troubles. Also known as the Phosphate of Lime, good gardeners are said to know Calcium Phosphate is a major constituent of most productive soils, and, so, enrich the soil with it. It is probably for this reason that it features in the remedies of Children who are not growing properly, and in cases of infertility. It cannot be ignored in the building of healthy bones and bone joints. When it comes to cramps, Calcium Phosphate, with Magnesium Phosphate, calm the muscle. No 3: Calcium Sulphate A great blood purifier, it is a cousin of Silica (No12) in cleansing the blood of toxins, helping with liver detoxification and the healing of some skin ailments, including an acne and pimples and supports the formation of new skin cells. No 4: Ferrum Phosphate The body requires Oxygen to burn diseases, and here comes an Oxygen carrier. It oxygenates the outside of cells while Potassium Sulphate, another cell salt, oxygenates the inside. It fights congestions and inflammation. Of value in anaemia, Ferrum Phosphate delivers iron to the cells in small, homeopathic but effective doses, which does not cause iron build–up in the system or cause constipation as many Pharmaceutical iron pills do. This cell salt strengthens the walls of blood vessels, may stop abdominal bleeding and, when in short supply, has been identified as cause of fever and inflammation. No 5: Potassium Chloride Here comes the famous Kali Mur, an important constituent of muscles, nerve and brain cells without which the brain is said to be unable to form, a great destroyer of poisonous wastes, especially when the body is fighting off a fever or other infections, a blood thinner and, like ferrum phosphate,, a remedy for cold. No 6: Potassium Phosphate Kali phos is the most important of the three phosphate salts and is said to be the soother of jangled cells. It is plentiful in the gray matter of nerve cells, and complements magnesium phosphate which is active in the white matter of these cells. A shortage of one affects the functions of the other. Potassium phosphate is used worldwide as a natural tranquiliser and is reputable in the treatment of psychological problems, irritability, memory loss, dementia, sudden brain fog and rapid decomposition of the blood. No7: Potossum Sulphate Like ferrum phosphate, here’s another oxygenator of the blood and cells. It promotes the health of the lungs, is useful in asthma and bronchitis and skin health. Nicknamed the “Anti-friction” and the “Cellular Building Block,” kali sulph acts like a lubricant and helps to create new cells to replace those damaged or killed by disease. Its deficiency causes oil in the body to thicken and clog the pores of the skin. Such oil is often expelled, also, as a yellowish sticky discharge from any office of the body (the nose, vagina etc) or from a cancer, swollen gland or abscess, including boils. No 8: Magnesium Phosphates An antispasmodic, mag phos is good news for people who suffer from cramps, including foot and menstrual cramps, and palpitations of the heart. Nerve and muscle spasms of asthma, like these which cause premature ejaculation, also benefit from it. The same goes for twitches of eyelids. Magnesium Phosphate works even more powerfully when combined with the other two phosphate salts, Calcium Phosphate and Potassium Phosphate. Together they build nerve tone. Magnesium helps to stop nerve pain, such as is experienced in neuralgia or sciatic nerve problems. A deficiency may cause nervous, convulsions, epilepsy, flatulence from, indigestion, and other nervousness, system disturbances. No 9: Sodium Chloride This is by no means your table salt. It is Natrium Muri it is the “pre–eminent headache remedy”. Its main job is to set up and maintain osmotic pressure through which fluid enters the cell with nutrients and leaves with wastes. Another of its functions is to regulate fluid balance throughout the body, preventing dryness or water – logging. No 10: Sodium Phosphate This is the body’s biochemic antacid. It is fund everywhere in the body… blood, nerves, eyes, muscles, blood, brain, lungs and lympth… everywhere, to decompose acids and to balance body pH. People who suffer from ulcer, heartburn, heat in any part of the body benefit from sodium Phosphate (Natrium Phos) therapy. So do people who suffer from other problems caused by excess acids such as back pain, arthritis. No 11: Sodium Sulphate This is the cell salt for asthma. While Sodium Chloride attracts water to the body, Sodium Sulphate takes away excess water. It is especially friendly to the mucus membranes, which makes it good for asthma, sinus discharges, influenza, cold, and the bowels. It helps liver cleansing, and supports blood sugar metabolism and, by extensions diabetes therapy. No12: Silica Known as “the remarkable cellular cleanser” and “homeopathic surgeons, Silica dissolves boils and abscesses supports hair, skin and nail health, makes calcium deposit appropriately in bone, hardens bones, connective tissue, eliminates toxins and dissolves congestions and swellings. In the days before antibiotics were discovered and surgery was not rampant, Silica was named the homeopathic surgeon because it helped to solve most of the problems for which surgeon’s advice surgery today. In cases of hernia, for example, silica may so strengthen tissue fabric connective that makes a prolapse impossible. Beyond these and more, it is good for digestion and cleansing of the blood. Cell salt therapy is often described as “well kept secret of Alternative Medicine this column will continue to discuss it, even outside the rainy season.

Tel: 08116759749, 08034004247, 07025077303

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

THE NATION

e-Business 08111813065 e-mail: lukajanaku02@yahoo.com

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is proposing the regulation of interception of calls as part of its mandate. To some, the Draft Lawful Interception of Communications Regulation is good; others see no reason for it. The latter believes that invasion of citizens’ privacy should not be done by regulation but by legislation. LUCAS AJANAKU reports.

Should interception of calls be regulated? I

T was an interesting debate and the discussants cited relevant laws to back up their arguments. Former Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai, fired the first salvo by making reference to the fourth volume of William Blackstone’s Commentaries on the Laws of England, where eavesdropping was recorded as an offence. He spoke at a forum organised by a group, JACITAD, to review the Draft Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations of the National Communications Commission (NCC) in Lagos. In 1769, Blackstone said in Common Law, “Eavesdroppers, or such as listen under walls or windows, or the eaves of a house, to hearken after discourse, and thereupon to frame slanderous and mischievous tales, are a common nuisance and presentable at the court-leet; or are indictable at the session, and punishable by fine and finding of sureties for good behaviour.” el-Rufai, who said he was one of the architects of the Nigeria Communications Act 2003 that gave legal teeth to the NCC, said: “It is on reliance of and pursuant to sections 70, 72, 146, 147 and 148 that the NCC has issued “The Draft Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations (2013?).” He said to do justice to the draft regulation, it is important to establish the legitimacy of the regulation and examine its ‘substantive content and language.’ Doing this will involve knowing the constitutional provisions on privacy or otherwise of physical and electronic communications between citizens; conditions the constitution and laws allow the violation of such privacy, if any; whether the legislature, in passing the NCA ‘reasonably’ intended to give the NCC the powers to regulate the interception of private communications, thus enabling the infringement of fundamental rights without specific legislation via an Act of National Assembly. He added that it was also vital to establish if Sections 70, 72, 146-148 of the NCA granted the NCC the legitimacy to issue and enact the regulations under consideration, adding that if the constitution and NCA empower the NCC to issue the regulation, is fit to protect the privacy of the citizens while at the same time giving law enforcement agents access to citizens’ privacy in public interest. According to him, the primary duties of any government are internal security, maintenance of law and order and monopoly of coercive power over its territory, while respecting the rights of the citizens, adding that the challenge for any government is to what extent it can tamper with the rights of a few for the good of the many. “The dilemma for citizens is the extent to which they will give up their individual rights to a leviathan called government in order to be protected in the arrangement Rousseau called a social contract,” he averred, stressing that while citizens are entitled to their dignity and privacy, governments argue that they can protect citizens only if they know what a handful of criminal elements may be up to. But with the rapid development of communications and encryption technologies, side by side with the proliferation of cybercrimes, terrorism and insurgencies, this question has become even more troubling for everyone. Striking a balance between respecting individual privacy and spying enough on citizens to ensure our collective security is the standard that should be applied to analyse the regulations being proposed, he said. On the legitimacy of the regulation, he said it contravened the provisions of 1999 constitution of Nigeria. Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 deals with fundamental rights of citizens that

•Base Station

are guaranteed against the state. He quoted relevant sections of the constitution, which will be breached if the government unlawfully intercepts communications between citizens. Section 37 is very specific about telephone communications: “The privacy of citizens, their homes, correspondence, telephone conversations and telegraphic communications is hereby guaranteed and protected,” he said, adding that the provision is, however, moderated by Section 45 which states: “(1) Nothing in sections 37, 38, 39, 40 and 41 of this Constitution shall invalidate any law that is reasonably justifiable in a democratic

society (a) in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health; or (b) for the purpose of protecting the rights and freedom of other persons.” He said the NCC has no powers to regulate the subject matter it is seeking to do, Section 70 of NCA 2003 empowers the NCC to make and publish regulations for six classes of issues all of which have to do with technical and economic regulation of the industry, and none to do with citizens’ rights to the privacy of their communications. “Section 72 merely enables the NCC to review rules and regulations already issued,

‘As things stand, critical sectors of the industry are distressed. Some licencees might not have the resources to comply, especially in an environment characterised by flux as technology continues to change dramatically’

while sections 146 and 147 refer to technical issues and legal indemnities when licensees are required to assist law enforcement agencies in preventing the commission of crimes. The sections do not obviate the need for an Act of the National Assembly that will ‘authorise interception’ of communications without violating the constitution. Merely mentioning these in Ss. 146-147 does suffice in my humble opinion,” he said. Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs, Airtel, Osondu Nwokoro, said it is trite that interception of communications interferes with the right to privacy. He said such interference however, is expected to conform to extant international and domestic laws. On the paragraph that allows interception with a warrant issued by a judge, he said it seeks to impose an obligation on operators to intercept subscriber’s communication. “Our understanding in obeying NCC’s directive that we make our networks intercept capable and grant access to both the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Directorate of State Service (SSS) is that both agencies shall mark, monitor and intercept numbers of interest independent of operators. He lamented that requiring operators to intercept has administrative and security implications which are too onerous for operators to bear. On the paragraph that details who can apply for a warrant, the structure of an application for a warrant and the circumstances under which an interception can be done without a warrant, among other things and a proviso which requires intercepts done without Warrant to be regularised via Warrant within 48 hours of its occurrence of commencement, he said it should be expanded to provide an exculpatory clause protecting operators from liability for acts or omissions done further to the duty the paragraph imposes. He said the paragraph should state clearly that receiving a communication, purporting to emanate from the NSA should be sufficient for the licencee to act. In other words, there should be no duty on the licencee to investigate the veracity or otherwise of the letter, instrument or communication from the NSA. On the prohibition of certain communications services which state that “Notwithstanding any other law in force….” He argued that the paragraph also prohibits certain communications services and makes it the responsibility of the licensee to acquire, at its cost, devices and facilities that will enable monitoring of communications. “We contend that the use of the phrase “Notwithstanding any other law in force ...” supposes that the NCC can by regulation proscribe an Act of the National Assembly. The NCC cannot do this. We, therefore, suggest that the offending phrase be removed or redrafted to reflect what the NCC can safely do. On the requirement that intercept capability be acquired at the licencee’s cost, he said it should be reconsidered in the light of operational realities in the country, adding that licencees are operating in challenging environment and require support to succeed. “As things stand, critical sectors of the industry are distressed. Some licencees might not have the resources to comply, especially in an environment characterised by flux as technology continues to change dramatically” he said, adding that licencees derive no economic benefit from providing interception capability on their networks. He argued that in other jurisdictions like the United States under the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA), support is provided to licensees to ensure that the requirement for intercept capability does not become a burden.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

INDUSTRY

Nigeria’s bilateral trade with Turkey hits $1.3b

•Aganga (middle), Goni (right) and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Investment Dauda Kigbu during the visit.

Ministry seeks ‘right tools’ to actualise reform agenda T

HE Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment has asked for what it calls the “right tools” to enable it discharge its job. Minister of Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga told the Head of Civil Service, Alhaji Baker Aji, who visited him, that the ministry was ready to actualise the government’s reform agenda. He said: “For now give us the right tools to do our jobs, that is all we are asking you to prioritise and help us to transform and assist us to work for Nigerians. If you are looking for investment, you compete with everyone from other countries to attract investment to your country. If you are talking about trade it is not just about regional or domestic trade, it is about international trade. You have to understand the language, communicate effectively and negotiate appropriately with your colleagues internationally. You need exposure and training to do the work”. Aganga said on assumption of of-

Stories by Toba Agboola

fice, he had to grapple with the structure and staff. He asked for capacity building for directors in the ministry. He said they need to be trained and exposed to enable them work like their counterparts in other part of the world. The minister said there was an opportunity for everyone to transform the economy to address the issues of wealth creation and poverty alleviation, adding that Nigerians are natural entrepreneurs who can run and start their businesses easily. He said the tools to move people from line of poverty to high wages and increase in per capita income is SMEs development. He pointed out that that no country has ever historically moved from being a poor to a rich nation without having a strong industrial and related services sector. The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Alhaji Goni Aji an-

nounced the agency’s support for the reform programme of the Ministry. Goni said the ministry is very critical to the nation’s economic development and assured the Minister that his office will do everything possible to assist in whatever area the Ministry will require to drive the Reform Programme. His words: “Whatever assistance is required to reposition the Ministry to attract foreign partners and investors and improve our national economic development, the office of the Head of Service of the Federation is ready, and we can actually start now” He advised the Ministry to start the implementation of the Reform Programme with two or three core departments as pilot departments before implementing same in other departments, adding that the exercise was in line with the earlier directive from the President that any Ministry that was critical to the repositioning of the national economy must, therefore, be professionalised.

HE volume of trade be tween Nigeria and Turkey has risen to $1.3billion annually, the Deputy National President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dahiru Mohammed, has said. at the second edition of the Nigeria-Turkey Business Summit, in Bauchi. He said Nigeria was one of Turkey’s biggest business partners in Africa and second among sub-Saharan countries, adding that Nigeria was also the 47th largest supplier of imported goods to Turkey going by the 2012 records. Mohammed urged the Turkish businessmen to take advantage of Nigeria’s population and invest heavily in the country. “Nigeria, with a population of over 160 million people and a large market in Africa, possesses enough potential for profitability of foreign invest-

ment. Enormous investment opportunities exist in virtually all sectors of the Nigerian economy.” He listed agriculture, manufacturing, solid minerals, construction, oil and gas, tourism, power and telecommunication, as well as information and communication technology as some of the sectors that could be explored by the Turkish businessmen. Also speaking at the summit, the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Yahaya Miya, on behalf of the business delegation from Bauchi, urged Turkish businessmen to take advantage of the tourism potential in the state to invest there. He also urged Turkish businessmen to invest in the Yankari Game Reserve, which he described as the largest eco-tourism park in West Africa. He added that the state was also ready to host the next edition of the summit if permitted to do so.

ECOWAS partners GE on regional integration

CONOMIC Community of West Africa ,ECOWAS, and America’s GE Corporation are to explore areas of cooperation, in energy projects and infrastructure development to boost regional trade integration. A statement from ECOWAS said this was a key outcome of a meeting between officials of the ECOWAS Commission and a GE delegation, which paid a courtesy call on the Commission’s Vice President, Dr. Toga Gayewea McIntosh in Abuja last week. Receiving the four-member delegation, led by Mr Karan Bhatia, GE’s Vice, President and Senior Counsel, Global Government Affairs and

Policy, Dr. McIntosh, on behalf of the President of the Commission, said the new management at the Commission was calibrating its priorities for effective balance between peace and security and economic development, to deliver on its mandate. He explained that the inability of individual countries to harness the region’s vast resources makes integration inevitable especially through public private partnerships. The statement stressed that the Vice President named energy, transportation, oil and gas, health care and capacity building, as the potential areas of collaboration and partnership between ECOWAS and GE.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

THE NATION THURSDAY MAY 23, 2013

NEWS Security reports on Ondo 2007 election forged, say Police, SSS

ACN, Akeredolu appeal Ondo tribunal’s verdict

HROUGH two of its state officers – Ebenezer Alabi and Oyedele Ibine, chairman and secretary respectively, the Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted that Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his Labour Party (LP) tendered forged document to sack former Governor Olusegun Agagu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to them, the police and the State Security Service (SSS) reports presented to the 2007 Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on which the Justice Garba Nabaruma-led tribunal relied upon to nullify Agagu’s election was confirmed as forged. A statement jointly signed by the duo said the forged document paved the way for the declaration of Dr. Mimiko and his LP as the winner of the 2007 governorship election. The tribunal relied on the reports to nullify the result of election in 10 local government areas where Agagu had won. They alleged that the Court of Appeal, sitting in Benin, the Edo State capital, on February 23, 2009 upheld the ruling of the tribunal on the strength of the forged reports. The statement reads: “Agagu had won the April 14, 2007 governorship election. In the result declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Agagu secured 349,258 votes to defeat Mimiko who polled 226,021. “But after the cancellation of the election results in 10 out of the 18 local government areas of the state by the tribunal, Mimiko emerged as the governor with 198,269 votes against the earlier winner, Agagu, who the Nabaruma-led tribunal credited with 128, 669 votes.” Shortly after his ouster, Agagu petitioned the Presidency alleging that the LP forged a State Security Service (SSS) reports in the Sunshine State, during the 2007 election and which were presented at the election petition tribunal. He added that despite the testimony by SSS officials that security reports were forged, the tribunal went ahead to nullify the result of election in 10 local government areas. Specifically, Agagu and the PDP urged President Godluck Jonathan to investigate the matter to safeguard “our democracy which is the beacon of our sustainable development.” Acting on the petition, the President directed the InspectorGeneral of Police, who in turn, asked the Special Investigations Unit, Force Headquarters, Abuja, to handle the matter. The Commissioner of Police in charge of Special Investigations Unit, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Ali Amodu, in his report entitled: ‘Police Investigation Report on a Case of Forgery and Uttering of State Security Services Report,’ to the IGP confirmed the forgery in its report.

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

•Akeredolu

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and its candidate in last October’s governorship election in Ondo State, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), yesterday filed an appeal against the ruling of the Election Petition Tribunal, which declared Governor Olusegun Mimiko winner of the poll. The suit was filed at the Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, the state capital. It is against the whole judgment, except the portion favourable to the ACN. The appeal, based on 39 grounds, was filed by 52 lawyers, led by Chief Akin Olujimi (SAN).

From Adekunle Jimoh , Ilorin

Association in the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN). The commissioner, who was represented by the former Chairman of the Governing Council of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Dr. Laoye Adegoke, said the decentralisation of power generation and distribution is a non-negotiable prerequisite for national development. The lecture was organised in honour of a former Registrar of the institution and an indigene of Ondo State, Mrs.

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi yesterday approved the appointment of six judges into the judiciary. They are the Chief Registrar of the State High Court, Mrs. O. Olatunji; Mr. Bayo Taiwo from the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja; former Vice-Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association

Folake Oyeyemi. It was attended by the Deji of Akure, Oba Adebiyi Adesida and his wife; former UNILORIN Deputy ViceChancellor, Prof. Luke Edungbola; Prof. T. O. Daramola; UNILORIN Librarian Prof. J.O. Omoniyi; the DVC, Prof. Felix OLadele and Mrs. Mosun Adesuyi, a former Permanent Secretary in Ondo State. Also present were Mrs. Lydia Faloye; Chief Vincent Akin Fabiyi; Mrs Kike Adeniyi; Mrs. Dunni Fagbayigbo and Hajia Jumoke Oba-AbdulRaheem.

Ogun attends to 5,224 accident victims

HE Ogun State Ambulance Service (OGSAS) has attended to over 5,224 accident victims in the last one year. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka, spoke with reporters yesterday on the second anniversary of the Governor Ibikunle Amosun administration. He said the rescue mission covered 811 accidents involving 1,257 vehicles.

To enhance communication between OGSAS operatives and the public, Soyinka said a new toll-free telephone line would be introduced soon. He said more ambulances would be bought and more personnel recruited to improve service delivery. Soyinka said: “Model hospitals would be built in each of the nine federal constituencies. We are presently identifying the sites for the

hospitals. They will come up in the next few months.” On the status of the Trauma Centre, the commissioner said it would soon be equipped for improved services. He said his ministry, the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) and the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) recently burnt unwholesome drugs worth N1.5 million.

Buhari, Tinubu, Aregbesola, Falana for dialogue

ORMER Head of State Gen. Muhammadu Buhari will on Tuesday chair a national political discourse on insecurity, irregularities in the electoral process, corruption, unemployment and infrastructure decay. The programme will hold at the Trenchard Hall of the University of Ibadan (UI). Participants will speak on “Fourteen years of democracy in Nigeria: What would have been

By Joseph Jibueze

the expectations of our founding fathers?” and “Journey into the 2015 General Election: How prepared are we (the ruler and the ruled)?”. The National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, is the special guest of honour. Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and activist-lawyer Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) are the guest

evidence of their expert, which was based on its order. The appellants alleged that the tribunal erroneously ruled that the expert’s qualification was not disclosed, even though it was in the report admitted in evidence by it. They alleged that the tribunal ignored Mimiko’s admission of irregularity and noncompliance in Irele and Ilaje local governments, which corroborated their case. The appellants said since the Labour Party (LP) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not call any witness and Mimiko’s witnesses confirmed their allegation of non-compliance with the Electoral Act, the judgment should have been in their favour. They said the ruling was not in line with the evidence before the tribunal and urged the Court of Appeal to set it aside and order a fresh election.

Chief Registrar, five others appointed judges in Oyo

‘Give states power to generate electricity’ NDO State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice Eyitayo Jegede (SAN) has urged the Federal Government to allow states generate and distribute electricity. He said this would facilitate economic growth. Eyitayo called for the abrogation of the constitutional provisions that hinder states from generating and distributing power. He spoke in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, while delivering a lecture during the 2013 Cocoa/Bitumen Day celebration organised by the Ondo State Students

The appellants said the tribunal failed to consider the documentary evidence before it and the testimonies of their witnesses, which showed that many voters were not accredited, as well as the corroborating testimonies of Mimiko’s witnesses under cross examination. They said the tribunal erred by ruling that only the evidence of polling agents could prove the petitioners’ allegations. The appellants said the tribunal ought not to rely on the findings in a previous judgment to decide the case. They criticised the tribunal’s ruling that the manipulation of the voters’ register was a pre-election matter and it had no jurisdiction over it. The appellants said the tribunal could entertain the matter because it falls under Section 183(1) of the Electoral Act, which deals with noncompliance with the Act. They said the tribunal was

inconsistent, explaining that it once said all exhibits were not presented before it and later held that they were dumped on it. The appellants said the tribunal applied a non existing “Section 131(5) of the Electoral Act” to decline jurisdiction over the voters’ register, which forms the fulcrum of a valid election. They said lack of objection cannot validate a void voters’ register, adding that giving soft copies of the voters’ register to a party was not a substitute to the mandatory display of the register before an election. The appellants said the secrecy of balloting guaranteed by the Electoral Act would be compromised, if they had to prove who the over 164,000 persons, whose names were illegally injected into the voters’ register, voted for, as suggested by the tribunal’s judgment. They complained that the tribunal did not evaluate the

speakers. Governors Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) and Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) are the guests of honour. Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi is the chief host. The event, which will be preceded by a press conference on Saturday, is organised by the Coalition for a Better Nigeria, an alliance of pro-democracy, civil and non-governmental organisations.

(NBA), Ibadan branch, Mr. Lekan Owolabi; Mr. G. Sunmonu; Mrs. O. Fadeyi and Mr. E. Ajayi. In a statement, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Bayo Ojo, said the appointment followed the recommendation of

the National Judicial Council (NJC). The judges would be sworn-in on Monday. Their appointment has brought the number of judges in the state judiciary to 22. Judges were last appointed into the state judiciary in 2006.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMA RY AS AT 22-05-13

Shareholders approve N81b new capital for Skye Bank

HAREHOLDERS of Skye Bank Plc yesterday overwhelmingly approved resolutions empowering the directors of the bank to raise more than N81 billion in new equity and debt capital as the bank seeks to consolidate its competitive edge within the industry. At the annual general meeting (AGM) of the bank in Lagos, shareholders approved a resolution to enable the board raise N50 billion in new equity funds and as much as $200 million in tier 2 capital, otherwise known as debt or quasi-debt issuance. Shareholders also empowered the board to absorb over-subscriptions, which implies the bank could access more than face target of N81 billion. Shareholders commended the performance of the bank citing impressive growths in all key indicators and increase in dividend payout. They approved the cash dividend of N6.6 billion, representing a dividend per share of 50 kobo. National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Sir Sunny Nwosu, said the bank has been consistent in ensuring good returns to shareholders. He however lamented what he described as untidy regulatory practices, which have been militating against banks. President, Nigeria Shareholders Solidarity Association (NSSA), Chief Timothy Adesiyan, applauded the improved efficiency in the bank’s operations. In his address, chairman,

•Shares rally N68b By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

Skye Bank Plc, Mr Olatunde Ayeni said the bank posted a remarkable performance in 2012 in spite of challenges encountered during the year. According to him, the cost management and efficiency initiatives which were introduced early in 2012 had evident positive impact on the performance of the bank. He said the bank would improve on its performance in the new business year citing expected improvement in the macro economy and ongoing growth initiatives by the bank as reasons. Managing director, Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti said the bank would explore several interesting opportunities in its chosen business segments across the major sectors of the economy to bolster performance. According to him, with the conclusion of the divestment from all non-bank subsidiaries, the bank would now be able to focus entirely on its core mandate of financial intermediation. “The bank will explore new business opportunities in the existing segments of focus, while seeking new frontiers in other available sectors within the vagaries of local and international conditions. We shall continue to maintain our commitment to corporate governance, due process and

professionalism,” DurosinmiEtti said. He said the bank would seek to rapidly grow its operations while it will continue to be guided by the goal of creating value for shareholders and maintaining its going concern status. Meanwhile, Skye Bank and other 38 stocks rallied N68 billion in capital gains yesterday as the bullish rally at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) gathered momentum. Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities rose from its opening value of N11.842 trillion to close at N11.910 trillion. The main index, the All Share Index (ASI), also trended upward from 37,046.63 points to 37,259.91 points. Total Nigeria topped the gainers’ list with a gain of N11.10 to close at N170. Cadbury Nigeria followed with addition of N4.85 to close at N53.35. Mobil Oil Nigeria rose by N4 to close at N118. GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria added N3.90 to close at N52.90. Ashaka Cement gathered N2.45 to close at N27. Dangote Cement rose by N2 to close at N186 while PZ Cussons Nigeria added N1.85 to close at N54.50. Skye Bank’s share price improved by 1.39 per cent or 7.0 kobo to N5.09. On the downside, Nigerian Breweries led the decliners with a loss of N1.97 to close at N173.03. Julius Berger Nigeria followed with a loss of N1 to close at N55. Investors staked a total of N4.12 billion on 468.75 million shares in 6,224 deals. Banking stocks accounted for a turnover of 180.67 million shares worth N1.81 billion in 2111 deals. Insurance subsector recorded a turnover of 104.37 million shares worth N172.31 million in 208 deals.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 22-05-13

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

MONEY LINK CBN refutes report on Refinancing AMCON won’t criticism of emergency rule have adverse effect, says Rewane T T

HE plan by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to redeem and refinance N5.7 trillion of its bonds, equivalent to 37 per cent of money supply, in a bilateral agreement with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) may not necessarily lead to any potent inflationary or currency depreciation contrary to fears in some quarters. The Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) had yesterday noted that theN5.7 trillion refinancing would triple money supply this year and could lead to negative consequences for the economy. According to NESG, the implications of the refinancing is that money supply could grow by three times the projected rate in 2013 while monetary policy would remain tight towards the first quarter of 2014. Besides, it said that the government would have an “actual” debt to GDP ratio of 27 per cent versus the limit of 30 per cent stated by the President. But some financial experts have allayed fears of any large unintended consequences. Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, said the fears of inflationary and currency declines were mostly misplaced and grossly exaggerated. The expert said while there is the orthodox correlation between money supply growth and inflation, the fact that a substantial portion of these bonds have already been monetised in repurchase agreements by some banks reduces the potency of this threat and any

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday refuted a report insinuating that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), under the chairmanship of the CBN Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido, at its meeting on Tuesday condemned the emergency rule recently declared in three Northern states of Yobe, Borno and Adamawa. In a statement signed by director, corporate communications, CBN, Mr Ugochukwu Okoroafor, the banking watchdog expressed concern over a news report purportedly emanating from the communiqué of the MPC claiming that “Sanusi Condemns Emergency Rule”.

Stories by Taofik Salako

possible fallout. The national headline inflation rate is annually around 9.1 per cent and the Naira has been stable within a three-year range of N150 –N160. Some analysts had raised concerns that the refinancing could truncate the relative stability. Analysts had expressed fears that the plan will have the unintended consequence of the transmission effect usually associated with high powered money. But Rewane said the effect of the refinancing may be muted given the previous repurchase agreements that had substantially reduced the underlying size. In a report titled: “AMCON: The Cost of Financial Stability,” the NESG had stated that the debt refinancing was a major challenge for AMCON in the short-term. AMCON is billed to retire about N2 trillion of its bonds in 2013 and refinance approximately N3.6 trillion, which matures in 2014. The amount of money in supply is about N15 trillion, which has been growing annually at 13 per cent. The group noted that AMCON’s plan would liquidate 35 per cent - about N2 trillion of its bond liabilities on one hand, while the remainder 65 per cent - about N3.6 trillion would be refinanced through the CBN. The NESG said that on the surface, the plan would solve AMCON’s short term challenge but will also extend the associated risks into the medium to long-term. It said the three per cent narrow

‘Public Key Infrastructure will enhance banking reforms’

HEN the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) initiative of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is implemented, it will add a new fillip to ongoing reforms of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to institutionalise a cashless society, an official of the apex bank, Segun Osunaike, has said. Speaking at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, venue of the public presentation of the Draft Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to stakeholders, Osunride, who is an assistant director, Information Technology Department of the financial sector regulator, said the initiative will boost electronic payment platform being promoted by the apex bank. He spoke on The Experience of the CBN on PKI. He noted that the apex bank had earlier run a model framework on PKI, which recorded a huge success

• AMCON CEO, Mustafa Chike-Obi

debt window left to explore would continue to crowd out the private sector. The NESG said that from a ‘fiscal risk’ perspective, a future write-off of AMCON’s debt could cost the economy about nine per cent of GDP, which is equal to the GDP contribution of the entire telecoms sector. “Overall, AMCON’s refinancing plan is a clear case of ‘Bailing out the Bailer.’ The morality and prudence of this bailout are both questionable,” it said. An Economist, who elected not to be quoted, said he cannot understand the logic behind the NESG’s conclusion that the amount of money in supply would triple. “I disagree entirely with the NESG. Don’t forget that neither its Director-General nor its Chairman is an Economist,” he said.

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 22-05-13

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

CADBURY FORTISMFB ASHAKACEM COSTAIN EVANSMED GLAXOSMITH CONTINSURE TOTAL NEIMETH VITAFOAM

48.50 6.00 24.55 1.13 2.16 49.00 1.20 158.90 0.75 3.15

53.35 6.60 27.00 1.24 2.37 52.90 1.29 170.00 0.80 3.30

4.85 0.60 2.45 0.11 0.21 3.90 0.09 11.10 0.05 0.15

RTBRISCOE TOURIST JULI COURTVILLE LEARNAFRCA WAPIC WEMABANK CUSTODYINS PRESTIGE REDSTAREX

O/PRICE 1.80 4.53 2.37 0.85 1.80 1.01 1.19 1.66 0.65 4.70

C/PRICE 1.62 4.08 2.14 0.77 1.65 0.94 1.12 1.57 0.62 4.51

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

MPR

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

July ’12

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

NSE CAP Index

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

CHANGE 0.18 0.45 0.23 0.08 0.15 0.07 0.07 0.09 0.03 0.19

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

LOSERS AS AT 22-05-13

SYMBOL

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

OBB Rate Call Rate

By Lucas Ajanaku

because it guarded against the perpetration of fraud. He said with the initiative, there was safety of transaction data. : “We are talking of fraud here. It will give authorisation and authentication (to transactions and all the data associated with such transactions). If you bypass the security, the abiility to prove that you did it will be there. So it will eliminate fraud,” he said. Speaking at the occasion, Director General, NITDA, Prof Cleopas O Angaye, said for the nation to achieve its vision contained in the Vision 20:2020, it must embrace the PKI initiative, which he said will be funded by both the public and private sectors of the economy. Angaye said PKI is the only technology that satisfies the privacy, authentication, integrity and non-repudiation (PAIN) principle of security.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

The apex bank stated that the lead story of the Abuja-based newspaper was a complete misrepresentation of the content of the MPC Communiqué No. 89, issued on May 21, 2013. “The said MPC communiqué never, in any form, condemned the state of emergency in the affected states. For the avoidance of doubt, and in reviewing the likely factors that could influence economic dynamics in the coming months, the MPC communiqué, cited the fiscal implication of the state of emergency, which is a likely increase in government spending, thus making it imprudent to embark on monetary easing at this time,” the apex bank stated.

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE INVE 142.11 141.62 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 157.84 156.84 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.15 1.15 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.08 1.07 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 100.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 1,000.00 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,814.65 1,806.71 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 14.39 13.69 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 1.33 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 1.80 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 11,767.22 11,419.33 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CITYBEATS Safety campaign in schools By Yinka Aderibigbe

THE Director General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mrs. Dominga Odebunmi, has reaffirmed government's resolve to ensure that tertiary institutions in the state in particular, are safe for learning. Odebunmi spoke during her courtesy call on the management of the Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu, a Lagos suburb. She noted that "the impediments we accommodate become hazards if left unattended to, hence the need to always ensure we adhere to best safety practices at all times." Expressing the need to commence a train-the-trainer safety training programme in the school to address the issues, Mrs Odebunmi decried the spate of recent avoidable incident that led to avoidable deaths and property loss in all phases of the educational sector. Rector of the institution, Dr. Abdulazeez Lawal, said the school is endowed with abundant human resources and investments, adding that the need for the proposed safety training is imperative to safeguard students' lives. The Commission had held safety conferences and campaigns in both private and public schools in recent times to draw awareness to the need for all to imbibe safety consciousness.

Abia group seeks N100m for project THE Lagos branch of Umuode Nsulu Development Association (UNDA), will on Saturday, hold a N100-million building project launch under the chairmanship of Dr Desmond Ali. The association's Lagos Branch chairman, Mr. Iheanyi Oruh, said that the association would use any fund raised to build a hall as well as other developmental projects in their Abia State home. He added that the ceremony would be held at NEBO Hall, Albati Barrack, near Ojuelegba, Lagos, with Hon. Uzo Azubuike, chairman, Committee on Public Petitions, House of Representatives, as Special Guest of Honour.

• Abia State Governor Theordore Orji

St John's Knights for launch By Nneka Nwaneri

THE Knights of St John will on Saturday launch its Hall and Retreat Centre project which is sited at Warewa Village, off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State. The event, which is scheduled to hold at the Welcome Centre and Hotels, Murtala Muhammed International Airport Road, Lagos, is one of the few projects the association has embarked on in the past. In a statement signed by the President of St John, Sir Hilary Okhuelegbe, the projected N150 million projects will serve as a place of worship and retreat for the propagation, research and teaching of the word of God. The area mapped out is now of immense use to the Parish in Arepo as an outstation where various church programmes are held. Among guests expected at the ceremony are the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Rev Adewale Martins and the state governor's wife, Dame Abimbola Fashola.

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

Arowolo: 'I wouldn't ever think of hurting my wife'

HE trial of Akolade Arowolo over the murder of his banker wife, Titilayo Omosoje, resumed yesterday. It was at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja, being presided over by Justice Lateefa Okunnu. Arowolo allegedly stabbed his 29year-old wife to death at their Isolo, Lagos residence on June 24, 2011. However, Akolade, who claimed to be a youth pastor, reiterated how much he loved his wife, insisting that he did not kill her. "I did not kill my wife. I never thought of it; I would never have done that as I am not that kind of person. I love my wife so much to want to see her hurt. And that is why I did all I could to ensure we stayed together. I love my wife and my daughter, Olamide, so much," he said. Akolade, who was testifying as the sixth defence witness in the case instituted against him by Lagos State before Justice Okunnu, also said he did all he could to save his wife's life. "As a result of what happened on that day, I could equally have died from the injuries on me and the risk I took jumping from a four-storey building, while trying to save her from death. I still have a lot of medical challenges as a result of the injuries I sustained," he said. He recalled what transpired between him and his late wife, claiming

‘I could equally have died from the injuries on me and the risk I took jumping from a four-storey building, while trying to save her from death. I still have a lot of medical challenges as a result of the injuries I sustained’ By Adebisi Onanuga

that it was his wife that attacked him with a knife while he was trying to give her the phone to receive her sister's (Folake's) call. Akolade said that he was caught unawares when his late wife allegedly attacked her and that he tried everything he could to avoid being stabbed by taking the knife from her. His late wife, he said, didn't give him any reason for her actions that day, but only continued to lash out at him. He told the court: "I was trying to regain my balance and I was shouting, "Omo, what's wrong with you?" But rather than answer me, she was shouting, 'I will kill you and kill myself.' While I was trying to calm her, she came at my navel and I had no choice

• The couple ... before the incident

than to try to disarm her. "The knife almost cut my right palm into two and I had other cuts. I was bleeding all over and we were struggling for the knife until we fell down on the bed. The struggle continued and in the process, I sustained other lacerations and the knife dropped from her hand." "I then asked: 'Omo what all this?' She said she was sorry. I told her to be calm while I made to go for help, but the door was locked and the key was not there. I kept asking: 'Omo, where's the key?' She was pointing at some places and I was scattering everywhere to locate the key. I didn't see the key. What came to my mind was to break down the door. I ran to the kitchen, took a long spoon, hammer and knife, but when I couldn't get it opened, in annoyance, I threw them

on the floor and jumped from the verandah," Akolade further claimed. He said his mechanic coincidentally brought his car at that time and he entered it to go to the nearest police station for help. But he said before he got to the station, he saw some policemen and that while talking to them, a car hit him and he lost consciousness. Akolade said a Good Samaritan took him from the place on a commercial motorcycle. He also said he could not remember all that happened thereafter until he woke up the next day and found himself on the dump-site of a public school. Speaking on how his wife reacted to the development, Akolade stated: "She was either drunk, mentally sick or hypnotised. That morning, she promised me that she had decided to be the best of wives. She said she would no longer hit me or leave

LASTMA official crushes boy to death By Jude Isiguzo, Police Affairs Correspondant

N official of the Lagos State Transport Management Agency (LASTMA), who allegedly crushed 14-year-old, Junior Okafor with his Pathfinder Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) yesterday, at Alaguntan, Ipaja area of Lagos, by a whisker. He narrowly escaped a mob action. The LASTMA official, who was allegedly driving one-way, following the early morning traffic snarls, which has made driving along the route a nightmare, crushed the boy, who is said to be a student of Estate High School, Gowon Estate. The late Okafor was said to be on his way to school when the incident that terminated his life occurred around 7:15am. It was gathered that immediately the incident occurred, sympathisers stormed the scene for a mob action against the "reckless" LASTMA official. However, he was allegedly beaten to a pulp by street urchins who had their hide-out somewhere around the place. He was about to be set ablaze when policemen from the nearby Gowon Estate Police Station reportedly came to his rescue. The policemen, it was learnt, bundled the helpless LASTMA official into their van and moved him to their station to prevent his killing. However, the hoodlums were angry at the fact that the same LASTMA people would always arrest motorists for driving against traffic. They, therefore, followed them to the police station and demanded that the suspect be handed over to them. A source said: "They threatened to burn the station if the LASTMA man was not released to them for jungle justice. But some senior police officers around assured them that justice would be done." Police spokesperson, Ngozi Braide, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP), confirmed the incident to The Nation on telephone. She, however, said that the LASTMA official did not drive against traffic, saying that his car’s brake failed.

• R-L: Lagos State Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mrs Florence Modupe Oguntuase; Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs Folashade Jaji, and Permanent Secretary, Civil Service Pensions Office, Mrs Folashade Adesoye at the second-year Ministerial Press Briefing on the Governor Babatunde Fashola-led administration’s sixth year in office at The Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja ... yesterday. PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

Rep, monarchs parley for development

MEMBER of the House of Representatives, Hon Bamidele Faparusi, has assured that he would continue to devise ways of meaningfully engaging youths and women in his constituency to arrest criminal tendencies. Faparusi, an engineer, said he brought Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centres to three major towns in the constituency to expose youths to various opportunities in their domains. The lawmaker, who represents Ekiti South Federal Constituency 11, comprising Gbonyin/Ekiti East/Emure Local Government Areas, frowned at the rate at which youths engage in cyber crimes, which he said, is inimical to the country's image. He spoke at Omuo Ekiti while inspecting some constituency projects in his domain. Some of the projects include: Three 50-capacity ICT centres, each at Emure, Ode and Ilasa; a modern library at Omuo, and electricity projects in two

Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

other notable towns. All, he said, would gulp N312 million as contained in the 2012 Budget. Faparusi visited the palaces of Olomuo of Omuo Ekiti, Oba Noah Omonigbehin; Elemure of Emure Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo and the Olode of Ode Ekiti, where the monarchs praised him for being serviceable. The lawmaker assured that all the projects billed for execution during his tenure would be done through local experts, particularly from the constituency. He said the House of Representatives would soon enact a law that would make it difficult for Nigerians to engage in cyber crimes, adding that a committee had been set up to fine-tune arrangements on the passage of such a bill into law. He said measures would be put in place to ensure that youths are not allowed to use the ICT centres to perpetrate frauds that could further damage the image of the country.

• Oba Omonigbehin and Faparusi ... during th

The lawmaker said he decided to upgrade the library at Omuo with modern facilities to improve reading culture among youths in the town. He explained: "We are now in the world of ICT. It is now possible for students to acquire foreign certificates. You can study in any foreign university without necessarily going to that country. They can also explore job opportunities. So, the benefits of ICT are not quantifiable." Faparusi, a chieftain of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), urged the host

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

Land speculators 'dupe' soldiers, others •We're not fraudsters, say suspects

the house again; that no matter our differences, she would not leave again. She said I should stop her and ensure that she didn't, as that's the only way I could help her control her anger "That is why when I saw her dressed up that day, I told her 'I would not allow you go because I just made a promise to you this morning.' That's when she pushed me with my chain and slapped me. Her actions and behaviour were not consistent with the wife I left at home, wearing my boxers and a see-through top." Akolade claimed that it was the love that he had for his wife that made him stick to the marriage. At that point, he concluded his testimony and his counsel closed his defence. Justice Okunnu adjourned the matter till September 17 for adoption of written addresses by both the state and defence.

'With one-hour rain, we're homeless'

WO suspected land speculators who allegedly duped some military personnel and other innocent Nigerians with nonexisting properties have been arrested by operatives of the Special Fraud Unit (SFU), Ikoyi, Lagos. The suspects were arrested following a petition received by the Commissioner of Police in charge of SFU, Mr Tunde Ogunsakin. In the petition dated March 8, the complainants alleged that in September 2010, the suspects - Ayoade Precious Abidemi (29) and Tope Ajisegiri Kehinde (30) - approached them that they had a large expanse of land for sale at Ofada, an Ogun State suburb. SFU's spokesperson Ngozi Isintume-Agu, said: "The military personnel, having indicated interest, paid N7.3 million to the suspects with the expectation that the land would be theirs. They suspected foul-play when they requested the title document but were presented with forged survey plan. "When the suspects were arrested and investigation conducted, it was revealed that Abidemi, a graduate of Yaba College of Technology and the Managing Director of Ampris Global Resources, registered his company in 2009 to sell and develop estates. He had an agreement with a family to purchase 200 acres of land, which he started paying for by instalments. He confessed to obtaining the said sum

By Jude Isiguzo, Police Affairs Correspondant

from the complainants, but said he had no intention to defraud them since he had allocated some plots to some buyers. He confessed that he had not processed the Certificate of Occupancy with the Ogun State Land Registry, but said he had sent an application to that effect. He, however, promised to refund all the complainants' money". Kehinde, a graduate of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, was a staff in Ampris Global Resources, who allegedly marketed the property to the complainants. She started with the company as a Property Consultant and rose to the post of Business Development Manager. She allegedly provided them with the company's account details where they paid in their money for subscription. She equally collected some cash from the buyers. Kehinde allegedly confessed to the crime, but said she did not intend to defraud the complainants. Ogunsakin advised prospective land owners to ascertain its genuineness before investing their money as there are so many fraudsters parading themselves as genuine land dealers. Isintume-Agu told The Nation that investigation was on-going, adding and that the suspects would soon be charged to court.

•Border communities groan over collapsed bridge

communities to assume ownership of the projects for the contractors handling them to deliver qualitative jobs. He said he had discussed with the state governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, on the Omuo-Isinbode-Ode-Agbado Road, adding that the government had awarded the contract for the project, which he assured, would be delivered soon. Oba Adebayo lauded Faparusi over the projects, urging him to rescue the town from its perpetual land dispute with the people of Supare-Akoko in Ondo State.

• Bello

as the state is committed towards ensuring that canals and channels are always clean, Lagosians should desist from dumping waste into canals in order to attain a flood-free Lagos. Human and vehicular movement, he said, would be restricted between 7:00am and 10:00am as usual, while commercial bus operators and interstate transport operators are warned to keep their vehicles off Lagos roads, to avoid prosecution in line with the state Sanitation Laws.

Security awareness conference for kids

CONFERENCE that will focus on the general trends of crime in the country will hold on the Children's Day at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. The parley, which will also discuss social media, cyber crimes, psychology of crime, impacts of crime on its victims and survival tips for young people, is being organised by Crime Fighters, producers of a television crime programme. The executive producer of the television programme, Aisha Agberebi, said: "The overriding goal is to educated our children on security and crime and prevent them from being brainwashed into criminal activities,"

By Medinat Kanabe

she said. The conference with the theme: “Security awareness among children,” will have the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Umar Manko; Special Agent, Embassy of the United States of America in Nigeria, Mr Kerry Brooks; Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Omololu Soyombo; an expert in Victimology, Mrs Gloria Egbuji, and a representative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr David Adeboye, as speakers and lecturers.

•Council chair promises intervention

ing the visit

OW that the rainy season is here, the Lagos State Government has dedicated subsequent state-wide environmental sanitation exercises, more to cleaning silted drains and canals across the state, among tackling other environmental problems. Commissioner for the Environment, Mr Tunji Bello, has implored residents to troop out on Saturday to clean drains and canals around their homes to combat flooding. "This has become necessary in view of meteorologists' forecast that the state would experience heavy rains and severe thunderstorm. Lagos is a Coastal City with high water table content and flood-prone. Whenever it rains, we must be prepared to reduce the incidence of flooding in the state," he said. He warned residents who still patronise cart pushers to desist from the illegal act, but rather, dispose of their waste through LAWMA/PSP operators. Bello, however, said that as much

Hoodlums take over hospital

By Seun Akioye

BOUT five border communities in Ado-Odo Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State have remained in anguish, no thanks to incessant flooding since the bridge linking the communities with Lagos State caved in three months ago. The communities - Ilupewo, Ilo-Ifako, Akeja, Anuoluwapo, Iyanru and Osenatu-Ilo - have been battling massive flooding, which has since destroyed properties worth millions of naira. "Whenever it rains, we all run away because nobody can stay here because of the flood water. It takes only one hour of heavy rain to render us homeless. In all the houses here, nobody has furni-

Lagos modifies sanitation exercise

• The bridge ... in the week

ture anymore because flood has destroyed them all. We all use plastic chairs in our homes now. Even some people don't have beds anymore; we are living in pains here," a resident, Emmanuel Amoje, told The Nation yesterday. Before the bridge collapsed, it was learnt that flood had been a recurring decimal in the area, which links Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway to IdiIroko Road and Ota. However, when the bridge collapsed allegedly because of the dredging being done by Ogun State government, the Living Faith Church aka Winners Chapel moved in and constructed a plank bridge to alleviate the residents' suffering. While that brought a respite, however, the bridge continued to witness frequent breakdown owing to constant use by residents. When The Nation visited the area, local boys were seen collecting toll fee from vehicles using the plank bridge. The fee, it was learnt, was used to repair the failed sections of the bridge. One of the 'toll collectors,' Muri Oloyede, said: "We are not just collecting money from motorists for our personal use; we need the money to fix this bridge since the government has abandoned us. Several planks on the bridge have to be replaced frequently or the bridge will finally give way. We use the money to buy planks and fix the bridge. In one week, four planks can break;

hence, we have to do constant maintenance." The community also faces threats from refuse dumped along the Lagos -Abeokuta Expressway which usually ends up under the bridge. "Whenever it rains, all the bottles used on the Expressway and the toll gate area end up here. This is their final destination; they prevent free flow of water and increase flood. What we do is to manually pack the bottles to allow for free flow of water and reduce the flood," Oloyede said. Deputy Chairman of the Ilupewo Community Development Association (CDA), Segun Tinker, said the dredging being done by a company in the area was causing untold hardship in the communities, saying: "The canal done last December was a shoddy job. The water from Ahmadiyya to Sango is directed into this canal, which was built without slabs. When it rains, the soil is washed away and the community suffers." Tinker said both Lagos and Ogun state must jointly resolve the problem. The chairman, Ado-Odo Ota Local Government, Rotimi Rahmon, however, told The Nation: "I have not been notified, and there is no way I can act on what I don't have prior information on. Now that you have called my attention to it, I will detail my engineer to immediately go and assess the situation to know what to do about it."

ESIDENTS of Agbelekale community in Agbado-OkeOdo Local Council Development Area of Lagos State are angry over the worsening condition of the maternal centre in their domain. The chairman, Ise-Oluwa Community Development Association (ICDA), Revd Samuel Owoseni, who spoke for them, said the hospital was built a few years ago, as part of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) project of the federal government. "The hospital was an MDG project initiated by the federal government and was handed over to the council for management. Sadly, it has since not been commissioned for use. Now, hoodlums have taken over the premises of the hospital and vandalized its multimillion naira facilities. Another worried resident, Mrs Olaolu Ishola, told The Nation: "The community is not benefiting from the continued abandonment of the hospital because it has become a haven

• The hospital ... last week

By Kunle Akinrinade

for criminals. As you can see for yourself, the lightings, fans, doors and other facilities have been destroyed by miscreants who now sleep in the hospital. We have approached the authorities of the Agbado-OkeOdo Council and the Lagos State Government to intervene, but we are still waiting on them." However, the chairman, Agbado/ Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area, Hon. Augustine Arogundade, explained that the state government was yet to properly hand over the hospital to the council. "The hospital is located at Olota and it has not been handed over to my council area. We are also aware that some hoodlums are using the hospital as their haven and we have duly informed the state government about the development. As I speak, the Lagos State Government is already making effort to ensure a proper hand-over of the hospital to us."

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS

•Dickson (third right), Chairman, Southsouth Monarchs Forum, King Edmund Daukoru (middle), Alhaji Aliyu Danesi (second left) and other members of the Forum at the Government House, Yenagoa...yesterday.

Be cautious, Dickson advises

AYELSA State Governor Seriake Dickson has urged leaders across the country, especially those in the Southsouth to mind their utterances in order not to heat up the polity. Dickson spoke when the Southsouth Monarchs Forum visited him at the Government House, Yenagoa. The governor said the call became imperative because of the challenges facing the country and the need to maintain a peaceful and stable political climate ahead of 2015. Dickson enjoined leaders to use persuasion, consensus building and engagement so as to contribute significantly to nation-building as well as promote harmonious coexistence. “Let me use this opportunity to caution some of our brothers and even leaders who appear to be using the language of war instead of the language of politics and persuasion, which is critical to us going forward.”

15 petitions at Edo Tribunal From Osagie Otabor, Benin

IFTEEN petitions have been filed at the Edo State Local Government Election Petitions Tribunal. They were filed by councillors and chairmanship candidates from six local governments. The petitioners are challenging the outcome of the April 20 local government elections, which was won by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). The Tribunal Secretary, Obasuyi Kingsley, said efforts were made to serve notices on the defendants named in the suits.

NDDC to terminate contracts in Edo From Osagie Otabor, Benin

HE Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has issued a stop work order to two contractors handling projects in Edo State. It said the contractors were found to be working without recourse to job specifications and standard. The state commissioner, Henry Okhuarobo, said this when he appeared before the House of Assembly, which summoned him over abandoned projects in the state. Okhuarobo told the lawmakers that he has urged the Commission to terminate both contracts and warned other contractors to speed up work. “We are not going to hide any contractor who is not ready to comply with the standard that is set in the state. “We will fish them out; we have three cases now. The contractor refused to obey simple instructions and we have issued a stop order. The Commission terminated the contract because we have seen that the contractor will let us down.”

Edo partners Fed Govt in education

HE Edo State Government has partnered the Federal Government to integrate out-ofschool children into the Universal Basic Education Programme. Secretary to the State Government Prof. Julius Ihonvbere said this when the committee on integration visited him at the Government House. Ihonvbere said synergy in policies and programme devoid of politics is the best way to fast track growth and development.

From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

The SSG said Governor Adams Oshiomhole has placed emphasis on the revival of public school system in the state. The leader of the committee, Prof. Emeka Ezeonu, said the visit is to secure the parcel of land for the Federal Government to build a school in the state. Ezeonu said 11 states in the Southern part of the country will benefit from the initiative.

MEND suspends Operation Barbarossa

HE Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) yesterday suspended its “Operation Barbarossa”, which would have commenced on May 31. It called for the release of one of its leaders, Henry Okah, who is serving a 24year jail term in a South African prison and others in detention over the October 1, 2010 twin car bomb blast

•Calls for Okah’s release From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

at the Eagle Square, Abuja. In an online statement by its spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, MEND stated that the group heeded the pleas of well-meaning Nigerians. MEND said: “Despite several provocative and careless

utterances by so-called Southsouth elders, led by Chief Edwin K. Clark, testing our resolve to carry out our planned attacks on mosques and other related agencies of religious intolerance. “The intervention of wellmeaning Nigerians, religious bodies and the Fed-

eral Government’s show of sincerity, with the order to release from detention women, children, relatives and suspected Boko Haram members, giving room for genuine dialogue, have been taken into serious consideration. “We have also heeded the appeal from Henry Okah and Kingsley Kuku, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs.”

ACN: Ahmed lied on achievements

HE Kwara State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration in the state of reeling outright false achievements to the people. In a statement by the ViceChairman of ACN Local Government chapters, Chief Ayanda Fajenyo, the party noted that “the once respected office of the governor has been brought to its knees with the half-truth and outright falsehood emanating from the desk of the number one citizen of the state”. The statement added: “This government has engaged propaganda instead of making good use of Public Relations in selling itself, since it laboured at all times for acceptability and credibility.” But the government dismissed the allegation as unscientific. In a telephone chat with our correspondent, the Chief Press Secretary to the

•Critics should visit our project sites, says govt From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

governor, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba said those making the claims “are out to satisfy the interest of their paymasters”. Oba said: “It is no use for somebody to sit down in a corner and run down what government has done. It behooves that person to visit our project sites to see if they are real or not. “The government says it is rehabilitating five general hospitals in Ilorin, OmuAran, Offa, Kaiama and Share. It is now left for those making the false accusation to go there and verify.” The ACN faulted the government’s claim of making giant strides in the development of the state. It said: “The government was economical with the truth when it said over 800

kilometres of rural, urban and federal roads have been rehabilitated by the state government. As for the rural roads, we dare the governor to name them; then, where are the federal roads? It is common knowledge that the Ilorin-Ajasepo Road has been consistently maintained by the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA). Or, the Offa end of the road, which has been abandoned for years for only PDP knows reasons.” The governor, according to the ACN, has not done anything unusual for the general hospitals to warrant the wide publicity it gave to the rehabilitation exercise. It said: “The general hospitals, currently being given facelift, have been built several years back. Even

with the facelift, they remain mere rest rooms. The report in the National Pilot of May 20-22, a local paper owned by former Governor Bukola Saraki, said the Offa General Hospital has fewer than five doctors while it serves as a referral for Omun-Aran, Oro and other communities. This sufficently vindicates us. The caption is clear on page 24: ‘Offa General Hospital lacks doctors, says CMD’. “The story reads: ‘He (Dr. Abdulsalam Mohammed, Chief Medical Director) said the hospital would require more than 15 doctors to function effectively as against four currently on ground. We attend to about 100 patients in a day; this hospital is a major referral centre. We have patients from places as far as Omun-Aran and Oro. It will not make any meaning if we have this edifice and we don’t have medical personnel to attend to patients only four doctors on ground’.”

JTF arrests nine minors for ‘cultism’ in Delta

HE Joint Task Force (Operation Pulo Shield) yesterday paraded nine minors suspected to be members of four cult groups. Commanding Officer, Koko Barracks, Lt-Col Frank Etim described the quartet as informants collaborating with kidnappers, robbers and assassins in Sapele Town, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State. The minors, according to Etim, are aged between 10 and 16 years. He said they confessed to being initiated into cult

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba and Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

groups –“Eye”, “Blue Sparrow”, “Cage Bird” and “Dan Sailor”, by their seniors. Lt-Col Etim said the minors swore never to divulge the names and addresses of their leaders to security officials. He urged parents to watch their wards in order not to allow other people influence them negatively, warning that secret cult members and kidnappers will henceforth not have any hiding place in

the area. Lt Col Etim said the minors confessed to being initiated with a red liquid drink after being severely beaten with canes for hours. They also confessed to marks of identification marks on their backs and upper alms, as mark of initiation. The minors said their duties were to act as spies at various locations for their leaders, and deliver reports to aid kidnapping, robbery and assassination. The suspects listed the seniority of the groups in de-

scending order as Eye (most senior) , Blue Sparrow, Cage Bird, and Dan Sailor. Lt-Col Etim said: “On May 13, our personnel at Sapele arrested nine members of the Cage Bird, Blue Sparrow, and Dansailor cult groups during their activities in a remote area of Sapele and Elume communities in Sapele LGA of Delta State. “The suspects all of whom are minors have all confessed to the crime. “This crime involving minors reinforces the need for parents to watch over their wards in order not to allow other persons influence them negatively.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS Land certificate verification begins From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

HE Abia State Government has begun the verification and authentication of the Certificates of Occupancy of all classes of developers in the state. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical and Urban Planning and Renewal, Chimdi Oluoha, said this yesterday at a stakeholders’ forum in Aba. Oluoha said the project started on May 13 and would cover Umuahia and Aba. He said the exercise would correct various distortions in land development, especially in the urban areas, to recover lost revenue and in special cases recommend revocations. Oluoha said the exercise was backed up by the House of Assembly Resolution 112.

TCN demolishes structures From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

•Chime (second left), Abubakar (middle) cutting the tape during the inauguration ... yesterday. With them are Commissioner of Police Mohammed Adamu (second left), Tambari Muhammad (left) and Aliyu Musa (right).

Seven Kwara CP murder suspects held

EVEN people suspected to have taken part in the killing of former Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Chinwike Asadu, have been arrested. The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, broke the news yesterday in Enugu during his one day working visit. He said the suspects, who were arrested with the arms and ammunition allegedly used in the murder, have been arraigned in court. “I know we have a nagging issue that is the killing of our commissioner of police, we have arrested seven of those who allegedly took part in his killing. “When I came for a condolence visit, I promised that we will do everything possible to get the killers. “I’m glad to tell Nigerians that seven suspects have been arrested and arraigned in court.” Abubakar said the police were still searching for other suspects. The IG said the seven sus-

•IG inaugurates 100 vehicles, police hospital From Chris Oji, Enugu and Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

pects also confessed that they ‘murdered’ other people. On the policemen, who were murdered in Nasarawa State, Abubakar said they were still investigating. The IG named Enugu as the state with the lowest crime rate. He said this fact was buttressed by statistics and empirical evidence. Abubakar spoke at the inauguration of 100 vehicles donated to the police by the Enugu State Government. The IG said this was as a result of the support by the administration of Governor Sullivan Chime. He said: “Today, I can confirm, as the Inspector-General of Police, that Enugu State has the lowest crime rate in Nigeria. “I can also confirm that Enugu is one of the safest places in Nigeria.

“This is the result of the wonderful partnership between the government, the police and other security agencies. “I commend you (Chime) for this gesture. This is a shining example for your colleagues to emulate. “This is a practical demonstration that you love and care for your people.” The IG said the latest donation was unprecedented in the sense that it included both patrol vans and saloon cars. He noted that the provision of streetlights on major roads would assist the police. Chime said the vehicles were provided in partnership with local governments and are fully equipped with modern communication gadgets. The governor added that the saloon cars would be used within the metropolis while the vans are to cover intergovernment routes and the boundaries. Abubakar also commis-

Fake Army Captain arrested in Imo

TWENTY SEVEN YEAR-OLD man was yesterday paraded by the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Brig-Gen M.A Akali, for claiming to be an Army captain. Ejike Anyaibe, a bus driver from Ikeduru Local Government of Imo State, was said to have posed as an army captain and collected money from his victims to assist them in the ongoing army recruitment. He was alleged to have assured his victims of automatic employment. According to the com-

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

mander, the suspect met his waterloo after he collected an unspecified amount of money from one of his victims, Ede Silas, who he escorted to the local government secretariat to collect some documents, dressed in full military outfit. “The suspect took advantage of the ongoing recruitment and approached unsuspecting citizens,” he stated. The suspect, who was paraded in his fake camouflage, said it was his first time of wearing the kit out-

side his village. “I bought it in the market in Owerri but I never wore it outside my village. “I sat in front when we were stopped at an Army checkpoint and I was asked to identify myself but I told the officer that I am not an army officer and they started to beat me and brought me here.” But Silas said the suspect came to his village in Ohaji/ Egbema Local Government dressed as a soldier and announced that anyone seeking to join the Army should see him and pay to get recruited.

Exco dissolution: Imo commissioners jittery

MO State Commissioners are jittery following the reported plan by Governor Rochas Okorocha to dissolve the Executive Council. Some commissioners are said to be lobbying to retain their portfolio. The Nation gathered that the governor’s plan to reconstitute the council was not unconnected to his resolve to join the All Progressive Congress (APC). This is to accommodate other members of the merging parties in the Exco. Also Okorocha was said to

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

be uncomfortable with the performances of some of the commissioners, who could not render a comprehensive scorecard during a public forum to mark the second anniversary of his administration. According to a source, the planned dissolution was not political but a measure to bring in fresh hands and reinvigorate the governor’s rescue agenda. The source told our reporter that the dissolution will be announced soon.

“Most of the commissioners have relocated to the Government House to lobby their way back. “But the governor is one man who cannot be swayed by sentiments; those who performed will retain their position or get more sensitive roles.” But the Commissioner for Information, Chinedu Offor, said it was not true. Also the Senior Adviser to the Governor on Media, Ebere Uzoukwa, said he was not aware of any plan to dissolve the council.

sioned the MD Abubakar Police Medical Centre built by the Police Community Relations Commission (PCRC) Central Police Station, Onitsha, Anambra State. “I am very happy to be here today to commission this edifice, not just because the health centre was named after me. “I could have sent a representative but because I know what it means to provide medical care for the Force. “For a policeman to work effectively, he needs both physical and mental fitness,” he said.

HE Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has begun the demolition of all illegal structures constructed on right of way in Abia State. The firm has demolished structures erected on power transmission right of way on the 60-km Ohafia–Arochukwu 132 KVA Overhead Transmission Line (OHTL). Speaking during the demolition, a line engineer, Kefas Baduku, said the exercise was in continuation of the demolition of structures within the Southeast of which owners had been duly compensated. Baduku said apart from the demolition, the exercise also involved the pulling down of economic trees and the widening (15 metres on both sides) of the right of way from Ohafia power sub-station to Arochukwu power sub-station.

‘Stop using NANS’ name’ From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

HE National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) yesterday decried the use of its name by the management of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, to cause problems. This, it said, was targeted at obstructing the appointment of a governing council for the institution. In a statement from the NANS National Secretariat, signed by Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee, Chidi Obasi Michael, NANS urged Nigerians to note that the association does not delve into governing council affairs cum appointments. The statement reads: “We at NANS want to use this medium to distance ourselves from the publication. We also advise the management of the institution to desist forthwith from using NANS as smokescreen to achieve its misplaced priority.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS

ACF calls for relief for released Boko Haram suspects T HE pan North’s socio-political organisation, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), has urged the Federal Government to give relief materials to suspected Boko Haram members and their families who President Goodluck Jonathan ordered to be released on Tuesday. In a communiqué at the end of the joint meeting of its Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive Council (NEC) in Kaduna, the forum expressed concerns over the current military operation against Boko Haram in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. The forum said it will continue to monitor closely developments on the military operation.

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

The communiqué, which was read by the forum’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Fati Ibrahim, said ACF “welcomes the decision to release people being held in detention on suspicion of belonging to Boko Haram or related crimes. It is our hope that the Federal Government follows (it) through with necessary relief materials to those affected”. The forum expressed reservation about the military campaign against the insurgents, adding that experiences had shown that there is the possibil-

ity of the military taking heavyhanded actions that would escalate the insecurity rather than solve the problem in the conflict areas. The communiqué reads: “The Board of Trustees and the National Executive Council of the Arewa Consultative Forum met in a joint session this afternoon (Wednesday, May 22) at the Forum’s headquarters in Kaduna. “The meeting, called to review progress on the reorganisation of its state chapters, also deliberated on recent developments in the country. At the end of the deliberations, the meet-

ing resolved to issue the following Communiqué: •“The ACF is keenly concerned with and continues to monitor closely developments on the ongoing military operations directed against Boko Haram insurgency in parts of northern states. •“The forum had expressed reservations about the wisdom of an all-out military campaign as the only strategy for tackling the problem and had, accordingly, welcomed the acceptance by the Federal Government to explore the other options of dialogue and conciliation...”

Nasarawa, Canada to tackle waste management From Johnny Danjuma, Lokoja

ASARAWA State Governor Umaru Tanko AlMakura has said the state is ready to partner the Canadian government to revamp the education sector and waste management, which he described as a big business. The governor spoke yesterday at the Government House when he hosted the Canadian High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr. Chris Cooter. Al-Makura said the solid waste being generated in Karu, a boundary town with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja, was too big to be managed alone by the state government. The governor urged the high commissioner to also invest in other viable areas in the state. He said vocational training, as a priority area of the ruling Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) administration in the state, would reduce youth restiveness, if it is built into the formal education curriculum.

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano & Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

HE Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, yesterday urged the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North to offer wise advice to the Federal Government on the best ways to end the Boko Haram insurgency. The Kano monarch regretted that sponsors and collaborators of the sect could be known individuals operating within and outside the country. According to him, only prayers, God’s intervention as well as concerted efforts by the government and Nigerians can end the violence and spate of insecurity in the land. Bayero, who received members of the committee in his palace, decried what he called government’s lackadaisical attitude over reports and recommendations of similar committees. The monarch hoped the Federal Government would take the prevailing insecurity seriously and implement the committee’s recommendations. Committee Chairman, Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), told the Emir that his team has been consulting stakeholders to learn from their wealth of experiences. He said: “We are in your palace to interact with you and to take ideas from you. We want to understand it from your own perspective. We need your prayers and words of wisdom because the society holds you in high esteem.” Also, the founder of One Love Family, Sat Guru Maharaj Ji, has said the violent Islamic sect, Boko Haram, is a creation of northern oligarchy. Maharaj Ji said some notable northern leaders resorted to sponsoring the sect, having lost power to the South, especially in the 2011 general elections. The religious sect leader alleged that Boko Haram sponsors planned to make the country ungovernable for President Goodluck Jonathan. He said Boko Haram members lack effective education, adding that this is why they have resorted to killing innocent people. Maharaj Ji spoke in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, when he visited the secretariat of the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Iyaganku. He said the education in the North needs to be strengthened, adding: “Why must you take the law into your hands?”

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

T •Al-Makura (left) presenting a souvenir to Cooter at the Government House in Lafia...yesterday

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

the matter. The party recalled that its candidates in the two wards were leading in the number of votes recorded in the September 29, 2012 by-election. It alleged that the electoral body declared that the election was inconclusive because of the results of two polling units in the two wards. CPC said this was an attempt to subvert the imminent victory of its councillorship candidates. Shuaibu said the party went to court, challenging NSIEC’s decision and that the

court directed another by-election. He said: “For more than eight months, neither the winner nor the new date for another election in the polling units has been announced.” The party said it approached the Appellate Division of the High Court of Niger State and that a Form 48 was issued to Abubakar on November 3, last year, ordering him to conduct the by-election. The notice stated that “unless you obey the Order of the Court forthwith, as contained in the Judgment of this Honourable Court, commanding you to conduct a councillorship

by-election in Limawa ‘A’ Ward, you will be guilty of contempt of court and will be liable to be committed to prison”. The same Order was also made for Nasarawa ‘B’ Ward. Six months after the service of the notice, the by-election is yet to be conducted. But NSIEC Chairman Mohammed Danlami Abubakar said lack of funds hindered the conduct of by-election in the two wards. He said: “Äs soon as approval for the release of the fund was made by the state government, the by-election would be conducted, as directed.”

Kwankwaso destroys N350m expired drugs ANO State Governor Musa Kwankwaso has destroyed 18 truckloads of assorted expired and adulterated drugs worth N350 million. After setting fire to the consignment at Mariri, in the outskirts of Kano, the governor told reporters that the action was a pointer to his administration’s resolve to end the sale and consumption of harmful drugs and medical consuma-

•Sect is creation of North’s oligarchy, says Maharaj Ji

UNIJOS hosts conference on ‘AU at 50’ today

Niger CPC seeks jail for electoral chief HE Niger State Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) has called for the imprisonment of Alhaji Mohammed Danlami Abubakar, the Chairman of the State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC), for allegedly disobeying court order. In a statement in Minna, the state capital, by the state Chairman of the party, Malam Umar Shuaibu, the CPC alleged that the NSIEC Chairman and the electoral body failed to conduct by-election into two wards in Chanchaga Local Government Area, despite several court orders on

Bayero to Boko Haram panel: advise govt wisely

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

bles. He said the government would not succumb to pressure to overturn its decision to close the obnoxious Kano drug market. According to him, the government resolved not to jeopardise anybody’s business but to ensure that the collective interest of the people is protect-

ed.

The government, he said, will not allow few individuals selling bad drugs and related items to make money at the expense of the people’s health and well-being. Kwankwaso noted that no responsible government would allow its citizens to patronise inferior or contaminated medicines, provisions and related products.

•Kwankwaso

THE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olubgenga Ashiru, will today open a national conference on 50 years of the African Union (AU) in Jos, the Plateau State capital. The conference is organised by Political Science Department of the University of Jos (UNIJOS). A programme for the event, which our correspondent obtained from the Chairman of the Publicity Committee of the conference, Mr Major Adeyi, indicated that Ashiru and AU Executive Secretary are the special guests of honour at the event. Adeyi said the conference will hold at the Multiple-Purpose Auditorium of UNIJOS main campus. Participants and guests are expected to have arrived in the tin city since yesterday. The conference is an assembly of distinguished scholars drawn from various universities in Nigeria. They will discuss various issues on African Union in its 50 years of existence. The theme of the conference is: Assessing Progress, Challenges and Opportunities.

Kogi Assembly urges police to tackle robbery From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

HE Kogi State House of Assembly has urged the state police command to save the residents from incessant robbery attacks, especially on the Lokoja-Okene Road, to secure lives and property of the people. In an adopted motion, Oluyori Afolabi (ANPP-Ijumu) said Kogi residents now go to bed with one eye open for the fear of attacks by hoodlums. Afolabi noted that incessant robbery attacks on innocent commuters and unsuspecting road users near Irepeni village had become alarming. He told the House that it has become business as usual for robbers to attack people at the particular spot, adding that many unsuspecting travellers have been robbed in last few months. The lawmakers recalled that on Tuesday morning, some armed robbers operated at the spot while a police vehicle, with registration number PF 11504, belonging to Kogi State Police Command, was allegedly parked about 500 metres from the robbery scene. Two police officers standing by the vehicle, he said, had claimed that they were not aware of the robbery. Afolabi added that several people were attacked in the same place on Monday. He said: “The wife of a former Commissioner for Information in the state, Mrs Yemisi Ogunmola, was recently robbed of valuables at the same spot. The wife of a former member of the House Assembly, Mrs Ganiyu Salawudeen, Kogi State Polytechnic students and several other unsuspecting travellers have also been robbed on the Lokoja-Okene Road.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

NEWS 10m children out of school, says UBEC From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

THE Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has said over 10 million school-age children in Nigeria are not in school. UBEC’s Acting Executive Secretary, Prof. Charles Onocha, spoke in Asaba, the Delta State capital, at the beginning of the “Needs Assessment Survey for Integration of Out-of-School Children from the South-South and Southeast Geo-Political Zones”. He said: “This class of out-of-school children comprises the almajiri, largely in the North; the out-of-school girl-child, mostly in the North and some southern states; as well as the boy-child school drop-outs in the South-South and Southeast zones.” Onocha said the assessment brought to the fore the determination of the UBEC to address the outof-school phenomenon by ensuring inclusiveness in basic education delivery and guaranteeing that every school-age child gets unhindered access to basic education. According to him, the Federal Government realised the enormous impact of out-of-school syndrome on the nation’s youthful population and has redoubled its efforts toward reversing the trend.

Dangote, Omoigui-Okauru, Orji get Independent award

NDEPENDENT Newspapers Limited (INL), publishers of Daily Independent, Saturday Independent and Sunday Independent newspapers, will on Saturday hold its Men of the Year 2012 Investiture. Three distinguished Nigerians are to be honoured with INL awards. They are Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President/Chief Executive, Dangote Group; Mrs. Ifueko OmoiguiOkauru, Managing Partner, Compliance Professionals Plc and immediate past Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and Abia State Governor Theodore Orji. According to INL’s Managing Editor, Mr Akpandem James, the Chairman of National Human Rights Commission, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, is the Guest Speaker. He will speak on Amnesty, Human Rights and The Rest of Us. James said the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, a Distinguished Professor of the University of Lagos, Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, will preside at the event, adding that top echelon of the public service, political chieftains, captains of industries, and importantly, friends, associates and well wishers of the honourees will attend.

Thousands flee homes to Niger Republic, Cameroun, Chad T ENS of thousands of residents of Borno State have fled their homes thousands of them into neighbouring Niger and Cameroon - following airstrikes since May 15. The attacks on Boko Haram camps in northern parts of Borno close to the borders with Chad, Niger and Cameroon followed the May 14 declaration of a state of emergency by President Goodluck Jonathan in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. Musa Karimbe fled his village of Bulabute near Marte, Boko Haram’s major stronghold in the area, on May 17 to Kusiri, 100km inside Cameroon where he is staying with a friend. “We are afraid of a repeat of Baga attacks on our homes,” Karimbe said, referring to fighting on April 16 and 17 between troops from the Chad-Niger-Nige-

ria Joint Multi-National Task Force and Boko Haram members in which 187 residents from Baga town on the shores of Lake Chad were reported killed, and 2,128 homes believed to have been burnt, according to Human Rights Watch. People from villages around Abadam District, including Malamfatori, fled to Bosso in Niger’s Diffa Region. Others have taken refuge in the Cameroonian towns of Fotokol, Amchide, Darak and Kusiri, according to interviews with displaced Nigerians. Officials claim that 2,000 people have fled across borders, though several of the displaced said they thought the number was higher. The number of casualties

from the fighting is not yet clear, though Defence spokesman Brig.-Gen. Chris Olukolade said last week there had been casualties and that 100 sect members had been arrested. An official of the Nigerian Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Abuja said they had not yet been able to establish contact with their teams to find out the details of the humanitarian situation, because telephone networks in Borno and Yobe states have been shut down since May 16. “The areas where military operations are ongoing are not accessible,” he said. Residents of Gamboru Ngala in Borno State said military forces screened them

thoroughly before allowing them to cross the border; others passed through the network of unofficial trade routes that criss-cross the region. Before the military operation, Boko Haram has, since January, has taken control of Marte, Mobbar, Gubio, Guzamala, Abadam, Kukawa, Kala-Balge and Gamboru Ngala local government areas in northern Borno, chasing out local government officials, taking over control of government buildings and imposing Sharia law. The International Committee of the Red Cross said it was providing assistance to about 2,400 people who have fled violence and relocated to Niger Republic.

The ICRC said it was stationed in southeastern Niger to help the hundreds of families who left their homes in northern Nigeria. ICRC Regional Director Jean-Nicolas Marti said displaced families had enough emergency food supplies to last about a month. “These people, most of whom are originally from Niger but settled in Nigeria some time back, in some cases decades ago, are completely destitute,” he said in a statement. “Their situation is very precarious, and they urgently need help.” The United Nations urged Nigerian authorities to show restraint during the offensive. At least 200 people died and more than 2,000 homes were destroyed in a recent military raid seen as a response to a Boko Haram attack on area police.

Court restrains police from arresting Rivers Speaker, Chief of Staff From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

•Osun State Governor ‘s wife Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola (middle); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs Sikirat Bello and Fomwan Amirah, Alhaja Nofiu Kudirat Abeke when the governor’s wife visited FOMWAN Orphanage Home Osogbo...yesterday.

Boko Haram: Detained suspects to be released in phases, says Presidency

HE Presidency yesterday made clarifications on the release of persons detained in connection with the activities of the Boko Haram insurgents. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, in a statement, said the suspects would be released in phases. According to him, the first batch of suspects to be released will be women and children who were detained on suspicion of involvement or connection with insurgency. Okupe said the phased release of detainees was to encourage other insurgents who may wish to embrace the peace option to take advantage of it. “This will be followed by other phased releases where

cases will be treated on their individual merits by the Defence authorities and security agencies,” Okupe added. He said President Goodluck Jonathan’s directive on the detained suspects was as a result of the interim report by the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peace in northern Nigeria. The Committee, he said, recommended the measure as part of the government’s multifaceted strategy to solving the security challenges posed by the activities of the Boko Haram sect. “This directive by Mr President further proves that the Federal Government has not foreclosed dialogue as a viable option in its bid to put an end to insurgency and terrorist activities in the northern

part of the country. “It is expected that this phased release of detainees will encourage those who wish to embrace the peace option to come out and take advantage of the dialogue and peace option provided by the Committee put in place by government. “ It has become necessary to make further clarifications on the directive for the release of some people held in connection with activities of the Boko Haram sect, in view of misrepresentations in some sections of the media,” the statement added Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN) rejected the release of Boko Haram suspects from detention without trial, saying it is like giving them the licence to commit more

suicide bombings. Benue State CAN chairman Bishop Yiman Orkwar, who spoke to reporters in Makurdi, appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to stop his directive that Boko Haram suspects be release from detention, saying such action would further escalate the security situation in the North. He spoke of the recent killings of farmers in Benue State by people he described as Jihadists. He praised President Jonthan for the declaration of the state of emergency in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa and called on the Benue State government to provide camps for the internally displaced persons and empower them to return to their homes to continue with their farming.

PORT HARCOURT High Court has issued an interim order restraining the Rivers State Commissioner of Police from arresting the Speaker, Otelemaba Dan Amachree and the Chief of Staff in the Government House, Tony Okocha. Justice Adolphus Enebeli gave the order following a motion ex parte brought by Amachree and Okocha. Amachree had raised the alarm over alleged plan to assassinate Governor Rotimi Amaechi. Also, Okocha had alleged of plan to burn down government properties. Justice Enebeli ordered the police chief to stay action on the investigation of the Speaker and the Chief of Staff pending the determination of the application before the court. Counsel to the Chief of Staff, Vincent Uchendu told the court that the police invitation is an attempt to violate the fundamental human rights of the Chief of Staff and the Speaker. Amachree’s counsel, Emenike Ebete expressed doubt on the ability of the police to be fair. The case was adjourned till June 3 for motion on notice.

Dana crash: AIB refuses to tender investigation report

HE Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) yesterday refused to tender to a Lagos State coroner, some documents relating to the investigation it conducted into the Dana Airline that crashed at Iju Ishaga, Lagos State on June 3, last year. About 153 persons on board the aircraft and others on the ground died in the crash. Speaking through its counsel, Mr. Babatunde Irukera, the

By Adebisi Onanuga

AIB said at the resumed sitting of the Coroner Court that its investigation of last year’s crash of an aircraft belonging to Dana Airline would be compromised if it produced any document relating to the illfated plane in court. Lagos State Government, through its counsel, Mr. Akinjide Bakare, had urged the court to compel AIB to produce

the documents in court. He said he needed them to cross-examine Dana Airline’s Director of Flight Operations, Captain Oscar Wilson, who continued with his testimony yesterday. The documents requested for by the state were the duty roster of the deceased pilots, who flew the plane, their typeratings and the technical log book of the crashed MD-83 plane.

Irukera admitted that the AIB took possession of the documents relating to the illfated plane immediately after the crash. He told the court that AIB’s refusal to release the documents was not out of respect for the court. Irukera said if his client is compelled to produce the documents, it would discourage international organisations from participating in investigating

future air crashes. “AIB is compelled by law, both local and international statutes, to make the documents relating to the air craft confidential and not to be taken to any court, and will not be used for liability. He adjourned the sitting of the Coroner Court till July 3 and 4 to enable the Lagos State Chief Medical Examiner, Prof. John Obafunwa, give evidence into the crash.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

FOREIGN NEWS Russia wants neutrality from Assad foes

USSIAN Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday it is crucial for Syrian opposition envoys to engage in peace talks without setting preconditions, apparently referring to demands for President Bashar al-Assad’s removal. Lavrov also reiterated that Iran must be invited to the conference that Russia and the United States are trying to organize to seek a resolution to the more than twoyear-old conflict that has killed at least 80,000 people. Days after U.N. SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon said in Russia that the conference should be held “as soon as possible” so that momentum is not lost, Lavrov said timing was far less important than ensuring there is a chance for success.

US Immigration bill passes Senate panel

SWEEPING immigration bill that would offer a chance of citizenship to millions living in the US illegally has taken a stride forward in Congress. A Senate panel voted 13-5 to back the measure, after a plan to allow people to sponsor same-sex partners for permanent legal status was withdrawn. The full Senate will now debate the proposal next month. The bill is widely seen as the biggest overhaul of US immigration policy in more than a quarter of a century. After Tuesday evening’s vote, immigration activists who had crowded into the Senate judiciary committee

room cheered. In a statement, US President Barack Obama congratulated the panel. He said the bill was “largely consistent with the principles of common sense reform I have proposed and meets the challenge of fixing our broken immigration system”. Mr Obama added he was “hopeful” the amendment process would “lead to further improvements”. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said he would not block the measure from coming to the floor for a full debate, but did not say how he planned to vote. Three Republicans joined all 10 Democrats on the committee in voting for the bill. The bill would allow

people living in US illegally to obtain “registered provisional immigrant status” Applicants must have arrived in US before 31 Dec 2011 and have maintained continuous physical presence. Those with felony conviction or more than two misdemeanours need not apply. Registered provisional immigrant status would cost $500, and be renewable after six years. After decade, individuals could seek green card and lawful permanent resident status. Individuals brought to the US as youths would be able to apply for green cards in five years.

Syria rebels call for reinforcements

EBELS fighting for control of the Syrian town of Qusair called for reinforcements yesterday to repel forces loyal to President Bashar alAssad in a civil war which is spreading violence through an already volatile region. Opposition fighters said air strikes and shelling rocked the small town on the Syrian-Lebanese border that has seen some of the fiercest fighting in months in the two-year-old war that has so far cost at least 80,000 lives. The fighting has drawn in fighters from Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement, the latest sign of outside involvement in the war and evidence, according to Britain, that Iran and its allies in the militant group are lending increasing support to Assad. After months of warnings from regional and international experts, violence is now spilling over Syria’s borders, with clashes between pro- and anti-Assad factions in the Lebanese city of Tripoli and exchanges of fire between Syrian and Israeli forces in the Golan Heights.

along the US-Mexican border, using additional agents and drones. The president of the powerful AFL-CIO union group, Rich Trumka, attacked the last-minute deal allowing an increase in the number of visas for hi-tech specialists as “anti-worker”. But he said organised labour would continue to support the larger bill. In the other chamber of Congress, the House of Representatives, immigration legislation is due to receive a hearing in the judiciary committee on Wednesday. US lawmakers’ last attempt at immigration reform was more recent - a bipartisan bill failed in the Senate in 2007. The latest push for reform follows Mr Obama’s announcement last June that the US would allow young undocumented workers who immigrated as children to apply for two-year, renewable visas. Republicans have increasingly embraced the idea of immigration reform after a large majority of Hispanic voters supported Mr Obama in last year’s election.

Mugabe signs Zimbabwe constitution, PM vows to wrest power

•Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olugbenga Ashiru, at the opening of the 23rd A.U. Executive Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Eethiopia ... yesterday

World Bank pledges $1b aid to Africa

HE World Bank pledged $1 billion yesterday to fund development in central Africa’s Great Lakes region in return for peace, but fresh fighting in eastern Congo underscored the challenges facing the area. World Bank President Jim Yong Kim unveiled the proposed aid for one of Africa’s most conflict-ridden regions on the first day of a trip with U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon to Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. The tour coincided with further clashes between Congo’s army and fighters from the M23 rebel group near the eastern city of Goma on the border with Rwanda, where at least 20 people have been killed this week. Artillery exchanges erupted for a third straight day on Wednesday, killing at least one child and injuring several other civilians as shells fell on a heavily populated neighborhood

of Goma and around nearby camps for war displaced civilians. Kim and Ban are due to travel to the city on Thursday. The U.N. secretary general told Reuters on Tuesday that the $1 billion to help finance health and education services, hydro-electric projects and cross-border trade was contingent on countries honoring a peace deal brokered by the United Nations. The aid package is part of efforts to link immediate security with lasting political and economic solutions, giving countries an incentive to stick with peace. “We believe this can be a major contributor to a lasting peace in the Great Lakes region,” Ban said in a statement on Wednesday. “This funding will help revitalize economic development, create jobs, and improve the lives of people who have suffered for far too long.”

Iran: Ahmadinejad denounces election body’s decision

RANIAN President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said yesterday that a decision by election overseers to disqualify his top aide from next month’s presidential race is an act of “oppression” and that he will take the case to the country’s supreme leader. His comments were posted on his website, president.ir, the day after the Guardian Council removed Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei from the final candidate list. Despite Ahmadinejad’s pledge to appeal, it is unlikely that the Guardian Council made its decision without the blessing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It allowed only eight candidates, most hardliners associated with the clerical establishment. Among those approved for the June ballot are Iran’s top nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili,

Approval came after committee members agreed to a Republican move to ease visa restrictions on hiring skilled workers from countries such as China and India. The Democratic chairman of the committee, Patrick Leahy, also withdrew an amendment that would have allowed people to sponsor foreign same-sex partners for permanent legal status. “I believe in my heart of hearts that what you’re doing is the right and just thing,” Democrat Senator Richard Durbin said. “But I believe this is the wrong moment, that this is the wrong bill.” At the centre of the legislation is a provision that would allow the estimated 11 million people living in the US illegally to obtain “registered provisional immigrant status”, six months after the bill’s enactment if certain conditions are met. That status is the beginning of a 13-year process that would one day allow immigrants to be eligible to apply for a green card. The bill also includes provisions to strengthen security

prominent lawmaker Gholam Ali Haddad Adel, former foreign minister Ali Akbar Velayati and Tehran mayor Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf all top Khamenei loyalists. Former chief of the Revolutionary Guards Mohsen Rezaei and a little known former minister, Mohammad Gharazi, have also been approved. Only two are considered pro-reform figures: Former top nuclear negotiator Hasan Rowhani and former first vice president Mohammad Reza Aref, but neither have yet gained any strong following among moderates and liberals after years of crackdowns by authorities. Most hope for an opposition revival had rested with former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, who was not ap-

proved by the Guardian Council after hardliner complaints. Rafsanjani had openly criticism the heavy-handed tactics used to crush protests in 2009 following the disputed re-election of Ahmadinejad. The ruling dealt a serious blow to Ahmadinejad’s hopes of having a loyalist succeed him. He can’t run in the June 14 ballot due to term limits under Iran’s constitution. “I believe the right of an oppressed man won’t be trampled at this level in a country where there is `velayat-efaqih,’” Ahmadinejad was quoted as saying, referring to Iran’s Islamic system of government in which a top cleric serves as supreme leader and the final authority on all matters of state. Ahmadinejad claims defer-

ence to Khamenei, although his perceived 2011 challenge to the supreme leader’s authority caused him to fall out with conservatives who formerly backed him and marked the start of the decline in his political fortunes. The president called Mashaei a “pious, rightful and competent man.” He said he would pursue the appeal “through the exalted leader until the last moment and hope the problem will be resolved,” he said. Ahmadinejad has strongly supported his protege. But Mashaei is disliked by hardliners because of the man’s alleged role in the bitter feud between Ahmadinejad and the ruling clerics. They have denounced him as part of a “deviant current” that seeks to undermine the country’s Islamic system - which made ballot approval highly unlikely.

IMBABWE President Robert Mugabe signed a new constitution into law yesterday, replacing a 33year-old document forged in the dying days of British colonial rule and paving the way for an election later this year. Approved overwhelmingly in a referendum in March, the constitution clips the powers of the president and imposes a two-term limit. However, it does not apply retroactively so the 89-year-old Mugabe technically could extend his three decades in office by another 10 years. A beaming Mugabe, flanked by Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, his main political rival, and Deputy President Joice Mujuru signed multiple copies of the charter at State House in the capital to cheers and applause from aides.

The constitution was rewritten under terms of a powersharing deal between Mugabe and Tsvangirai after elections in 2008 marred by violence. The five-year coalition government formed under the same agreement expires on June 29, and parliamentary and presidential elections should follow within 90 days of that date. However, many obstacles remain, not least finding the estimated $130 million needed to pay for the election and reaching agreement on outside monitors. Harare has turned down offers of United Nations or donor assistance and Mugabe accused some in the 15-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC), which has been mediating in the crisis, of trying to impose their will.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

SPORT EXTRA

Supersand Eagles floor Libya 8-4 N

I G E R I A ’ S Supersand Eagles lived up to their prematch billing by trouncing the Beach Soccer team of State of Libya 8-4 in their opening match of Group B

of the African Beach Soccer Championship in El Jadida, Morocco on Wednesday. Emeka Ogbonna was the star performer with a hattrick, while veteran Isiaka Olawale and Abu Azeez

weighed in with a brace each. New-boy Emmanuel Ewhoferhia scored one goal. Ranked number six in the world, the Nigerians began with a flourish, sweeping to a 4-0 lead in the first quar-

ter. The second quarter ended 6-2, before both teams scored two goals each in the last quarter. In the other match of the group, Cote d’Ivoire mauled Egypt 4-1 to join Nigeria at

the top of the table. In Group A, defending champions Senegal strolled past Madagascar 7-3. The Supersand Eagles will confront Egypt on Thursday before clashing with the

Ivoirians on Friday. The top two teams at the end of the tournament will qualify to represent Africa at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup taking place in Tahiti in September.

STANDING COMMITTEES

CAF appoints eight Nigerians

N •Enyeama in action

Enyeama misses final game of the season

FTER winning the Israeli championship with four rounds of matches remaining, Maccabi Tel Aviv gaffer Oscar Garcia decided to give a break to Nigeria custodian Vincent

Enyeama in the final game of the season which was played against Bnei Yehuda on Monday night. In Enyeama's absence, his replacement Tomer Chencinski conceded three goals in the Yel-

lows’ loss to Bnei Yehuda at the Bloomfield Stadium. Maccabi Tel Aviv ended their campaign with 80 points, 13 points ahead of closest challengers Maccabi Haifa. 30 - year - old Enyeama re-

corded 27 appearances for Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Ligat Ha'al. Barring any unforeseen circumstance, he is expected to return to Lille, his parent club next season.

My priority is Eagles recall - Haruna

YNAMO Kiev midfielder, Lukman Haruna, has called on Super Eagles players currently preparing for the FIFA Confederation Cup to see the opportunity as a privilege and give it their best.

By Innocent Amomoh Haruna, who had his last stint with the senior national team at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, said playing in a competition of this magnitude is a good way to show one’s worth

to the world. “Playing in a competition like the Confederations Cup is a big privilege for the invited players and I will advise them to take their chances, because there are far better players than them who were not invited. They

should make the country proud in Brazil.” On his desire to stage a comeback to the Eagles fold, Haruna said that that Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi knows what he is capable of doing on the field of play. Haruna is one of the few Nigerian players to have played in all stages of the national team, and was also instrumental to the Golden Eaglets’ Korea 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning feat. The 22-year-old believes that the way to return to the national team is to keep his form for his club side in the Ukraine top flight. "I’ve always wanted to play for Nigeria. I appreciate every support given to me by the country right from my U-17 days to this level. Even though there were ups and downs, I am happy with the level of progress I have made,” Haruna told NationSport. He continued: "The major priority for me now is a return to the Super Eagles. To tell you the truth, I don’t have any disappointments because I am still young and will be around for a long time to come. I always count myself lucky in the national team because I have tasted every stage, but I think I have not enjoyed myself in terms of laurels with the Super Eagles. “I’m happy because my form is improving with Dynamo Kiev and because I’ve achieved my goal of getting back into the first team. This is happening at a very good time in my career and I need to make the most of it now.”

O fewer than eight Nigerians have been appointed into the Standing Committees of the Africa Football Confederation (CAF) for the 2013/ 2015 soccer season. A statement on CAF’s website on Tuesday said the appointments were approved by the Executive Committee of the confederation during its meeting in Cairo between May 15 and May 16, following a newlyintroduced system of selection. According to the statement, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Aminu Maigari, was appointed into the Organising Committee for the Orange Africa Cup of Nations. The association’s 1st VicePresident, Mike Umeh was appointed into the Organ-

ising Committee for Interclub competitions. Another top Nigerian, Emeka Inyama and Chairman of Media and Publicity, was appointed into the Media Committee, while NFF’s Technical Committee Chairman, Christopher Green, was appointed into the Disciplinary Board. A former NFF President, Sani Lulu, will serve on the Organising Committee for the Africa Nations’ Championship. Amanze Uchegbulam, a former Vice-President, was appointed into the Appeals Board as Vice-President, while Mike Itemuagbor also made it into the Marketing and Television Committee. The Technical and Development Committee would have Yusuf Ahmed as one of its members.

Anambra orders illegal occupants out of stadium’s site

HE Anambra State Ministry of Youths and Sports has ordered illegal occupants of the site of the Awka Township Stadium to quit for construction work to begin. The Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Edozie Aroh, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Tuesday that the ministry planned to begin the work in June. Aroh said the ministry was compelled to use force as the occupants had not taken the initial quit notice seriously. He said the evacuation of debris on the site was already in progress as the government was committed to the full implementation of the project. ``We have asked them to leave the place so that we can commence work in earnest. The people collecting money from them should have informed them that the place belongs to the government. ``It is our property and we want to use it now. So, security men have been drafted there to ensure the safety of our workers at the site,’’ he said. Meanwhile, the Chairman

of Awka Scrap Dealers Association, who are the main occupants of the site, Uchenna Ogugunwosu, has appealed to the government to help them to secure a new place to carry on their business. Ogugunwosu said they were no fewer than 117 persons and had been at the site for the past 10 years, stressing that the two-day notice was too short for them. ``We just saw earth movers bringing down our shops while security men kept watch on them. We are not saying we will not vacate, but we appealing to the government to give us soft landing. ``We are not criminals, and we don’t have certificates. We are responsible men and women, who are helping ourselves with this business. They should provide us an alternative place. ``It is their land we know, but two days is not enough. As you can see, some people are taking their goods to their houses,” he lamented. NAN reports that earth work was ongoing at in the site, while the traders moved out their wares under the supervision of the security agencies.

•Edozie

www.thenationonlineng.net

THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2013

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

RIPPLES PROVE THAT OSHIOMHOLE BEGGED TO JOIN PDP or SHUT UP–Edo ACN

...Yes SPEAK NOW or be FOREVER SILENT

VOL.8, NO.2,494

COMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

T long last, President Jonathan has decided to take the bull by the horn. Last week, he declared a state of emergency in Yobe, Adamawa, and Bornu, the three states in north eastern Nigeria in which the insurgents have been most active in recent weeks. The declaration by the President of a state of emergency in those three states was prompted by the vicious and bloody Boko Haram attack on Baga in which over 200 people were reported killed. Fearing a possible backlash from the North President Jonathan had until now been reluctant to accept the advice of his security agencies that a bolder and more decisive military action was now needed. The president had to act swiftly and decisively. He was away in South Africa. He immediately cancelled his planned visit to Namibia and returned home. Finally, the President abandoned all pretences that the insurgents could be prevailed upon to lay down their arms by treating them with kid gloves. It was always clear that more determined and sustained military action against the insurgency was imperative and urgent. The fact of the matter is that since it first emerged in 2009 Boko Haram has developed into a sophisticated, better organised; wellarmed, and well financed insurgency that poses a grave threat to the security and future of this country. It has both external and internal links and support, and it seeks nothing less than the overthrow of the government and social order in this country. But its support in the country, including the North, is really limited. Whatever goodwill it once had has since been lost by its wanton and bloody attacks on innocent civilians. Nigeria is a multi-religious state that guarantees to its citizens freedom of worship. But the aim of Boko Haram is to Islamise Nigeria by force of arms. This is not acceptable and should be resisted firmly and squarely. It could lead to a religious war and the break up of the country. Until now, President Jonathan had been severely criticised for his tepid approach to the violent and dangerous insurgency. His critics say he should have acted promptly long before now by taking stronger military action against the insurgents. That criticism is justified. Now that he has acted by declaring a state of emergency in the Northeast, he deserves the nation’s full support. This should not be made a partisan affair. There is a consensus in the nation in favour of stronger military action against the insurgents. The measures taken by the President against the insurgents have the support of the entire country, including Northern leaders all of whom are sick and

TODAY IN THE NATION

‘The blood of the innocent has been shed too much on our land and we need to pray to God as a nation to forgive us and we need to cry in unison, God have mercy’ ‘

DAPO FAFOWORA

FROM THE SUMMIT dapo.fafowora@thenationonlineng.net

Boko Haram: Jonathan finally decides

•Dr Jonathan

tired of the Boko Haram carnage in Northern Nigeria. Many of them are targets of the insurgents and now live in fear. As I write this article the Northern Governors are reportedly planning a meeting this week to review the state of emergency declared in the three states in the North. If they seek the return of peace to the region, then they must all support the stronger military measures being introduced by the President. Equally, the National Assembly must pass the necessary enabling bill in support of the declaration of a state of emergency in the three Northern states. The state of emergency does not in any legal or constitutional sense affect the position or legitimacy of the governors. Their states have not been taken over by

the Federal Government. They remain governors and will continue to perform their functions as governors. State security was never their responsibility but that of the Federal Government. This is a constitutional anomaly that will need to be addressed in future by the creation of state police. The states should have some responsibility for their own security. But for now the Federal Government is fully in charge of security throughout the country. The only real limitation on the governors is the limited curfew imposed on the three states. The governors may not like this, but it is necessary for the restoration of public order and peace in their states. The people of the states need peace to pursue their normal daily activities. The insurgency has crippled economic activities in most parts of the North. It is the responsibility of the Federal Government to ensure that all the citizens of our country enjoy peace and security to pursue their legitimate economic activities. There are, of course, internal and external legitimate concerns about the manner in which the security forces carry out their military operations in the three states. Specifically, there is concern that the military operations against the insurgents should comply with the appropriate rules of engagement. This is absolutely necessary if the people of the three states concerned are not to be alienated. The military have to defend themselves. They should be well equipped for this. Far too many of them are being killed by the insurgents. The military must avoid the situation in which military

HARDBALL

JIDE OSUNTOKUN

operations to protect the people from the insurgents lead to heavy civilian casualties and their alienation. Even in the state of emergency human rights must continue to be fully respected by the military. The military need to win the hearts and minds of the citizens of the three states. Already, the US and other Western embassies in Nigeria have expressed some concerns about this. The military must not resort to a scorched earth military strategy leading to massive civilian casualties. The military objective is to destroy Boko Haram and not the people, the victims of Boko Haram attacks. Despite the dire situation and his stronger military action, President Jonathan must continue to seek peace and an end to the insurgency through dialogue and consultations. Boko Haram has spurned all peace efforts but the Federal Government should not abandon its efforts in this regard. The strategy should continue to be a combination of stick and carrots. Peace will not be achieved overnight. This is going to be a protracted struggle until Boko Haram is finally defeated. The insurgents must and should not prevail. If they do, then that could be the end of Nigeria. Almost certainly, the nation will break up as the other religious and ethnic groups will take up arms to defend themselves. Book Haram is the inevitable product of the long period of neglect of the people of the Northern region by their own leaders. It has been spurned by widespread ignorance, poverty, and religious fanaticism. The whole region needs a combination of a political and economic programme that should aim at eliminating past social and economic injustice. Military action alone, though necessary in present circumstances, will not solve the problem of the insurgency. Direct and tangible action should be taken by the Federal Government in concert with the Northern states governors and leaders to tackle the deep seated social and economic grievances more prevalent in the North. Mass education and better job opportunities will reduce whatever attractions Boko Haram may have for the people of the region. The fact of the matter is that the governments at various levels of the country have failed woefully in tackling the mass poverty in our nation. This is breeding ground for malcontents and the source of the increasing violence in the country. • For comments, send SMS to 08054503031

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Senate should move closer to Reps on Emergency Powers Act

HE National Assembly is set to begin work on a harmonised version of their assent to President Goodluck Jonathan’s State of Emergency Proclamation (2013). The Senate, reports indicate, has unanimously endorsed the president’s proposals, of course, after noting very grandly the need to nurture democracy and retain democratic structures. It is obvious that the upper chamber, which has made some variations in the proposal, took cognisance of massive, but probably uncritical, public endorsement of the president’s proclamation of state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States. The House of Representatives also, in response to public sentiment, endorsed the president’s proposal, but with significant modifications. As both chambers prepare to inaugurate a conference committee to harmonise the two versions, it is important they balance the public mood, which is decidedly, if not fanatically, in favour of unreserved assent, with their onerous and constitutional responsibility to make laws that will stand the test of time. That the National Assembly is generally in favour of emergency is not in doubt. That majority of Nigerians endorse emergency is also not in doubt. But it is at times like this, when the country seems to single-mindedly embrace a point of view, that there is need for a pause to reconsider the fateful steps we are

about to take, even if those steps turn out to be right. It is precisely when the public mood is impatient and fiercely intolerant of dissent, when there is a general absence of rigorous debate, and when the national mind seems completely made up, that a devil’s advocate is needed. The House of Representatives’ consideration of the president’s request for emergency powers comes closest to the ideal legislative undertaking. Yes, the situation the country faces is dire; but if democracy is to be saved, the country has a historic duty to anticipate and check any tendency for executive excesses, for the threats we face do not emanate from militants only but also from those who purport to fight militancy. The end, history teaches, is as important as the means. The modifications the Reps have proposed are in fact not revolutionary or subversive of peace, but are significant and indicative of an admirable measure of caution necessary to improve and sustain qualitative legislative work. In the Reps version, Section 2 of the Emergency Powers Act has been modified to make it very clear that the executive branch in state and local governments could not be subordinated to the president or his designee in the emergency states. This modification may be minor, but it is nonetheless significant, for if it had remained, the promise the president made not to tamper with the tenure or powers of the governors and local government chairmen in the affected states

would have been of no effect. Section 2 (3) of the Act makes a provocative provision to directly bind the governor and LG chairman to obey the president’s order. Though the Reps modified it to limit its applicability to peace, order and security, it really should have been expunged, for clauses 1 and 2 could be vitiated by clause 3. Hardball had last week feared that given the huge cost of executing emergency, the federal government might be tempted to utilise a part of the allocations of the other two tiers of government in the three states. The Act in fact makes such a provision under Section 3(2e) empowering the president to utilise state and LG funds. Mercifully, however, the Reps have reportedly tinkered with that provision and barred the federal government from touching those funds. If the lower chamber had not had the foresight to do that, that provision could have opened a dangerous window into arbitrariness, if not extension of the period of emergency. There are a few more changes the Reps made to the Act. While the details of the modifications made by the Senate have not been published, it is important that during harmonisation, the Senate should move closer to the Reps position. It must be reiterated that while the country is passing through a very troubling time, the legislature must keep a presence of mind that enables it to check executive contrivances. That presence of mind must never be subordinated to the often explosive and unregulated public mood.

Published and printed by Vintage Press Limited. Corporate Office: 27B Fatai Atere Way, Matori, Lagos. P.M.B. 1025,Oshodi, Lagos. Telephone: Switch Board: 01-8168361. Editor Daily:01-8962807, Marketing: 01-8155547 . Abuja Office: Plot 5, Nanka Close AMAC Commercial Complex, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja. Tel: 07028105302. Port Harcourt Office: 12/14, Njemanze Street, Mila 1, Diobu, PH. 08023595790. WEBSITE: www.thenationonlineng.net E-mail: info@thenationonlineng.net ISSN: 115-5302 Editor: GBENGA OMOTOSO