May 30, 2013

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Tambuwal: don’t derail democracy

CBN boss Sanusi is Governor of the Year

NEWS Page 6

•‘Politicians should behave well’

•African Banker Awards 2013

NEWS

Page 6

www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 8, NO. 2501 THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

Oba of Lagos Rilwanu Akiolu (third right) cutting the tape to open the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge…yesterday. With him are Governor Babatunde Fashola (fourth left); his deputy Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (third left); Fashola’s wife Abimbola (second right); former secretary to the Government of the Federation Alhaji Yayale Ahmed (right); Miss Toluwalase Akerele; Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure SEE ALSO PAGES 56&62 PHOTOS: OMOSEHIN MOSES Dr. Obafemi Hamzat (second left) and Managing Director, Julius Berger Nigeria, Mr. Wolfgang Goetsh. Below: The bridge.

Federal Govt gives self pass mark

Deputy resists pressure to dump Amaechi

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From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

OVERNOR Rotimi Amaechi is heading for a Federal High Court today to challenge his suspension from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by its National Working Committee(NWC).

The governor has assembled a legal team, “most of who have voluntarily offered to defend democracy and the rule of law”.

But, his opponents are not taking it easy, going by a plot to cause disaffection in Amaechi’s camp. Some forces in the Presidency are mounting pressure on his deputy, Tele Ikuru, an engineer, to abandon his boss.

•ANPP, activist disagree

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan described yesterday the midterm performance of his administration as creditable.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Anyim Pius Anyim, Minister of Finance Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Minister of National Planning Shamsudeen Usman gave the gov-

Continued on page 6

From Augustine Ehikioya, Gbenga Omokhunu Abuja and Seun Akioye

ernment a pass mark.

President Jonathan launched a document on the performance of the government in the last two years at a ceremony organised to mark Democracy Day at the InterContinued on page 6

2015: Obasanjo calls for leadership change

Ex-president raises posers in Jigawa ahead of next general elections

F •Obasanjo

ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo reopened yesterday what is arguably Nigeria’s most critical issue – leadership.

“You know you can help somebody to get the job, but you cannot help him to do it. If somebody cannot do the job, we have Sule Lamido who we are confident can do the job,” he told a crowd

‘

You know you can help somebody to get the job, but you cannot help him to do it. If somebody cannot do the job...

From Kolade Adeyemi, Dutse

of would-be investors, dignitaries and ordinary folks in Dutse, capital of Jigawa State.

It was at the opening of the First Ji-

gawa State Economic and Investment Summit at the Sir Amadu Bello Hall at the state secretariat.

Obasanjo did not elaborate on his statement and it was not immediate-

’

ly clear whether he was talking about the 2015 election. Jigawa State Governor Lamido is being rumoured to be interested in the presidential race with Continued on page 6

•SPORTS P23 •POLITICS P43 •E-BUSINESS P47 •MONEYLINK P51 •CITYBEATS P56

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NEWS DEMOCRACY DAY CELEBRATION Ahmed urges Nigerians to have faith in democracy

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•From Left: Senate Leader Victor Ndoma-Egba; Chairman, Senate Committee on Works, Anyogu Eze; Senate President David Mark and Chairman, Senate Committee On Police Affairs, Paulinus Nwagwu, after a special mass to mark Democracy Day, at St. Mulumba Chaplaincy, Apo Legislative Quarters, Abuja...yesterday

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Aliyu: we’ll get to Promised Land

IGER State Governor Babangida Aliyu yesterday said his administration, in the last six years, has proved to all those doubting his ability to deliver dividends of democracy, that challenges can be surmounted.

Addressing reporters after the ground-breaking ceremony

of the multi-billion naira Minna City Centre in Minna, Niger State capital, the governor said he would ensure that he leaves the state better than he met it.

He promised to ensure that every project and programme his administration started is

completed on or before the expiration of his term on May 28, 2015.

Aliyu said: “Today makes it six years of this administration.

Our achievement is a confirmation to everyone, even those who have no faith in God, to know that there is God. I’m very happy that we have

ment.

The governor said he would do more to ensure better life for the people of Oyo State.

He said the remaining part of his tenure will be spent on the construction of the 110-kilometre Ibadan Circular Road, which he said would serve as the epicentre of development in the new Oyo State.

Ajimobi promised to pursue the development of a cargo airport to serve, not only the state but also neighbouring states and West Africa.

He said: “We shall also continue our programme of infrastructure development and a holistic transformation of our

education, energy and health sectors.

“We are running a race in which we are conscious of our pedigree as administrators and our irrevocable promises to the good people of Oyo State.

“I recollect that we, on our honour, promised to make Oyo State better than we met it. We promised to make a difference in the chaotic and filthy social order that we inherited, through transparent and good governance. “We also reckon that a dirty Oyo State or a dirty Ibadan - the capital of the state - which the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), some years back, ranked as one

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

come this far. All the challenges we met, we have been able to surmount them and work for the people.

“I will continue to make sure that all the things we have started are completed by the time we are leaving office.

Everything else is in the hands of God.”

Ajimobi promises renewed infrastructural revolution

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YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi yesterday promised to serve the state with a renewed vigour for the remaining part of his tenure.

Besides, he promised to ensure infrastructural revolution that would further propel the socio-economic development of the state to greater heights.

The governor made the promise during his broadcast to mark the second anniversary of his administration.

Ajimobi noted that his administration has recorded significant achievements in the first half of his tenure, which have attracted wide acknowledge-

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•Ajimobi

of the filthiest in Nigeria, was not acceptable to us.

“We reckoned that a clean and welcoming environment would invariably attract investors to our state, thereby creating employment and expanding our economy, to the benefit of our people.”

Activist to Fed Govt: declare June 12 Democracy Day

HE Coordinator, Joint Action Front (JAF), Dr Ademola Aremu, has appealed to the Federal Government to declare June 12 the Democracy Day in Nigeria.

Aremu, who is also the National Treasurer of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), spoke at a forum organised by the Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN) in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. It was held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

The activist insisted that May 29 was an accident of history.

According to him, June 12, 1993 was the day Nigerians trooped out in large number to vote without considering class, ethnic or religious considerations.

Aremu said: “It is an accident of history to call May 29 Democracy Day. For me, June

‘June 12 should be Democracy Day’ From Osagie Otabor, Benin

A lawmaker representing Akoko-Edo Constituency 1 in the Edo State House of Assembly, Kabiru Adjoto, has urged the Federal Government to change the celebration of Democracy Day from May 29 to June 12.

The lawmaker said June 12 is most appropriate because “it was a day Nigerians spoke with one voice and elected their leader”.

He said Nigerians should realise the sacrifice the winner of the historic election, the late Bashorun Moshood Abiola, made and died for.

Adjoto said: “My Democracy Day is June 12. That was the day Nigerians spoke with one voice. That was the day Nigerians voted for a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

“It was the day Christians and Muslims bridged their faith for a single candidate. It was the day Nigerians freed themselves from the shackles of tribal and ethnic sentiments.”

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

12, 1993 is the true Democracy Day. That was the day Nigerians went out to vote devoid of

ethnicity, religion, region, class or any other divisive item. But what we have now is a country of fear where, if you are not kidnapped, you are robbed or

bombed by terrorists. What we have is an aristocratic government of the rich for a few rich people. Budget performance has been unimpressive and qualitative life becomes rare in Nigeria. What are we celebrating?

“Seventy per cent of our annual budget goes into the payment of salaries and emoluments of politicians. They have retinue of aides and they feed on our money. That is why Nigeria is the country recording highest cost of governance.

It is obvious that our leaders are crippling the nation. They are failing us. The result of the Governors’ Forum election has shown the calibre of people ruling us. Till date, we don’t have the authentic result. When 35 people find it difficult to conduct free, credible and fair election, it speaks volume to what they can do if it involves millions of the electorate.”

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

WARA State Governor AbdulFatah Ahmed yesterday urged Nigerians not to be discouraged by the challenges threatening the country’s democracy.

He expressed optimism that the challenges are temporary setbacks that would “our resilience stronger”.

The governor spoke yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, during the celebration of his second term in office.

He said: “As we look back at the last 14 years and reflect on our current situation, some may be discouraged by the challenges that threaten to overshadow our democracy.

“I wish to state with all emphasis at my disposal that our resilience is stronger. We will overcome these temporary setbacks.

“As I speak, thousands are gathered across the country to hear their leaders extol the gains of democracy. Some will recount their successes; others will focus on the challenges that currently confront us as a people. Like us, some will choose to celebrate their strengths and look to the future with optimism.

“As someone who recognises the supremacy of the people in our democratic experience, I choose to celebrate you, the good people of Kwara State, for your unalloyed support and for keeping faith.

“In that mode, I look forward with you to a bright future, a future filled with peace, equity and prosperity for us all; a future where the opportunities for growth are as limitless as our aspiration for lasting well-being; a future where our children and their children can thrive and reach their maximum potential.”

Ogun shelves celebration

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From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

HE Ogun State Government yesterday shelved the celebration of Democracy Day. Scores of people from far and near yesterday gathered at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, the state capital, for the celebration. But the event did not hold.

At the June 12 Cultural Centre, our correspondent observed that the entrance doors were chained but scores of people were getting copies of a compact disc (CD) containing the achievements of Governor Ibikunle Amosun in the last one year.

The CDs were being distributed by persons close to the government.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu said the government planned a low-key event.

He explained that instead of gathering the people at the stadium, stakeholders in the state would be taken round project sites the administration has executed for on-the-spot assessment.

In his 7am live broadcast on the state television, Amosun said the administration faced some challenges but also recorded successes in its Five Cardinal Programmes or Mission to Rebuild Ogun State.

The governor said neither himself nor his administration would take for granted the sacrifices the people are making to rebuild the state.

Nigeria won’t break up, says Ashafa

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HE Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing, Lands and Urban Development, Gbenga Ashafa, yesterday said Nigeria will not break up, despite the challenges it is facing.

The senator was responding to the rumour that the country may soon break up as a result of the incessant insecurity challenges in parts of the country.

Speaking at his constituency office through his Media Officer, Mr Babatunde Adegunju, the senator said: “Nigeria will not break up, despite diverse challenges currently facing it.”

Ashafa described the current national challenges as expected towards nation-building.

The senator added that they are not signs of disintegration, as expressed in some quarters.

He said: “Nigeria, at the moment, is going through a whole lot of hardship as a result of insecurity, high rate of unemployment and inadequate power supply, among others. Despite all these inadequacies, Nigeria still remains united.”

ACN chieftain unhappy From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

A

STALWART of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and Second Republic senator, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, has decried the retarded growth of the nation in the last 14 years of democracy.

Describing Nigeria’s democracy as a ruse, the politician regretted that the present civil rule does not have much positive effects on the masses.

Fasanmi, who spoke yesterday on a life radio and television programme of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC), noted that corruption is the major factor militating against democracy in the country.

He said: “Nigeria’s democracy could have been better than that of some advanced countries of the world but for corruption which has eaten deep into the fabric of the society.

“The love of money by many political leaders is a great danger to the future of democracy in this country. Nigerians, who are politicians today, believe in money and not in service, like it was during our active days in politics.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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NEWS

Baba Lakyo

• From left: Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, former President Shehu Shagari and former Head of Government Ernest Shonekan during the Democracy Day celebration at the International Conference Centre in Abuja...yesterday.

•From left: Chief of Army Staff LT. Gen. Azubuke Ihejirika, Chief of Defence Staff Ola Sa'ad Ibrahim , Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Alex Badeh, Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Dikko and Minister of State for Defence Erelu Olusola Obada at theDemocracy Day celebration at the International Conference Centre in Abuja...yesterday.

His image was that of a scary character capable of evil.

Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura believes the 76-year-old Ala Agu and his Ombatse sect constitute danger to the society because of their activities, especially the alleged killing of 56 policemen and State Security officials. But, when ONYEDI OJIABOR met Agu, popularly known as Baba Lakyo, he appeared simple. Does his mien portray the real man?

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•Former Senate President Adolphous Wabara (left), former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu (second left), Chief Dan Etiebet and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, at the Democracy Day celebration at the International Conference Centre in Abuja...yesterday.

•From left: The Source Publisher Ms. Confort Obi, Senator Ayogu Eze, Minister of Housing Development Ama Pepple and Princess Peace Nnaji during the Democracy Day celebration at the International Conference Centre in Abuja. ..yesterday.

PHOTOS: AKIN OLADOKUN

FIRST-TIME visitor to Lakyo, Nasarawa South Local Government Area of Nasarawa State may doubt whether the sleepy village was the same place, where 56 security operatives were killed in an ambush believed to have been perpetrated by members of a group known as the Ombatse on May 7.

The community looks like any typical rural setting with mango trees dotting its streets.

Pipeborne water and electricity are still luxury. There is no post-primary school in the community, which is close to Lafia, the state capital.

Lakyo has, however, come into limelight following the killings of the security operatives drafted to the village to capture “dead or alive” the spiritual leader of Ombatse deity - Baba Lakyo.”

Baba Lakyo himself has rightly or wrongly been demonised and made to look larger-than-life.

For fear of the unknown, many reporters declined the invitation extended to them by Senator Solomon Ewuga to tour Lakyo community.

Ewuga, who is representing Nasarawa North Senatorial District invited the reporters to “go to Lakyo to see things for yourselves.”

Many of the reporters saw Lakyo as a “no-go-area and a land of death”. Others dreaded the idea of going to face Baba Lakyo, whose real name is Ala Agu. On the day Ewuga led some reporters to meet Baba Lakyo, the septuagenarian sat comfortably in a red three-seater couch in an enclosure surrounded by three mud houses.

From the outset, the senator made it clear that he organised the visit a matter of national responsibility and also to enable him have an on-the-spot assessment in

•Agu

Lakyo.

Baba Lakyo’s appearance neither instilled fear nor anxiety in anybody.

Going by the trend of reports, visitors expected to see charms and amulets-wearing Baba Lakyo, guarded by blood-thirsty cultists.

He was not sitting on any wealth, neither did his mien suggest a man who has seen riches or even come in contact with men on the corridors of power.

Adjoining houses in the neighbourhood were not better either. Most of the houses have improvised doors made of zinc. Yet, the man has a larger-than-life-image.

It was rather ironical that Ala Agu, the spiritual head of the Lakyo community looks like any other villager.

His whitened beards were trimmed short. His eyes seemed closed as if he was asleep but he was wide awake, responding to questions posed through an interpreter, called Allu Maga.

Baba Lakyo’s mud house has a tiny gate.

He wore three rings on his left hand and did not betray any fear, despite reports that he has declared wanted by the police.

A few meters away from his house were about eight burnt ve-

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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NEWS

...the godfather of Ombatse

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•al-Makura

I, as a person, have the capacity to deal with Ombatse to the necessary conclusion, but due to the fact that it will negate the democratic process, we have to go from one step to another

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•Adamu

hicles, the sign of the failed May 7 security mission.

The few houses in the village are built with mud. It is not in doubt that Baba Lakyo’s village is far from the 21st Century.

It is out of place to think of the internet, modern health facilities and other indices of development.

The visiting reporters did not see a single maternity home, an indication that traditional birth attendants take care of births in the heavily populated community.

Obviously too, the community represents one of the places where modernity is far despite billions being annually budgeted for ‘development’ by federal and state governments over the years.

At the entrance of Lakyo, excited residents welcomed the reporters.

They looked innocent, warm and calm but seemingly proud of their communal life and keen to portray solidarity. Some shouted: “United Eggon, united Eggon” in their local Eggon dialect as they sighted strangers. It was a moving spectacle.

In Lakyo, time seems to standstill. Life itself seems captured in suspended animation in a community that keenly reminds one of what rural communities looked like in the early 60s.

Moving deeper into the commu-

nity, there are open farm lands but no sign of government presence at all.

The only primary school is said to have been established by the United Baptist Church.

Most of the pupils, villagers say, study under the trees.

Baba Lakyo told whoever cared to listen that he had no hand in the killings of 46 policemen and 10 SSS personnel, who were said to have been ambushed on their way from Lafia, en-route Lakyo to arrest him.

Nigerians may never know the truth about what happened to the 56 security operatives who died in Lakyo on May 7.

Were they killed by Ombatse cultists? The police believe so but the villagers disagree. They insisted that nothing could be farther from the truth.

To compound issues, there have been insinuations that the operatives may have been killed by a splinter group.

Who are members of the splinter group? Is there a splinter group at all? Is Ombatse evil as the group is being painted?

In the words of Baba Lakyo, Governor Umaru Tanko al-Makura should be blamed for the death of the security operatives.

He said he was happy that Senator Ewuga and House of Represen-

tatives member Joseph Haruna Kigbu, who represents Lafia Federal Constituency, visited him.

Baba Lakyo said he had craved for an opportunity to state his own side of the story. He bared his mind on the Lakyo massacre.

He said: “I am grateful for your coming, Senator. I am very, very grateful for your 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.”

According to him, he was in a nearby village when the incident occurred and was only informed when he returned that the governor sent operatives to come and kill him.

Asked whether the incident had anything to do with politics, he said: “If you are talking about poli-

tics, it does not border me. I don’t even understand Hausa 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 initiate them as members of Ombatse, he said: “If I ever opened my mouth to force anybody to take oath, God should punish me.”

He told his guests that Ombatse is an association of Lakyo boys into which nobody is forced to join.

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 claiming that it was even more saddening that he was being linked to the incident, especially when he knew nothing about what happened to the operatives. al-Makura said democratic processes had prevented him from dealing decisively with the group.

He said: "We are operating a democracy where certain things have to follow due process. I, as a person, have the capacity to deal with Ombatse to the necessary conclusion, but due to the fact that it will negate the democratic process, we have to go from one step to another."

The governor, in a newspaper interview, said: "One day, towards the end of November, they were congregating in alarming numbers at the vicinity of Nasarawa-Eggon Local Government Area, in a village called Allogana. The congregation was so large that it attracted security attention.

"The SSS, with the support of the Army, went there because there had been these skirmishes between the Fulani and farmers in the area.

So, any congregation was so sensitive to the security (agencies). They went to find out what was happening, and they discovered more than 2,000 people participating in certain rites. So, the SSS and the Army went to find out who was their public relations officer or the chair-

man.

"It took the expertise and professional instinct of those security people to quietly and tactfully withdraw, but that was not without missing two of their vehicles that were vandalised and destroyed.

"So, that was the day I asked them, 'what is the name of this your organisation that you are complaining?' They said their thing was Ombatse. I don't know what Ombatse is, I am not from that tribe. They said that was their grandfathers' thing.

"It was just as if it was an ordinary thing until a week after and when there was a disagreement among three armed robbers, one of whom came from that ethnic group, with two from other ethnic groups. They had an altercation in the distribution of the booty, and in the process, the two injured one of them and the chap had the guts to go and tell his people.

"He was a member of that cult, so when he told them, the same day, they went and descended on the village and killed more than 25 people, destroyed the chief's palace and burnt so many houses.

"The following day, we discovered that it was the Ombatse group, and instantly, my administration, in that same November, proscribed the group and made it an outlaw." al-Makura said the name Ombatse means "our time has come" or "this is our time", adding: "I do not understand what they mean by this is our time. Our time to do what?

"They have attacked seven towns and in five out of those seven towns, they killed, maimed, and destroyed houses, particularly palaces in five of these places."

The group's membership, he said, was exclusive to people that are Eggon by blood.

He said he received petitions against the group from the Christian Association of Nigeria and the Jamatu Nasril Islam over the coercion of their members who are Eggon to participate in certain rites by the group.

He said the leader of the group rebuffed all attempts by security agencies to invite him to their offices and the intervention of the Emir of Lafia and the paramount ruler of the Eggon.

A former governor of Nasarawa State and now a senator, Abdullahi Adamu, alleged that the killers of the slain police officers were playing the script of their tribal political lords ahead of the 2015 elections.

During a condolence visit to alMakura, Adamu said no ethnic group has the monopoly of violence.

Adamu said those behind the killing were known to government and must not be allowed to go unpunished to deter others who have the same intention.

He said as a stakeholder in the state, he would rally round the government to ensure that tribal politics is eliminated.

He added: “The least the government and the people of the state can do is to reciprocate their sacrifice by fishing out their killers to face the full weight of the law."

President, Eggon Cultural Development Association Mr. Chris Mamman said the only way to get to the root of of the matter was for the Federal Government to set up a judicial commission of enquiry.

The state government on Monday set up a commission of enquiry to unravel the mystery behind the death of the security agents.

Will it find Baba Lakyo culpable?

Time will tell.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NEWS CBN boss Sanusi is Governor of the Year

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•Sanusi (second left) receiving the Africa Central Bank Governor of the Year Award in Marrakesh, Morrocco last night. With him (from left) are Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy and Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Onkonjo-Iweala, CEO of BSC in Mauritania, Mohammed Bouanatou and CBN Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Sarah Alade

Deputy resists pressure to dump Amaechi Continued from page 1

The forces have promised to make Ikuru the governor, if he can cooperate with them to impeach Amaechi.

But Ikuru is standing firm, “because he prefers loyalty than being a traitor”.

Amaechi was suspended on Monday as a member of the PDP by the NWC without any notice of infraction. He has rejected the action, saying he got no fair hearing.

There have been attempts to provoke Amaechi’s camp into violence in Rivers State, but the governor has decided to pursue his case through legal process, it was learnt.

A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “Amaechi has advised all his supporters and aides not to engage in any form of violence, no matter the prov-

ocation.

“When some thugs imported from neighbouring states and ex-militants almost overran the Government House in Port Harcourt about two weeks ago, the governor told security men not to fire a shot.

“To avoid mayhem, the governor left the Government House” Amaechi is expected to file papers before a Federal High Court today.

“Amaechi’s position is that democracy can only thrive where the rule of law is allowed to take its normal course. He has gone through the wheel of justice in the past and he won,” another source said.

Ikuru, who is under pressure to dump Amaechi was the deputy governor to ex-Governor Celestine Omehia in 2007 before the election was nullified by the

court.

Ikuru survived the crisis and paired up with Amaechi in 2011 for a fresh mandate.

He is being asked to return to his pre-2007 political camp “to deal with” his boss.

Another source said: “They are dangling the carrots of being a governor in a life time to Ikuru as part of the plot to impeach Amaechi.

“These anti-Amaechi forces believe that since Ikuru is also a force to reckon with in Rivers State politics, it will be an easy ride to impeach the governor if the deputy gives his consent.

“They are also talking of a realignment of forces which would enable Ikuru to run for one term as a governor from 2015 to 2019.

“Ikuru has however decided to stand by his boss. He has not made any commitment to the

Tambuwal warns against undemocratic traits

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HE lingering crises in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the threat they pose to the survival of Nigeria’s democracy seem to be agitating the mind of House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. He yesterday warned politicians not to destroy the present democratic dispensation.

By Waheed Odusile

The Speaker was particularly unhappy with “some traits that are very, very undemocratic” that have been creeping into our system of late, which have the tendencies to destroy this democratic setting.

Speaking at the Trade Fair Complex in Sokoto on the occasion of the 2013 Democracy Day celebration, Tambuwal

anti-Amaechi forces.

“I can tell you that so far, this is the plot. They are talking to lawmakers, they also want to lobby the deputy governor to abandon his boss.”

As at press time, moves by anti-Amaechi forces to retrieve the ballots of the last Friday Nigeria Governors’ Forum election have failed.

They have been searching for the ballot papers for forensic analysis of those who voted for Amaechi and the Governor of Plateau State, Chief David Jang.

A source in the anti-Amaechi camp said: “No one is ready to release the ballot papers. But, they have forgotten that a court can compel the NGF secretariat to make the ballot papers available for examination.

“We may end up going to court to challenge the election and demand for the examination of the ballot papers. Do not forget that NGF is a legal body.”

noted: “What we have been witnessing recently in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, there are some traits that are very, very undemocratic that are creeping into our systems. I would call on all of us who are actors in this democracy not only to sustain the legacies of our heroes past by improving on what we have met, but by Continued on page 8

•Tambuwal

OVERNOR of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, was yesterday awarded the accolade of Central Bank Governor of the Year, by the African Banker Awards.

The award, which has now been won thrice by Sanusi, according to a statement, was in recognition of his outstanding work in sustaining banking reforms.

The statement noted that Sanusi has also “ensured macroeconomic stability, protected the independence of the Central Bank and enhanced many aspects of the Nigerian Banking including adoption of new technologies for financial inclusion; continuous modernisation and more transparent disclosures.”

The Award Committee also said Sanusi “ has been continuously singled out by many of your central banking peers, international bankers, investors and development partners as a reformist governor with integrity, candour, energy and

By Ayodele Aminu,

Group Business Editor

exceptional courage.

“There is no doubt that Africa’s improved reputation today is in large part owed to the achievements of leaders like you, and IC Publications as well as our event partners wholeheartedly cherish your exceptional contribution to the economic development of the African continent.”

Sanusi was recently awarded the accolade of Central Bank Governor of the Year, Sub-Saharan Africa, by the global business magazine, Emerging Markets.

The African Banker Awards now in its 7th edition, are designed to promote entrepreneurial excellence and worldclass practices in banking and finance in Africa. They honour achievements in financial institutions and individuals who have contributed significantly to the reform, modernaisation and expansion of the continent’s banking and financial system.

2015: Obasanjo calls for leadership change Continued from page 1

Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi as his running mate.

He has said he is yet to think about 2015.

Although he did not mention the President’s name in Dutse yesterday, Obasanjo has been critical of the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan administration.

He has spoken against its handling of the Boko Haram insurgency and the growing unemployment, saying it is a bomb waiting to explode.

Obasanjo said the government should have approached the Boko Haram insurgency the way he (Obasanjo) handled the killing of security men in Odi (Bayelsa State) and Zaki Biam (Benue State) communities when he was the president.

But President Jonathan fired back, saying the soldiers Obasanjo sent to Odi failed to get those who killed the security men.

Dr. Jonathan said as deputy

governor of Bayelsa State at the time, he discovered, when he visited Odi after the military raid, that only women and children were killed by the soldiers.

Obasanjo has also in recent time, distanced himself from activities of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) , which is immersed in crises.

He resigned his membership of the Board of Trustees (BoT).

The former president however revealed that, he was the one who imposed Lamido on the people of Jigawa. He is happy that he was not disappointed, he said.

Obasanjo also called on governors to maintain cordial relationship with the Federal Government so as to ensure meaningful development.

He said there was need for governors to show full cooperation with the government at the centre for the common interest of the nation and its citizens.

The former President also deContinued on page 8

Federal Government scores self pass mark Continued from page 1

national Conference Centre in Abuja.

Opposition All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and Lagos lawyer, Bamidele Aturu, said the government has not lived up to the expectations of Nigerians.

At the ceremony were former Heads of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Second Republic President Alhaji Shehu Shagari and former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former military President Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar did not attend.

Two foreign dignitaries – former Liberian President Amos Sawyer and former United States presidential aspirant Rev. Jesse Jackson attended.

Dr. Jonathan said his administration had done well but he faulted the recent assessment of his ministers by

a national newspaper, wondering what kind of criteria was used for the assessment.

“I noticed that some ministers - National Planning, Trade and Investment - were scored average. From 2007, I have worked with two ministers of National Planning and two ministers of Trade and Investment; they have never done what has been done today.” He praised the minister in charge of the ministries.

“Today, we are marking the end of the first 24 months, which is our midterm review and my duty is to formally present a document that all Nigerians will be able to read and assess us.

“So, I am not meant to talk and, of course, you have heard from the Planning minister, the Finance minister and the Secretary to the Government, that will give you the idea of what we have done.

“The idea is to formally present a document to all Nigerians about the activities of government in the past two

years. I plead with all of us, especially those who want to assess and write about it, to develop criteria because without a marking scheme, you cannot mark any student’s paper. Two years of a government, this is what we have done, develop your marking scheme and score us.”

Presenting a report on the Economic Policy Framework (2011 -2013), Mrs. OkonjoIweala said remarkable progress had been made in the economy.

She said Nigeria’s economy was strong and growing, adding that foreign reserve is $50 billion, up from $32.08 billion in May 2011.

Due to the level of foreign reserve, she said, foreign exchange has remained stable in the past two years.

According to Mrs. OkonjoIweala, Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is one of the fastest growing in the world. The GDP growth in 2013 is expected to be at 6.5% (NBS) or 7.2% (IMF).

Inflation rate, she said, has

slowed down to 9.1% from 12.4% in May 2011.

She said: “Our economy has been growing. Inflation has been coming down. Our focus is to complete ongoing projects. The government is concerned about keeping our debts low. We have started retiring existing debts. We want to keep our debts at very manageable level.”

Noting that Nigeria’s export is shifting from oil to non-oil products, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala said oil export is 70 per cent while nonoil export is 30 per cent.

The Excess Crude Account (ECA), component of external reserve, she said, rose from $4 billion in May 2011 to $9 billion in 2012 and $6 billion in May 2013.

ECA is now helping the economy as oil production has fallen from the projected 2.53 million barrels per day to between 2.1 and 2.2 million barrel per day, the minister said.

According to her, the cost of government is reducing thanks to a policy to reduce

recurrent expenditure and complete unfinished capital projects.

Recurrent expenditure dropped from 74.4% of total budget in 2011 to 68.7% in 2013.

Annual borrowing has reduced from N852 billion in 2011 to N588 billion in 2013.

The Minister also claimed that aggressive monitoring of contract threshold, encouraging whistle blowing, introduction of stiffer penalties and take-off of e-procurement led to savings of N420 billion at the end of 2012.

On the expenditure side, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala said Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) have resulted in N118.9 billion savings on the payroll cost, and that 58% of the budget is now being executed through Introduction of the Government Integrated Financial Management and Information System (GIFMIS).

Through the Treasury Sin-

Continued on page 8

•Dr. Okonjo-Iweala

ADVERT HOTLINES: 08023006969, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION THURSDAY MAY 30, 2013

7

NEWS Reps to probe Works Ministry over N200b abandoned projects From: Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

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•Elder Paul Ananaba (SAN), Chairman of the occasion (second left), with others from left, Mr. Dan Okoye, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun, the representative of the Commissioner for the Environment (third left) and Prof. Princewill Qucialah (standing first right), during the presentation of the books, “Family Law Practice in Modern Nigeria” and “Our Common Environment”, written by Mr. Ajuzie Osondu, held at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos... yesterday.

PHOTO:RAHMAN SANUSI

HE Public Account Committee (PAC) of the House of Representatives is to investigate the Federal Ministry of Works over abandoned projects across the country valued at over N200billion.

The committee has also uncovered N27billion allegedly paid to a contractor, who later abandoned the project.

The Chairman of the committee, Mr. Solomon Adeola, said this during an interactive session between the committee and the Federal Ministry of Works over 28 queries raised against the ministry by the office of the Auditor-General of the Federation (AG).

Adeola said although the committee was not on a witchhunt mission of any contractor or officials of the ministry, it appeared some officials of the ministry were collaborating with the contractors to fleece the Federal Government of several billions of naira on jobs not done over the years.

While he noted that collaborators should no longer be spared by the law, the lawmaker said: “It is time we started recommending the erring engineers for trial because they are the ones on ground to see that necessary things are done after which they will sign performance job certificates before any money is paid out.”

The ministry was given till June 4 to produce relevant documents on the abandoned projects from 1999 to 2008 to aid the investigation.

The committee also promised to make an on-the-spot assessment of the N401million Auchi-Igara-Ibilo Road Edo State rehabilitation project awarded in 2009 with over N200million already paid out.

‘Give Navy power to prosecute Dispute over ballot boxes: Jega, sea criminals’ INEC lose bid to stay judgment T

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, have lost in their bid to stay a judgment, which restrained them from further using transparent ballot boxes for election without the consent of the patent right owner.

Justice Adamu Bello of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in a ruling on Tuesday, refused the application by INEC and Jega, seeking a stay of execution of the judgment, pending the determination of their appeal.

Justice Bello in the judgment given on June 5, 2012 in the suit marked: FHC/ ABJ/CS/82/11 held among others that the plaintiff, Bedding Holding Limited, owns valid and subsisting patent rights over transparent ballot boxes and electronic collapsible transparent ballot boxes being used for elections in the country.

The judge voided the rights over similar inventions purportedly issued subsequently to three firms -

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

Emchai Limited, Tambco United Nigeria Ltd and Anowat Project and Resources Ltd - by the Registrar of Patent for being illegal.

Justice Bello granted an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants and any other person from utilising or dealing with the patented boxes of the plaintiff “except with the express and prior consent, licence and authority of the plaintiff to that effect.”

Dismissing INEC and Jega’s application on Tuesday, the judge held that the relief granted in the judgment were mainly declarative and were incapable of being stayed.

Justice Bello came down hard on INEC and Jega for acting in disregard of the court’s order.

He frowned at the decision of the electoral body and its chairman to deploy the same ballot boxes for the governorship elections held on July 10, 2012 in Edo State and on October 20, 2012 in Ondo

State without the consent of the plaintiff and in disregard of the court’s subsisting order made on June 5, 2012.

He held that it was funny that INEC and Jega would approach his court for an indulgence having willingly disregarded and flouted its order.

“The use of the ballot boxes has soiled the applicants’ hands. He who comes to equity must come with clean hands. They can not therefore seek the indulgence of the court having flouted its orders,” Justice Bello said.

He, however, granted an order staying proceedings in the contempt case pending against INEC and its principal officers for using the ballot boxes without the patent rights owner’s consent.

The stay is to subsist, pending the determination of the appeal by INEC and Jega.

Justice Bello also dismissed a similar application

by Emchai for lacking in merit.

Emchai had sought an order setting aside the June 5, 2012 judgment on the

grounds that it was given in default of appearance. It also sought the setting aside of the order of substituted service granted the plaintiff.

Justice Bello held that the judgment was given on merit because trial was conducted. The judge also held that he exercised his discretionary powers in ordering substituted service of processes on the applicant, having been convinced by the evidence presented by the plaintiff.

He also refused to set aside the judgment, as prayed by Emchai, on the grounds that setting it aside would render worthless the pending appeal by INEC and Jega.

HE Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, yesterday said the Nigerian Navy (NN) would be most delighted if it was given the constitutional power to prosecute sea criminals.

Ibas, who spoke after the command took 342 civilians on a sea trip to commemorate Navy’s 57th anniversary, said if the Navy was given prosecutorial power over sea crimes, it would curb the crimes.

He warned pirates and sea robbers operating within the country’s water ways to stay clear as it is no longer business as usual, noting that the force is in need of more platforms for effectiveness.

The FOC, who noted that there have been limited cases of oil bunkering in the West-

By Precious Igbonwelundu

ern Command, said the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba, is committed to ridding the country’s water ways of pirates, sea robbers and oil thieves, who have been making the country to lose millions from its crude oil production.

He said the command had made several arrests of oil thieves and would not relent in cleaning up the water ways and protecting Nigeria’s oil facilities at sea.

Ibas said the Navy opened its doors to civilians because it belonged to the people and the force wanted the public to experience and understand its duties.

Buhari: evolution of APC is for national cohesion

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HE leader of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday said that the evolution of All Progressives Congress (APC) was not for personal aggrandisement, but for national cohesion.

He spoke in Zaria, Kaduna State at the inauguration of constituency projects by a member representing Zaria Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Buhari, represented by the CPC Chairman

in the state, Alhaji Ahmadu Yaro-Cocacola, said APC, if elected, would foster national unity and restore hope to Nigerians.

He appealed to the electorate to remain humble and peaceful during and after the 2015 general election with a view to electing credible candidates.

Buhari lauded the lawmaker for bringing the dividends of democracy to the doorsteps of his people and urged others to emulate him.

Passenger sues Air France for N192m over alleged racial discrimination

A

N engineer at Shell Petroleum Development Company, Mr. Chidi Adabanya, has sued Air France for N192million at the Federal High Court, Lagos, over alleged racial discrimination.

The plaintiff claimed the airline maltreated him on the basis of his being a Nigerian, which Air France denied.

Adabanya alleged that the airline’s officials told him in Paris that he could not carry two pieces of luggage, which he was entitled to, because the provision was “not for Africans.”

He is, therefore, urging the court, presided over by Justice Okon Abang, to order the defendant to pay him 1.5million Euros (about 192million) as damages.

He also prayed for a refund of 1,381 Euros (or its equivalent of N176,768), which he paid to the defendant for purported excess luggage.

He asked for interest on the sum at the rate of 30 per cent per annum from May 30, 2003 till judgment is delivered.

By Joseph Jibueze

Adabanya also wants Air France to bear the cost of the court action and pay interest at 30 per cent on the damages when it is awarded; from the day judgment is delivered until the sum is fully paid.

The plaintiff said he bought an Air France ticket through an agent in Warri, Delta State sometime in May 2003 for himself, his wife and two daughters to travel to Paris, France.

Their journey, he said, was routed as Lagos, Paris, London, Paris, Lagos.

He said it was stated in the ticket that he was entitled to two pieces of luggage between London to Paris and from Paris to Lagos.

The plaintiff said based on “standard practice on international routes”, each passenger was entitled to two pieces of luggage of not more than a total weight of 64 kilogrammes, each not to weigh more than 32 kilogrammes.

The plaintiff said he left his family in London and went to Paris via Air

•It’s not true, says airline France flight AF1471, from where he would return to Lagos.

On his way to Lagos, he said he packed two pieces of luggage, which did not exceed 32 kilogrammes, but when he got to the Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris on May 30, 2003, he was told that he had excess luggage.

He said the airline official insisted he must pay for the “extra” luggage as he was only entitled to travel with one piece of luggage not weighing more than 23 kilogrammes.

The plaintiff said he referred the official to his ticket, which indicated that he was entitled to two pieces of luggage.

Another official of the airline, the plaintiff claimed, told him that “two pieces of luggage were not for Africans.”

“The second worker said she was speaking for Air France;” that the plaintiff “must pay for anything above 23 kilogrammes,” and that “anything not paid for will be left behind and destroyed,” the plaintiff

said.

Adabanya said he was asked to either pay the money “or send the excess luggage for destruction,” and that if he made any more trouble he would be “stopped from travelling with the flight.”

He said he reminded the airline officials that they were discriminating against him for being an African, but they allegedly ignored his threats to sue, telling him “that was his problem.”

The plaintiff said the treatment “greatly injured his pride” and left him “emotionally and psychologically traumatised,” as he was told in clear terms that “as an African, he was clearly sub-human and not entitled to the same treatment given other members of the international community.”

But Air France denied Adabanya’s claims, saying his journey from London to Paris where he spent five days before leaving for Lagos could not be termed “a continuous journey”,

but two separate journeys.

The airline added: “The plaintiff’s trip was routed Lagos to London and London to Lagos via Paris, which meant that if the plaintiff had travelled from London to Lagos via Paris without stopping over in Paris, he would have been entitled to 64kg allowance, but after stopping and spending five days in Paris, the plaintiff’s journey from Paris to Lagos was subject to the maximum baggage allowance of 23kg allowed on the Paris-Lagos route as opposed to the 64kg allowed on the London-Lagos route.”

Air France said none of its workers assaulted or insulted the plaintiff at the airport, and that “it is incumbent on the plaintiff to identify by name those members of staff that allegedly insulted him.”

“The plaintiff’s claim is frivolous, vexatious, gold digging and an abuse of court process and should be dismissed with punitive costs against the plaintiff,” the airline said.

Justice Abang adjourned till June 19.

8

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NEWS

Undergraduates killed in Bayelsa road accident

A

N unspecified number of part-time undergraduate students were on Tuesday night feared dead.

They were alleged involved in an accident on the Amasoma-Yenagoa Road, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.

The accident reportedly occurred when a bus conveying them to Yenagoa collided with an on-coming car .

There were different versions of the casualty figures after the crash that occured at about 9pm on the eve of Democracy Day. While some accounts said 15 persons died on the spot, others said only five died.

But the Bayelsa Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC),

By Our Reporter

Mr. Vincent Jack, told our correspondent yesterday that he had dispatched a team to the scene of the accident.

“I do not have the casualty figures yet until my men return from the accident scene”, he said.

He, however, confirmed that the accident was a head-on collision involving a Toyota Hiace bus conveying part-time undergraduate students and a car.

The vehicles, with River State registration numbers KNM141XA and XB269KPR were said to be on high speed when the accident occurred.

One of the eyewitnesses, identified as Fungbe, a 100 level part-time student of the uni-

versity said a pregnant woman was rescued from the scene.

“A pregnant woman was rescued from the accident unhurt but five persons including a young lady who sat in front died instantly while others were taken to the nearby hospitals”.

Explaining how the accident occurred, he said, “I was directly behind the bus that was going to the school when I noticed the heavy speed the bus was moving on. I told our driver to slow down.

“Within seconds, we saw a trailer that was moving on a snail speed coming towards the vehicle. The other bus was overtaking the trailer before he noticed that a car coming in the opposite direction had no

headlamp. This resulted in head-on collision”.

Another eyewitness who refused to mention her name blamed the accident on deplorable condition of the road and appealed to the state government to expedite the ongoing construction of the road.

Some of the casualties and injured passengers were said to have been taken to Glory land hospital, Yenagoa for treatment.

Bayelsa police spokesman Alex Akhigbe and the Public Relations Officer of the Niger Delta University, Mr. Joe Alaqua, said they were not aware that people died in the accident.

But Jack who confirmed the accident promised to make the casualty figures known.

•Akwa Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio in the midst of children during Democracy Day celebration in Uyo..... yesterday

2015: Obasanjo calls for leadership change Continued from page 6

scribed Jigawa state as a fertile ground for investment. He urged both local and international investors to locate their investment potentials in the state.

According to him, Jigawa is not only peaceful, it has acquired the needed infrastructure and resources capable of boosting business and enterprises.

Obasanjo described Jigawa state as the most investorfriendly in the country, citing stable security, peace and huge presence of needed infrastructure as his reasons.

Obasanjo said the problem of the country’s leadership is, “that of unmet expectations stressing that governments must invest in the people’s education to overcome poverty, redundancy and criminalities.

He explained that good gov-

ernance is key for any practical and factual economic development plan, “the government is not expected to invest directly, but to provide enabling environment for private investors to exploit.

“The way Sule Lamido has revitalised the Jigawa State education sector, adequate provision of good roads network, infrastructure, social security, free trade - has now made the state to be a haven for investors, and to the best of my knowledge, today there is nowhere in Nigeria where investors can have confidence in doing business that is greater than Jigawa State.

“I am optimistic that, this summit would help in making out long-term economic plan that would lead to the successful economic development that would be translated into the increase of employment,

wealth creation, poverty reduction and improve the well-being of the people of the state and Nigeria” Lamido recalled his inaugural speech six years ago. He said: “As you all might be aware, our state manifests the worst indices of underdevelopment.

“It was the electioneering campaign tour that exposed me to the problems of our people in that most pathetic degree.

The tour brought me face to face with the uniquely unmitigated case of underdevelopment called Jigawa state”, he said.

The governor observed that as he settled down in office, he discovered that the elite in the state were living in a world of their own that ensured total disconnect with the ordinary citizens He said his resolve to run the government best practices in

governance has helped to liberate the state from the pains and agony of underdevelopment.

He said: “Today, we want to announce to the whole world with all the noise we can muster that we are ready and our doors are now open to take Jigawa to the next level”.

Chairman of the summit Lord Paul Boateng, said he has the conviction that the state can become a ‘Super Eagle’ in the economic world.

“Nigeria is Africa’s biggest direction for foreign investment”, he said, warning that “we must also need to recognise that Africa is the father of its own progress”.

In her vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Commerce, Hajiya Hauwa Sulaiman Baffa, thanked Diamond Bank among others for supporting the summit.

Tambuwal warns against undemocratic traits

Continued from page 6

ensuring that we do not lower the standards and thereby destroying our democracy”.

He reminded the political actors and, indeed, all Nigerians that democracy has such essential elements as liberty and freedom and urged “all actors, particularly those of us who have been given the mandate and responsibility to lead and govern this country to continue to behave democratically”.

And looking forward to the next round of elections in two years time, the Speaker remarked that “as we are building up towards 2015, I know that people are getting interested, some to continue to maintain their positions and some would be struggling to get elected, but then it is only when we have democracy in place that anybody can be reelected or anybody can be elected. We, therefore, need to be more cautious.”

He praised the steadfastness

of the military and other security agncies in their support of and safeguard for this democracy but warned that “ we must not overstretch our goodwill”.

Tambuwal paid tribute to leaders living and dead, who toiled to lay the foundation for “what we are enjoying today in terms of democracy .

“I pay tribute to them and in particular those of them who lost their lives in the struggle for us to enjoy democracy in Nigeria.”

An indigene of Sokoto State,

the speaker praised the state government for bringing the dividends of democracy to the people in the past six years and urged more support for Governor Aliyu Wamakko from the people to enable the administration do more.

Earlier, in his address at the Democracy Day rally, Wamakko reeled out the achievements of his administration which cut across education, health, roads, and other social infrastructure.

He pledged to do more.

Fed govt gives self pass mark

•Dr. Jonathan Continued from page 6

gle Account (TSA), she said, the government’s overdrawn position has dropped from N102 billion in 2011 to N19 billion in 2012.

To prevent corruption in the various pension schemes, she said: “All the pension schemes are now coming under one roof to check abuses.”

From the Subsidy Re-Investment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), she said in 2012, the Federal Government got N180 billion, states - N154 billion and local governments - N76 billion for various projects.

While stating that Nigeria has become the highest destination for investment, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala noted that 22 airports were being refurbished simultaneously.

On power and water, she said: “There have been tangible improvements in our power sector. The privatisation that is going on now, will at the end boost the power sector. Seven water projects have been completed across the country.”

Giving an overview of the Transformation Agenda of the government, the Minister of National Planning, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, said: “Mr. President is actually setting a record in Nigeria.

He is raising the bar.”

According to him, about eight of the 14 key objectives set by the administration in 2011 have been achieved by the government.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator Anyim Pius Anyim said the government should not only be assessed by the physical infrasructure in place now but that there are many intangible achievements that have been recorded in the past two years.

Stressing that there have been stability and no interference with the legislature, he pointed out that INEC had been receiving great funds towards procuring permanent electoral materials, like permanent voters’ cards, among other things.

“We have recorded some progress, but a lot is yet to be achieved,” he said.

The Founder/President of Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Right Rev. Jackson, warned that winning elections is not what matters, but the transformation carried out by the government.

He noted that Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa.

He said as the most populous black nation on earth, the entire black race expects much from Nigeria.

The chairman of the African Peer Review Mechanism

and former President of the Interim Government of National Unity of Liberia, Prof.

Amos Sawyer said that Nigeria is demonstrating the best practice of APRM. Other dignitaries at the occasion included: First Lady Dame Patience, Senate President David Mark, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mariam Aloma-Mukhtar.

There governors, Service chiefs, traditional rulers and students.

ANPP National Financial Secretary, Alhaja Fatima Muhammed said on the telephone last night that the PDP should be prepared to leave office after the 2015 elections when the All Progressives Congress (APC) will take over.

“Why will Jonathan say that he has performed with the security challenge in the country. We want change and that we will get in 2015.

Jonathan should get ready to hand over power to the APC. No matter his plans to remain in power beyond 2015, Nigerians are tired of his regime. He is deceiving himself.

“Nigerians are aware of all the happenings in the country and only an APC government will solve the problems. I do not know what is giving Jonathan the confidence that he has performed in the last two years. His party members should advise him on what to do.

“Things have got worse compared to when Jonathan got into power. I am not saying that he should be impeached, all I know is that by 2015, the country will be singing another song of victory. The PDP government has ruled for 14 years without improvement in lives of the people. Nigerians are not enjoying the dividends of democracy.”

Responding to the midterm report last night, Lagos lawyer, Bamidele Aturu said: “People must understand that democracy is for us to stand up and demand what is right. This mid-term report that Jonathan is giving is his own idea of setting the exam and giving himself marks.

“It is only a very funny student that would set exams for himself and give himself marks. To even give a midterm report today is a sign of un seriousness from the Federal Government, you don’t mark yourself, let the people asses you. When you begin to asses yourself, then there is a fundamental problem.

“I am not saying this for Jonathan alone; I say it for all the leaders, even down to the local governments. Our leaders have failed us.

“My take on this is this: If you say you have achieved and Nigerians are not seeing your achievements who are you achieving for? This is a made up achievement, there is no doubt there are no achievements here. If he says he will shock us with his achievements we cannot be shocked again. What I want to say is this; our leaders have failed us, not just the President but leadership at all level. There is no development.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

9

NEWS ‘Ex-Oyo governors insincere’ From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

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HE General Overseer of the Save and Serve Christ Family Church in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Bishop Jide Orire, yesterday said Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s performance in two years has “exposed past governors as insincere”.

He said they should be probed.

Bishop Orire said many people were surprised to witness the dualisation of major roads, construction of bridges and beautification of the city within a short time.

He spoke in Ibadan during the consecration of Rev. Columba Niboro as a Bishop.

The cleric hailed Ajimobi on road projects, saying they have eased traffic.

He said: “If Ajimobi can embark on projects that cost billions of naira, then he is a focused leader. He has the people’s interest at heart. The people should begin to ask past governors what they did with the state’s fund.”

Bishop Orire wondered where Ajimobi got the billions of naira he is spending on projects, saying: “So our previous leaders had been depriving the masses of good infrastructure, which we ought to have been enjoying since.”

On the declaration of a state of emergency in three states to curb the activities of the Boko Haram sect, he said emergency rule was not the solution to insecurity.

Bishop Orire there was nothing like Boko Haram. He said we are our own enemies, adding that some of our leaders are behind most of the crises in the nation.

The cleric said: “Our leaders are greedy and not interested in the welfare of the populace. They are only interested in themselves and their family. They have forgotten that the money they are spending is tax-payer’s money, which is meant for everybody.”

Southwest PDP strategises

By Musa Odoshimokhe

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HE Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) National Vice-Chairman, Southwest, Chief Ishola Filani, has said the party will identify its challenges in the zone and formulate strategies to overcome them.

Addressing party supporters yesterday at a rally marking the Democracy Day at the Freedom Park in Ojota, Lagos, Filani said efforts were ongoing to reconcile aggrieved members.

He said: “We have talked to the widest spectrum of leaders and sent teams to the six states in the zone to collate the peculiar problems of each state and identify critical factors of conflicts and factionalisation.”

Filani said the Southwest PDP Caretaker Committee was focusing on the reorganisation and re-activation of the party’s organs.

He said: “It is our desire to make the party more cohesive and efficient in pursuing its goals, which include attracting the majority of the people to its fold in the competitive democratic environment.

“This calls for massive mobilisation drive and a focused campaign. We must bring the PDP to every door step and every home in the Southwest.”

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi (second right) greeting members of the Landlords’ and Tenants’ Association after a Town Hall meeting in Ado-Ekiti...on Tuesday.

T

Catholic bishop slams PDP on Amaechi’s suspension

HE Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Rev. Felix Ajakaye, has condemned the suspension of Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The PDP National Working Committee (NWC) suspended Amaechi on Monday for what it described as “his refusal to obey lawful directives from the Rivers State chapter of the PDP”.

In a statement yesterday, entitled: ‘NGF elections-between 19 governors and 16 governors, 16 claiming majority’, Bishop Ajakaye described the suspension as a “practical example of the poli-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

tics of terrorism and rascality”.

He said PDP was wrong for treating the governor as it did, adding that “Amaechi has the fundamental right to seek reelection as chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).”

The cleric said: “Some politicians want to bring the country to ruins through man made crises.

Amaechi has been suspended for his courage, popularity among his peers and for winning an election. Is this the way to

celebrate democracy in Nigeria?

“This is a practical example of the politics of terrorism and rascality.

They claimed there was irregularity prior to the election, were they coerced to participate in the poll?

“They said Amaechi refused to dissolve the house and allow a neutral body to conduct the poll.

Were the 16 governors hypnotised to vote only to regain their consciousness after the poll?

“The public statements of Jang’s group show that it is pro-Jonathan and the

members are bent on scattering the NGF by claiming that their candidate won an election where 35 people voted and they had 16 as against Amaechi’s 19.

“Now, 16 has become the majority and 19 the minority. This type of thing can only happen in Nigeria. Indeed, this is a crisis of credibility. What legacy are we bequeathing to our children, whose special day was May 27?

“Jang is even being congratulated on the pages of the newspapers. He is being ‘celebrated’ and he even organised a thanksgiving service to celebrate

•Bishop Ajakaye

his ‘victory’. Nigeria and Nigerians! We should learn to face reality, rather than chase shadows.”

Councils, NURTW endorse Aregbesola for second term

M

EMBERS of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Osogbo Local Government Area of Osun State and the National Union of Road Transportat Workers (NURTW) in the council have endorsed Governor Rauf Aregbesola and his deputy, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori, for a second term.

They said the Aregbesola administration has improved all sectors of the economy.

They spoke at the Railway Terminus in Osogbo, the state capital, during a meeting of ACN members in the council.

The meeting was attended

by Mrs. Laoye-Tomori; House of Assembly Deputy Speaker Akintunde Adegboye; Commissioner for Special Duties and Regional Integration Ajibola Basiru and Alhaji Fatai Diekola.

Basiru urged members to remain united and be good ambassadors of the party, adding that these would attract opposition members to the ACN. NURTW members from Oke-fia Motor Park, Osogbo, flocked the venue of the meeting, carrying banners with the inscription: “We are ready to give our full support to your government”.

Group hails governor on Oodua Children’s Day

A

GROUP, the Ijesa Youth Development Association (IYDA), yesterday hailed Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola on the success of the Oodua World Children’s Day. In a statement in Akure, the Ondo State capital, by its Chairman, Mr. Tayo Oluwagbaye; Co-ordinator Olusayo Ogunleye and Publicity Secretary Faseyi Boluwaji, IYDA said the event showed Aregbesola’s deep understanding of the Yoruba culture and tradition.

The group congratulated the governor on his 56th birthday and prayed God to give him the strength to continue to develop the state.

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

ACN members in Osun West Senatorial District also endorsed Aregbesola for a second term.

At a meeting held at the District Council Primary School, Iwo, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, moved a motion for Aregbesola’s endorsement for a second term.

It was seconded by the ACN’s Southwest Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ayo Afolabi.

In attendance were Senator Mudasir Hussein (Osun Central); House of Assembly Speaker Najeem Salam; Hon. Ghafar Amere (Iwo/Ayedire/Olaoluwa Federal Constituency); Assistant Chief of Staff Mudasir Togun; Chief

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

It hailed the administration for maintaining peace in Osun, “as against the recent past when banditry was the order of the day”.

IYDA said the achievements of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) administration in the last two years were pointers to the populist programmes of the progressive party.

It said the ongoing merger of three parties into the All Progressives Congress (APC) would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

The group urged the people to support the Aregbesola administration.

Isola Oyewumi and the secretaries of the 10 councils in the district.

People from the 10 councils were also present.

Adeoti said: “Aregbesola has distinguished himself as a leader and governor of the people. His achievements within a short period of time are too numerous to count.

The people of this senatorial district know the governor’s worth.

“They are feeling the presence of the government and the natural thing to do is to support the working governor. That is what the people converged here to do.”

Salaam said: “Aregbesola’s performance is visible to everybody. The people are gathered here to give the

governor the go-ahead to continue the good work he is doing.”

Also in Olorunda Local Government, ACN members endorsed Aregbesola for a second term.

They said it would enable him continue his “path breaking programmes”.

They said the governor has transformed the state and should be allowed to continue the good work.

In a statement after a rally at the Osogbo City Hall, signed by the Council Party Chairman, Mr. Abiodun Kilanko; Chairman, Elders Forum, Pa Samuel Oladepo; Mr. Adebayo Wasiu (Olorunda State Constituency) and the Secretary, Mr. Akeem Okunade, ACN members

said: “We appreciate the efforts of a visionary, God fearing and fantastic leader, whose mountain of achievements has transformed the state into a safe haven for investors.

“ACN members in Olorunda unanimously endorse Aregbesola for a second term as the governor of Osun State.

We are proud of his performance in two years, with the engagement of 40,000 youths under the Osun Youth Employment Scheme (OYES) and his free medical missions.”

Praising the governor’s agricultural intervention programmes and road projects, Kilanko said: “The unimaginable transformation going on in various cities, such as Osogbo, Ilesha, Ile-Ife, Ikinrun, Ejigbo, Ede, Ila-Orangun and Iwo, is a pleasant surprise to the people. All these would not have been possible, but for the effective management of resources and prudency of the governor.”

Also at the rally were Alhaji Fatai Diekola; Alhaji Mufutau Oladapo; Mr. Johnson Koledowo; Mr. Sola Oladepo; Mr. Yisa Ojewale; Mr. Taiwo Sunmonu; Mr. Olaide Ajibola and Mr. Rasaq Adeosun, among others.

All ward chairmen, women and youth leaders and the NURTW leadership were in attendance.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

10

NEWS

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (fourth left); his deputy, Prince Segun Adesegun (third left); Chairman, Judicial Commission of Enquiry on Ado-Odo Crisis, Justice Elizabeth Osinuga (fourth right); the Chief Judge, Justice Olatokunbo Olopade (third right); the Commission’s Secretary, Mr. Abiodun Oluseye (right); Mr. Olumuyiwa Ojo (second right); Mr. Idowu Adegbite (left) and Mr. Jide Oyenuga after the panel’s inauguration at the Governor’s Office, Abeokuta...on Tuesday.

T

‘No plan to locate poly in Ondo’

HE Ondo State Government yesterday said it had no plan to establish any polytechnic.

It also said the Federal Government had no such plan.

It debunked the rumour that a polytechnic proposed to be located in Ile Oluji had been relocated to Idanre.

The rumour led to protests in Ile Oluji on Monday and Tuesday.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Mr. Eni Akinsola, said: “The state is not contemplating a new polytechnic now. It is busy re-

•Mimiko raises panel on Ile-Oluji crisis From Damisi Ojo, Akure

positioning its two universities in Okitipupa and Akungba and the polytechnic in Owo. “We have also found out that the Federal Government has also not decided on citing any higher institution in the state. We are therefore shocked to hear that the crisis is linked to a rumoured relocation of a polytechnic from IleOluji.

“Not only is the information false, it is dangerous, as it suggested that the

polytechnic had been relocated to Idanre, a reality that could have stoked inter-communal crisis.”

Akinsola urged residents to always confirm the authenticity of any information before taking action.

“We cannot, as a society, depend on rumours and unsubstantiated allegations for our actions,” he added.

The government has set up a judicial commission of enquiry to look into the remote and immediate causes of the crisis.

It is headed by Justice

‘Aregbesola, reference point in good governance’ O

SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has been described as a reference point in good governance and progressive politics.

Former University of Lagos (UNILAG) Students’ Union Leader Olusegun Mayegun said this at the launch of a book entitled: “Rauf: Hero of the People”, in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The book was written by Mayegun and Abosede Kalejaiye.

Mayegun said Aregbesola has paid attention to issues affecting the downtrodden in the society.

He said: “There has been no looking back for Aregbesola since he joined politics in

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

the late 70s as a progressive students’ union leader. His entry into politics opened for him a flood gate of linkages and contacts, with a broad spectrum of progressive politicians, opinion leaders, social workers, market leaders, professional organisations and other social movements across the country.

“It is not surprising that through his political foray, Aregbesola has established a robust working relationship with leaders like Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who pro-

vided eight years of quality leadership in Lagos State.”

The book reviewer, Mr. Chijioke Uwasomba of the English Department, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, said the book explains the character of Aregbesola through the eyes of children and the younger generation.

He said the Nigerian society has been hijacked by decadent and corrupt forces, such that cynicism and despair have become the order of the day.

Uwasomba said since Aregbesola’s character was a deviation from the decadent leadership, it was imperative

EKSU alumni back no-fee-no-lecture rule

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The Alumni Association of the Ekiti State University (EKSU) has supported the institution’s no-fee-no-lecture rule.

It said the rule would facilitate development in the university.

The Association’s National President, Mr. Bola Ogunlayi, spoke with reporters in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, while inaugurating three committees, including the constitution review committee.

Ogunlayi said: “The ViceChancellor (VC) has drawn his master plan for the varsity’s development. He knows what he wants and

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

how he intends to achieve this. Whoever opposes him on such a simple rule is opposing his plans for the institution’s progress.

“When we were here as students, we never had issues with paying school fees. Then, the university gave students a few weeks of grace, after which whoever failed to meet the deadline paid additional sum for lateness.”

On the association’s plan to review its constitution, Ogunlayi said: “The decision would introduce fresh-

ness into how the association is run. Areas, such as the status of graduates who underwent part-time programmes, those who did diploma programmes, the zoning of elective posts in the association, the delegate system to elect its leaders, verification and mobilisation of state chapters would be reviewed in light of current realities.

Prof. Sunday Asaolu, who chairs the Constitution Review Committee, said “the committee would come up with a constitution that would address the identified issues.”

Nelson Adeyanju. The members include Mr. Ajose Kudehinbu, Chief Olugbenga Ale and Mr. Fredrick Oye, the secretary.

The panel is to identify those involved in the crisis; the extent of their involvement; recommend sanctions and ascertain the damage done by the protesters, among others.

The governor will inaugurate the commission today at the Cocoa Conference Hall in Alagbaka, Akure. It is expected to submit its report 14 days from its first sitting.

Oyo recruits 300 doctors Distributes 2.7m mosquito nets

T

HE Oyo State Government has completed

interviews for the recruitment of 300 doctors in public hospitals.

The Commissioner for Health, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, announced this while reviewing the ministry’s performance.

Gbadegesin said the government was determined to address the shortage of health workers in public hospitals.

He said the ministry had distributed 2.7 million mosquito-treated nets to residents, adding that it had reduced cases of malaria by eight per cent. The commissioner said the number of malaria cases reduced from 250,000 in 2011 to 230,000 last year.

He said 300,000 packs of Artemisin Combination Therapies (ACT), a malaria drug, were distributed to

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

state health facilities.

Gbadegesin said 80,000 Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits were distributed to state hospitals.

He said 34 ambulances were distributed and four shelters built for accident victims on the highways.

The commissioner said the shelters are located at strategic places in Ibadan, adding that they would be replicated across the state.

He said 60 ambulance service workers were trained, a Control Room was set up and toll-free emergency lines established to enable people in distress reach the free ambulance service.

Gbadegesin said 135 cases had been handled by the ambulance service since its inception three months ago.

He said the government would double its efforts to improve public health.

Pay Ondo council workers, teachers, ACN elders tell Mimiko

T •Aregbesola

to celebrate and document his achievements for youths, who are future leaders, so that they would emulate the governor’s virtues.

HE Elders’ Forum of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State yesterday urged the state government to pay the salary arrears of local government workers and primary school teachers.

It said three months were enough to complete any verification, adding that the workers should be paid with-

Amosun to inspect projects

O

OGUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun will on Tuesday begin an inspection tour of ongoing projects.

This is part of activities marking the mid-term of his administration.

On Tuesday, the governor answered questions from residents during a live television programme, Agbaletu, on the Ogun State Television (OGTV).

In a state-wide radio and television broadcast yesterday, he gave a mid-term report of his administration’s activities.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, said during the tour, stakeholders from different senatorial districts would join the governor and top members of the administration to inspect the projects.

The tour will begin in Ogun West, going through Ayetoro, Olodo, Imeko, Ilara, Tompolo, Ijoun, Tata, Egua, Ilaro, IloAwela and Ado Odo. On Wednesday, it will move to Ogun East, going through Isara, Ilishan, Ago-Iwoye, Itele, Ijebu-Ode, Mobalufon, Oke Ako, Ikenne and Sagamu.

It will end on Thursday in Ogun Central, where the governor will go round Mowe, Ibafo, Magboro, Isheri and Abeokuta.

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

out further delay.

In a statement after its meeting in Akure, the state capital, signed by its Secretary, Dr. K. B. Shaba, the forum called for the recall of 6,000 workers that were sacked recently by the state government.

It said despite the huge amount accruing to the state monthly, particularly in March when the government reportedly received N9.6 bllion, there was nothing to show for it.

The forum urged the government to start executing capital projects in this year’s budget to facilitate development.

It said: “As we are awaiting justice at the Court of Appeal, we urge residents and our party loyalists to remain calm and law abiding.

“We pledge our unflinching loyalty to the ACN’s governorship candidate, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and affirm him as the state leader of the party.

The forum hailed the ACN’s national leadership for its role in the merger of progressive parties to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

11

NEWS

AU Summit: presidency, CPC trade words •Jonathan’s spokesman, CPC publicity secretary engage in tirade From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation, Abuja

•Jonathan

T

HE presidency yesterday joined issues with the Congress for Progressive Change(CPC) over the conduct of President Goodluck Jonathan at the just-concluded African Union Summit in Ethiopia.

The CPC had criticised Jonathan for missing the opportunity to address the AU Summit, which was meant to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the union.

But the presidency, in a statement through its Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, critisised CPC’s position.

Abati said: “President Jonathan as the leader of the Nigerian delegation to the AU summit in Addis Ababa and the 50th anniversary of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) indeed put up a sterling performance, using the opportunity of the trip to further promote Nigeria’s interests and to strengthen Nigeria’s relationships with other countries.

“He held bilateral meetings with the UN Secretary General and the leaders of Jamaica, Egypt, Swaziland, Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire. He granted interviews to the media, local and international. He also participated in a special session on HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, at which he invited other world leaders to the Abuja+12 conference to be hosted in Nigeria, mid-June.

“President Jonathan is an accomplished diplomat and a responsible leader under whose watch, Nigeria’s foreign policy process and international rela-

tions have been strengthened with commendable results.

“No slot was missed because no country was under any compulsion to speak. Any country that wished to make a statement indicated the interest to do so, by pressing the button at its own convenience.

“Nigeria had indicated an interest to speak, but the President needed to attend an urgent ECOWAS meeting on the Lagos-Abidjan Highway, to be attended by five West African countries, to take a report by the Nigerian Minister of Works who is the chair of the regional inter-Ministerial body on the proposed Lagos-Abidjan Highway. I have since circulated the conclusions of that meeting.

“While President Jonathan was attending that meeting, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, the Minister of Foreign Affairs presented our statement to the OAU at 50 on President Jonathan’s behalf. I have also since circulated the full text of that statement. “ In other words, Nigeria’s voice was heard, loud and clear.

Let it be noted that President Jonathan’s attendance of a meeting on the sidelines of the AU Summit was perfectly in order, and he attended quite a number, just as Minister Olugbenga Ashiru was not the only Foreign Affairs Minister who spoke on behalf of a President at the Summit. So, where did CPC spokesman, Rotimi Fashakin get his information from that nobody represented Nigeria?

“In this attempt to pull President Jonathan down at all costs, lies have become standard stuff, mischief a major commodity, and indecency a character flaw.

President Jonathan does not owe anyone an apology for serving Nigeria diligently and truthfully.

“By the same token, I consider the reference to Governor Rotimi Amaechi and the Nige-

No more room for impunity in education sector, says ICPC chair

I

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

NDEPENDENT Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) chair Ekpo Nta has vowed to deal with impunity in education sector.

He also said the National Value Curriculum (NVC) was designed to expose the Nigerian child to a valued-based curriculum that ‘incorporates ethical values into academic studies from the early years to young adulthood’.

According to a statement by the agency’s Head of Media, Mr. Folu Olamiti, the ICPC chairman made the declaration on Tuesday in Abuja at the presentation of ‘Teacher’s Guide for the National Values in Basic Education.

Nta said: “I will treat impunity with impunity. We will no longer condone corruption in the Education sector.

“The curriculum has been infused into subjects and courses at basic, post-basic and teacher education levels. It has also been infused into the curriculum of mass literacy and non- formal education’ he said.

“There is the need for teachers to be trained and properly oriented on the methodology and behavioural imperatives for imparting the values.

“We, therefore, request commissioners for education and chairmen SUBEB to organise more copies of the teachers’ guide such that every school in the education system in each state is given enough copies for the use of teachers,” he urged.

“Also speaking at the occasion through Julius Ameh, the Minister of Education, Prof. Ruquayyatu Ahmed Rufai, said: “Nobody, no matter how highly placed will be allowed to get away with the breach of the law or perpetration of corruption in our colleges and tertiary institutions”.

Prof. Rufai said the 16,000 UTME results that were cancelled in the last UTME exercise was as a result of corrupt practices and other offences on the part of candidates.

The Minister said there would be no sacred cows, as the ministry works for the betterment of the education system.

“We shall be resolute in our decisions as there shall be no sacred cows. Nobody, no matter how highly placed will be allowed to get away with the breach of the law or perpetration of corruption and evil in our colleges and tertiary institutions”, she said.

ria Governors’ Forum in that statement as a red herring.

Again, I advise Fashakin to read the newspapers so he can be abreast of developments, the only way he can get close to being an effective spokesperson. I had made it clear that President Jonathan has no hand in the Governors Forum crisis, and we stand by that position.

But CPC’s National Publicity Secretary Fashakin, said the party was surprised that Abati’s response was laced with vile verbiage In a statement in Abuja, CPC spokesman said: “The Presidential spokesman, Reuben Abati, responded to the observation raised by the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) on the just-concluded African Union (AU) summit in Addis

Ababa, Ethiopia, with such unmitigated incivility that easily evinces the pressure currently enveloping the entire apparatus of the Presidency.

He said: “I invite the discerning Nigerian public to come along as we sift the facts in the story as told by Abati the battered hireling.

“President Jonathan, as head of the Nigerian delegation, left the country for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to attend the AU summit. In diplomatic arena, that was the primary objective of the delegation. This presupposes that any other business is secondary! Furthermore, Dr Jonathan indicated to address the summit, and was permitted.

“But he, in his wisdom, believed other matters were more

important than the primary objective of being in AddisAbaba. Obviously, this line of logic showed Abati …is obviously hiding the vital truth from Nigerians.

“Not done, he went on to say that the Minister for Foreign Affairs presented the President’s statement at the summit. We shudder to think that all the Nigerian tax payers’ funds used in paying the humongous estacodes for Reuben Abati and his colleagues on the President’s entourage was for mere submission of a statement after the summit!

“He further asserted that Jonathan was not the only President that was represented by the country’s foreign minister. Again, the poor spinning skills of Abati came to fore. We

know Dr. Samura Matthew Wilson Kamara, Sierra Leone’s foreign minister, represented his President, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, who was unavoidably absent at the summit. Abati failed to tell us the other foreign ministers, aside Nigeria’s, that represented Presidents who were physically present for the AU summit!

“If we may ask: is submission of a statement by a foreign minister after a conference coterminous with the President, using the stage, to articulate the nation’s position on the regional discourse?

“The entire hog-wash Abati chose to call a State-House press statement aptly underscored the incompetence that has become the trade mark of the Jonathan presidency!”

BUSINESS

12

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013 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

No Due Process Certification for airport contract, says BPP T

HE Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has not received any notification from the Ministry of Aviation regarding the planned management of airports in the country.

BPP’s Director-General, Emeka Ezeh, said the planned take over and management of the nation’s airports by a Chinese firm, Fraport, “is still at the level of concept development.”

He told The Nation that “when fully articulated, it will be advertised before it gets to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) after all evaluation by the BPP and the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC).”

From Nduka Chiejina, (Asst. Editor)

He denied knowledge of a letter to that effect before the President.

When asked if the BPP was aware that a formal letter had been sent to President Goodluck Jonathan to approve the appointment of the Chinese firm, Ezeh said he was aware that there is a letter with the President for an approval in principle for a firm to manage the airports.

Ezeh did not state if the expected approval in prin-

ciple will be for the Chinese firm, or a different company from another country.

The Ministry of Aviation has been criticised for not following due process in the selection of a Chinese firm to manage airports in the country.

Due Process Certification is required from the BPP for large contracts of this nature before it goes to the President and the FEC for final approval.

Since it is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement for the management of a public infrastructure,

• From left: Managing Director, Wapic Insurance Plc; Segun Balogun, Chairman, Wapic Insurance Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, and Company Secretary, Mary Agha, at the Completion Board Meeting of Wapic Insurance Plc, in Lagos.

Commissioner cautions youths on internet usage

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AGOS State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Fatai Mabadeje, has described the internet as a double-edged sword that must be aprroached with caution. He therefore cautioned youths to be careful of releasing their details and those of their parents to ‘strangers.’

He said the need to pass this meassage to the young ones explained why the government orgnaised a forum for students in both secondary and primary schools to sensitise them about the dangers lurking around the use of the internet.

Mabadaje, who spoke in an interview with The Nation in Lagos at the forum with the theme: Combating Youth Danger in the Digital World, said the state government is aware of the growing application of ICT to knowledge acquisition. He added that there is a need for the government to step in and also create awareness that there

By Lucas Ajanaku

are also dangers in giving information to people that they don’t know on the cyber space.

“The reason we are here is in line with the theme of the seminar, which is ‘Combating Youth Danger in the Digital World’. There is a lot more usage of the internet by teenagers from primary school up to junior secondary schools.

This collaboration therefore is to create awareness among all level of students, including those in tertiary institutions on the safe way of using the internet. The internet is a very good tool, but if not properly used, it could endanger their lives. The internet is good for the student for research and studies but there are rules governing its usage and that is what we are preaching,” he said.

According to him, the policy of the state government is to improve the standard of education in the state. He added that the Science and Technology minsitry is particularly

interested in children because they are more susceptible to dangers.

“The Lagos State policy is to drive and improve education and we at the Ministry (of Science and Technolgy) are particular about young children hence our focus is on children, and more so because children are susceptible to dangers. We start from the grass root to create such awareness, and we are teaching them not to talk to strangers online, and to avoid pitfalls while using the internet.

Some of the internet challenges are identity theft, kidnapping, killing, and we are creating the awareness among students,” he added.

Chief Executive, FB Initiative and Innovations, Funke Babatola, the firm that partnered the state government on the programme, also explained that it is in the project because there are a lot of young people in both the primary and secondary schools.

the ICRC is also expected to make contributions and recommendation before it goes to FEC. The Nation had exclusively reported on Monday that the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, is seeking Presidential approval to hand over the management of infrastructure in the country’s airports to a Chinese firm.

This was contained in a memo dated April 4th, 2013, which the Minister sent to President Goodluck Jonathan, entitled, ‘Proposed management structure for international airports and perishable terminal in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

Princess Oduah, identified Fraport AG Airport Services Worldwide (FRAPORT), a Chinese firm, which it described as “a reputable international airport operator,” as the preferred firm to get the contract.

Before the approval is granted, the memo said that the Ministry of Aviation has already entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FRAPORT for potential cooperation in airport operations, management and development of airport related services.

The memo reads in part: “Federal Ministry of Aviation has embarked upon the extensive remodeling

and reconstruction of 11 domestic and international airport across the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Furthermore, the Ministry and FARPORT have agreed to consider the provision of much needed training to employees of FAAN in order to deepen local capacity and ensure on-the-job transfer of management expertise in a thorough and sustainable manner.

“It is proposed that FRAPORT will provide its services in collaboration with local private companies to further ensure the effective transfer of their specialist management skills, work ethics and technology to capable Nigerians firms.

“It is also proposed that FRAPORT will receive management fees as a negotiated percentage of revenue derived from the airports and terminals under management.”

All other terms of their engagement will be contained in a carefully negotiated management contract, “with the expectation that in the not too distant future, our local Nigerian companies and expertly re-trained FAAN staff will eventually take over management of our airport facilities to same international standards set by FRAPORT,” the statement added.

LNG price drops as demand weakness

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IQUEFIED natural gas prices for delivery to Northeast Asia dropped this week on “subdued” summer demand even as a disruption to Nigerian exports tightened supplies, according to Energy Intelligence Group.

Spot cargoes for delivery over the next four to eight weeks were at $14.30 per million British thermal units, down from $14.35 per million Btu in the period ended May 20, the research company said on the website of its World Gas Intelligence publication. The price in Southwest Europe was unchanged at $11.50 from last week, according to WGI. Asian LNG buyers typically pay more in the months before, and during the northern-hemisphere summer from June through August as demand for air conditioning increases the region’s power requirements.

Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, Africa’s largest exporter of the fuel, said it declared force majeure this month after Royal Dutch Shell Plc (RDSA) discovered a pipeline leak and halted deliveries. Force majeure is a legal clause that protects a company from liability when it can’t fulfill a contract for reasons beyond its control.

Shell shut its Gbaran, Ubie, and Soku gas facility after the pipeline leak cut supplies by half, Kudo EresiaEke, an Abuja-based spokesman for Nigeria LNG, said last week in an e-mail.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

13

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

14

FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO, ANAMBRA STATE P.M. B. 021, AGUATA

OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR 2013/2014 ADMISSION TO FULL - TIME HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA (HND) PROGRAMME OF THE POLYTECHNIC (Two Years Duration).

Applications are invited from eligible candidates into the under-listed full-time Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, for the 2013/2014 Academic Session: A.

SCHOOL OF ARTS, DESIGN & PRINTING TECHNOLOGY a.

Fine & Applied Arts with options in: i.

Ceramics ii.

Graphics iii.

Painting iv.

Sculpture v.

Textiles b. c.

B.

C.

D.

Fashion Design & Clothing Technology Printing Technology

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS STUDIES a.

Business Administration & Management b.

Marketing c.

Public Administration d.

Office Technology & Management SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY a.

Civil Engineering b.

Computer Engineering c.

Electrical/Electronics Engineering SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY a.

Architectural Technology b.

Building Technology c.

Estate Management d.

Quantity Surveying e.

Urban & Regional Planning f.

Surveying & Geo-Informatics

E.

SCHOOL OF FINANCIAL STUDIES a.

Accountancy b.

Banking & Finance

F.

SCHOOL OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY a.

Library & information Science b.

Mass Communication

G.

SCHOOL OF APPLIED SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY a.

Computer Science b.

Maths/Statistics c.

Home & Rural Economics d.

Science Laboratory Technology with options in: i.

Biology ii. iii.

Chemistry iv. v.

Physics with Electronics

2013/2014 ADMISSION TO PART-TIME (EVENING PROGRAMME) NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND) AND HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA (HND) PROGRAMMES OF THE POLYTECHNIC (Two Years Duration Each) Applications are invited from eligible candidates into the under-listed full-time Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, for the 2013/2014 Academic Session: A.

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS STUDIES a.

Business Administration & Management b.

Marketing c.

Public Administration d.

Office Technology & Management

B.

SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY a.

Estate Management b.

Urban & Regional Planning (ND only)

C.

SCHOOL OF FINANCIAL STUDIES a.

Accountancy b.

Banking & Finance c.

Insurance (ND only)

D.

SCHOOL OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY a.

Library & information Science b.

Mass Communication

E.

SCHOOL OF APPLIED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY a.

Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) b.

Computer Science c.

Food Science and Technology

F.

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY a.

Electrical Electronic

G.

SCHOOL OF ARTS, DESIGN AND PRINTING TECHNOLOGY a.

Fine and Applied Arts.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 1. Applicants to the ND programmes must possess at least five (5) credits in the O Level WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB including English Language and Mathematics at not more than two sittings except in Urban &Regional Planning where, at least, a pass in English Language is required.

Biology/Microbiology Microbiology

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Candidates must possess: 1. The basic requirements for admission to the ND programmes of the course they wish to pursue at the Higher National Diploma level as contained in the NBTE-revised entry requirements for ND programmes in Nigerian Polytechnics & Monotechnics.

2.

National Diploma, with a minimum of Lower Credit in the relevant programmes, obtained from Federal Polytechnic, Oko or an equivalent institution accredited by the National Board for Technical Education.

3.

Evidence of a minimum of one (1) year post-ND cognate work experience. In exceptional cases, ND diplomats with a pass (CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49) and industrial experience of not less than two (2) years in the specific field may be considered for admission into the HND programme.

METHOD OF APPLICATION Applicants are required to purchase an e-tranzact application pin from any branch of the underlisted banks nationwide for six thousand, five hundred naira only:i.

Access Bank Plc. ii.

Union Bank Plc iii.

Zenith Bank Plc iv.

Oko Microfinance Bank v.

EcoBank Plc vi.

First Bank Plc vii.

Isuofia Microfinance Bank viii.

First City Monument Bank Plc Applicants are required to log on to the school portal at www.federalpolyoko.edu.ng to fill and submit their applications online. The online acknowledgement slip together with three (3) recent passport photographs, two self-addressed and stamped envelopes, as well as photocopies of credentials must be returned in a large envelope to reach the Registrar (Admissions), not later than 31st August, 2013.

Applicants who are not ND graduates of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, are to apply to their institutions for forwarding of their Academic Transcripts to the Registrar (Admissions), quoting the Department the candidate is applying for. Applications from such applicants will not be processed until the transcripts are received.

2.

In addition to the above, applicants to the HND Programmes must possess a National Diploma with a minimum of Lower Credit in the relevant programmes obtained from Federal Polytechnic, Oko or an equivalent institution accredited by the National Board for Technical Education.

3.

Evident of a minimum of one (1) year post-ND cognate work experience. In exceptional cases, ND diplomats with a pass (CGPA of 2.00 – 2.49) and Industrial Experience of not less than two (2) years in the specific field may be considered for admission into the HND programme.

METHOD OF APPLICATION Applicants are required to purchase an e-tranzact application pin from any branch of the underlisted banks nationwide for six thousand, five hundred naira only:i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii.

Access Bank Plc. Union Bank Plc Zenith Bank Plc Oko Microfinance Bank EcoBank Plc. First Bank Plc. Isuofia Microfinance Bank First City Monument Bank Plc.

Applicants are required to log on to the school portal at www.federalpolyoko.edu.ng to fill and submit their applications online. The online acknowledgement slip together with three (3) recent passport photographs, two self-addressed and stamped envelopes, as well as photocopies of credentials must be returned in a large envelope to reach the Registrar (Evening Programme) not later than 31st August, 2013.

Applicants who are not ND graduates of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, are to apply to their institutions for forwarding of their Academic Transcripts to the Registrar (Evening Programme), quoting the Department the candidate is applying for. Applications from such applicants will not be processed until the transcripts are received.

Signed: TONY OLIH NWAOKOLOBIA Registrar

, 2013

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO, ANAMBRA STATE P.M. B. 021, AGUATA

OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR 2013/2014 ADMISSION TO PART-TIME (WEEKEND PROGRAMME) NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND) AND HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA (HND) PROGRAMMES OF THE POLYTECHNIC (Three Years Duration Each) Applications are invited from eligible candidates into the under-listed part-time National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, for the 2013/2014 Academic Session: A.

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS STUDIES a. Business Administration & Management b. Marketing c. Public Administration d. Office Technology & Management

B.

SCHOOL OF FINANCIAL STUDIES a. Accountancy b. Banking & Finance

C.

SCHOOL OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY a. Mass Communication b. Library and Information Science

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 1 Applicants to the ND programmes must possess at least five (5) credits in the O Level WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB including English Language and Mathematics at not more than two sittings except in Urban & Regional Planning where, at least, a pass in English Language is required.

2.

In addition to the above, applicants to the HND Programmes must possess a National Diploma with a minimum of Lower Credit in the relevant programmes obtained from Federal Polytechnic, Oko or an equivalent institution accredited by the National Board for Technical Education.

3.

Evidence of a minimum of one (1) year post-ND cognate work experience. In exceptional cases, ND diplomats with a pass (CGPA of 2.00 – 2.49) and Industrial Experience of not less than two (2) years in the specific field may be considered for admission into the HND programme.

METHOD OF APPLICATION Applicants are required to purchase an e-tranzact application pin from any branch of the under-listed banks nationwide for six thousand, five hundred naira only:i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii.

Access Bank Plc. Union Bank Plc. Zenith Bank Plc Oko Microfinance Bank EcoBank Plc. First Bank Plc. Isuofia Microfinance Bank First City Monument Bank Plc.

Applicants are required to log on to the school portal at www.federalpolyoko.edu.ng to fill and submit their applications online. The online acknowledgement slip together with three (3) recent passport photographs, two self-addressed and stamped envelopes, as well as photocopies of credentials must be returned in a large envelope to reach the Registrar (Evening Programme) not later than 31st August, 2013.

Applicants who are not ND graduates of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, are to apply to their institutions for forwarding of their Academic Transcripts to the Registrar (Evening Programme), quoting the Department the candidate is applying for.

Applications from such applicants will not be processed until the transcripts are received.

Signed: TONY OLIH NWAOKOLOBIA Registrar

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

Tax criminality • It is time to go after defaulters and tighten the noose on a leaky system

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HAT has long become a prevalent culture of corporate tax evasion has suddenly caught the attention of the Federal Government. From the blues, the government suddenly just realised that the practice of tax evasion by companies in the country is detrimental to the country’s interest.

Dr. Yerima Ngama, Minister of State for Finance, in his address at the opening ceremony of the African Tax Forum in Abuja bemoaned the shoddy state of tax system thus: “At the last count, about 350,000 companies have not rendered tax returns in the country. So, we need to strategise, we need to research and find out what can be done to improve tax rendition and tax collection.” How come it took the government this forum to wake up from its slumber to realise the importance of

‘The time for the government to stiffen the laws on tax evasion on erring companies and establishments is now. Tax evasion and avoidance by companies remain one of the greatest problems plaguing tax administration in Nigeria and it should not be allowed to derail her fiscal policies. This corporate criminality must stop’

taxation to national development?

The country’s low tax contribution of seven per cent to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio is saddening, especially when in neighbouring Ghana, tax contribution to the GDP ratio is about 21 per cent. Even in better managed but less endowed countries on the continent, tax contribution to GDP ratio is 10 per cent.

The nation can do better by discouraging difficult-to-monitor informal businesses that currently stand at 45 per cent and inspire formal business conducts widely respected for adoption of civilised accounting principles - renowned for compelling the making of tax returns necessary to calculate the tax liability of companies by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

Failure to render tax returns by companies has become a disgusting feature. Sometime ago, some leading foreign airlines operating in the country admitted to non-remittance of the five per cent Passenger Fuel Surcharge on their tickets to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) as required by global aviation practice. Also, the Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI) once reported that major multinational oil companies, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, habitually underpay taxes and statutory remittances due to the government. Even the House of Representatives recently identified several state enterprises that defaulted in filing tax returns.

The need for the country to shift focus

from oil revenue by making tax generation the ultimate objective of the economy is long overdue. Most governments across the world, even in countries that are equally blessed with oil are doing that successfully. Within the country too, Lagos, Ogun and Rivers states have proved to be good examples of how to deploy tax to achieve the goal of real development. The Lagos State Government has sued 20 companies operating within its jurisdiction for defaulting in tax payment. Why not the Federal Government, if only it can shed its toga of tax immoralities through questionable import duty waivers, among others.

Moreover, the leadership should curb its obscene practices. For instance, Nigerians would not easily forget how former President Olusegun Obasanjo, as a sitting president, used his influence to induce, in 2007, the donation of over N7 billion that was used to build his Presidential Library. Also, President Goodluck Jonathan turned the other way when a powerful company donated a N6 billion church in his ancestral village in Otuoke, Bayelsa State. Such self-serving presidential patronage is detrimental to a workable tax system.

The time for the government to stiffen the laws on tax evasion on erring companies and establishments is now. Tax evasion and avoidance by companies remain one of the greatest problems plaguing tax administration in Nigeria and it should not be allowed to derail her fiscal policies. This corporate criminality must stop.

Higher education bank •Good idea indeed that requires tweaking

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NDIGENT but brilliant students that cannot pursue their dream for higher education due to lack of financial assistance may have cause to smile if the bill proposing the establishment of a higher education bank scales through in the National Assembly. The bill proposes to establish The Nigerian Education Bank, with the primary duty of granting interest-free loans to poor students seeking higher education. Tagged The Students Loan (Access to Higher Education) Bill, it is sponsored by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila. The bill has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives.

This is a welcome development in a country where majority of the population live on about one dollar per day. Of course there are many hurdles confronting prospective seekers of the proverbial Golden Fleece in the country, lack of funds is however a major factor.

While the children of the rich who cannot cope with the rigorous admission processes find solace in many of the private universities in the country, many others find their way into higher institutions abroad. None of these come cheap; for example those in the private institutions in Nigeria pay as much as N700,000 to N2million per student, per annum. Those who go abroad for studies pay even far more.

Against this backdrop, whatever is done to liberalise access to education, particularly higher education, should be applauded. No one should be denied access to primary or tertiary education simply on

account of his or her parents’ inability to pay. Many of the elite, especially in the south -western part of the country who are something today attest to the fact that they could have become nonentities but for the free education initiated by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the Western Region. That region remained a major reference point in education and development matters until the military came and imposed unitary rule on the country.

No doubt, there is nothing novel in what the education bank hopes to achieve.

There was a students’ loan board under the Gowon administration from where indigent students accessed money to finance their educational needs. Unfortunately, many of the beneficiaries did not repay the loans, leading to the eventual collapse of that arrangement because the loan was supposed to be revolving.

This is why we have to caution that there should be adequate checks and encouragement in the proposed arrangement to ensure that beneficiaries pay back with ease. Minimum wage in the country is about N240,000 per annum. This is grossly inadequate to finance university or higher education even locally; that is assuming the parents do not touch the money at all but invest everything on the student in higher school. So, it is highly thoughtful of the House of Representatives to have pegged those qualified for assistance under the scheme at those whose parents earn about N500,000 per annum. If people would not have access to higher education, it should be because they are not cut out for it or they are not

serious enough; and not because the parents cannot afford it.

However, we do not understand the basis of the two-year period that the House set for commencement of repayment of the loan. Ours is a country where graduates roam the streets years after graduation; what happens if the beneficiaries have not secured jobs two years after graduation? How would they be able to repay the loan so as to avoid the sanctions attached to it, which is that repayment should commence two years after the completion of the national service? These are very important questions that must be taken into consideration to make higher education a right and not a privilege.

‘This is a welcome development in a country where majority of the population live on about one dollar per day. Of course there are many hurdles confronting prospective seekers of the proverbial Golden Fleece in the country, lack of funds is however a major factor ... Whatever is done to liberalise access to education, particularly higher education, should be applauded. No one should be denied access to primary or tertiary education simply on account of his or her parents’ inability to pay’

Lifting the EU embargo on Syria Britain and France’s move is the correct one

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OR much of the past two years, world powers have watched the deepening civil war in Syria with a sense of helplessness at the growing death toll and the increasing security threat to the Middle East. But over the next few days, international diplomacy will intensify in two ways that need to be watched.

The big question on the agenda is whether the US and Russia will succeed in convening a peace conference in Geneva next month that brings together representatives of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the rebels who are fighting him. If a conference is held, the aim will be to forge some kind of political settlement that ends the civil war. Most analysts are highly sceptical that any deal with the Assad regime could possibly be achieved after the butchery it has inflicted on its own people. But the Obama administration believes it is worth trying.

In Brussels on Monday there will be another potentially significant initiative. The UK and France will seek to amend the EU arms embargo on Syria, which would allow both states to transfer arms to the rebels at some later date. The move is opposed by several EU states, such as Austria, who fear such weapons transfers will merely inflame the conflict.

But London and Paris have signalled that if they fail to get an amendment, they will veto the continuation of the existing embargo. The road will be open to weapons transfers by Britain and France at an as yet unspecified date.

At first sight, these two initiatives may seem to contradict one another. If a peace conference is about to happen, a move by western powers just at this moment towards arming Mr Assad’s enemies may seem provocative. But William Hague, the UK foreign secretary, makes a plausible case for pressing ahead.

He claims that while the UK certainly wants to see a diplomatic solution to the civil war, the west has to keep up the pressure on Mr Assad to come to the table, negotiate and abide by any agreement. A signal by western powers now that they may transfer arms to the rebels at some later date serves that purpose.

If Britain and France do get their way, we should not exaggerate the significance of the moment. The Assad regime’s military position on the ground remains strong and, if anything, has improved in recent days. The provision of weapons by Britain and France – unless it was on a truly significant scale – would not tip the balance of the conflict against the regime.

Besides, many diplomats believe that what the opposition forces really need is co-ordination and training, rather than more guns.

But the British and French move is justified for one key reason. It will strengthen the moderate rebels fighting the Assad regime, led by General Selim Idriss, head of the Free Syrian Army. For some time now, much weaponry from Qatar and Saudi Arabia has flowed into the hands of militant forces in Syria, including jihadists, without General Idriss having any control over who gets what. A supply of weapons directly to him from Britain and France might strengthen his position within the opposition.

Some of those who are critical of such a weapons transfer – such as Britain’s opposition Labour party – have legitimate concerns. They seek reassurance that the weapons will not fall into the hands of jihadists.

They also fear that once western governments pass arms to the rebels, those governments become liable for any breaches of human rights that those forces commit on the ground. If the UK and France transfer weapons to General Idriss, those concerns will need to be addressed in parliament. For now, the direction London and Paris are going in is correct. The moderate forces opposing the Assad regime have been left high and dry in this conflict. Providing weapons will give these forces the currency of influence.

– Financial 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

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu • Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho •Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge •Advert Manager Robinson Osirike •IT Manager Bolarinwa Meekness •Press Manager Udensi Chikaodi •Manager, Corporate Marketing Hameed Odejayi • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: A recent report in the media brought to the public domain the lingering crisis between the leadership of the armed forces and the supervising ministry, the ministry of defence.

Even though the authorities of the defence headquarters have denied the said report, but as the popular saying goes, “there is no smoke without fire”.

Under the current political dispensation, direction of policy and funding for defence, like any other portfolio, rests squarely with the federal government, while the role of the ministry of defence is the management of human and material resources in order to optimize the combat effectiveness of the Nigerian armed forces.

However, defence ministeries around the world share the basic problem of striking the right balance between centralization and decentralization of authority and process. Therefore the great dilemma rests on low to assert central control while delegating sufficient responsibility to the operational arms i.e the army, navy and the air force. For instance, while procurement of military hardware is often a political decision to be taken by the civil authority, the advice of the military as to type and make is not only desirous but also essential.

Sidelining the military or

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG 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

Military and subordination to civilian control discarding their advice may definitely not be in the nation’s interest on the long run.

An example will suffice. In the 80’s during Alhaji Shehu Shagari’s presidency, the then government decided to procure military transport aircraft for the Nigerian air force. While the defence ministry preferred the Italian G222 tactical transport aircraft, the air force made a case for American C130 hercules transport aircraft, some of which it already had in its fleet. By way of comparison, the G222 is a twin engine tactical transport aircraft manufactured in Italy. Its first prototype flew in 1970 and since then had been in service in less than 10 countries by then.

The aircrafts main drawbacks are its prohibitive cost of maintenance, limited range and lack of operational flexibility.

The American C130 hercules on the other hand is a four-engined medium and long range combat transport aircraft. It was first

produced in 1952 and was being used in almost 60 countries of the world by then. The government however went ahead and procured the Italian G222 aircrafts. Four years later, all the G222 aircrafts were grounded due to prohibitive costs of maintenance. And throughout Babangidas tenure as head of state into the early years of Obasanjo’s presidency, the aircrafts could be seen idling away at the Ilorin aircrafts terminal, probably now disposed off as scraps.

The Babangida and Abacha regimes not only impoverished the nation, but also the military as an institution through corruption and mismanagement. Apart from the fact that there was no credible effort made to equip the forces there was also a general clampdown on all major military exercises.

Consequently the armed forces withdrew into cocoons of impotence. And so at the inception of democratic rule in 1999, what was inherited by the Obasanjo

administration was a military hardware that was not only largely unserviceable but almost obsolete.

We must get away from the corrupt, uneconomical and inefficient practices of the past and bring about major but gradual systemic changes in defence management and procurement.

And taking into consideration, the fact that available resources will remain limited so that it will not be possible to realize all projects that would be desirable from a military point of view, our second best alternative is the upgrading, retrofitting and modernization of weapon systems that are presently rotting away in the various barracks. Far instance, for the price of purchasing one Main Battle Tank (MBT) a number of existing ones can be upgraded and modernized to increase their lethality. The exercise could also be extended to fighter planes except for those nearing their fuselage fatigue lives.

Mimikoand governors forum election

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IR: Your ‘Hardball’ of Tuesday, May 28, made a wonderful reading. In addition to General Jonah Jang and Godswill Akpabio who have been unmasked, laid bare and demystified, another person who has lent himself to be used as a cannon fodder in the whole perfidy and treachery is Dr Rahman Mimiko of Ondo State.

I can’t understand why this individual is crying more than the bereaved. This is not the way of an av-

erage Ondo person. An average Ondo person just like his cousin in Ekiti is an epitome of what is just and true. Why can’t this man dignify himself by being neutral in the whole scheme? I hope he won’t have himself to blame much much later.

A University of Ife (OAU) trained medical doctor behaving this way!

He it was who was quoted as saying that they almost exchanged fisticuffs during the voting exercise at the governors’ forum meeting. Many

alumni of that great citadel of learning would be scandalized and disappointed.

It goes to affirm all the negative things being said about him in time past about his serial betrayals and his legendary inclination to side with unjust causes.

This is a big lesson for us in Ondo State. It’s therefore hoped that Ondo State people are taking notes. In any case, he doesn’t need the peoples’ votes anymore since he’s no longer

qualified to stand for election as governor next time. That is why he can now afford to do anything he likes including fighting a cause that doesn’t concern him.

My appeal to the good people of Ondo State is that next time, they should be discerning enough to know who and which party to vote for;not just anybody and not just any political party.

• Olu Ajayi, Akure.

In conclusion, the military must accept both individually and institutionally as a profession the principle of civil supremacy.

However it is also vital that policy formulators pay attention to opinion of the military and that policies when formulated are in the best interest of the armed forces and the country at large.

• Lt. Col Oluwole Bright (Rtd) Lagos.

Pay pensioners’ arrears now IR: This clearly is the season of monumental national scams and scandals. However, the mindless swindling of the nation’s hapless pensioners to the tune of billions of naira, certainly represents the most inexplicable and sadistic malfeasance ever perpetrated in Nigeria’s inglorious history.

Only depraved and disoriented minds can ever contemplate depriving the nation’s senior citizens of their well-deserved benefits; those who in various capacities gave their best prime years to nation building.

To redress this unmitigated injustice, the federal government is urged, as a matter of utmost urgency, to settle all outstanding arrears of federal pensioners.

It will be a grave misjudgement to take these elderly citizens for granted. The nation, already prostrate from years of misrule, risks further negative spiritual backlash and consequences, if the authorities falsely assume that since Nigerian pensioners maybe unable to precipitate any effective industrial action, they can be persistently ignored.

In the inimitable words of a great American President: ‘A nation which cannot help the poor and weak who are many, cannot save the few who are rich’.

• Simeon Odugba, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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COMMENTS

Ife – Benin – Bida - Idah complex of relations: A reflection – 1

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HE Yoruba, Edo (Bini) Nupe and Igalla people of West Africa (there are Yorubas outside Nigeria) are related peoples historically linguistically and culturally. The relationships are sometimes easily recognized by common words in their languages. In any case they all speak the KWA sub group of the Niger-Congo broad linguistic group. They share common myths of origins particularly of their rulers and not necessarily the people as is the case of Ife, Oyo and Bini dynasties.

There is also a myth among the Nupe that they and the Yoruba are related. The Oyo king Sango is said to have been born by a Nupe woman and the place of this king in the religion and cosmology of the Yoruba is very formidable. The cultural remains of terra cotta, wooden carvings, bronze and brass among the Yoruba, Nupe, Igalla and Bini point to a common origin. Instead of putting emphasis on what unites them than what divided them, some of their people for political correctness and contemporary advantages of belonging to politically dominant groups prefer to deny their historical ties. But this serves no useful purpose.

In the autobiography of the Oba of Benin Oba Erediauwa he claims that an expelled prince of Benin of the Ogiso period named Ekalederhan who after wandering for months or years in the bush surfaced in Ife and that it was him the Ife people called Oduduwa. It was this same Oduduwa/Ekalederhan who later after a generation sent his youngest son Oranmiyan to Benin to found the Oduduwa dynasty there. How convenient! What is certain is that the dynasties in Ife and Benin have a common origin.

The myths of the world being created in Benin and Ife are like most creation stories including that of the Jews, myths that have no proofs but can only be believed by those who wish to believe them. The idea of some Eastern origin of these dynasties is not restricted to the Yoruba and Edo, but is common to most West African dynasties, be it those of the Yoruba, Hausa, Kanuri and other peoples of this area. For example among the Hausa, Bayajidda is said to have come from the East to Daura and killed the It is only the PDP that has the guts to suspend a governor without a reason. I leave them to God and to you (the people). - Amaechi.

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N the last one week, the country has been on edge over a minor election. Yes minor, in the sense that it involved a few people. Just 35 persons went to the polls and all hell was let loose over the outcome some minutes later.

The row, which is yet to subside, led to the suspension of Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) four days ago. The countdown to the election was as interesting as what happened during and after the exercise.

Amaechi was the man to beat in the election and everything was done by the powers that be to incapacitate him before the race.

Long before his tenure as chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) lapsed on May 24, there were moves to ensure that he did not return to the post. Before now, the governors conducted the Forum’s affairs without let or hindrance from the Presidency. The Forum served as a club for the governors where they could gather not only to discuss the problems of their states but also of the country. After all, they are also Nigerians.

In their meetings, it is possible that they might have also broached other issues, such as the Excess Crude Account (ECA) and Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), which the central government may not be comfortable with. With the PDP also having the highest number of governors in the NGF, the party leadership would have wondered why the Forum is giving its government a hard time.

To the PDP, the NGF should be a

snake called Sarki before marrying the Queen of Daura and fathered the founders of the Hausa Bakwai states (seven original Hausa kingdoms).

It is well known by students of world civilization that Ife and Benin were centres of African civilization before contact with the outside world. It has been suggested by historians that ancient Ife was established around 8th Century A.D. and flourished remarkably around the 12th Century A.D. when the famous Ife terracotta and bronze heads and other artefacts were produced. The (lost wax process) or cire perdu through which these famous artefacts were produced were only found in ancient Greece and ancient Ife which led some European explorers like Leo Africanus during the 19th Century to suggest that perhaps the ancient Ife civilization was produced by a lost and wandering Caucasian group, a theory which was prevalent at this time and called the Hamitic theory of African civilization. This period in Ife history is associated with the Oduduwa myth of origin. Oduduwa in some account came from the Middle East and was followed by supporters of a losing battle for the throne to found a new kingdom in what is now Nigeria. There is of course the other myth of Ife being the place of the origin of man and Oduduwa coming from heaven to establish Ife. This last story can be dismissed as some clever persons’ imagination. In any case survival of the previous potentates such as Obalufon survives in the political nomenclature of Ife till today.

In African history there is confusion between the origins of people and origins of kingdoms and dynasties, this should not be so. Immigration and emigration are characteristic phenomenon not unique to African history alone but to the history of mankind. It is generally known by historians, archaeologists and physical anthropologists that man evolved in Africa from where it migrated to other parts of the world. Before the founding of the Oduduwa dynasty in Ife there were definitely autochthonous people there. This myth of Eastern origin and the so-called Kisra legend is found among several African peoples.

Some historians such as the late Professors Ade Obayemi and even A.F.C. Ryder have suggested that Ife of antiquity may have existed in several locations, Jide seven of which Osuntokun have been identified, before finally settling in the present location. Alan Ryder suggests original Ife may have been near the Niger – Benue confluence after analyzing oral traditions from Benin and from Idah and Bida. One thing is clear to most historians, this is that the manifestation of Ife cultural excellence and ascendancy predated that of Benin by some centuries. It has even been suggested that the art of bronze casting in Benin diffused from Ife. Sometimes the name of the purveyor of this diffusion is mentioned.

‘In African history there is confusion between the origins of people and origins of kingdoms and dynasties, this should not be so. Immigration and emigration are characteristic phenomenon not unique to African history alone but to the history of mankind. It is generally known by historians, archaeologists and physical anthropologists that man evolved in Africa from where it migrated to other parts of the world’

The Amaechi saga rubberstamp body, which should take anything that the Federal Government throws at it hook, line and sinker.

The party does not believe that the NGF should be independent.

What independence are we talking about when we are in power? the party may have wondered, forgetting that the Forum is a club of equals, with the chairman as the first among equals. This does not, however, make him superior to his colleagues. As the head, the chairman should tread a bit gingerly so that he is not seen as using his position to promote his party’s ideals and programmes. He occupies a delicate position and he must be able to strike a balance between his job and his party’s expectations.

Most importantly, he must not be perceived by his colleagues as treating them as second fiddle, all because they made him their chairman. Yes, they made him chairman and can remove him if they think he is using his office to pursue selfish interest. Amaechi is not the first NGF chairman, but he is the first to come under this kind of fire all because some people suspect that he is using his position to promote his political ambition.

These people believe that he is interested in the 2015 presidential election.

As I have argued in this space in the past, I don’t see anything wrong if he has such ambition. But the man has consistently denied nursing such ambition, yet they do not believe him. Amaechi’s travails began almost a year ago, if not even earlier. Before those with plans to

‘What is it about being NGF chair that our leaders want to turn the country upside down for?’

do him in started planting his posters and those of his Jigawa State counterpart, Sule Lamido, on the streets of Abuja and some other states in the North, Amaechi had a run in with the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, an Okrika, over the demolition of the Port Harcourt waterfront, said to be populated by her kinsmen.

The waterfront is not being demolished for the fun of it. The governor says his intention is to create the Greater Port Harcourt City from the rubbles of the water front. Must we play politics with development? The answer should be no, but those in Abuja do not see it as such. Months later, the real reason why the First Lady took on Amaechi emerged when Niger Delta Affairs Minister Godsday Orubebe accused him of using his position as NGF chair to attack Jonathan. What Orubebe saw as Amaechi’s attack on the president was the governor’s principled stand on the Forum’s opposition to the ECA and SWF. To people like Orubebe, Amaechi is using the Forum to feather his political nest and so must be stopped, at all cost, from getting a second term.

Indeed, everything was done to stop Amaechi from returning as NGF’s chair last Friday. The Presidency, which is today denying having any interest in who becomes NGF chair, was involved in the stop - Amaechi - plot when PDP governors were invited to a meeting at the Villa in March. At that meeting, the president made it clear that he could no longer work with Amaechi as NGF chair. He directed the governors to pick another person among them to lead the group. It was at that meeting that the PDP Governors Forum was born. Its mandate, among others, was to search for a ‘suitable’ candidate for the NGF chair.

The president was said to have settled for Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State. Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State later joined the race, barely 36 hours to the election, indicating that the antiAmaechi group still had a lot of homework to do. It became glaring that the group had not got its act together when Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang entered the race, four hours to the election.

How can a man win an election that he stood for some hours to voting?

What magic did Jang think he could perform in four hours to defeat Amaechi, who had prepared well and long for the race? Except, of course, if he was relying on other means of winning. hat is happening in NGF today is not good for our fledgling democracy and it is sad that those who should grow it are the ones working against its growth. What is it about being NGF chair that our leaders want to turn the country upside down for? Why have we turned the issue to a matter of life and death?

There is no point in overheating the polity over an election as minor as this when we have the major one coming up in two years. How prepared are we for that election when we cannot conduct a simple election among 36 governors just to pick their chairman?

If governors cannot hold free and fair election among themselves, how are we sure that those entitled to a second term among them will ensure transparency of the process in 2015? It is sad that our governors are behaving like this; what lesson are they imparting to their followers? Telling them to go and rig in 2015, come what may? Let this shenanigan stop now because no man locks horns with a man whose name, Amaechi means ‘’who knows tomorrow?’’ and wins.

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

NG, one year after How time flies. It is one year since we lost Ngozi Agbo, our former Campus Life editor. NG was down to earth and always wore a smile, even when annoyed. She was such a lovely and pleasant person. Hardly will you know that she was in the newsroom whenever she was around because she concentrated on her work. She sat at her corner quietly working on the stories of her mentees (the budding journalists) in our various higher institutions, who are the contributors to Campus Life.

Campus Life was NG’s baby and she treated all the student-contributors as her children. She called them “my boys and girls”. She was a mother hen who took her brood under her protective feathers. My dear sister, you did a good job. When I look at Wale Ajetunmobi, who now coordinates Campus Life, and Hannah Ojo, I see the marvellous job you did in grooming them. I almost wept when I read their pieces on you (see the Campus Life section). Your husband, Agbo, is keeping the flag flying, running the column which you stopped writing on May 28, last year. And your boy too is doing wonderfully well. I saw his picture on his dad’s phone the other day. NG, continue to rest in the Lord’s bosom.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

22

COMMENTS

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RECISELY because President Jonathan fights with might and means and because PDP is notorious for undermining the spirit of our laws including its own constitution, I predicted a few weeks back that Governor Rotimi Amaechi, despite his acclaimed superlative performance in office, the goodwill of his people and the support of the opposition was not likely going to survive the combined forces of an unforgiving president and a party that loathe the democratic process.

That came to pass this Monday when Amaechi, an elected governor, was suspended by his party. This was coming shortly after the suspension of elected members of his state legislature.

PDP and its elected or selected governors despise the democratic process in spite of their professed commitment to democratic rule.

Their reaction to Amaechi’s victory in the NGF election and his subsequent suspension from the party has only but confirmed this lack of faith in the democratic process. Beyond this, the PDP governors have by their irresponsible outbursts, infantile lies and unnecessary heating up of the polity just to please the president, demonstrated their weakness of character.

The story was that election for the position of chairmanship of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), was held in which 35 governors participated. The communiqué after the election by the NGF Director-General, Asishana Okauru, confirmed that “The governors of the 36 states of the federation at the sixth meeting of the year elected ... for the next two years: chairman, Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi, governor of Rivers State; and vice chairman, Alhaji Abullaziz Yari, governor of Zamfara State. All the governors present participated in the election except the governor of Yobe State who was not present”, Okauru concluded.” He later told journalists that Governor Amaechi won the election with 19 votes as against 16 votes scored by Governor Jang. He also stated that Governor of Zamfara State Abudlaziz Yari was elected vice-chairman of the forum after Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko stepped down for him.

But without invalidating Okauru’s claims, PDP governors who as we have always said, behave like gangsters, told journalists that 17 governors had chosen Governor Jang as chairman of the NGF while Mimiko would serve as the vice chairman. Their crooked logic was that before the election, Jang had been endorsed by the 19 northern governor’s forum. These bad losers cannot even see the parallel in the triumph of Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the current speaker of the Lower House over the

Governors without character South-west PDP endorsed candidate for the position, ably supported by ex- President Obasanjo and President Jonathan.

Tragically, the battle to discredit an election in which they actively participated was led by Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, the governor of Ondo State who himself has credibility problem.

Critics of the very resourceful governor elected on the platform of Labour Party but now openly wears the cloak of PDP, speaks of his serial betrayal having dumped his benefactor, Adefarati, played Brutus on Dr Olusegun Agagu and used Tinubu to retrieve his PDP stolen mandate, only to cross over to President Jonathan, the highest bidder who was in a position to deploy the IG, an army battalion and a contingent of police to Ondo to ensure his victory during his re-election bid last year.

He caught a pathetic picture as he tried to justify the perfidy of desperate PDP men trying to play on the intelligence of Nigerians.

According to Mimiko, “Amaechi did not step down as chairman before the election in which he was a candidate; he produced some papers that he called ballot papers, there was no way we could trace the source, we don’t know whether they were pre-marked or whatever”.

Mimiko’s attempt at misleading Nigerians is not in the character of forthright and proud people of Ondo he leads and who are known for calling a spade by its name. But more damaging to Mimiko’s testament is the testimony of his good friend, Dr Kayode Fayemi of Ektit who confirmed the election as free and fair, describing, with his usual grace and depth the outcome as ‘a vote for democracy’ and not as an endorsement of Amaechi or a vote against the president. Nigerians are more likely to believe Fayemi’s account of events than that of those the Yoruba call ’ko se eku, ko se eiye’ (neither rodent nor bird). Above all, the voting process during the NGF election, as shown

T

THE Bible tells the story of Saul turning into Paul on the way to Damascus, after encountering God. Could there be an evolving Nigerian story of a Paul turning Saul, somewhere between Owo and Ife, after an encounter with mammon? I just wonder!

This musing came after reading “South-West: Lest we forget regional integration”, a piece by Bola Bolawole, in his “Turning Point” column on the back page of the Wednesday May 22 issue of Daily Newswatch.

Normally, it is trite in logic that leaving the message to attack the messenger is bad writing and bad thinking culture. Indeed, that fallacy is called ad hominem. In this case however, engaging the writer, in the context of his writing, is both logical and legitimate, since he ab initio, smuggled himself into the write-up in a most supine, abject and illogical manner, that suggests his readers must be fools.

Wrote he: “In Osun State, I wish Governor Rauf Aregbesola would not be returned for second term but that PDP would take over the state in next year’s election.”

To start with, that was absolutely presumptuous and without rigour. As far as I know, democratic choices are past the realm of wishes. If wishes were horses, goes the saying, every fool would ride – and perhaps break his neck! Democratic elections are made of more rigorous stuff – at least they should be, since man is supposed to be a rational and pain-avoiding animal. So, on what account might Governor Aregbesola lose the next election, when in two years he has done more than Olagunsoye Oyinlola and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) power scavengers did in almost eight years?

Not so long ago, Bolawole had in his column in the Nigerian Tribune, rubbed in the sand the nose of Iyiola Omisore – he of the sinister scowl, violent politics and push-and-mug mentality. He claimed Omisore had so many questions to answer and that he would have nothing to do with him.

Barely months after, however, he was inviting fellow journal-

‘If scaling up educational infrastructure in terms of new school buildings, Opon Imo, the computer tablet for senior secondary school pupils, free school uniforms that also provides jobs for local tailors and designer, and free meals for junior pupils are politics, I think the Osun people would have been glad Omisore and his exuberant party played such politics when they were in power for almost eight years of stolen mandate!’

by some television stations did further damage to the credibility of Mimiko and his PDP forum of bad losers.

The graceless outing of Jonah Jang of Plateau also probably explains why he has for about eight years supervised bloodletting in his state. He knew he lost ‘fair and square’, yet demonstrating ecstasy after being declared winner by 17 governors on Saturday, he told journalists on arrival to Jos his state capital that “As far as I’m concerned I have been given an assignment and by the grace of God I will do my best to unite the forum and make sure the forum provides the right leadership for the people of Nigeria…”.

But charity begins at home. Jang, who was not graceful enough to accept defeat, is obviously also deficit in tolerance and compromise, the two most important ingredients of democracy. He needs these attributes to stop the bloodletting between the Fulani and their chief hosts, the Berom. The Fulani have nowhere else to go. Asking them to go back to the Futa Jallon area where their great forbearers migrated from over 200 years ago is like asking the Jews and Arabs to go back to Ur in Iraq, where Abraham their great grandfather was given a vision of a land flowing with milk and honey. Even when in God’s mysterious ways, the land turned out to be hilly desert full of craters and valleys of death, rather than abandon the land to the Philistines its owners, they have turned it to a land flowing with blood of their children. What Plateau need to avoid such fate is compromise and Jang by his actions has proved he is deficit in honour.

As for the chairman South-east Governors Forum, Peter Obi, “we in the South-east have always worked together as governors… the South-east together supported the candidacy of Jang.” Of course the position of the leadership of the South-east is well known to Nigeri-

ans. Their leaders often worked for themselves, feathering their own nests while shouting from the roof top about marginalization of the Igbos after trading off the presidency.

The Chairman of the South–south Governors Forum, Governor Liyel Imoke said: “As chairman of the South-south Governors Forum, we also participated in the process that led to the emergence of Governor Jonah Jang. “Of course” the South–south has always stood behind this administration...” Imoke ‘s freudstian slip confirmed what everyone knows-that the PDP governors attempt to turn the truth on its head is all about president Jonathan 2015 ambition.

The vice chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, Governor Gabriel Suswam, also confirmed the adoption of “a new leadership led by Jang and supported by Governor Mimiko, the Iroko” during a meeting of northern governors. But Suswam did not make mention of the earlier election in which he participated.

Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State said: “we were contestants but stepped down for Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State to be our consensus candidate of the 19 Northern Governors Forum.” But except under feudalism, such an act cannot automatically transform Jang to NGF chairman.

The chairman of the PDP governor’s forum, Governor Godswill Akpabio said: “Yesterday (Friday, it was agreed the chairmanship of the NGF be zoned to the PDP which is the party with the largest number of governors in the forum.” Since Amaechi won the election as a PDP governor, his suspension three days later, meant the script was written well in advance.

And finally, if we stretch Akpabio’s logic, what then qualified Mimiko, the only Labour governor, as vice chairman when there are parties with higher number of elected governors?

‘Jang, who was not graceful enough to accept defeat, is obviously also deficit in tolerance and compromise, the two most important ingredients of democracy. He needs these attributes to stop the bloodletting between the Fulani and their chief hosts, the Berom’

Paul to Saul: all in his master’s service

By Idowu Gbajabiamila ists, particularly seasoned columnists whose voice have influence, to come have close tete-a-tete with Omisore who claimed he had acquired some PhD on some newfangled area – and needed right thinking members of the society to help validate his claim. Bolawole probably succeeded with some. But he gloriously failed with not a few; and for his and continuing impiety, his principal remains a pariah to decent and respectable society.

So, why might an Owo native that Bolawole is, be so obsessed with a governor from a neighbouring state losing an election; and a PDP, that had, beyond any reasonable doubt, proved its incompetence and uselessness, win? Apparently between Owo and Ife, a former Paul of the Nigerian media, bristling with propriety, decency and justice, had turned to a Saul, in the service of the pig-and-muck manor of Omisore, the decency-challenged enforcer nursing the delusion of being governor.

Well, Bolawole has a right to pick his camp. He also has the right to ally with God or with mammon. But he does not have the right to unleash blatant presumption on readers, hiding behind South West integration, and making outlandish claims against Governor Aregbesola who, by the dint of focus, commitment and hard work, would continue to be the nemesis of Omisore and his Osun PDP freeloaders, even with their illicit and so-called federal might.

Bolawole opened his piece with a fallacy: because Labour Party won the Ondo gubernatorial election, the battle for the soul of the South West was lost and won! That might be fine logic in the Omisore rigour-challenged political pepper soup joints. But it is clearly asinine in cultivated circles.

To follow the Omisore tradition of extreme contempt for readers, Bolawole went on to inflict another blatant lie: since the loss of Ondo election in which the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) made South West integration a campaign issue, and of which Aregbesola was prime driver, nothing had been heard of the project again.

Yet, at a four-day South West Expo: Grassroots Business and Investment Forum 2013, from February 6 to 9, an event to practicalise South West integration organised by The Nation newspaper and Ceedee consultants, and hosted by the State of Osun in Osogbo, newspapers widely reported Aregbesola’s personal invitation to Governor Olusegun Mimiko to join his brother governors on the South West integration project. He added that since election was over, it was

time to join hands to develop the region. Prince Bola Ajibola and Dr. Omololu Olunloyo and other distinguished guests from this clime graciously attended the event.

Besides, participants after the event agreed on a 17point resolution, Number 4 of which declared: “Ondo State should, as of right, take its place in South West integration programmes and activities.” Indeed, Dipo Famakinwa, directorgeneral of the DAWN Commission, the policy implementing arm of South West integration, with its headquarters at Cocoa House, Ibadan, was even one of the resource persons who delivered papers at that event.

So, where comes Bolawole’s yarn that nothing had been heard of the project since the Ondo election; or that Aregbesola, in Bolawole’s view, “the acclaimed coordinator of regional integration for ACN ... has not said a word about regional integration since his party lost in Ondo”? It is of course the empty gas that comes from the Omisore sinister house of push-andshove politics.

That brings the matter to Bolawole’s reasons for his “wish” that Aregbesola lose the coming election: that the governor played politics with everything – religion, education and regional integration.

From this piece so far, it is clear that Aregbesola playing politics with regional integration is a fiction of the jaundiced imagination of those whose stock-in-trade is emotive blackmail, not reasoned discourse. As for playing politics on education, if scaling up educational infrastructure in terms of new school buildings, Opon Imo, the computer tablet for senior secondary school pupils, free school uniforms that also provides jobs for local tailors and designer, and free meals for junior pupils are politics, I think the Osun people would have been glad Omisore and his exuberant party played such politics when they were in power for almost eight years of stolen mandate!

As for Bolawole’s charge on politicking with religion, it is a classic example of giving a dog a bad name to hang it. But any right-thinking person knows that Aregbesola’s religious policy is based on equal access, equal opportunity and fairness.

Even the Hijab issue epitomises just that; and the access to traditional believers even more epitomises this equal access and equal opportunity policy, which is however beyond the ken of irrational rabble rousers, whose forte is stark ignorance.

The good thing though is that our people have left that Egypt of ignorance and are cruising toward the Promised Land of development and prosperity under the charge of Aregbesola.

Not a billion Omisores and his misguided chorus singers and court jesters can stop that.

25

THE NATION

EDUCATION

THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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

email:- education@thenationonlineng.com

Many parents prefer private to public schools because they believe things are better there. Their children will be well taught and they will get value for their money, they claim. But how really good are private schools? Do they meet parents’ expectations? KOFOWOROLA BELO-OSAGIE, ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA and MEDINAT KANABE report.

•Are these public school students better off than their counterparts in private schools?

In the world of private schools I ‘ ’ T is an endless debate among parents and other stakeholders in the education sector. Which is better, private or public schools? To some, private schools are better; but others feel otherwise. The latter believes that public schools have all it takes to give a child quality education. Because of this belief, many parents are not ready to touch private schools, even with a 10-foot pole.

Advocates of private schools believe that there is a rot in the public school system which has affected the quality of education. They argue that government’s failure in other sectors is reflected in public schools. But do private schools really have what it takes to fill the gap? The answer, to some parent, is no.

Why? They say the schools are not run ethically.” They cut corners and circumvent

I have enlightened them and educated them that other people’s children who go to public schools are doing better.

They wake up at 4.30 in the morning, they do some home chores and some serious work before they go to school. They don’t wake up grudgingly at 6.30 and expect to get to school

the rules in order to make money and retain pupils,” some said.

“What many of the schools do that is annoying is that they award marks to pupils who fail and that is unethical,” says a parent, who pleaded not to be named. The schools too blame parents for not paying attention to their children because they have sent them to school.

According to some teachers, that should not

INSIDE

Medical student, others win in quiz competition -Page 28

JAMB’s CBT to tackle malpractices -Page 37

be the case. “Parents,” they say, “should complement what we do as teachers.” What is the way out? Should there be a summit on education where parents and teachers should meet to rub minds? “Yes,” say some teachers. “It is high time we met with parents to iron out these grey areas in the interest of these pupils and their future,”a teacher said.

A guidance counsellor, Dr Ibilola Amao,

believes parents with children in private schools must do more in terms of giving them quality education. From organising one-week residential science camp retreats for secondary school pupils over the years as part of her Vision 20: 2020 Career Counselling, Industry Awareness and Youth Empowerment Initiative, Mrs Amao said the improved performance of public schools in the retreat shows that parents with children in private schools are neglecting their duties.

In an interview with The Nation, Mrs Amao said during last year’s edition of the summer camp at the Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos public schools’ pupils performed better than their private schools’ counterparts in every depart•Continued on page 26

CAMPUS LIFE

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

VC suspended over varsity’s closure -Page 29

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

26

EDUCATION CU wins award

COVENANT University, Ota in Ogun State will be conferred with the "Best performing higher institution of the year" award at the International Conference Centre, Abuja on June 26.

The award is being conferred by the Governing Council of the Nigeria Advancement Award.

Chairman, Screening/Award Committee, Tony Rex Ibaminabo, said CU emerged the best in the education category based on a nationwide poll conducted across Nigeria.

The university was selected ahead of four other finalists, including the American University Nigeria (AUN), Yola, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

In a letter to the CU ViceChancellor, Prof Charles Ayo, Ibaminabo said the award was in recognition of the university's excellence, quality service and exceptional contributions to the advancement of Nigeria.

"Your positive values and exemplary leadership to our beloved country Nigeria are worthy of emulation,” he said.

Undisputed awards hold Saturday

By Ajose Sehindemi

TO reawaken students' potential in tertiary institutions, especially at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), an entertainment outfit, Hot Entertainment, alongside Hero Entertainment, has concluded arrangements to hold an award in recognition of talented individuals, who are still holding their heads high despite economic and social challenges.

The awards are called Undisputed, according to the Head of Hot Entertainment Olayiwola Temidayo,will hold on Saturday.

Temidayo said: "Undisputed awards aims at celebrating young but outstanding youths; those few hardworking ones that have made productive use of their talents and ideas, affecting their environment positively, and challenging others to find a just cause to be someone of relevance and value.”

The initiative, Temidayo stressed, was inspired because non-recognition of budding youths via a platform such as Undisputed Award, has made crippled ideas, talents and good dreams.

In the world of private schools •Continued from page 25

ment. They were also better behaved, she added.

She urged parents who are paying so much in private schools to check the privileges their children are getting that distracts them from focusing on their education.

She said: “I have enlightened them and educated them that other people’s children who go to public schools are doing better. They wake up at 4.30 in the morning, they do some home chores and some serious work before they go to school. They don’t wake up grudgingly at 6.30 and expect to get to school. State secondary school science students out-performed those from the private secondary schools and that is the fact. And they were even the best behaved children as well during our camp. So, I cannot imagine what the so-called leaders, captains of industry and what we call ourselves can boast of. Parents need to take away the video games, blackberry, i.pads and all the things that do not make the children to focus on their books.”

Some other parents and teachers agree with her. They insist that it is foolhardy to expect the schools only to educate and instil discipline in pupils. “What are the parents doing that they cannot monitor the education of their children?” they wondered.

A mother of three and a teacher Mrs Erica Chikwendu said parents should ask questions about expected learning outcomes to enable them know whether their children are learning.

“As a teacher, I must say that parents have a lot to do. You should insist that your child’s school gives you expected learning outcomes and you should be able to know what your child should achieve after a certain class. Usually, schools have a term plan. It is divided into weeks.

You should insist on knowing each topic from each subject and you follow up. Bringing up a child is not just a school’s duty but many parents are leaving it to the school and that is why they do not know what their children are doing in school.

“But, if you are involved, you will know when they are not doing well; when their mates are doing better than them. And you can enforce it because some teachers tend to be lazy. Not all children have the same intelligent quotient (IQ) to grab fast so you have to do your own job as a parent to make sure that the school does its own.

“I go back to the school and tell them my son came back and could not do his home work because he does not know what a verb is. That is like checking the school so for me

‘The parents are watching us so if the child is not doing well, they will know and withdraw the child. We ensure we teach the children well and give them serious check. I have a family of six in my school, five of them failed and repeated in different classes in the same year and their father was happy.

He said he didn’t know that people still have schools like this’ they are on their toes with me. I don’t know about other mothers,” she said.

A businesswoman, Mrs Bosede Alabi, also says she is a frequent visitor at her children’s school to ensure they are learning properly.

“I am a business woman. I go to my children’s school three to four times a week because it is still the same way I take to my shop. I go there and ask questions because, with most schools now, if you trust the proprietors or owner of the school, what about the teachers?” she said.

But not all parents are that committed, says Mr Sunday Ayo (not real name) a teacher, in a private school in Ojo, Lagos suburb. He said with this kind of attitude, parents are not able to check on whether the schools are doing well and what the pupils are failing to do.

Ayo does not deny the directive given by the management to “conjure marks” for pupils in his school, particularly those who underperformed during terminal examination, to give the impression that the pupils did not fare too badly.

He said: “They (parents) don’t have private audience with their children.

Some parents, once they fix their children in a private school, simply go to bed believing the often good results their children bring home at the end of the term are testimonies of the high amount they pay as school fees on them.”

His colleague who does not want to be named, complained that many pupils do what they like when they know their parents don’t check.

He said: “I have on countless times, caught some pupils in my class playing with handsets or reading sports magazines. Come to our Staff room and you will see the number of handsets we have seized.

We sent for some of the parents but they hardly come around. There was a particular student that we have seized over three handsets from, yet

he keeps buying another . We have caught some of them smoking or sneaking alomo (a strong liquor) to school and send them home but their parents will come back begging, and that ends it.”

According to Mr Bob James, it was when he began to monitor his children’s school work that he started noticing gaps in their education. He said that was when he realised that the N80,000 he was paying as school fees per term did not match the quality of education they were getting.

“When my four-year-old boy, Tom, could not read ABC coherently, I began wondering how he came about the high marks the school was giving him. I went to the school and approached the proprietor, I was told she did not come to work and that was when one of the teachers gave me a shocker. She confessed most of the teachers are not trained. To my surprise, he said some of them were even still studying for their degrees. The teacher then advised me to look for a qualified teacher for private teaching for my twins if I want them to improve.”

Another teacher who crossed over from a school in Ipaja, a Lagos suburb, that was once listed as one of the top schools in the 2006 West African Senior Secondary School Examination (WASSCE), said the school was less than transparent with the way it prepared its pupils for the exam.

“Don’t be fooled by their result, he said. “I taught there. I know what they used to do,”the teacher said.

The lies the schools tell parents on the performance of their children are blamed on the parents, who many teachers say only want to see their children excelling. If the children fail, rather than address the cause of failure, parents change school as a quick fix measure,” a

Prospective teachers urged to appreciate career

P

ROVOST Topmost College of Education, Ipaja, Lagos Dr Mabel Odunayo has urged those going into the teaching profession to be proud of themselves and not see career as one for the not-dowells in the society.

Speaking at the matriculation of the newly admitted students who have just secured admission into the college’s Professional Diploma in Education(PDE) for the 2012/2013 academic year, Odunayo said today, the 'chalk' profession is more rewarding with teachers reaping them on earth and in the hereafter.

And what fulfilled a teacher with natural calling for the job, she added, is the unquantifiable joy he or she derives seeing the students she once moulded succeed in future. "That is the fulfillment of every teacher; no one can place value on such joy," she said.

She therefore urged them to shun any act that can disturb the smooth

teacher said.

This is well captured by what happened in a particular school in Isolo, a Lagos suburb. A teacher there told The Nation that she reported the underperformance of a particular boy in the last terminal examination to the proprietor, who instructed the teacher to fail the pupil accordingly to get the parents’ attention to the boy’s education.

However the reverse was the case.

“When the boy failed, his parents came to question why and they took him to another school. They did not even wait to discover the reasons and what they could do about it. Our proprietror insisted on the result so he was withdrawn,” she said.

Mrs Onyeka Ogoma, chairperson, National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Mushin chapter, confirmed the failure-thenwithdraw practice by parents. Nevertheless, she said her school fails pupils when necessary.

She said: “The parents are watching us so if the child is not doing well, they will know and withdraw the child. We ensure we teach the children well and give them serious check. I have a family of six in my school, five of them failed and repeated in different classes in the same year and their father was happy. He said he didn’t know that people still have schools like this.”

Mr Alex Oni, former deputy chairman, Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), said the failure-withdrawal syndrome was the reason some private schools do not grade pupils according to their positions in class.

“They know that if they ask a child to repeat, the parents may withdraw the child. That is one of the reasons they don’t use positions anymore; they know that using positions can annoy the parents.

They are money centred,” he said.

Despite the shortcomings of private schools, many parents still prefer them to public schools, which they claim lack care monitoring.

Mrs Popoola Ajayi, a parent, said she cannot patronise public schools for these reasons.

“The government schools cannot help us. They don’t pay attention to the children. It is embarrassing to come to a school and find a child who should be studying selling things for her teacher,” she said.

To make public schools more attractive, another parent, Mrs Cecilia Oluchuckwu, who says two of her four children attend public schools, urged the government to address the problem of overpopulation.

“Governments should do something about overpopulation, she said. “I realise that my two children that attend public schools are more disciplined than the other two.

Except for too many students crammed in poor classrooms, poor laboratories, and all that, I believe there is a future in public schools,” she said.

By Adegunle Olugbamila

running of their programmes in school. Congratulating the new students, Chairman of the college Governing Council, Mr Wale Odunayo, admonished them to see their matriculation as the beginning of their journey into professional teaching.

"I want to assure you all that as you will be graduating in the next three years, you will be awarded with the Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) certificate that will qualify you as professional teachers that are duly certified," he said.

Administering the oath on the inductees, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) Prof Addison Wokocha said the council was established under Decree 31 of 1993 (now TRCN Act CapT3 of 2004) with a mandate to, among others things, determine

• Some of the participants during oath taking

qualified teachers as well as what standards of knowledge and skills are to be attained by persons aspiring to become teachers.

“In exercising this mandate, TRCN directs its vision to regulate teacher education, training and practice at all levels of the education system in

order to match teacher quality, discipline, professionalism, reward and dignity with international standards," Wokocha added.

27

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

EDUCATION Reps pledge support to Poly

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EMBERS of the House of Representatives Committee on Education have promised to assist the Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Kogi State to get relevant authorities to release adequate funds to the institution.

Their leader, Uzo Azubike, made the pledge when the committee met with the management of the polytechnic during a visit.

Azubike said the committee was on the campus to see things with the view to improving on the teaching and learning conditions in the polytechnic which, they noted, needs attention.

He commended the industrial harmony between the management and the trade unions of the institutions as well as the relative peace enjoyed on the campus. He called on the staff, students and other stakeholders of the polytechnic to be committed to its advancement to fulfil the dreams of the founding fathers.

The Rector, Mr Matthew Itopa Akpata, presented a report of the challenges facing the institution, the major one being inadequate funds.

Other members of the Committee include: Abdullahi Balarabe Salame, Abdulrahaman Badamasi, Ini Udoka, Odeneye Kehinde and Bashir Baballe.

Community wants Fed Poly Nekede renamed

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VER a decade after it was founded, the Umudibia community in Imo State is urging the government to rename the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede after the community.

They may get their wish. The Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State, has assured the community that it will facilitate the name change to Federal Polytechnic, Umudibia in accordance with their demands.

The community in a letter through the Head of the Commu-

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

nity Government Council (CGC), Chief Ngozi Oparacho, had requested that the name of the polytechnic be changed to reflect the name of the community where it is situated.

The people had demanded that one of them be made a member of the institution's Governing Council to represent the interest of the host community in line with the Federal Polytechnic Act of 1979, no 33, Cap F17-3(e), which states that the Council shall consist of a Chair-

man and other members which will include one outstanding member of the community where the polytechnic is situated.

Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Ado Yusuf, who gave the assurance when he led other members of the 12th Council of the institution on a courtesy visit to the palace of the traditional ruler of the community, Eze Godwin Merenini, promised to channel the request for the name change to the appropriate authorities.

He said that the demand is justifiable, given the level of cooperation

Sokoto Varsity spends N10.3b From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

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ICAN appoints registrar

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HE Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has appointed Mr. Rotimi Akanni Omotoso, as its new Registrar/Chief Executive Officer. The appointment took effect from Monday, May 20.

In a statement, Claudia Binitie, Director, Corporate Affairs of the institute said Mr Omotoso replaced Mr. Olutoyin Adepate, who retired recently.

Prior to this appointment, Mr Omotoso an a financial advisor in Georgia, United States and has over 27 years experience in financial management, controllership and business development accounting, commercial banking, financial planning, industry and government.

He was a consultant to Fortune 100 Corporation, American Express Financial Advisors, Verizon Wireless Treasury and the State Accounting Office of Georgia.

In recognition of his excellent services, he received the American Express Advisor Mercury Award in 2004 and this year for five years’ service by the state of Georgia.

Omotoso's experience is not limited to the United States. In Nigeria, he excelled and rose to the pinnacle of a career that led him through Akintola Williams and Co. where he received his accounting training starting with youth service, to Ecobank where he served as Financial Controller and Deputy General Manager (AGM)/Head, Commercial Banking.

He was educated at The Polytechnic, Ibadan; he received an MBA from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State and a certificate in state Financial Management from Carl Vinson Institute of Government, the Univeristy of Georgia.

He is an alumnus of the Lagos Business School Advanced Management Programme (AMP14); member, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN); member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA); Fellow, Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and ICAN.

the polytechnic has received from the community since its establishment, Yusuf commended the community for its peaceful disposition, noting that other communities where Federal institutions were located have engaged in fights with the institution, resulting in loss of lives and property, "but such has not been the case with Umudibia community hence our visit to the traditional ruler to say thank you and solicit for more cooperation and understanding".

In his response, the monarch, who traced the history of the polytechnic said the need to change the name of the polytechnic became imperative because Umudibia community became autonomous since 12 years ago and no more under Nekede as it was the time the institution was sited. He noted that the change of name will compensate the people who donated land on which the institution is sited.

• From left: Vice Chancellor, Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Prof. Adeleke Ogunwale; Rector, Rev T. O. Siyanbola and President, The Polytechnic, Prof Ramon Adedoyin, during the graduation/matriculation of The Polytechnic, Ife, Osun State.

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Amosun's wife starts Green Education

IFE of the Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, has established the Green Education for the Youth (GEFTY) initiative to teach young people.

She advised children and youths in the state to support and promote her campaign for the going green initiative through tree planting to ensure a sustainable and healthy environment.

Speaking during the Children's Day celebration/launch of GEFTY initiative at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, Mrs. Amosun said all children and youths are GEFTY ambassadors and they were expected to launch the Ogun State Youth 10,000 Tree Planting exercise, which would be accomplished through 6,000 children present at the ceremony.

She noted that the initiative is

geared towards promoting a clean and healthy environment devoid of environmental pollution as well as teaching them to protect their future to contribute to the progress of the state and Nigeria.

"The world is going green and job creation is going green and we do not want our children be left out in the sensitisation of the green initiative. Today, we shall be flagging-off 10,000 tree seedlings to be distributed to our children for planting in their homes and environment to ensure greener and better condition of the environment, she said."

Mrs Amosun called on parents to join hands with her in uplifting the environment by ensuring their wards are guided through the planting process, enjoining them to educate the youth on recycling techniques and get unemployed youths off the street into the recycling

business of turning waste to wealth.

"Let's educate them on agricultural tree planting and get our unemployed youths off the street into farmland orchards: they should plant fruit trees in tons on acres of land, and in so doing they would sustain the environment whilst earning a living," she said.

as second fiddle - A bewildering paradox, Akinkugbe lamented the low morale of teachers, poor salaries, overcrowded classes and understaffing.

He observed that pass rate in secondary schools has nose-dived to less than 10 per cent. He also decried the state of the age-old GCI where a teacher now handles 300 students.

He added: "The incursion of government into the area of ownership of schools has further complicated an already parlous state of affairs. Voluntary agencies had been the fore-runners of secondary education for over a century and the extent of government participation had been limited to regulating and monitoring through inspectorate divisions or ministries.

"The best option is joint ownership by government and old boys in the

of the GCI Old Boys Association (Lagos Branch), praised the state government for its efforts, adding that the college needed far more assistance to get back to shape.

He said: "The old boys continue to strive valiantly to uphold the school and its ideals 35 years after the unfortunate exercise by various governments that led to the down grading of many secondary schools including our great school.

“The policy of the government in 1979 which turned the exclusive territory of Government College, Ibadan to the domain of other secondary schools, including Apata Ganga High School and the near eradication of merit as a criterion for entry into the school was an unpardonable assault on quality education in Nigeria. “

• Mrs Amosun

Govt College, Ibadan alumni seek ownership NLY Public-Private of public private partnership." of alma mater spirit Partnership (PPP) in the Babalakin, who is the Chairman

O

administration of Government College, Ibadan (GCI) will revive the fortunes of the school, old boys of the school have said.

They are appealing to the Oyo State government to allow them partner in the funding and management of the school that has produced many prominent Nigerians.

During the yearly luncheon and merit award of the GCI Old Boys Association in Lagos, Professor Emeritus of Medicine, Oladipo Akinkugbe, former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke, and a former Chairman of Committee of Pro-Chancellors, Dr. Wale Babalakin argued that the only option for government is to return public schools to private bodies to raise the fallen standards.

While delivering his keynote address entitled: Secondary education

OT less than N10.3 billion has so far been spent by the Sokoto State government to ensure a smooth take-off of academics in the Sokoto State University.

Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof Nuhu Yakubu, made this known in Sokoto on Monday while receiving three units of 36-seater buses donated to the university by Governor Aliyu Wamakko.

The governor was on inspection of works at the university as part of events marking democracy day in the state.

Yakubu, who also took the governor and other dignitaries round to, inspect the university's project, said academic activities are expected to start in the 2013/2014 session soon.

He said three faculties– Education, Sciences and Arts and Social Sciences – had been completed for the take-off.

Completed projects inspected by Wamakko included students hostel, administrative block, lecture halls, some completed staff quarters as well as mosque.

Meanwhile, the governor has assured of speedy completion of the staff quarters project.

Varsity disclaims fake admissions AUTHORITIES of Crescent University, Abeokuta have drawn the attention of the public to a fraudulent website www.topix.com advertising fake Crescent University supplementary admissions to defraud unsuspecting admission seekers.

In a statement through its Public Relations Officer, Idris Katib, members of the public were advised not to pay any money into private accounts of any admissions 'agent' as being requested.

It urged that all enquiries about the institution's 2013/2014 admissions should be channeled through the website www.crescent-university.edu.ng or admissions office of the institution's registry.

Katib also advised the prospective candidates of Crescent University, Abeokuta who scored the UTME national minimum to visit the institution's campus at Km 5, Ayetoto Road with a N5,000 bank draft of any bank paid in the name of the university.

28

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

EDUCATION ACE FILE

New Council resumes

THE newly inaugurated members of the Governing Council of the Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo resumed on Tuesday with a meeting with the members of the college community.

The meeting was its first since the council was inaugurated in Abuja last month.

Ambassador Musa John is the Chairman of the Governing Council, while Dr Buki Olamigoke, John Pribi, Kalu Ama Nkama are members.

Others members are Dr. Olufemi Olajuyigbe and Dr. Yemi Ogunsiji, representatives of College Academic staff union.

School seeks alternative funding

THE School of Education, ACE, has advocated alternative sources of funding for the education sector.

The school made this call in a communiqué issued at the end of its Fourth Annual Conference themed: Conflicts in the Nigerians educational practices: Implication for educational advancement in Nigeria.

According to the communiqué signed by the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Dr. Ajere Olugbenga, poor funding of education could be overcome through endowment funds and internally generated revenue.

The conference agreed that there is the need to discourage total dependence on subventions and intervention funds fund for human capital asset and physical development in schools and institutions.

The conference frowned at the political elites and capitalists that discourage creativity and optimal utilisation of natural gifts by creating substandard learning environment in public schools.

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Medical student, others win in quiz competition •’I will return to win N1m’

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INETEEN-YEAR-old Kelechi Nwoku is on a mission to raise funds to sponsor her sister for further studies abroad.

The student of Abia State University, Uturu, has the ambitious goal of raising N1million. And to achieve the goal, she entered for the My Education Quiz Play, a television game show that allows players to accumulate money for answering quiz questions correctly.

She learnt about the competition from a popular blog, sent a message to the organisers and was lucky to be among those picked to participate.

The game show, fashioned after the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire show, is sponsored by the Foundation for Effective Leadership and Development (FELD) to help students win grants towards their education.

Kelechi won N210,000 during the recording of the show last month.

This money has come in handy for the 200-Level Medical student who said it has gone into paying her school bills. However, she sill hopes to return to win N1 million for her sister.

"I am studying medicine. My clinical fee is N200, 000 the remaining N10, 000 will be used to buy clothes; but I promise to come back and win N1 million for my sister," she said.

By Medinat Kanabe

Last month, FELD, a nongovernmental organisation, gave out a total of N2million to 25 winners of the quiz competition.

The winner who are secondary school pupils and undergraduates from various schools in Nigeria were presented with their cheques at a ceremony in Lagos last Friday.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of FELD, Hon. Paul Adingwupu, said the initiative is to complement's efforts in education.

"Government cannot do everything. It needs to be supported to reach out to the people. On that premise we felt that we should do the needful, that is, give our support no matter how little. So, we started the foundation," he said.

He said the ultimate sum for secondary school category is

N1million while that of tertiary institution is N2million.

"We are happy to help restore hope to the lives of the people. The students and their parents/ guardians are excited and we are happy that we are touching lives," Adingwupu added.

Also, Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, Project Director, FELD, said the competition seeks to support and motivate students in secondary school and tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

He further said the game is designed as a way of learning with particular emphasis on school curriculum of participating groups with general knowledge questions as well.

"The project is expected to serve as a veritable platform for students to showcase their brainpower and inspire others to action, with constant studying. All that is needed to participate is to text

EXCEL to 35811," he said.

Winners in the tertiary institution category include Anthony Onyeahialam, University of Lagos (N280,000), Adesoji Adeoye Joseph, University of Lagos (N240,000); Odejide Joshua, Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ) (N210,000); Abdulmajeed M. Kabir, Osun State University (N50,000).

Others are: Jimoh Abubakar Sadiq, Lagos State University, (N50,000); Robert Paul-Ikhuoria, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma (N35,000); Praise Hansel, Redeemers' University (N20,000); Odewabi Ayodele, Ekiti State University, (N15,000) and Olori Babajide, Lagos State University (LASU), N15,000.

In the Senior Secondary School category, Glory Okpara won N190,000; Maduka Ebuka, N130,000; Idemudia Emmanuel, N130,000, Akogwu Ozomena, N100, 000, and Emmanuel Onwubuariri, N100,000.

Fed Govt urged to educate youths

HE Federaal Governmnt has been advised to provide quality education for its young people that would help them thrive and contribute to societal growth.

In an interview with reporters, Shantanu Prakash, an Indian and Chief Executive Officer, Educomp, a firm that provides ICT solutions for teaching and learning, said failure to do so would spell disaster for the nation.

He said: "I think that the challenges facing both countries (Nigeria and Indian) are similar. They both have young population. Countries that have young population have opportunities but there is also a danger. The opportunity is that if you train these young people and give them the right education, they can become globally productive citizens. But the danger is that, if you do not provide them the right education, they can become a demographic disaster."

From the experience Educomp has gathered running the Ambassador Nne Furo Kurubo Model Secondary School, Eleme, for the Rivers State

‘For some reasons across the world, teachers' salaries are not very high. Which means that it is difficult to attract the best talents to become teachers. If you go to the class and ask the students, how many of you want to become teachers, very few will raise their hands’

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

government, Prakash said many youths are also bright but lack quality teachers to harness their potential. He said this is so because teaching does not attract the best of brains, a problem that is not unique to Nigeria.

Continuing, he said: "For some reasons across the world, teachers' salaries are not very high. Which means that it is difficult to attract the best talents to become teachers. If you go to the class and ask the students, how many of you want to become teachers, very few will raise their hands. They want to become sportsmen, football players,

A

•Mrs Ughamadu

•Hon Adingwupu presenting a cheque to Kelechi

politicians, pilot and others. Because the sector is not able to attract the best quality, the delivery of education is not so good, even though the students are very hard working. I was at Ambassador Nne Furo Kurubo Model Secondary School, Eleme, and was really pleasantly surprised to see how disciplined the students are, how bright they are and I asked some of the Indian teachers we brought to teach Maths and Science, 'How do you find the students compared to the Indian students?' and they gave me a very frank answer. They said many of the students are even better than the students in India."

To help teachers perform better,

Prakash said ICT tools produced by the company called Edumate can make teaching and learning more interesting.

He said: "So, when you have teachers who are, unfortunately, not the best given that the society can't pool the best teachers and the students are very bright, to bridge the gap we have to use some support and Edumate is that kind of support.

"In the past 18 years, Educomp has been working tirelessly trying to find the best and the most technologically advanced method of making the student more efficient and productive; improving the curriculum interaction so that we have a better human capital base and we have been very well known across the world for a very large number of innovations. One of our products is Smart Class. Smart Class brings the power of digital content right inside the classroom. Almost every part of our world has been impacted with ICT or Information and Communication Technology."

Rather than just sell products to schools that they may not use effectively, Prakash said

School celebrates 10th anniversary

N Ajegunle, Lagos-based school Caro Favoured College has celebrated its 10th Anniversary at its premises.

Speaking at the forum, its Proprietress, Mrs Caroline N. Ughamadu, said the founding of the school was a dream come true for her, indicating that nothing is difficult to the willing mind. The primary arm of the school had been established 27 years earlier.

On what inspired her to found the secondary school, she said: "My unbriddled passion for children

By Joseph Eshanokpe

actually inspired me to venture into the education industry. I love children so much that wherever I find myself, I easily mix with them. I love teaching and training children because it is the vital part of my nature.

On the school's achievements, she said though it started with few pupils, today it has many pupils. From 2005, when its pioneer pupils sat for the West African School Certificate (WASC) exams, they have always

performed excellently, he said. She warned pupils against exam malpractice, saying those who cheat are doing themselves injustice, adding: "If you refused to read your books, definitely you will fail your examinations. In Caro Favoured College, we have zero tolerance for examination malpractice. We teach our pupils and those in the primary school to imbibe a reading culture and our secondary pupils are not left out. Pupils who engage in exam malpractice are dealt with accordingly."

•Prakash

Educomp provides training support "As you said, they have bought the computers and they are there lying in the cartons. That is a very sad situation because we are playing with the lives of the children and that is something we should not do. We don't sell these products without training. Even if it is a slow process, when we partner with the schools, we make them use them effectively, so that they will not be paying for buying it but paying for using it," he said.

Mrs Ughamadu urged the government to assist private schools.

"On the contrary, the government has not been doing anything to assist private schools; instead they compel us to pay taxes. Private schools receive assistance from banks, but must pay bloated interest rates. Nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) on their part only assist in organising seminars/workshops to educate and inform the pupils.

On advice for parents, she said: "It is very important that the parents take their dreams for their children to become in future and where they can get good value for their money before enrolling the child.”

29

‘Aunty Ngozi never died’

‘How Corps members saved my life’

Page 32

*CAMPUSES *NEWS *PEOPLE *KUDOS& KNOCKS *GRANTS

Page 34

CAMPUS LIFE

THE NATION

0805-450-3104 email: campusbeat@yahoo.com THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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

email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

The Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) has been reopened three months after a protest that led to the death of two students. The reopening came with a shocker – the suspension for six months of the Vice Chancellor, Prof Shamsudeen Amali, and other principal officers. KAMALUDDEEN ABUBAKAR (200-Level Geography) reports.

•NSUK gate

VC suspended over varsity’s closure

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AN a Vice-Chancellor (VC) be suspended? Yes, he can and we don’t have to look far to see where that has happened. It happened at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) which reopened last week after a three-month closure.

The closure followed the February 25 violence in which two students died.

Amali and others were suspended by the Visitor and Governor of Nasarawa State, Umaru Almakura.

Their suspension was part of the recommendations of a panel set up to probe what led to the closure of the school.

Prof Aminu Salihu Mukail has been appointed the Acting Vice-Chancellor.

He is a former VC of the Kaduna State

University.

Students were asked to pay N1,000 reparation fee before last Friday, failure which defaulters would pay N5,000.

The university was billed to re-open last month after the committee submitted its report. Its Registrar, Talhatu Mamman, in a statement, directed students to resume on April 28, but the government issued a statement, suspending activities on the campus indefinitely.

Penultimate Sunday, Mamman issued another statement, urging the students to resume. The following Monday, students and staff returned for academic activities. CAMPUSLIFE gathered that lectures started imme-

diately after resumption.

Our correspondent saw freshers moving round the premises to sign their clearance forms, which would authorise them to pay their school fees.

According to the academic calendar obtained by CAMPUSLIFE, the first semester is expected to end in August.

Our correspondent visited the Faculty of Natural and Applied Science where lectures were held. In one of the lecture halls, a lecturer, Dr. Mahmud Abubakar, was teaching 300-Level Geography students.

Students, who spoke to CAMPUSLIFE, were excited over the resumption but bemoaned the nonprovision of alternative source of water supply for the campus and its off-

campus hostels.

The students blocked Abuja-KeffiAkwanga highway to protest the shortage of water on the campus and its host community. Soldiers from Shittu Alao Barracks moved to the scene to disperse the protesters but in the ensuing melee, two students Emmanuel Buba, 300-Level Physics and Aminu Usman, 400-Level Geography – were hit by bullets. Their killers are yet to be identified, though the army denied that its troops were responsible for the students’ death.

After the incident, members of the Joint Committee on Education, Water Resource and Security from the Nasarawa State House of Assembly visited the institution in company of

•Prof Amali

•UI loses student-P32 •Gunmen shoot OAU student-P33

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

30

CAMPUS LIFE

Pushing Out

The trailblazer lives on

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with

HERE are lots of annoying inconsistencies in life that we would never have answers to. Why would a drug addict who can barely take care of herself keep having children when those who have the mental, physical, emotional and material resources to give a child a great future sometimes look for them in vain? Why would the armed robber and cultist who have the blood of hundreds of innocent victims on their hands live to a ripe old-age while those who strive to make humanity better die young? Why would a religious fanatic who kills at random be placated and even financially induced to “give up” his ways?

Most importantly, why do some of the best die young? This is an age-old question that has thus far not been satisfactorily answered; all we have are conjectures and human reasoning in trying to proffer answers to a question that only God Almighty can satisfactorily answer. I battled with the question too when Mrs. Ngozi Agbo, the visionary of this project and one of the best individuals I have come across, passed on. What made it even more painful was the fact that she barely glanced at the son she carried, prepared and prayed for for nine months. This unique lady died giving birth to life! Even though mortals cannot question God, in my quiet moments I sometimes asked why?

In the process of trying to unravel this I came across this piece by Rabbi Aron Moss who teaches Kabbalah, Talmud and practical Judaism in Sydney, Australia.

So, I want to leave the issues of the falling standard of education, dearth of infrastructure in our schools, ASUU, NASU etc strikes, NANS crises and the plethora of challenges confronting us as our nation and write about real life issues today.

Moss titled his piece “Where is the justice?” and it reads like this: A great debate once raged in heaven. It was over a most beautiful and precious new soul that God had created. The angels debated what should be done with this soul. One group of angels demanded that this soul remain in heaven. “She is too pure, too holy

Agbo Agbo 08052959489 (SMS only)

•aagboa@gmail.com

to face the ugliness of the lowly world,” they said.

“Who knows what will happen to her in a world of temptation and evil. This soul must stay with us here.”

But the other group of angels said the exact opposite: “Indeed, this soul glows with a unique divine glow. But for that very reason, she must go down to earth. For imagine the beauty and goodness this soul can bring to a dark world. What good is there in keeping such a soul in heaven?

Let her descend to earth and shine her light there.”

And so they argued back and forth, each side unshakable in its view. Until it became clear that they could not resolve the issue themselves, they needed a Higher Authority. The case was brought before God Almighty. The angels stated their arguments before the heavenly court. God listened to the two opinions -the first group of angel arguing that this unspoiled soul is too holy to be plunged into the lowly world, the second countering that the world needs such souls more than anything.

And this was God’s response: “Indeed, it is sad to send such an immaculate soul into such a dark world. But this is My will. I only created darkness so souls like this one can transform darkness into light. The whole purpose of creation was that the lowly world be refined by the good deeds of mortal human beings. This cannot be achieved by souls in heaven. It can only be achieved through souls in bodies. And so even this most perfect and pure soul must descend to earth.”

The first group of angels, who requested for the soul to remain in heaven, were disappointed.

They couldn’t fathom how such a spiritual being could be expected to survive such a physical world. God turned to them and said, “As for your request to keep this soul up here, I will grant it partially. Though she must leave us and go down to earth, it will not be long before she will return

VC suspended over varsity’s closure •Continued from page 29

the Special Adviser on Youth and Students’ Affair to President Goodluck Jonathan, Comrade Jude Imagwe.

Imagwe presented a N20 million cheque on behalf of the president to help solve the problem of water in and around the campus. But months after, the water crisis persists.

Mary Chukwu, 200-Level Geography, urged the leadership of the institution and government to wake up to their responsibilities. “I am happy we are back in school. I am also happy for some repairs and maintenance work being carried out on some buildings in the school. But honestly, the issue that led to the bloody protest is far from being solved. Up till now, there is no water supply within the campus. The new VC must to focus on this problem and solve it once and for all.”

Zaharadeen Yakubu, 400-Level Psychology, enjoined his colleague to put behind them the memory of the bloody riot, urging them to take their studies seriously. He said: “It is sad that we lost two of our students in the course of the February 25 protest.

I lost a course mate to the cold hand of death during the break.

But life goes on. We need to face our academic work squarely.”

A 300-Level student, who did not want his name in print, called on the new VC not to toe the path of his predecessor, urging the governor to speed up the construction work on the road that leads to the university.

He said: “Frankly speaking, there is only a little improvement

to us. Her sojourn on earth will be brief.

Such a brilliant soul will not need long to fulfill her mission. Soon she will be free to come back to heaven.”

Every day that she is on earth is a blessing, God then turned to the second group and asked, “Are you satisfied with that? Do you accept that this soul can only be on earth for a limited time?”

The angels replied, “Yes we do. Every day that she is on earth is a blessing.”

Exciting story isn’t it? My heart moved when I first read it because when a loved one passes away, we know we have lost something precious. We are left with a gaping hole in our heart, and we often wonder why they were taken away from us. But at the same time we can be grateful for the very fact that they were given to us in the first place and that they made positive impact.

We are blessed to have such beautiful souls in our lives; the world is privileged to have such heavenly guests come down on earth. And even if it can only be for a short while, we will take whatever we can get. In time all souls will be reunited. In the meantime, it pays to be thankful for the impact the individual made in his or her earthly journey.

That was how I felt a year ago when Ngozi left so suddenly, though the pain remains but I find succour in the fact that she had a vision and left that vision behind to be followed. She was a trailblazer, just like The Nation is a trailblazer in student journalism in Nigeria. She believed that Nigeria, despite the socio-economic and other challenges she faces, has the potentials of being a great nation. She believed that the potentials lie in the hands of the youth and she birthed an idea that would give them the platform to express their dreams for the nation.

Her vision was anchored on building the total man and looking at the core values and attributes that defines him, attributes that always emphasises the highest level of moral and ethical regeneration and the molding of sound character which she instilled in her “children.” She never failed to remind them that they are always a shining light to their generation, and coming into contact with these students you will realise that the objective is already bearing fruit. Does that mean her preoccupation was only with undergraduates? Absolutely not, Ngozi was also a student of leadership and those who were familiar with this column when she handled it knew too well of her passion for leadership; from leadership in the home to religious and secular leadership.

She often drove the point home to her undergraduates to steer clear of ethnic jingoists and divisive individuals who have the innate capacity of filling their minds with xenophobic ideologies that have the tendency of creating hatred, rancour and bitterness in the society.

This they can only do if they are inculcated with the right value system. The annual capacity building workshops and award ceremonies she undertook every year with the support of CocaCola Nigeria and Nigerian Bottling Company was a pointer to the fact that apart from merely sending in articles for publication, she ensured she had contact with her undergraduates to be certain that the venture they are undertaking was far bigger than having their stories published in the newspapers.

Another sterling quality of the vision is the molding of character. Ngozi was a disciplinarian and she didn’t mince words when it comes to discipline and her students knew that. I will point out two instances here.

Two weeks before her death she held her Ninth Campus Life workshop in Lagos where she invited more than 50 students from tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

Some undergraduates who could not make it to the workshop called her and pleaded that she sends them their certificate of attendance. She took her time to patiently lecture them that it is morally wrong for her to send certificate to someone who did not attend the workshop; she also told them that it was be against the tenet of what she taught them. Some called back to apologise for their misdemeanor. What actually touched me was how she linked the whole incident to the vision of Campus Life. There are countless encounters that I can’t mention here for lack of space.

There is no better epitaph to write for this bold, unique, courageous and determined lady than to say that some of her products are now living out what she taught them, her efforts were not in vain. Gbenga Ojo, now publishes Exceptional Magazine, Wale Ajetunmobi now oversees the Campuslife pages in The Nation; Faith Olaniran of FUTA runs a Youth Development programme; David Osu also of FUTA is a United Nations Ambassador on Education; Jumoke Awe runs a Girl-Child NGO, Onyinye Nkwocha runs a NGO; to uplift the students she teaches at her area of primary responsibility. Again, there are more of Ngozi’s former students contributing positively toward the development of a better society which space will not allow me to recount, they will tell their own stories someday. Meanwhile, the trailblaser lives on.

Oluwadare Adejare, 400-Level English and Literary Studies, University of Ibadan (UI), is the National President of the National Association of Students of English and Literary Studies (NASELS). He spoke to HAMMED HAMZAT (300-Level Educational Management) on his programmes for the association.

‘Unity remains our watchword’

H •The late Aminu... one of the victims

in the school. The water problem has not been resolved despite the Federal Government’s cash donation to sink boreholes. No single borehole has been inaugurated.

The construction, which started long ago, is yet to be completed. I welcome the new VC but I want to bring to his notice that, aside the water shortage, students also face challenges such as low staff strength, inadequate lecture rooms and accommodation problem.”

A trader on the campus, who deals in second-hand ladies’ shoes and bags, said business was gradually coming up after the resumption. “Nna, market don dey move o. No be like before when we no dey see any customer from morning go reach evening.”

OW would you describe your victory at the last NASELS convention?

I ascribe my victory to Almighty God. The convention took place at the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka. It was a keenly contested election. Three strong aspirants from three geopolitical zones contested against me. The election was properly organised and I was elected. It was a good outing for me.

How do you intend to integrate some tertiary institutions that are not part of NASELS? After we came on board, the association worked tirelessly to accommodate other institutions that are not under the umbrella body. We have been able to achieve some progress with institutions such as Babcock University, Veritas University, Covenant University, Madonna University, Tai Solarin University of Education joining the national body. Very soon, Ajayi Crowther University, Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo and the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo will be

•Oluwadare

part of us. Without fear of contradiction, I can say NASELS remains a fast growing association at the departmental level in terms of structure, size and responsibilities.

What are the challenges confronting the association?

Well, there is no gain without pain.

I can say that funding has been the greatest challenge before us. The bulk of the money used in financing the association’s activities comes from dues collected from all chapters. But then, some chapters would remit their dues late. This hinders the progress of the association. The leaders of the association will have to travel to all schools across the six geopolitical zones in the country to ensure active participation of its members. We do

this to ensure that unity which is the hallmark of the association thrives.

How did your association receive the news of the death of Chinua Achebe, a literary icon?

In fact, we are sad by the death and we share in the grief of Achebe’s family. His death is a great loss for all literature students. The fact remains that Prof Achebe used his pen to correct some of the beliefs people have about Africans. His book, Things Fall Apart, will continue to be exemplary in creative writing. It is not an understatement to say the whole world will miss Achebe.

What should members expect from your administration?

We are working hard not to leave the association the way we met it. Presently, we are working on integrating all higher institutions into the national body in order to strengthen the association. In terms of programmes and policies, we are changing the tradition of the association where the national executive will wait for one year before it can organise the International Conference of Students of English and Literary Studies (ICOSELS). This has been our major focus. We want to change things by encouraging creativity through the organisation of a programmes that will engage the minds of members. To this end, we are organising the maiden edition of Prof Remi Raji Inter-varsity Oratory Contest between June 26 and 28. We are looking forward to host about 40 tertiary institutions at the University of Ibadan. The programme is to engage the minds of the youths in critical thinking towards the development of our country.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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CAMPUS LIFE NGOZI THERESA AGBO (1975-2012) A year after her demise, students from across campuses have continued to pay tributes to the late CAMPUSLIFE ‘girl’ Mrs. Ngozi Agbo. GILBERT ALASA (400-Level Foreign Languages, University of Benin) and DHIKRU AKINOLA (400-Level Political Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) spoke to some of them and ex-CAMPUSLIFE writers.

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‘Aunty Ngozi never died’

OW time flies! It has been 367 days since former CAMPUSLIFE Editor Mrs. Ngozi Agbo died. To her many students on campuses across the nation, Aunty Ngozi, as the late Mrs. Agbo was fondly called, lives on.

Many of them are still crying and asking God why He chose to call their mentor to heaven. To them, Aunty Ngozi’s death had robbed the youth of a gem who could have redeemed more lives from the path of criminality.

As CAMPUSLIFE coordinator, Mrs. Agbo, through her column, engaged many students and youths productively. She told them to stop complaining about what the government failed to do for them. She encouraged them, through personal and open counselling, to put take destinies in their hands by discovering their talents and abilities.

Mrs. Agbo died on Monday, May 28, 2012 after she was delivered of a baby boy at the General Hospital, Abule-Egba, Lagos. Her death was as a result of complications after childbirth. Last Tuesday, it was a year Aunty Ngozi died. But, to many students she never died.

She lives on in their hearts and in her legacies. Tributes have continued to pour in for her from her ‘children’ on campuses.

Tributes The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Yinka Gbadebo, in a statement, said: “The NANS remembers the late Editor of the popular CAMPUSLIFE being published by The Nation newspaper, Mrs Ngozi Agbo. Our thoughts are with the management of the newspaper and the family of the deceased.”

– NANS Aunty Ngozi will continue to linger in the minds of students across tertiary institutions. We have lost our guardian angel. Since her death, campus journalism has not been the same again. I can never quantify what I have gained over the years from reading her educative column, Pushing Out. – Valour Iduh, 400 Level Foreign Languages, UNIBEN Aunty Ngozi lived a life of selftranscendence as postulated by Abraham Maslow. There are two kinds of human beings in the world: those who exist and those who live.

Those who exist merely journey through life. But those whose existence changed the course of human history are the ones that live better life. Aunty Ngozi lived such a life and remained an embodiment of impact and value. Even in her death, her ideas are still changing lives across campuses till today.

– Donald Anavhe, 400-Level Political Science, Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma I got to know the late Aunty Ngozi Agbo through CAMPUSLIFE. The first time my story was published in The Nation newspaper, I took the paper everywhere I went that day. It was on

September 15, 2010. I became a hero or sort; every campus association wanted me in their fold. When the Asiwaju Leadership Forum was founded in my state, I was made the publicity secretary and media adviser. All these could not have been possible if not for what Aunty Ngozi started through her initiative.

She was a rare bred. I must confess that the weekly publication has been able to address some critical issues on campuses. – Afolabi Oni, ex-Campus Life writer and English graduate of OAU Aunty Ngozi, my beloved name sake. You were a renaissance woman; a beautiful lady inside out.

I am still missing you. Every minute I think about you, I always feel like you never died. You remain my role model, mentor, sister and mother.

You were the most disciplined and straightforward personality I have ever come across. I still remember when death came calling; it is just like yesterday. I remember how you smiled at me and told me to fatten up. Aunty Ngozi, I still carry you in my spirit. I remember the day I got a call that you had left; tears could not express how inconsolable I was. I cried as I kept on dialing your phone line; but you never picked. I still don’t believe that my Aunty is gone. My mentor, my love, my namesake and role model. I will always remember you. – Ngozi Emmanuel, Mass Comm. graduate from UNIZIK), Awka Aunty Ngozi is not dead, she is still alive. Though physically we cannot see her, her legacies live on.

Death has done its worst and we, her children, have survived the agony it brought. She will forever be remembered; she will forever be in my mind and that of many young Nigerians that had gone through her tutelage. Sleep on Aunty. – Dayo Ojerinde, a Corps member, NYSC, Keffi, Nasarawa State Remembrance is a golden chain death tries to break, but all its effort is in vain. To have, to love, and then to part is the greatest sorrow of one’s heart. The years may wipe out many things, but some they never wipe ou – like memories of those happy times when we were all together. To a mentor, I remember you today. Sleep on in the bosom of your Creator. – Faith Olaniran, Biochemistry graduate from FUT MINNA My heart is still in pain even though it is a year since Aunty Ngozi left us. I saw her a few days to her death, with her heavy tummy. Aunty was a motivator, a rare gem, a teacher, a mother, a sister, an innovator and a creative woman par excellence. She empowered many of us with her ideas. She helped to clean the streets of this country of crimes.

Who would have believed his/her name would feature in a national daily such as The Nation newspaper? Aunty Ngozi made this possible through her initiative.

I remember how aunty used to call me on phone concerning my

•The late ‘Aunty’ Ngozi (right) listening to Hannah Ojo from OAU during the 6th CAMPUSLIFE Workshop session

articles, telling me how to be a good writer. I was a bad writer until Aunty redefined my writing skill.

I miss Aunty a lot. Her death came to many of us as a rude shock but we are consoled by the fact that she left Chima, her baby and CAMPUSLIFE, her project that has affected many of us positively. Habeeb Whyte, 500-Level Law, UNILORIN I still miss her. I pray God should give all of us the fortitude to bear the loss. It is a sad incident I don’t like remembering. – Opeoluwa Sonuga, 400-Level Law, OAU: I am still sad. I only saw her once and had been looking forward to another encounter with her when death struck. I am consoled by the fact that she impacted many lives within the short period she lived.

– Caleb Adebayo, 400-Level Law, OAU: I met Aunty Ngozi just a week before her untimely death. She was so welcoming. Her CAMPUSLIFE project remains incomparable even though other newspapers now copy the initiative. I would not have attained this height without her.

May God repose her. – Femi Ogunjobi, 400-Level Language Arts, OAU Through her youth development initiative, Aunty Ngozi etched her name in gold. When others were doing the same thing, she opted for something new and, today, that concept has been copied. – Wilberforce Arevore, 400-Level Language Arts, OAU I was shocked when Wale Ajetunmobi called me on May 28, 2012 to break the news of Aunty Ngozi’s death. That’s not true, I muttered. But then, I knew Wale could not be cracking jokes with Aunty’s life. I logged on to Facebook and I saw the truth. Oh, Aunty Ngozi! We must thank God for protecting her baby. My prayer is that God should continue to protect him in Jesus name. Continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ till we meet to part no more. Adieu, my mentor in journalism. – Tunmise Oladipo, English graduate, UNILORIN May 28, 2012 was a bad day for Nigerian youths and the teeming campus writers across the nation.

An Iroko fell on that day. The news shook the entire campuses. A cru-

sader of due process, a senior advocate of Nigerian students, an Amazon, a heroine with beauty and brains died. Aunty Ngozi, you were a patriotic citizen that I will always describe as a fountain from which many drew their waters; a mentor to many youths. Indeed, women of your status and qualities are not easy to come by. Through my interaction and work with you, I understood that you were a woman of high integrity with a strong drive for change and development. In pursuit of your goal, you taught us perseverance, patience and tenacity.

It was via the vision of CAMPUSLIFE that gave birth to campus-centred pages in many national dailies today. The vision will never die. You left it in good hands.

We will not disappoint you. We will impact lives and make marks in our world. Aunty Ngozi, you are not dead. You live in us forever. – Gerald Nwokocha, graduate of Information Technology, FUTO A year on, yet it feels like yesterday. Aunty Ngozi, I still wish you were here. The CAMPUSLIFE family has not been the same. We could not have wished for a better you; it’s been difficult flipping through the pages without thoughts of you.

You became our source of wisdom yet never waited on to reap from where you have sown. Words fail me to recount how big your heart was, accommodating all of us from diverse backgrounds and parts of the country. From South to the North, and to the West and back to the East, your children flourish and keep the dream alive. You overlooked our mistakes and molded us into perfect examples of how a youth should behave. You were the uncommon mother who was building the nation, giving us hope with the CAMPUSLIFE project. That dream we must continue to nurture.

Aunty Ngozi, you were our finest Amazon who went out of her way to boost our self-esteem as student-writers. Now, we believe in ourselves and it is amazing what we can accomplish with our lives.

You will live long in our hearts, Aunty Ngozi. – Geoffrey Eneyo, Lagos Law School, Lagos Immortality for man is attained when he has held the door to life open for others to go through. Even when the door closes and he is on the other side of the door, everyone knows who ushered them in.

Live forever in our hearts, Aunty Ngozi. I miss you. – Onyinye Nkwocha, English graduate of

IMSU, Owerri I know I miss a mother, Aunty Ngozi. Yet I am very sure she’s not dead. This has always been my joy, my hope and even my dream not to die just as she’s not dead. The CAMPUSLIFE vision is still alive.

See the generals it has continued to breed from all parts of the world.

This is the true measure of success, of leadership, and of motherhood.

Being able to pass on the ‘greatness’ to others, especially in a society where greatness is scarce, remains our solace. It also determines the longevity of your life. You lived for 36 years, but I tell you, you live on forever. You will be remembered by the people you inspired, nurtured and raised to surpass the sky.

Aunty Ngozi’s dreams live on. – David Osu, 400-Level Urban and Regional Planning, FUT MINNA Aunty Ngozi was a quintessential woman. She was, during her lifetime, a source of inspiration to several youths spread across tertiary institutions. Aunty did not only give me my first bye-line, she made me believe that there is nothing I cannot do. She was like a fine rose, for her flagrance touched a good number of people. Aunty encouraged me to work hard. She would call and at the end of the call, remind me that I should, at all times, aspire to be the best that I could be.

CAMPUSLIFE was her brainchild, and it is indeed refreshing to know that this child lived on. Aunty lives on forever in the strong rooms of our hearts. Sleep well. - Uche Anichebe, 500-Level Law, UNIZIK I looked through the pages, but you were not to be found. Yet, you were closer to us. A year after your departure, your thought remains evergreen. You live in our hearts and we will always remember and keep your legacy. RIP Aunty Ngozi.

- Chinenye Okonkwo, a graduate of UNICAL It is a year since you left me, you left baby Chima, you left your beloved husband, you left CAMPUSLIFE. Aunty Ngozi, what more can I say? Your legacy cannot be erased, your footprint remains so clear. My eyes are filled with tears for my role model and my mother. What I am today is based on the discipline you inculcated in me. You did not only teach me how to write, you taught me discipline. You remain in my heart forever. - Hope Ofobike, Mass Communication graduate, UNIJOS

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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CAMPUS LIFE

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UI loses student

ARELY two weeks after Deborah Odunayo, an Education student of the University of Ibadan (UI) was crushed to death by a bank vehicle, the university community has again been thrown into mourning with the death of a Civil Engineering student last week.

Mohammed Bankole, 400-Level student, died after he was struck by unknown ailment. He gave up the ghost at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

Before he breathed his last, Mohammed was said to have sat for an examination, which he managed to write in the institution’s health centre.

The late Mohammed was described as a“reserved person” by

Gunmen shoot OAU student

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From Adebisi Adeniji UI

his friend, Habeeb Kolade, 400Level Mechanical Engineering.

Oluwasegun Oyeleye, the deceased’s classmate, described the late Mohammed as “cool-headed and quiet”. He said: “Mohammed was a quiet student and he never had issues with anybody. He will be greatly missed.” Another classmate, Dennis Popoola, described the deceased as intelligent and calm.

The remains of the late Mohammed have since been interred in his Ota home, Ogun State. When CAMPUSLIFE visited Civil Engineering Department, the members of staff and students gathered to

•The late Mohammed

discuss the incident, with many of them praying that premature death be put to end in the school.

Student feeds 500 pupils

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HE Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences (CIS), University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Prof Lenrie Aina, has identified dearth of academic staff, irregular admission processes and shortage of facilities as the major challenges facing the five-year-old faculty.

He disclosed this at a press briefing with newsmen to unveil the programme lined up to mark the fifth anniversary of the faculty.

Aina noted that some professionals the faculty would have employed as academic staff had been hijacked by the telecommunication and media industries with higher salaries.

“Many graduates whom we could have employed as lecturers had opted to work in the telecommunication industries because of the higher salaries being offered by these firms,” he said.

According to him, over 6,000 applicants yearly applied to study in the faculty, with the Department of Mass Communication having the highest number of candidates.

He said the faculty could only admit a maximum of 200 students due to the shortage of academic staff and facilities.

The Dean hoped that the faculty would expand its facilities with donations from corporate indi-

From Adebayo Caleb OAU

attackers riddled his body with bullets. As Pelumi was bleeding, the attackers, who witnesses said were robbers, left with the victim’s girlfriend.

The victim, drenched in blood, crawled to the security post at Road One Gate, where he called for help.

He was immediately rushed to the university’s Teaching Hospital. His girlfriend was, however, dropped on the Ife-Ibadan Expressway near Oduduwa University.

CAMPUSLIFE gathered the shot student has been discharged and recovering at undisclosed location.

The university has beefed up security around the campus and urged students to be alert and security conscious.

Kwara students suspend president

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MASTER’S student of the Lagos Business School (LBS), Oluwagbemileke Otun, has reached out to pupils of Ogombo Primary School, Ogombo Village, Lekki, with food and books.

Oluwagbemileke, founder of Ten for Ten Accessories, an outfit that started as an entrepreneurial project in LBS post-graduate class, said the gesture was part of her firm’s effort to give back to society.

Oluwagbemileke started her medium-scale business with a loan of N5,000 given to students with the criterion to make N5,000 profit weekly for three months. The aim of the initiative was to use the accrued interest to provide scholarships to indigent children.

Oluwagbemileke’s outfit sells quality accessories, such as wrist watches, earrings and others. She is committed to ameliorating hunger and malnutrition in Nigeria.

At the school, where she donated the materials, about 500 pupils benefitted.

Oluwagbemileke was accompanied by LBS Master’s Programmes Director, Dr Nubi Achebo, and her colleagues.

The pupils were excited as they received the free lunch, dancing with the students.

The event also featured a quiz competition, where the pupils competed

CHEMICAL Engineering student of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife,who was identified as Pelumi Taiwo, has been shot by unknown assailants outside the campus.

Acording to a statement by the Security Unit of OAU, the victim was in his car with his girlfriend about 9pm on Friday when the incident occurred.

Pelumi, it was learnt, initially stopped his vehicle on the Ede Road to pick a female acquaintance.

While he was waiting for his friend at a bushy part of the road, the assailants approached him and pointed a gun at him.

He was ordered to move to the back seat. Pelumi was said to have pleaded with the gunmen, but the

•Achebo (right) presenting books to one of the quiz winners as Oluwagbemileke (left) and Arohundara look on From Funke Ayoola LAGOS

in Mathematics, English and Current Affairs. Winners were given books as prizes.

She described the donation as a fulfilment of her commitment to join the fight against hunger and malnutrition in Nigeria.

“For every accessory that is worth N10, 000 which people buy, we feed 10 children. The reasons for pursuing this cause are: in Africa, more than one-quarter of children under five are underweight. Malnutrition is still a major cause of child mortality in Africa, where one in five children will never live to see their

fifth birthday.

The Head Teacher of the school, Mr Sarafa Iyiowun, who was represented by his Assistant, Mr Ayuba Arohundara, commended the gesture, saying the donation would go a long way to encourage the pupils to face their studies.

In his remark, Achebo advised the pupils to face their studies and to always care for people when they grow older.

He said: “Hunger and malnutrition are the main challenges in Africa, which pose great threat to education. Lagos Business School supports students’ activities that are entrepreneurial and add values to the society.

Dean bemoans staff shortage From Hameed Muritala UNILORING

viduals and organisations during the anniversary celebrations.

Speaking on the anniversary, Aina said the CIS faculty was designed to take full advantage of multidisciplinary interactions of the science and technologies of computing, information and communication, adding that its curricula had been designed to reflect the reality.

He said the faculty had recorded remarkable achievements within a short period, stressing that the faculty spearheaded the development of courseware in the university, which according to him, was aimed at taking the institution to e-learning platform for course delivery.

The Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences (CIS) was formally established via the decision of the university Senate at its 193rd (Special) meeting held on June 20, 2008. Part of the decisions in the meeting was the movement of department such as Computer Science from the Faculty of Science to CIS; The faculty comprised five de-

partments including Computer Science, Mass Communication, Library and Information Sciences (LIS), Telecommunication Sciences (TCS) and Information and Communication Sciences (ICS).

T its eighth sitting, the legislative arm of the National Association of Kwara State Students (NAKSS) has suspended the president of the association, Aziz Olalekan Bamigboye, a student of University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) and Treasurer, Alamo Jamiu, a student of Kwara State College of Education (Technical), Lafiagi. The suspension is indefinite and took immediate effect.

Members of the parliament met in Hall Five of Kwara State

Student donates to orphans

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S part of activities to mark his birthday, Joel Adeniyi, 400-Level part time student of Criminology and Social Work, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), has donated materials to Grace Orphanage home in Akure, Ondo State.

The donation was made in collaboration with Minds and Moments Initiative, a students’ group, which comprised undergraduates spread across Ondo and Ekiti states.

Food items and tissue papers were donated to orphans in the home, while the celebrant cut his birthday with the motherless children.

Speaking on the rationale behind

From Dayo Ojerinde NYSC

College of Education, Ilorin, last week, to take the decision.

The Vice President (Administrative) has been ordered to assume the leadership of the association in the interim. The offence of the suspended officers according to a source, who preferred to be anonymous, included gross misconduct, abuse of office, mismanagement of association funds, and disregard for senate resolution.

Efforts to reach the suspended officials for comment were futile.

From Dayo Ojerinde NYSC

the gesture, Joel cited biblical reference in James 1:27, which obligated people to look after orphans and widows.

He said; “The orphans are special set of people not to be forgotten in our world today. They are also created by God but fell victim to circumstances beyond their control. They have future and they are also leaders of tomorrow.

Many of them have grown up to be great personalities in life. They also have right to live. Therefore, they deserve to be remembered and catered for. They deserve to be given sense of belonging and not to be neglected.”

Official of the orphanage home, who simply identified herself as Miss Ruth, who received Joel and his colleagues, said words alone would not be enough to appreciate the celebrant’s gesture towards the children. She challenged youths and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the gesture.

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.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

CAMPUS LIFE If not for some Corps members, Yohanna Daniel, a senior Secondary School (SSS3) pupil, would have been dead by now. He was about to commit suicide following a road crash that led to the amputation of his right leg when Corps members in Gadabuke Development Area of Nasarawa State came to his rescue. DAYO OJERINDE (Corps member, NYSC Keffi) tells Yohanna’s story.

‘How Corps members saved my life’

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OHANNA Daniel, a Senior Secondary School (SSS) 3 pupil of Unity High School in Gadabuke Development Area of Nasarawa State, contemplated suicide after several months of battling with gangrene on his right leg. He had an accident on a motorcycle while travelling to Gadabuke Town from his village. The motorcycle collided with an oncoming car.

He was unconscious for several hours after the accident. When he opened his eyes, he found himself at Godiya Private Hospital, Gadabuke, where sympathisers rushed him to after the crash.

His right leg was damaged and the medical personnel told him he would require an operation.

His parents made funds available for the operation. But after a series of operations, which Yohanna said the hospital handled carelessly, the pains persisted. Rather than heal, the leg began to decay.

Having exhausted themselves, Yohanna’s parents could not provide funds for another operation.

Apparently frustrated, Yohanna said he began to think of suicide. He said if he died, the pain would disappear. He said he had a dream of becoming a successful professional, but life became unbearable for him because of the pains.

Corps members serving in Gadabuke Town changed his suicide plan. Through their Community Development Service (CDS), the Corps members. They contributed their monthly allowance to enable

‘If the Corps members did not come to my rescue, I would have committed suicide because of the pains I was passing through after the accident and after the first careless operation I had’ Yohanna undergo another round of surgery at the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, where Yohanna’s leg was amputated to stop the decay.

Speaking on what motivated the Corps members, the CDS Coordinator, Jeffery Igbuzor, said: “This boy lives close to my house. I felt the pain he was going through because the doctor that operated the leg after the accident did a bad job. I informed my colleagues about the agony of the pupil at a CDS meeting we had. They all supported the idea and we moved it.”

Asked about the challenges they encountered, Jeffery said: “We could not get all the funds requested at the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi. Many of us had to contribute from our meagre stipends.

We also went round the schools in Gadabuke Development Area to seek for money. Some principals supported us while some promised to get

back to us.”

The Corpers’ Liaison Officer (CLO) in the area, who was present in the hospital during the surgery, said: “We appreciate the effort of our Local Inspector (LI), Mr Moses Adamolekun, who was supportive during the period. He could have rejected the whole idea in the first place but he encouraged us and even visited the hospital to check on the boy after the surgery. All Corps members in Gadabuke took the issue of this boy as their personal project.”

When CAMPUSLIFE visited him, Yohanna, who could hardly speak, broke down in tears, saying: “If the Corps members did not come to my rescue, I would have committed suicide because of the pains I was passing through after the accident and after the first careless operation I had.

I will return to school as soon as the wound is healed.”

Adamolekun said: “When the Corps members informed about the condition of Yohanna, my heart literally melted. I told them that this is a task we must do to save the life of the boy. In a way, we have tried our best, and we will not stop there; an artificial leg is important too. We want this boy to be on his feet again, though with an artificial leg. I believe with God, everything is possible.”

The lad is in need of an artificial leg, the Corps members said would cost N150,000. Having contributed from their personal finance, the Corps members urged philanthropists across the nation to join in giving Yohanna’s life a meaning.

•Yohanna sitting at the front of his family’s compund before the amputation

Members of the Redeemed Christian Fellowship (RCF), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State chapter, went for a three-day retreat with the theme: “On eagles’ wings’ at Ifewara in Ife East Local Government Area of the state. One of them, OLUWAFEMI OGUNJOBI (400-Level Language Arts) reports.

•Students cleaning the venue before the event

•The students in prayer session

W

HEN they converged on the Students’ Union building car park, their colleagues, who were rushing to lectures, thought they were going on a protest. The crowd built up to about 700 students. Then, buses arrived to convey them to the Ifewara camp ground, where they were going to “work and labour” for God. It was this year’s edition of The Redeemed Christian Fellowship Workers’ Retreat. The three-day event is held yearly by a joint assembly of subgroups and bodies in the fellowship to serve God and to improve their spiritual weaknesses.

The students were received at the

Bethlehem Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Ifewara, Osun State. The President of the fellowship, Elijah Oyewole, said the theme for the retreat, On eagles’ wings, was commissioned by God through a revelation he received at the beginning of his tenure. “It is revelation that got to do with vision and focus. Soaring on eagles’ wings is not in our power but to operate in the utmost grace,” Elijah explained.

Members of the fellowship gathered at the camp to consecrate their souls; they held prayers for hours.

Zacchaeus Adedokun, former president of the fellowship, spoke to the participants. He stressed the need for believers to be sensitive and move in consonant with the word

Working in God’s vineyard of God. He noted that soaring on eagle’s wings was not for angels but men.

Afterwards, the students rose in prayers for the country. They prayed for peace in all troubled spots in Nigeria and beyond. “Lord, let your peace reign,” they chorused.

To refresh the atmosphere of spiritual warfare, the fellowship’s choir group led the congregation into the presence of God with gospel music.

Ministers were moving round to listen to members on issues affecting their wellbeing as Christians and students.

The participants relaxed for four hours, after which another round of prayer was held.

The fellowship’s Bible Study Secretary, Ayodele Olusola, took the participants on lesson of stewardship.

Reading from Luke 16:1-13 and 2Timothy 2:3, Ayodele charged the students to be alive to their responsibilities and be stewards in the vineyard of God. “Some of us might be standing but still idle. The heartbeat of God at this time is for us to stretch ourselves for Him while holding the

fort. We should work for Him with the understanding that we are working for our Father,” he charged.

A participant, Oluwasegun Allen, 300-Level Architecture, said: “I am so glad to be a worker in God’s vineyard. I felt God’s presence and love during the retreat.”

Adetola Adeeko described the retreat as refreshing moment in the presence of God. “I encountered the power of God in a new dimension, most importantly, the expository messages on the theme,” he said.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

35

CAMPUS LIFE

“T

HANK God, Aunty didn’t arrive before me,” I told myself as I walked into the newsroom, sweating profusely. It was 9:15am on Tuesday.

Her ‘lateness’ on the day was unusual, so I sat gently and hurriedly turned on our computer to ‘convince’ her that I had been in the office since 8am.

Barely 15 minutes later, Aunty hollered behind the entrance door to the newsroom: “Bikko Wale, come and open this door for me jare.” I ran to the door but Mr Daniel Essiet, The Nation’s Agric Correspondent, was faster. “Ha, see these two men rushing to open the door for a small girl like me,” she quipped jovially.

“Ngozi, you know we have to respect the two hefty boys inside,” was Essiet’s repartee, pointing to her protruded tummy. Paroxysm of laughter greeted the banters.

I helped her with her handbag but she needed to use the restroom.

As she came out, I saw her opening the Editor’s office to fetch her laptop. “Oh my God! Aunty came before me,” I whispered to myself as though there was ever a time she met me in the office, something she had complained about several times. Aunty Ngozi had arrived in the office by 6:40am, when I was still tossing on my bed.

I was waiting for her to say something on my lateness but Aunty Ngozi blurted: “Wale, you won’t believe I had to go to the bank to make part-payment for the hotel we are using this weekend in cash.

The cheque I gave to ‘Citilodge people’ bounced because the

‘Our last moments…’ money in my GTB account was not up to N1.5 million. I had to go to bank immediately to cash The Nation’s cheque; I was the first person that entered the banking hall of Diamond Bank (Ladipo Branch) this morning. But I was delayed because of this CBN cashless policy wahala.”

We both laughed as I set up her laptop for her to write Pushing Out, her column for her, for the week. I asked why she didn’t call on me to do the running around, she replied: “I didn’t want to disturb you, young man. I knew you left here late yesterday.” That was the end of Solomon Gandhi, as she would always end all her conversation.

The scenario painted above took place exactly two weeks before her death. The following Monday after the CAMPUS LIFE Workshop held on May 18 – 20, 2012, Aunty Ngozi could not come to office due to stress. She told me to send stories to her personal email; she would work from home. I did.

But on Tuesday, she was in the office. As usual, she arrived before me. When she called to know where I was, I told her my dad sent me on an errand to Surulere. She said: “No problem, just be quick.”

About 30 minutes later, she called me back. “Wale, I need to leave the office now; I am going home. One of my neighbours just called me that the girl I brought from the village has allowed a

stranger into my house. I don’t know the person. I must go home now. I will send my column from the house.” That was it. I came to the office later to finish the production.

On Thursday, she telephoned me to ask if I had been given my appointment letter. I told her there was none. She promised to see the Editor the following week about my employment. On Sunday, she sent an email to me, detailing how the week’s production would look like. She later called to add that she would not come to the office because “I am in my week”. I decoded the meaning of the expression.

On Monday, May 28, I resumed for work early. I called her two mobile phones, but both had been switched off. “This is unusual,” I said as I put a call through to her husband, who simply told me: “You can’t talk to her now. She will call you later.” I understood the expression. I prayed for her “safe delivery” and continued with production.

In the evening of the same day, I noticed a strange stare from everyone in the newsroom. A page planner asked me if I had spoken to Aunty Ngozi on the day. Since I didn’t want anyone to know she was in labour room, so I answered ‘yes’. Later, Chidiebere Umeorizu, Aunty’s niece, also called me and asked where I was. I told her I was in the office. She ended the call

Igbo names such as Chinwemmeri (victory belongs to God), Amarachi (God’s favour), Ugochi (God’s special eagle), Uchenna (the will of the father) and Tiv names such as Terna (God gives), Dooshima (beautiful lady) among others clearly bring to the front burner the passion attached to names in all cultures.

A name given to a child is one thing and the influence the name has on the bearer is another thing.

In as much as it has been established that we do not determine our names at birth - our parents and relatives do, unless one grows up to think otherwise - most times, if not eternally, we grow up to appreciate those names and try to live up to the meaning and standard of the name.

And when such things happen we have no option than to believe that our parents and relatives spoke the mind of God when they give us names. For, it will be an embarrassment both in heaven and on earth for someone who bears Nwachukwu (God’s child), for instance, to go to hell.

In the Nigerian political arena, every Dick, Tom and Harry has a reason to believe that the name “Goodluck” has positively affected President Goodluck Jonathan, going by the way he climbed the rung of the political ladder without

‘sweat’ and struggle unlike many, who struggled through the eye of the needle to get elected for a seat in the local government.

As an individual with a very good name, I have also heard and called several other names and have also associated myself with those bearing the names. One of such names is Ngozi.

I have met a number of people, who bear the name but I can’t recall if any of them has influenced my life as much as the late Ngozi Agbo (nee Nwozor), the late Editor of CAMPUSLIFE. Ngozi is an Igbo name that means blessing. The subject of this piece is someone who lived up to her name in her life time.

As a child, I had dreamt of becoming a writer. And whatever it is that I had written did not find its way beyond the notebook in which it was written. To me, it was like a fairy tale to know that I would one day be published in a widely read national newspaper just by writing and submitting.

But Ngozi made me realise that whatever one believes in will definitely work for him only if he is on the right track. Through Ngozi, I saw my articles published in The Nation newspaper. To me, it was a dream come true and Ngozi Nwozor made it possible.

Aunty Ngozi, as we all fondly

right away. I didn’t sense what was going on.

Who broke the sad news? It was around 9:45pm. I was about leaving the office. Mr Olukorede Yishau, Assistant Editor (News), asked me to see him in his car. I sat gently but he asked me if I had spoken to Aunty Ngozi that day. I opened up: “She was in labour room when I called her husband this morning.” Swiftly, Yishau said: “Ngozi gave birth today….”

I was happy. “…but we lost her”.

“We lost who, sir?” I asked, shuddering. “Wale, Ngozi is dead!” Oh my God, what a sad news to end a very busy day. For 20 minutes, tears rolled down my cheeks without a sign that the ducts would go dry any moment. A better part of me had just been pronounced dead.

Then, my mind raced to the day I first met her in 2009. The circumstance and the personality that made our paths to cross. My first day at work with her; why she wanted me to be a journalist and not an industrial chemist.

Her relationship with my parents; her instistence that, despite being a Muslim, I must attend her youth programme in her church without that stopping me from going to the mosque to observe my solat (prayer). Her care and affection for my nephew, whose mother died five days after childbirth.

The secret she told me about her past and personal life three weeks

By Wale Ajetunmobi before her death; her struggle in the newsroom with colleagues; the philosophy that propelled her personality and her dislikes. But all these are all discourses for another day, which I will write about by God’s grace.

The sad affair became more poignant not because Yishau broke the news to me, but because I opened the newspaper hours after to see the tragic prefix that reads “late” before Aunty’s beautiful name, which means “blessing”. It was then it dawned on me that I would not see my boss again.

A year after, my tear ducts have not dried for the loss of a mother, sister, boss and confidant, (Aunty) Ngozi Theresa Agbo. Farewell Aunty!

Wale, who worked with the late Mrs Agbo, now co-ordinates CAMPUSLIFE

Ngozi: A name and its blessing

By Obioma Okezie

O

NE of the most beautiful questions ever asked by a mortal is the one, which William Shakespeare made a character called Juliet to ask in his play Romeo and Juliet. She asked: “What is in a name?”

Most times I try to ponder on this question and as I reflect on it, I try to imagine what parents would have had in mind while christening their new born babies or anything they cherish.

In a traditional Igbo setting as well as other cultures, names are mainly given based on life experiences, period of baby’s birth, victory in war, delay in child birth, and survival from certain mysterious circumstances among other things.

W

HEN she died a year ago, we, her children from campuses, cried as if our tears would bring her back from the land of the dead. But when her remains were buried about three weeks later, it dawned on us that she won’t come back. Mrs Ngozi Agbo, our amiable Editor, departed this world in flesh but in spirit, she remains with us.

She left a priceless project for us to continue. But many have asked: “How will the project continue without Aunty Ngozi? How can it be sustained?”

Today, the story is entirely different. Not only that the project has fared well; it is still alive and kicking. I am talking about CAMPUSLIFE section of The Na-

called her, was a blessing to my generation. Whatever was in the mind of her parents that made them to christen her Ngozi may not have been clear to us but one thing her family should forever be grateful for is that Aunty Ngozi lived up to her name. While she was alive, she remained an endless blessing to my generation.

As the Editor and Co-ordinator of CAMPUSLIFE, she gave many youths in our nation the map to discover their God-given talents. She believed so much in the youth and their ability to effect positive changes in Nigeria.

Her demise at the age of 36 is heartrending but we are consoled by the fact that her 36 years on earth were loaded with blessings, which she did not keep to herself and her family members. She spread the blessings to whoever she came in contact with.

A philosopher once said “age is compulsory but wisdom is optional”. At 36, Aunty Ngozi possessed the agility of a seven-yearold and the wisdom of a 70-yearold. History has recorded that most men and women whose names still glow like a candle light lived and achieved notable things tagged with their names in a short time they lived on earth.

For instance, Jesus Christ, our saviour, did not have to live to eter-

nity to save us; he gave us salvation in his early 30s. Alexander the Great, with all the glory his name bears, achieved all he did in 33 years, three years younger than our own Aunty Ngozi.

St. Theresa, whose name Aunty Ngozi also answered, lived a short life. The few years she lived were spent rendering selfless service and doing unforgettable things for Jesus Christ and for humanity.

To all of us, her students, Aunty Ngozi left us quite early, but to heaven, she may have done the will of her Creator; so we cannot question heaven. If we want to ask God any question about her death, we should first ask ourselves if we had a hand in Aunty Ngozi’s creation in the first instance.

We can only take solace in the fact that her way of life and philosophy made light to reflect in the lives of many youths, who would have gone astray and lost focus of their destinies. Aunty Ngozi, even in death, remains a blessing to the country.

As we continue to remember her and her good works, we can’t help but thank God that her life was a paradigm to be followed by all of us.

Physically, she is not with us but Aunty Ngozi lives on.

Obioma, is an ex- Campus Life correspondent, ABSU

Sweet is the memory of the good tion newspaper. The campuscentred pullout in this great newspaper has helped to raise many journalists in higher institutions across the nation.

Aunty Ngozi is no more today but we are still remembering her good works she left behind.

Indeed, sweet is the memory of the good but how many people do well?

After her demise, the Press Club of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) organised a lecture in her memory tagged: Raising fearless campus writers: A dream to change Nigeria. The lecture was held in the Education Hall of the

institution with dignitaries such as Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented by Mr Olakunle Abimbola, Chief Press Secretary to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Mr Lekan Otufodunrin, Online Editor, The Nation newspaper; Mr Deji Elumoye, Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalist (NUJ), Lagos chapter, who was represented by Mr Jimoh Babatunde; Mr Agbo Agbo, the widower, and journalists from other media houses.

In continuation of this great legacy in honour of the departed gem, who dared to be different, this year’s edition of the Annual

Ngozi Agbo Media Lecture will hold on June 14, 2013 at the Julius Berger Hall, with the theme: Becoming a successful campus writer.

Mr Gbenga Omotoso, Editor of The Nation, is the keynote speaker.

That a memorial lecture could be held in her memory shows that Aunty Ngozi has affected the lives of many, who, in turn, affect lives of others. I am very sure that this would be her happiness wherever she is now. She might have been dead, her short stay on earth has left indelible marks in our heart.

Tosin, a Corps member, NYSC ENUGU

By Tosin Adesile

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

36

CAMPUS LIFE

Members of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS), University of Jos (UNIJOS) chapter, have held their maiden pharmaceutical outreach in a rural community in Plateau State. ESTHER MARK (Mass Communication) reports that the undertaking was tagged “community service”.

Service to humanity

F

OR more than three hours, residents of Zawan community queued up at the Orphanage and Our Lady of Apostle (OLA) Hospital to benefit from the free pharmaceutical care by students of the University of Jos (UNIJOS).

As the students arrived, they were welcomed by the locals, who trooped out in their hundreds to be treated freely.The hospital staff gave numbers to the beneficiaries to ensure orderliness.

The exercise, organised as a community service, was the maiden outreach of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS).

The journey to Zawan began from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science where the students met with the Dean, Prof John Aguiyi, to showcase items such as syringes, drugs and other health gadgets they were taking on the trip. Afterwards, they hopped into two coaster buses and left for the community with some lecturers.

As the exercise began, the students, who represented all levels of study, divided the tasks among themselves. Freshers and their colleagues in 200-Level co-ordinated the movement of patients to the Registrars’ Section. The Registrars were 300-Level students, who took the details of the patients, their 400and 500-Level counterparts were in charge of administering drugs and taking of blood pressures and other preliminary tests.

Some final year students with the lecturers and the hospital doctors formed the counselling team, which

advised patients on health issues.

As the exercise went on, officials of Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, manufacturer of Indomie, came with plates of cooked noodles for the patients.

At the end of the two-day free health mission, about 540 patients were treated. Complex cases were referred to teaching hospitals for further treatment.

Speaking to CAMPUSLIFE, Dr Ignatius Okafor, a lecturer, said peptic ulcer, malaria and hypertension were some of the ailments recorded, adding that anti-ulcer drugs, anti-malaria and antibiotic drugs were given free to the diagnosed patients.

Okafor said some of the patients suffered preventable ailments because of malnutrition and stress.

Some of the ailments, he said, could have degenerated into serious health problems because of inadequate healthcare facilities in the rural area. The don urged the government to step up its rural care campaign by providing comprehensive health facilities and rehabilitation for the vulnerable.

Some of the participants told CAMPUSLIFE their experience.

Dalang Simdi, 300-Level student, said: “It has been a wonderful experience for me. Despite the language barrier, we were able to rescue some of the rural dwellers from untimely death because many of them did not notice the kind of disease they were carrying could have led to death. I will participate again if the exercise comes next session.”

A patient, Roseline Thomas, 40, who was diagnosed of high blood

•The Pharmaceutical students with their lecturers after the outreach.

pressure and sight problems, said after she was given free drugs: “I thank you people so much. God bless you for treating my baby and I. God will reward your good work.

I am so grateful.”

The PANS president, Paul Ikechukwu, described the organisation of the programme as challenging and rigorous, thanking all the sponsors and pharmaceutical bodies that donated drugs and hospital gadgets for the mission.

To end the outreach, the association visited the orphanage home within the hospital, where it donated items including cartoons of Indomie noodles, groundnut oil, toiletries and food Items.

On and Off Campus By Solomon Izekor 08061522600 •Participants conducting test during the event.

To Aunty NG, my Amazon

T

HOUGH you left without saying goodbye, I counted the days I spent with you as your ‘handbag’ a blessing.

You had confidence, you inspired it in others.

You had verve and vitality, You made things happen!

You had intelligence, You deployed it to the benefit of young impressionable minds, Your very own “stars out of a depraved generation”.

You were raised in a country of doom, You made it your mandate to correct it.

You rose through humble strides to become a pride of the family, You made mistakes, you acknowledged and apologised easily.

Your words adorn the dedication page of my final year long essay entitled The Nigerian spirit should celebrate the essence of the human spirit: Conquering over whatever odds and sailing forth in glory.

Even in death, you remain my heroine, My Amazon who fought with the strength of her convictions.

A woman should not be a femme fatale to rise, You did not deify beauty, You did not glorify charm, You knew: “As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout,

By Hannah Ojo

So is a fair woman that is without discretion”, Your substance; you got through God, guts and grace.

Your virtue of cleanliness and finesse, The need to “lay the bed without crisps” Your belief: “cooking is about creativity” I pine for the moment of admonition, That I now cherish more in this moment of your demise, I yearn for your words of wisdom, Now that I am coming to terms with the reality of adult life.

‘Hope maketh not ashamed”: I hold on to the rock that fails not.

At this point, tears drip, word fails!

Committed I am to the dream, I run with the vision to epitomise the values.

Sincerely yours, Hannah Ojo Hannah, recently graduated in English from OAU, Ile-Ife

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

37

EDUCATION

T

We introduced CBT to tackle malpractices, says Ojerinde

HE Registrar, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof 'Dibu Ojerinde, has said the examination body introduced the Computer Based Testing (CBT) in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to tackle examination malpractices.

The JAMB boss spoke during a lecture he delivered entitled: Classical Test Theory (CTT) versus Item Response Theory (IRT): An evaluation of the comparability of item analysis results, at the Institute of Education, University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State.

Said Ojerinde: "First, I introduced

Pan-Atlantic varsity to begin undergraduate studies

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

the Computed Based Testing (CBT) because I think we can curb examination malpractices. We need to go the way of the world because everybody is going technological and if Nigeria decided not to join, I'm sorry we will be left behind. So we should do CBT. It is the answer to exam malpractices."

Ojerinde said soon, CBT would supplant paper tests.

"This year, we used 98 vehicles to carry question papers to and from Abuja all parts of the country.

Consider the danger, the risk, the life,

enough is enough," he added: "The issue of carrying question papers to centres around the country is coming to an end. In three minutes, we could send our questions from Abuja to wherever is going to be.

We're going to do it in UK, Jeddah and anywhere throughout the world.

I've not seeing any other examination body in Africa that has done what we have done in JAMB on CBT." "Let us now look at the kids who are doing the examination and let us measure their abilities rather than measuring the ability of the test," he said.

Ojerinde asserted that estimation

FUTA FILE

Bookshop open

•Ojerinde

of item and person parameters produces more stable and precise values using Item Response Theory (IRT) because it made computerbased testing offer more precise traits estimation using IRT.

Deans meet

F

ROM next year, the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), formerly called Pan-African University, Lekki, Lagos will begin the admission of students for undergraduate programmes into the School of Media and Communications and the School of Business Administration.

Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof Juan Elegido, said at a briefing last Thursday that the institution would begin its undergraduate education gradually to ensure students imbibe its rich culture.

For 11 years, the university had built a credible reputation both home and abroad as a privatelyrun institution that offered quality postgraduate education in media, communications, and business with the Financial Times of London rating its Lagos Business School (LBS) the second best in Africa and the 55th in the world.

Despite its new name, which came into effect from last Friday, Elegido assured Nigerians that the quality of education will remain

THE Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has opened an ultra-modern bookshop for staff, students, the university community, and the public.

At the event, the ViceChancellor, Prof Adebiyi Daramola, said teaching, learning and research in any educational setting can only flourish when a befitting bookshop and library are in place among other teaching and learning facilities.

Daramola, who described the development as a major milestone, appreciated the efforts of his predecessor Prof Peter O. Adeniyi to establish a bookshop in 2005/2006 session, which resulted in the construction of the new project.

He said the bookshop will be operated on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with Havillah Group of Companies.

•From left: Mrs Okekearu, Deputy Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC); Prof. Emevwo Biakolo, Dean of School of Media and Communication (SMC); Prof. Elegido, VC of Pan-Atlantic University and Dr Enase Okonedo, Dean, LBS during the briefing.

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

the same, especially as it transforms into a full-fledged university, offering undergraduate and postgraduate education.

The name change was forced by a decision of the African Union (AU) to establish a university by the same name which is being hosted by established institutions in five member countries, including Nigeria.

The AU Pan-African University's College of Life and Earth Sciences is being hosted by the University of Ibadan.

Elegido said the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has agreed to link the new name, Pan-Atlantic University, to the old, Pan-African University, when the institution features in its brochure for the first time next year when it begins accepting stu-

dents for first degrees.

"The NUC (National Universities Commission) has approved the name. What JAMB has agreed to do is that in the JAMB brochure, instead of just putting Pan Atlantic University, it will say formerly Pan African University so that at least the students who are considering what universities to apply to may be aware,” he said.

THE 57th Annual General Meeting of the Association of Deans of Agriculture in Nigerian Universities (ADAN) was held at the Hilltop CCE auditorium of FUTA. In his welcome address, the host, who is also the Dean of School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT), Prof Julius Alokan, urged his colleagues to join in the transformation agenda in the agriculture sector by sensitising stakeholders in agriculture on the need to create enabling environment for excellent and effective, teaching, research and extension activities.

Speaking on the theme: Repositioning of Agricultural Training for Transforming Agriculture in Nigeria, he said the choice of the theme was to achieve a hungerfree Nigeria through an agricultural sector that will drive income growth, accelerate achievement of food and national security, generate employment and transform the country into a leading player in global food markets to grow wealth for millions of farmers.

Our vision, by Madona VC

By Adegunle Olugbamila

• Prof Ezedum

I

T is the first private university in Nigeria and the first Catholic university in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, 14 years after its establishment, Madonna University, has proved to be a blessing in the private university sector in the country, attracting nearly 100 other private universities into the race.

But one interesting thing is that the university has never rested on its oars despite what seems like an unhealthy rivalry among competing private universities scouting for students.

Madonna University continues to fire from all cylinders, remain-

ing committed to its dream of a science/technology-oriented institution.

Initially, the university ran two campuses-the Elele and the Okija which is the main campus and until the Akpugo arm came on board.

Today, the university which started with a handful of students now has enough spread across its various faculties.

And for doubting thomases, all it takes is just a trip to the three campuses of the university located to behold its grandeur, a testimony of a multi-million naira investment that can make other institutions go green with envy.

"We want to revolutionalise Science and Technology in Nigeria.

Madonna University will not only produce graduates that are only worthy in character and learning, but enterprising and creativeminded individuals that will fasttrack the nation's technological pace," said the university's sixthVice-Chancellor Prof Chucks Emmanuel Ezedum.

A professor of Public Health Education from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ezedum told The Nation that the university will remain committed to the vision of its founding father-Rev Professor Emmanuel Edeh.

The target of the university, Ezedum stressed, is to gradually evolve the Nigerian version of Mas-

• Cross section of participants who graduated from the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) regular courses at the college premises in Topo, Badagry last Thursday.

sachusetts Institute of Technology, in the United States.

The university has not experienced cultism, strike, sorting of marks or sexual harassment from lecturers or examination malpractices since its inception.

Ezedum said from faculty staff up to the non-teaching facet, the university management has carefully selected the 'best hands' they can find anywhere in the country.

Aside conducive hostel facility for

students, Ezedum boasted that a first time visitor will be amazed by the breathtaking ambience in its three campuses which are also installed with state-of-the-art laboratories.

To further prove critics wrong, Ezedum added that the university's Civil Engineering and Chemical Engineering laboratories are installed with instruments such as the Bishop Pore Pressure trix-axis and Gas Chromatography which, aside

their eye-popping prices, are hardly found in universities.

He said: "The campuses have beautiful hostel for the female and male students. The print and e-library are simply breathtaking with adequate classroom installed with modern teaching tools.”

Ezedum continued: "Our engineering laboratory and workshop parade the best equipment you can find in any world-class university.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

38

EDUCATION

35 scholars for Ade Ajayi's memoirs

CHILDREN’S DAY

CHILDREN’S DAY

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

NO fewer than 35 scholars and academics converged on the Ojoo Ibadan Avenue, residence of Professor Emritus Jacob Ade Ajayi for a final deliberation on the forthcoming book to commemorate his 85th birthday celebration.

The meeting, which was chaired by Prof Ayo Banjo, witnessed the 10-minute presentation by each of the scholars who had each been given a topic to write upon.

Among the scholarsat the meeting were: Prof Michael Omolewa, Professors Jide Oshuntokun, Bolanle Awe, Festus Ogunlade, Kunle Lawal, and Kyari Mohammed.

Other contributors were Professors Funke Adeboye, James Morrison, Lalage Bown, Roza Ismagilova, and Liu Naiya among others. The Coordinator of the event, Prof Omolewa in collaboration with the eldest child of the celebrator, Mrs Yetunde Taiwo, expressed appreciation to the contributors.

He said the book is not meant to laud the octogenarian, whom he said detests praise singing. Omolewa noted that Prof Ajayi has given them the free hand to write anything about him.

"The book will highlight all the phases of life and work of the academic," Omolewa said.

Chapter one of the book, which title has not yet been

'Govt’s efforts in education laudable' From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

PRO-CHANCELLOR and Chairman Governing Council, Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS), Sokoto Dr George Egabor, has disagreed with the claim that the government is paying lip service to education sector.

Egabor, who spoke at the inauguration of the reconstituted council of the university, observed that improved funding to education at all levels was imperative to ensure standards and excellence in the system.

"Government is trying in this direction but no amount of money allocated to the sector is too much. I don't agree with the insinuations that the government is paying lip service to the sector," he said.

The Wanna Kingdom title holder in Edo State acknowledged that underfunding of universities was a national problem as a result of "competitive demands."

Praising UDUS for being one of the second generation universities in Nigeria that has achieved a lot in academic and non academic pursuits, Egabor pledged to add value to the university.

"I will strive to make the university better than I met it," he said, adding: "there are formidable challenges which however can be tackled."

•Children at the party

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HERE was no dull moment at the DSTV Children's Day Party held at the Landmark Village, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos last Saturday.

The event was also used by the firm to announce plans to launch the DSTV Club for children and teenagers in July.

The satellite pay-TV firm ensured that the children and their parents had fun and VIP treatment. A variety of food, snacks and drinks were not in short supply, while the DJ kept the venue lively with music from top Nigerian mu-

DSTV fetes children

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

sicians.

Various specialists were on hand to engage the young ones in fun activities such as face painting, bead-making craft, and for those who wanted it, their yellow, blue and red DSTV t-shirts were customised with their names artistically written on them.

There were also train rides, portrait photo shoot, and outdoor play on the bouncing castle, as well as many fun games. Speaking on the significance of the celebration, Mr Mayo Okunola, Group Managing Director, DSTV

said the commemoration of the Children's Day is to encourage families to celebrate with their children as well as remember those who cannot celebrate because of their circumstances.

"We don't get time to spend with our children. Many parents here are very busy and this gives opportunity for family time.

"We call it a celebration, but there are many children out there who are being abused.

We want to remember them at this time," he said.

Speaking on the DSTV Club, which will have a membership

of toddlers up to 16, Okunola said members will benefit from giveaways, as well as get opportunities to showcase their talents. One of the parents, Mrs Roli Segun-Ajala, praised the organisers for putting up the event.

"It's been wonderful. It is a beautiful party. The kids are having fun; lots to eat, lots to drink; lots of fun things to do; we are all having so much fun.

On the Children's Day, I will be going to work so I am trying to do all I can do with the children now so I don't feel guilty if nothing happens on Monday," she said.

•Wesley pupils performing at the event.

UAC celebrates with ‘special children’

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HE spectacle was simply irresistible. Workers of the Nigeria's frontline and marketer of tasty nourishing food, UAC Foods, with students of Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired with some select school in Surulere embarked on a road show.

Tagged: 'Supreme Ice Cream Children's Day charity walk', it was to mark the yearly Children's Day. The convoy kicked off at the National Stadium at 8am and ended at the school premises in Surulere Lagos.

At the school ground, where the event climaxed, the happy children entertained the visitors with Atilogu cultural per-

By Adegunle Olugbamila

formance. There was also a dance session. The children and guests also enjoyed the snack and fruit juice produced

by UAC. UAC General Manager (Marketing) Mrs Joan Ihekwaba said the initiative was strategic. She noted that UAC identifies with love and affection, hence its desire to host the special children who do not enjoy certain privileges like others.

She said: "We need to imbibe the culture of love and affection. We need to appreciate children who do not enjoy certain privileges like others.

That is why we are using Su-

preme Ice Cream as a brand because its essence is built around love and friendship.”

Ihekaba said UAC has been in partnership with the school in time past adding that it intends to sustain it.

She added that UAC is similarly repeating the same in three other special schools in Lagos, Ibadan and Onitsha.

Two vice-principals of Wesley School I and School II Messrs Alimi Kehinde and Solomon Addey thanked UAC for its kind gesture.

Alimi also thanked corporate organisations and other individuals who have hitherto contributed to the growth of Wesley and four other Wesley model schools for special children.

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39

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

EDUCATION

CHILDREN’S DAY

CHILDREN’S DAY

CHILDREN’S DAY

CHILDREN’S DAY

Pomp at Lagos parade, rally

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T was, indeed, a day for the children of Lagos State as they were the centre of focus at the state Children's Day parade and rally held at the state Police College Parade grounds, Ikeja.

The opening prayer was said by Aladenike Esther, the Assistant Head Girl of Girls Grammar School, Ikoyi while the welcome address was delivered by Shadeko Adejuwon, a 17-year-old SSS 3 pupil of Agidingbi Senior Grammar School, Ikeja.

In his welcome address, Shadeko who represented all children in Lagos, said the over five million children in Lagos were grateful to the government for the increased infrastructural development and facilities in schools, ading that they have improved their teaching and learning environment."We have every reason to rejoice, Thank you for your vision and selfless services to mankind."

By Medinat Kanabe

Pledging to read their books and pass exams, Shadeko promise that they would win all prizes when they go for competitions outside the state.

He called on parents to support the governor by checking their books daily and attend the ParentTeacher Forum always.

He said he enjoyed being a child because he got preferential treatment. "You are treated like a novice. You are guided always but an adult is left on his own because it is assumed that he knows many things already. I really enjoy being a child. I will miss my childhood when I become an adult," he added.

In his speech, the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) charged the children to work very hard in the next WASSCE and make at least 70 per cent pass in Maths and English. "You did well

Ejigbo Council celebrates with march past

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HAIRMAN, Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, (LCDA), Lagos, Kehinde Bamigbetan celebrated the Children's Day with pupils of different schools in the LCDA. The event was held at the open square of Ejigbo Police Station.

For the pupils, it was a joyous day as they did a march past with music supplied by the Boys Brigade (Fifth), Isolo and Boys Scout of Nigeria (Ejigbo chapter).

The Supervisor for Education for the council Ayotunde Ojo, who welcomed the pupils, noted that without education, every child's future is wasted.

"Education is power, education is light and education is knowledge.

No one can attain some things in life without education," he said.

To become great, Ojo urged Bamigbetan to acknowledge the children as their day comes up once yearly. Head Teacher, Low Cost Housing Estate Primary School II, Mrs Adedoyin Dada, and the Principal, Ejigbo Junior High School, Mrs F. O. Adesoye, who representing both primary and second-

• Bola Ige Millennium Senior Seconday School, Olodi-Apapa at the Children’s Day celebration at Police College Parade Ground, Ikeja, Lagos.

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

in the last WASSCE as we had a 37 per cent pass in Maths and English, but I want you to double that and make it 70 per cent in the next WASSCE. Your teachers and parents are very proud of you."

He told them that the efforts made by some bad people to harm them would not be possible if the children stay safe.

"Stay safe by refusing to take things from strangers, stay safe by refusing to take vehicles that are not painted in the state

Mushin NAPPS hosts children

•Group of pupils performing a match past during the Children’s Day

By Duro Babayemi and Sampson Unamka

ary schools in the LCDA, gave words of exaltation. The duo urged the children not to engage in truancy.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ejigbo Police Station, Inoma Abbey, a Chief Superintendent of Police, admonished the students to be tidy and punctual. He urged them to

colour or have registration numbers, don't take marijuana or alcohol, don't join cult. You can join the boys scout, girls brigade, power kids club, climate change club, road safety club and obey your parents.

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stay in class during school.

Earlier, Bamigbetan, who thanked those who attended the event, urged the children as a new generation of freedom fighters, to stand on what is right and be good ambassadors of their country.

Bamigbetan said parents and teachers must endeavour to enlighten the children on what true democracy is

so that in future, the nation will further improve politically.

The schools were: Low Cost Housing Estate Primary School; Jakande Estate; Imakiyo Primary School; Our Saviour Private School, Ifoshi Primary School, Folarin Nursery and Primary School; and Ashiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Nursery and Primary School.

HE National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, (NAPPS), Mushin branch, Lagos State, celebrated the Children's Day drawing children from 26 private schools in Mushin.

The event, which held at the Worksyard Open Ground, Olu Aina, Mushin was attended by private school owners, parents and over 400 pupils.

President, NAPPS, Chief Otubela, who spoke on child abuse, said it could be physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, or bullying. Otubela, who was represented by Mrs Bunmi Ogunlolu, Proprietress, Bayjet Nursery and Primary School Agege, urged parents, guardians and others to show love and care to children, and endeavour to give them quality education.

"Efforts should be geared towards giving the child basic education from the basic level, through to secondary and then the tertiary," he said.

He frowned at the use of corporal punishment on children. "Anything that will be inimical to the survival and growth of children should be avoided," Otubela warned.

Be security conscious, pupils urged

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•Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, an Executive Director with Enterprise Bank Limited (middle), cutting the cake at a Children's Day celebration organised by the bank in Lagos.

By Medinat Kanabe

ECURITY is usually discussed as it relates to gadgets and strategies people put in place to keep safe.

However, what constitutes security and insecurity was redefined by Rev. D. K. Verralls at the Children's Day Thanksgiving Service organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Education on Sunday.

The cleric in his sermon at the service held at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, told primary and secondary school pupils at the event that telling lies, having sexual relations, and keeping bad company could pose a security risk to them and their families. He added that being educated on its own is also a form of security.

"Please do what is right at all times.

You close by 4pm, please go straight home. If you do not tell your parents where you are going, you attract insecurity to yourselves. Some of you engage in casual sex. I hope you know it is part of insecurity.

Education is a form of security. If people are not educated, they become a nuisance to the society," he said.

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

Rev. Verralls also challenged the pupils to change the society and not be influenced by what is wrong.

The pupils also got admonition from the Head of Service, Prince Adesegun Ogunlewe and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs Omolara Erogbogbo.

Giving some words of wisdom, Ogunlewe urged the pupils to embrace hard work, honesty, and have regard for others.

"You need to be very hard working to pass through primary and secondary schools. It is only with hard work you can meet the challenges of life," he said.

The service featured bible readings, one of which was taken by the Spelling Bee winner and One Day Governorin-waiting, Boadely Juwon Afolarin, song renditions by the Lagos State School Chorale and the CMS Grammar School Choir, and a presentation by the Children's Ministry of the church.

The pupils also got devotionals, colour-in and story books courtesy of the Christ Embassy Church, Oregun.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

40

EDUCATION EDUTALK

with

A woman's Dream for Nigeria

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• Mrs Sola David-Borha, Managing Director, Stanbic-IBTC Plc (left), and Mrs Akinkugbe presenting the cheque to Rabiu.

Monopoly contest fetches King's College N1m

K

ING'S College, Lagos, is N1m richer, thanks to Habib Rabiu, an SS2 pupil, who won the first City of Lagos Edition Monopoly competition last Friday.

Habib defeated seven other finalists from his school and Queen's College, Yaba, to win the prize money, N250,000 for himself and N750,000 for his school in the competition that held at the Terraculture, Victoria Island.

The Monopoly game is a board game, which requires participants to play around the board, buying and developing property and earning income from rents and sales.

The player with the most cash and assets wins the game.

The competition was organised

by Bestman Games, the exclusive distributor of the board game on the African continent.

Bestman, which has the sole rights from publishers, Hasbro, to distribute and produce 'local' editions of board game in Africa, partnered with the Lagos State government

U

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

to produce the City of Lagos Edition which features places in Lagos State.

King's and Queen's Colleges were invited to participate in the maiden edition of the competition because they feature on the board as part of the heritage of Lagos State.

A preliminary round, involving about eighty pupils was used to select the eight pupils that played the final on a huge Monopoly table at the centre of the room.

Among the eight finalists were six boys from King's College, and two girls from Queen's College.

Delighted about the school's win, Principal of King's College, Otunba Dele Olapeju said it was the return of the school's investment in sports.

He said the prize money would help boost the school's sports infrastructure.

"I knew that we invested in our boys. We were coaching them vigorously. Many principal don't take sports seriously but you can get to win a lot of money from competi-

tion. My attitude to Monopoly has to do with its focus on capitalism.

It teaches the pupils them about business an entrepreneurship, wealth creation. We will invest our prize money in more sports infrastructure. Sports is very costly. We will train the coaches, and then purchase equipment," he said.

Mrs Nimi Akinkugbe, chief executive office, Bestman Games said the Monopoly game is good for pupils because it teaches financial literacy.

She said: "There are very strong lessons in financial literacy in it.

The school curriculum in many countries does not give any instruction on personal finance.

Many of these children come out of school and they don't know anything about managing their money.

We felt that if you teach children about money quite early, it stands them in good stead for the future."

The competition was supported by various corporate organisations, including First Bank of Nigeria Plc, GTBank Plc, and Stanbic IBTC Pensions Managers Limited.

ALSCON’s scholarship scheme out

NIVERSITY undergraduates who hail from communities in Akwa Ibom and Rivers State are to benefit from scholarship grants of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON), a subsidiary of global aluminium producer, United Company RUSAL. The communities are Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, Eastern Obolo, and Oruk Anam in the Akwa Ibom state as well as to neighbouring communities of Opobo/Nkoro and Andoni in the Rivers state.

The RUSAL-ALSCON scholarship

programme was set up as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in 2009 to improve the standard of education in the Niger Delta.

The programme has so far granted financial support to more than 180 beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries, usually 200-Level undergraduates, are selected in line with specific criteria of the Scholarship Programme Organising Committee, comprising members of ALSCON's senior management.

A free application form to take part in the Scholarship Programme

can be submitted by any interested student, who is local to the area covered by the programme, and who meets the set selection requirements.

Application forms are available at the main gate at the ALSCON plant as well as in the secretariats of the Heads and Chiefs of Clans of Ikot Abasi LGA and at the Ikot Abasi Students Association until the May 31 deadline.

Examinations and concluding formalities for the programme are planned for next month.

PZ Cussons launches Chemistry Challenge

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UTSTANDING performance in Chemistry would earn some secondary school pupils scholarship grants if they participate in the PZ Cussons Chemistry Challenge which will hold from July to September in Lagos.

PZ Cussons Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc, launched the competition for SS1 and SS2 pupils in Lagos last Friday.

Chairman of the Foundation, Prof Emmanuel Edozien, announced that pupils can enter for the competition online from June 3 to 21.

Explaining the stages of the competition Mrs Yomi Ifaturoti, Direc-

tor, Corporate Affairs and Administration, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc, said after entries are received, the first stage of written quiz would be conducted in the six education districts in July.

The best 100 pupils from each district would progress to stage two where another round of written assessment would be made to determine the best four students that would advance to the third and final stage. Each of the four finalists would make a presentation to the panel of judges to determine their positions.

The top four winners would be rewarded with scholarship grants, laptops and medals; while their

teachers and schools would get cash and book prizes.

The first placed winner would get N700,000 worth of scholarship, the teacher, N100,000 and the school N100,000 worth of chemistry books. The second would get N500,000 - with N60,000 for the teacher and chemistry books worth N50,000 for the school.

The second runner up will win N400,000, the teacher, N40,000 and the school, N50,000 worth of books.

The third runner-up would win N300,000 worth of scholarship, a laptop and a consolation medal while the teacher would get N20,000 and the school N50,000 worth of chemistry books.

STEPPED into the Shell Hall of the MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos for the Vision 2020 Career Counseling, Industry Awareness and Kofoworola Youth Empowerment programme last Thursday Belo-Osagie and noticed that the drapes used to decorate the hall Kofosagie@yahoo.com were green and white 08054503077 (SMS only) Nigeria's national colours.

I smiled knowingly; the programme was not to commemorate Nigeria's independence, afterall, it is holding in May. The choice of colour had everything to do with its convener, Dr Ibilola Amao, a woman who is passionate about Nigeria.

After the prayers and anthem, Timi Dakolo, pioneer West African Idols winner, was ushered onto the podium to sing his beautifully composed song about Nigeria that talks about her people arising in unity to build the country.

Again, I was not surprised at the choice of artiste and song. For those who know Dr Amao, they know that her heartfelt desire for Nigeria are encapsulated in the song's lyrics.

In her address to the secondary school pupils that filled the hall, Mrs Amao said she was moved to tears as Dakolo sang. It is her dream that the Nigeria Dakolo painted in his song emerges - a Nigeria whose people will arise, unite to defend her land; a Nigeria that 'one day will shine like the sun'. This dream inspired her in 2006 to begin the programme to inspire 100,000 youths who will choose careers to make impact, not money; who will embrace transparency and professionalism; who can compete favourably internationally; whose attitudes and work ethics will be excellent; and above all, who will help Nigeria on her way to the Promised Land.

Dr Amao's background is in Oil and Gas. She has told, many times, how, to our shame, Nigeria lacks competent hands to run the multi-billion dollar industry that lays her golden egg. Haven spent years recruiting and training workers for this all important sector, she has seen high profile jobs go to foreigners instead of Nigerians. She said it is a shame that after 50 years of oil exploitation and exploration, Nigeria still exports crude. 'I have lost hope in my generation,' she said to me at the event; 'I am only doing this with the hope of raising a future generation that will change the situation.'

The task is onerous and extends beyond Oil and Gas to other sectors of the economy. Since 2006 she has trudged on - inviting more than 1000 youths to the seminars that hold yearly in Lagos (in May) and Abuja (in November).

Dr Amao also organises free one-week retreats for some 40 highflying pupils during which they are taught science subjects; hear talks aimed at influencing positive attitudes; learn about the Oil and Gas industry among others.

Many times, funding is short for the programmes. I am surprised how she has been able to last so long. But her goal is to continue until she reaches 100,000 youths by the Year 2020. Who will support her dream? Who will invest in the next generation of leaders so that our country can be restored and rebuilt - and one day shine like the sun? WHO?

‘She was moved to tears as Dakolo sang. It is her dream that the Nigeria Dakolo painted in his song emerges - a Nigeria whose people will arise, unite to defend her land; a Nigeria that 'one day will shine like the sun'. This dream inspired her in 2006 to begin the programme to inspire 100,000 youths who will choose careers to make impact, not money; who will embrace transparency and professionalism; who can compete favourably internationally; whose attitudes and work ethics will be excellent; and above all, who will help Nigeria on her way to the Promised Land’

POLITICS

43

THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and his wife, Florence, were recently installed as the Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland by the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, shortly after the endorsement of the governor for a second term by the stakeholders. BISI OLADELE examines the political significance of the historic ceremony.

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Ajimobi: Endorsement for ‘son of soil’

T was a carnival-like ceremony in the ancient city of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Governor Abiola Ajimobi and his wife, Florence, were the cynosure of all eyes. They were conferred with the Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland by the paramount ruler, Oba Samuel Odulana. The implication of the conferement was not lost on the politicians and political observers.

Like most governors, Ajimobi had promised on May 29, 2011 that he would restore the glory of the Pace Setter State. However, not many took him seriously as the citizens had grown weary of many of such unfulfilled promises.

But two years on, the governor has proved to all and sundry that he meant what he said at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, where a large crowd witnessed his inauguration as the governor.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Are Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Azeez Arisekola-Alao, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), Chief Kola Daisi, members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), traditional rulers and leaders of thought in the state. Also at the ceremony were Governors Babatunde Raji Fashola (Lagos State), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun). The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) leaders, including the national chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, and ChiefOlusegun Osoba also witnessed the occasion.

Ajimobi is a proud son of Ibadanland. To many people, the ceremony marked the endorsement of the governor for a second term by the Ibadan indigenes by his kinsmen.

The governor said that he accepted the honour because Oba Odulana is not given to frivolous conferrment of titles on undeserving individuals. He said the honour was based on the monarch’s objective assessment of his performance as the governor in the last two years.

“We are all very proud of the Olubadan of Ibadan land,’’ the governor said, adding that he had been offered several chieftaincy titles, which he had turned down.

“But I have no choice than to accept this honour, coming from the highly revered royal father, the Olubadan. I know that he doesn’t just dole out chieftaincy titles anyhow. He is a man of no mean achievement and he is highly principled. He has done us, the sons and daughters of Ibadanland, proud. I am, therefore, very pleased with the titles,’’ he said.

Ajimobi said that he was also pleased to be recognised by his kinsmen for his outstanding achievements, since he became the governor two years ago.

“Ibadan people are very tough. They are not given to frivolities. If they deem it fit to honour you, you should know that you are really worth it,’’ he added, thanking the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and the Ibadan Elders’ Forum for their usual support.

The governor pledged that the honour would further spur him into performing more than before in his quest for the socio-economic development.

All the Ibadan traditional high chiefs who were present at the occasion, took turns to eulogise the governor, who they said, had done Ibadan proud through his outstanding per-

•From left: Chief Akande, Governor Ajimobi and his wife, Florence, at the ceremony.

formance.

Though a traditional honour, the development has far-reaching implications for 2015.

The popular cry during the tenure of former Governor Adebayo AlaoAkala was for an Ibadan indigene to return to the Agodi Government House. When Ajimobi was elected, Ibadan elders and people voted for him. He garnered the highest votes, from the city. Thus, their expectations was met. The governor has largely worked hard to justify the confidence reposed on him. The political implication of this is that Ajimobi and the ACN can count on their traditional support. By the feat accomplished so far, the governor has also won many more people to his side as the towns and cities are looking far better than he met them in 2011.

Oba Odulana is a highly principled monarch, who has been speaking the truth to power and, in mild terms, has not been generous in giving titles to people, particularly, undeserving individuals. Therefore, that the honour came from him largely implies that Ajimobi’s achievements are recognised in high places as real and outstanding. This reduces the chances of other politicians and parties to warm themselves into the hearts of the people, particularly, in Ibadan and other major towns.

The major opposition figure in the state, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, is a member of the Olubadan-in-Council.

That this title of Atunluse (Agent of change) came from the palace means that he (Ladoja) may have a weak following in the highest traditional council in Ibadanland.

The honour came only two years into the four-year term, meaning that Ajimobi still has more than ample time to warm himself and his party into the heart of the people.

Some of his feats When he was sworn in as the governor on May 29, 2011, Governor Ajimobi clearly spelt out his vision to transform the state. He marshaled his transformation, restoration and reformation agenda with gusto. But many did not see the agenda as anything unique because of previous disappointment.

Though many rejoiced at a new regime that was expected to end the reign of thuggery, brigandage and lack-lustre performance, the hope of a true transformation was low among residents as the state had long earned for itself a negative image that almost made Nigerians believe that it does not have talented leaders to rebuild the state, which was almost in ruins.

For the first three months, Ajimobi and his team did not come up with any major project other than the ban the violent commercial drivers’ union as well as the weekly environmental sanitation aimed at reducing filt and dirts. The situation -led to the the characterisation of Ibadan as the most violent and the dirtiest city in Nigeria.

But from September to December, 2011, Ajimobi changed the fortune of several commercial motorcyclists by offering them tricycles. He also facilitated the establishment of an assembly plant for tricycle manufacturing in Ibadan, to serve the needs of the state and other Southwest states.

This was followed by the construction of a flyover at Mokola Roundabout, a notorious traffic gridlock spot at the gateway to the Ibadan Central Business District. The bridge, which is due for commissioning this month, has opened up the business district to all the stakeholders, adding more value to the worth of properties in the

area and the beauty of Mokola and its environs.

He introduced a novel healthcare system dubbed: “Oyo Free Health Mission” towards the end of the year, which saw over 60,000 residents across the state treated free by foreign and local medics. In 2012 over 130,000 patients benefitted from the programme.

That was in addition to the distribution of free exercise books to public school pupils across the state and the reduction of school fees by 50 per cent in state-owned tertiary institutions.

Ajimobi employed of 20,000 youths into the Youths Empowerment Scheme of Oyo State dubbed: “YESO.” From the 33 local governments that make up the state, beneficiaries, who are largely graduates, thronged the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium (formerly Liberty Stadium), for community service in the environment, transport, education, health and other sectors of the economy.

Several roads and bridges, washed away by the fatal August 26, 2011 flood, were either rebuilt or renovated.

The civil servants for the first time, received a full 13th month salary for Christmas.

In 2012 Ajimobi and his team started made impact in traffic control, road maintenance, improvement on physical infrastructures in schools, and beautification of cities.

The first quarter of the year looked dull with no major projects. Then, criticisms trailed the administration. It became a popular saying that Ajimobi was slow. The seeming lull created a gap between the high expectation of residents from an initial “Active Governor” and the reality of the need for proper planning.

But the second quarter ushered in a new regime of beautification. The governor gave teeth to his long dream of changing the landscape of Ibadan

‘The major opposition figure in the state, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, is a member of the Olubadan-in-Council. That this title of Atunluse (Agent of change) came from the palace means that he (Ladoja) may have a weak following in the highest traditional council in Ibadanland’

and other towns. To achieve this, many shops with unapproved plans and those standing on water channels and roads had to go.

With bulldozers pulling down illegal structures, many residents embarked on a campaign of calmuny to discourage the governor from accomplishing his aim. Ajimobi did not bulge. He remained resolute, explaining to all who cared to listen that things must change for a true city to emerge.

Within one year of landscaping, installation of modern facilities and strict observance to urban planning regulations, the outlook of Ibadan and other towns have changed.

In the health sector, the administration is currently renovating the hitherto derelict State Hospital, Adeo yo, Ring Road with over N800 million.

This is aimed at bringing it up to international standards. He launched the ambulances earlier in the year, thereby improving access of residents in remote communities to healthcare. It equally offered prompt response to road accident victims in Ibadan. The ambulance services are being expanded to all the 33 local governments.

In the education sector, the Ajimobi Administration has renovated many blocks of classrooms, resuscitated running grants, approved the promotion to the highest cadre in the civil service for teachers and offered free extra-mural classes to final year pupils. This led to improved performance of students in the WAEC and NECO examinatiins last year. Recently, the administration presented a N100 million scholarship to students who are indigenes of the state in tertiary institutions. The gesture is coming 28 years after scholarships were last awarded in the state.

The Ajimobi Administration now has many 32-seater buses conveying workers to and from the secretariat free of charge. Other commuters within Ibadan are also been enjoying free ride in many routes.

The era of labouring in vain for Certificate of Occupancy (Cof O) and other land documents is over. The C of O is now processed transparently within 60 days of application and land resource is offered to investors with generous discounts.

In agriculture, the administration has resuscitated the school agriculture project, increased seedling supply, registered the farmers for effective distribution of facilities and improved on the management of agricultural practices.

But the housing, physical planning and urban renewal projects seem to have made the most visible impact. In Ibadan, three massive neighbourhood markets would be commissioned this month. A modern motor park along the new Ife Road was commissioned earlier in the year to move commercial vehicles from Iwo Road intervhange.

The establishments of two new GRAs in Akinyele and NIHORT has also received applause.

Two major marks of these projects are their high quality and taste. Being an urbane person, Ajimobi has proved, within two years, that a new Oyo State is not only desirable, but possible with the right leader. He has also proved that the problem of Nigeria is that of leadership and that when leaders have the right vision, the political will and the determination to attain their laudable goals, Nigerians will suddenly become law-abiding and good followers.

44

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

POLITICS Second Republic Secretary to Lagos State Government Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun spoke with WALE AJETUNMOBI on the politcal situation in the country.

‘There is need for power shift in 2015’

D

O you think the All Progressives Congress (APC), when finally registered, would be a threat to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)?

It certainly will pose a threat to the PDP because the party being conceived by the leaders, will come to the Southwest as a mass movement and sweep away those who are anti-people.

In what ways do you think the APC will be different from the PDP? APC’s primary objective to bring Nigerians together and run a government that will have the greatest interest of Nigerians at heart. A manifesto has not been launched. So, nobody can say these are the details. But, if there is anything in the mind of those who are promoting the APC, it is to take charge of the country and the government in Nigeria; to run a government that will be in the interest of the majority of Nigerians. There is an urgent need for power to shift in 2015.

Considering the United States report on corruption in Nigeria, is there any hope for the country?

Well, I don’t know the details of the US report.

Did they mention those who are corrupt? According to you, the report says there is monumental corruption being perpetrated in high places in Nigeria. The high places here means the Federal Government being administered by the PDP. The ACN is not there. By the way, the President’s statement against the civil servants, who he said are corrupt on Workers’ Day, is unfortunate. I expect the civil servants to organise themselves and reply him. I don’t know why he accused the civil servants, except they are all corrupt together. Take the case of the oil subsidy, we know the people who benefited from the fraud. None of them is a civil servant. Unless the President is telling us that it was the civil servants who misadvised them to give money to those who are not going to import oil and they embezzled all the money. It is corruption in itself for the President to promise us that, when he removed the subsidy, Nigerians would see what he would do with the money. But we are now seeing what he is doing with SURE-P programme headed by Dr Christoper Kolade. The programme has now been politicised. SURE is not sure for all Nigerians. The President is using the scheme to look after the members of his party across the states. Is that how to alleviate our suffering? SURE is sure for only those who can sing the praises of the President.

The House of Representatives recently concluded a process to review the constitution…

I have wondered, if the review is different from the amendment. Whatever they claimed they did was a sham. Members of the House of Representatives are trying to fool Nigerians by coming out to say Nigerians have spoken; that some constituencies have met and voted and agreed that there should be no state police. I say they are

‘If there is anything in the mind of those who are promoting APC, it is to take charge of the country and the government in Nigeria; to run a government that will be in the interest of the majority of Nigerians.

There is an urgent need for power to shift in 2015’ • Basorun

talking rubbish. This is a country where we have more than 160 million people and less than 9,000 policemen. If I take the average, out of about 250 people that attended the one in Ikorodu in November, half of them were market women with aso ebi (uniform). I attended and I took permission to speak first. I told them to set up different committees in all constituencies in Ikorodu axis, so that more people would be heard. They didn’t want to consider it. Later, I asked them: how can we be saying yes or no on these vexed issues? I told them that, if that is what you want, tell the House this is not going to solve our problems.

There are questions we have to ask. But you have given us the template for 43 questions to go and fill and returned. I filled my own, but I added a rejoinder. I appealed to them to note that what they are doing is just a preamble to the real work.

I advised them to get more Nigerians involved.

It is necessary to invite organisations such as Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Women Council of Nigeria, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the important civil society bodies. Let them constitute a body to look at the 43 subjects and debate them. We did not vote in my constituency. How could we have voted; what would those uneducated women have voted for? Do they know what is called state police? I did not end there because I know the implication. I know we cannot get a perfect constitution, but let us get something that is closer to it. So, I was surprised when I read in the newspaper that 324 constituencies voted that Houses of Assembly should be granted financial autonomy. That is

not important because many of the states already have it. Lagos State has it. Why should they be voting for that one?

What is your view on the local government autonomy?

I am concerned about that. The preponderant view is that local government should be subjected to the state so that they can use Section 7, sub-section 1, of the current constitution, which has not been amended, to create local governments. So, when it comes to funding, use the indices to allocate money to that state. The present constitution does not even ask the Federal Government to give local government funds directly to the states. Then, in Section 162, the money is there for the state for sharing among the local governments in accordance with a law made by the state House of Assembly. And then, they talk of states’ Independent Electoral Commission being prevented from holding elections.

What type of federalism are we running? If we want to conduct a local government election, an almighty Jega will come and conduct it. It means that INEC will not rest all its life, if it has to conduct local government elections in the 36 states, which are not held at the same period.

They say INEC should conduct all the elections at the same time and they are saying yes. What does the market woman understand about scrapping states’ electoral commissions and leaving the national electoral commission to hold all elections? Even, some elite said the state governors would misuse power. Is the federal government not misusing power? Anenih, last month, said, we know how to win in 2015. The statement is pregnant with a lot of meaning. So, the House of Reps just left serious matters and

went into issues such as immunity clause. It does not make much sense to me because the conference we held in 2005 had decided that the criminal aspect be removed. Nobody should be in this country and commit crime because he or she is in a position of authority and get away with it. No. Should a six-year single tenure be allowed?

I heard the President’s spokesman saying that Jonathan has said he would not contest in the 2015, provided that we have a six-year single term. My view is that many of these people do not understand. It is a pity Obasanjo jettisoned the last constitutional conference. Each time I look through the list of the participants; we had Anyaoku, we had Olusola Saraki, Ango Abdullahi and Muritala Nyako. I was there and Prof Adebayo Adedeji, the Olowo of Owo, who was my teacher in the Law School, was there. I don’t know how we will succeed to arrange such people, unless each constituency brings out its best people to work out a new constitution. So, we need a collection to discuss on these 43 items and they should not make the material their final decision. They should still subject it to argument such as what are the implications of state police? Argument that the state government will abuse it, or use to harass its opponent is trite.

What is the President doing with the security lever he controls? Presently, he is using it, as he wants. When he did not want the opponents of Dickson to be governor in Bayelsa State, they used security against them. When Ladoja was to be impeached, the process was done in a hotel guarded by security agencies. The same thing with Dariye. So, who cannot misuse the security apparatus? We only need to strengthen the law to caution whoever is going to be in charge.

Don’t you think the country is jinxed when it comes to making a new constitution?

I don’t believe in such a notion. But what I think is that those who are there now feel that making a new constitution or amendment would take the power away from them. That is why I said they should be part of the process. If people want another constitution, I don’t think this present government can do that. It is not only lazy, it is a sleeping government. They are just spending our money on unproductive retreats.

They will take allowance and all sorts of money.

But having spent such money, nothing else happens. We still have two years to go into another election. Let us do this review properly and get something. In 2015, when we get a better government, we will overhaul everything. This is not the kind of government that can give us a good constitution. Whenever they hear that people are calling for constitutional review, they will think that we want to send them packing.

They want to entrench themselves, which is what the decision they have taken in the just-concluded review process.

My father’s murder was political, says Aregbesola’s aide

By Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

• Olajoku

F

OR eight years Kareem Fola Olajoku, Senior Special Assistant to Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola on General Matters, has remained in agony. Reason: the murder of his beloved father, Alhaji Sulaimon Hassan-Olajoku, a major supporter of Aregbesola’s governorship ambition on May 15, 2005.

The slain Hassan-Olajoku, whom the governor once described as “a major financier of my campaign and left no one in doubt as to his support for and loyalty to our cause,” was

gruesomely assassinated at Gbongan Junction in the presence of his teenage daughters and wife. It was a day after he organised a ceremony in IfonOsun to market the governor the people.

“But eight years should be long enough to forget such an experience,” this reporter said. Kareem’s voice quaked in emotion in response: “How can I forget someone who was more that a father to me and our entire family? He was a man we could count on for anything. He was taken away from us at a period my siblings and I needed him most because we were very young at that time. He was a perfect gentle man; a strong grassroots politician, tax consultant, and a loving father. Words cannot explain how I feel. Sometimes, I wished it was just a dream that would soon fade away. Who on earth would shoot a man 24 times or more? That was pure assassination! They wanted him dead.”

The governor’s aide seethed with indignation when he wondered why the police were yet to give his family any clue about those who killed his father and their motive, but was pro-

fuse in praises for Aregbesola who remained a dependable pillar of support for the bereaved family. “I appreciate our governor’s efforts to ensure that my siblings and I do not suffer as a result of this horrible experience. He has been our pillar of support; we can’t thank him enough.

I also commend him for immortalising my father by building a mega park, named Hassan Olajoku Park, at the Gbongan Junction, where my father was brutally murdered. Ogbeni Aregbesola is a great and humane man who is rare to find on this earth. He has been there for us,” Olajoku said.

He declared that his father was murdered by the anti-progressive elements in the state, adding: “We all know the truth. My father was killed when the political scene in Osun State was tense; and we all know it was a

political killing. Some people’s thirst for power shows they are myopic. But in the end, the same power which they thought was their birth right was taken away from them by God and the judiciary. Where are they today?

They didn’t want the then opposition party to redeem the mandate they stole.”

When reminded that Osun State would soon hold local council elections he replied: “ACN in Osun State has shown the world that we are working. Have you not heard of the OponImo, Ipad look-alike tablets that are being distributed to secondary school pupils in the state and which contain all their syllabuses and subjects? The computer system is even solar- powered. Osun State is moving and I can tell you that in any election, our great party will win all the available seats.

The forthcoming council election will

‘We all know the truth. My father was killed when the political scene in Osun State was tense; and we all know it was a political killing. Some people’s thirst for power shows they are myopic. But in the end, the same power, which they thought was their birth right, was taken away from them by God and the judiciary. Where are they today’

be another litmus test for us as a government, but we are fully prepared to win all the seats as we had done in past elections. This is because the governor has touched the lives of all Osun people positively, and they are happy for it.”

He spoke further: “Aregbesola’s government is the best administration Osun State had had since its creation in 1996. Before the coming on board of the administration in 2010, flood destroyed lives and property in the state so much that people lost their means of livelihood and their loved ones, but now, the story is different. Before now, roads in the state were in dilapidated conditions, but now, the governor has been roundly commended for his good works, so much that he has even been nicknamed “Oba baba ona”, meaning, “king of the roads repairs.” Is it the Oyes (Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme), which employed over 20,000 youths, thereby drastically reducing unemployment in the state?

Or, is it the agricultural sector he revitalised by providing arable lands and funds to farmers to ease their age-long burden of lack of government’s support? The governor has redefined governance in the state.”

45

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NATURAL HEALTH THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

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By Wale Adepoju

LCER is an ailment afflicting many; yet they don’t know how they came about it. What causes ulcer? It is caused by the bacterium, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), especially gastric and duodenal ulcers. The chronic use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin, is another major cause of ulcer. Cigarette smoking is also another cause of ulcer. It can also disturb the treatment of ulcer. But eating raw cabbage and banana daily can heal stomach ulcer, a traditional medicine practitioner, Dr Lambo Adebisi, has said.

According to him, the fruits contain antibacterial substance that slow down the growth of ulcer-causing bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Adebisi, Managing Director of LAMDEBS Clinic, Ojota, Lagos, said studies have shown that animals fed with bananas have a thicker stomach wall and greater mucus production.

This, he added helps build a barrier between digestive acids and the lining of the stomach.

“Also, honey may be taken by patients to soothe and reduce inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Colloidal silver can kill the H. pylori bacterium, as it also helps to heal injured stomach tissues (ogbe inu, yoruba).

He identified other herbal-plants like garlic as a good plant with antibacterial properties that can fight the ulcer causing bacteria, H. pylori: “Likewise, plums and other red and purple colored foods such as berries slow down the growth of H. pylori. Coconut oil kills the bacteria that cause ulcers, but it’s mostly a long-term remedy. Raw goat milk also helps. Stomach ulcers, he said are small holes or sores in the gastrointestinal tract, which affect a lot of people daily.

Adebisi said the major symptom of an ulcer is a burning or gnawing feeling in the stomach area, adding that it can last for about three hours. “Usually, a patient may experience pain in the upper abdomen. Sometimes, it may be below the breastbone. There are several natural remedies which can heal and soothe stomach ulcers without taking medications.

“Other symptoms are recurrent vomiting, black stool, blood in the stool and anaemia.

Sometimes, ulcer pain may be misinterpreted as heartburn, indigestion or hunger. Stomach ulcers are caused by the destruction of the gastric or intestinal mucosal lining of the stomach by hydrochloric acid.”

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Cancer: Where you never thought to look

OU know where to check for breast cancer, but do you know where to check for skin cancer? Skin is the largest organ on our bodies, but it can be easy to overlook some spots. For instance, when was the last time your doctor took a good look at your feet? For that matter, when is the last time you looked at the bottoms of your feet?

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 3.5 million cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. Harmful sun rays often cause skin cancer, but skin cancer on the feet can also be related to viruses.

Take a few minutes to examine your skin and take a look at your feet. Don’t forget to look at the bottoms and in between toes. If you notice anything unusual, make an appointment to see your doctor.

“Most [skin cancers] are painless, but often there’s a history of recurrent cracking, itching, bleeding, or ulceration,” cautions Dr. Gary Stones, Podiatrist and New York State Podiatric Medical Association President. “These cancers often go undiagnosed until another issue presents itself near the affected site.” Podiatrists are trained to recognize skin conditions of the foot.

•Five things that harm your heart As with all types of cancer, early detection and treatment may result in a more positive prognosis.

Skin cancer warning signs

On the foot, basal cell cancers can appear like noncancerous skin tumors or benign ulcers. Skin cancer on the foot can often look like plantar warts, fungal infections, eczema, or other dermatological conditions.

Make an appointment to see your doctor if you notice: non-healing sores; bumps that crack and bleed; inflamed bumps; nodules with rolled edges or scaly areas; callouslike lesions and ongoing itchiness. A skin biopsy can identify whether cells are cancerous or noncancerous.

Meanwhile, there are five things that harm your heart and which you ought to be wary of. The human heart, according to ancient healers in India, is actually two hearts: the physical heart and the emotional heart. One keeps us alive, the other keeps us happy. Of course, this is a metaphorical way of looking at an organ that is essentially a wondrous machine. But this description works

well for me when I try to think of ways to keep my heart in good shape. It tells me that I must not only pay attention to the foods I eat, but also the thoughts that I think and the feelings that I feel.

Here are five proven heart-harming agents. Avoid them, and stay well: Carrying a grudge: or feeling intense anger, which remains bottled up. Very dangerous for the heart, because it raises blood pressure and makes you vulnerable to damage from free radicals, the agents of disease and aging. Let off steam from time to time.

Smile more. Don’t walk around with an inflated ego. Be willing to apologize and make up. Life is too short to surround yourself with negativity. Help your heart; be a positive person.

Carrying a ‘beer belly’: A paunch can indicate coronary artery disease, which means you are at a greater risk of heart attack. Add to this the infamous ‘muffin top,’ and you’re looking at a very serious health threat. The solution: get off the couch. Toss away the bag of potato chips, and ditch the alcohol. Move, for your heart’s sake!

Sitting long hours: A sedentary lifestyle makes us sitting ducks for heart disease.

Research has shown that even light to moderate exercise helps improve blood flow and makes the heart stronger. Also, try to get your full quota of sleep, because lack of adequate rest also places extra strain on the heart.

Large portion sizes: when we eat more than we should, we put on weight. All those extra pounds force the heart to work harder, and eventually weaken it. The best way to keep your weight in check is to eat less. Eat from a smaller plate. Avoid second helpings. Share dessert and fried foods if you must eat them. For every morsel you decline, your heart is one beat more grateful!

Lack of company: Loneliness can be a terrible thing. And its effects are not limited to the outpourings of poets and lovers. The heart takes the brunt of solitary suffering, and studies show that people with fewer friends die sooner than those with strong social bonds. Step out and mingle with people. Call a friend. Open your heart!

•Source: www.care2.com/ greenliving

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46

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NATURAL HEALTH

Clinic Day: Questions and Answers lemon to which one capsule of cayenne is added. Not only does it improve digestion, especially if taken with a meal, the Apple Cider Vinegar and lime or lemon combination is alkalizing while Cayenne is a circulation driver.

Hormonal imbalance:

The month of May…

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HE month of May is crawling out of the 2013 Gregorian calendar. Unknown to many people, this is one of the greatest months of the year. For me, it is one of the three months of the year when I strive to detatch from the hurly burly of bread and butter to try and answer the most important question in the existence of anyone …

MAN, HOW DO YOU STAND? This question refers not to earthly achievement but to what befalls everyone at the end of earthly sojourn when the soul, nay the spirit, continues its journey either through the overhanging worlds back home to Paradise, becomes earthbound, or remains trapped in the perishable parts of Creation to, one day, with these parts, undergo disintegration into primordial constituents which, for man, is the final judgment or erasure from the Book of Life.

In the working of Creation, a stupendous occurrence takes place from time to time in what, for us on plannet earth, is the month of May. That is when Creation receives power from On High for its renewal and maintenance. If we can imagine the human heart pumping blood round the body to maintain it, we can have a faint image of what is going on in the cosmos at this time. In the fields and forests of planet earth, there is regeneration. Different zones of the earth call it different names. In some, it is spring, in another, it may be the onset of rainy season. But the dynamism of this season is not limited to vegetation or other effects of the forces of Nature. In the soul of man, this power wraughts wonders. It is neutral power, though, like atomic energy or electricity, which may be deployed to good or bad ends, or which drives thought any action in accordance with the nature of the soul … dark, heavy, ugly and evil, or luminous, light, beautiful and good. If we calmly reflect some of the personal or social events around us which touch us much more than any other, we may discover that they happened just before May, in May, or soon after. Some that have just occurred to me are the …

• May Kano riots of 1953 • The political crisis in the Action Group Party of Western Nigeria which led to Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa’s government declaring a State of Emergency in that region.

• With a casualty record as high as 40 men in each of two separate incidents, what may pass for the highest number of Nigerian Policemen to be killed in any incident in this country took place in two skirmishes.

• In the United Kingdom, the dust is yet to settle in respect of the beheading of a British soldier by two young men. This incident has exposed the double standards of Anglo-American foreign policy. President Barrack Obama, of the United States, and the British Prime Minister vehemently denounced the murder as a terrorist act, whereas, in Nigeria, they saw the mass murder of Christains during Sunday worship by extremist Islamic militants as poverty induced and have been pressing the Nigerian government to throw money at it and grant the terrorists State pardon!

• Only time will tell what led the Gen. Abubakar Abdusallam military government to hand over power on a May 29, and President Olusegun Obasanjo to declare that date as Democracy Day. As I said, this is a season in which the good, the bad and the ugly emerge in more force and magnitude in every thought and action. It cannot be any season other than PENTECOST, when power to renew Creation, streams down from On High.

The Lord Jesus knew of it and asked His Disciples to gather in the Upper Chamber of a house to absorb and use this Power aright. And they did, as reported, upon receiving It. This Power is the Breath of Life. Many Christians believe that event was a one-off experience. How wrong they are! And that is why it is tied every year to the remembrance of the Crucifixtion and Ressurection and not celebrated in its own right as a yearly abiding Grace of God without which Creation will shrivel, wither and pass away. As I prepared last week to partake of the festival of Penticost today, during which there is an outpouring of Power from the Holy Spirit, and strive to consciously absorb the rays of this Power to the point to which I can open my soul for it, I knew Joy when I met a woman in Shomolu, a suburb of Lagos, whose church celebrated Pentecost only last week. Mrs Arinola Balogun lives at 80 IgiOlugbin Street on Pedro-Ladylak area axis, Shomolu, and attends the Cherubim and Seraphim Church at 8 to 10 Gbeto Street, Onike, another Lagos suburb. I’d known her for about 20 years. Last week, her face looked drawn. When I pressed her to know why, she told me the members of her church had been fasting in preparation for the celebration of Pentecost.

My countenance changed. She asked me why it did. I told her I would be away this week for Pentecost. We looked into each other’s eyes, and, on my prompting, we said a little prayer.

May everyone everywhere in this Universe who beseeches the Lord for strength to fulfil His Holy Will receive this Power abundantly today. AMEN.

My Sinuses

Are back …

I suffered from chronic sinusitis for about 20 years until about four months ago when an Alternative Medicine practitioner gave me Oregano nasal spray and some biochemic cell salts. For the first time in a long while, I was able to sleep well and to breathe with my nose. But now, the symptoms are creeping back. I’d thought it was all over. What do I do now?

Sinusitis therapy is painstaking and requires patience and willingness to crack the condition at its roots. Even long after the symptoms may have abated, it is advisable that you continue to take your medicines.

After I read one of your columns, I ran some tests (I am a man) Some of the results are as follows: • Testosterone 14.2ng/ml (normal 3.0 – 10.3) • Estrogen 181pg/ml (4 – 94) Blood sugar 7.2 • PSA 04 • Prostrate size 44.3cm (normal up to 40cm) • Urine… no bacterial growth after 48 hours • Heaviness in left side of the body after taking water

There are many possible causes of sinusitis, which is an inflammation of some or all of the eight sinusses. The sinusses are a network of cave-line structures behind the nose. Some of these interconnecting cavities are small. Others are large. They are all lined by a munus-producing membrane out of which jot out hair-like structures called Cilia.

The job of this membrane is to produce mucus which helps to trap foreign bodies such as germs and smoke and thus prevents them from gaining access to the body through the nose, lungs and blood. If this membrane overproduces mucus, a congestion or blockage may occur as a reaction or over-reaction of the membrane to stimuli. The stimuli may come from germs, allergy- producing substances such as smoke, gas, pollen in the air, petrol fumes, dust, chemicals in foam mattresses, or from the dust of a broken washing machine belt. Often, bacteria, viruses and black mold are present in these cavities as a consequence of a compromised immune system. Some physicians believe, however, that these germs are not the “root causes” of the problem. They point to liver flukes (flat worms), organisms in the pancreas or gall bladder, or in the root canals of the teeth. Once they invade these organs, these organisms weaken them and the immune system is overburdened or exhausted while trying to get rid of them. Thus, it has little or no energy to confront micro-organisms far away from the major “war zones”. One physician likens concentration of efforts on the sinuses in a sinusitis therapy to putting out a fire in a ship which originated in the engine room and then spread to the cabins.

Putting the fire out from the cabins is less productive, he says, than knocking it out the engine room.

Thus, in addition to Oregano oil nasal spray, your therapist must have given you other supplements to tackle the “engine room cause” of this condition. As you mentioned biochemic cell salts, SILICA must have been one of them. If your nasal discharge was clear, he would have suggested Natrum Mur, another biochemic cell salt, or Kali Sulph, if it was yellow. If it was reddish or bloody, ferrum phosphate would be it for the liver, I’d propose the proprietary products Liver Balance, Carquaja, Milk thistle, Dandelion, Burdock root, Aloe vera, Amazon Liver Support etc. For the bacteria in the sinuses, I’d suggest Amazon C-F and Enchinacea Supreme, which comprises Echinacea, Golden Seal and Grape Seed Extract. I love Golden Seal Root as a single herb. It dries up excess mucus secretion. But it should be used with a supplement such as Vitamin A which can be obtained from high quality Cod Liver Oil. This sometimes combines Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) i.e Omega-3 oils. Talking about oils, Shark Liver Oil is indepensable for the therapy, being an anti-cold and flu remedy loaded with an oxygenating substance which enables the shark live deep in the water where life-sustaining oxygen is scarce. Oregano oil is fine healing oil. I use the Oregano oil soft gel any time I sense trouble in the gums or teeth is brewing. I break the soft gel with my teeth and swing the oil around with my tongue for about 30 minutes and then swallow it, to continue its work in the organs and in the intestines. This therapy should confront fungi and viruses in the sinuses as well. It is a pity that the star antifungal warehouse, Amazon A-F, is scarce in the market now. But there are good substitutes in such products as PauD’Arco, Bellaco Capsi, and, when it comes to liver flukes, Amazon A-P and Paracleanse may be tried.

Sinusitis may flare up in a cold or wet season such as this.

The nose should not be blown too hard to eliminate mucus.

For it may force a mucus back-up in the sinuses which may worsen the condition. It is better to keep the face and sides of the eyes and the nose warm with a hot towel massage or, better still, with a hot face towel massage or, better still, with a hot water bottle. This keeps the blood and other circulation, including the mucus, flowing.

For allergies, a simple remedy may help. Chew the peel of an orange or that of any other citrus fruit. It contains an oil called lemolene. I often ask people who suffer from cold to chop it into tiny bits add some water and then bring the water to the boil under gentle heat. The water and oil extract may be used to gaggle the throat. It clears minor yet troublesome cough and some problems of the nose! Another good remedy is a drink of the solution of Apple Cider Vinegar and lime or

You did not state if the testosterone measured was total testosterone or free. As you may have been advised, testosterone is the dominant male hormone, and is produced in the testes. Estrogen is the dominant female hormone. If total testosterone or free testosterone is elevated in the bloodstream, one may assume that the testes are either over functioning, that you are under a testosterone replacement or supplementation therapy through, say, the testosterone skin patch, to correct low testosterone which may cause low sperm count, e.t.c or that the pituitary gland, which controls the reproductive organs, is over pushing the testes to overwork.

Whatever it is, when testosterone arrives in the bloodstream proteins immediately attach to it, leaving about four per cent as free (that is unattached or unbound) testosterone. Many doctors believe that free testosterone we should worry about.

For excess free testosterone may cause anything from baldness to prostrate cancer and heart problems. So, you may need to have your heart checked by a cardiologist, to at least confirm or overrule the possibility that heaviness on the left side of the body is, or is in no way associated with those matters. In the interim, you may wish to support your heart’s health with Ubiquinol brand of CoQ10, Hawthorn Barnes, Selenium, Wheat germ oil or Vitamin E (d–alpha mixed tocopherols), Vitamin B Complex ( 50mg or 75mg) to ease stress or dissolve homocysteine if this substance is causing a blockage or congestion in the blood vessel network system and Kyolic cholesterol, to help normalise high cholesterol levels.

As healthy testosterone levels have been associated with manly courage and, dexterity, elevated testosterone has been associated with risky behaviour. According to the Journal of Behavior Medicine, a study of some men found that subjects with elevations were more likely to have had an Injury (24 per cent), heavy drinking (32 per cent), STD (35 per cent) and smoking (15per cent). Other possible signs of an elevated testosterone are aggressiveness, mood swings, lowered fertility, hair loss, testicular shrinkage, prostate enlargement.

Many doctors do not think men naturally have elevated testosterone as easily as one may catch a cold. They believe it may come with an abuse of steroid drugs and performance enhancers.

In a condition of elevated testosterone, it is advisable to rebalance the endocrine glands and the nerves which control them, protect and nurture the testes, rid the bloodstream and organs of parasitic micro–organisms, and care, especially, for the pituitary gland.

Low testosterone levels and high estrogen levels running together are more common in men. In this condition, there may be organ or glandular failures. As stated, large amounts of testosterone in the bloodstream is bound to a protein named Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). Another portion is converted to estrogen (estradiol) while the remainder is converted to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) the estrogen portion is important for the proper functioning of the Hypothalamus Pituitary – Gonadic Complex in the production of Sex hormones. DHT the free testosterone can be dangerous, causing prostrate enlargement and prostrate cancer, if elevated. Researchers have found it is elevated easily in a state of Zinc deficiency and Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) deficiency.

Testosterone level may fall and estrogen level may rise in men if the men have a lot of belly fat, as belly fat helps to convert testosterone to estrogen. Exposure to environmental estrogens, such as eating food which was wrapped in cellophane, or eating Poultry Chicken and Turkey and their eggs, and drinking milk may increase the estrogen load. Cows are given estrogen in their feed to stimulate their breasts so they can produce milk ever day, nursing or not. The estrogen gets into the milk and their flesh. Poultry Chicken, too, are given estrogen in the feed to stimulate their ovaries so they can lay eggs almost every day of their lives. The estrogen gets into the flesh and the egg.

Pesticides used in agriculture leave zenoestrogens on farm plant produce. Thus, as estrogen levels increase and testosterone decreases, erectile dysfunction and loss of Libido may occur. And the enzyme 5 – Alpha neduitase, which converts free testosterone to DHT, becomes more active, especially in the absence of zinc, portending danger.

DHT binds to the prostrate gland, causing it to enlarge, and to hair follicles, causing baldness.

Lovemaking and excuse are recommended for increasing testosterone levels and fat burning to cut down testosterone conversion to estrogen. The herbs Christin and stinging nettle have compounds which block the conversion of testosterone to DHT saw Palmetto berries act in similar way, with its essential fatty acids. DHEA (Dehydroepia and Rosterone), produced in the adrenal glands, help to maintain hormonal balance. In stressed up people, the adrenals are weak or burnt out and so, produces less DHEA. Thus, adrenal care is important in high or low testosterone problems. There are more natural possible solutions than space and time will allow.

e-mail: femi.kusa@yahoo.com or olufemikusa@yahoo.com Tel: 08116759749, 08034004247, 07025077303

47

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

THE NATION

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

About one month ago, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) directed telecom gaint MTN, which it described as the dominant operator, to take steps to ensure a level-playing field in the industry. It threatened to impose price caps on wholesale leased lines and transmission. While MTN is yet to comply, analysts doubt if NCC will walk the talk, writes LUCAS AJANAKU.

Can NCC halt MTN’s dominance?

W

HEN the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) declared two mobile operators as the dominant players in the telecommunications market and promised to take steps to protect subscribers and other operators, the public welcomed the move.

Those who praised the NCC’s action recalled the days of the former state-run, Nigerian Telecommunication Limited (NITEL) and its mobile subsidiary, MTEL, which monopoly was to the detriment of the industry.

Whereas there were only about 5,000 lines in the days of NITEL, today there are more than 113 million lines. NCC said there is need to ensure fair play. So, in June last year, in exercise of its power to “ensure fair competition in all sectors of the communications industry” vide section 1 (e) of its Act, it embarked on a Study of the Assessment of the Level of Competition in the Industry.

KPMG Professional Services was in the same month engaged to carry out a Study on Assessment of the Current Level of Competition in the industry, having undertaken a similar study for the Commission in 2005. For the study, the market was segmented into mobile voice market, fixed voice market, mobile data market and upstream market.

“The mobile voice market is not effectively competitive and is still highly concentrated with an HHI of 3063. MTN has a 44 per cent market share of subscribers within this market. There is also a wide differential (of about 300 per cent) between on net and off net calls and this is indicative of the likely establishment of a calling club for MTN subscribers,” the report said.

In the fixed voice market, it said though Starcomms (with about 33 per cent market share of subscribers) has the highest market share within the fixed voice market, it is not considered to have significant market power in this market as it has consistently lost market share over the past three years. The fixed voice market has been on the decline since 2008 and has lost 70 per cent of its market over that period while in the mobile data market, the report noted that it accounts for 99 per cent data market.

“The GSM operators lead this market segment. The major competition concern is that the wholesale providers of bulk bandwidth also play in the retail mobile data market and potentially stifle competition in this market. The study, however, concluded that no operator is dominant within the mobile data market,” it added.

In the upstream market, MTN and Glo control about 62 per cent of the public terrestrial transmission infrastructure, which is a bottleneck resource in the provision of voice and data services. There are concerns that operators playing in the wholesale and retail sub segments of these markets have the leverage to “squeeze” the margins of their competitors who are also their customers.

•Engineers installing a submarine cable.

In view of these, the NCC resolved that the Dominant Operator in the mobile voice market shall be required to certain obligations, which incude accounting separation, collapse of on net and off net retail tariffs and submission of required details.of operations from time to time as the need arises. “The Commission shall make a determination of pricing principle to address the rate charges for on-net and off-net calls for all other operators,” NCC added.

In the wholesale leased lines and transmission capacity market, which are dominated by Glo and MTN, NCC said they shall be required to adhere to the obligations of price cap/price floor, accounting separation, and submission of required details.

NCC said all these would take effect from “May 1, 2013 and remain valid and binding on licencees for the services specified in relevant market segment of this sector until further reviewed by the commission.”

Analysts have faulted the attempt of the NCC to cap the price in the wholesale and transmission sector. “How do you regulate what you do not own? This is the major problem with the deregulation of the downstream oil sector. The govern-

ment said it deregulated and issued licences to people to build refineries and insisted in capping the price of the finished products. That is why no private enterpreneur is jumping at the offer,” a sector analyst said on condition of anonymity.

“MTN should, among others, collapse on-net and off-net retail tariffs immediately. MTN booster weekly prepaid charge, for instance, offers MTN-to-MTN calls at 10 kobo per second; while subscribers are charged 150 per cent more – 25 kobo per second – for calls to other networks. At 30 kobo per second for calls from the second minute till the rest of the day, “MTN Super Saver off-net call rates are exploitative. There is a huge difference of 200 per cent as it charged 10 kobo per second for on-net calls,” a subscriber lamented.

But the General Manager, Public Affairs, MTN, Funmi Omogbenigun, concedes the power to regulate tariffs to NCC. She, however, added that the telco was in talks with the regulator on the market dominance.

“By law, NCC must approve tariffs; as such, we are in discussion with the NCC. We are also discussing the implementation with the NCC, to ensure that their directive is implemented in a manner that

Analysts have faulted the attempt of the NCC to cap the price in the wholesale and transmission sector. ‘How do you regulate what you do not own? This is the major problem with the dreregulation of the downstream oil sector. The government said it deregulated and issued licences to people to build refineries and insisted in capping the price of the finished products. That is why no private enterpreneur is jumping at the offer’

causes the least possible negative impact on our customers, if any,” she said.

Glo’s Talk-Free pre-paid package, onnet calls cost 15 kobo per second and 18 kobo per second for off-net calls. On Glo Hi-Flier and G-BAM Hi 5ive, subscribers enjoy the same 18 kobo per second charge to any network within Nigeria. But subscribers say it charges 10 kobo per second for on-line calls on Glo Gista, but 30 kobo per second for off-net calls, while Glo 1derful rates for voice calls are 15 kobo per second for on-net calls and 25 kobo off-net. These, they argue, is also exploittative.

Airtel has 2good Classic and Airtel Club 10, among other packages. For the former, voice calls have a flat rate of 18 kobo per second for calls to all national destinations, irrespective of the network. Airtel Club 10 requires subscribers to register 10 Airtel lines of family, friends or associates which would then enable calls to be made at 8.34 kobo per second. Calls to other Airtel numbers on this package cost 20 kobo per second on-net and 30 kobo per second off-net.

Etisalat has Easy starter, among its several bouquets. Calls to networks cost 50 kobo per second, while Homezone calls are charged at 40 kobo per second whether on-net or off-net. On Easycliq, calls within the network at peak period cost 40 kobo per second and a minimal increase to 50 kobo per second for off-net calls.

Omogbenigun argued that the difference between MTN’s on-/off-net tariff is competitive. “With respect to the other comments in your enquiry on MTN tariffs, our response is that the differential between our on-/off- net tariff is extremely competitive compared with other operators.

Indeed, the differential between on-/offnet tariffs for one network is as much as 1000 per cent,” she said.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

48

e-Business

Z

Zinox builds digital plant

INOX Technologies Group, said it has completed the installation of its 21st Century digital PC/phones assembly plant, ahead of the deadline set last year by management.

Committed to the manufacture of quality ICT equipment to empower digital natives to drive the development of the nation, Zinox has tested the reliability of the digital plant, first of its kind in Africa.

The plant has capacity to assemble in-house brands as well as execute contract manufacturing for other brands.

In a statement, the Corporate Affairs Consultant of the Zinox

Group, Mr. Echika Ezuka, said the digital plant with multiclass functionality produces smart desktops, laptops, tablet PCs, phones, and is structured to produce a wider range of gadgets with available components.

He said the digital plant has enhanced the capacity of Zinox to keep pace with international quality standards.

“Zinox would now be more competitive in terms of pricing, delivery and after sales support while increasing the rate of introducing new products,” he said, adding that it is an opportunity for Zinox to customise large orders.

Centum, IDM to inaugurate academy

•From left: Director, Strategy & Investment, Phase3 Telecom, Zeme Elaiho; Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Jegede and President, International Arch of Europe Award Convention, Jose Prieto, at this year’s edition of the award in Frankfurt, Germany.

NCC canvasses local IT training for ex-militants T

HE Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has got the greenlight to train some former militants for reintegration into the society.

The training will be at NCC’s Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) in Oshodi, Lagos.

Vice President of the Institute, Dr Okechukwu Ugweje told The Nation when the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Communications Technology, Dr Henry Akpan, visited the institute’s Oshodi, Lagos Campus. He said there was no further need to take people under the Amnesty Programme who desire training in any field of information communication technology (ICT) to other parts of the world when the facilities, competence and capability to do so are available at home.

“The Federal Government is training a lot of people as part of the Amnesty Programme. Some people were even sent overseas for training. We believe that instead of going overseas, we can train here in Nigeria and we have facilities here at the DBI to train the amnesty people in ICT. Anything that is related to ICT, anything that is related

Stories by Lucas Ajanaku

to film, cinema and cinematography and anything related to computers. They can do the training in Nigeria instead of taking Nigerians to other countries. We have more than enough facilities here at DBI. We also have the capability.

That is why I said we are prepared for such training,” Ugweje said.

Though he said the number of exmilitants that would be trained was not known, an official of DBI said some thousands of the militants are expected in batches in Lagos. “So many of the ex-militants will be trained here, but for a start, some 300 will be trained in the first batch while the second batch will accommodate the same numbers.

We hope the Federal Government will continue with the training,” he said on condition of anonymity.

Akpan expressed satisfaction with the state of facilities in the campus, adding that they will help train the crop of ICT entrepreneurs that will move the country to the

next level.

“DBI has changed the aesthetics of the structure. DBI will provide opportunity for the youth to learn and reduce poverty and restiveness.

We are interested in knowing how soon we will be converting the structure to use,” Apkan said.

Ugweje said the institution has patnered both local and international universities to deliver internationally acceptable curriculum to the people that pass through it. “We already have partners. We have partnered with Nigerian universities, we have international partners in ICT. In fact, partnership is one of the strengths of the DBI vcos. We partner with a lot of institutions in the US, Europe, as well as universities in Nigeria. We have been doing that. We shall continue to do this. I don’t want to start naming the universities because they may not have direct relevance to the amnesty ptogramme. The amnesty programme is coming up anytime from now,” he added.

Why local content failed, by NITDA

W

HY has the local content policy not made an impact? It is because of the government’s inability to convince its ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to patronise local software and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Director-General, National Technology Development Agency (NTDA), Prof Cleopas Anagaye, said these OEMs lacked capacity, throughput and performance analyses.

He spoke at a forum by the Pan African University, Lekki, Lagos entitled: Role of ICT in the transformation agenda in job creation.

He said when the directive to partonise the OEMs was issued in

2006 during Obasanjo administration, the aim was to grow the local OEMs for job creation.

But one of the local OEMs, Beta Computers, described the allegations as baseless, insisting that none of the factories of the local OEMs is running above 25 per cent.

Its Managing Director,Will Anyaegbunam, said the MDAs misinformed the NITDA chief, adding that the mentality to keep patronising foreign brands and inability to monitor and sanction erring MDAs are responsible for the situation.

“Seven years down the line, another directive was issued last year.

Let the MDAs come out and say, ‘We gave this OEM jobs to do, but

it could not meet up with quality and schedule of delivering the job.’ They keep advertising foreign brands in their offices.

“As for support, they are talking balderdash. NITDA should monitor and sanction them.

Toyota, IBM and other world class manufacturers have had causes to recall goods already in the market. NITDA is a technology development agency. It should help in developing OEMs,” he said.

Angaye said the ‘directive’ required that they should patronise indigenous software and computers. He insisted that no sooner had the directive been implemented than the MDAs, especially, public institutions, started complaining.

How Nigeria can grow IT adoption

“N

IGERIA is trailing South Africa in the adoption of Information Technology (IT), an expert has said. According to Michelle Bulbring, adoption of IT is low in Nigeria compared with that of South Africa.

Bulbring, who is the Regional Manager, Africa, Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) of eBeam, said Nigeria’s adoption capacity is lower that that of South Africa.

Speaking at the sealing of a deal with Technology Distribution Limited (TDL) in Lagos, she said the

country has huge market with high prospect for growth, adding that the country will overtake South Africa in the next two or three years if the right things are done.

According to her, development cannot be achieved if IT adoption is not increased and made to permeate the different strata of the economy, especially the education sector.

According to her, with the eBeam ineractive technology solution, teaching and learning can be achieved in compelling lessons that excite the children and create en-

thusiasm for learning.

She adds that a company executive can host a meeting that allows everyone to contribute, no matter where they are, up to 25 locations. “eBeam systems recognise that schools and businesses often have tight budgets, therefore, the solutions can be used on the projectors and white boards that you already own or on the wall in the absence of a white board,” she added.

She said the systems are designed to bring interactivity to the environment with relevant solutions that will work.

C

ENTUM Learning is partnering International Data Management Services (IDM) to launch Centum International Academy in Nigeria to offer high end vocational education programs in various professions.

The Managing Director of IDM Chief J.C.Dugad said the centre, which will be based on skill and vocational acquistion, will eradicate unemployment in the country, adding that trainees would become entrepreneurs on graduation.

He further said the agreement IDM has with Centum Learning will cut across Nigeria and Ghana and will provide best in class content and will certify candidates jointly with IDM.

T

By Deji Fakorede

The Chief Executive of IDM Atul Kshetry said the company has established an international quality voice-based customer care centre in Abeokuta that is offering employment to over 1,000 persons in the region, which will cater to the industry.

He said the partnership is looking at providing a short term and long term programmes covering vocations as mobile repair, mobile engineering, Telecom Call Centre executives, programmes for customer service executive, business process outsourcing (BPO) services executive and hospitality.”

ASUS Fonepad for launch

ECHNOLOGY firm, ASUS, said the ASUS Fonepad, will soon be launched in Africa.

According to a statement, it is the first Android tablet that runs the new Intel processor and is a budget-friendly option in the market, adding that it was built upon the successes of the ASUS 7" Android tablet range.

The Fonepad brings real voice capabilities to a tablet, incorporating all phone and tablet functions into a single device, the firm added.

Regional Director of Asus Africa, Shawn Cheng, said the continent is central to its business. “Africa is a priority market and ASUS Africa will release all their new products at the same time with other markets. Users will now be able to enjoy the ASUS quality and

value without the wait,” he said.

The Asus Fonepad will have the new 1.2GHz Intel Atom processor Z2420. This processor was specifically designed by Intel for smartphone and tablet devices.

Intel Country Manager for West Africa, Ekundare Olubunmi, said: “Extending our long history of collaboration, including most recently on the ultrabook and Intel-based tablets, we are very excited on our continued collaboration with ASUS. “The new Intel Atom processor Z2420 delivers the power, performance and flexibility required to accommodate a range of devices and market needs. We think the ASUS Fonepad is a very innovative device in an emerging category of 3G tablets with telephony features.”

Airtel introduces Bid & Get service

T

HE telecoms market is set to witness another major breakthrough in service delivery for consumers as Airtel Nigeria introduces the first-ever bidding service in Nigeria tagged Bid and Get .

The service is a direct reverse of the traditional concept of auction, where the highest bidder is declared a winner.

With Airtel Bid and Get, a customer whose bid is the lowest and unique automatically, wins the bid for the advertised item for the day.

The winner can purchase the item for N100 only irrespective of the retail price of the item.

To register for Airtel Bid and Get,

customers are to send the word “BID’ to the short code 3210 free of charge, and thereafter participate in the bid by sending their bid amount to the 3210, at N10 for every bid SMS. The customer, whose bid is the lowest and is unique at the end of the bidding cycle, is declared the successful bidder and would be eligible to buy the product for N100.

On receiving SMS, informing a participant of winning a particular bid auction, the successful bidder is to send the word “WIN” to “3211” and, thereafter, would be presented with his winning at the nearest Airtel office.

Firm unfolds roadmap for IT market

C

YBEROAM has unfolded its strategy for expansion.

The firm organised a forum attended by its partners and was a mix of leading VARs, Resellers and MSSPs. The event included educational keynote, expert presentations and award ceremonies followed by a dinner. Partners were cited for

their valuable and consistent contribution.

While highlighting last year’s successful growth figures and the new market acquisition, Cyberoam said it will strengthen its footprints with an inclusive roadmap strategy for expansion in view of emerging business opportunities.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMA RY AS AT 28-05-13

Consolidated Breweries to invest N10b in 2013

C

ONSOLIDATED Breweries will invest about N10 billion in capacity expansion this year, its Chairman, Prof Oyin Odutola-Olurin, has said.

Addressing shareholders at the 2012 annual general meeting (AGM), he said the company has reserved some N9.5 billion for further investments in the 2013 business year.

She noted that there had been a strong investment drive that had seen investments increasing from N4.7 billion in 2011 to N9.5 billion in 2012.

Besides, she said the recent acquisitions have strengthened the profitability of the company, although high interest costs and other challenges impacted negatively on its performance.

According to her, the company has taken great strides through huge investments in equipment in the breweries and contract production at Sango Otta in order to increase its production.

She disclosed that the increase in volume and production of its‘’33’’ Export Lager Beer brand and malt drinks in cans has made the company to remain tall in the market amidst its competitors, adding that the results have been positive in this regard though the contract brewing led to an increase in variable expenses.

The chairman noted that the simultaneous investments in acquiring breweries while expanding and improving the capacity of its Ijebu-Ode brewery are important steps in establishing a platform for the future growth of the company and maintaining its future competitiveness.

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

She added that in the short term these investments would lead to a higher interest burden and it would take some time before the newly acquired capacities could be fully utilized. ‘’We may still have a few storms to weather but if we press on with our plans, our dreams will culminate in a company in which you will be proud to be a shareholder,” Odutola-Olurin said.

She pointed out that logistics operation of the company also improved in the year under review with an increase of the fleet of its third party transporters, which conveyed products more efficiently into existing and newly achieved markets.

She said the company had already achieved great synergy sequel to the successful merger between Consolidated Breweries Plc, Benue Brewery Limited and DiL Maltex Nigeria Plc early this year. She noted that it has now been able to achieve a major increase in its production capacity and prospective revenue from its expanded brands portfolio.

Managing Director, Consolidated Breweries Plc, Boudewijn Haarsma, noted that though overall market growth had slowed down considerably in 2012, the company posted an increase in the sales of its core brands, driven by the continued strong performance of its ‘33’ Export brand.

He however, pointed out that the group had to accept some volume losses of recently acquired brands when it combined them into one

brand portfolio.

“Overall, the company remained the clear leader in the ‘value segment’ of the Nigerian beer and non-alcoholic malt market, by offering high quality brands at affordable prices,” Haarsma said.

He said 2012 marked a transformation of the company’s production base into a new and modern platform for future growth, adding that the company invested more in expanding and upgrading its production capacity than it had done in the previous five years combined.

“The expansion programme continues in 2013 and is combined with training and development of our staff. The expanded capacity, and the need to remain cost-efficient in a more challenging operating environment, necessitated us recently to close the Agbara bottling plant. This led to the exit or early retirement of some of our staff. The company will continue to sell and produce the successful Maltex brand, making use of the now expanded capacities of its breweries,” Haarsma said.

Following an interim dividend of 30 kobo per ordinary share of 50 kobo each paid late last year, a final dividend of 80 kobo per 50 kobo ordinary share was approved for payment to the shareholders.

Consolidated Breweries grew its turnover by 20 per cent while profit after tax stood at N2.7 billion in 2012. The company achieved a revenue increase of 20 per cent from N27.9 billion in 2011 to N33.5 billion in 2012. The group’s revenue was N37.4 billion in 2012, which represented a 26 per cent increase from 2011 revenue of N29.7 billion. She added that 2012 profit after tax stood at N2.7 billion, which represented a 16 per cent decline from N3.3 billion recorded in 2011. The decline was largely due to tax back duties charged within the year.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 28-05-13

51

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

MONEY LINK

T

HE Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has reaffirmed its commitment to the development of manpower for the banking sector.

President/Chairman of Council of the Institute, Segun Aina disclosed this during his address at the World Press conference to flag off activities marking the institute’s 50th Anniversary in Lagos.

He noted that the institute has continued to fulfill the mandate for the promotion of practice of the banking profession in the country.

Aina said that CIBN would continue to make strategic effort to support banking sector, regulatory authorities and stakeholders as they pursue reforms in the midst of constant changes in the global financial landscape.

He stated that the Federal Government, state governments, Na-

U

N

CIBN reassures on manpower development

IIT’s Institute for Finance, Banking and Insurance (IFBI) - India’s largest banking training institute has announced the launch of the first IFBI center in Nigeria.

In a statement, the firm explained that it would create a talent pool of skilled banking professionals in the country as it also introduces its flagship “PGDB” programme.

The programme, it said, is designed to meet the skill requirements of the fast evolving banking industry in the country.

“NIIT, a leading global talent development corporation, has played a critical role in empowering the youth of Nigeria with employability skills over the last 13 years. NIIT now launches NIIT IFBI, which has trained over 110,000 students and professionals in India for the Banking and Financial Services Industry,” the statement said.

Stories by Collins Nweze

tional Assembly and other regulatory bodies rely on the institute for input into fiscal and monetary policies and related matters, adding that it had at various periods been called upon to serve in special committees of the government on financial matters such as Committees on Drugs and Other Financial Crimes; Nigeria Accounting Standards Board (now Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria); Money Laundering Committee; FSS 2020; National Productivity Board among others.

On ethics and professionalism, Aina said that the institute serves as the Secretariat of Sub-Committees of the Bankers’ Committee, which has helped to reduce cases involving banks and their customers in the courts thereby promoting mutually beneficial relationship between

•Sanusi

both parties. “Since the establishment of the Sub-Committee in 2001, a total of 1,419 cases had been received out of which, 1,277 were amicably resolved, giving a success rate of about 90 per cent,” he said.

F

NITY Bank Plc has received the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard certification, the global information security standard that helps prevent card-related fraud, the lender said in a statement.

Presenting the certificate to Unity Bank, Mrs. Adedoyin Odunfa, Managing Director of Digital Jewels, a consulting firm on the project, said Unity Bank - which currently issues MasterCard and Interswitch Verve cards to its customers - had demonstrated leadership in the industry, being the fifth bank to receive the

certification in the country.

Mrs. Odunfa said: “After achieving the ISO270001 last year, Unity Bank has shown that it is one of the banks at the forefront of good security and compliance by now attaining the PCIDSS certification. You are the second bank in the country to have attained both of those certifications.

That is quite a formidable feat given that there are several other banks who may claim to be more technological advanced than Unity Bank.”

She however, advised Unity Bank’s management not to rest on its oars. “It is a feat that is evi-

denced by the fact that it is a global certification and not a local one and so I will like to say that having attained this, yes, we congratulate ourselves, but we must look forward and ensure that we are able to sustain this certification. That is extremely important,” she said.

Unity Bank’s Managing Director, Ado Yakubu Wanka said the bank is aware that banking is about confidence and as the world economy moves towards card-related transactions, it becomes more important for customers to know that their data is safe with their bank.

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

NIDF NESF

OBB Rate Call Rate

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

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 28-05-13

SYMBOL MCNICHOLS IPWA PRESTIGE AIRSERVICE ETERNA RTBRISCOE NEIMETH HONYFLOUR JAPAULOIL 7UP

O/PRICE 1.72 0.66 0.55 4.31 3.01 1.60 0.80 2.98 0.55 50.00

C/PRICE 1.88 0.72 0.60 4.70 3.24 1.72 0.85 3.15 0.58 52.50

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

CHANGE 0.16 0.06 0.05 0.39 0.23 0.12 0.05 0.17 0.03 2.50

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N)

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

(S/N) Bureau de Change 152.0000 (S/N) Parallel Market 153.0000

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

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

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

O/PRICE

BOCGAS CADBURY CAP COSTAIN AFRIPRUD IKEJAHOTEL INTBREW ASHAKACEM TOTAL UAC-PROP

8.30 58.08 49.44 1.63 1.80 0.78 26.50 27.75 168.50 15.75

C/PRICE 7.47 52.28 45.00 1.50 1.66 0.72 25.01 26.26 160.00 15.16

CHANGE 0.83 5.80 4.44 0.13 0.14 0.06 1.49 1.49 8.50 0.59

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

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%

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

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

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

NSE CAP Index

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

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 28-05-13

SYMBOL

themselves and instill the culture of financial discipline in them.

She said that KidsFirst, the first of the three products to be launched, combines the fun and excitement that children are looking for with the dependability and convenience that parents need. “The partnership with Lego will give KidsFirst account holders access to exclusive Lego events, content and products. As a children’s brand known for both entertainment and educational value, LEGO was the perfect partner for KidsFirst,” she said.

She listed some of the benefits of the products to include low opening and operating balances, an annual scholarship scheme and the convenience of internet banking.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS Tenor

The firm said PGDB has unique technology application training modules, which give a hands-on experience on the latest banking software. “The programme is aimed at providing direct exposure to real-life banking environment with industry immersion and expert interactions. The course offers insights into the domains of retail banking, credit management, international banking, corporate finance and equips the students with crucial professional and life skills such as selling skills, sales planning, business communication, customer service skills,” it said.

FirstBank, LEGO partner on children’s products

IRST Bank of Nigeria Limited has partnered with LEGO, the world’s fourth largest manufacturer of children’s toys to introduce KidsFirst, one of the bank’s children products to the market.

At an exclusive cinema screenings to mark this year’s Children’s Day, the bank unveiled a comprehensive programme that includes three new products, exciting content partnerships, a dynamic new website and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Speaking on the programme, FirstBank’s spokesperson, Folake Ani-Mumuney said the partnership with LEGO represents the bank’s quest to create a platform for Nigerian children to express

Unity Bank receives IT certification

India’s banking institute berths in Nigeria

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE INVE 141.93 141.45 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 161.27 160.20 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.16 1.16 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.15 1.14 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 100.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 1,000.00 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,823.39 1,815.04 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 11,745.35 11,398.85 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous

Current

04 July, 2012

07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

52

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NEWS

•Adamawa State Governor Murtala Nyako (middle); Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Osita Chidoka (left) and Secretary to Adamawa State Government, Kobis Aris, when the governor commited himself to the United Nation’s decade of Action on Road Safety at the FRSC, Abuja

•L-R: President General, Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Dr Rafiu Ladipo,Special Guest of Honour Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Captain of Tesilim Thunder Balogun Academy Ikorodu, (the Winning Team); John Anayo and the organiser of the competition, Mr Rasheed Olumide Tesilim Balogun, at the presentation of the trophy to the winning team at Ikorodu,Lagos... last weekend.

•L-R: Managing Director, Arik Air, Mr. Chris Ndulue, Airline Lecturer, Department of Air Transport, Cranfield University, England, Dr. John F O’Connell and Human Resources/Admin Manager, Mrs. Boumogha Sagay, at a news conference on the partnership between Arik Air and Cranfield University on Manpower Development held at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, lagos... yesterday.

•L-R: Special Assistant to MD/CEO, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Muyiwa Adegoke, an engineer; Director of Operations, Alhaji Mukaila Alani Solola, Managing Director, Nnamdi Udoh at a news conference on Area Radar Control (ARC) at the Murtala Muhammed PHOTO: ISAAC AYODELE JIMOH Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.

•The Commander 9th Brigade Nigeria Army, Ikeja Cantonment Brig-Gen Ade Oyebade (fourth right) visited the chairman, Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Babatunde Oke (third right)in his office, off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos. With them from left are: Mr. Rasheed Pedro, Mrs. Funmilayo Bruice, Hon. Wahab Akerele, Hon. Mustapha Anisere, Capt. Iroko Iyida and others.

•L-R: Commissioner of Police Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) Police Command, Boniface Onyebuchi; Director Admni/Human Resources, Aminu Gusau; Director, Corporate Planning, Timothy Zalanga; Managing Director, Adeseyi Sijuwade and Director of Corporation, Mr Niyi Ali, after a news conference at Ebute Metta, Lagos.

PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

L-R: Mr Austin Nwakaife, Legend promo winner; Mr John Ehiguise, MD/CEO, Mediacraft Associates and Mr Temitope Ogunyemi, legend promo winner, both narrating their Dubai trip experiences at a news conference in Lagos.

• Special Adviser on Education to Lagos State Government, Otunba Fatai Olukoga (second right) receiving an award from Rotarian Dehinde Sohga at the Rotary International Media Recognition of Humanitarian Reporting Awards in Lagos. With them are Rotarian Olugbenga Olowu (second left) and Emmanuel Aipoh, a rotarian.

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

•Participants at the Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria (EHOAN) workshop in Lagos... on Tuesday.

•Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment, Mr Tunji Bello (second right) listening to Chairman, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hakeem Bamgbola (second left) when the commissioner visited the council.

With them are officials of the ministry.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

53

54

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

55

NEWS

Survivor found in sunken vessel From Shola O’Neil,

A

SURVIVOR has been found in a vessel owned by West Africa Ventures (WAV), Jascon 4, which sank off the coast of Escravos, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, on Sunday.

It was learnt that a crew member, identified as the cook, was rescued in the kitchen by divers late on Tuesday.

A source told The Nation that the lucky worker had been placed in a decompression chamber to quicken his recovery.

The source said: “Right now, the cook could provide some answers to questions on what actually happened that Sunday morning.

“The report we got was that it was even the man who tapped one of the divers on the shoulder inside the vessel.”

The vessel sank about 30 kilometre offshore Escravos on Sunday, while performing a routine tension tow of a petrol tanker at the Single Buoy Mooring #3 owned by Chevron Nigeria Limited.

The failure of several search and rescue operations led to concerns that none of the crew survived the accident.

However, the cheery news raised hope over the fate of 11 others, who were yet to be found.

Chevron’s Policy, Government and Public Affairs General Manager Deji Haastrup said he could not speak on the search and rescue operation because it was coordinated by WAV.

TOULON TOURNEY 2013

F/Eagles fall 0-2 to Mexico

•Meet Belgium on Friday

By Paul Oluwakoya

T

HE Flying Eagles were yesterday defeated 2-0 by Mexico in their opening game of the 2013 Toulon Tournament ongoing in France.

The John Obuh-led side, who are yet to face Brazil as well as their 2013 World Cup rivals, Portugal, in their next matches, laboured to hit the back of the net but could nt convert begging chances.

Morales put the Mexicans ahead within 28 minutes.

Though the Nigerian side rallied round for an equaliser, the first period ended 1-0 in the North Americans’ favour.

A second half most pundits thought would be better off, proved worse for Nigeria. The tempo of their play pattern dropped.

The Mexicans took advantage and it was Morales again who completed the brace in the 72nd minute. The nail was thus knocked into the coffin and The Fying Eagles were unable to come back to life.

Nigeria will tackle Belgium in their next match on June 2.

Bakassi returnee in critical state T HE poor sanitary conditions at the St Mark’s Primary School, Akwa Ikot Edem in Akpabuyo –temporary home of Nigerians allegedly evicted from Cameroon– may soon claim its first victim.

Elizabeth (15), who had been living with over 2, 000 other returnees in the classrooms since March 7, developed a strange ailment last month.

She has swollen stomach and feet.

Her father, Edet Ene Okon (40), said she had been hospitalised since then.

Okon said his daughter, who is in the Paediatric Section of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), is in very critical state and may get worse, if nothing is done urgently.

He said efforts to get assistance from the government have proven abortive and the over N200, 000 he has spent so far on her treatment was a donation from the Clan Head of Eyo Edem clan in Akpabuyo.

He lamented that Elizabeth, who needs blood transfusion, is in pains.

Okon said the family was financially exhausted and could not even afford to buy food and drugs.

“Since they pursued us from Cameroon, we left everything we had and came here.

“We don’t have any money and it is only the clan head who has helped us this far.

T

From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

•

THE Edo State Chairman of the Board of Internal Revenue, Oseni Elemah, yesterday refuted claim that the state is broke.

Elemah said: “Edo has seen more prosperity than it has ever seen under successive administrations.

“The resources have been managed well so that tax payers get value for their money.

“Edo is never broke. Have you ever heard that salaries are not being paid?

“Our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is increasing daily. “

•Elizabeth... in the hospital From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

“Please, let the government come to our aid. As I talk to you, I don’t even have N10 and the hospital needs money to continue her treatment.”

Okon said when they first noticed that their daughter was not feeling fine, she was first taken to St Joseph Hospital in Akpabuyo before she was referred to the UCTH. Elizabeth’s mother, Christina, sitting by her daughter, cried: “Please, let something be done quickly about this matter. I don’t want to lose this child, please.”

The youth coordinator of

•Christiana Okon

•Edet Ene Okon

the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Akpabuyo Division, Eyo Okon, expressed worry

about the health and sanitary condition of returnees at the camp.

From Shola O’Neil, Port Harcourt

Two of the woman’s six children were resuscitated at the hospital, where they were rushed to by neighbours.

Eyewitnesses believed that Mrs. Celestine and her children died in their sleep of carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator in their home.

The woman’s husband, identified as Celestine, was said to be away in Port Har-

court, Rivers State.

A source said: “The man was the one who made the discovery because he called his wife and children severally on the phone but got no reply.

This led him to call one of their neighbours who went to the house to find out the situation.”

The neighbour was said to have raised the alarm after persistent knocks on the door failed to elicit any response.

A small crowd gathered

and forced the door open, leading to the discovery of the victims.

The use of power generating sets has increased lately, following two weeks of blackout resulting from the destruction of power transmission lines at Obunagha, which supply electricity to the state.

Police spokesman Alex Akhigbe confirmed the deaths.

The bodies have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa.

Uduaghan: why I’ve not given monarch staff of office

D

ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday said his administration has refrained from presenting a staff of office to the Ovie-Elect of Agbon Kingdom, Michael Omeruo, due to high rate of kidnapping in his domain.

Kokori Kingdom is a subclan in Agbon, Ethiope East Local Government.

He accused the community of complicity in the rising cases of kidnapping in the state.

According to Uduaghan, the community has refused to assist the government to arrest the wanted kidnap kingpin “Kelvin of Kokori”, the alleged mastermind of the attack on Okere Federal Prison wardens, which left three persons dead, including two warders and an unidentified civilian.

The governor spoke at a luncheon organised to mark the Democracy Day in Asaba, the state capital.

He praised the judiciary for its courage in tackling the

THE custom of seizing properties belonging to deceased men and subjecting their widows to several inhumane treatment have now become illegal in Akwa Ibom State.

A bill passed by the House of Assembly and signed by Governor Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday, outlawed the custom.

In his Democracy Day speech, the governor declared that it has become unlawful for widows to be maltreated in the state, saying defaulters risk penalties ranging from fines to three years imprisonment.

‘Edo is not broke’

Generator fumes ‘kill’ family of five in Bayelsa

HERE was tragedy in Azikoro in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, yesterday, following the discovery of the bodies of a woman and her four children. They were apparently killed by fumes from a generator.

Mrs. Chinyere Celestine and four of her children lived in a house located off Goodnews Street in the city before the accident, which was believed to have occurred on Tuesday night.

Maltreatment of widows halted

Probe of inmate’s escape begins

P

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

RISONS authorities have begun investigation into how an awaiting trial inmate, Kelvin Isaiah-Ogeneman, escaped from the Ogwashi-Uku Medium Security Prison in Delta State.

Isaiah-Ogeneman was remanded for alleged kidnapping and car snatching. He had spent four years awaiting trial.

The Assistant Comptroller-General of Prisons (Zone G), comprising Delta, Edo, Anambra, Enugu, Eboyi Prison , Joseph Komolafe, who confirmed the development, said he had given instruction for the commencement of preliminary investigation into the incident.

Komolafe said he had informed Prisons headquarters in Abuja and that officers on duty that Saturday night when the incident occurred had been replaced.

Sources said Isaiah-Ogeneman escaped in collaboration with some prison officers on duty and that his cell was not locked on the night of escape.

A prison official, who pleaded for anonymity, said IsaiahOgeneman was permitted to use a cell phone and a laptop while in custody.

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

menace, adding that Delta State has the highest rate of convicted kidnappers in the country.

He said over 206 robbery/

kidnap suspects have been arrested while 86 convictions have been secured.

Uduaghan urged Deltans to assist government fight violent crimes, stressing that beneficiaries of the proceeds of

kidnapping will not be spared.

The governor said: “Nigerian politics is regional. Every region is struggling for its interest.

“We must struggle for the interest of the Southsouth.

“If we have a son from the Southsouth, we must give him the maximum support.

“There is a struggle for change of administration, but in the last two years, he has been faced with Boko Haram insurgency.

“No other president has faced such challenge in the history of the country.

“If he has any shortcomings, he is human and he is doing the best in tackling the insurgents and he has done well.

“He has to grow into the office of the president because no one was born into it. “ I appeal to politicians as they scheme to get power not to kill all of us as there will not be anyone to govern when they get power.”

Ben Obi’s wife to be buried June 7

THE wife of the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on InterParty Affairs, Senator Ben Ndi Obi, has died.

Deaconess Colette Ojirhomu Ben-Obi died about midnight on April 14 at the National Hospital, Abuja.

The late Mrs Ben-Obi attended St. Andrew’s Primary School, Warri, Delta State, as well as Our Lady’s High School, Efunrun, also in Delta State. She later attended the Young women Christian Association (YMCA), Lagos, where she obtained a certificate in Secretariat Administration.

She studied Administration at the Canical College, Toronto, Canada.

The late Mrs Ben-Obi had an illustrious career in teaching and the media. She was a teacher at Akwarajo Primary School, Koko, Delta State, in 1970. She later joined the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Lagos,same year as a confidential secretaryand rose to the position of a senior staff member with the NTA Properties and Investment Company, a subsidiary of the NTA, until her death.

She was ordained a Deaconess in 1997 and her love for others have brought many to the knowledge of Christ.

A burial plan announced by the family is as follows: Tuesday, June 4 2013: Service of songs at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Maitama, Abuja; Thursday, June 6: Christian wake at her husband’s home in Awka, Anambra State.

The burial will hold on Friday, June 7, at Senator Ben Obi’s compound in Awka, Anambra State.

An outing service will hold at St. Faith’s Cathedral Anglican Church, Awka, on Sunday, June 9.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

56

CITYBEATS Chief Imam in Kirikiri 7 days after bail T

HE Chief Imam of Langbasa Central Mosque, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos, Alhaji Akibu Alarape Adam, is still in the Kirikiri Prisons seven days after he was granted bail by an Igbosere Magistrates' Court for allegedly damaging the fence of an estate belonging to Archbishop Felix Alaba Job. Adam, who was arraigned alongside Alhaji Oseni Falana, Chief Shamisudeen Elegbeleye and Tunde Ashafa, was alleged to have conspired with four others to destroy the fence of a 10-acre land located at Langbasa Estate, valued at N3 mil-

T

T

By Precious Igbonwelundu

lion.

The defendants are currently facing charges of conspiracy and malicious damage contrary to Sections 52, 337 and 409 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos, 2011.

The prosecutor, Michael Okon, had told Magistrate H.O. Omisore, that the defendants sometimes in 2012, at Alaba Estate, Langbasa Town, maliciously damaged the fence. They had pleaded not guilty to the charges and Omisore granted them bail in the sum of N5 million and adjourned the matter till July 2, for trial.

Govt urged to boost employment

HE Federal Government has been urged to boost employment by creating more jobs and financially assisting people to create jobs.

It was the view of the resource persons yesterday at a seminar organised by The Apostolic Faith Church, Mushin, Lagos, to commemorate the Democracy Day. It was entitled: 'Building to last'.

The resource persons, Dr. Alban Igwe, Mrs. Sola Asokeji and Mr. Kayode Oladimeji said unemployment was fast becoming a global problem as countries that used to be greener pastures were also experiencing unemployment.

"This is why the Federal Government should create more jobs. It is now 14 years since we returned to democracy, but Nigerians have

nothing to show for it. There is suffering in the land.

"Government should encourage people who want to be self-employed by financially assisting them. We know that government cannot provide jobs for everybody, but it can boost employment by financially assisting people to start small-scale industries.

'If unemployment is reduced in the country, vices such as armed robbery, thuggery, prostitution, drug trafficking and kidnapping will be curbed. In fact, it will solve insecurity," the speakers said.

The coordinator of the seminar, Mr. Segun Oladeji, said it was organised to encourage people to discover their talents, skills and potential and harness them to become self-reliant.

Insecurity worries Christian body

HE Love of God Evangelistic Association Incorporated, a Christian body, comprising over 30 churches, has joined other prominent Nigerians in urging the Federal Government to convene a Sovereign National Conference (SNC) to save the country from civil war.

The group's president, Rev Joshua T. Adegboyega, spoke at a media briefing on "The Church and the Great Commission," held yesterday to announce the coming evangelistic programme tagged, "Seasons of favour with the King of Kings Jesus Christ." The three-day programme is billed to hold at Council Bus Stop, Motor Garage, Idimu, Lagos, from June 13 to 15, starting from 5.30pm each day.

Adegboyega said: "In order for Nigeria to go forward in reality, to realise her economic growth, social, educational development and political stability, the present administration must take seriously, the words of eminent Nigerians that a Sovereign National Conference must be convened to avoid civil war".

He said this is necessary because of the negative signals coming from the different parts of the country.

The association said the action of President Goodluck Jonathan in de-

By Uyoatta Eshiet

claring a state of emergency in three states in the North is highly commendable as it will bring the wanton destruction of lives and property in the affected states under control.

Adegboyega said the church must continue to pray for Nigeria to be free from her political captors who are diabolically set up to keep the nation backwards with their machinery of corruption.

He said with the privatisation of some government parastatals and the current sad story of the Power Holding of Nigeria (PHCN) which has been slated for privatisation, Nigeria could be said to be a kidnapped state.

The several industries that have either been privatised or slated for privatisation are evidences of politicians' corrupt mindsets towards national assets and government.

The association appealed to the Lagos State Government to revisit two things which are of paramount importance to the welfare of the people - the ban on commercial bike riders to make it possible for them to ride freely in the inner streets to alleviate the suffering of many families that are unemployed, and the ban on posters.

Rotary Club offers free test

T

HE Rotary Club of Opebi (District 9110, Nigeria) and Rotarians for Family Health and Aids Prevention have organised what was tagged "Free Health Day," featuring health screening and counseling exercises, at Melvin Jones Primary Health Screening Foundation, Opebi, Lagos.

A public health specialist with the foundation, Doctor Elong Nathalie, in a chat with The Nation, expressed displeasure at the late coming of the target audience at the event, blaming it on "ignorance, which she said, had prevented people from determining their health status.

She blamed the upsurge in the cases of diabetes and hypertension on unhealthy urban lifestyle like eating fast food, stressful daily living and lack of sporting exercises.

She afterwards counseled all: "Cultivate healthy habit, watch your diet and go for frequent medical check,"

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

By Biodun-Thomas Davids

adding: "The earlier an ailment is discovered, the better the treatment."

Mrs. Julie Adebowale, a volunteer social health worker with Positive Life Organisation of Nigeria, ascribed 80 per cent of cases of HIV/ AIDS and other transmitted diseases to unsafe sex.

She said her group had recorded about 90 per cent success in checking HIV infections and sought zero tolerance on the infections.

Screenings were carried out on HIV and AIDS, diabetes, malaria and others.

Kits available for the free exercise included: HIV/AIDS client intake form, determinant for rapid test, Uni Gold for confirmation of reactive cases; condoms, items for protection against STDs and unplanned pregnancy; sanitary pads and treated mosquito nets.

O

Two ‘drug traffickers’ held at airport

FFICIALS of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have apprehended two men in connection with unlawful exportation of narcotic drugs.

The suspects were arrested at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos with 3.700 kilogrammes of narcotics.

A substance that tested positive to methamphetamine, weighing 1.700kg hidden in the false bottom of a luggage was detected during the outward clearance of Arik Air passengers to Monrovia, while two kilogrammes of cannabis concealed in dried bitterleaf vegetable were found during the outward search of goods meant for export on board Qatar Airline flight.

According to NDLEA Airport Commander Mr Hamza Umar, both suspects were caught during routine checks. Umar said: “A 53year-old, Obianwo Josiah Okwuchukwu, concealed 1.700kg of methamphetamine in his luggage on his way to Monrovia, Liberia.”

The other suspect Ifeanyi Okafor, 38, concealed 2kg of dried weeds that tested positive to cannabis sativa in a bag containing dried bitterleaf vegetable meant for export to Doha, Qatar.

Both suspects from Anambra

A

NEW era began yesterday for motorists plying the Victoria Island axis of the Lagos metropolis. The state governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola declared open, the newlyconstructed Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, to bring to an end, decades of traffic inhibitions in the area. But it won't be opened for motorists until Saturday.

The commissioning ceremony was colourful. Held on the bridge, it attracted eminent personalities including the first Military Governor of the state, Brig. Gen. Mobolaji Johnson (Rtd); his first civilian counterpart, Alhaji Lateef Jakande; Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu I; members of the National Assembly, State House of Assembly, State Executive Council and bodies of permanent secretaries, among others.

Fashola paid special tribute to the late President Umar Musa Yar'Adua for his role in ensuring that the construction of the bridge fruitified.

He recalled some of the challenges encountered by his administration when the idea of the bridge was first conceived.

However, he dismissed the rumour that the delay in the commissioning of the bridge was caused by litigations.

The governor, who said the rumour was the handiwork of mischief makers and enemies of the state, stated that "some patriots pulled out all the stops to accelerate the turning of the wheels of progress".

He singled out President Yar Adua, recalling that despite the difference in political leanings of the state and the federal government, the late president did not hesitate to give his support to ensure the success of the project.

He recalled that when the design of the bridge was completed, four properties were earmarked for demolition at the Ikoyi end of the bridge with two of them belonging to the feder-

‘My problem began when I lost all my savings to the war in Sierra Leone. I have been living from hand to mouth.

My situation was so bad that I agreed to smuggle the drugs for 2,000 dollars’ Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

State have claimed ownership of the drugs saying they were enticed by the monetary reward offered by their sponsors.

In the words of 53-year-old Obianwo Josiah Okwuchukwu: "I have lived in Monrovia for the past five years. I work in a cinema house in order to sustain myself and family.

My problem began when I lost all my savings to the war. I have been living from hand to mouth. My situation was so bad that I agreed to smuggle the drugs for 2,000 dollars."

• Okwuchukwu

The other suspect, Ifeanyi Okafor, said: "I am an importer of babies' clothes. My business was going on fine until I lost 87,000 dollars to fraudsters. In fact, I am yet to recover from that tragic incident that reduced me to a beggar. I was smuggling the 2kg of cannabis for 1,400 dollars. It was carefully packaged but unfortunately, the officers detected it."

NDLEA Chairman, Ahmadu Giade said: "No doubt, stiffer penal-

Fashola commissions •'It's no-go route for commercial bikes, buses, tricycles'

‘When I showed him (the late President Yar ‘Adua) the design in his office in Abuja and explained the project to him, he simply invited Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, who was then Secretary to the Federal Government, to join our meeting’

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie and Miriam Ekene-Okoro

al government.

The governor added that at the height of the dispute between both levels of government over the properties, there were feelers from members of the state executive council that the President Yar' Adua-led federal government would not cede the properties to a state controlled by its main opposition.

"While President Yar' Adua surprised them, he did not surprise me. This was the same

W

HILE many Nigerians celebrated the nation's Democracy Day with revelry yesterday, Dr Ifeoluwa Abiose Arowosoge, who represents the Southwest/Ikere/IseOrun Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, was busy farming, The Nation learnt.

As early as 7 am, the lawmaker, a source informed The Nation, had picked his hoe and cutlass and headed for his farm with his few aides, at a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

"As we speak, I'm about getting to my farm where I want to spend today," he responded to a phone call from this reporter,

president who released our local government funds that were illegally withheld."

"When I showed him the design in his office in Abuja and explained the project to him, he simply invited Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, who was then Secretary to the Federal Government, to join our meeting".

Fashola recalled that President Yar' Adua, at the meeting, immediately ordered the release of the two properties to the state government, despite the dispute of the properties in court, on the

Cutlass is my

By Dada Aladelokun, Assitant Editor

adding: "Those who know me would confirm the fact that basically, I'm an agriculturist - if you like, call me a farmer. Even when I was a council chairman a long time ago, I would go to my farm to cultivate yam, pepper, plantains and garden eggs among others, whenever the opportunity was there for me."

Asked if he was doing it on subsistence or commercial basis, the lawmaker said: "It is purely

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

57

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

Woman police chief busts robbery operation

F

• Okafor

ties remain effective way of addressing the problem of drug trafficking in the country. If a 53year-old man knows that if caught with drugs, he will spend the next 15 years in jail, there will be some re•The bag containing the substance straints."

Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge premise that "our court dispute or political differences cannot stand in the way of people's development".

"Although there was no federal funding support, this bridge is clear evidence of what federal might can achieve, depending on whether the person who exercises the authority chooses to be a politician or a statesman".

"That was President Yar' Adua as a statesman and not as a politician", he said.

Fashola commended Yayale Ahmed for implementing the late president's decision on the properties removed and those who voluntarily removed their properties to pave the way for the construction of the bridge.

He also praised citizens who voluntarily relocated their fences and offered parts of their premises as work-yards for the project.

On the importance of the new bridge, Fashola said it would save more travel time for motorists going into Lekki, providing them with a choice to do so successfully without having to go through Ozumba Mbadiwe in the Victoria Island area.

He said government would fa-

pen, says Rep on subsistence basis; it is for my consumption. It is a passion.

Cutlass is my pen; the soil, my paper. But if I have the opportunity of getting cultivable land here around Abuja, I can go commercial. Everybody eats food."

He, therefore, expressed his anger over what he described as condemnable lip-service, which, he said, past administrations in the country had been paying to the fight against hunger in the country.

"It is sad and shameful that to-

cilitate the completion of 3rd Roundabout through Admiralty Way to provide a choice and access to commuters from Ajah who are heading for the Mainland.

"In this way, we expect to finally reduce the bottlenecks in Victoria Island, Ozumba Mbadiwe and its immediate environs that is caused by a lack of choice", he said.

On the toll rate, Fashola said saloon cars would pay N250, while mini-vans, Sub-Urban vehicles (SUVs) and light pick-up trucks would pay N300.

Non-commercial buses with a maximum seating capacity of 26 persons will pay N400, while motorcycles with 200cc capacity and above will pay N100 per trip on the bridge.

The governor also emphasised that commercial vehicles, commercial motorcycles, popularly called 'Okada', tricycles, also known as 'Keke Marwa', heavyduty trucks, articulated trucks, lorries and such other vehicles are restricted from the bridge.

The 1.358km bridge, built by Julius Berger, the governor said, would be opened to motorists from June 1. day, as we claim to celebrate democracy, millions of Nigerians still sleep and wake up in hunger. It is bad that despite the obvious fact that we have the land and the financial resources to prosecute hunger, we still cannot feed our families.

"It is time we made agricultural development at all levels, our collective focus of governance.

We need food in our bellies, so we can be in the best state of mind to put our best into developing our fatherland. This is w h a t the President Goodluck Jonathan-led government must see as its overriding priority project," Arowosoge said.

OR over two hours, they unleashed terror on their unwilling hosts. Residents scurried for dear lives. It was a storm that kept the hearts of occupants of about seven homes in their mouths.

Their helpless victims, willy-nilly, surrendered valuables including their hard-earned money, handsets, ear-ring and bangles, to them at gun point. But the night marauders' joy did not last, thanks to the gallantry of a woman police officer.

Between 2 am and 4 am yesterday, the "heavily armed" members of the seven-man robbery gang were on top of their game, terrorising residents of Abiok Street and another in Ijaiye-Ojokoro, a Lagos suburb.

By an eyewitness account, the dare-devil men stormed Abiok at about 2am and started breaking into homes, dispossessing residents of their hard-earned money, handsets, ear-rings and bangles among other personal effects. The robbers reportedly threatened to rape daughters of victims who could not produce enough money on demand.

The valiant among residents who were helplessly awaiting their turns with the unwanted visitors summoned the courage to send distress calls to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ijaiye Ojokoro Police Station, Superintendent of Police (SP) Mary Ubanga.

The embattled residents were lucky; the police chief was on seat when the distress calls reached her station.

She quickly mobilised the station's Anti-Robbery Squad and headed for the scene. When the robbers noticed the presence of her team, they reportedly opened fire, but the DPO was not deterred.

"This must be fire-for-fire," she presumably ordered her men, and so, the "war" began. The option fire paid off as three of the robbers bowed to the superior fire power of her men. They died on the spot.

However, three of the robbery suspects managed to escape, but the

T

CITYBEATS

By Ebele BONIFACE

seventh (name withheld) was not as lucky. Unknowingly, he ran towards their enemies - the policemen - where they took cover. Police sources said he surrendered instantly as he was given the options of laying down his arm or be silenced with AK47 rifles.

When the suspect surrendered, according to the source, he was handcuffed while the bodies of his dead cohorts were bundled into the police vehicle and driven to the police station where they were displayed. The captured one was also paraded as he covered his face in • The arrested suspect ... yesterday shame.

Five locally-made guns, four machetes, charms, and over 70 handsets, were recovered.

The DPO later handed the captured suspect to the Special AntiRobbery Squad (SARS) team led by Superintendent Okeke, with the recovered loot. Some of the victims recounted their ordeal to Okeke.

The arrested suspects and the recovered items were handed over to the officer-in-charge of the SARS, over. It is a miracle I'm alive," he Police Superintendent Abba Kyari, said. for investigations.

Another victim, who pointed at Commissioner of Police, Umar the one of the dead robbers, said he Manko had warned would-be rob- was fond of raping victims' daughbery suspects to stay away from La- ters. He praised the police for killgos as his command had made La- ing him. He said the robbers who gos a no-go area for violent crimes. moved from one house to the othOne of the victims, who pleaded er, raided about seven houses. anonymity for fear of reprisals, said He called on the commissioner to one of the robbery suspects asked be posting DPOs on merit so that him to lay face-down at gun point the same feat performed in his doand marched on his head. "I had main would be upheld whenever said my last prayers many times robbers strike.

‘I had said my last prayers many times over. It is a miracle I'm alive’

'Make your children future leaders'

HE Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, Obafemi Durosimi, has urged parents and guardians not to use their children as commercial tools, but guide them in their upbringing to enable them become good leaders in future.

Speaking at the Children's Day anniversary held at the council's secretariat, he said children are gifts from God and should be treated in that manner.

He said: "Parents must be an example of goodwill and courage to these children. Let us create more time for them. Let us be closer to them and give them the guide they require to make us proud."

Durosimi thanked the teachers for their efforts at ensuring that the pupils in the council's schools acquire the

desired knowledge to prepare them for future challenges.

"I urge you to continue to put in your best for these children. On our own part, we will also play our role to support and encourage you towards enhancing your job as teachers and role models."

The chairman, who was praised for providing buses and other school materials to the pupils, urged them to make proper use of the items.

"Children from rural and semi-rural settings like ours, need more government attention in this era of financial difficulties," he said, adding: "I encourage you to be serious-minded, and be determined to make a success of your destiny. You can become great in life once you commit yourself to

• Akuyoma

FAMOUS educationist, orator, politician and community leader in Delta State, Mr. Richmond Ajiemigbetse Akuyoma aka Olosho'ukobaa, has passed on.

He died on March 17; he was 79.

He hailed from the Akuyoma family in the EnerokoIyetsere lineage of Obitugbo/Abiugborodo/Koko in Warri North Local Government Area and Gegenu/Egbejule of Ogidigbi / Utonlila, Warri South West Local Government Area of the state.

A statement by the family described him as a pillar of unity for his community, a man of integrity and forthrightness, adding that he is survived

By Musa Odoshimokhe

• Durosimi

God and study hard."

Durosimi assured that the council would continue to give adequate attention to education because the success of any society depended on the kind of people they have.

Community leader goes home

A

by 16 children, 47 grand-children, wives, brother and step-children.

According to the burial arrangements announced by the family, an oratory service will be held in his honour on Friday at the Sapele Athletics Club between 12pm and 5.30pm, after the departure of his remains from Okpara Clinic, Sapele, to Ajaugbodudu, Cowan Estate, Koko Road in Warri North Local Government Area at 9am for a lying-in-state at his Ajagbadudu home at 11 am. His remains will be interred in Obitugbo Village, Koko Road, Warri. A reception will be held at Crowder Primary School, Sapele.

58

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NEWS

•Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha (middle) with Igbo traditional rulers in diaspora after the Movement for the Survival of Igbo People (MOSIP)’s Igbo Day of Tribute at the Government House, Owerri.

Okorocha: Amaechi won NGF election

I

MO State Governor Rochas Okorocha has said Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi won the chairmanship election of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF).

He said this is contrary to the impression created by some governors opposed to Amaechi’s re-election.

Okorocha, who spoke while giving an account of the twoyear administration, posited that forces opposing Amaechi’s reelection should apply other strategies rather than peddling falsehood portraying that there was no election.

His words: “I can’t imagine that anybody will come and say that we did not conduct an election. There was a free and fair election and the winner of that election was Amaechi.”

The governor condemned the alleged plot by the Presidency against Amaechi, warning that such development portends danger for the nation’s democracy.

Okorocha described the NGF as a body, which should not be driven by party sentiments but a rallying point that should promote good governance towards building a better nation.

Ekwunife joins governorship race

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From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

N All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship aspirant, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, yesterday expressed optimism that she will be the first elected woman governor in Anambra State.

Addressing supporters from the 21 local government areas and wards at her campaign office yesterday, Mrs. Ekwunife said she was not discouraged by her gender.

She added that she joined the race to liberate the state and consolidate on what Governor Peter Obi has done.

“I am in this race because I have full confidence and competence that I will win. I am not bothered or intimidated by my gender.

“I am in this race because I believe I have got the necessary experience as a lawmaker. I think I have gathered enough experience to excel as governor.

“There is no difference between male and female governors. If elected, I promise to consolidate on the existing development initiated by our governor. I want to assure you that with your support, I shall be the first elected woman governor of Anambra State.”

She urged her supporters to disregard the rumour that she is a running mate.

Pini Jason’s burial Saturday

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By Precious Igbonwelundu

HE remains of renowned journalist, Pini Jason Onyegbadue, who died on May 4, will be interred in his home town, Obizi, Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, on Saturday.

The late Onyegbadue’s son, Amamdi, said there will be a commendation service at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Obizi, by 11am, after which the body will be laid to rest at the family compound.

Funeral rites for the late columnist started May 21 at All Saints Anglican Church, Montgomery Road, Yaba, Lagos, and a Day of Tributes was held on May 27, at Reiz Continental Hotel, Abuja.

The late commentator and Special Adviser to former Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim died at 65.

He is survived by his wife, Oby and three children, Amamdi, Kelechi and Ozodi.

Ubah gets royal blessings

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From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

N All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship aspirant in Anambra State, Ifeanyi Ubah, has pledged to conduct local government elections within 100 days, if voted into power.

He spoke yesterday in Nnewi, describing local governments as the would-be bedrock of his administration.

The Chief Executive Officer of Capital Oil described what he called insecurity in Anambra State as unacceptable.

Ubah pledged that his government would install a network that would make crime in the state almost impossible.

The Nnewi Royal Cabinet yesterday endorsed Ubah as its sole candidate.

The endorsement was contained in a three-paragraph communiqué by Dan Ulasi and Chukwuemeka Nzewi- Chairman and Secretary.

It reads: “At our regular monthly meeting of May 26. The issue of your aspiration to the governorship seat of Anambra State was thoroughly deliberated upon. Considering that you had severally informed us accordingly of your interest. We wish to endorse you. You have received our blessings.”

Anambra , Kogi communities in T peace deal

HE two warring communities of EziaguluOtu Aguleri in Anambra East Local Government of Anambra State and Echeno/Odeke in Ibaji Local Government of Kogi State yesterday reached a peace deal to resolve their boundary issues.

The communities agreed to sheath their swords and embrace dialogue at a peace deal in Abuja.

A communiqué at the meeting said the two communities agreed to a ceasefire, pending the final resolution of the issues.

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

The chairman of Anambra East Local Government, Chinedu Obidigwe and his Ibaji counterpart, David Ogu, led stakeholders, including traditional rulers, to the meeting conveyed by Emmanuel Akubueze and leaders from the Igala speaking communities.

The communiqué reads: “Following the intervention of

Emmanuel Akubueze, in conjunction with Orient Petroleum Company, in the crisis between Echeno/Odeke and Aguleri communities, the following resolutions were made.

“That there should be total and immediate ceasefire between the warring communities and withdrawal of the fighting troops and their weapons from the bush.

“That the leaders of each of

the communities should sensitise their people on the resolution reached at the Abuja meeting on or before the end of the month and that there should be meetings of each side at their local governments to educate their people.”

Obidigwe said the success recorded at the meeting was made possible by the peaceful disposition of Governor Peter Obi, whom he said had opted for peace.

He thanked Ogu for making his people available during the meeting.

Okonjo-Iweala’s mum’s ‘abductors’ killed

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OMMISSIONER of Police in Delta State Ikechukwu Aduba has said the fleeing suspects responsible for the kidnap of Prof Kanene Okonjo, the mother of the Minister of Finance, Prof Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, were arrested by his men in Anambra State while allegedly sourcing for weapons for another kidnap.

He identified the suspects as Chekwube Okeke, alias Chiboy and Ifeanyi Eze, alias Biggy.

Aduba said his men, acting on a tip-off, stormed Uga Junction in Onitsha, waiting for their would-be arms supplier, adding that Eze was shot in the leg in a bid to escape.

He said his arrest led to the arrest of two others in Aguata Local Government.

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

The police chief said Okeke was killed as he tried to escape while being conveyed to Asaba on the River Niger Bridge.

He said 120 kidnap victims had been rescued and over 128 kidnap/robbery suspects killed in the last five months.

Aduba said 653 suspected robbers and kidnap suspects were arrested within the period.

He said N2, 940,570 was recovered from gangs.

Aduba noted that 86 convictions of kidnappers were secured.

He said 276 cases of kidnappings were charged to court; 300 suspects are awaiting trial.

The police boss said 45 mur-

der suspects were arrested, adding that 78 arms were recovered.

According to him, 608 ammunition were recovered from criminal gangs in five months.

Aduba said suspected cultists stormed the Redeemed Christian Church, Warri, in an attempt to dispossess worshippers of their valuables.

He said angry worshippers chased one of the suspected cultists and set him ablaze.

The remains, the police chief said, have been deposited at the Warri Central Hospital.

Aduba said three robbery suspects were shot dead during a botched car snatching attempt.

He said one of the suspects escape with gunshot wounds.

The gang members were

identified as Nkechi Lucky, Kobo and Omo Jay. He said the four-man gang allegedly robbed Mrs. Victory Enyioke, wife of the pastor of First Baptist Church, Abraka.

He said the victim was dispossessed of her Kia Soul van with registration number AW 544 WWR. He said the gang had allegedly robbed another victim of a Murano Sports Utility Vehicle.

Aduba said luck ran out on the gang, when his men engaged the robbers in a shoot out. Three suspects were killed.

He said search for the fleeing suspect has intensified.

Items recovered from the suspects include an AK 47 rifle with number 53311, two magazines and three live bullets.

Special Forces arrest 50 terrorists with trained dogs

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HE Defence Headquarters yesterday said the counter terrorism Special Forces have used 50 Military Police dogs to arrest fleeing terror suspects.

A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig-Gen Chris Olukolade said 15 of the arrested terrorists were found with fire arms.

The dogs are being deployed in the cordon-andsearch phase of the operations.

“Various attempts being made by the insurgents to escape through towns and cities in the Northeast as troops dislodge them from their forest bases have been foiled by the dogs.

“The efforts of the specially trained dogs have so far led to the arrest of over 50 terrorists who were trying to infiltrate Maiduguri.

More than 15 of them were arrested with arms concealed in their bodies or property.

“Cordon and search has

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

been intensified as the forests in the Northeast are being combed for terrorists.

“At Deseri forest, three Hilux vehicles mounted with anti-aircraft guns were destroyed, one Volkswagen Golf car and four motorcycles were also recovered,” the statement added.

The Navy has warned residents of Abuja and environs to handover any strange and suspicious persons in their communities to security agencies.

Chief of Naval Staff ViceAdmiral Joseph Ezeoba gave the directive yesterday at the beginning of the Navy’s medical rhapsody at Pyankasa, on the outskirts of the Federal Capital Territory.

The Naval Chief stressed the need for the residents to be more security conscious during this period.

Ezeoba, who was represented by the Director of

Medical Services, Rear Admiral Samuel Ekpelle, said the terrorists may decide to hibernate in such outskirts to escape the ongoing military onslaught and strategies for attack.

He urged residents to alert security agencies of any unusual happening in their environments.

The medical rhapsody was

part of activities marking the 57th anniversary of the Navy.

The ceremony was held in all naval units in all the states.

Highlight of the ceremony was the free health screening and treatment of various health issues for residents.

They were also presented with free treated mosquito nets as part of the anti-malaria campaign.

‘Stop activities of vigilance groups’

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From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

HE Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) has raised the alarm on the proliferation of vigilance groups in Anambra State.

The group urged the government to abolish all “torture chambers” of vigilance groups.

In a statement in Awka by its chairman, Alloy Attah and secretary, Justus Ijeoma, the CLO said government should probe the activities of all local security groups, publish an authentic list of accredited vigilance groups and disband all other quasi groups.

The group said there should be a functional internal control mechanism to put all the abuses in check.

According to CLO, such arrangement should include an open and dedicated phone line where people could report cases of abuse by the operatives.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

59

NEWS

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Belgore seeks probe into police shooting of Kwara Poly student

CHIEFTAIN of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Kwara State, Mr Mohammed Dele Belgore (SAN), has urged the state government and the police to investigate the shooting of a student of the state polytechnic.

The 2011 governorship candidate of ACN said this would ensure that such an ugly incident does not repeat itself.

In a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, by his media aide, Mr Rafiu Ajakaye, the senior lawyer said: “We are saddened

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

by the latest round of disruption of public peace arising from the alleged shooting of a student by a policeman attached to a bullion van. We wish the concerned student, who remains unnamed, a speedy recovery from his alleged gunshot injury.

“We urge caution on the side of security agencies, especially the police, as well as the Kwara State Polytechnic students, who are genuinely irked by the alleged shooting of their

colleague.

“We recall that a similar incident of avoidable shooting had led to the killing, also in Ilorin, of Muyideen Mustapha Opobiyi, who was involved in the fuel subsidy protest of January, last year. Maybe this latest shooting would have been averted had a thorough investigation been carried out into that sad incident of 2012.

“While we acknowledge that a greater number of our policemen are law-abiding and dutiful, we cannot shut our eyes to the excesses of some

bad eggs in the Force. We, therefore, urge the security agencies to always exercise restraint and professionalism, even in the face of provocations from the populace.

“It is interesting to note that a police officer who murdered another fuel subsidy protester, Ademola Aderinto, in Lagos, has now been dismissed from the force because of the efforts of the Lagos State Government which not only insisted on the police producing the culprit but also instituted criminal prosecution against the po-

Campaigns open in Kwara From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

A

•Belgore

liceman.

“Should it be found after due investigation that the police have acted unlawfully, the Kwara State Government should not sit on the sidelines but act in similar vein.”

Soldiers arrest four foreigners From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

A

DETACHMENT of soldiers yesterday arrested four foreigners, who were said to be from the Middle East, with a cache of arms and ammunition at a warehouse in Bompai, Kano. The owner of the warehouse, who was identified as a Lebanese, was reportedly arrested.

When our correspondent visited the house on Gaya Road, Bompai, military personnel were seen guarding the place.

The spokesman of the military Joint Task Force (JTF) Capt.

Ikedichi Iweha said the Third Brigade of the Army will today address reporters on the matter. He declined further comments on the incident.

Capt Iweha said: “You will get the details tomorrow (Thursday). Because of the Democracy Day celebration, we will talk to you after the break.”

NGO decries rich Nigerians’ attitude to poverty

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NON-govermental organisation (NGO), Asabe Shehu Yar’Adua Foundation, has decried what it called the uncaring attitude of many public officers, wellmeaning individuals and corporate bodies to the ravaging poverty in Nigeria.

A statement by its founder, Amb. Asabe Shehu Yar’Adua, on the commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day, said: “The current trend portends danger to nation-building, unless we take pragmatic steps to sincerely tackle the rising poverty among such people. This is because of their strategic role in economic growth and national development.

“Children are the future of tomorrow. We can only protect and guarantee their future, if we do not neglect their mothers. A nation that encourages poverty among such categories of its citizens cannot be said to safeguard its future leaders.”

•Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu (left) showing the Emir of Minna, Dr Umar Faruk Bahago, the master plan of the Grand Towers and Shopping Mall after the ground-breaking ceremony at Minna City Centre.

Kwara NURTW urges govt to unban Offa, Erin-Ile branches

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EMBERS of the Kwara State branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) have urged the government to lift the ban it recently placed on its branches in Offa and Erin-Ile. The government, last week, announced the proscription of the union in the two communities, alleging their complicity in the January communal clashes that engulfed both towns in Offa and Oyun local government areas.

In a communiqué at the end of its State Executive Council (SEC) meeting, the union “warns all union members in Offa and Erin-Ile to avoid and dissociate themselves from any activ-

T

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

ity that can tarnish the image of the union and always respect the law of the land”.

The communiqué, by the Chairman and Secretary, Alhaji Issa Aliyu Ore and Comrade Abubakar Ari Kadai, reads: “The meeting in session commends Governor AbdulFatah Ahmed for his ebullient administrative principles and procedure; the meeting in session expressed its profound gratitude to the governor for giving the state administrative council members of the union an audience in his office on April 16…”

‘Give special funds to varsities of technology’

HE Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Prof Musibau Akanji, has urged the National Assembly to grant special funds to Federal Government-owned universities of technology to enable the country realise its quest for technological advancement.

The vice chancellor spoke in his office in Minna, the Niger State capital, when he hosted members of Senate Committee on Education, led by its Chairman, Uche Chukwumerije.

The committee members

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

were at the institution on an oversight assignment.

Prof Akanji noted that without adequate funding of the universities, the country would not make the desired technological breakthrough.

The vice chancellor spoke through the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof Suleiman Sadiku.

Prof Akanji said universities of technology should be able to access funds for research and teaching from the Federal Min-

istry of Science and Technology, besides the regular funds they get from the Ministry of Education.

Citing FUT Minna as an example, the vice chancellor said the institution brazed the trail in information and communication technology (ICT).

He said: “With our commitment to ICT development, we should be able to assess funds from the Ministry of Communications. We have a department of cyber security, which has been of global concern. If we can draw from these special

funds, we will be able to accelerate and fast track our quest for technological breakthrough.” He noted that the six federal universities of technology spread across the country belong to the third generation of Nigerian universities.

The academic regretted that instead of according priority to them, the first two generations of universities are considered.

He appeal for legislation that would make it possible to draw from special funds for science and technology-based institutions.

Fed Govt’s N500m relief fund still intact, says Suswam B

•Suswam

ENUE State Governor Gabriel Suswam yesterday said his administration has not shared among the local governments the N500 million the Federal Government donated to last year’s flood victims.

The governor spoke at the IBB Square, Makurdi, the state capital, during this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

He explained that the fund would be shared among the local governments on the ba-

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

sis of the degree of devastation they suffered during the flooding.

According to him, the fund will be spent on the execution of projects, including schools and clinics.

Suswam said the most affected council will get N101

million.

The governor also explained that his administration did not share the fund among the victims because such method would not achieve the desired impact.

He said the government resolved to build structures with the fund so that the victims can benefit more from the projects instead of taking some

cash they would have spent since.

Suswam said the government has created a Ministry of Environment and Urban Development to handle the challenges in the sector.

The governor urged the residents to avoid blocking drainage with wastes.

Suswam said he was taken to court to produce the money, adding that the money will be spent on the the flood victims and not the entire state.

HEAD of this year’s local government election, the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) has notified political parties and other stakeholders on the beginning of electioneering activities.

The commission has not fixed a date for the poll.

Governor AbdulFatah Ahmed, penultimate week, inaugurated the chairman and some of the agency’s commissioners. He urged them to conduct free, fair and transparent election in the 16 local governments.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, KWAISEC Chairman, Dr Uthman A. Ajidagba, noted that though no date had been fixed for the poll, political parties, stakeholders and the public were being notified of the beginning of the electioneering activities.

He said: “By the power conferred on Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission in Third Schedule, Part 2 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended in 2011, particularly Paragraph 4 of the schedule, Section 20 (1) of Kwara State Local Government Electoral Law, Cap. 32, Law of Kwara State 2006, as amended, political parties, relevant stakeholders and the public are hereby notified of the commencement of 2013 local government electioneering activities.”

Wada promises to complete homes for flood victims soon From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

K

OGI State Governor Idris has said the 272 housing units the state is building for last year’s flood victims will be ready in four months.

The governor spoke in Lokoja during the foundation-laying ceremony of the housing units.

He said a similar project will be extended to each of the other eight local governments that were affected by the floods.

Wada said the houses would enable the people to move away from floodprone areas.

He urged the contractors to do quality job, adding that any contractor found wanting would be blacklisted.

Wada restated his administration’s commitment to the development of all sectors through the provision of basic infrastructure and human capital development.

The governor expressed his resolve to complete abandoned projects he inherited from his predecessor. These, he said, include the stadium complex, the new Confluence Beach Hotel and the secretariat extension project, all in Lokoja, the state capital.

The Commissioner for Land, Housing and Urban Development Mr Stephen Mayaki said 105 contractors were mobilised for the housing project, which is expected to be completed within four months.

THE NATION THURSDAY MAY 30, 2013

60

NEWS DEMOCRACY DAY

Lagos Speaker: June 12 is true Democracy Day

By Oziegbe Okoeki

SPEAKER of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has said June 12 is the true Democracy Day. He called for self examination by all and sundry as the country celebrates the 14th Democracy Day. Ikuforiji said the nation is not doing its best, adding: “We need to look inward and think of how to redo things. We know that insecurity is a great challenge at this time.

“We know that security of lives and property is no more taken for granted. We have misplaced our priority.

The fact that the first dispensation came into being on May 29 does that make it the Democracy Day. It’s an artificial creation of someone.”

Stressing that June 12 is truly the Democracy Day, the Speaker noted: “June 12 was the day Nigerians came together and showed that they craved democracy.

They showed that they could be united for a purpose and they demonstrated that the unity of all groups and Nigerians was sacrosanct. So I think that day is more of democracy day than May 29.

“We haven’t done badly though and it hasn’t been that bad.”

Emergency rule to end soon, says Mark

S

ENATE President David Mark yesterday said the state of emergency declared in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states would soon be over.

He spoke at a service at St. Mulumba Catholic Chaplaincy, Apo, Abuja, to commemorate Democracy Day. Mark said the state of emergency was a last resort to tame the lingering insecurity and restore normalcy.

Said he: “I know it is yielding positive results. Very soon, it will be over as our military formations are living up to the task.”

Senator Mark admitted that there are challenges militating against the nation, but said they are surmountable.

From Onyedi Ojiabor,

Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

He added: “All we need is a collective resolve to confront our challenges and find a solution to them.”

The Senate President in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Paul Mumeh, urged Nigerians to be apostles of peace to facilitate the delivery of the dividends of democracy.

He said the nation is passing through difficulties, especially in the areas of security and socio-economic challenges, adding: “We can resolve to say enough is enough. Our efforts towards development will come to nought if the crisis contin-

ues.”

Mark thanked Nigerians for their perseverance and cooperation in the propagation and sustenance of democracy.

According to him, it is a process everyone should uphold to benefit from its dividends.

His words: “It was by choice and design that the nation chose democracy as the best form of government. Democracy promotes rule of law, upholds human rights, freedom of speech and participation.

“Whatever faith or religion, I urge Nigerians to pray for peace, unity and progress of the nation.”

The Senate President as-

sured of a responsive legislation that would cater for the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.

“We will identify and prioritise key areas where legislations will be required for the transformation of the economy and polity. We will be patriotic, honest, fair and just in the discharge of our duties and be guided by the constitution and fear of God,” he stressed.

Rev. Father Innocent Jooji enjoined religious leaders to avoid provocative statements that might cause crisis.

He said Nigeria remains the only country for Nigerians.

The cleric urged the peo-

ple to remain steadfast in prayer so that the leaders would have the political will to deliver the dividends of democracy.

He said political office holders should make the citizenry the focal point of their policies and programmes.

Sultan: good leadership sustains democracy From Adamu Suleiman,

T

Akpabio pays tributes to martyrs GOVERNOR Godswill Akpabio yesterday paid tributes to Nigerians, who were martyred in the course of enthroning democracy.

Akpabio, who was addressing Akwa Ibom people at the Ibom Hall grounds, Uyo, on Democracy Day, said the Nigerians included the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, the late Alfred Rewane, journalists, among others.

He said: “Without these Nigerians, who lost their lives during the struggle for democracy, the country would not have enjoyed this system of government.

“It is a common part of the world’s wisdom that life does not give you what you deserve, but what you demand. In the darkest days of dictatorship, we, a saddened people, placed a demand on life for democracy and dared to hope that this country of ours can ring again with the harmonies of liberty, instead of the haunting drone of martial music and military boots.

“This invigorating dawn of unbroken democracy, whose 14th anniversary we celebrate today, therefore, bears eloquent testimony that truth is resilient, that hope never fails and that mind is stronger than matter. We have cause to celebrate this freedom and democracy because we have taken our destinies in our hands and foisted upon ourselves the government of the people, for the people and by the people.

•Mark

•From left: Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State, his wife, Mercy, Deputy Governor, Sir Emeka Ananaba and wife, Nene, at the Democracy Day celebration in Umuahia...yesterday.

I

How APC ‘ll fix Nigeria, by Okorocha

MO State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, has assured Nigerians that the newlyformed All Progressives Congress (APC) would fix and return the country to the path of progress.

Governor Okorocha, who spoke on the occasion of the Democracy Day, took the opportunity of rendering the account of his two years stewardship to Imolites to speak on his political future and recent political development in the country. He said APC would among others balance the political equation and offer credible alternative as far as leadership was concerned in Nigeria.

Said he: “Let me throw more light on why I decided to join and promote APC. It is a fact that our dear country under the rulership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for 14 years has not fared well. The formation of APC is not only timely, but also an intervention that will balance the political equation in Nigeria.

“The ruling PDP has no doubt taken us for granted for the 14 years it has governed Nigeria and this largely informed why the progressives are presenting APC to Nigerians as an alternative platform that will enthrone good governance.

By the time APC is finally elected to lead this great

‘Let me throw more light on why I decided to join and promote APC. It is a fact that our dear country under the rulership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for 14 years has not fared well’ country, Nigeria will be fixed and restored to the path of growth, job creation, industralisation and good governance.”

Governor Okorocha further

took a swipe at the PDP for relegating the people of Southeast to the background in the power equation of the country.

He said: “It is regrettable that PDP has relegated all of us in the Southeast to the background. It is true that Igbo man is not occupying any of the five principal positions in the country, which include the President, VicePresident, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives and National Chairman of the PDP.” The Imo State Governor urged Ndigbo to embrace APC, which he said is one of the surest steps to regain their political relevance in Nigeria.

Tambuwal urges leaders to build institutions for democracy From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

•Tambuwal

S

PEAKER of the House of Representatives Aminu Waziri Tambuwal yesterday urged

the people in authority to build institutions of governance to allow democracy thrive in the country for the benefit of the coming generation.

Tambuwal in a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam, to commemorate Democracy Day, enjoined Nigerians to nurture and protect the country’s democracy

by participating in governance at the local, state and federal levels.

He said one of the cardinal principles of democracy is openness and transparency.

“Therefore, those in authority must be open and transparent in the conduct of their activities at all times, Tambuwal added.”

He said although the country is having challenges in its march towards nationhood, the citizens should roll out the drums and cel-

ebrate the 14 years of democracy.

The House of Representatives Speaker said the devastating effect of military rule and how past dictatorships had stunted the growth of the country and hampered the freedom of choice of Nigerians should not be forgotten in a hurry.

He congratulated Nigerians, adding that the House of Representatives is determined to play its role for the benefit of the citizens.

Sokoto

HE Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has identified good leadership as a key to winning the confidence of the people for the sustenance of democracy.

He described Governor Aliyu Wamakko as a tested figure, who has demonstrated the foresight of a good leader.

“You are doing well. Keep it up,” Abubakar told Wamakko.

He spoke at Kalambaina in Wamakko Local Government when he laid the foundation for the building of 500 housing units by the state government.

The event was part of the activities to mark the Democracy Day. Sultan Abubakar told the governor to consolidate his achievements and urged the indigenes and residents to support him to sustain his policies and programmes.

Governor Wamakko reiterated his administration’s commitment to improve the welfare of the people.

He said his government would meet the aspirations of the electorate.

Yobe seeks prayers From Duku Joel, Damaturu

Y

OBE State Governor Ibrahim Gaidam has urged politicians and the people of the state to embark on prayers rather than fanfare to mark the Democracy Day. Our correspondent observed that the Democracy Day celebration was low-key in the state.

The Special Adviser on Media and Press Affairs to the Governor, Mr. Abdullai Bego, said: “His Excellency has asked everyone to pray for the sustenance of peace in our state.

“He urges Christians and Muslims to pray in churches and mosques so that there will continue to be peace in the state. As you are aware, for about nine months, we have not experienced violence in this state.”

According to him, religious leaders have been enjoined to carry out the directive in churches and mosques.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

61

FOREIGN NEWS

Repositioning NEPAD to boost living standard in Nigeria Despite being among the five countries that designed and develop the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) as a strategic framework for the continent, Nigeria is presently lagging behind many African countries.

AUGUSTINE EHIKIOYA takes a look at the problems facing the organization in Nigeria and the way forward.

W

ITH over ten years of domestication of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) process in Nigeria, the body seems to be fast losing its strength to assist in laying solid foundation for improving living standard in Nigeria.

NEPAD in Nigeria like in other African countries was also created to help stop Africa marginalization in the global economy.

Its birth represented a paradigm shift from concerns of political independence to a need for the establishment of a socio-economic order that is driven by the resources and resourcefulness of the African people.

NEPAD became the strategic policy framework of the African Union (AU) in 2001 at the 37th Assembly of the then Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in Lusaka, Zambia to boost social, economic and political development of the continent.

Its creation was in response to Africa’s period of general decline in the 1980s and 1990s, which were decades characterized by civil strife, unbridled military dictatorship, single party autocracy, political chaos and instability coupled with dysfunctional economies and aggravated social crisis.

The framework became the “engagement tool” between Africa and her partners in addressing the challenges of poverty and underdevelopment of the continent; particularly the engagement between Africa and the international community, especially the G8, inter-

national financial institutions, the UN System, the European Union and donor agencies.

Debt relief negotiation, at the continental level, was carried out under the platform of NEPAD; while concerns for good governance are under the auspices of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM).

To achieve the major objective of NEPAD, some of the core principles and values enunciated included African ownership and leadership of the development agenda, African unity through economic integration, Good governance as a sine qua non for peace, security and sustainable development, Capacity building for African competitiveness and a shared partnership based on mutual trust, commitment and responsibility in outcomes.

In Nigeria, under the leadership of former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Late Umaru Yar’Adua and the incumbent, President Goodluck Jonathan, partnership became the pivot on which NEPAD rested.

At the country level, the NEPAD agenda was translated into action through the implementation of NEPAD sectoral priorities including agriculture and food security, infrastructure, human resource development, science and technology, the environment and crosscutting issues of capacity development and gender.

In the area of Agriculture, NEPAD Nigeria was said to have played a leading role towards food security in the country. Rice farmers from

both Enugu and Ebonyi States were brought together and trained on rice production, processing and marketing in 2010.

Besides helping to diversify Nigerian economy, job creation, encouragement of private investment and poverty alleviation, the objective of the training was also to educate the rice farmers on international best practices that would assist them achieve higher yield.

Recognizing the importance of education to national development, NEPAD Nigeria was said to have carried out series of campaigns to improve schools’ enrolment in Nigeria.

A similar campaign on the best practice and practical measures for promoting quality Girl-Child Education in the Northern states of Nigeria was taken to Nasarawa state in 2009.

The campaign was said to have brought together over two hundred participants from Northern States of Nigeria, including UNICEF, stakeholders in education, line ministries and agencies.

They were aimed at changing the mindsets and attitude of parents and communities towards education in general and training of the girl-child.

It was a way of drumming up support for all intervention strategies aimed at eradicating illiteracy and poverty and achieving sustainable development.

In Nigeria, NEPAD has also developed a network of partnerships on domestication of NEPAD framework in Nigeria with State Governments, the Federal Capital Territory

(FCT), Civil Societies, Non Governmental Organisations, Faith-Based Organisations, Community-Based Organisations, etc.

Being an advocate of good governance, NEPAD Nigeria has been sending its staff to observe political elections and make useful reports to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC.) The exercise was said to have boosted the image of NEPAD as an institution for driving good governance in Nigeria.

While it is believed in some quarters that NEPAD is a white elephant project because it does not generate revenue, some stakeholders said that it is a programme aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency as it sensitises leaders on challenges and the need to eradicate poverty and accelerate development.

From a general perspective, Africa’s development landscape has been changing positively with NEPAD being the driver of transformation under the auspices of the AU. Unlike other countries, the story for NEPAD Nigeria has not been so smooth.

Even as it was one of the five initiating countries of NEPAD alongside Algeria, Egypt, Senegal and South Africa, many African countries have overtaken Nigeria in their efforts to achieve the objectives of the body.

While NEPAD Nigeria presently does not have existing law backing it and is having funding problems, countries like South Africa, Kenya and Ghana have attained the Commission status.

Uganda also has NEPAD Commission as far back as 2004 while Senegal, Lesotho and Cameroun have gone a step ahead to create ministries with direct responsibility for Good Governance.

At present, NEPAD Nigeria does not have the power to enforce best practices in governance and only rely on moral persuasion.

Raising alarm over funding crisis in NEPAD Nigeria, the Presidential Adviser to the President on NEPAD, Ambassador Tunji Olagunju, during a recent meeting of the National Council of the APRM in Abuja , said its funding have continued to decline to the detriment of its functions.

He said: “Our experience to date reveals that the NEPAD Agency has little or no control over the allotted task given to it. Funds inflow to the organization has systematically been going down over the years, partly due to lack of assured funding and in part due to our Federal System of Government, a system where politics inform decisions at different levels and at multiple sites and publics.”

“We all know that practicing best practices in governance is a collaborative assignment among tiers of Government and between the public and private sectors of our society; including shared assumptions and predispositions about such practices in the conduct of affairs.” He added The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and APRM National Focal Point, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, at the meeting, also

agreed that new challenges are facing the organization.

He, however, noted that the past activities of the mechanism have helped to boost electoral reforms and constitutional amendment in Nigeria.

To put NEPAD Nigeria on a strong footing, many stakeholders believe that transforming it to a Commission will confer on it the legal status required to partner with the public, private sectors and even international partners and donor agencies towards attaining its objectives.

When it becomes a Commission, it will also have the advantage of employing/training its staff directly, which will check the frequent transfer and exodus of trained/skilled officers from the organisation.

It will have access to increased funding for its functions and programmes, effectively monitor and evaluate the implementation of NEPAD’s programmes in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) towards compliance with NEPAD goals, will have capacity to promote bilateral and multilateral cooperation at regional and continental levels, and also propel development at Federal, State and local levels to meet vision 20:2020.

While the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was applauded when the Bill for an Act to provide for the establishment of NEPAD Commission scaled second reading in the chamber, many Nigerians are looking forward to its final passage by the National Assembly towards assisting Nigeria shore up the living standard of the masses.

Your Sexual Health & You: Novelty Tips, Questions & Answers

S

even years ago, I lost the love of my life to another man. I was in my final year in the university and m y girlfriend’s parents set her up to marry this rich and established guy. Back then I had nothing to offer her. I had no money, no job and no house but we were happy... until this rich man came and took her away from me. I have had many girlfriends ever since but I always thought about this particular girl. Her name is Mary.

Seven years later, I was at a wedding when I saw Mary again. She has two kids now. She has gained a little weight but she is still very pretty. And she is divorced.

All the memories of the good times we had in school just came rushing back as I saw her for the first time in years.

One thing led to another and we started seeing each other again. Back in school, I lacked sexual experience and often had premature ejaculation. But on the night I slept with this girl again after seven years, I had Sex Voltz and used Prolonging Delay cream and I fired this girl till morning.

She cried and said it was the best sex she ever had and that she should have waited for me years ago. I have tears in my eyes as I write this but I cannot change the past.

But I promise you that I will not lose this girl again. I will marry her in six months’ time and adopt her children.

That is a promise – Sam Wow Sam! You nearly made me cry too. I am happy for you. Life is unpredictable and sometimes, when something is meant to happen, it still happens no matter what. So good for you. Good luck my friend and I hope everything works out for you this time. Take care – Uche Dear Zee please I am really worried about my performance and I believe you can help me. I cannot have sex for more than two minutes and the sperm is so small when I ejaculate. I need help – Tony Dear Tony, don’t worry. To last longer in bed, all you need is one of these delay products, like Prolonging Delay

Cream, Delay Wipes or the Pasante Delay Condom. As for the sperm quantity problem, you can take a natural volumizer such as Explosion supplement or Max Load. Any of these two supplements increase sperm quantity and makes sex much more enjoyable because the more the sperm, the longer the orgasm and the sweeter the sex. Take care – Uche After our discussion, I took your advice and watched one the films you recommended. To my surprise, I easily got in the mood for sex. I actually thought I had a medical problem because I just find it hard to get in the mood. So please my husband and I want four more films. I am grateful – Mrs Abiola I am glad to hear this Mrs Abiola. Adult movies are visual aphrodisiacs and are very capable of arousing a viewer experiencing low arousal. You will like new movies such as Paris Chic, Soul Train XXX, Forbidden Tales and Bad Girls: 3 - Uche Hello. Please I need a lubricant that can do everything because I am on a budget. I also need a good and affordable vibrator. Thanks – Agnes Hello Agnes. Take Cleopatra’s Secret Female Arousal Gel. It lubricates, arouses and is also flavoured for oral sex. For the vibrators, take Seventh Heaven Multi-Function G Spot vibrator. It is affordable, gives squirting orgasms and has multiple functions of vibration and pulsation – Uche I like your products, especially the penis enlargers. Do you have new penis enlargers? Thanks – Fred Sure Fred. We have the Extreme Penis Plumper Cream and the Penis Enlargement Pump – Uche That’s it for this week. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. You can call us on 08027901621, 07038845262 or 08051924159 to order or you can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are. For enquiries, email custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media

62

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

NEWS INAUGURATION OF LEKKI-IKOYI LINK BRIDGE

•First Civilian Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande and his wife, Abimbola at the inauguration of Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge...yesterday

•Erelu Abiola Dosumu flanked by Senator Gbenga Ashafa (left) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Muhammed.

•Wolfgaug Erefs, Christian Housemarn, Laura Mossmer and Christian Mossmer

•Managing Director / Funding Manager, Lagos Microfinance • Senator Anthony Adefuye.

Institution, Musiliu Bakare and MD/CEO BatterSea Nigeria Limited Babatunde Balogun.

•Former Military Administrator of Lagos State and Chairman, Julius Berger Limited, Brig Gen. Mobolaji Johnson and his wife, Funmilayo

•Former Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Edun (right), Amuwo Odofin Local Government Chairman Ayodele Adewale (left) and businessman Tunji Olowolafe

•Former Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Musiliu Smith, Chief Imam, Bariga, Alhaji Gbajabiamila and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman in Lagos Monsignor Bernard Okodua.

•Mrs Bintu Fatima Tinubu

•Aladeshoyin of Noforija, Epe, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja and former Deputy Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, Mrs Toun Adediran

•ACN National Legal Adviser Muiz Banire and former Lagos Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Kemi Nelson.

•Krytyna Kirsch flanked on the left by Peter Haak and Stefan Uelzmann.

TODAY IN THE NATION

THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

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TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

HEY were in an unusually foul mood.

Puffy faces. Red eyes. Lips firmly wedged together in a desperate bid to block the anger threatening to tear through their stomachs and the dam of tears battling to burst through their eyes.

Why would governors be in such a mournful mood, like kids whose lollipops have been snatched by a discourteous elder? One of them was facing a battery of reporters, blubbing, blabbing and swearing that their man had been rigged out of the Governors’ Forum election. The others surrounded him.

They were like an overrated school soccer team that had just lost a crucial match, lining up behind their captain to get some whacking from a distraught headmaster. Humbled.

Hobbled. Humiliated. The governors were outfoxed by their own foxy indiscretion in a simple exercise that required the spirit of sportsmanship and not a do-or-die affair as advocated by their elders.

For this set of governors, it was indeed a time to mourn. But they were not short of ideas. They suborned Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, a honourable man, to humbug the public by insisting that he won the election in which the incumbent, Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, carried the day.

The script was clear. There was to be no election to prevent Amaechi from retaining the seat. But Akwa Ibom Governor Godswill Akpabio, another honourable man, the engine room of the massive anti-Amaechi scheme that turned awry, in his stark naivety, assured the Presidency that all would be well.

He was armed with a list of 19 governors whom he said had voted for Jang – sorry, His Excellency Jang. It turned out that the list had been compiled in April when governors were summoned to the Villa to extract from them a commitment to back the President’s candidate. Now, there are claims of forgery to which Akpabio and his gang are yet to reply.

A governor who was absent was said to have been part of the process. How? Even if indeed 19 had put pen to that paper, was it in anyway an indication of how they voted?

Like flood victims desperate to salvage their belongings, the losers, with bold faces, presented Jang to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership as the chair of the Governors’ Forum, the winner of the much coveted prize. If you thought the comical road show would tail off, you were wrong, damn wrong.

Jang returned home to Jos with his questionable prize, waving excitedly to a small crowd of people who had come to welcome him. He spoke of a national assignment – to use the Governors’ Forum for the benefit of all, and stormed a church to thank God, with the congregation singing high praises for what He had done. Merciful God! Shouldn’t comedy have its limits and limitations even in a country that has been a long running theatre of the bizarre, where reality is often blurred by the inanities of its leaders? Anyway, not so here. The Amaechi camp warned the “dissenters” to take it easy or face the ignominy of having the election shown on television. Apparently hooked on their mission to self-destruct, they kept fuelling the charade.

And there it was on Tuesday, the counting

VOL. 8, NO. 2,501

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

GBENGA OMOTOSO

EDITORIAL NOTEBOOK

gbenga.omotoso@thenationonlineng.net

•Winner, DAME Award for Informed Commentary

When governors go gaga

• Amaechi

• Jang

of the ballots and the announcement of the winner, Amaechi, right on television. It was exciting. Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi had hinted of the contents of the video, saying Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan – please, feel free to add the prefix His Excellency – was the Returning Officer.

Uduaghan, a doctor and a honourable man, denied that he played such a lowly role. It turned out – thanks to the revealing video – that His Excellency was right. He was no Returning Officer. He was the Supervisory Officer. Or better still, the Presiding Officer. His Excellency stood by the Returning Officer, Ashishana Okauru, while the counting and sorting of ballots were on. When it was all over, he walked away dejectedly. Poor guy.

Ondo State Governor Segun Mimiko – sorry, I keep forgetting the prefix, His Excellency; you may wish to put it before the name too – and Jang’s running mate let us all into

the world of governors running a 36-man election. He said the tension was so high that only providence averted a fisticuff. Oh no; c’mon gents; that’s not good enough; you should have gone all the way. Isn’t it all part of the system? Ever seen a Nigerian election without blood, blows and bullets? Aren’t they the badges of a great election, which you all proudly wear?

That was a great disservice to Nollywood.

Imagine an Akpabio – bulgy tummy, cheeks and all – facing an athletic Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, a physical exercise freak, in a no-holds-barred session, with all the other Excellencies by the ring side. Imagine. That would have been an instant box office hit, premiered on Democracy Day. I was told that Akpabio objected to Aregbesola filming the show, but the Osun governor, as inventive as ever, told Akpabio to stay off his camera and found a way of bringing what has been a huge success on YouTube and the local television stations.

The Presidency, apparently seeing that it had backed a misbegotten mission, washed its hands of it, saying President Goodluck Jonathan had no interest whatsoever in the matter. Haba! They can say that a million times, but who will believe them? Who? Now when governors pray at their meetings, will they find it easy closing their eyes and not feeling that somebody will draw a dagger?

The Villa made no pretence about its objection to Amaechi’s vision for the forum.

He insisted on true federalism and fiscal responsibility as well as strict adherence to the rule of law – a much abused concept on which this administration anchored its image, but which has become an irritant sloganeering –

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and became a thorn in the flesh. He was persecuted. His state’s aircraft has been grounded on questionable excuses. Some Rivers oil wells have gone to Bayelsa on grounds that are still being contested. The PDP leadership in the state has been changed in rancorous circumstances. The House of Assembly has suspended a local government’s officials for alleged fraud, but the PDP has blamed the action on Amaechi. He has been suspended. Is he the Assembly?

It is all part of the growing fratricidal war in the PDP in the run-up to the 2015 election.

The self-acclaimed biggest party in Africa is obviously jittery that many of its leading lights may have seen the light and would not want to be on the wrong side of history. So, they are jumping ship to the fledgling All Progressives Congress (APC).

For the PDP, the cycle seems to be closing.

Most of the 36 governors belong to the party.

They have just shown the world how they have been winning elections, but even the best of magicians, tricksters and pranksters know that no show can last forever. The PDP, by overheating the polity and confusing governance with politics in a country that is so desirous of great leadership, is writing its own obituary.

Nigeria, a country that seems to be perpetually at war – Boko Haram, corruption, hunger, disease and decaying infrastructure, among other ailments - deserves a better leadership, considering its situation.

Many have questioned the rationale behind the formation of a Governors’ Forum. They say it has no constitutional backing and nobody should lose sleep over its leadership.

In official circles, it has been derided as a mere trade union, like the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). Whichever way we look at it, the crisis has elevated it to a big prize, a smashing beauty desperately desired by the Presidency, yet so far from its long reach.

To some, it is all part of the huge joke that our leaders are turning Nigeria into. Consider this sent to me by a friend: “New movie premiere. How three PDP governors ‘ported’ Akpabio. Now showing at Nigeria Governors’ Forum. Action-packed. Don’t miss it.

Tickets free, courtesy of Aso Wreck Inc.” I do not believe the governors should apologise for causing so much embarrassment to us all. Where is our sense of humour? After all, was it not all in the spirit of Children’s Day? •For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Amaechi, Aliyu, loyalty pledge and Jonathan

OMENTS after he was re-elected as chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) last Friday, Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State gave a short and, for someone who cuts a fairly radical or activist image, unusual statement about democracy and President Goodluck Jonathan. The election was victory for democracy and proved the resolve of the governors to affirm the unity of the Forum, he said with a strong hint of exaggeration. But as for Dr. Jonathan, the governor felt a desperate urge to pacify him, thereby giving the impresFORMER FCT MINISTER GAVE CONTRACTS sion he not only contested against the Plateau State governor, Jonah Jang, but also against the TO HIS FRIENDS -PDP scribe president. It is not clear that everyone will agree the governor needed to pacify the president, but he did so nonetheless with extraordinary self-effacement. As he put it delicately, “We remain committed to supporting our leader, the president and commander in chief of the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to realise the development dream of all Nigerians by reducing tension, uncertainty and insecurity in our beloved country. We want to pledge our steadfastness and resolve working alongside Mr. President to better the lives of our people as we render transparent and accountable stewardship.”

But Mr. Amaechi is not the only one pledging So he should have given to his loyalty to the president, even though it is all ENEMIES...ehn? but obvious the pledge was cynical and per-

RIPPLES

‘Jang, who was not graceful enough to accept defeat, is obviously also deficit in tolerance and compromise, the two most important ingredients of democracy. He needs these attributes to stop the bloodletting between the Fulani and their chief hosts, the Berom’ JIDE OLUWAJUYITAN

functory. Governor of Niger State, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, also felt compelled to offer the same peace offering when the president visited Niger State for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Zungeru Hydro-electric Power Project. Responding to widespread report he was warring against the president, Dr. Aliyu remarked effusively: “Those thinking that there is war between the Niger State government and governor and the president should swallow their spit. We are one; we recognise that the people of Nigeria elected him and we respect that. If we do not respect and follow you (Mr. President), God will ask us. So we are saying, Mr. President that we are for you…We are with you and I hereby pledge my government and people’s loyalty and support to you.” But shouldn’t everyone pledge his loyalty to the constitution?

It is unlikely Dr. Jonathan would believe the two governors. By lashing out furiously against Mr. Amaechi through the Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) immediately after the NGF poll, the president gave indication he was impervious to the governor’s blandishments. And while he may also not be able to lash out against the Niger State governor as he would like, he will at least take the governor’s protestations with a pinch of salt. On their own, it is unlikely the two governors think the president would be misled by their red herrings. Why, then, don’t we cut to the chase by

showing one another our true colours and forswearing the cultural nuance of groveling before power? It is true that by the Nigerian constitution the president has nearly limitless power to do and undo, yet both the spirit and the letter of the constitution do not grant the president such powers as many imagine. But by groveling before the president/head of state and deferring to him sycophantically, as has been done by the political elite over the decades, the president can be forgiven for imagining he transcends the constitution and has the power of life and death over every citizen. After all, the police, secret service and the army believe everyone is a subject to be treated shabbily, not a citizen whose rights are non-derogable.

Let Mr. Amaechi enjoy his NGF victory unabashedly, notwithstanding the compulsive bellyaching of his traducers and the aggressive intrigues of Dr Jonathan and the PDP. And beyond the routine exhibition of official courtesies, let Dr Aliyu also put his foot down whenever the need arises, for in truth, there is really no pleasing this president, at least not with the scheming gerontocrats around him disturbing the peace of the country. Blessed will be the day when the president climbs down from his high horse, and the people climb up from their genuflecting and groveling sewers, and we all meet at the table of reason and moderation where everyone knows his limits within the sacred confines of the constitution.

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