The Nation May 31, 2012 by The Nation

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VOL. 7, NO. 2142 THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

Court dismisses suit against Salami’s reinstatement

Court jails Taylor 50 years

IBERIA’s ex-President Charles Taylor’s life of crime collapsed yesterday. He was sentenced to 50 years in jail by a UN-backed war crimes court. Last month, Taylor was found guilty of aiding and abetting rebels in Sierra Leone during the 1991-2002 civil war. Special Court for Sierra Leone judges said the sentence reflected his status as head of state at the time and his betrayal of public trust. Taylor, 64, insists he is innocent and his lawyer has told the BBC he will appeal against the sentence. Continued on page 2

N150.00

A •Taylor ...yesterday

FEDERAL High Court, Abuja yesterday dismissed a suit challenging the reinstatement of the suspended President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Isa Ayo Salami, for lacking in merit. A lawyer, Noah Ajare, sued

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Judicial Stakeholders Review Committee chaired by former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Mohammed Uwais over the recommenda-

•Traffic gridlock on Oworonshoki enroute Third Mainland Bridge, as a result the students’ protest…yesterday.

tion to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Dahiru Musdapher, to reinstate Justice Salami. He asked the court to restrain the NJC from deliberating on the said recommenContinued on page 2

PHOTO: NAN

UNILAG shut as students’ protest grounds Lagos Fed Govt adamant Soyinka, Afe Babalola, others kick

L •The late Abiola

AGOS was groaning yesterday under a massive traffic jam that crippled business and social activities. Protesting University of Lagos (UNILAG) students blocked the everbusy Third Mainland Bridge, the major link between Lagos Mainland and

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

the Island — for many hours. It was the second day of protests against the renaming of the institution Moshood Abiola University, Lagos by President Goodluck Jonathan in his May 29 Democracy Day broadcast.

The students barricaded the Adeniji-Adele end of the bridge during the early morning rush hour, grounding Nigeria’s business and financial engine-room. The police later SEE ALSO dispersed the protesters who PAGES 4&5

carried placards, with many inscriptions against the decision of the President to rename the 50-year-old institution after the late Abiola, winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election — Nigeria’s freest and fairest ever — which was annulled by the Gen. IbraContinued on page 2

•POLITICS P18 •SPORTS P23 •NATURAL HEALTH P34 •MONEY LINK P51

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS Court dismisses suit against Salami’s reinstatement Continued from page 1

•Former South African President Nelson Mandela (sitting left), his wife Graca, (standing third left) look on when Mandela received a symbolic flame to mark the African National Congress (ANC’s) symbolic flame to mark the ruling party’s centenary at his rural home in Qunu...yesterday. It was Mandela’s first public appearance in six months. PHOTO: AFP

Soyinka: why I oppose naming of UNILAG after Abiola

OBEL laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has joined the growing opposition against the renaming of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Moshood Abiola University, Lagos. “This is one gift horse which, contrary to traditional saying, must be inspected thoroughly in the mouth”, he said yesterday in a statement entitled “Goodluck Jonathan’s gift horse.” Soyinka said: “Primary from all of us must be a plea to the MKO Abiola family not to misconstrue the protests against the naming of the University of Lagos after their heroic patriarch. Issues must be separated and understood in their appropriate contexts. The family will acknowledge that, among the loudest opposing voices to Jonathan’s gift horse, are those who have clamoured tirelessly that MKO Abiola, the Nigerian nation’s presidentelect, be honoured nationally, and in a befitting manner.

“Next is my confession to considerable shock that President Goodluck Jonathan did not even think it fit to consult or inform the administrators of the university, including Council and Senate, of his intention to re-name their university for any reason, however laudable. This arbitrariness, this act of disrespect, was a barely tolerated aberration of military governance. It is totally deplorable in what is supposed to be a civilian order. “After that comes the badmouthing of MKO Abiola and the Nigerian electorate by President Jonathan who referred to MKO as the “presumed winner” of a historic election. While applauding the president for finally taking the bull by the horns and rendering honour unto whom honour is due, the particularities of this gesture have made it dubious, suspect, and tainted. You do not honour someone while detracting from his or her record of achievement. MKO Abiola

was not a presumed winner, but the President-elect of a nation, and thus universally acknowledged. “It is sad, very sad, that after his predecessor who, for eight full years of presidency, could not even bear to utter the name of a man who made his own incumbency possible, along comes someone who takes back with the left hand what the right has offered. However, there is hope. Legalists have claimed that there is a legal flaw to the entire process. The university, solidly backed by other tertiary institutions nationwide, should immediately proceed to the courts of law and demand a ‘stay of execution’. That should give President Jonathan time to re-consider and perhaps shift his focus to the nation’s capital for institutions begging for rituals of renaming. After all, it is on record that the House of Assembly did once resolve that the Abuja stadium be named after the man already bestowed the unique

title of “Pillar of African Sports”. He deserved that, and a lot more. What he did not deserve is to be, albeit posthumously, the centre of a fully avoidable acrimony, one that has now resulted in the shutting down one of the institutions of learning to whose cause, the cause of learning, President-elect MKO Abiola also made unparalleled private contributions. “Let me end by stressing that my position remains the same as it was when the University of Ife was re-named Obafemi Awolowo University. I deplored it at the time, deplore it till today, have never come to terms with it, and still hope that some day in the not too distant future, that crime against the culture of institutional autonomy will be rectified. Let us not compound the aberrations of the past with provocations in an era that should propel us towards a belated new Age of Enlightenment.”

dation. He also prayed for an order of interim injunction restraining the council and the panel from further holding meetings, discussion and all recommendations for the reinstatement of Justice Salami, pending the hearing of the substantive matter. But, rising from its meeting in Abuja on May 10, the council recommended the reinstatement of Justice Salami to President Goodluck Jonathan. A few days later, Ajare, who claimed that he had no personal interest in the matter, rushed to the court again to file another suit to restrain Jonathan from approving the recommendation. That suit is pending before Justice Adamu Bello. Ruling on the suit against the NJC and the Uwais Committee yesterday, Justice Abdul Kafarati said the Plaintiff has no locus standi to initiate the action.

Ajare had relied on his membership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to file the suit. But the Judge held that “with due respect, that alone cannot confer locus” on him. “He can only have locus if he can show special interest over and above others or show that his interest will be adversely affected.” Describing the plaintiff as a busy-body, the court held that the NJC needs no interference of his to resolve its issues. “The issue of reinstatement of Justice Salami can be decided without the presence of the Plaintiff. To me, the Plaintiff has no work to do; he has no work to do.” “The second Defendant (Uwais Reform Committee) is not a legal person. The committee, having been dissolved and not being a creation of the law, the name is hereby struck out from the suit. The case lacks merit; it is accordingly dismissed.”

Taylor bags 50 years jail Continued from page 1 place over five years - included

“The 50-year sentence is effectively a life sentence for someone that age - the rules of the court prohibit expressly the imposition of a life sentence,” defence counsel Morris Anyah said. The appeal process could last up to six months. While Mr Taylor never set foot in Sierra Leone, his heavy footprint is there,” the judge said. Taylor, wearing a suit and yellow tie, showed no emotion during the hearing. “The accused has been found responsible for aiding and abetting some of the most heinous crimes in human history,” Judge Richard Lussick said. The crimes - which took

cutting off the limbs of their victims and cutting open pregnant women to settle bets over the sex of their unborn children, he said. The prosecution had wanted an 80-year prison term to reflect the severity of the crimes and the central role that Taylor had in facilitating them. Sentencing the 64-year-old former president to 50 years means in effect that Charles Taylor will spend the rest of his life locked up in jail. His defence team was hoping judges would take into account the fact that Taylor has a family: he is a father of 14 children and an educated man. But the judges decided his role in aiding and abetting the RUF rebels in Sierra Leone was serious enough to warrant 50 years.

UNILAG students block Third Mainland Bridge in protest UNILAG renaming noble but illegal, says Afe Babalola

Continued from page 1

him Babangida junta. The Senate of the institution halted the two-day protest by suspending academic activities for the next two weeks. It also ordered the students to vacate the campus with immediate effect. Many Lagosians were stranded as traffic was held up on the bridge for many hours. While many of the people travelling in commercial buses aborted their trips and trekked many kilometers back, vehicle owners were stuck. There was also an early morning rainfall. However, opponents of the renaming of the University may have lost the battle – at least for now - with the Federal Government saying yesterday it’s decision is irreversible. Information Minister Mr. Labaran Maku, who was responding to questions from reporters on the protest that greeted the President’s gesture, noted that Nigerians should not allow the protest to overshadow the national significance of what President Jonathan has done. According to him, the President only showed that he truly appreciates the significance of Abiola’s contribution to Nigeria’s political development.

ORMER Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of the University of Lagos, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) yesterday said the renaming of the institution after the late Chief Moshood Abiola was “noble” but illegal. He said before the decision to change the name was taken, no amendment was made to the provisions of the University of Lagos Act. President Goodluck Jonathan usurped the powers of the National Assembly by The late Chief Abiola, a frontline business man died in prison while attempting to claim the June 12, 1993 mandate freely given to him by Nigerians. Jonathan had stated that Abiola’s death in custody proved to be the catalyst for the people’s pro-democracy uprising. But the decision did not go down well with the students of the university who hit the street in protest. Maku said: “For those of us who have been part of this country for long and who have been adults that lived through the history of Nigeria, particularly in the last two decades’ if there is any figure that symbolises sacrifice of self for this nation, that figure is Chief M.K.O Abiola, who clearly won the June12 1993 presidential election and died in captivity because he stood for princi-

By Joseph Jibueze

not seeking its backing, he said. According to him, even though the motive was noble, the Federal Government followed an unconstitutional procedure. He said such a decision would have been better effected if proper attention had been given to the provisions of the Constitution and the University of Lagos Act. Babalola, who was Abiola’s lawyer, add-

ple. He stood to defend the principle of democracy, and anyone that is familiar with the development of our politics in the last two decades, there is no event in the political history of our country that touches the hearts of quite a significant number of citizens like the June 12 Presidential election. “In the last two decades, there have been widespread outcry that this democracy has not given Chief M.K.O Abiola and other heroes who passed on in controversial circumstances as a result of what they did to stand for the democratic development of this country. These outcry has continued to come from citizens spread across the nation. “What Mr. President did was to listen to the outpouring of appeals of persuasion by Nigerians across this coun-

ed that President Jonathan’s powers as visitor to the university did not include changing its name without recourse to the National Assembly. In a statement, the senior advocate said many notable Nigerians who championed the call for the immortalisation of Abiola’s contribution to the current democratic dispensation were appalled at the manner with which the government

try that MKO deserved to be immortalised. What he, therefore, did in his capacity as a visitor to the University of Lagos was to name the university after Moshood Abiola of blessed memory. He did so in the best interest of the country; he did so because any nation that does not honour those who clearly stand out and make a sacrifice as a role model for others to follow cannot appeal to the best in its own traditions for citizens to follow. The decision has been made in very good faith by Mr. President and we have seen the reactions by a section of the students of the University of Lagos. We have also seen the outpouring of encomiums by patriots and statesmen who really understand the reasons why the President honoured Abiola.

Continued on page 55

“It is our hope that reason will prevail and that the decision to honour one of our nations’s heroes will be appreciated by all Nigerians, including our youths and students who are the future leaders of this country. “Yes, sometimes government decisions get reactions from the populace. We do not as an administration see this as disapproval. We just see it as a normal way in every democracy that when you make major decisions, definitely sometimes you have public reaction but we should not allow the protest to overshadow the national significance of

what Mr. President has done. I think he has shown that he is a true statesman and he truly appreciates the significance of M.K.O’s contribution in the political development of our country. “I think the most important thing is that this decision should unify Nigeria: those who believe in one country, those who believe in one democracy, those who believe in the reward for sacrifice for the nation and I think that is exactly what the President did.” He also recollected the renaming of the University of Ife after Chief Obafemi Awolowo. “I remember that around 1987-88 when one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists, and leaders, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, passed on. The Federal Government renamed the University of Ife as Obafemi Awolowo University. In addition to that also, in the course of our history, we have had several national institutions named after our past heroes and even living heroes,” Maku said.

OUR ERROR The President was erroneously referred to as Vice President on a half page advertisement published on page 62 of May 30 edition. The error is regretted. -Editor

ADVERT HOTLINES: 01-280668, 08070591302, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS

UNILAG students block Third Mainland Bridge •RATTAWU praises Jonathan

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (left), with the guest Speaker at the fifth anniversary of the Fashola administration, Prof. Raphael Akinfeleye (right), his wife, Mrs. Carol Akinfeleye (second right), Managing Director, The Guardian Mr. Emeka Izeze (middle) and the Executive Chairman, MITV/Star Fm Alhaji (Dr.) Muri Gbade Busari (second left) during a dinner in honour of media executives...on Tuesday. PHOTO: MOSES OMOSEHIN

HE Senate of the University of Lagos yesterday directed that all academic activities in the institution be suspended for two weeks, following protests by students of the institution over Federal Government’s renaming of their school after the late Chief Moshood Abiola. In a statement by the university’s Deputy Registrar, Mr Seth Dare, the Senate ordered all students to vacate their halls of residence yesterday. The statement reads: “In view of the recent developments on our campuses, the Senate of the University has directed that all academic activities be suspended for two weeks. The university security has been mandated to ensure compliance.” It, however, said the burial arrangements for the institution’s late Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adetokunbo Sofoluwe, who died on May 12, would still go on as planned. The protests which started on Tues-

By Joseph Jibueze, Paul Oluwakoya and Precious Igbonwelundu

day continued yesterday with the students blocking the Third Mainland Bridge. Vehicular movement was halted for over three hours on the busy bridge linking the mainland to the island. The aggrieved students blocked the Adeniji-Adele end of the bridge waving placards and demanding a reversal of the pronouncement, which they claimed was done in bad fate. The traffic stretched from the protest point down to Iyana-Oworo such that all vehicles on the bridge turned off their car engines. Commuters on commercial vehicles, including BRT buses were seen alighting the vehicles and trekking to the Island. Others trekked from the Adeniji end to Iyanaoworo despite the rain.

Lawyers: Presidential proclamation insufficient •Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, his wife Florence, Commissioner for Works Alhaji Yunus Akintunde and Chairman, Akinyele Local Government, Mr Mukaila Ambali, at the inauguration of Ajibode/Sasa Road by the Governor to mark his first year in office in Ibadan... yesterday

•Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi (second right) with the out-going Archbishop of Ondo Province and Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Anglican Communion, the Most Revd. Samuel Abe (left) and his wife, Janet, during the presentation of a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Jeep to Archbishop Abe in Ado-Ekiti...yesterday.

WO lawyers have faulted Tuesday’s renaming of the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University, Lagos by President Goodluck Jonathan. The lawyers, Moubo MudiagaOdje and Martin Ene-Edah, said Jonthan’s action lacked legal backing as the university was established by an Act of parliament. Mudiaga-Odje said for the rechristening to become effective there has to be a similar Act. “UNILAG is a creation of a 1962 Act of Parliament, renaming same without recourse to parliament is illegal. He said Abiola was a great patriot, who served Nigeria benevolently, but faulted President Jonathan’s choice of UNILAG as a means of immortalising him, hinting that there could be more to the act than meets the eyes. He said if the President was indeed serious, he should have chosen the historical June 12 as Democracy Day in view of the significance

‘Nigerians need security, not renaming of UNILAG’

•Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda (left) being briefed by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Yusuf Gumli during the governor's visit to the site of the Bauchi State International Airport Projects at Durum, Bauchi...yesterday

From Shola O’Neil, Port Harcourt of that election, which is still adjudged as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history. The legal practitioner wondered if the move was “politically motivated action to unsettle the most stable and viable state in Nigeria for their steadfastness against an arbitrary increase in fuel price. He urged caution and reminded the President and the ruling PDP that “Politics make all the problems but can’t solve them.” Ene-Edah said: “The University of Lagos was established in virtue of University of Lagos Act, CAP U9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 by Section 1 thereof stating that there shall be established a University known as University of Lagos. “The only way to change the name University of Lagos is by an amendment to this Act and NOT by Presidential proclamation”, he said, adding that as an academic the President Jonathan should have known better.

HE National Treasurer, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Kenneth Kobani, yesterday said most Nigerians need adequate security and basic infrastructure, not renaming of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to Moshood Abiola University. He spoke with reporters in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital. Kobani said the broadcast should not be an opportunity for making controversial pronouncements, like changing the name of UNILAG. Kobani said: “This is not about belonging to the opposition party. The truth is that a lot must be done to move this country forward, for the benefit of Nigerians and their unborn children. There is no sentiment about it. “There will be hope for Nigerians, if the President changes his style of

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

leadership. Some of the people around him (Jonathan) are not helping him. How could they have allowed him to come up with such a speech, without considering the mood of the nation? “The situation where Nigeria’s roads, hospitals, schools, among others, are in bad shape and the President is saying that his administration has achieved results within the past 12 months is unacceptable. This cannot be the transformation he promised Nigerians. “President Jonathan’s broadcast on May 29 was a distraction. A lot of things contained in it did not answer many questions Nigerians have continued to ask. Changing the name of UNILAG does not in any way give hope to Nigerians, that there will be a better tomorrow.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS RENAMING OF UNILAG ABIOLA VARSITY

•UNILAG students who took to the street...yesterday

When asked if they were trekking to their destination, a passenger said “do we have a choice?” Another group urged our reporter to join them in the trek to the Island. The Nation spoke to some of the passengers who expressed their dissatisfaction with the development.

Some were overheard expressing fears that the bridge may be overwhelmed as a result of the static weight on it. Vehicle owners who attempted to reverse to try the Ikorodu axis learnt that it was also blocked. One of the protesters said: “Unilag is a brand. The reputation and pres-

tige of the varsity will fall, if the name sticks and that is why everybody is angry. “We don’t have anything against MKO Abiola. Those of us that are students of history and part of the political development of the country feel MKO is a great personality who should be honoured but the singular

fact that the varsity community, starting from the Senate, down to the students, was not consulted is irritating. This is democracy for goodness sake. You don’t just do things singlehandedly. “The acting VC alleged the school was not informed about the change of name. I think this is why the authorities have called for a closure of the school for two weeks or may be because the protest has escalated beyond the school premises.” Police Public Relations Officer(PPRO) Joseph Jaiyeoba said senior officers were deployed to the venue to arrest the situation. He said: “We have since deployed Senior Officers to the place to ensure there is no violence as well as urge the students to leave the road so that people can go about their businesses. “We are trying to make them realise that as students today they should not take laws into their hands, and should also be worthy ambassadors of the institution.” The Radio Television Theatre and Arts Workers (RATTAWU) has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for renaming the University of Lagos (UNILAG) after late Moshood Abiola. RATTAWU President Yemisi Bamgbose, who made the commendation in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, said that immortalising Abiola’s name was long overdue.

President Goodluck Jonathan, on Tuesday in a nationwide broadcast to mark “Democracy Day’’, announced the renaming of the UNILAG after Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential elections. Abiola, then a business mogul, contested the election on the platform of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). Bamgbose said Nigerians had been waiting for successive administrations to “take the bold step, in this regard’’, considering the role played by Abiola in restoring democratic rule to the country. “It does not matter the institution named after him; the most important thing is that the President has demonstrated that he is a democrat. “He has also shown that the labour of our heroes as contained in the National Anthem, is not in vain; so people should praise the courage of the President.’’ The union leader described UNILAG “as a famous university”, saying that he did not see the president’s action as localising Abiola’s sacrifice. He said Jonathan was able to do what others did not have the courage to do since the end of military rule in 1999, and that he should be commended for his action. “None of the past leaders has shown such courage except former Gov. Olusegun Osoba of Ogun, who named the State Polytechnic after Abiola.”

Name change good but ill-timed, say Agbaje, Aturu

ORE Nigerians yesterday added their voices to the renaming of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in honour of the late Chief Moshood Abiola. Professor of Law, Mr Gabriele Olawoyin and rights activists Mr Fred Agbaje and Bamidele Aturu yesterday said the move was good but ill-timed. They said the change is not backed by law. But, the Human Rights Writers’Association (HURIWA) said it was a positive step. Olawoyin said it is a pity the President did not recognise that the name UNILAG is a brand, adding that Jonathan acted as though it were a military dispensation. Olawoyin said: “This is not a military rule. What the President attempted to do was what a military man would easily have done but in a truly civilian administration, you don’t do that kind of thing.” According to the law professor, UNILAG is an institution created by

By Joseph Jibueze, and Precious Igbonwelundu

law and any change in the law has to go through the National Assembly before any pronouncement is made. “The President may have done the right thing, but in a wrong way,” Olawoyin concluded. Agbaje said: “Did the President not see the National Stadium or any other monument to honour Chief Abiola with? “Look at the protests his pronouncement has generated? Abiola deserves to be honoured and it should be done in the proper way.” Aturu said UNILAG was christened by law and can only be rechristened by law, even as he maintained that a government that is unwilling to respect the decision of the National Judicial Council (NJC) to re-instate the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Isa Ayo Salami, may have shot itself in the foot. On account of this alone, UNILAG students will be justified to resist the name change coming from a gov-

ernment that is perceived as lawless, the lawyer said. He said: “Democracy is all about consultation and consensus. The government has clearly and manifestly failed to carry the people along. The lesson for it is that no matter how lofty its aims may be it must win the support of the people on critical issues. “I sincerely hope that it will take this lesson to heart in its proposal to jerk up electricity bills and fully deregulate the downstream sector of the oil industry, whatever that really means. “There is nothing wrong with renaming institutions after heroes of liberal democracy, provided the aim is not to garner cheap populism. The government must be willing and be seen to be committed to the principles of liberal democracy for which Moshood Abiola suffered and died. “The Attorney-General of the Federation ought to have guided the President, assuming his opinion was sought. Nevertheless, the change of name cannot lawfully be done until

NLC, Oyegun, Owie applaud Jonathan

IGERIA Labour Congress (NLC) has given President Goodluck Jonathan a pass mark for renaming the University of Lagos Moshood Abiola University. Labour said that was the only worthy thing in the President’s Democracy Day speech. Vice-President of the NLC Comrade Isa Aremu said: “Abiola, as far as Labour is concerned, deserves more than that. Even though UNILAG is a national institution, we would have loved an institution like the National Stadium in Abuja. If the President had consulted labour, we would have told him that Abiola deserve more than UNILAG.” He added that it was a good step towards correcting the failure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

HURIWA advised the Federal Government to ensure the UNILAG Act is amended to reflect the name change. In a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko and National Media Director, Miss Zainab Yusuf, the

group said it would have been legally sound and widely acceptable, if the necessary legal impediments are dismantled before the President could disclose government’s intention to rename the institution. HURIWA said: “We are, however, unhappy that the students of the former University of Lagos now Moshood Abiola University could take action that denigrate and dishonour the memory of the great hero of democracy who fought vigorously to institutionalise democracy, respect for the fundamental human rights of citizens and respect for the principle of Rule of law. “Abiola is and would remain one of Nigeria’s greatest Democracy martyrs who was brutally and gruesomely murdered by the military cabal in an attempt to frustrate the actualisation of Democracy in Nigeria.”

Belgore: Right procedure not followed by Fed Govt

By Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu and Osagie Otabor, Benin

He said: “Obasanjo inexplicably failed to recognise Abiola throughout his tenure even though he benefited from the June 12 struggle.” Former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Oyegun, applauded the decision, saying: “It is high time a major national monuments was named after Abiola. If airports could be named after Murtala and Azikiwe, there was no reason why a major monument should not be named after him, immortalising Abiola did not detract from the fact that he should have be president of the country.” Former Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Roland Owie, commended Jonathan for what he termed using ‘love to cure hate’ over the honouring

the Act establishing UNILAG has been amended. “Maybe the Federal Government is trying to demystify Abiola’s liberal legacies by showing that he is not treasured when it was the shoddy manner the name change was or is being executed that is the problem. We shall see how all of this plays out in the next few days. “The reality that confronts all of us is that the generation of UNILAG students may not even understand our history. It is likely they do not appreciate the significance of the late Abiola to liberal democracy. This is a matter that I consider more worrisome. The generational disconnect is huge. This administration is fast becoming a needless burden.”

•Omar

of Abiola. Owie said the late Abiola contributed to the development of democracy and also died in the course. He said: “That is fantastic. We thank the president for honouring a man who laboured for democracy, even though answers have not been given to who is that group of politicians that aided and abated the General Obasanjo government to remove the Electoral College clause from the Transitional Decree of 1978.”

ENIOR Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Mr Dele Belgore (SAN) yesterday said President Goodluck Jonathan did not follow due process in renaming University of Lagos (UNILAG) Moshood Abiola University, Lagos. Belgore said Jonathan got it absolutely wrong, adding that it is a desecration of a national institution. He noted that the President has politicised academia. He said: “There are procedures to follow. You do not just get up and announce the renaming of an institution created by law. Since the law says that the institution shall be called the University of Lagos, the law establishing the institution has to be changed before such an announcement. “If there was broad enough consultation, I believe he will probably not have fallen into this kind of error. A protest that causes inconvenience to the general public should be generally condemned, but looking at it from the protesters’ point of view, they have got to be heard. If they do not create inconvenience for the public, nobody is going to hear them. “The question is, is it really what we need at this time? UNILAG will be 50 years in a short while and the late Vice-Chancellor will also be buried today. Let’s even assume it is the right time to change the name, is it the way to go about it? “So, the action itself is provocative and one that has given rise to the protest.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS ‘How to make democracy work’ By Sunday Oguntola

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun and Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, with members of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and pupils during Orisun Art Exhibition organised by the ministry at Olumo Tourist Centre, Abeokuta...yesterday

2012 Budget: Jonathan lied, says Senate

HE war of words between President Goodluck Jonathan and the National Assembly may be far from over. The Senate yesterday said Jonathan lied over the role played by the National Assembly in the 2012 Budget. On Monday, Jonathan and House of Representatives’ Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal openly disagreed at the Presidential Villa, Abuja over the failure of the President to assent to Bills passed by the National Assembly. Jonathan fired back that the lawmakers are overreaching the separation of powers as enshrined in the constitution. Deputy Senate President yesterday at a Public Hearing on “A Bill to create Erosion control and prevention Commission (Establishment etc) 2012” described as “distortion of facts” the claim of Jonathan that the National Assembly made inputs into the 2012 Budget that rendered it unimplementable. Ekweremadu said the Presidency has no excuse not to fully implement the budget. He wondered why President Jonathan would accuse the National Assembly of tearing the 2012 budget into piece “when we sent it back substantially the way they

•Urges president to sign Tobacco Bill, others From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

brought it to us.” He said the National Assembly is constitutionally empowered to appropriate for the country. He frowned at the refusal of President Jonathan to assent to numerous Bills passed by the National Assembly. He said: “Now this reminds me of what the President said during the democracy day symposium. “We expressed our displeasure over some of the Bills which we sent to the Presidency for assent since last year that have not received Presidential assent. “And in response, the President said that is because we are creating agencies. We will continue to create agencies if it is important because that is why we are here. So we have to do our job. If agencies are to be created, they need to be created. Just to add to that, most of those Bills have nothing to do with agencies. “I remember we have the State of the Nation Address Bill, it has nothing to do with agency and it has not been signed.

“We have the National Health Bill. It has nothing to do with an agency. It has not been signed. We have the Air Force Institute of Technology Bill and Tobacco Bill. “A whole number of Bills that would have changed a lot of things for this country have not been signed. “So, my advice to the Executive Arm of Government is to dialogue with the legislature in matter like this and find a common ground, instead of shifting blames because the making of laws is dynamic. “If institutions are to be created they will definitely be created. Any person who thinks that the creation of institutions should stop is wasting his time. It would not stop because the society itself is dynamic. “I also believe that the issue which he also raised regarding the Appropriation Bill was also a distortion of facts. “The President said that we tore the Appropriation Bill into pieces which made it impossible for implementation. Certainly that is not so. “I am aware that the 2012 Appropriation Bill was returned to the Executive substantially the

same way they brought it. “So we are challenging them to ensure that that Bill, the 2012 Appropriation Act is fully implemented. “We did that, we gave them back the Appropriation Bill the way it came mostly because all the years they have been complaining that they could not implement the budget because of the inputs of the National Assembly. “So this year we said we are not making any input; we are going to give you the Bill the way you brought it as a challenge to ensure that it is implemented. “So we expect them to implement it 100 per cent because that is their own vision. “Of course, he also made reference to a point where they wanted to go to court to challenge the role of the National Assembly in altering Appropriation Bills. “Well, that will be a welcome development. “So we want to suggest that the Executive should please take that step of going to the Supreme Court or any court they wish to look at the constitutionality of our role in terms of appropriation for this country. “We will be happy to see the outcome and of course, we will obey whatever the court says.”

DDC machines not properly stored in states, says Jega

NDICATION that the N35 billion Direct Data Capture (DDC) Machine purchased for the 2011 general elections may not be used for the 2015 election emerged yesterday. The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Prof. Attahiru Jega said the machines are not being properly stored in the 36 states. He spoke in Abuja yesterday during an interactive session with the Senate Committee on INEC, led by its Chairman, Senator Andy Uba. According to him, there is no facility in place to store such DDC machines and other sensitive INEC materials. He said the INEC budget for 2012 was slashed by about 60 per cent of the original proposal, urging the National Assembly and the Presidency to correct the anomaly through the next supplementary budget. He said: “We have a very huge challenge about the condition of our

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

stores. We have six zonal stores and we did our best to decongest them and also to repair them before the 2011 elections and also under the 2011 Budget, we did a lot of repairs. Virtually, all the six zonal stores are now in a better shape than they were before. “But the states’ stores are in very bad shape because we require a lot of capital budget to be able to, virtually in every state, to expand the stores. We did our best to decongest them before the elections and we even engage major corporate organisations to help us with containers. “Julius Berger and Dangote Group gave us a total of 300 containers, some of them 20 foot and others 40 foot, which were used to decongest some of the old materials in the stores in the states to be able to put our DDC machines and other new materials. “If you visit some of these stores, you will be concerned about the way the DDC machines are being kept.

But we can’t do otherwise because we don’t have anything to do. That is why we are engaging the National Assembly and the Executive in order to discuss how best to deal with this huge quantities of DDC machines that we have. “If there is opportunity again under supplementary budget, we need to pay attention to expanding the stores in all our offices. Since we have a lot of equipment and technology, we need to have specially designed and constructed stores that can keep some of these equipment. Right now, we don’t have that kind of facilities in the stores.” On permanent voters’ card, he said: “The contract we gave, before the end of this year, 40 million cards will be ready. We are learning from the experiences of the past. It is no use producing millions of voters’ card and they don’t get to the actual owners. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on INEC, Senator Andy Uba, said the committee’s visit was not to witch-hunt the commission. He

•Jega

urged INEC to ensure that all its personnel, equipment and other materials are geared towards successful 2015 elections. He said: “We have to work fast with the supplementary budget because what you have is not enough to meet up with a successful elections in 2015.”

THE Senior Pastor of Sure Word Assembly, Okota, Lagos, Dr Dennis Inyang, has canvassed for an independent judiciary to make democracy work. He lamented that Nigerians are yet to enjoy dividends of democracy commensurable with the quantum of wealth available in the country. Inyang, who spoke with reporters yesterday, said the nation’s democratic experience has been stifled by do-or-die attitude and electoral frauds. He also lamented electoral cases has been plagued by political considerations and sentiments, saying such development will continue to hurt the nation’s democracy. To make democracy work, Inyang said ‘’there must be credible elections where the people are allowed to freely and transparently choose their leaders.’’ He urged the political class not to undermine the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct credible elections. He said: ‘’The judiciary must revamp itself and fairly adjudicate on the many cases that are a natural fall-out of every election. Happily, we now have a timeline for the determination of election petitions. ‘’People make politics a do or die affair because their motives are wrong. I don’t believe that up to 50% of our present leaders are there to serve. ‘’Our wrong attitude is also responsible for election violence because people want to win at all cost and for the wrong reasons. We must see politics and governance as platform for service to God and the people.’’

‘Christian pilgrims must be good ambassadors’ By Miriam Ndikanwu

NIGERIAN Christian Pilgrimage Commission (NCPC) has urged Christian pilgrims to be good ambassadors during the holy pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Executive Secretary NCPC, John Opara, spoke during the Southwest sensitisation forum in Lagos. He said Christian pilgrimage was a biblical injunction, noting that a visit to Jerusalem makes the Bible more real to the pilgrims. He commended the support of the Southwest governments, which, he said, sponsor about 35 percent of pilgrims annually, adding that Lagos has maintain the highest number of pilgrims. He said the agitation to stop government sponsorship was a wakeup call for Christians and churches to encourage member to embark on the exercise. “We should be able to sponsor people to pilgrimage as it is an injunction from God to us.” Lagos State Deputy Governor Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire urged individuals and religious bodies to support the sponsorship of pilgrims in the country. Orelope-Adefulire, who was represented at the forum by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mrs. Ranti Oduntola, urged Christians to continue to be tolerant of other faiths and live in harmony with them, noting that the socio-economic development that the nation craves will only happen in an atmosphere of peace. Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture Mr. Oyinlomo Danmole, urged pilgrims to take the sensitisation serious as it will help to equip them with challenges regarding sponsorship of pilgrims.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS

PDP lacks internal democracy, says Tukur ‘Nigerians’ll decide Jonathan’s eligibility in 2015’ From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

T •Tukur

HE National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, yesterday restated his position that lack of internal democracy in the party is responsible for the nation’s inability to enjoy a democratic culture. Tukur spoke in Abuja at the inauguration of the party’s 50member Advisory Committee, charged with advising him on how to run the party effectively. The chairman maintained that besides lack of internal democracy, the PDP also lacks openness, inclusiveness, fairness, respect as well as proper balance between the principles of fusion and separation of powers as they relate to oversight functions of governance in the party and the government. Tukur said: “We cannot reposition our party or be a lead-

HE Secretary of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Jibril Walid, yesterday said Nigerians will decide whether or not President Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to contest the 2015 election. The PDP chieftain described the debate on 2015 as diversionary, saying it is too early in the day for anyone to start talking about 2015, when those elected into offices have only spent one of their four-year term. Addressing reporters at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, Walid said the President and other elected office holders should be assessed on the basis of their performance after three years in office. He said: “Nigerians should wait until President Jonathan has done three quarters of his tenure, when the outcome of all his programmes and policies would have matured for them to objectively assess his tenure, to enable them measure his performance. “Let us measure him. Is he doing the right things? If Nigerians are satisfied with Jonathan, I think he should go for it. It’s akin to putting the cart before the horse, if we start talking about 2015 without assessing the performance of the incumbent office holders.” The PDP chieftain said the party is not considering sanctions against its members who are leading the debate on Jonathan’s 2015 ambition. But he advised them to be mindful of their utterances and how they go about their campaign. From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

ing force in deepening democratic culture in Nigeria, unless we effectively address

these problems and challenges. “The problems we face, tough enough on their own, are made more difficult by

our mindset. We believe that gentle persuasion is more effective than aggressive argumentation or disputatiousness; which is rather a very bad habit, making people often extremely disagreeable.” The PDP chairman regretted that after several years of military rule, the legislature at the three tiers of government still needs an enabling environment to develop a spine for effectively oversight functions. He urged politicians to put service above self, saying growing public awareness has emboldened the people to speak their minds and challenge unfavourable policies. Tukur canvassed the need to reduce the level of corruption through judicious application of public funds. He warned politicians of the dire consequences of continued militarisation of the polity, saying the trend ought to be reversed, if an effective democratic culture must be enthroned. Former Vice President Alex Ekwueme is the chairman of the council. Its members are: Chief Richard Akinjide, Chief Tony Anenih, Chief Solomon Lar, Chief Bode George, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, among others.

Fed Govt approves domestication of rights law •Approves N13b AfDB loan for Kaduna From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

HE Federal Government yesterday approved the domestication of Crimes against Humanity, War Crimes, Genocide and Related Offences Bill 2012. The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, broke the news in Abuja when he addressed reporters at the end of the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan. Maku spoke alongside the Minister of Works, Mr. Mike Onolememen. He said the domestication of the Rome Statute would tackle cases of impunity in the country. The minister noted that a special bill would be sent to the National Assembly on the decision of the FEC on the law. The bill was presented for ratification by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Muhammed Adoke (SAN). Maku said Nigeria is a signatory to the law but is yet to domesticate it. The minister noted that the domestication of the statute would address the security challenges in parts of the country, adding that the step would also demonstrate to the international community that the government is tackling insecurity and restoring sanity. The Federal Government yesterday approved the concessional loan of N13.9billion ($89million) from the African Development Fund (ADF), an affiliate of African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, to support the Kaduna State Government’s water and sanitation projects.

Widow, 54, excretes 58 wraps 54-YEAR-OLD widow, of cocaine

Mrs. Sekinatu Onitemi Adaba, has allegedly excreted 58 wraps of substance that tested positive to cocaine following her arrest by officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Port Harcourt International Airport. The suspect reportedly told officials of the agency that she was trafficking drugs for the first time. She said she was lured into the illicit business by an unnamed friend at a party in Lagos, following her husband’s death. Mrs Adaba was paraded yesterday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, by the airport’s NDLEA Commander, Mr. Olutekunbi Davies. The NDLEA chief alleged that the suspect was arrested on May 23 as she was about to board a Lufthansa Airline to London via Frankfurt, Germany. Davies alleged that Mrs Adaba swallowed the drugs and excreted them within three days of her arrest, under the

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

close watch of the agency’s officials. He said the suspect was taken to the Military Hospital in Port Harcourt, where an Xray scanner confirmed that she ingested 839 grammes of cocaine. Davies said: “The X-ray scanning machine, installed by the NDLEA at the Port Harcourt International Airport, was removed as a result of the ongoing construction works at the airport. “The machine was removed to prevent it from being damaged. But the absence of the machine at the airport will not stop our men from spotting and arresting drug peddlers that want to use the airport to transport hard drugs to other countries. “The machine will be re-installed after the completion of the ongoing renovation works at the airport. Drug traffickers are warned to stay away from the airport or be ready to face

Arbitration Commission launches new rules By Joseph Jibueze and Precious Igbonwelundu

T •Dan Masanin Kano, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule (left), greeting Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo (right) during an anniversary lecture to mark the governor’s first year in office in Gombe...yesterday. With them is the chairman of the Anniversary Organising Committee, Sen. Ajuji Waziri.

Akingbola, aide have case to answer, says court

USTICE Habeeb Abiru of a Lagos High Court, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday said the former Managing Director of Intercontinental Bank Plc (now Access Bank), Dr Erastus Akingbola, and his aide, Bayo Dada, have a case to answer. Justice Abiru was ruling in an application brought before the court by Mr. Deji Sasegbon (SAN), the counsel to Dr. Akingbola, in a “no case” submission. Akingbola and Dada are facing a theft charge of N47.1 billion belonging to the defunct bank, preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The court had fixed last Monday for the former bank chief to open his defence. But

By Adebisi Onanuga

Akingbola instead filed a “no case” submission. He argued that the prosecution has not proved a case of stealing against him and Dada. Counsel to the EFCC, Mr. Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), prayed the court to throw out the “no case” submission, saying the defendants have not done much to reasonably discredit the testimonies of the witnesses the anti-graft body brought in the matter. According to him, the witnesses have established a case of stealing by conversion against Akingbola and his aide. Ukala said: “The stealing is by conversion and it has been established. We have a prima facie case against the defendants

and they have to make an explanation. “I urge the court to discountenance the submissions and hold that in the circumstance, the prosecution has led a prima facie case in all the counts pending before your lordship.” Justice Abiru dismissed the defendants’ “no case” submission and ruled that the prosecution has established a prima facie case against them. He ruled that there is a connection between the prosecution’s evidence and the charges preferred against the defendants. Justice Abiru said: “At this stage, it is not for the court to look at the credibility of the evidence but to see whether a prima facie case has been established against the defendants.”

•Akingbola

He ordered the defence to call its witness. After the ruling, Akingbola called out his first witness, Ayoola Olabisi, a Financial and Project Consultant. Olabisi told the court that she worked with the bank for 19 years before her disengagement. Justice Abiru fixed June 20 for further hearing in the matter.

HE International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria (ICCN) yesterday launched the new global Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) rules to regulate the practice the country. The rules address areas of concern to users. These include the control of time and cost in arbitration, emergency arbitrator provisions, arbitration involving multiple parties and changes to facilitate handling of disputes arising under investment treaties and free trade agreements. ICCN Chairman Babatunde Savage said international trade and globalisation have created a greater need for close cooperation among nations to provide the machinery for the enforcement of arbitral awards arising from international commercial arbitration. He said: “The revision of these rules was concluded after a study spanning four years by a special task force comprising members from various national committees amongst other stakeholders. “The new rules will meet the needs of those involved in international trade and allow participants to learn the basics about different amicable dispute resolution techniques, taking into account cross-cultural awareness and legal considerations.” The Chairman, ICCN Commission on Arbitration, Prof Gabriel Olawoyin (SAN), noted that the rules would apply in resolving cross-border disputes at the ICC International Court of Arbitration. On why the court and rules are needed, the academic said parties involved in bilateral disagreements are often from different countries with diverse cultural and legal backgrounds. He said: “Regular courts are national institutions within each country and their rules and procedures will almost always be strange to foreigners. Secondly, business enterprises generally abhor publicity, of which negative ones can be damaging. “Thirdly, regular courts are generally more expensive and timeconsuming. Even where the monetary cost of arbitration turns out to be higher, the time saved in going to arbitration makes it a lot more attractive to the average entrepreneu r than the normal court.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS Groups endorse Ondo ACN governorship aspirant Abraham

IVE sub-ethnic, trade and women’s groups have expressed their support for Dr. Olusegun Abraham, a governorship aspirant of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the October 20 election in Ondo State. At a meeting with the aspirant at his campaign headquarters in Akure, the state capital, the groups said Abraham has the pedigree, honesty and consistency needed to take the state to a higher level. The head of the Hausa community in Akure, Malam Jibril Aminu, said his people have studied all the aspirants and settled for Abraham as the one with genuine sympathy for the masses. Aminu said Ondo State needs someone who can create jobs for the youths, adding that Abraham has such pedigree. He said: “Dr. Abraham has been a businessman with international connection and we want him to govern Ondo State, which we have been a part of for a long time. Our children were born in this state and we need them to have jobs. It is when you have industries that people can get jobs to survive.” A spokesman for the Egbira community, Mr. Lamidi Yakubu, said his people are supporting Abraham because of his popularity and accessibility. He said: “Some of my people have told me that they become happier when they see Abraham even though they were not happy because of some problems they might be having. We like Dr. Abraham and he can do good things for Ondo State.” The chairman of Democracy Defendant Group (DDG), Olanrewaju Ojo Agboola said members of the group in the 18 local government areas were supporting the aspirant.

Lagos ACN celebrates 13 years of progressive democracy

HE Lagos State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria has congratulated the state government, past administrations in the state and the residents for maximising the values of democracy in the past 13 years. The party noted that their support has lifted the state “from the doldrums and making it the driver of the new Nigeria and one of the most important mega cities in the world”. It urged the residents to continue their support for ACN “as the redoubtable vehicle for the real transformation of Nigeria to a significant nation in the comity of nations”. In a statement in Lagos by its Publicity Secretary, Joe Igbokwe, the party said Lagos has risen from the taunting of the fathers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who are “the architects of the ruinous waste laying facing Nigeria today”. The ACN said its government has, in the past 13 years, made Lagos the bastion of progress and growth in a country facing monumental decline. The party advises the present and incoming administrations in the state to continue improving the state till it becomes Africa’s first destination of choice for businesses and people outside the continent.

•Dr. Babalakin (right) with the Vice-Chairman, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Chief Kola Akinbami (middle) and Chairman, Organising Committee, Mrs. Yosola Popoola Awoniyi at the media briefing in Ikeja, Lagos...yesterday. PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

‘Govt didn’t fund construction of MMA2’

HE Chairman of BiCourtney Aviation Services Limited, Dr Wale Babalakin (SAN), yesterday said the Federal Government did not fund the construction of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Ikeja, Lagos. The businessman said his company constructed the aviation facility with the loan it secured from a consortium of financial institutions. He said it is not true that he was paid N30 billion for the contract. Babalakin addressed reporters in Lagos to mark the five years anniversary of the MMA2.

•Denies N30b contract for airport terminal By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

He said Bi-Courtney conducted the first successful Public Private Partnership (PPP) in Nigeria, adding that people tend to confuse an airport concession with a contract. According to him, within a few years, the company conceptualised and delivered the airport terminal, which has become a reference point in the nation’s aviation industry. Babalakin, however, said the inability of the government to comply with the terms of agreement under the pact has become a major disincentive to new investors in airport infrastructure in Nigeria. The businessman noted that though there is considerable decline in revenues – because of government’s refusal to abide by the terms of the concession - Bi-Courtney has been maintaining the facility to retain its frontline status. He said the law on the ten-

ure of the concession has not changed. The senior lawyer alleged that some interest groups in the aviation sector have failed to ensure that the government complies with the terms of the agreement in the concession. According to him, there would have been a monorail linking the domestic area to the international terminal, the construction of a power supply facility, the refurbishment of the international wing of the Lagos Airport, as well as the rebuilding of a new terminal at the domestic wing of the MMA, Ikeja, Lagos. Babalakin said the claim of non-remittance of funds to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is not correct because the Terminal Manager operates within the limits of the concession agreement. The businessman said FAAN wrote Bi-Courtney to propose the 35-year tenure clause in the agreement, add-

ing that this was documented. He said: “We are learning how to do PPP in Nigeria, which explains why we have not been able to get it right. There is also a perception problem, because some people were saying that I was given N30billion as contract sum to construct the terminal. This is not true. I did not receive a kobo from the government to build the terminal. As a concessionaire, we raised the money to construct the terminal, for which the banks assisted. This is a teething challenge in Nigeria. But we could have achieved more if the government had kept to the terms of the agreement. “The government has derailed from the vision of the agreement. That is why we are calling on all stakeholders to support us to achieve PPP in Nigeria. But we have found out that something is peculiar about the concept of PPP in Nigeria...”

Reps move against telecom masts he House of Represenin residential areas tatives has expressed its

displeasure on indiscriminate location of telecommunication masts and towers near residential areas. The lawmakers supported a bill for an Act to provide for the protection of humans from certain exposure to electromagnetic fields. The bill scaled second reading. The bill, sponsored by Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers), is advocating a stricter enforcement of laws on the location of telecommunication masts and electricity transmission lines. It notes that the location of such transmission lines near

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

homes is responsible for the emission of electromagnetic radiation, a leading cause of cancer. According to Chinda, the indiscriminate siting of the installations near human habitation has grave health implication on Nigerians. He said: “If you walk the streets of the country today, you will find several operations emitting dangerous electromagnetic substances. It is our responsibility, as the National Assembly, to make laws

to protect Nigerians. The Bill is not limited to communication masts; it also relates to electricity poles, which are located dangerously close to human habitation.” Peter Akpatason (ACN, Edo) noted that the bill is worth the overwhelming support it received because it is based on a proactive attempt to protect Nigerians from exposure to dangerous substances. Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, who presided on the deliberations, referred the Bill to the House Committee on Science and Technology for further legislative inputs.

Cleric urges Southwest governors to ensure good governance

HE outgoing Anglican Archbishop of Ondo Province and Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, the Most Reverend Samuel Adedayo Abe, has urged governors in the Southwest to lay good examples through good governance and positive impact on the lives of their people. Abe, who will soon retire at 70 years, spoke at the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, during a farewell visit to Governor Kayode Fayemi. He hailed the governor for his administration’s social security scheme for the aged, saying it is the first time in West African that senior citizens are paid monthly stipends. The cleric described the scheme as an example of how governors in the Southwest could lead the way for their counterparts in other parts of

the country. Abe urged Fayemi and his colleagues in the Southwest to always put the welfare of the people first in whatever they do. According to him, this will improve the standard of living of the electorate who elected them into office. Acknowledging that it is not easy to govern Ekiti, the cleric advised Fayemi to be focused in his efforts to turn around the fortunes of the state in the key sectors. He said the governor’s aides need to work as a team and give him positive advice to develop the state. The bishop urged the people to pray for the Fayemi administration for the state’s development, peace and tranquility.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

MSMEs remain the backbone of the development of any economy and the driving force of national growth. In Nigeria, there are currently over 17 million MSMEs in the country, employing over 31 million Nigerians. - Mr Olusegun Aganga, Minister of Trade and Investment

Naira falls on Europe debt crisis

NCC slams extra N2.5m daily fine on GSM firms

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

FTER a meeting that ended in deadlock with the executive officers of four sanctioned GSM service providers yesterday, the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) has slammed additional N2.5 million per day on the operators from May 26 for defaulting in payment of N1.17 billion fines. For rendering poor services to subscribers, NCC had on May 11 ordered MTN Nigeria and Etisalat Nigeria to pay N360 million fines each, Airtel Nigeria to pay N270 million while Globacom Nigeria was to pay N180 million. They were ordered to pay their fines not later than May 26 or risk a fresh round of punitive fines pegged at N2.5million per day if they defaulted. The meeting with the operators, where they sought for downward review of the fines without success yesterday, however, attracted additional fines from the NCC. NCC Director of Public Affairs Mr Tony Ojobo at a press conference in Abuja, yesterday declared that the operators would now pay N2.5million daily from May 26 as default penalty in addition to N1.17billion fines already imposed on them. Stressing that the NCC has refused the demands by the operators for a downward review, he said the commission would not enter into any further meeting with the operators until they pay the fines and the default penalty. He explained that the N1.17billion fines and the default penalty would be paid to NCC coffers and not to consumers, adding that there is difference between fines and compensation.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil - $123.6/barrel Cocoa - $2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold - $1,800/troy ounce Rubber - ¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion

RATES Inflation -12.6% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -14.18% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $34.6b CFA EUR £ $ ¥ SDR RIYAL

FOREX

0.2958 206.9 245 156.4 1.9179 241 40.472

•From left: IMT Manager, Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Ltd (NLNG) Mr Adegboyega Okunade; Manager Oil and Gas, SAP West Africa Mr Mike Okwechime; Manager, Maintenance and Sales, SAP West Africa Mr Stephane Colas and Managing Director, SAP West Africa Mr Richard Edet at the launch of the West African SAP User Group (WASUG), the first SAP user group in the West African region, at Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel,Victoria Island, Lagos ... yesterday

Security agencies quiz two SEC commissioners, seven others F OLLOWING alleged leakage of official documents at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), two commissioners and seven other employees have been quizzed by security agencies in the last few days. Another official was picked up yesterday for interrogation by security agents. The arrests have created tension in the commission whose activities are now grounded. Investigation by our correspondent revealed that the management of the SEC had been uncomfortable with the leakage of some of its sensitive documents during the row between it and the House of Representatives. It was also learnt that the management suspected that some of the documents were either stolen or retrieved from its data bank. A top director in the com-

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation, Abuja

mission was allegedly grilled for 16 hours. The SEC management was also said to have been piqued by the testimony of two of its commissioners against its Director-General, Ms Arunma Oteh. It could not be immediately ascertained at whose instance the security agencies had been acting. A top director, who spoke in confidence, said: “We have been under security siege. No fewer than nine employees, including two commissioners have been arrested since last Monday. The security agents searched their homes with guns as if they are armed robbers. “Yet, there is no specific allegation levelled against them other than alleged leak-

age of official documents during the face-off between SEC and the House of Representatives. “The sad aspect is that they have been picking officials at random based on suspicion or alleged disloyalty to the management. As I am talking to you today (Wednesday), a junior employee has just been arrested. Responding to a question, the source added: “How can a staff member be held for communication between the SEC and House Committee on Capital Market. All the letters exchanged by the two parties had been in public domain before the row. “Our morale is dampened as staff have become jittery because we do not know who next will be harassed. “What is worrisome is the position of the government in the saga. Why will any of-

ficial of the commission intimidate his or her staff? “There were internal issues raised about the management of SEC during the faceoff with the House Committee. But no one is addressing these challenges. Instead, they are pouncing on staff. “Activities at the commission have been at its lowest ebb since security agents have been picking our men.” It was gathered that the SEC management was shocked as to how a March 13 board memo and the details of expenditure incurred by Mrs Oteh in Transcorp Hilton leaked to the public. The memo from the Secretary to SEC, E. K. Aigbekaen to the Executive Commissioner (Finance and Administration), confirmed that the Board of SEC approved the controversial N30 million to the House Committee.

Fed Govt revises growth forecast to 6-7%

IGERIA’S growth forecast for this year has been revised down to six to seven per cent, from seven to eight per cent. Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala disclosed this yesterday at a briefing during an African Development Bank (AfDB) annual meeting in the Tanzanian city of Arusha. “We can do six to seven per cent this year. That would be very good,” she said, according to Reuters news. During its budget presentation for 2012, the Federal Government had forecast seven to eight per cent growth. Nigeria had recorded a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 10.3 per

cent, 10.6 per cent, 5.4 per cent, 6.2 per cent, 7 per cent, six per cent, seven per cent, 7.4 per cent, 7.98 per cent in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. The country’s economy had been projected to hit 7.8 per cent by the end of this year. Just last week the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said the partial removal of subsidy on petroleum prices, the concomitant strike and civil protest slowed economic growth to 6.17 per cent in the first quarter of the year. “Nigerian economy, when measured by the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on an aggregate basis, grew by 6.17 per cent in the first quarter of this year as against 7.13

per cent in the corresponding quarter of 2011,” said the bureau. An economist and Director-General, West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management, WAIFEM, Prof Akpan Ekpo, has also said the economy will not witness major economic transformation between now and 2015. He said major indices have shown that it would grow at a much slower pace. Ekpo, who was the keynote lecturer at the Wilson Badejo Foundation (WBF) Fifth Annual Lecture in Lagos, said: “Despite the various efforts put in place by the government to check the rising rate of poverty, the rate of unemployment is growing faster

than the growth of the economy, especially as the growth witnessed over the years have not contributed to curbing the unemployment situation.” Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, had warned that the remarkable growth recorded by the country in her GDP over the years is vulnerable as no concerted efforts are in place “to realising the growth”. Sanusi, who disclosed this when he received his “Silverbird Man of the Year award” in Lagos, noted that growth recorded from a natural phenomenon like vegetation or rain fed agricultural production or high oil prices is not sustainable.

HE naira depreciated against the dollar as higher Spanish and Italian borrowing costs suggested the euro region debt crisis is deepening, prompting some foreign investors to sell riskier assets. The naira weakened by 0.3 per cent to N159.7250 per dollar, its biggest decline on a closing basis since May 25, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. “The market is still witnessing a sell-off of securities, some motivated by the Eurozone crisis and some by inflation concern,”Sewa Wusu, a currency analyst at Lagos-based Sterling Capital Ltd., said by phone. Emerging-market stocks fell for the first time in five days as Spanish and Italian borrowing costs rose. Greece will hold an election next month that may determine whether it meets bailout conditions and remains in the euro. Nigerian inflation accelerated to 12.9 per cent in April, the fastest since October 2010, from 12.1 per cent in March, the National Bureau of Statistics said May 15. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sold $250 million at a foreign currency auction on May 28, the highest since February 15 sales. The regulator will hold the second of its twice-weekly foreign currency auction today.

Committee urges govt to budget N50b for metering From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

HE Committee on Public Inquiry on Metering in the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry has recommended that the Federal Government provide N50billion intervention fund to close metering gap. The committee Chairman Mr Bamidele Aturu disclosed this yesterday while submitting its report to the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). He noted that to clear the backlog of meters, the Federal Government should create a fund to cover all unmetered customers. Responding, Amadi said that the new tariff, which takes effect from tomorrow, will not be a windfall for the chief executive officers of the power Distribution Companies (DISCOs). He said the electricity crisis in the country is induced by governance and not technical. He added that metering is at the heart of viability of the industry, which will help to realise the Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO). The NERC boss, however, noted that the only financial target for the DISCOs is the MYTO, stressing that any other target being placed by any chief executive officer is illegal.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

BUSINESS NEWS

Senate queries PPPRA over 62.456m tons of fuel •KPMG to appear before panel today T

HERE was drama yesterday following what the Senate Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Appropriations and Finance described as a ‘huge discrepancy’ in the figures of fuel importation submitted to it by the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA). Chairman of the Joint Committee, Senator Magnus Abe stated this

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

when the Executive Secretary of the PPPRA Reginald Stanley appeared before the committee in Abuja. Abe also subpoenaed the Managing Partner of KPMG in Nigeria today for failing to heed the

Committee’s invitation to testify before it yesterday. Abe in a letter to KPMG said: “Consequent upon our letter dated May 23, 2012 requesting your appearance and your refusal to oblige, the Joint Committee hereby issues this subpoena.

Trustfund pension contributions hit N164.6b

RUSTFUND Pensions Plc has over N164 billion in its pension account as at April, this year, the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Helen Nneamaka Da-Souza has disclosed. She spoke yesterday at a one-day sensitisation/interactive session on the contributory pension scheme organised by the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NUTGTWN), in collaboration with Trustfund in Lagos. She said over 10,000 retirees are on its payroll. “Our performance records is on the rise daily with funds under our

By Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu

management rising from N42billion in 2006 to N164billion as at April 2012, with well over 9,496 pensioners on its monthly payroll receiving over N2.38billion per month,” she stated. Arguing that there are many instances where employers make deductions without remitting, the Trustfund’s boss called on labour, especially the NUTGTWN to be proactive in taking necessary actions, stressing: “The implication of the non-remittance of retirement deductions by employers would be that the affected workers may not

have the correct amount that is due to them.” He added: “Labour has a vital role to play in ensuring that the contributions of its members are safe and secured as the workers of today are the pensioners of tomorrow” Also speaking, the company’s Acting Head, Business Development and Marketing Maurice Ogar while presenting a paper on Trust Fund Pensions Plc management of contributory pensions scheme:The journey so far, said: “The total number of beneficiaries of the pension pay within the period, is 37,536, while 7,454 of textile workers have registered with the company as at February.”

“By powers conferred on the Committee by Section 88 and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, you are hereby commanded to appear before this Joint Committee on Thursday, May 31, 2012 at 10.00am in Conference Room 0.22 Senate New Building, National Assembly Complex, Abuja. “Failure to comply with this subpoena will lead to further measures available to the Committee to cause your appearance.” While the figures supplied by the PPPRA to the Committee showed that a total of 62.454 million tons of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) popularly called fuel was imported into the country from 2006 to 2011, the Committee said the earlier figures he presented to it were far different. A breakdown of the PPPRA figures show that 7.065 million tons of PMS were imported in 2006; 7.181 million tons in 2007; 9.125million tons in 2008; 10.019million tons in 2009; 12.767 million tons in 2010 and 16.306 million tons in 2011. The committee said the figures

were different from the records of fuel imports submitted to it by the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) during the six-year period which stood at 96.3623 million tons. Managing Director of NPA, Omar Suleiman in his submission to the committee said it received 11.456 million tons of PMS in 2006; 13.503million tons in 2007; 14.463million tons in 2008; 17.365million tons in 2009; 18.048million tons in 2010 and 21.527million tons in 2011. He, however, explained the figure represent total petroleum products imported from 2006 to 2011 as against PMS importation alone. Suleiman said he would present the records of the individual products imported to the committee before the close of its sitting. Senator Benedict Ayaade a member of the Committee sought to know from the PPPRA Executive Secretary why such a huge difference should exist. Stanley explained that the new figure he submitted to the committee was the one generated from the company’s data analyser. Ayaade interjected, saying the PPPRA boss should not try to be smart.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The seventh Lagos House of Assembly will be one year old on Monday. Today, a new chamber is being inaugurated to facilitate lawmaking. Correspondent OZIEGBE OKOEKI reflects on activities of the legislature since June 4, last year.

Taking stock at Lagos Assembly T

HE 7th Assembly of Lagos State will be one year on June 4. The Assembly was inaugurated by Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola on June 4, 2011 and is made up of 40 members: 22 returnees and 18 new members; all from the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN)). While inaugurating the House last year, Fashola charged the lawmakers to make good laws that will fast track development in the state, saying, “I anticipate that deliberations in the House will benefit from the experience of returning members and the training they have received which expectedly should translate to better service delivery to our people. Legislative work is a career nurtured by experience and passion to serve the common and public good rather than a desire to prosper individual interest. “Legislators were elected to represent certain geographical areas and constituents, which make them a link between government and the people, stressing that they actually enable society develop and prosper by the quality of laws that they make”, Fashola said. One year after, the House has taken some steps aimed at maintaining its reputation as the best State Assembly in the country and also living true to its motto of ‘Above the common standard of Excellence’. On Thursday 31, the House crowned whatever it has been able to do in the passage of impactful laws, motions and resolutions, aimed at bettering the lives of Lagosians with the inauguration of an ultra-modern legislative chamber which has been described as the best in the country. While addressing a press conference on the commissioning of the new chamber, chairman, House Committee on Information, Strategy, Security and Publicity, Hon. Segun Olulade said, apart from the pressing need for a more spacious and befitting legislative chamber, “there was also a very compelling need to ensure that more sophisticated information and communication facilities as well as more seats and offices are provided to meet the growing demands of contemporary legislative and administrative practices”. According to him, the newly com-

• New chamber of the Lagos State House of Assembly

pleted chamber had met all the needs and given the Assembly a new lease of life as well as a new face making the state to retain its status as a role model for other states’ Assembly. The gallery of the chamber is well equipped and can accommodate 2, 000 people; there is also a press gallery, place for the Assembly choir in case of public events and a special platform for the governor to present his budget. It also has a modern audio-visual setting and there are screens where people will see what is going on at plenary. The building also houses several committee rooms and Assembly canteen. The old chamber, which was built and commissioned in 1980 by the first executive government of the state, Alhaji Lateef Jakande has been converted into an auditorium and named after Jakande, ‘Lateef Jakande Auditorium’, and it will now be used for other activities like public hearings, meetings etc. It was to honour the elder statesman for being an astute administrator per excellence and revered elder statesman as well as for his outstanding services to the development of modern Lagos. However, the House has in the past one year passed about seven bills into laws and these includes; the Tenancy bill, aimed at regulating

rights and obligations under tenancy agreements and the relationship between landlords and tenants, including the procedure for the recovery of premises and for other connected purposes. Other bills passed are: 2012 Appropriation bill, Lagos State Law Reform Commission, Land Use Charge Amendment 2012, Lagos State Park and Garden Agency Law, all which have since been signed by the governor. The bills awaiting the consent of the governor include; Lagos High Court Amendment bill and Lagos State Guideline for Local Government. While the bills at the committee stage include; Lagos State Road Traffic bill, Lagos State Welfare bill, Lagos State Anti-Terrorism bill, Lagos State Oil and Gas bill, Cremation bill and a host of others. Quite a number of motions and resolutions have also been passed in the past one year to settle some pressing issues that could have otherwise led to crisis in the state either between individuals or between individuals and the state government. Some of these resolutions have gone a long way to ease tension in the state. The House was able to resolve the following issues based on the petition forwarded to it by interested

• Ikuforiji

parties; Lagos Butchers Association, Ikosi Fruit Market, Ladipo Spare Parts Market, Abila community land dispute, and cases of hoodlums turning recreation centres to hide out, the suspension of demolition of Onigbongbo Market among others. It has equally received a lot of protesters who came to complain about one issue or another and the protesters always leave with assurance that the House would look into their grievances and redress them. The Assembly has also continued with its capacity building programme for lawmakers and staff by organizing series of trainings both locally and internationally for them. The impact of these capacity

building programmes reflects even among the 18 new members at debate during plenary. No doubt it has raised the quality of debate on the floor and the volume of information available to the lawmakers. It has also maintained a very robust relationship with the executive throughout the year although the sacking of 788 striking doctors by the government at a time the House was making efforts to resolve the issue amicably angered some of the lawmakers as they felt slighted that the Executive did not wait for the outcome of their reconciliatory effort before sacking the doctors. Apart from this singular issue, which from all indication has been settled between both parties, relationship has been cordial. According to Olulade members are still doing their best at ensuring adequate representations, he promised that the House will meet the target of passing 80 bills, thereby surpassing the 60 bills record set by the 6th Assembly as assured by the Speaker during the inauguration of the 7th Assembly. Speaking on one year of the Assembly, Olulade, while giving kudos to the present lawmakers in the state, submitted that, “we are the 7-Assembly. All I know is that there is something about figure 7 that is unique. Figure No.7 has to do with completeness and progress. It signifies a number that is symbolic and showcases a mega star and a bright star. We have done a lot in terms of bills and resolution. Some are in the second reading stage, some passed into laws, while some are waiting for governor’s endorsement”, he said. However, the House had to contend with some distractions during the year because of a brush the Speaker, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji had with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a result of a petition against him, an issue that is still pending in court. For Lagos Assembly, it has been a year that further confirms its rating as a House of Excellence, this is attested to by the visitation of lawmakers from other states of the federation just to see how it is done in Lagos. Among such states are Sokoto and Bornu. Even lawmakers from Namibia have also visited to understudy the Assembly.

You are too slow, CPC caucus tells Yakowa From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

• Yakowa

HE caucus of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in the Kaduna State House of Assembly yesterday accused Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa of being too slow in the conception

and execution of projects that have direct impact on the people. Leader of the caucus and Minority Leader of the House, Dr. Shehu Usman Adamu, told a news conference at the Assembly complex that the wealth of experience of the governor was supposed to have served as a catalyst for the speedy development of the state, pointing out that the reverse seems to be the case. Adamu said “it appears that the government waited for the budget to be passed before going to work to plan what they want to do. But one expects that immediately they sent the budget to the House, they should start planning for what they want to do so that once the budget is passed, they will go to work.

“What we have seen in the last one year is invitation for tender. If they use one year to invite tender, how long will it take them to start the award of the contracts? We have spent 365 days already and what is left now is just three years”. The Minority Leader said further that “the problem of unemployment is on the increase in the country as a whole, but of great concern is that of Kaduna State. We are therefore calling on the state government to look into the problem of unemployment and put in place an effective machinery for arresting the situation. “The government should create a condusive and secured atmosphere and provide skill acquisition programmes for the teeming youths of the state and develop irrigation schemes that will provide

employment opportunities”. He asked the government to shift gear and speed up the process of executing developmental projects in the state with emphasis on education, health, water and sanitation as well as rural development. The CPC lawmakers expressed sadness at the level of corruption in the country, pointing out that democracy will not thrive side by side with corruption, which they alleged, is currently manifest in all facets of life in the country. They called on the federal government to bring to book all those indicted in the recent probes, especially, the fuel subsidy and pension probes. They also note the growing level of insecurity in the country, stressing that the security of lives and property is of paramount importance to the development of any

society and called on the government to tighten its belt and ensure peace and security in all parts of the country. In his reaction, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Reuben Buhari said that the governor was doing everything possible to ensure the development of the state. He said that the efforts of the governor is manifested in the number of projects either completed or ongoing across the state such as the fourth bridge and the roads being executed in the three senatorial zones. While expressing appreciation to the CPC caucus for its wise counsel, Buhari said that governor had already pledged to redouble his effort in developing of the state.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

The East-West Coastal Road •FG has to show more commitment to this all-important project

ONSIDERING its many advantages, we would have thought that work on the proposed East-West Coastal Road would have reached an appreciative level by now, more than eight years since the Niger Delta Regional Development Master Plan laid the blueprint for it. The slow pace of work on this important road speaks volume about the levity with which we treat money-spinning ventures such as the road in question. The latest we are hearing from the Federal Government is that the road has been stalled due to lack of funds. Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, presenting his ministry’s stewardship in Abuja, at the Ministerial Platform to mark this year’s National Democracy Day, expressed concern that paucity of funds may delay the actualisation of the master plan for the region.

‘We urge a rethink on this project and serious commitment to its actualisation, rather than the pious statement of completing it soon when there is nothing on ground to support this assertion. It is one road project that the entire country will feel its impact, given its multiplier effects on commerce, industry and the economy generally. The Jonathan administration will do well to see to the early completion of the project’

This is why we wonder what magic his ministry would perform to actualise the completion of the project anytime soon, given the bleak picture the minister himself painted concerning the release of funds to the ministry. It is pertinent to remind the Federal Government and indeed other stakeholders, that the road is crucial to redressing the region’s infrastructural deficit. Conceived to start from the Calabar-Ogoja Road, the East-West Road is to go through Ibeno in Akwa Ibom, connect Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Ondo, Ogun and end at Ibeju on the Lagos-Epe Expressway, connecting over 1,000 communities. Most of these communities, despite their great economic potential, are disconnected from mainstream economic activities. The road is therefore to link centres of economic activities with where raw materials and markets are located, provide fast links between sub-regional roads and growth poles as well as concentrate regional traffic on a few routes that would justify a viable rail transport. The road that is expected to have about 150 bridges, will also give direct access to waterways which are lying fallow now as well as encourage the establishment and growth of maritime industries. It will also boost internally generated revenue and reverse the rural-urban drift. Indeed, the UNDP had far back as 1998 reaffirmed the urgent need for this 704-kilometre road which, when completed, will cut travelling from Port Harcourt to Lagos to just three hours, as well as reduce the man-hours lost to travelling from the region to other sections of the country, thus

unlocking the vast tourism potential in the region. No doubt, a road of this magnitude will have its peculiar challenges which will also reflect in exacerbation of its cost. But then, its advantages far outweigh whatever temporary pains that may be encountered in the effort to construct it. For a Niger Delta region that has been crying over marginalisation for decades, despite its huge contribution to the country’s revenue base, the East-West Road will engender a sense of belonging and national integration. We will better appreciate the importance of such feeling when we remember that the restiveness in the region shut in about two million barrels of crude oil prior to the amnesty granted Niger Delta militants by the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua administration. Apart from this, the road will open up opportunities to the numerous unemployed youths, thereby reducing youth unemployment and consequently, youth militancy in the region. We were surprised that this road project did not form a major issue for discussion at the recently-held SouthSouth Summit organised by the BRACED states (Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo and Delta), the immediate beneficiaries of the project. We urge a rethink on this project and serious commitment to its actualisation, rather than the pious statement of completing it soon when there is nothing on ground to support this assertion. It is one road project that the entire country will feel its impact, given its multiplier effects on commerce, industry and the economy generally. The Jonathan administration will do well to see to the early completion of the project.

It’s violent language, stupid! •Use of violent language would not deepen the culture of democracy

T could well be the normal political hyperbole, but the umpteenth resort to battle metaphors, by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the federal ruling party, calls for serious concern in a democratic polity supposed to be driven by free but contesting ideas. At a function in Ilorin, Kwara State, Alhaji Abubakar Baraje, former acting PDP national chairman, was reported to have said his party would “demolish “all alliances and attempts by opposition parties to take power from it. “The gang-up came up in 2003; the PDP demolished the gang-up. It came up in 2007, it was demolished and in 2011, they were demolished,” he said, referring to failed efforts at opposition alliance against his party. “So, even if they are preparing for 2015, it is going to be a fruitless effort. The gang-up is nothing as far as PDP is concerned. It is only giving the PDP strength.” On its surface, Alhaji Baraje’s comment would appear fair political comment in a combative political milieu. If the opposition is “ganging up”, the PDP certainly has a right to do everything within the law to protect its integrity and maintain its electoral hegemony. But the operational phrase is “within the law”. If PDP has a right to lawfully fend off challenges and hold on to power, democracy being lawful and peaceful jostling for power through free elections, then the opposition parties too have a right to lawfully and legitimately band together to electorally topple it. But Alhaji Baraje’s use of “gang-up”, emotive and disapproving, to describe the

exercise, seems to have problems with the opposition parties‘ right under the law to freely associate in peaceful, legal and legitimate political endeavour. That is not acceptable. Even then, Alhaji Baraje’s disapproval is at worst passive, which really cannot be ruled out in political exchanges. But what cannot be tolerated is the continued resort to harsh, scary and threatening language for which the federal ruling party has earned fair notoriety. The poster boy of uncivil political utterances is Bode George’s patent of “capturing” opposition territory. The former “glamour boy” of Lagos politics shocked everyone when he declared his party was prepared to “capture” Lagos State, just as it did of the rest of the South West in 2003. Knowing the controversy that surrounded that year’s election, and given that the PDP South West states were, in performance, eons behind the Lagos State government back then, the import of that sinister statement was clear. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo would weigh in with his own unedifying contributions, saying the 2007 election was, for his party, “do-or-die”! Again, the import was clear and the former president wasted no time to walk his talk: the 2007 elections were the most brazenly rigged in Nigerian history; so bad that the prime beneficiary of the electoral loot, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, disavowed the process and promised electoral reforms. Of course, Vincent Ogbulafor, in his heyday as PDP national chairman, had vowed his party would rule the country

for 60 years! Unfortunately, this violent and unthinking speaking seems to be spreading, with Senator Femi Lanlehin vowing the other day that the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) would rule the South West for 100 years, in a clear parody of the Ogbulafor statement. That was unfortunate. Democracy is all about free contestation of ideas; and the electorate to reward the winning ideas with votes, after free and unfettered conviction. It should have no room for threatening languages or fear-inducing howls. Let the PDP guard its electoral hegemony as much as it legally could. Let the opposition too do everything within the law to democratically topple it from power. But let nobody talk as if democracy is physical war. That would be no way to deepen democratic values.

‘What cannot be tolerated is the continued resort to harsh, scary and threatening language for which the federal ruling party has earned fair notoriety. The poster boy of uncivil political utterances is Bode George’s patent of “capturing” opposition territory. The former “glamour boy” of Lagos politics shocked everyone when he declared his party was prepared to “capture” Lagos State, just as it did of the rest of the South West in 2003’

The politics of religion

HIRTEEN Roman Catholic dioceses and some Catholic-related groups scattered lawsuits across a dozen federal courts last week claiming that President Obama was violating their religious freedom by including contraceptives in basic health care coverage for female employees. It was a dramatic stunt, full of indignation but built on air. Mr. Obama’s contraception-coverage mandate specifically exempts houses of worship. If he had ordered all other organizations affiliated with a religion to pay for their employees’ contraception coverage, that policy could probably be justified under Supreme Court precedent, including a 1990 opinion by Justice Antonin Scalia. But that argument does not have to be made in court, because Mr. Obama very publicly backed down from his original position and gave those groups a way around the contraception-coverage requirement. Under the Constitution, churches and other religious organizations have total freedom to preach that contraception is sinful and rail against Mr. Obama for making it more readily available. But the First Amendment is not a license for religious entities to impose their dogma on society through the law. The vast majority of Americans do not agree with the Roman Catholic Church’s anti-contraception stance, including most American Catholic women. The First Amendment also does not exempt religious entities or individuals claiming a sincere religious objection from neutral laws of general applicability, a category the new contraception rule plainly fits. In 1990, Justice Scalia reminded us that making “the professed doctrines of religious belief superior to the law of the land” would mean allowing “every citizen to become a law unto himself.” In 1993, Congress required government actions that “substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion” to advance a compelling interest by the least restrictive means. The new contraceptive policy does that by promoting women’s health and autonomy. And there was no violation of religious exercise to begin with. After religious groups protested, the administration put the burden on insurance companies to provide free contraceptive coverage to women who work for religiously affiliated employers like hospitals or universities — with no employer involvement. This is a clear partisan play. The real threat to religious liberty comes from the effort to impose one church’s doctrine on everyone. – New York Times

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THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION

IR: We all know that our time in this world is limited, and that eventually all of us will end up underneath some sheet, never to wake up. And yet it is always a surprise when it happens to someone we know. It is like walking up the stairs to your bedroom in the dark, and thinking there is one more stair than there is. Your foot falls down, through the air, and there is a sickly moment of dark surprise as you try and readjust the way you thought of things – Lemony Snicket That indeed captured my mood when the bad news of auntie Ngozi Agbo’s sudden death hit me like a bomb blast. No sooner had I logged into Facebook around 11:00 on Monday night than my eyes caught a post by Vincent Nzemeke, a member of our pen family, Campuslife. It read: “RIP Ngozi Agbo, God be with you till we meet again”. I just could not believe my eyes. It immediately sent shivers down my spines; goose pimples began to suffuse my body; tears were welling up in my eyes; my heart was thumping with trepidation.

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Goodnight, Auntie Ngozi Agbo I needed someone to tell me I read the wrong thing. I queried loudly: No, Aunty Ngozi? It’s not possible!? Ngozi Agbo needs little or no introduction. Indeed, she was an amazing Amazon: tall and strong. She bestrode the journalism firmament like a colossus, armed with a tall dream and a strong determination. Her dream was to salvage the future of the Nigerian youths; to raise role models in a depraved society through the instrumentality of the media. So, she launched into her dream, believing passionately in its reality and efficacy. And then she hit the ground running. Over the years, her brainchild has immensely impacted positively on the lives of many young people. Mrs. Ngozi Nwozor-Agbo, the

initiator, and editor before her death, of the famed Campuslife in The Nation was truly a trail blazer; a pacesetter, and really a record breaker! She was a mentor, a teacher, a source of inspiration, a friend, a change-agent, an enabler of dreams? Just like yesterday, she started Campuslife, proudly sponsored by Coca-Cola Nigeria plc and Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Plc. Today, on many campuses, Campuslife, nay The Nation has become a household name. Many students have now cultivated the wholesome habit of reading a newspaper, courtesy of Campuslife. Campuslife is now many a student’s delight as they look forward to every Thursday to read

the news from various campuses. To put it mildly, her initiative is a giant leap for mankind, if I am to borrow the words of the first man on the moon, Neil Armstrong. Until I started reading The Nation in 2008, I did not know her from Adam. I happened to meet her for the first time in March 2009 at a seminar held in Lagos at Hallifield schools, Maryland, organized by Mrs. Rosemary Onyebigwa, CEO of Selective Insightz Limited. She was one of the facilitators and I enjoyed her speech titled “Attitude: the Success Determinant”. I was glad to meet with the woman who had been publishing my articles. She was very accommodating and selfeffacing. Aunty Ngozi literally boosted my desire to continue writing for

UNILAG: What manner of name change?

IR: Students of University of Lagos slept on May 28 as UNILAG students only to wake up the next morning to hear the saddening news of their change of name to Moshood Abiola University. The Democracy Day that ought to be a day of sober reflection for Nigerians became another day in UNILAG campus. Students of the institution have described the action as ill timed and unacceptable, because it came at a time when the institution is mourning its departed Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe. If the president is sensitive enough, he ought to know that UNILAG is not an institution, whose name can be changed anyhow. It is an institution that was created by an Act of parliament, thus, the president is not constitutionally allowed to change the name without recourse to the National Assembly. Thus, the presi-

dent is being undemocratic while claiming to honour a man who sacrificed his life for democracy. The change of identity will not only affect the prestige of the institution, it will also make it more of regional than its national outlook. It will also cause problem for some organization that are partnering with the institution on its current name, those organizations will have to face the rigour of changing documents, thereby possibly leading to loss of interest in the partnership. Moreover, the institution is just planning to celebrate its 50 years of existence. The President should know that it is improper for an institution to celebrate 50 years anniversary with a forced identity. The scenario is like telling a 50-year-old man preparing for his golden jubilee to go and do change of name. In fact, the implications of the change of name are enormous; it was even shocking to understand that the

President took the decision without consultation with the authority, students and stakeholders of the institution. Moreover, renaming an institution is not the trending priority of the people. What Nigerians want is a display of pure democracy with its attendant benefits, rather than resolving to lip service. Thus, the renaming of the institution is a product of misplaced priority. The President ought to demonstrate democracy and the rule of law by restoring Justice Isa Ayo Salami (SAN) as the president of the Court of Appeal rather than myopically renaming an institution. When does renaming an institution become a symbol of democracy? Though it is not a crime to honor the late sage, yet, the President ought to have had a thorough thinking before the decision. Why can’t he honour Chief MKO Abiola by renaming one of the newly established universities after him? This

action is regrettably yet another presidential blunder. The Senate of the institution has just declared a two-week suspension of academic activities due to this crisis. How can the educational sector of the country develop when academic activities are frequently interrupted? The best thing for the President in a time like this is to listen to the voice of the UNILAG community if he is genuinely committed to democracy and the rule of law; prompt action should be taken to put the situation under control so as to enable academic activities to return to the institution. The President should remember that the youth are the future of this country. • Simon Godwin, Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos.

Campuslife. She often told me, “Femi, you write well, but I have issues with the pictures you send”. I had to improvise since I did not own a camera then. I remember particularly the feature story I did about the failed promise of the Yar’Adua-led government to generate 6000 megawatts in 2009, she had to tell me to resend the pictures. She will eternally be etched in my memory because she made positive indelible impact on me. I cannot forget in hurry her editing of parts of my yet-to-be-published manuscript; her contribution will no doubt be acknowledged. Since its inception, Campuslife has provided a platform for students in higher institutions to make their voice heard; it has given many, like me, an avenue to sharpen their writing skills. Campuslife is, unarguably, the first of its kind in the history of the Nigerian press as far as campus journalism or student reporting is concerned. Students are given a rare opportunity to practice journalism, as it were, irrespective of their disciplines. Aunty Ngozi was able to make Campuslife what it is today, not because she was the editor, but because she was able to get along with young people. She related and interacted with us as a mentor. Her weekly column “Pushing Out” spoke volumes about her passion towards the betterment of the future of the Nigerian youths. She did a wonderful job co-coordinating Campuslife with over 100 correspondents across the nation. Though Aunty Ngozi is no more here, but her influence will forever remain with us. As Samuel Butler said; “To die completely is to be forgotten; he who dies and is not forgotten lives forever”. We cannot forget her in a hurry; she lives in our hearts because she made inroads into our lives; her impact was immeasurable. Adieu, Aunty Ngozi! • ‘Femi Asu, A graduate of Accounting, University of Ado-Ekiti

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION

I owe you - 1

CANNOT express enough the sunshine in my heart over my birthday celebrations and it would be base ingratitude if I fail to acknowledge all the wonderful people and institutions that contributed to my immeasurable joy. I did not know I have so many friends until now. I was most delighted by the expression of goodwill and the gifts that came from the high, the mighty and even from my students. Even as I write this piece, I’m still getting gifts from people and the ones I appreciate most is from the young students who contribute maybe 50 naira each to bake me a cake. In their own little way, they are serving God by serving man and he is a rewarder of those who diligently serve Him and I have no doubt that he would reward everybody who has extended their hands of fellowship to me. I obviously cannot mention everybody in a piece like this, especially when it’s not an advertorial, but we must give honour to whom honour is due. The governor of my state, Dr Kayode Fayemi strained himself to be present, but because of public engagement which lasted longer than expected, he was not able to be present, but his expression of goodwill and felicitation through advertorials in newspapers and giving of gifts is greatly appreciated. The Oonirinsa, His Royal Majesty Oba Okunola Sijuade, Olubuse II was gracious enough to return from London a day before my birthday in order to solidarise with me. I had invited both him and the Alaafin of Oyo His Royal Majesty Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III and I had hoped that both of them would attend and show the way of unity of the Yoruba people but scheduling problem prevented the Alaafin from coming. Until Ife and Oyo speak with the same voice, unity among the Yoruba is a forlorn hope. Chief Emeka Anyaoku apart from being the retired Commonwealth Secretary General, the highest international position attained by any living Nigerian and currently chairman of the Presidential Advisory Council on International Relations (PACIR) since the year 2000 and who is also a member of the Council of Kingmakers in Awka, the ‘Ndichi’ flew in from London for the purpose of attending my birthday celebration. I want to thank Chief Anyaoku for the wonderful things he said about me. It’s nice to hear good things said about you when you are alive because a good name is better than gold and silver. Prof. Jibril Aminu, a cerebral Physician and Cardiologist, former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, former Vice Chancellor of University of Maiduguri, former Minister of Petroleum, former Minis-

S I followed PresidentGoodluck Jonathan’s Democracy Day broadcast on television, I kept wondering what would be the highpoint. Will he make a policy statement or will the broadcast end on an insignificant note? This was my thinking until he came to the end of the broadcast and dropped a bombshell: the renaming of University of Lagos (UNILAG) as Moshood Abiola University. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Neither was I happy nor sad about the news. I was in a state of flux. UNILAG now MKO University, God be praised! Isn't that what many have been campaigning for over the years? That Abiola be immortalised. And now that it has been given on a platter of gold, shouldn't we all be happy? But something kept telling me that something is wrong somewhere. This sneak feeling persisted all day long. There is no debate over whether Abiola should be immortalised. The late business mogul deserves all the honour the nation can give him for laying the foundation for an enduring democracy. The president himself admitted this much in his Democracy Day speech. If Abiola truly deserves this honour why then are we not all praising the president for doing the right thing? Dr Jonathan

ter of Education, Former Ambassador to the United States of America, former distinguished Senator of Nigeria, Chancellor of Benue State University also came in spite of his busy schedule and stayed for hours for the reception and spoke glowingly about my modest contribution to education and diplomacy. My brother, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi whom I have known since 1954 when we were children graciously attended the long church service and as a diligent son of a cleric, did not complain for the long service, neither did he miss the other part of the celebration, the luncheon. I was delighted to hear him say I contributed to his success as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and I remember those days when we used to assemble at the Institute to drill with questions some of the South African soldiers captured by the MPLA cadres during the long and bitter liberation war in Angola. I also remember in 1988, this was years after Prof. Akinyemi had served as Director-General Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and as Minister of External Affairs, when I visited Angola along with Ambassador Zubair Kazaure from External Affairs ministry, and we were taken to Quito Cuanavalle where the South African racist forces met their waterloo in the struggle for Angola. Some of us have taken risk on behalf of Nigeria. That part of my life I hope I would one day write about. While working with Gen. Ike Wachukwu as his Special Adviser when he was Minister of External Affairs, Nigeria was given to asserting its power in our region, in Southern Africa, but nearer home in Equatorial Guinea where South African forces were ensconced a few minutes by air from Nigeria and from the vital economic resources of Nigeria’s oil fields. We again took risk in the national interest. Ike Wachukwu was not able to come to my birthday celebration because he was in Paris for business. He was represented by his brother Michael and sister Ngozi. My thanks go to Ambassador Dr. Oladapo Fafowora who wrote a biographical sketch on me at the back of The Nation newspaper for my birthday and who attended both the service and the reception in my honour. As a skilled organist, I’m sure he must have enjoyed the various hymns. I cannot thank enough Ambassador Akporode Clark; Ambassador Segun Onanaye; my Uncle-in-law who graciously attended my celebration. Present also were Professor Kayode Oyediran, former Vice-chancellor of the University of Ibadan; Prof. Zacharias Debo Adeyewa, Vice-chancellor of the Redeemer’s University. The Vice-chancellor of Ekiti State University Prof. Dipo

Aina, a first class scholar and distinguished academic came with his equally cerebral wife Prof. (Mrs) Aina, who is currently Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences Obafemi Awolowo University. Ekiti State University was heavily represented by members of Council, Deans of Colleges, the Registrar, the Bursar, the Librarian and other management staff of the university. The Vice-Chancellor Jide on behalf of the UniOsuntokun versity also put in the newspapers advertorials in my honour. The Alumni Association of the University bought me a present in spite of the fact that they only know me from a distance. The former Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Akin Oyebode also came with gifts. One of the most brilliant Nigerians that I know and an old boy of Christ’s School Prof. J.G.F Esan, Provost of the College of Medicine of EKSU came with another brilliant brother and Dean of Basic Medical Sciences Prof. Yinka Afolayan.

‘I also remember in 1988, this was years after Prof. Akinyemi had served as Director-General Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and as Minister of External Affairs, when I visited Angola along with Ambassador Zubair Kazaure from External Affairs ministry, and we were taken to Quito Cuanavalle where the South African racist forces met their waterloo in the struggle for Angola’

Immortalising Abiola is not earning our praise because he has left undone what he should do at a time like this. Immortalising Abiola though good is not the major issue before the nation now. The Abiola we all know is likely to turn in his grave if he hears news of his immortalisation in the 13th year of the nation's return to democratic rule and at a time nothing is working in the country. Is it the immortalisation of Abiola that the nation needs now? The answer is no. Jonaathan and his men know what the nation needs now, but they don't have what it takes to provide it. What we need is quality leadership. The kind of leadership that Abiola would have provided if he had been declared winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. If Abiola had been president, the nation may not be where it is today. Our lot as a nation and as a people would have improved beyond our imagination. They thought they were undoing Abiola by not allowing him to be president, but see where we are today. They stuck to the annulment of Abiola’s election because they wanted things to be business as usual. If they were with their

‘No doubt, Nigerians will be happy that Abiola has, at last, been immortalised, but they will be more happier if things are working the way they should in the country’

faculties, they would have known that by their action, they deprived the nation of a leader who could have saved us from our present shame. Abiola was charismatic and charming; the kind of leader that emerges once in a while in a nation’s life. We had an opportunity to make good with Abiola but we frittered it away. We are today saddled with a lacklustre leader. A leader, who from all indications, does not have a clue on how to take Nigeria to the next level. We need a thinker as a leader; a leader who can hold his own in the gathering of leaders and not one who is easily swayed by primordial sentiments. What Jonathan should concentrate on now is how to take Nigeria out of the woods. How can he improve the lot of the common man? How can he get the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to be up and doing? How can he get the industries that left Nigeria because of the unconducive business climate to come back? How can he make the education sector work so that many Nigerians will stop sending their children to Ghana, of all places, to school? How can he banish poverty from the land? Abiola promised that under him, Nigerians will say “farewell to poverty” and he was on his way to do that. But he was not allowed to achieve his aim by those who thought that if he did he would become a big threat to them. Hope they are seeing where they have led us today. Jonathan can dust up the Abiola blueprint

on banishing poverty and use it to turn things around in the country, if he truly wishes to immortalise Abiola. Don't get me wrong. I am not saying that Abiola does not deserve a monument being named after him. He very well deserves it. UT the president should not leave the problems at hand only to engage in immortalising a man who whether he likes it or not has already achieved immortality. Will naming UNILAG after Abiola make the nation's myriad problems go away? The answer is no. The president should devote more time and energy to solving the power, security and socio-economic problems first and then every other thing will follow. As things are now, the president is overwhelmed by these problems, so he is looking for an escape route. By immortalising Abiola, he seems to be banking on winning the support of the Southwest, the home base of the late politician, but he should know that the people are too sophisticated to be hoodwinked by such ephemeral acts. Even at that, Abiola won a pan-Nigerian mandate. Whatever is done for him should reflect this national mandate. No doubt, Nigerians will be happy that Abiola has, at last, been immortalised, but they will be more happier if things are working the way they should in the country. For now, the nation appears rudderless. We have a president only in name and not in deed. The president should not divert

Lawal Ogienagbon lawal.ogienagbon@thenationonlineng.net

attention from the problems presently facing us. He should take the lead in tackling them headlong. He is our president and I pray that he succeeds because his success is that of us all as a nation. But he alone will carry the shame of his failure. That is the burden of leadership. Those surrounding him will not tell him the truth now until the unexpected happens. Then we will start hearing stories of how they advised him but he didn't listen to them. It is good to immortalise Abiola but it is better to leave a lasting legacy as a president, who touched the lives of the people. This is the kind of president Abiola would have been if he had ruled. Immortalising him will not make Jonathan a great leader, it will only get him cheap political points. As Abiola told me in the dream, ''te... te... tell him to... to... to... face the nation's problems and leave immortali...li...lising me for now''. I believe, this is the only way to SMS ONLY: 08099400204 keep hope alive and say farewell to poverty.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION

NTIL the release of the report of Farouk Lawan Ad-hoc Committee of fuel subsidy regime a few weeks back, most Nigerians expected very little from our National Assembly (NASS). There had been cynicism because for 13 years, they served none but themselves .Their case was not helped by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor’s leak that NASS members corner about 25% of our recurrent expenditure, making them the highest paid lawmakers in the world. Their only remarkable achievement within this period was the derailment of Obasanjo’s third term agenda. Even in doing this their role was duplicitous. We have the former Senate President Ken Nnamani and the Lower House minority chief whip, Femi Gbajabiamila to thank for this. They have sworn on their honour that Obasanjo spent a whopping N10 billion (50 million for each legislator) on the failed project. And since we have no reason to disbelieve them, it means there were also dishonorable law makers who accepted Obasanjo’s bribe but failed to fulfill their own part of the bargain. And in that case, Obasanjo’s narrative would in my view be very apt. I am not Obasanjo’s fan. In any case the man doesn’t need anyone to fight his wars. He is a man with a heart of steel who fights any war with all his might. He has said nothing embarrasses him. And If his current enemies are in doubt they should consult Mama Iyabo, Obasanjo’s dearest wife, his beloved son, or even Abubakar Atiku his Vice president – who had thought he could weaken Obasanjo by relishing us with stories of how he, on his behalf, frittered away taxpayers money on cars for Obasanjo’s women. What I have however found intriguing since Obasanjo apposite naming of many of those he rigged into office in 2003 and 2007 as ‘rogues and criminals’ during the fourth Academy for Entrepreneurial Studies’ Annual National conference in Lagos, a little over a week ago, is the hypocrisy of those pretending to tell us who Obasanjo is, and those pretending to know the legislators better than Obasanjo who for eight years, treated the legislature as an extension of the executive from where ‘Ghana must go’ bags preceded every major decision of the lawmakers. Obasanjo has already defined himself. We already know Obasanjo works only for Obasanjo. We know he is not a Yoruba leader but a Nigerian leader since that is the only guarantee one can become a President after

T a lecture to celebrate the 50th birthday of Leadership publisher, Sam-Nda Isaiah, General T.Y Danjuma is reported to have singled out Borno, Jigawa and Kano as states that have ‘failed’ in the North. His comment understandably drew a lot of ire from Borno and Jigawa states and by the next day, T.Y Danjuma had dropped Jigawa from his ‘failed’ list and replaced it with Yobe. As a respected elder statesman, the retired General might have simply intended to draw attention to the appalling security situation in the North and especially in the three states that he mentioned. Even so, his use of the expression ‘failed’ is clearly a malapropos since, as Mahmud Jega has noted in his Monday column in the Daily Trust, the concept of a failed state “refers to nation states, and not the administrative units we call states here in Nigeria. It is difficult to apply the stated criteria for failed states on segments of a country, and not to its national authority”. Given Danjuma’s rather poor understanding of a failed state, therefore, neither Governor Kashim Shettima nor Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso not to talk of Governor Ibrahim Gaidam (who came in as an afterthought in the Danjuma list) should lose much sleep over the retired General’s comments. These governors have pretty much to do than waste their time joining issues over this. Still, it is appropriate to clarify some issues raised in a Leadership article entitled ‘Failed States: Yes, General T.Y Danjuma, You’re Right About Yobe’ published in the paper’s Wednesday May 16, 2012 edition. The writer focussed on recent spate of robberies in Yobe State and the Potiskum Cattle Market attack to drag the name of the state government in the mud, arguing that when one of the robbers who first attacked the cattle market was apprehended and killed by the marketers, “the state government did not deem it necessary to respond immediately by beefing up security at the cattle market”. Such an argument only emanates from someone who is either blissfully ignorant of the concept of security or has a mind-set fixed on seeing nothing good in the Yobe State government. For starters, the Federal Government, and not state governments, has a primary responsibility for security. As Mahmud Jega noted, it has direct control over the army,

Obasanjo Vs National Assembly losing one’s ward election. ‘Awo was a tribalist, ‘who could not achieve what he had been fighting for since Obasanjo was a bare footed secondary school student’. Of course, this, Obasanjo claimed he ‘got on a platter of gold’. MKO Abiola ‘was not the messiah Nigeria was waiting for’. Babangida and Atiku Abubakar were not fit to be Nigerian President but the terminally sick late Yar’Adua was. He has also defined himself by ensuring EFCC during his reign was more of an attack dog unleashed on political foes. And of course by his alleged acquisition of over N200m shares of TRANSCORP, despite the expressed altruistic motive of reproducing Nigerian variant of the ‘Asian Tigers’ But our deep knowledge of Obasanjo does not vitiate his justifiable anger against the legislators and his successors. Nasir El-Rufai, a former minister and member of his kitchen cabinet recently told us Obasanjo awarded contracts to build seven new power stations and constructed the Lagos Kano dual track standard gauge railway line. Both were derailed by these PDP buccaneers whose fraudulent elections he supervised in 2007. The $50 billion foreign reserve he left in 2007 has been reduced to $35b. In the same vein, what we now have left of the $27b excess crude account he bequeathed is only paltry $1b. He imposed hardship on Nigerians by his illadvised frittering away of between $12 and $20 billion as payment for unverifiable debt to the greedy Paris club. But today, our total debt portfolio stands at $42b as against $3b foreign

debt he left behind. While ‘rogues and criminals’ took advantage of Yar’Adua’s illness and also looted the nation’s treasury through dubious fuel subsidy, the National Assembly members looked the other way after illegal constituency contracts which were hardly executed or badly implemented. Obasanjo has an apt name for them. I think I will rather err on the side Obasanjo. I will concede it to him that he can identify the foot prints of ‘rogues and criminals’ even on stone. He has been a prisoner, a President and Commander-in-chief. The EFCC was his brainchild. During his era, PDP’s suspected criminals moved from prison to the hallowed chamber of the Senate. He supervised the fraudulent election of the now disgraced former PDP governors of Edo, Ondo, Ekiti and Osun states who the courts have appropriately criminalized. I am amazed some still doubt Obasanjo’s competence in identifying criminals and rogues. After all, even the fuming Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, CNPP, after reminding us that Obasanjo presided ‘ over the most rogue regime ever in the country, where the nation’s treasury was blatantly looted, with reckless withdrawal of funds from the treasury without appropriation.’, has also conceded the patent for identifying rogues and criminals to Obasanjo. “It can be said actually’, they finally conceded as a sign of self abnegation, ‘that Chief Obasanjo’s manipulation and subversion of the electoral process, denied Nigerians the right to elect people of

T.Y Danjuma wrong about Yobe By Babangida Jaba police, civil defence, immigrations, customs, etc and these forces take their orders directly from the Federal Government. Second, Potiskum Local Government area is currently under a state of emergency, which President Goodluck Jonathan declared nearly five months ago. It follows that President Jonathan and the Federal Government have a direct and primary responsibility of all security arrangement in the area and securing not just the Potiskum Cattle Market but the entire town as well. So, when robbers came in broad daylight and attacked the market with impunity while soldiers and police formations were less than 500 meters away, questions should be directed at the federal and not the Yobe State government. And questions are being asked even now - by Potiskum residents, by cattle marketers but also by anyone with enough conscience. How could such an attack happen for two hours when security agents were only a few meters away from the scene? Cattle dealers are also asking why no senior figure from the Federal Government has yet visited to condole and sympathise with them. The Yobe State government, under the focussed leadership of Governor Gaidam, again as reported in the press, responded to the cattle market attack with breath-taking immediacy. The governor visited the scene soon after the attack and directed that all injured persons be given free medical treatment. In addition to free medical treatment, each of the 29 hospitalized victims, as reported by VOA Hausa, got N200,000 to support their families while they recuperate in hospital. And after the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) concluded assessment of the losses incurred, Governor Ibrahim Gaidam approved over N50 million as compensation to victims, including the families of those who died during the attack. All these have been widely reported in both national and international media. Along with the attack on the Potiskum Cattle Market was the spate of armed robberies which bedevilled Yobe recently. As people in the state

know, however, these robberies have significantly gone down thanks to the capture, by the JTF, of a gang of notorious armed bandits in the state capital recently. Robberies are not a new phenomenon and no section of the country is immune to them. The payment of some local government salaries in cash therefore couldn’t have given rise to them. The truth is that all senior staffs of the local governments in Yobe State collect their salaries in the banks. Like everywhere else in the country, only a handful of junior staff, such as gardeners or guardsmen, collect their salaries on the table. In addition, there are many local government headquarters without banks or cash centers and it will be a burden on the junior staff if they are forced to travel long distances just to queue up to collect their salaries from ATM or teller machines. The writer is also wrong on Yunusari and Fune Local Governments. There were attempts by robbers during salary payments in these two local government councils but both were not successful. In the case of Damagum (Fune), members of the JTF were able to track and kill two of the robbers and arrest the reminder. But this is just by the way. In a federal system, the local government is a tier of government and every local government can decide how it deals with issues like staff salaries. Let’s therefore return to the more fundamental issue of security. Why does T.Y Danjuma believe that only sections of the country have failed and not the country itself? I assume that he is very close to President Goodluck Jonathan as someone who headed his National Advisory Council. So, what kind of advice was he giving the President? Since the Boko Haram insurgency escalated following the killing of the sect’s leader in 2009, President Jonathan has not found time to visit Borno and Yobe states. In other climes, the Commander-in-Chief is the Comforter-in-Chief, and in times of crisis or disaster, the President becomes the national wellspring of comfort and reassurance. Not so is our own President. When the Boko Haram carried out a horrendous attack on the Yobe State capital on

their choice, hence entry of rogues into the legislature.” Isn’t that exactly what Obasanjo said? That Obasanjo, who was poor before military Generals moved him from prison to presidential palace, is now rich is irrelevant. At least no one is asking for the source of wealth Obasanjo’s alleged sponsors. But may I remind our colleagues who pretend not to know what soldiers do after conquering a territory? Cart away from pillaged land, gold, wealth and women . From Generals Babangida, Abacha through Abdul Salami and Obasanjo, they did this unchallenged for 21 years using military state administrators and later BPE to sell our national patrimony to their cronies. Since the birth of the Fourth republic, nearly all past Senate Presidents and Speakers have had inglorious ends not unrelated to financial scams. Dimeji Bankole was chased around in the night and arrested like a criminal. The current speaker, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal contributed to the travails of Bankole as a member of the defunct House that recommended taking of illegal bank loans to satisfy greed of members. Obasanjo’s lynch mob should separate the issue he raised from his personality. Government after all has added ‘rogues and criminals’ to its lexicon. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Information, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe’s appeal to Obasanjo ‘to help the National Assembly by naming those that he knows in the National Assembly as either rogues or criminals,’ is welcome sober response. But if anything the lower house by its action has further vindicated Obasanjo. The very day the House denounced Obasanjo, it also denounced ‘the arraignment of the Chairman, House Committee on Capital Market, Herman Hembe and his Deputy, Chris Azubogu, by the EFCC’. Both allegedly confessed to obtaining Business Class flight ticket from Security Exchange Commission (SEC) for a trip never made.

‘Awo was a tribalist, ‘who could not achieve what he had been fighting for since Obasanjo was a bare footed secondary school student’. Of course, this, Obasanjo claimed he ‘got on a platter of gold’. November 4, 2011 when Governor Gaidam was away performing the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, no official of the Federal Government (and certainly not the President himself) visited Yobe. At a time when the nation’s security agencies under the President have failed, the people of Yobe and elsewhere in the troubled part of the North expected that their President would stand up with them – with words, with deeds, in body and soul but had he? And came close the Potiskum Cattle Market attack. It was horrendous and heinous in every possible way. Why can’t General T.Y Danjuma advise President Jonathan to at least send the Vice President since he is not willing to come himself to sympathise with the victims? Right now the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association is threatening to stop the cattle business if no one from the presidency visited. But the President visited Madalla when a church was bombed. He also visited Kano when the city came under attack. All those attacks were criminal and condemnable and every man of conscience will join in speaking and praying against them. But in selecting to visit Madalla and Kano, and not Borno and Yobe states where similar and more heinous attacks have taken place, the President has shown himself either as a Christian President or as a PDP President (given that Kano is a PDP State while Borno and Yobe are controlled by the opposition ANPP). I shudder to think of my President as sectional or partisan. But this is what many people here in Borno and Yobe states are thinking of him. Now, if Borno and Yobe State have ‘failed’, won’t the President intervene to make them work again? Won’t he use the resources of the powerful federal government to bring succour to them? And why can’t someone like T.Y Danjuma advice the President to do so; to turn the table around and engage with the hapless people of these states and show that he is their President too? Right now people who don’t know or who are in the know but are claiming ignorance are busy apportioning blames and chasing shadows. But if our security challenges in the country are ever to be addressed, we have to start being honest with ourselves. We have to work together as a nation and the President must show himself as a leader truly engaged in problem-solving. • Jaba writes from Gashua Yobe State

THE NATION

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

THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

INSIDE

Sofoluwe goes home tomorrow

email:- education@thenationonlineng.com

Emotions ran high on Tuesday when President Goodluck Jonathan renamed the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Moshood Abiola University. Staff, students and alumni are kicking against the decision, ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA and TOSIN ADESILE report.

The remains of Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe the ViceChancellor of the University of Lagos will be buried tomorrow at the Vault and Gardens, Ikoyi, Lagos. This ends a week-long event held to see off the 10th ViceChancellor of the university, who passed on on May 12.

-Page 27

Teen solves Newton's 300year-old riddle An Indianborn teenager has won a research award for solving a mathematical problem first posed by Sir Isaac Newton more than 300 years ago that has baffled mathematicians ever since. -Page 28

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

‘Nothing to celebrate’ WHEN on Tuesday, the three tiers of government rolled out the drums to celebrate Democracy Day, many, especially students, felt there was nothing to cheer. -Page 29

• Students of UNILAG protesting .... on Tuesday

PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

Row over renaming of UNILAG F

OR years, many have been clamouring for the immortalisation of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, the businessman politician, who died in unclear circumstances in 1998. Abiola, the presumed winner of the 1993 presidential election, was detained by the late Gen Sani Abacha in 1994 while fighting for his mandate. He took to the trenches following the annulment of the election by former military president Gen Ibrahim Babangida. The election was conducted on June 12, 1993, which many have been campaigning should be Democracy Day and not May 29. But former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the first to assume the exalted office when the nation returned to democratic rule on May 29, 1999 did not buy such suggestions. So, the nation became stuck with May 29 as Democratic Day. Last Tuesday during the celebration of this year's Democracy Day, President Goodluck Jonathan honoured Abiola by renaming the university of Lagos (UNILAG) after him. The honour sparked protests and criticisms. UNILAG students took to the street, protesting the action. Some students blocked the university's gate while others headed to town, carrying palm

fronds in condemnation of the government's action. There was traffic snarl as the protesters marched through Akoka, Yaba and the adjoining streets, singing and waving tree branches.The Press Club of UNILAG also kicked against the government's action. Why the protest over an action which many have been campaigning for? Is it that the protesters don’t want Abiola immortalised?Investigations showed that the reactions are against what was described as government's “hasty decision.” The government was accused of not consulting “widely” before renaming the school. Dr Ahmed Rufai of the Faculty of Education, Lagos State University

(LASU) sees the protest as “more of outpouring of emotions.” "I think the reactions are more of emotions. The students and teachers seem to be more comfortable with the name 'UNILAG' because it's more of pride being a lecturer or student, or the university's alumnus." A former member of the UNILAG Governing Council Prof Harrison Dele Longe described government’s action as “absolutely improper,” adding: "It wasn't an intelligent idea at all and I think the president surrounds himself with people who don't give him good advice.” The professor of computer science said the government should have announced its plan and thereafter seek people's opinions and not the other way round.

‘Rather than the sudden announcement, I expect the President to have said the Federal Government is contemplating changing the name of the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University Lagos. Consultations are still ongoing and we shall get back to Nigerians on any decision we arrived at’

He said: “Rather than the sudden announcement, I expect the President to have said the Federal Government is contemplating changing the name of the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University Lagos. Consultations are still ongoing and we shall get back to Nigerians on any decision we arrived at. “I believe the Council was not consulted on this and I won't be disappointed if UNILAG takes the government to court. Besides, I believe the university was established by an Act of Parliament; so, government cannot change the name overnight except it goes back to the National Assembly, which has the power. For me, I would prefer government names May 29 as Moshood Abiola Day rather than naming a university after him." Dr Olubunmi Ajibade of the Mass Communication Department berated the government for ignoring due process. "We know this university belongs to the Federal Government, and the owner can decide to change the name as it wills. But what I do not like is the Federal Government’s manner of waking up suddenly to rename the university. Since the University of Lagos was established by an Act of • Continued on page 26

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION EKSU FILE

VC gets award THE Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) has conferred the Award of Good Governance in university education on the ViceChancellor (VC) of Ekiti State University Prof Patrick Oladipo Aina at the Teachers House, Ibadan, Oyo State. The VC was adjudged a good administrator whose performances have attracted all within a short period. In a citation read by Mr Steve Akadiri, the Public Relations Secretary of the Oyo State chapter of the institute, Aina was lauded as an astute academic whose brilliance also led to the successful celebrations of the university's 30th anniversary. The CIIN observed that under Aina, the university embarked on a Biometric Data Capture of staff and students to meet up with today's realities in accurate record keeping with electronic access. In his response, the VC said the award was an inspiration to him and the university to continue with the good work.

Women to assist VC THE EKSU chapter of the National Association of Women in Academic (NAWAC) has pledged to support the vision of the administration in turning the university to a world-class. The President of the association Dr Modupe Asaolu made the pledge during a visit of the NAWAC executive to the VC. She said the association was established to enhance academic and economic status of members who are mainly lecturers. Meanwhile, the group has congratulated Prof Olugbenga Aribisala on his appointment as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics). Aribisala thanked the association members for their gesture, informing them that the VC recognised the contributions and importance of women in bringing development to the university and the society.

Commissioner pledges support for farm THE Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources in Ekiti State Mr Babajide Arowosafe has pledged the assistance of his ministry in the expansion and commercialisation of the EKSU farm. During a visit to the institution, Arowosafe noted that the state government was interested in supporting the institution's vision to have a farm that could serve both the academic community and Ekiti people to improve the university's Internally Revenue Generation. The VC said the university was eager to partner with the government in making the farm a spring board for Revenue Generation and Research.

Transport committee coming TO stem the tide of road accidents among staff and students on the Ado-Ekiti -Iworoko/EKSU Road, a committee has been set up to monitor and maintain orderly traffic of vehicles. The VC revealed this during an interactive session with the Federal Road Safety Commission Sector Commander, Mr R.T. Kunven, and Special Marshals from Units 2 and 8 of the FRSC in Ado - Ekiti. The VC noted that the solution to the problem of motor accidents was of two dimensions: "One from the university and the other from the Federal Road Safety Commission."

•Security officers on standby to forestall mayhem

Row over renaming of UNILAG • Continued from page 25

Parliament, then it should have followed due process before any decision.” A former Commissioner for Education in Lagos Prof Kunle Lawal also kicked against the decision. "Why UNILAG?" Lawal asked rhetorically. "Why not any of the nine new universities the Federal Government just created or even the University of Abuja? UNILAG has established itself over the years with linkages with local and international bodies and institutions. You will never find universities like Harvard or Cambridge being renamed overnight. I support the immortalisation of Abiola but I think there are better ways to do

that." Provost, College of Culture and Humanities, Osun State University, Prof Siyan Oyeweso, also shared the same sentiment. He said: "This issue transcends UNILAG or the Federal Government itself. Government should have made wider consultations, particularly with the Yoruba leadership, the alumni and other Nigerians before the decision but I don't think that was done. I believe the University of Lagos should retain its name because it has made its name and also because of its linkages both locally and internationally. “You will not find Harvard or Cambridge University being renamed all of a sudden because their beauty lies in what the universities have accomplished with their

names.” The Chairman, Non-Academic State Union and allied institutions (NASU) UNILAG Chapter, Comrade Adekola Adetomiwa), also accused the Federal Government of not consultating before its action. "Did he (President Jonathan) sample opinions of people across board?" Adetomiwa asked. "Did the government consult with the stakeholders in the university? We are not under military rule; this is a democracy. UNILAG is too important to be named merely after anybody. Why did the government of United Kingdom not name the University of London after former Prime Minister Winston Churchill because he was their hero? Let him (president) go and find another monument."

UNILAG Faculty of Arts Students Association President Tunji Owonikoko also questioned the rationale behind the renaming. "This is the greatest mistake of the century. President Jonathan should tell us who advised him over that decision. As students, we have decided to resist this with the last drop of our blood. We are all proud to be associated with the name UNILAG, tell Mr President we are comfortable," Owonikoko told our reporter on phone. National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Comrade Dauda Mohammed urged the protesters to seek more constitutional means of fighting their cause rather than embarking on a protest that might be hijacked by urchins and opportunists. "There is nothing wrong with the President's decision because he alone has the right to approve or reverse that decision. But I will advise my colleagues to seek more legal ways of fighting their cause. The protest, I'm afraid, may be hijacked by hoodlums to loot and destroy or some politicians might penetrate it for their selfish ends." Earlier, the university's Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raheem Bello, advised students against violent protest because of the ongoing funeral rites for the late Vice-Chancellor, Prof Babatunde Sofoluwe. "While the protest is ongoing, students are advised to go about their normal classes peacefully, while this is resolved without allowing the Federal Government to close the school and re-open with the new name being forced on the management and students. “Protest registers have since been opened in halls of residence and faculties. After being signed, the registers will be sent to the president and the National Assembly.”

Exam Ethics exonerates EFCC chief from exam fraud

OLLOWING its investigations, the Exam Ethics Marshals International (EEMI), has exonerated Mr Tunde Ogunsakin, Chief Operations Officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from allegations of perpetrating examination malpractice. A statement by Mr Ike Onyechere, Chairman of the body, which seeks to entrench integrity in the administration of examinations in Nigerian institutions, noted that his group found claims by a national daily that Ogunsakin, who enrolled to study law at the University of Abuja, hired a student to write one of his law exams for him to be false. Onyechere said the group became involved when it was bombarded with requests to investigate the issue following Ogunsakin's promotion to a Commissioner of Police in March as well as his appointment as Head of Special Fraud Unit of the Nigerian Police Force. The statement reads: "We have followed the story since it broke in 2009 and now feel compelled to issue this statement. The summary of our findings is that the whole saga bears the in prints of the prevailing pattern of attempts to destroy the character of courageous Police officers involved in investigation of corruption cases by agents of corruption. A Court of competent jurisdiction and various investigative panels arrived at the same conclusion. Available facts buttress the conclusion. "When the story broke, the University of Abuja set up a panel under the Chairmanship of Prof

• Pupils of Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Ogun State fixing faulty handsets and computer laptops during the school’s vocation day held at the school premises By Adegunle Olugbamila

Chukwuma Oye to investigate the allegation. Mr Ogunsakin successfully defended himself before the panel and was exonerated. The student at the centre of the allegation admitted both orally and in writing that Ogunsakin never approached him to write any examination on his behalf. He was, according to his statement, approached by another person. After Ogunsakin's exoneration by the insitution's Misconduct Panel, the university took the decision to set up another panel on 31st August 2010 to re-investigate the matter. Mr. Ogunsakin objected to the kangaroo nature of the second panel and decided to take the case to the court of law. On 4th November 2010, he filed a suit in an Abuja high court (Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/767/ 2010) against the University of Abuja and members of the second Panel. On June 29, 2011, the court gave judgment in favour of Mr Ogunsakin and ruled that the action of the insitution in setting up a second panel was illegal, ultra vires, null and void.

“At last ... what is good for the militant is good, or better, for the brilliant!”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION Tomorrow, the remains of Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe, the 10th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, who passed on Saturday, May 12, at 62 will be buried. ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA reports on his one week rites of his passage.

UNILAG VC Sofoluwe goes home tomorrow

HE remains of Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos will be buried tomorrow at the Vault and Gardens, Ikoyi, Lagos. This ends a week-long event held to see off the 10th Vice-Chancellor of the university, who passed on on May 12. Sofoluwe, 62, died at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi Araba after he was rushed from the university's health centre after he collapsed in his office. A statement issued by the university’s Information Unit stated that Sofoluwe suffered multiple heart attacks. "They have confirmed to us that the cause of his death was essentially heart attack and that this heart attack started while he was in his personal office at the Department of Computer Science at the Faculty of Science. The information we got and which we have confirmed is that he called his doctor (Dr Charles Ebezeakoh) who works in our medical centre) on phone, himself." "Ebezeakoh brought the ambulance through which the late VC was conveyed to our medical centre but because they wanted to give him a befitting medical attention, he was taken to Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH). On arrival at LUTH, he was resuscitated and stabilised. At that point, he was transferred to the high dependency unit at Ward E8. Unfortunately, while he was recuperating, he suffered the second heart attack and at that point, all efforts to resuscitate him failed and he passed on," said Prof. Babatunde Alo, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics and Research), during at a briefing to announce Sofoluwe's death. Sofoluwe was the third ViceChancellor who died in active service in the country. He said the week-long activities would climaxed with the lying-instate at the university's Multipurpose Hall tomorrow morning. Alo, who is the chairman of the burial

• Student of UNILAG during the candlelight procession

committee, added that this would be followed by a funeral service at the All Saints' Church, Yaba before the interment. A service of songs was held on Tuesday at the Main Auditorium. Similarly, a lying-in-state was held yesterday at the university’s Multi purpose Hall followed by a special Senate session at the Senate Chamber at noon, and a wake at 5pm at the Multipurpose hall. Sofoluwe was born on April 15, 1950. He attended CMS Grammar School, Lagos. He proceeded to the University of Lagos where he got his first degree in Computer Science in 1973. He later had his Masters and PhD at the Edinburgh University in Scotland.He joined the UNILAG in 1976 as a graduate assistant. He rose through the ranks. On January 30, 2010, he took over from Prof Tolu Odugbemi. as vice-chancellor Following Sofoluwe's demise however, the university had been thrown into mourning with tributes flowing from students, the academic community, government and friends. The three condolences registers placed at the Senate Building, the

Julius Berger Lecture Hall, and the Vice-Chancellor's Lodge have be were filled with emotional messages that tell of Sofoluwe's magnanimity, academic prowess, kindness and leadership quality and some of his last moments. On Tuesday, May 15, students of UNILAG staged a candlelight procession for their late leader at the university premises. The procession started from the university’s Senate. It touched on some key areas of the university and ending up where it began. Sofoluwe made his last appearance in the media on Tuesday, May 8, at the university’s Senate Chamber, where he announced plans for the university’s Golden Jubilee. As usual, Sofoluwe was in his elements, looking radiant and healthy among over 50 reporters in attendance and showing no signs of a leader that would soon bid farewell to the world. If anything, Sofoluwe would be remembered for his digital revolution in UNILAG. On his assumption office, he had outlined his vision, one of which was to make the university one of the best 100 in the world.

"As a professor of Computer Science, I shall deploy my knowledge of the discipline in the way university is run and managed. As a professional computer scientist, I know that facts and statistics are very important. I shall break the university (a system) into subsystems. I shall systematically look into the existing subsystems of the university over specific periods with a view to empowering them for better performance. Our bursary will be fully computerised. Our registry and administration will be paperless; our libraries will be e-libraries ...," Sofoluwe said. Less than two years in the saddle, Sofoluwe strived to attain his dream of 'e-UNILAG', a concept which became synonymous with him. He entered into a deal with Computer Warehouse Group, a computer manufacturing outfit. Currently, an industrial park for development of software is gradually emerging in the institution. It is anticipated that the innovation, when completed, would afford lecturers and students to build computers. Also, Sofoluwe also embarked on an Electronic Document Manage-

Sofoluwe ‘was a workaholic’

Prof Harrison Dele Longe, a former dean of Students Affairs of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), is one of the closest friends of the late Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe. In this interview with MEDINAT KANABE, Longe speaks on his relationship with the late vice chancellor and his unfulfilled dreams for UNILAG, among other issues.

OULD you remember one or two unforgettable experiences you had Sofoluwe before he

died? Well, they are several. I remember an occasion I saw a shirt he wore and I asked "who made this for you?". He asked if I liked it and I said, ‘it is nice on you.’ The following day I got a parcel with the shirt on it. That is 'Toks' (meaning Tokunbo as Prof Sofoluwe was fondly called by his colleagues) for you. And what about when it comes to "oh, I want to buy this", if he hears that you are complaining about money, he will assist you. He would say, I heard you are complaining about money. He was so generous. He was a giver. He gave all and gave all the time. Did he ever tell you of his recent plans? Whatever he wanted to do was in the open. His main concern was to ensure

that the university activities are accessible through the internet. He wanted to make the university an e-university. Describe Sofoluwe's relationship with staff, colleagues and students? He was the only VC I knew who could walk around the university community without his aides. He was an epitome of humility. He was humility personified. He was a quiet achiever. He wouldn't make a noise about anything. He never got angry about anything. He had a way of cooling your temper when you are upset. What about his routine? He arrived in his office from 4am everyday and would not leave by 8pm or 9pm. He worked on Saturdays and anytime he was called upon. His philosophy He usually said in the Yoruba dialect esa ma se dada (always do good). That was his philosophy. He was here to teach us some

lessons and he did. How best do you think the university community and government can honour him? Sofoluwe deserves all the right attention and I think the UNILAG community and the government knows what to do. I am using present tense because it hasn't dawned on me that he is gone. What advice do you have for Sofoluwe's successor? Workers should learn to go on vacations. The university work can really take you over. I know this because I was a Dean of Students Affairs for five years, and I never had a break. Workers should always go for check-ups. And the VC was different from others. His office was always open to all, so he was seeing people throughout the day. Sometimes your strength can become your weakness and your weakness your strength.

• Prof Longe

ment Systems (EDUME) that moved the university up from its paper and file documentation system into edocumentation. Some of the projects he also commissioned include multi-million naira terratem base equipment for the Department of Geosciences; construction of a water factory by Wema Bank and another ultramodern English Language Laboratory in the Faculty of Arts. Others include securing the reconstruction of the commercial bus terminus by the alumni association; upgrading the university's power system and the internet services, among others. During his last appearance with journalists media on that fateful Tuesday, Sofoluwe gladly announced that he had received a cheque of N1 billion from NIMASA to build a marine institute in the university. UNILAG Pro-Chancellor, Deacon Gamaliel Onosode, in address during the Minister of Education visits to the university two weeks ago, said the only befitting way the university should reciprocate Sofoluwe's achievements was to remained avowed to his legacies.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION

Unity School teachers return to NUT

USHED by the need to run under the cover of a strong professional body that can fight its cause, Unity School teachers in the country have returned to the Nigerian Union of Teachers, (NUT) even as the body denied association of any kind with Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASSUS). The return of the teachers in Unity Schools to NUT was hinged on the alleged deceits by the Federal Government

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

that teachers in Unity Schools were civil servants, hence they are being denied payments and allowances paid to civil servants in the country. Co-ordinator of Unity School teachers Mr Emeka Okonta in Abuja, said they had to return to their professional body which understands the needs of teachers and also fight their

cause proudly. Okonta said: "We, the teachers in Federal Government colleges, have joined the NUT because we are professional teachers". He recalled that the government made them to believe that the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria ( ASCSN) was the best they could belong to, adding that whenever it got to salary implementation, and the 13th month payment, their

members were denied on the guise that they were civil servants and not teachers. He said: "They (government) told us to register with the Teachers Registration Council, which we did, but when it comes to teachers' salary implementation, we were told that we were civil servants and no longer teachers. When the Federal Government in 2010, approved what upholds to all

CMS old boy donates to alma mater

S part of activities to celebrate its 153rd anniversary, old boys of the CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos has built hostels, refurbished the science block, clock tower, world electronic teaching facilities, and teachers' residents, among others in the 24-acre school compound. The facility donated by one Mr Modupe Johnson, a 1963set, is a four-storey building on two sides, with an elevator to convey the pupils up and down without the rigour of mounting the staircase. Modupe also paid for the refurbishment of the threestorey science building, which has all science laboratories and is equipped with chemicals most ideal for ideal for any experiment during teaching. In addition, there is also an ongoing construction of teachers' residence very close to the hostel courtesy of the old boys. The school’s Principal, Mr Tunde Oduwole, who also took reporters on tour the

By Medinat Kanabe

facilities said the hostel, which has a 160KVA generator installed, would be powered by a dedicated transformer. He said the school is planning to upgrade its facilities and extend its activities globally in its efforts to become one of the best in Africa. "We have two cleverboards (a digital board that can be easily linked to the satellite) here in the school but we still need more. The clever board is an interactive teaching device, which makes teaching easier. It can record everything taught even the hand written one. We want to go into satellite teaching so that our students can learn from teachers from all over the world as they sit here in their classrooms." He said the initiative was brought to them by an alumnus, Dele Benson, and was donated by the 1960 set to celebrate their 50 years of leaving school. The cleverboard, Oduwole

stressed, has positively impacted on the pupils, noting that it was evident in their West Africa Senior Secondary Certificate Exam (WASSCE) results where their pupils performed brilliantly with many claiming distinctions in their subjects. The tower clock, bought from Clockomatic, Belgium was donated by Mr Folarin Coker and dedicated to one of the old principals and former Bishop of Lagos, the Late Seth Irunsewe Kale, who was Coker's principal in the 19431954 set. Mr Oduwole said: "The clock costs £10,000 and has been designed to, at every hour tune the first line of our school anthem. The sound will go as far as the University of Lagos (UNILAG). It will be regulated to stop tuning at mid night so that people can sleep and begin again by 6.00am." All structural designs was done by Busola Awojobi, an engineer and another old pupil of the school, he added.

•A science labouratory, one of the completed projects

OOU VC advises freshers to work hard

HE Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State has matriculated about 4,000 freshers for the 2011/ 2012 academic session. Addressing the matriculants, the OOU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof Wale Are Olaitan admonished the students to "consider themselves lucky luck to have weathered the storm of admission and, therefore, seize the opportunity wisely to develop themselves to face the challenges of making life better for our society in terms of research and development." A statement by the OOU PRO Sam Oyeleye quoted the VC as reaffirming the university's commitment to enhancing knowledge and

By Ramat Musa

ensuring that it was passed across through research on one hand, and providing the required services to the community for cultural, social and economic development on the other. Olaitan stressed that the institution is "guided by the need to set academic standards by using academic contents in quality and quantity to meet the National U n i v e r s i t i e s Commission(NUC)'s benchmarks. He said the university is committed to recruiting competent, experienced and dedicated personnel, both teaching and non-teaching, to train the students with the aim of preparing them for the

challenges of the times that included the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) and the five cardinal programmes of the Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, as well as Vision 20:2020. "It is, therefore, not surprising that the NUC has certified and accredited all the 69 programmes in the university," Olaitan added. He admitted that though the institution had faced quite a lot of challenges in recent past such as rationalisation of programmes, outstanding results and students' registration, noting: "but we have faced these challenges squarely and to the glory of God, the university is poised to overcome and surmount them.”

civil servants and just when we thought our time had come, teachers in federal unity colleges were not paid. "Again, when President Goodluck Jonathan approved 13th months for teachers in 2011, and our colleagues in civil service were being paid N120, 000 each but when it got to our turn, they paid teachers N5, 000 each. It was at that point we decided that enough is enough. "We have come back to

NUT and we will inform other of our colleagues that they should not be afraid to return to NUT. We will let them know that the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) is not a stakeholder in education. Therefore, there is no way ASCSN can fight their cause. Let them come back to where they truly belong." Responding the NUT President, Comrade Michael Olukoya, said the body warmly welcomed them back."

Teen solves Newton's 300-year-old riddle

•Ray

N Indian-born teenager has won a research award for solving a mathematical problem first posed by Sir Isaac Newton more than 300 years ago that has baffled mathematicians ever since. The solution devised by Shouryya Ray, 16, makes it possible to calculate the path of a projectile under gravity and subject to air resistance. Shouryya, who lives in Dresden, eastern Germany,

came up with the solutions to this and a second mathematical riddle while working on a school project. He is being hailed as a genius in the German press, but attributes his achievement to "curiosity and schoolboy naivety." "When it was explained to us that the problems had no solutions, I thought to myself: well, there's no harm in trying," he said. The problems he resolved are from the field of dynamics. The first, dealing with the movement of projectiles through the air, was posed by Newton in the 17th century. The second, which relates to the collision of a body with a wall, was posed in the 19th century. Only partial solutions had been discovered up to now, requiring simplified assumptions or calculations

by computer. Shouryya's elegant solutions could contribute to greater precision in fields such as ballistics. Shouryya's family moved to Germany when he was 12 after his father Subhashis Ray, an engineer, got a job at a technical college. Shouryya spoke no German when he arrived but has mastered the language and is due to take the German equivalent of Alevels this week, two years ahead of his peers. "Ray's accomplishment is impressive and we are particularly proud of his background as it highlights the achievements of migrants across language and cultural barriers," said the Youth Research Foundation, which gave him the award. Courtesy: The Times, London

Sunday

For freshers, a dream come true

Memories of Ngozi Agbo

Page 36

Page 30

*CAMPUSES *NEWS *PEOPLE *KUDOS& KNOCKS *GRANTS

THE NATION

CAMPUS LIFE 0805-450-3104 email: ladycampus@yahoo.com THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

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

email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

Last Tuesday, the three tiers of government celebrated Democracy Day, but across the campuses, students were not upbeat about the ceremony. They told OLASUNKANMI AROWOLO (200-Level Mass Communication, Lagos State University) that there is no cause for celebration, 13 years after the return to democracy.

•Students protesting after the removal fuel subsidy

‘Nothing to celebrate about our democracy’ W

HEN on Tuesday, the three tiers of government rolled out the drums to celebrate Democracy Day, many, especially students, felt there was nothing to cheer. The leaders have done nothing to improve the lot of the citizens, they reasoned. The burgeoning number of youths with university degrees but without jobs, is not helping matters. Yearly, higher institutions churn out graduates who have little or no hope of getting jobs. Besides, darkness stalks the land, forcing many industries to seek conducive environment to operate. The human development index is nil; the people live in poverty. So, students may not be blamed for being disenchanted. “Since the coming of the present republic in 1999, the country has been moving from one turbulent year to the other, with our leaders

‘If democracy is about the welfare of the people, then our leaders have no reason not to give us the necessary amenities, such as potable water, good roads and stable power supply’ losing focus and the followers growing unpatriotic. We have enjoyed nothing, except the unfulfilled promises our leaders dole out yearly,” said Sulaimon Mojeed-Sanni, a Corps member serving in Kwara State. To him, democracy is not working. “What I don’t know is whether our own brand of democracy is different from what other countries practise,” he said. “If democracy is about the welfare of the people, then our leaders have no reason not to

give us the necessary amenities, such as potable water, good roads and stable power supply,” Sulaiman said. Kayode Badmus, 400-Level Political Science, Lagos State University (LASU) said: We have gained as citizens of this country in the last 13 years that democracy returned to Nigeria. Corruption has riddled all the facets of our national life - from the judiciary, which is supposed to be independent, to the security agencies that mow down citizens daily. A particu-

lar political party has been in office for over a decade and we don’t have anything to show for it, except a steady dwindling in the country’s image among the comity of nations. If we cannot find our way out of this mess, I am afraid we may never see the country again.” However, Tosin Adesile, 400-Level Mass Communication, University of Lagos (UNILAG), has a different view: “If you give birth to a child, will the child start walking immediately? No. We need to give the child every support to stand and walk. A journey of a thousand mile begins with the first step. But I believe we will get there one day. Though our leaders are corrupt but there are still people who can be trusted with our destiny. What we need to do is to give such people a chance to hold the mantle of leadership that will cater for our wellbeing, he said.” •Continued on page 30

•Corps member launches audio-visual language package P32•CAMPUSLIFE reporter is editor of the year- P33

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE

Leaders of the new media

HE CAMPUSLIFE Correspondents’ Workshop, the ninth in the series, held last weekend. It is our flagship training event for our committed reporters from campuses across the nation. Since inception in April, 2008, the workshop has been jointly sponsored by the Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited and the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited. Our theme, this time, was “The New Media: Responsibilities, Opportunities and Challenges for the Campus Journalist”. Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, Online Editor of this paper, and Mrs. Boma Ozobia, President of the Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association (CLA), were our main speakers. And they did great justice to the subject. While Otufodunrin spoke on the concept, opportunities and challenges of the new media (also called online journalism), Ozobia brought out the legal implications for every user thereof. Apart from the participants’ testimony of the revealing sessions, I, with my close to 10years sojourn as a journalist, scribbled excitedly at new knowledge and opportunities I wasn’t even aware of before now. Thus, it was time well spent. By now, all the excitement has died down. The 50 students who came are all back on their campuses. However, I am under no illusion that each of them will sit down, go through their notes carefully and, as the Bible exhorts in the book of Joshua “observe to do according to all that is written on it”. Sadly, humans do not always do what is right for them. It really baffles me as to why that is so;

OR years, she held sway on this page, doing what she knew how to do best. Within a short time, she became a darling of students across campuses. Last Monday, the bell tolled for Ngozi Agbo, our CAMPUSLIFE Editor, who eight days earlier was with some of her correspondents from the campuses at their ninth workshop in Lagos. To say that they were shocked when they heard about her death will be putting it mildly. They were simply devastated. Yet in their grief, they have been paying tributes to the woman they called “aunty”. Samson Ademola, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) A loss is it. Too obvious to be denied. I tried to look away but I cannot. Adieu Aunty Ngozi Nwozor-Agbo. We will miss you, but your work speaks on Comfort Ogon, 200-Level Political Science, University of Calabar UNICAL) No! No! No! Please, tell me I’m dreaming. My Editor is not... tell me Mrs. Ngozi Nwozor-Agbor is not dead. Not after I promised to host her in Calabar for a carnival. The carnival is yet to come but she is no more. It is hard to believe. What does the future hold for us, CAMPUSLIFE writers? How can we exist without our mother; a woman of inestimable value? Death, why? Vincent Nzemeke, graduate of Mass Communication, Delta State University (DELSU) Lekan Otufodunrin found a diamond. Sam Omatseye, Sunday Oguntola, Joe Agbro, Simon Kolawole, Azubike Ishiekwene and some others polished the diamond. But Ngozi Nwozor made that diamond shine. Thanks NG for being a part of my life. God be with you till we meet again. Abiola Salawu, graduate, Kwara State Polytechnic (KWARA POLY) Aunty NG, you live on in our hearts and we are a reflection of your values, beliefs and principles. Yours is an enduring legacy. Words cannot describe our feelings of loss and how dearly you are missed. It is true that we have once enjoyed. We can never lose all that we lose, but love deeply. Forever remain a part of us. You are not forgotten and never will you be. Rest in peace and

Pushing Out

anywhere. I agree with the man. I go further to add that the “exact man” is the person you want to be with; he is the person you want to converse with; he is the person you want to follow. In other words, the “exact man” is a leader. After getting disillusioned with rewith porting the shenanigans of politicians as a political correspondent, especially the ignominious use they put undergraduates and other youths to, just to 08054503104 win elections, I was consumed with (SMS only) the idea of doing something to counter that. I decided it would be good to try, •campuslife@thenationonlineng.net in whatever little way I can, to raise •ladycampus@yahoo.com another set of undergraduates who are “exact men” – leaders. These ones will be this is because it is by doing the right thing mainly reporters. But to be able to report, they that each of us can “make (his) way prosper- have to be concerned about events around them, ous, and have good success”. they have to read to know what happens elseWhen I set out with the CAMPUSLIFE dream where which will enable them to realise that – a platform for undergraduates from across there could be better alternatives, and they have the country to have their news and opinions to be observant enough to pen down developpublished, for them and for the larger society ments coherently. outside the campuses – I also birthed the idea This thinking led me to scout for first, a newsof a quarterly training session for them. The paper that would buy into my vision. The Naobjectives of the training include: to bring the tion, through Gbenga Omotoso, my Editor, did. students together and forge a network that will We made our debut on August 2, 2007. Almost last all their lives (another way to foster unity immediately after, I started writing to corpoin the land); to inculcate winning life values in rate bodies, looking for sponsors for the trainthem; to raise a set of young elites who will ing sessions. By February of the next year, afhelp to shape a Nigeria we all can be proud of; ter having dropped over 75 letters (more than and to raise up star leaders out of the currently once in some places, especially when I realised distressed generation. that the designation of the relevant official was To bring it nearer home, one can say I wanted different from what I wrote earlier, or that – and still want – to raise leaders. One of my where I dropped it was not where the relevant most favourite quotes is this, from Francis Ba- department had its office), Coca-Cola requested con (15th century English essayist and philoso- for a meeting with me. I met with Mr. Clem pher): “Reading maketh a full man, conference Ugorji, the Communications Manager. By the a ready man, and writing an exact man”. I was next meeting, he brought in his colleague from introduced to this quote by Dr. Nzebunachi NBC Plc, as it then was, Miss Lola Oke. The Oji, my Grammar lecturer at the University of rest, as they say, is history. Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in 1997. In his explaI tell my students, over 250 of them when I nation of the sentence, Oji believed that the add those who have graduated from school “exact man” was the epitome of a well bred and even the NYSC programme, that their individual. The person who can read, discuss lives are the barometer with which I gauge with himself and others, then write coherently my failure or success in the last four years, I is the person you can trust to hold his own

Ngozi Agbo

Memories of Ngozi Agbo in the Lord’s bosom

to bear.

Michael Adebayo, 200-Level Computer Science, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) “The Lord takes the righteous away before the evil days” Isa. 57:1. Aunty, you have thought me in the hardest way that death is inevitable. You will be remembered eternally for your valuable input in my life. Your inprints are so indelible in the sands of time. You have founded a generation after your heart. God be praised, you came, you saw and you conquered. We love you but you are now in the bosom of He who loves you best. Continue to rest till we meet to part no more. Very hard to say Adieu!

Amaka Nwankwo, The Nation staff Rest in peace Aunty Ngozi. We both chatted last week when I was teasing you about your big tummy. Little did I know it would be our last discussion. Rest in the bosom of d Lord. You will be greatly missed

Hope Ofobike, graduated from Mass Communication, University of Jos and now serving in Niger State Aunty, I can’t believe this. You just called me to send story last week. Now you are gone. Your impact on youths and Nigeria can’t be wiped away. I love you. Keep resting with Jesus Dayo Nigeria, Ngozi’s Facebook friend Your good deeds will always speak for you. The many youths you gave voice will always imprint your name in the hearts of millions... So sad that death shamelessly took you away even when your good heart is seriously needed in a society starved of one. I can never forget you for the love you always show, and your bluntness. RIP Aunty Ngozi. Hannah Ojo, 400-Level English, OAU Life gave us happiness and took away joy. Life gave us a baby boy and took my aunty. I wish this is one expensive joke but it is not. Cheerful moment never last and good people are rare. We werr not born of the same parent but the bond surpasses that of relations. It was you who started this light and now you are nowhere to be found. Ngozi Theresa Agbo nee Nwozor, your demise is too much

Faith Olaniran, Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna) RIP Mrs. Ngozi Agbo, Editor CAMPUSLIFE. Death why did you have to do this to her. She gave me the opportunity to discover, grow and have a platform to express my writing skills. I saw her last during the 9th CAMPUSLIFE writers’ workshop. I never knew that was the last days she would be spending with me. She was an Amazon. She had a heart of lion. I respect her courage and zeal to see young people grow. Aunty Ngozi, as all CAMPUSLIFE correspondents fondly called her, will be missed by all those who have passed through her. My first encounter with her was at 2010 CAMPUSLIFE award dinner at the Ikeja. I admired her calmness and gentleness. She was so free that you never had a dull moment with her. Aunty, I will miss you, rest in peace for forever my mentor. Femi Asu, graduate of Accounting, Ekiti State University (EKSU) No sooner had I logged into Facebook around 11pm on Monday than my eyes caught a post by Vincent Nzemeke, a member of our pen family, CAMPUSLIFE. I just could not believe my eyes. It immediately sent shivers down my spines; goose pimples began to suffuse my body; tears were welling up in my ducts; my heart was thumping with trepidation. I needed someone to tell me I read the wrong thing. I queried loudly: “No, Aunty Ngozi. It’s not possible!” I was still chanting in dismay when my phone rang. It was Opeyemi Dibua, another member of the CAMPUSLIFE family. I said to my brother

mean just that. I tell them that because they are young people, we tried to incorporate some fun and unwinding into our three-day workshops. But that is just to fulfill the “all work and no play ….” rule. Beyond that, the essence of the workshop should not be lost on them. This is why our themes are not just to fulfill all righteousness; they are the products of deep thought. A good number of my students – and other undergraduates – are bloggers. That is nice. But that is just an insignificant part of the new media. It should not necessarily be so. In some blogs I have visited, I have been able to glean really useful information. But many of such blogs are owned by people in other climes. Apart from some five or so good ones by Nigerian youths, most of our blogs contain little or nothing in terms of tangible content. It is as if it has become a status thing – like most great ideas when we bring them here – just to be able to say “I have a blog”. We have to get away from that error. Next to blogging, I urge these “stars in a distressed generation” to take full advantage of the expository lecture of Mr. Otufodunrin. The internet is a minefield of information, of wealth and of power. It is not a place to go to only when you need to “copy and paste” for some assignment or project. It is not just for social networking; it is not just for shopping; and definitely, it is not for fraud. For close to six weeks now, I have run a series on leadership. It has been more of drawing up the portrait of the type of people we will vote for in subsequent elections, starting from the coming ones in Edo and Ondo states. But, as I have titled this piece, I am eager to see young Nigerians who will become leaders of the new media – especially from among the group that attended the May 18 – 20 workshop. Ciao This is Ngozi Agbo’s last column, which was first published last Thursday. It is repeated today in her memory

whose attention my chanting had attracted: “It is finished. So it is true? Ope wants to tell me about it.” I picked the call; the story was no different: Aunty Ngozi is dead! Mutiat Alli, HND II Mass Communication, LASPOTECH Aunty Ngozi, it was like yesterday when I told you I wanted to make mark in print journalism and you said to me: “keep writing and improve your skills”. That word kept me going and made me who I am today but now that you are gone, I will miss you so much. Aunty Ngozi, you don’t deserve this at this stage when your glory was beaming. You are gone but your memory lives on. Idris Abubakar, graduating Mass Communication student, BUK Ooh my God! Aunty, you gave me the opportunity to meet great minds across the River Niger. I’ll make sure I keep the flag of friendship flying to honour your cherished memory. Aunty, apart from my mum, no woman can do what you have done to me. I am mourning you, Aunty. Olasunkanmi Arowolo, 200-Level Mass Communication, Lagos State University (LASU) Tears drop down my eyes; sorrow fills my heart. It happened 10 hours after I left your office, The Nation. When I heard that our mother, aunt, mentor, Ngozi Agbo, Editor of CAMPUSLIFE, who given teeth to my writing skills gave up the ghost. I was blank. It is a painful exit. Bakare Wale, 200-Level Zoology, UNILORIN Why Aunty Ngozi? A mother and mentor of Nigerian youth. This is a great loss to our generation. Jesas Adetutu, former The Nation Entertainment reporter We struggled and fought and tussled, just when it is time to sigh and rest, the rope is cut! I remember her politeness and smile. Her subtle words of encouragement. I didn’t see her in a while but she was an inspiration while I worked with The Nation. One of the talented women in Nigeria left this world. May God grant her husband and family the strength to go through this difficult time and may her soul rest in peace.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE

‘Sofoluwe was a listening father’ Students of the Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos, have held a service of songs for their late Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe, whose remains will be interred today. IDRIS AKINPELU (300-Level Business Administration) reports.

T was a wet Friday evening when the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Distance Learning Institute (DLI) held a service of songs for the late Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, who died on May 5. The service started with an opening prayer by Rev. Tunde Osho. The first lesson was taken from Romans 8: 31-39 and read by the Director of DLI, Prof Funke Lawal. The second lesson was read by a family member, Mrs Busola Soleye. The last was read by the Deputy Director, Dr. M.P. Kuton A rain of tribute and testimony followed. A don, Prof Olowokulejo, knew Prof Sofoluwe for over 40 years, said the late VC made a great impact on UNILAG. Prof Lawal recalled how she became close to the late vice-chancellor after being made a professor. Their friendship became more cordial, she said after she was appointed director Prof Lawal said the late Sofoluwe. gave her all the support she needed to suceed. She added:“I don’t know what to say but indeed I have lost a good friend.” President of the DLI Student Association, Comrade Sulaimon Sheriff, said the late VC showned so much concern about the institute. He recalled how they met two hours before the late Sofoluwe’s death. He said: “The director took me to the office of the VC hours to his death, where he encouraged me that service

to humanity is service to God. Unknown to me, that was the last time I will ever be with him. He was such a listening father.” In his sermon, spoke about living an exemplary life. He took his message from John 5:24. He said the late VC has gone to be with the Lord. Some students of DLI also gave testimonies about the late VC. Victoria Ogunremi,a 400-Level Business Administration Student said: I met him once and that was when I was at the senate building. We actually wanted to take the lift up on my way to UNILAG FM. Normally, there is a lift for the management and there is another for others. So, the late VC just walked up to us and asked us to join him. I felt like he is a very humble man. Hardly will you see a man as reputable as he is that will want any other person to share the lift with him. If it were other people, they will not allow you to join them. And so far with what I have been hearing from people that met him, they have been talking about humanity. I want to tell people that leadership is about being humble. When you are humble, you command respect and people will respect you. May his soul rest in peace.” Another Balogun Ahmed (Accounting, student 300level), said: “Prof Sofoluwe was a very nice man. He was always paying attention to us, especially when we had problem. It is painful to lose him at this time, but there is nothing we can do be-

•UNILAG students during the service of songs

•President DLISA, Sheriff

•Victoria

•Ahmed

cause God loves him more. The late Vice-chancellor was always saying he was ready to take the Distance Learning Institute to the moon. Our prayer now is that the incoming VC should give us the same attention just like the late Prof Sofoluwe.” Governor of the 400-Level Business Administration class Adeleke Mayowa said: “The death of Prof Sofoluwe came as a rude shock to everybody in University of Lagos,

because the Tuesday of the week he died, I saw him during the world press conference and he look very healthy and four days after I learnt that he is gone. It was a rude shock to me personally and up till now, I’ve not got over it. If you look at what the man has done, his interest in DLI I can say we will really miss him.” Another student, Olufemi Hassan

of Business Administration 300level, said: “The loss of the late”Vice-chancellor is a serious shock and a big one to everyone in the school because Prof Sofoluwe was someone who oversaw everything in the school even concerning the students. Students saw him as a father. He was a great daddy. We will surely miss him.”

Abiodun Olutekunbi graduated in 2007 from the Department of Religious Studies in University of Ilorin (UNILORIN). After his youth service, he gained admission to study Law in the same institution. The 400-Level student spoke with MICHAEL ADEBAYO (200-Level Computer Science) on why he went back to study Law.

‘Students must have advantage of their union’

•Muibat

HAT motivated your second Bachelor’s degree from the same university? First, I was a very active student of the university during my first degree. The second is that UNILORIN is fast growing in terms of academic excellence and infrastructural development. In other words, I would have been a stranger if I had applied to another university. But I am glad that I am back here to study the course that goes with my passion. Can you spot out any difference between then and now? I hardly believed what I saw when I returned after a year that I left this school. I am quite sure that the blind can see and the deaf can hear that the university is evolving as a giant player in achieving excellence in all academic disciplines. What drives you? Passion for excellence How did you come about the nickname ‘Advocate’? Advocate is like just saying The Law.

•Abiodun

It was a nickname I earned during my first degree. In fact, people do ask me then if I was a lawyer. The dream would have died but I am glad that with God, the processes are on to add the prefix ‘S’ and the suffix ‘N’ in due time. I mean Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). At any rate, people often misconstrue the appellation as depicting hooliganism. The appellation represents idealism and creativity. What do you think officials of the Students’ Union need to do to help the students’ cause? For me, the Students’ Union is the output device for the input mechanism of the school administration. So where we are fortunate to have an excellent dispensation at the management level, we must annex this for students’ advantage in terms of being worthy in character and learning.

•Tosin

•Kayode

‘Nothing to celebrate about our democracy’ •Continued from page 29

For Muibat Adedayo, 200-Level, Mass Communication, the problem lies with our leaders. “The democratic leadership in Nigeria is not doing well in terms of provision of amenities and good governance,” she said. Aderinola Olatunde, 200-Level Law, LASU, described the mode of governance in Nigeria as “demoncrazy”. She said:“Nigeria to me is not practising democracy as it ought to be practiced. Democracy is said to be the government of the people, by the people and for the people. But Nigerian politicians are demons. They never consider the people when making decisions. Take for instance, the preamble of the 1999 Constitution says people must be consulted on issues affecting their liberty and wellbeing. But the people’s opinion

does not count. So, where is the democracy?” Shola Oyedele, 200-Level, Business Education, said: “Democracy is working partially”. He advised government at all levels to be truthful to the people they are in office to serve To Habeeb Whyte, 400-Level Law, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), democratic governance in Nigeria is a misplaced priority. He said if there is anything that needs change, it should be the leadership led Dr Goodluck Jonathan. Obianuju Asouzu, 400-Level Environmental Resource and Management, University of Calabar

(UNICAL),said those that fought for democracy had good intentions which are being rubbished by those in government. She said: “As a student, I am supposed to enjoy quality education as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. But my parents pay through their nose to see me through the university. This is a slap on the constitution. Sincerely, there is nothing to celebrate about because there has been no development in the land. We read every day in the newspapers how funds meant for development are embezzled by our leaders and their cronies without punishment. We have people rotting in jail because of petty theft to feed their families. This is injustice and without addressing some of these issues, I don’t think Nigeria can achieve anything with democratic governance.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE Association celebrates culture with gangan From Oluwafemi Ogunjobi OAU

•From left: NYSC officials, Mrs Ifeanyi Eze, Mrs Uju Nmotih, Corps Member Abayomi, Head of Community Development Service (CDS) team, Mr John Olugbade, Mrs Azuka, Miss Ifeanyi Okonkwo and Miss Josephine Onejegbuna at the event.

Corps member launches audio-visual language package

NATIONAL Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Awka South, Anambra State, Mr. Abayomi Awoyemi has launched an audiovisual language tutorial package for current and prospective corp members and Nigerians who want to learn three major languages. He presented the packages at a commissioning programme in Awka to the delight of NYSC officials, corp members and some community members. According to him, corp members are faced with lot of difficulties due to their inability to communi-

From Ayodeji Adesina NYSC ONITSHA

cate fluently. “I want them (corp members) to interact and associate better with their host communities and am optimistic my projects will bridge this communication barrier. The Head of Community Development Service (CDS) team, Mr John Bode Olugbade, who represented the Zonal Inspector, commissioned the package. He praised the initiative and ingenuity and call on other serving corp members to etch their names on the sands of time by embarking on community development service

that will improve the quality of life and living. Mr Olugbade praised Mr Awoyemi’s project saying, ‘the current and coming generation of corp members that will use the packages will find it friendly and usable while solving the language barrier that has limited them.” Speaking exclusively to CAMPUSLIFE, Mr Awoyemi said the communication gap is a barrier to learning and impacting the people in the rural areas in Nigeria. “Most of my colleagues could not achieve their goals while working on Millennium Development

Goals (MDGs) due to their inability to speak the language of the rural dwellers.” “As you know most of the corp members posted to Anambra State and some states cannot speak the host state language; and thereby cannot transact business or interact intelligently with the people. These packages are designed to help ameliorate that problem.” Mr Awoyemi said the desire to embark on this project was fuelled by the need to contribute his quota to help in fulfilling the aims and objectives of the NYSC scheme and Nigerians at large.

THE Theatre and Dramatic Arts department of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), last Friday, held a cultural night. The programme was tagged Gangan, which means talking drum in Yoruba language. The programme started around 6pm with the sound of a talking drum. In his welcome address, Prof Gbemisola Adeoti, Director, Institute of Cultural Studies, said: “The essence of this programme is to arouse our consciousness in African culture despite the ideology of globalisation.” The literary giant stressed that cultural night was not about any particular tribe but a unification of all tribes, saying “this helps us in the confrontation of our challenges.” Adejare Adebayo-Faleti, the son of the veteran Yoruba film maker, Alagba Adebayo Faleti, said Gangan was an initiative of the “The Authors”, a student group founded in 2011 on the basis of creative exhibition. The 300-Level English student said the inspiration behind the establishment of the group was to empower and encourage young artistes, who understand the basics of production through art and to groom them for future role in African art. The Araba of Osogbo, Baba Yemi Elebuibon, praised the courage of the organisers, especially the founder of The Author, Adejare, whom Elebuibon described as a true son of his father for championing the cause of reviving African cultural heritage.

Department celebrates week

•Prof Mimiko (second left) with Victor (left), the winner of the star quest, Blessing (second right) and Temitope the first runners up in the debate competition during the visit to the Vice-Chancellor in his office

AAUA students shine at inter-varsity debate

WO students of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, Temitope Fagbamila and Blessing Obogun - have emerged first runners-up in an inter-tertiary institution debate competition organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in conjunction with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Another student of the university, Victor Alfred from the Department of Political science, also emerged third in the just-concluded 2012 Star Quest musical competition. Temitope and Blessing, 400 level students of the Faculty of Law and Department of History and International Studies, came home with corporate prizes and a plaque. Alfred, the drummer in his group won N350,000 and a plaque.

From Imoleayo Oyedeji AAUA

While presenting the winners and awards to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Femi Mimiko, in his office, the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr Nireti Duyilemi, said 17 tertiary institutions participated in the competition; 55 artistes took part in the star quest contest. In his address at the welcome ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor congratulated the students on behalf of the university community for doing AAUA proud and appreciated the Dean for making a remarkable impact on the students, saying “Since you have been given the responsibility as Dean of Students’ Affairs, your students have been coming home with laurels. I congratulate you and your team for doing a good job.’ Expressing his feelings to our correspondent, one of the students, Victor Alfred said: ‘I feel excited for winning the third prize out of

the 55 artistes who participated in the Star Quest competition. I thank God Almighty and the Vice-Chancellor for giving me the opportunity to represent the university in the contest. It was indeed wonderful. Blessing Obogun, who participated in the debate competition and emerged second said: ‘I never believed it. Indeed, it was really miraculous. All the same, I thank God Almighty, the Vice-Chancellor and my parents for giving me the opportunity and also the ICPC and NYSC for organising the debate which has really given me the opportunity to prove my mettle before the world.” Temitope Fagbamila echoed: “I thanked God that we emerged second among several universities present at the debate competition, but I have to say that it wasn’t easy for us. I give kudos to our university management for allowing us represent the institution in the contest.”

T was celebration galore last week at the Department of Information Technology, Moddibo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), Yola, as students of the department under the aegis of National Association of Information Technology students (NAITS), observed their week. The event started last Tuesday with a rally and awareness procession round the campus. The students who were dressed in white tops and blue jeans danced to the tunes from woofers attached to a convoy of cars as they moved round the campus. Other highlights of the event included bonfire, pool-side party, intra-departmental football match between the various levels and a seminar which featured two academics, Prof Umar Pate, a veteran journalist and head of Mass Communication department, University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) and Prof Ago Quaiye, from American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola. Prof Quaiye, who spoke on Information Technology: Driving the economic revolution of the 21st Century, said most developing

From Philips Ogbaje MAUTECH

countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia are moving faster because they embraced information technology unlike Nigeria. He stated that information technology plays a critical role in the development of any economy as it is being experienced today in developed nations. In his own summation, Prof Pate, who spoke on Information Technology and the media: Challenges and prospects, observed that information technology has made it easier for journalists to manipulate information in addition to impartiality in news delivery. He, however, noted that the greatest challenge facing the media today in Nigeria is power supply, which he said is very critical to the survival of newspaper organisation. A 400-Level student of the department, Suleiman Sarki, observed that the week was a huge success. In similar vein, Tijani Duhu, praised the organisers, noting that the department would continue to set the pace in the school.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE Varsity matriculates freshers From Tunji Awe EKSU

•CAMPUSLIFE reporter Joyce (fourth left) with other awardees after the programme

HE Association of Mass Communication Students (AMCOS), Benson Idahosa University, Benin has awarded Campuslife Correspondent, Joyce Marcus as best campus editor of the year in the institution. She is a final year student of Mass Communication and outgoing president of the department. It was gathered that the young writer has been a strong force behind the school’s publications. Joyce merged alongside 21 awardees who were presented to students and lecturers of the school by the Mass Communication award committee which climaxed this year’s students’ week held at the varsity’s lecture theatre. Awards for academic excellence were presented to students in each level including part time students.

CAMPUSLIFE reporter is Editor of the Year From Nosa Uwadiae BIU

The grand award for overall best student went to Blessing Ogbuji 200Level with 5.0 grade point, while Aimuiuwu Destiny emerged best student in the 400Level part time of the department. Deborah Olaoye emerged best student in 100Level, Blessing Ogbuji emerged best student for 200Level, Itohan Ekpemiata emerged best student 300Level while Tejiri Akpobaro was 400L best student. For part time, Sarah Ebhohimen 100Level, Precious Omere 200L, Juliet Ahiante 300Level, while Destiny Aimuiwu emerged 400Level. A award was also presented to Hon. Joe

Atohengbe, 500Level part time, as AMCOS encourager. Others include class rep of the year, which Blessing Ogbuji 200Level also clinched, Most Social student, Osarugue Osenwowa 400Level, Joyce Marcus 400Level also received best representative award, Best Behaved winner was Gbemisola Ekundayo 400Level. An excited Joyce said:”this is first of its kind. So, we have written our names on the sands of times in the history of Mass Communication. My mandate was to redefine leadership, and I am so happy, have achieved that not just with this, but with other achievements too numerous to mention. I thankful to the Almighty God” Blessing Ogbuji 200Level, a recipient of three awards, while speak-

Literary group inducts new members

Creativity 101 hits faculty

N continuation of the 50th anniversary commemoration, the Obafemi Awolowo university has enjoyed donations from a former academic staff, Professor Toyin Falola and also from the medical graduate class of 1990. Professor Falola, a former academic staff of the department of history, has donated more than 25 titles on history and other related disciplines to

HE Jury Press, one of the many press boards in the Faculty of Law of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), has organised a short story competition. Being the first of its kinds, the event was tagged ‘Creativity 101’ and was held in honour of Prof Gbemisola Adeoti, a lecturer in the English department of the school and the author of a popular literary work Naked Souls. The guest speakers at the event included Mr Emmanuel Iduma, who is the former Editor of Jury Press board and founder of Saraba magazine online; Mr Olushola Obajeun, a graduate of the school and finalist in the World Bank essay competition. Prof Gbemisola delivered a lecture on writing and creativity. After the lecture, the panel of judges called for entries from the participants. Also, a brief exhibition was done outside the venue of the event. The exhibition showcased fine arts, paintings as well as books written by Nigerian writers. Ola Taiwo, a student of the institution, displayed the copies of his published book, Sprouting

REATIVE Writers’ Niche, a student literary group based on Obafemi Awolowo University campus held its inaugural at at the weekend. The programme kicked off at a few minutes past 10am and was anchored by the group’s director of programmes, Onowugbeda Samuel, a 300 level student of the faculty. The induction was to officially welcome members of the group who had passed the interview organised a few weeks before. The induction which took place at one of the lecture rooms in the faculty of law, began with an opening prayer by Tobi Longe, a 300 Level student of law and an executive member of the group. After that, a welcome address was given by the president of the group, Adebayo Caleb, also a 300 level student of the faculty of law. In his address, he welcomed all the inductees and reminded them why they were there congratulating them on being the chosen few after so many that were interviewed. His welcome address was followed by a brief introduction of the group, its aims and objectives, as well as an introduction of its executive members to the inductees which was done by the vice president, Opurum Timothy, also a 300 level student of the faculty. After the introduction by the V.P, the provosts of the various colleges

ing to CAMPUSLIFE, expressed happiness and surprise, according to her, “I feel so elated and short of words to express my profound gratitude to my Creator, who by his mercies, made this possible. I owe him all, and to him be all glory, I’m grateful also, to the department for finding me worthy to be honoured as an awardee of three different categories. I’m very grateful, long live AMCOS.” Meanwhile, staff presented with awards was Mr. Elijah Ojete as Staff Adviser of the year and Associate Professor Emmanuel Ekeli who is also the Head of Department as Father of AMCOS in appreciation of his fatherly role and contribution to the association. Diploma students were also awarde. The event was anchored by Ambrose Eteng, 200Level

PARENTS, guardians and well wishers trooped into the campus of Ekiti State University (EKSU) penultimate Friday to witness the matriculation ceremony of the newly-admitted students into the institution. As early as 4:00am, old students were seen moving round hostels performing matriculation rite for the fresh students. The rite included purification with water and strokes of cane to officially induct fresh students into the system. Tunbosun Pamilerin, an occupant of Harvardhood hostel and a 400-Level student, said: “This is done in order to make the new students realise EKSU is not a school where it will all be fun but to strive for grades and come out a better person.” Some students blocked roads leading to the entrance of the school, demanding money from the celebrants. This was conducted in a peaceful manner. At about some minutes past 10am, the matriculation programme started at the school’s main auditorium with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Patrick Aina, the Registrar, Dr Awosusi Omojola and other principal officers in attendance. Prof Aina told the students to be good ambassadors of the university, urging them to shun social vices. The students were also taught how to calculate their Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). Kemisola Fajuyigbe, 100-Level Guaidance and Counselling, student said: “Today is a great day for me because many of us wrote post-UTME in this school but few of us are matriculating today. All glory be to God Almighty.

•A new member receining his certificate from Lalude (left) during the programme From Adebayo Caleb OAU

came out to talk on their colleges and what they were willing to offer the inductees if they eventually belonged to their college as members of the group. The group has four colleges; prose, plays, poetry and creative nonfiction. The provosts promised hectic work for their various colleges. The guest speaker, Mr Lekan Lalude, a part four student of the faculty and a reporter for Mustard Press, was the next to come up. He spoke extensively on literature and its development in relation to philosophy, literature and its relationship with nature and literature as creativity. His brief talk was praised by the listeners after which there was an opportunity

for the inductees to state why they came to the group. An inductee, Akintunde Oluwaseun, a 200 level student of Law, stated his own rationale in form of poetry. He said he had seen a bright future in the group and wanted to adds his part and also gain. Babajide Joshua, another inductee and also a 200 level student said: “I am tired of keeping my ideas to myself, so I found this as a good opportunity to share them.” The swearing of oath of membership was the next thing to come up, and it was taken by the group’s P.R.O, Lasaki Temitayo , and then certificates were presented to the inductees by Lalude. After that, the president came up to answer questions any of the new members had.

Don donates books to library •Graduates give generator to college From Kemi Busari OAU

the Hezekiah Oluwasanmi library. The donor, who is an astute scholar at the university of Texas, is an accomplished and talented author with

more than a hundred publications to his credit. Responding to this kind gesture, the management of the library expressed their appreciation for such donation.

From Emmanuel Sonuga and Caleb Adebayo OAU

again, explaining the idea behind it. The paintings and fine arts were also explained by their creators. The second segment of the programme began after the exhibition. Iduma then spoke briefly before Obajeun took the stage to speak to the students. Afterwards, awards were presented to the winners of the competition. Participants who did not win were given consolation prizes. A student of English, John Odeyemi, won the contest. He was followed by Esther Ireoluwa, 200-Level Law and Samuel Onowugbeda, 300-Level Law. John told CAMPUSLIFE: “I only entered the competition to try out my hand in writing short stories, and I won.” The Editor of the Jury press board, Ajibola Lawal, said the programme was organised to encourage and build creativity among students.

I only entered the competition to try out my hand in writing short stories, and I won.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE

For freshers, a dream come true Over 4,000 students have matriculated at the University of Calabar (UNICAL). At the ceremony, the freshers were advised to abstain from unprotected sex. EMMANUEL AHANONU (400Level Political Science) reports.

HE saying that many are called but few are chosen aptly describes the testimonies of students admitted into the University of Calabar (UNICAL). Their matriculation was held last week at the Abraham Ordia Sta-

•UCAAP members displaying banners on HIV/AIDS to sensitise the freshers

dium. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof James Epoke, in his remarks, said of the over 43,000 candidates that applied for admission, 4,061 were admitted. The event, was attended by the Pro-chancellor, Dr Roland Ehigeamose, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof O. Obiekezie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof U. Utsalo, the Registrar, Deans, Directors and Heads of Depart-

ments. The students were run through the institution’s rules and regulations. Prof Epoke charged the “new comers” to live a transparent life. “Remember that the cardinal objective of the reason you are here is to study and earn a degree. You cannot achieve this if you allow yourself to be unnecessarily diverted by frivolities. You must be focused and ensure that you obey

the rules and regulations of the university.” He warned the students against getting involved in anti-social activities, such as examination malpractice and cultism, saying it is only the registered associations on campus that are recommended for students. “Remember that for now, your names are written with pencil and those that fall below the Cu-

mulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 0.75 after your session exams will have their names erased,” Prof Epoke added. Churches and indigenous associations raised make-shift canopies with banners to welcome their new ‘brethrens’. Gift and food was shared by various campus fellowships. The University of Calabar Association for AIDS Prevention (UCAAP), which is an affiliate of the Nigeria Youth Aid Programme, took the centre stage to lecture the students on HIV/ AIDS. Their placards and banners read “I know my status, what about you?”, “Don’t die in silence, know your status today”, “Abstain at all time for it pays to wait until you are married” and “Abstinence remain the best”. The president of UCAAP, Paul Ekaji, told CAMPUSLIFE that the group carried out the programme to sensitise the freshers on the need to know their HIV status and stop the spread of the deadly virus. The group shared condoms and other protective materials to students. Students were later invited to UCAAP office for free HIV/AIDS test. Ben Enyia, the Programme Officer, said people who could not abstain from unprotected sex should either be faithful to their partners or often use a condom. A fresher, who simply identified himself as Eyome, said: “This is a dream come true for me to to have been admitted to study Medicine and Surgery.” The Dean of Students’ Affair, Prof Eyong Eyong, congratulated the students.

Muslim students from various higher institution gathered at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) to witness the grand finale of Prince Bola Ajibola Quranic Competition. YUSUF NURUDEEN (200-Level Islamic Law, Lagos State University) and MUSBAUDEEN SHEKONI (200-Level Mass Communication) were there.

FUNAAB shines in Quranic competition

ECITATION of the Holy Qur’an with a sonorous voice is a rare gift. Those who have it among muslim faitful are the envy of others. This is why many muslim parents send their children to Arabic schools to memorise the Qur’an, learn the tenets of the religion and how best to recite the holy book with a captivating voice. It is against this background that a former judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Prince Bola Ajibola held a Quaranic Memorisation Competition for muslim students in universities in Yoruba land. The grand finale of the contest, which cut across higher institutions in the Southwest, was held penultimate Sunday at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB). It was attended by a host of Islamic scholars, including Prof Dhikrulah Musa, Prof Lateef Salam, Mr. Olayinka Abdul Mojeed, Bro. Muhideen Salam and presidents of Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) from various institutions. The contest hosted over 500 attendees from the six invited institutions, which included Lagos State University (LASU), Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro (ILARO POLY), Federal College of Education (FCE), Oshiele, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, (IBADAN POLY) and Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB). Prof Abdulsalam, a lecturer at the department of Food Science and Technology, FUNNAB, in his address said: “Memorising the

Holy Qur’an with the application of Tajweed (recitation rules) and seeking Islamic education are compulsory tasks for all Muslim students anywhere in the world.” He spoke of the relevance of Qur’an memorisation and its importance to the propagation of Islam. Prof Abdulsalam said the contest was geared towards enhancing Quranic memorisation among Muslim youth and to whet their appetite in seeking Islamic knowledge in the materialist world. Speaking at the commencement of the competition, Ustadh Uthman Oladoyin, a panelist, said the evaluation and judgment of the Quranic recitation would be based on knowledge and application of Tajweed by the contestants. There were two categories in the competition - junior and senior categories - with one round each. The junior category, which had Suratul Mulik and Suratul Nas to be recited, comprised nine competitors with two representatives from the host school. In the senior category, contestants were asked to recite five chapters of the Holy Qur’an. At the end of the contest, Umar Faruq, a student of FUNAAB, came first in the junior category with 179.3 points. He was closely followed by Ahmad Muhalim and Ismail Azeez, from IBADAN POLY with 165.2 and 157.3 respectively. In the senior category, Afeez Alaran, a student of FUNAAB, brought his opponents to their knees as he trounced them with points 182.2. He was followed closely by Basit Alabi, a student of LASU with 164.3 points and

•Umar (right) receiving his prize from the panel of judges

Shakir Ayodele, who had 159 points. CAMPUSLIFE gathered that the winners of both categories - Umar and Azeez – won the competition last year. Azeez, 200-Level Water Resources Management and Technology, told CAMPUSLIFE: “Memorising the whole Quranic chapters is what I cherish. I am very appreciative to my teacher, Ustadh Razak Rauf, under whose tutelage I had my foundation in Arabic and Quranic education in Ibadan.” The winners of the contest were awarded half-tuition scholarships. Muhideen Abdulsalam, the president of FUNAAB MSSN, thanked the participants for attending the programme.

•Muslim students at the programme

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE

As Sofoluwe goes home today I

T was on May 12. The news hit the University of Lagos (UNILAG) community like a thunderbolt. The 10th Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, was announced dead. The amiable VC was the latest victim of cardiac arrest. Not even the expertise of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) doctors could sustain him. The halls of residence became chaotic that Saturday as the news of the VC’s death spread. Reactions by students ranged from shock to disbelief. Pinging on Blackberry phones assumed a rather furious dimension. Some female students shed tears and the heavens appeared to join them with a shower.

When the university authorities called for three lecture-free days to mourn the late VC, the outpouring of grief was palpable. The following Tuesday, there was candle light procession by the university community; lecturers, non- teaching staff and the students assembled at the Senate Building to honour Sofoluwe. It was a Black Tuesday as participants donned black clothes to mourn a man generally adjudged a good leader. There were many testimonies of his noble and fatherly qualities. Among students, he was a “ good man “ and “approachable person”. Someone said: “He was very free, very friendly, he was always happy; he was a great man, very

simple, and he had a smile that carried students along.” A week before his death, Prof Sofoluwe was at the Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA) 2012 lecture, where the Nobel laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, delivered a paper titled Monumentalism and the Renaissance. No one, probably not even Sofoluwe himself, could have had any inkling of the impending tragedy that day. On May 3, he was actively involved in the Confucius Institute cultural programme which was also attended by many students and the Chinese Ambassador. A few days later, he was at another seminar with many students again in attendance. Unlike many university administrators, Sofoluwe was frequently

on the side of the students. What could have killed “our man”? Comments such as “but I saw him on the eve of his death” or “I saw him on television” were told by students, who are the most affected. One thing is certain, the late VC left an indelible mark on our mind and he will be remembered for the progressive changes. Sleep well, beloved Professor of Computer Science. We your academic children will always remember you for your outstanding performance and feat in UNILAG and Nigeria. Truly, a rare gem is going to sleep today. Adieu Prof Babatunde Sofoluwe. Omolola, 400-Level European Languages, UNILAG

By Omolola Oyelude

The declining Nigeria’s education standard

T is shameful to know that no Nigerian university made the ranking of the first 20 universities in Africa. According to the Africa’s university standard rating list for the year 2012, no Nigerian university could measure up to the required standard, let alone the world standard. How could our universities make the list when students still sit on the floor to receive lectures? In a situation where 1,500 students receive lectures in a 750-capacity hall, what does one expect? We embark on strikes that last from two to nine months and people who ought to spend four to five years in school end up spending six to seven years. When are we ever going to get it right? Some lecturers are given cubicles for offices and they sometimes even need to share with two others. Yet we expect the best from them. Even some of these lecturers are made to handle five to six

By Gbemitayo Leezah courses for different classes owing to shortage of lecturers in the department. The average public university cannot boast of a stable and functional academic calendar, when incessant strikes are the order of the day. Some students conceal books in secret corners in the university library when over 150 students need to use that same copy. It is called “survival of the smartest”. We fight over water in queues by the off-campus hostels’ boreholes. Sometimes, we may not have our bath for days. Lecturers have adapted to teaching students, science students especially, the theoretical aspects of the syllabus when there are little or no equipments in the laboratory to undertake the practical aspect. Little wonder why our graduates cannot stand on their feet after years in the university.

Private universities are not left out. I recollect the story of a girl who came out with 4.9 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) in a private university but could not defend the grade in labour market. The private universities are not helping matters, they dole out give grades for money and end up producing academic misfits. Another instance is the story of a senior lawyer, who paid hugely for five years to get his son a Law degree in a private university but ended up sending him abroad to restudy the same course after discovering the child had nothing in his brain. This is the terrible reality of our state of education. Government officials send their children abroad to get quality education while the commoners struggle to survive amidst numerous challenges. Their children receive lectures in air-conditioned classrooms, lush environment and are provided all they need. The

Change vs. continuity

location of the national budget to education be strictly adhered to. Some countries allocate 30 to 31 per cent of their budget to education and they are enjoying the dividend of such investment. Permit me at this juncture to use the words of Prof. Michael Omolewa (OON) , a former Ambassador and the permanent Nigerian delegate to UNESCO, that: “If 31 per cent of the money being stolen here and there is channeled to education, we will be better of. I think it is a problem of bad leadership”. I am sick and tired of listening to my fellow students wanting to sell their admission if possible, and using the money to travel abroad. The fact is that we have lost hope in our “rulers” who are in themselves hopeless. When will Nigerian government pay attention to the country’s education? Gbemitayo, 200-Level Law, AAUA

Students display skill at exhibition

HENEVER election is approaching and the ban placed on campaign activities lifted, two words are always used by politicians: change and continuity. Looking at the national dailies in the electioneering period, one will discover that both words will be printed in colour and engage themselves in a combat to outdo each other. Whoever incorporated those words into our electoral lexicon deserves a pat on the back for his ingenuity. Both words have an appeal that politicians find irresistible. In any election, it has always been a battle between change and continuity. It has become difficult, nay impossible to find a politician that has never queued behind one of these words in his (re)election bid. Both words have also successfully found their way into different political camps; the incumbents never see any need for change while their opponents never see anything good that can come out of continuity. Change, in Nigerian parlance, simply means voting out the incumbent, his party or both and not necessarily a change in ideology or orientation as obtained in saner climes. The change proponents hold aimlessly to the word “change” even when their actions set them and change miles apart. Continuity, as being used by the incumbent, simply means “re-elect me” while hiding under the guise of “unfinished projects”. Adverts are sponsored by their foot soldiers saying they want to “continue the good work” even when the purported good works are nowhere to be found. In Economics, change can either be positive or negative. History replete with many harbingers of change, but who performed below par than their predecessors. History also cannot forgive many continuity proponents who saw the second term as a retirement bonus and loot the public coffers to fund their opulent lifestyles when out of government.

sons and daughters of the poor stand for hours to receive lectures. They will be made to spend extra years in school due to the strike that is always caused by inaction of our leaders, whereas their wards already know the dates of their graduation right from the day of admission. Why will they be bothered when we are on strike, when their children are in school when public institutions are shut down? Most of the time after thinking this over and again, I can’t help picturing myself in the National Assembly moving a motion against politicians sending their children to schools abroad or in private universities and supported by a two third majority. However I jolt back to reality when I see someone throwing a chair at me from the rear for moving such a ‘killer’ motion. God help us! Honestly, I think the UNESCO’s recommendation of 26 per cent al-

By Dayo Akinola

As it is rightly stated, the university is a microcosm of the community. Therefore, these words cannot but find their way into the students union, faculty and departmental elections in our universities. Some student aspirants use these words religiously as if the office they are aspiring for is more than union position. Imagine a student aspiring to be the Assistant Public Relation Officer of his department shouting “change” all over the place. One wonders what he wanted to change. However, the frequency of use of these words in students’ elections differs significantly from what is obtainable in the country because only few offices are available for re-election. This made the number of change proponents more than their continuity counterparts on campus. Many change proponents on campus joined the bandwagon because “change” is the happening word. Chief Obafemi Awolowo said: “Let he who will change the world first change himself. It is those that are masters of themselves that become masters of others.” While it is actually true that many sectors and offices in the country need a total overhaul, it will be a disservice to this country if the political class capitalises on this to mislead gullible Nigerians whose desire for true change has made them passionately disposed to love the word “change”. Dayo, 300-Level Economics, UNILORIN

O prepare its graduates for fruitful life after graduation, the National Association of Computer Science Students (NACOSS), University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has held an exhibition contest for its 400-Level students. The competition, which was the first of its kind, was tagged “CSC Exhibition Competition 2012”. The programme took place in the Geology auditorium. Present at the event were Prof J. S. Sadiku, the Head of Department, Dr. A. Babatunde, the subDean of the Faculty of Communication and Information Science and lecturers, who included Dr P. B. Shola. The students were divided into six groups which included Web Development, Computer Engineering, Database, Software Engineering, Networking, Graphics and Animation. They were to explain the latest development in the field. The panel of judges was headed by Dr Shola. The web development group developed an elibrary for the university. The project was developed to assist students within the institution to access books easily by just logging in with their matriculation numbers. Students could also download and recommend books on the site. The Computer Engineering group was next. The students in the group repaired a malfunctioning computer system. They also answered questions from students about faults observed in their laptops.

From Michael Adebayo UNILORIN

The Software Engineering group developed a time-tabling genetic algorithm software. The software developed an efficient method of allocating time space and available classrooms for all courses and lecturers in the department. It also tested how possible a lecturer could change his lecture time and venue for convenience. The Database group developed a database for storing final year students’ project report using Oracle 11G. The Network group configured a router using Telnet. The Graphics and Animation group created a logo for the department and displayed a five-minute animation film for the participants. Prof Sadiku said the generation of graduating students had shown that they were up to the task of creating jobs for themselves. He praised the students for thinking outside the classroom and developing themselves. Dr Shola assessed the exhibitions using parameters which included algorithm, programming, user-interface, specifications and presentation. At the end, the Software Engineering group came first, followed by the Networking group and Graphics and Animation. The President of NACOSS, Abbas Adetunji, said the event was organised to challenge students to develop themselves in the practical world rather than just passing examination.

Fire alarm causes commotion at institute

IME was 10:48 am and venue was the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba. Part time students in their hundreds, who had defied the early morning downpour to attend their lectures were just settling down when an unusual alarm roared. In a jiffy, students and lecturers, who were already taking their first lecture rushed for their lives. As a result of this, within a few seconds, an unexpected assemblage of students had taken place before the Head of Department of Mass Communication, Mr. Jide Johnson came to allay

From Morenikeji Odulana NIJ

the fear of the students, assuring them that it was a mere alarm and that the school authority had security measures in place to forestall any fire accident. Johnson said: “While I commend the bravery of you students for acting promptly, let me use this opportunity to assure you of the fact that the management of NIJ under our able provost, Dr. Elizabeth Ikem has put measures in place to protect the school from any fire disaster.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE

UNILORIN goes to the polls today Office seekers at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) Students’ Union Government (SUG) will slug it out at the polls today. BAKARE WALE (200-Level Zoology) writes.

CADEMIC activities in the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) will, today, be brought to a halt. For the past few days, the campus has been bubbling with activities to elect new leaders into the Students’ Union Government (SUG). Always, the race to Kaduna Nzeogwu Building, the Students’ Union House, is full of intrigues and backstabbing. As usual, there are more contestants jostling for the number one seat of the union. The method of nomination has been upped by the school management from the old ways. Any student that must stand for elective post in the institution must be responsible and brainy, with the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.5 and above. Following the ratification by members of the Students Representative Councils (SRC) during their sitting on May 9, 2011, members of the Independent Student Electoral Committee (ISEC), with two representatives from each faculty, were constituted and chaired by Asim Togunde, a 400-Level Physiology student. No sooner had the ban placed on politics was lifted last week following the constitution of ISEC than posters, banners and political campaigns began on the campus. From classroom to classroom, hostel to hostel campaign and from main campus to the mini campus, aspirants were seen canvassing for support of their fellow students to win the poll. Some aspirants produced

T-shirts, fez caps and hand bands to outdo their opponents in winning voters’ confidence. Office of the Public Relations Officer (PRO) has the highest number of aspirants jostling for the position. There are six students contesting for the post. Four candidates are gunning for the position of the union president. Only two contestants are competing for the position of the Assistant General Secretary. Some of the aspirants spoke to CAMPUSLIFE on their programmes. Malomo Oba, 300-Level English Education, who is contesting for Welfare Director, said: “Reality comes first like a dream before it is contextualised. If I am elected, I will ensure that there is a radical change to solve the transportation and accommodation problems of the students.” Titilope Akogun, 400-Level Law, contesting for the office of PRO, said: “Many aspirants have promised students different things but I must say that it takes more than promises to effect change in the area of students’ welfare. Efficiency and effective dissemination of information to advance the cause of the students take will.” Abdulrahman Abdulraheem, 400Level Law, who is standing for the position of General Secretary, said his agenda is “operation kick against mediocrity.” He said: “I am determined to transform the archaic method of documenting files to adopt the e-storage and establish the union library. I am not only interested winning but to

•UNILORIN SUG building

•Abayomi

bring a great changed.” Abayomi Kolapo, 300-Level Political Science, who wants to lead the union as the president, said: “UNILORIN is too sophisticated to be left in the hands of mediocre aspirants. We cannot compromise our integrity for mediocrity and

On and Off Campus By Solomon Izekor 08061522600

•Abdulrahman

•Akogun

this is why the students of this institution must define their destiny and make the right decision at the poll.” Abayomi said he would ensure students are given good accommodation and better transportation system if elected. But his op-

ponents also promise to pursue the same programmes if elected into office. However, as the UNILORIN students vote for the new leadership of the SUG today, it appears that only the popular among the aspirants will eventually carry the day.

Firm gives scholarship to students

From Gerald Nwokocha NYSC ABUJA

FRIHUB, an Information Communication Technology company, last Saturday held its Seventh scholarship programme for ICT packages. The programme commenced since 2010 and holds three times yearly. The exercise takes place at AfriHUB centres situated in various campuses nationwide. Participants were students of various institutions, corps members and the general public. In Abuja, the exercise took place at AfriHUB ICT Corporate Headquarters, AP Plaza, Wuse 2, Abuja and AfriHUB at University of Abuja campus. Before the exercise, the Deputy General Manager of the company, Mr Ese Egerega told the candidates that AfriHUB is a household name in ICT. He stated that in 2006, the Federal Government of Nigeria gave AfriHUB the mandate to build and equip ICT facilities in all campuses nationwide. He said the agreement was also to train staff and students in higher institutions on basic ICT practical knowledge. According to him, the task has not been easy since then as AfriHUB is yet to cover all campuses nationwide. For now, he said AfriHUB has over 20 centers nationwide. He went further to state that AfriHUB has devoted itself to train Nigerians on ICT professional packages free of charge as a scholarship. Mr Ese also said that the world is moving tremendously ICT wise and nobody should be left behind. Your course of study should not be a barrier because every sector of the economy has something to do with

ICT. He said any candidate that scored 80 and above would be given grade A and that is automatic free scholarship to study any of the computer packages. But those that scored B and C will be required to pay 15% of the total price for such computer package. Candidates that enrolled for the scholarship at Abuja centres were 980.They jostled to make it because the scholarship programme has provided them the opportunity to learn the professional courses they have long desired. Mr Udoh Enefiok, the training Manager and Mr Livinus Ugwuonu (CISCO Trainer) took time to explain the meaning and benefits of each professional course that were advertised in the scholarship. This allowed the candidates the opportunity to ask questions on the courses. The exercise began at about 10am and lasted till 3pm. There were three batches for the exam. Each batch took 1 hour each for the examination. The exam was based on mathematics, English Language, Computer knowledge, Current Affairs, logical and quantitative reasoning. They were 50 questions and candidates were rated over 100%. At the end of the exercise, scripts were marked and many candidates made it. For those whose centers were AfriHUB head office, Wuse 2 Abuja, 21 candidates emerged the best by getting grade A in the exercise while 39 got grade B. For those that got A, they had been awarded full time scholarship to do any of the professional courses free of charge.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION CHILDREN'S DAY

Expert urges govt to treat teachers well

DUCATION consultant and teacher at the Redeemers University, Ogun State Dr Sojinu Olatunbosun has urged governments at various levels to seize the Children's Day season to review the conditions of teachers nationwide. He said though Children's Day focuses on children, a searchlight should also be beamed on teachers as they serve as second parents to pupils, and are capable of influencing them positively for greater academic performance. He spoke on teachers as mechanism for development: Children's perspective at the Children's day funfair organised by the Badagry Local Government, Lagos State. "When you see the government policies on education, it put teachers in the background; even the MDGs (Millennium Development Goals) do not give a place to teachers. This is a misplaced priority, because the children, as we know, are at the receiving end of everything. If we, as parents, handled the children alone, it may not have much impact; but teachers are better of doing that because they are instruments that influence the children most. "Look at developed societies today, the reason for their development is the respect they accord to teachers. No nation can rise above her quality of its education. For me, the Children Day should be an avenue to also draw the attention of the authorities on the need to review their welfare. We

By Adegunle Olugbamila

know government is trying but they can do more," he said. Olatunbosun, who lectures at RUN, encouraged teachers to take their job more responsibly as they are capable of making or marring the future of the children in their care. "Our output can't be good if our input is poor. If our teachers are not good, we can't have good products." He commended the government for its efforts in the attainments of the MDGs for education. "I think the basic challenge is valid estimate. I will advise the government to pay more attention to having valid statistics to know how many children are either in or out of school. We also need to look at quality. Innovations such as ICT (Information and Communication Technology) are commonplace. The government needs not rest on its oars." The chairperson of the council Mrs Husitode Olubukola Yemison said the council this time, decided to drift away from the usual Children's Day party, to have a mentoring clinic on issues such as good morality, sex education, HIV/AIDS, among others. She noted that the gathering, which also comprised parents and teachers was to further promote interactions among the various stakeholders with the aim of fostering a better relationship that can improve on the pupils. "We had usually had Children's Day every year but this time, we decide to make it more elaborate involving parents and teachers as mechanic for development.”

Ministry harps on culture

HE Lagos State Ministry of Education has charged pupils in the state to cherish the country's rich cultural heritage to prepare themselves for future challenges. At the Cultural Display of talents organised as part of Children’s day at the Oregun Senior High School, Ikeja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Mrs. Omolara Erogbogbo stressed the need to salvage the nation’s cultures before they become extinct. According to her, "we should come back to our rich cultures so that we can leave them for these future leaders." She reiterated that the nation's culture should show in pupils' dressing, hair-do, music and in other areas. She noted the messages that each cultural display teaches, and urged the children to shun vices that can deter their future progress.

Mrs Erogbogbo reminded the children of all that the state government has done to give them qualitative education through construction and renovation of more classrooms, provision of furniture, free textbooks in core subjects, payment of West African Secondary Schoool Certificate Examinations (WASSC) fees and many more, urging them to study hard to improve their performances in both internal and external examinations as that can only be a way of inspiring government to do more. Activities displayed by the pupils and students drawn from the state Education Districts include comic review, Ewi (Yoruba poetry), sketch drama, hunters dance, fashion parade, storytelling, Fanti display among others. The event, which was well-attended had dignitaries from the state ministries, and directors from the Ministry of Education and school principals in attendance.

• Ekiti State Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi taking a salute from pupils of Police Children's School, Ado-Ekiti, during the Children's Day Celebration in Ado-Ekiti.

•Childrens at the DSTV Children’s Day celebration party at ADRAO International School, Victoria Island.

• From left: (Back Row):Marketing Executive, British Airways Nigeria, Mrs. Nneka Ukay; Diane Johnson of Shuga Lim Foundation (SLM); Patron, Nigeria-Britain Association, Mr Philip Obe; his wife, Caroline; President, SLF Mr Akinloye Tofowomo, and President, Nigeria-British Association, Mr Tunde Arogomati (far right) during a party organised by British Airways, SLF and Nigeria-British Association for polio survivor children and children with mobility impediments as part of the Children's Day celebrations, at Ikeja Saddle Club, Omole Phase II, Lagos.

Edu. Perm. Sec advises on career

HE Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Mrs. Omolara Erogbogbo has advised pupils to take advantage of the rare opportunity of the career talk organised by the ministry to make decisions on their career choice. She said this during the Youth Forum and Career talk for pupils, which was part of a weeklong children's day celebration at Maryland, Lagos. According to her, the state government will continue to provide the enabling environment for teaching and learning and to provide basic necessities that will encourage them to read. Mrs. Erogbogbo called on parents to guide and support their children by taking more interest

in their well-being and academic performance as government cannot do it alone. Highlights of the occasion were career talk by facilitators from different professions such as pharmacy, insurance, agriculture, information communication technology, and medicine etc. The children were educated on the advantages of each profession, subjects that are required for study for a career, and were advised to strive to learn a vocation so that they can be independent, identify where their interest lies so that they will know what they can do as career. The children were entertained by fellow pupils with dance drama performance.

• Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, and his wife, Olukemi, rejoicing with children at the Children's Day Celebration at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Akure.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION NNPC, ESSO donate facilities to school By Akinyemi Oluwayemisi

SSO Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL), a subsidiary of ExxonMobil Producing Nigeria, in conjunction with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has reconstructed and donated a modern Introductory-Technology laboratory and toilet facilities to Reagan Memorial Baptist Girls Secondary School, Yaba in Lagos. At the opening of the facilities, the General Manager Public and Government Affairs ExxonMobil Producing Nigeria Mrs. Gloria Danner said the essence of the donation is to create a conducive learning environment for the pupils and the teacher as part of the company's commitment to give back to the society by improving education and developing intellectual capacity in the country. The project, which Danner put at N24.4million, comprises projector/ screen and original AutoCAD software, a comprehensive renovation of the old dilapidated Laboratory into a modern workshop, fitted with large tables, imported steel plastic chairs, ceiling fans, a partitioned office room furnished with work desk, three chairs and 19 inches' desk top computer, a freshly constructed toilet facilities consisting of six toilets and two bathroom compartments among others. The Manager, Public Affairs, National Petroleum Investment Management Service (NAPIMS), Mr Kennie Obateru, who was represented by its Group Manager, said investing in the educational sector was a fundamental aspect of the organisation's social responsibility and sustainable development programmes. He urged the school management to make proper use of the facilities adding, "It is only by so doing that huge investment made in putting them in place would be justified." The Principal, Mrs Titilayo Amune, said prior to the companies' intervention, the state of the school was pitiable. She therefore thanked ExxonMobil and NAPIMS for putting the school in mind.

POLY FILE Ado poly for NBTE accreditation THE National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) accreditation for the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti will soon begin. A statement issued on behalf of the institution's Accreditation Committee by Ade AdeyemiAdejolu, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, said preparations were on to receive the team for the exercise. According to him, a total of 16 programmes cutting across ND and HND levels in eight academic departments, are to be visited by the team for the one-week exercise. The departments include Banking and Finance; Marketing; Agric. Technology, Agric. Engineering; Civil Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Quantity Surveying and Food Technology. Meanwhile, the Polytechnic’s first semester examination for its ND I, HND I and HND 2 Full-Time students, has been postponed by two weeks for the ND II students who are to begin their exam on Monday, June 4. He said the reason for the postponement was to enable the ND II full-time students to complete their lectures and revision because of their late resumption as a result of the ND I SIWES programme, which ended in March.

SCHOLARSHIPS APPROACHING DEADLINES ADB-Japan Scholarship Program for Asians and Pacific Islanders ADB/Japan Government MS/PhD Degree Deadline: varies Study in: Asia, Australia, USA Course starts 2012 Brief description: The Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Programme (ADB-JSP) was established in April 1988 with financing from the Government of Japan. It aims to provide an opportunity for well-qualified citizens of ADB's developing member countries to undertake postgraduate studies in economics, management, science and technology, and other developmentrelated fields at participating academic institutions in the Asian and Pacific Region. Upon completion of their study programs, scholars are expected to contribute to the economic and social development of their home countries. Host Institution(s): ADB-JSP provides scholarships only to participating academic institutions under the Program. Field(s) of study: Programs covered by the ADB-JSP are postgraduate studies in economics, management, health, education, agriculture, environment, natural resource management, science and technology, and other development-related fields. Only programmes at the 20 participating academic institutions in the Asian and Pacific Regions are eligible for ADB-JSP funding. Number of Scholarships: About 300 scholarships are awarded annually. Target group: The scholarships are open to citizens of ADB's developing member countries. Scholarship value/inclusions: The ADB-JSP provides full tuition fees, a monthly subsistence and housing allowance, an allowance for books and instructional materials, medical insurance, and travel expenses. For scholars engaged in research, a special grant may be available for thesis preparation. In special circumstances computer literacy, preparatory language and other similar courses may be covered under the scholarship. The scholarship is for one year with an extension to the second year of study, as

appropriate, which shall be conditional on the scholar maintaining a satisfactory level of performance as determined by the institute. The maximum duration of scholarship award is two years for masters and doctorate programs. Eligibility: 1. A national of an ADB borrowing member country (applicants from countries that are no longer borrowing from ADB are not eligible for the ADBJSP Scholarship). 2. Gained admission to an approved MA/PhD course at an academic institution . 3. A bachelor's degree or its equivalent with superior academic record. 4. At least two (2) years of full-time professional working experience (acquired after a university degree) at the time of application. Proficiency in oral and written English communication skills to be able to pursue studies. 5. Not more than 35 years old at the time of application. In exceptional cases, for programmes which are appropriate for senior officials and managers, the age limit is 45 years old. 6. In good health. 7. Should agree to return to his/her home country after completion of studies under the Program. 8. Executive Directors, Alternate Directors, management and staff of ADB, consultants, and relatives of the aforementioned are not eligible for the Scholarship. 9. Staff of academic institutions are not eligible for the Scholarship. 10. Applicants living or working in a country other than his/her home country are not eligible for scholarships. 11. ADB-JSP does not support applicants who are already enrolled in graduate degree programmes. 12. ADB-JSP does not sponsor undergraduate studies, distance learning programs, short-term training, conferences, seminars, thesis writing, and research projects. Application instructions: The procedure in applying for ADB-JSP Scholarships is outlined below: 1. Applicants should request information and application forms from the chosen Academic Institution(s. Applicants are encouraged to access various resources, including the institutions' websites and handbooks, and institution information sessions held in-country, to assist them in making an informed decision on the academic institution and course they wish to undertake. 2. Applicants should indicate to

the academic institution that they are applying for admission and that they would like to be considered for the ADB-JSP Scholarship. The completed Institution application form and required documentation, including the ADB-JSP Information Sheet form, should be submitted to the academic institution. Applicants must ensure that they submit accurate and complete documentation. Failure to do so may result in an application not being processed or to an award being terminated if documentation or information provided is later determined to be false. Applicants are required to submit their latest Income Tax Return or Certification of their Annual Salary/ Monthly Salary, whichever is available. They should also submit a Certification of Family Income (Parent's Income). 3. The academic institution will screen and rank the applicants, based on its own selection criteria, keeping in view the eligibility requirements and selection criteria of the ADB. In the evaluation process, the academic institution may contact the candidates for further information. The academic institution will then submit its ranked list of applicants to ADB, including a description of the score/grading system which is the basis for the ranking. 4. ADB will review the submission from the academic institutions and recommend awardees based on the selection criteria of ADB to the Executive Director of Japan for formal approval. 5. Upon approval by the Executive Director of Japan, ADB will advise academic institutions on the successful candidates. 6. The academic institution will inform all applicants of the outcome of the selection process and begin to make arrangements for the awardees take up their scholarships. 7. The academic institutions will arrange for the signing of the Acceptance of Scholarship Award by awardee wherein the scholars agree that after completion of their study, they will return to their home country. 8. ADB will send an appropriate congratulatory letter to each scholar. No separate application to ADB is necessary. Send applications for scholarships at least six months prior to the planned time that you wish to commence studies. Please refer to the normal month of intake and deadline of application in the participating academic institutions. It is important to visit the official website (link

ASCON is 40 •Promises better delivery

HE Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) is 40 years old. The planned anniversary coincided with the college’s graduation last week.The college was established on May 25, 1972. Fifteen-one participants, who studied different courses, passed out at the event. At the closing ceremony, the college’s Director-General Mr Ajibade Peters assured the college is advancing and ready to take its rightful place as the best in Africa. "This anniversary has given us joy," Peters said. "But above all, it has given us a challenge to rededicate ourselves to developing personnel in the civil service to be leaders in their responsibilities and also to be a part of the engine for the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan's administration.” Ajibade, who was represented on the occasion by the Director of Studies /Head of Programmes Public Administration Mrs Cecilia Umaru Gaya uged the participants to consolidate on the two-week training in their various duty posts adding: "The civil service is in constant need of officers who can match adequate knowledge and skills with dedication and commitment to the service.” He added: "Your training in ASCON was meant to sharpen your skills and knowledge and where necessary your attitude, to enable you to deal with the day-to-day challenges that you will meet in

• Mrs Gaya presenting a certificate to one of the participants in the Financial Management course Mrs Jane Obiageli Ifeado By Adegunle Olugbamila

your work environment. The challenges, I must say, seem to be increasing in Nigeria. "Let me remind you, therefore, you all have a very high stakes in the life of this nation as leaders. The incessant security challenges, unemployment and their attendant consequences are only indication of the need to redefine leadership as a collective responsibility or rather than of a single person or group of persons. "I want to assure you that a bigger responsibility lies on your shoulder to provide the much-

needed leadership in your homes, small gatherings, offices, places of worship and wherever you may find yourselves. Mrs Gaya admonished them to hurry slowly as the training they had just acquired might have ignited in them a fire of eagerness to want to effect change immediately in their various work places. "I am aware of a problem known as re-entry problem that await you in your various work places. Participants from various courses often nurse a new found eagerness to resume work with a desire to change the way things are done. I will appeal to you not to hurry

slowly in attempting to change existing situations. In your desire to change things for the better, you need to be humble, realistic and diplomatic otherwise, you may end up in conflict with your superiors and other colleagues who may be too used in a particular way of doing things, as the saying goes: slow and steady wins the race.” In all, 29 participants graduated from the General Management course; four in Advance Public Enterprises Management; two in Conflict Management and Resolution; four in Facilities Maintenance Management and 14 in Financial Management, making a total of 54 participants.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION

•Opeyemi (left) receiving her award from Pastor Kpandei

Redeemed Church rewards best SSCE candidate

HE best 2011 West African Senior Secondary Exam (WASSCE) candidate Miss Adeloye Christianah Opeyemi has received the first-ever achievers’ award of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lagos Province 16. She was given N200,000, a plaque, among other prizes. Opeyemi, 18, a member of the church, who also scored 301 in Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and 269 in the post-UTME and is studying Medicine at the University of Ibadan.

By Medinat Kanabe

Speaking at the headquarters of the church in Victoria Island, Lagos, its Pastor Charles Kpandei said from this year the best five candidates in WASSCE from the province would get awards. He said: "The best five candidates in the UTME from this province will receive awards. This is why we are setting up three centres in Agege, Ketu and our headquarters where pupils will receive lessons for free in preparation for the exams."

Fashola restates commitment to education

AGOS State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has called on Nigerians not only to celebrate the Children's Day with fun but also used the avenue to remind themselves of their responsibilities to them. In his address at the Children's Day parade at the Police College, Ikeja, he assured that the state would not relent in its efforts to give children in the state their pride of place. Said Fashola: "You (children) are our strength, and every Children's Day anniversary should serve as a reminder to us not just to celebrate you, but it must remind us of our duty to be committed to their development and interest irrevocably and unconditionally.” Fashola said the untiring efforts of the state in education have been paying off with pupils making the state proud in various local and international competitions. He urged the children to spare a thought for their less fortunate peers and be their brothers keeper. The governor said the government is undertaking massive renovations of public schools across the state to make learning more conducive.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Director Osun State Ministry of Education, and President West Africa School Sports Union Dr Thomas Olaiya said he was happy to felicitate with Opeyemi’s performance Olaiya, who represented the Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, said the government of Osun believes in excellence and is happy to associate with the award. He said: "You (Opeyemi) are a role model to all young ones, to all Nigerian youths and to all students in West Africa and beyond." He urged students, teachers, religious bodies and the community to join hands to fight the menace of examination malpractice. In her remarks, the Assistant Director, Lagos State Ministry of Education Mrs Shade Aderigbigbe who spoke on the topic: You too can make it, said whoever, dreams to climb up in life must anchor everything on God and not indulge in frivolities. She said making it in life requires some ingredients. "These ingredients are faith, fear of God, choosing good, working with a vision, prayer, hard work and diligence, wisdom and steadfastness, setting a goal and being disciplined, among others and don't keep bad company," he added. In his speech, Stanley Ohanugo, author of Disciples of inverted cross, and former cult member in his undergraduate days, advised the over 1,000 children in attendance not to get involved in cultism. Opeyemi's mother Mrs Adeloye Oluwatoyin thanked God for her daughter’s performance. She said Opeyemi has been a brilliant pupil from her childhood. "Even in her pre-school days after she started talking, she used to carry a book around the house, saying: 'Mary Mary'. She wouldn't allow anyone take the book away from her. She always went to bed holding the book tight to her. Everyone at home started calling the book Mary Mary." Mrs Oluwatoyin, who hinted that Opeyemi started from Emmanuel Nursery and Primary School in Abeokuta North, Ilewo-Orile, advised parents to always pray for their children, and take notice of any good potentials they exhibit from childhood. Recalling her road to victory, she said when she wanted to write her WASSCE, she listed out the subjects in a piece of paper and would take it to church always. "I brought it out every time I was in church to pray on it. I told God I wanted A1 in my entire subject and it worked," he added.

Fed Govt plans vocational skills for Almajiri

HE Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development is to develop vocational skills that would key into the government's almajiri education. Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Zainab Maina, who spoke in Abuja, called on states that are yet to pass the Child Rights Act to do so. She urged states that have passed the Acts to ensure its implementation to save future generation from exploitation, abuse, violence and death. Speaking on the theme of the celebration: Let us build a culture of peace and security for the Nigerian child, the minister said there is need to strengthen sustained efforts and strategies to create a peaceful and secure environment for the development of the Nigerian child.

•Minister of Education, Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i

Prof

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

She added that the theme was also a wake up call to remind Nigerians of their responsibilities to the Nigerian child, their rights, not only to good health, nutrition and education but also their rights to peace, security and freedom from violence and exploitation. "The theme is intended to create an opportunity for advocating and sensitising stakeholders that conflicts are potential threats to the psychological growth, survival and development of children," she added.

Kwankwanso inaugurates committee on private schools From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

•Governor Kwankwanso

O re-invigorate the education sector for enhanced service delivery in the state, Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has inaugurated a 10-man task force on private schools. It is to streamline their operations, modalities and level of conformity with laws that govern their activities. Inaugurating the task force in his office, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Dr Rabiu Suleiman Bichi said Kwankwaso's administration has invested much in the education sub-sector with the establishment of two new universities, reintroduction of Community ReOrientation Committee (CRC), free feeding programme in all primary schools in the state, provision of school uniforms and other interventions, aimed at strengthening the sectors. He explained that with such huge investment, it became necessary for

the government to inaugurate the task force and charged it with streamlining the operations and activities of private schools to determine their facilities as well as their level of conformity with relevant laws governing their operations. Bichi reiterated that members of the task force were carefully selected, considering their vast experience in life and charged them to discharge their assignment with dedication and vigour, to come up with far-reaching recommendations that will enable teh government to chart an enviable course for education in the state. He urged them to be steadfast and discharge their assignment in tandem with the vision of Governor Kwankwaso. The Task Force’ Chairman is Alhaji Baba Umar. He promised that he and his members would discharge their duties without fear or favour. He appealed for support and assistance from stakeholders, especially owners of private schools in the state in the discharge of the task force assignment diligently.

By Adegunle Olugbamila

Fashola urged the children to ensure the property is well-maintained. “We are upgrading your schools with necessary facilities to make learning more conducive and productive. I expect that you also look after these facilities into proper use remembering that they were paid for by the parents' taxes,” Fashola said. The state, Fashola further stressed, is developing the technical and vocational education to encourage prospective pupils intending to be engineers and artisans in the state He added that children with special needs are not left out as the state is committed to bringing out the best in them now and in the near future with the establishment of schools. He thanked teachers also for their endeavors at producing children than can compete with their peers globally. He thanked his wife Abimbola for her efforts in promoting parenthood and attention to children's welfare. He also thanked the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials for their contribution in producing worthy children in the state.

• Gov. Fashola (middle) with the state Commissioner for Education Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye (2nd right), Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs Omolara Erogbogbo (left) and Secretary to the State Government Mrs Adebule Oluranti (2nd left) with some pupils cutting the Children's Day anniversary cake. PHOTO: ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EDUCATION

Oyo to establish technical varsity From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan •Governor Ajimobi

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has disclosed his administration’s plan to establish a technical university to complement admission placements offered by the Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomoso (LAUTECH). The governor announced this at the opening of the state education summit entitled: Developing a sustainable transformation plan for education in Oyo State in Ibadan. Ajimobi said the institution would provide more admission places to youths in the state who are seeking tertiary education. He lamented that the state, which was known to set the pace in education, culture and others, is appearing near the bottom of the table. He said his administration was determined to develop and follow a blueprint for reviving the glory of education in the state. He listed the steps taken by his administration to restore quality such as provision of facilities, motivation of teachers as well as organising free extra-mural classes for pupils preparing for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE). He said: "Last year, we reduced the tuition fees in our tertiary institutions to keep our teeming youths in school. Although we jointly own the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology,

TELECOMS firm Etisalat Nigeria Limited has opened the Rabiatu Thompson Memorial Primary School, Surulere, Lagos. The school was adopted by the firm in 2008, following the AdoptOur-School initiative by the Lagos State government to improve public schools in the state. However, the schools which had just one dilapidated building at the time of its adoption, now has four new buildings to itself. Speaking to reporters at the school's premises, its Chief Executive Officer Mr Stevens Evans recalled how the journey started three years ago. He said: "When we came to Lagos, we met Governor Raji

Ogbomoso with Osun State. We are establishing a technical university to provide more spaces for our youths in search of tertiary education. In our quest to ensure that those who cannot have tertiary education are not denied access to requisite skill to earn a decent living, we are building vocational and skill acquisition centres in all the three senatorial zones of the state. "This summit is a wake-up call on all stakeholders. We cannot continue to engage in the drudgery of abetting failure. The story that the above statistics tells us is that our public schools system is peopled with children who are not only woefully unprepared for any type of post-secondary academic work, but who .... "We must ensure that we have well-funded schools with the right curriculum structure, develop the right incentives and motivation for teachers; train the trainers and ensure that we boost our capacity to train our children in an atmosphere where innovation and productivity thrive. "We must nurture and celebrate excellence. A note of warning to us all: it is high time we threw overboard the practices that led us to where we are today, by clearly defining where we want to be. Part of the deliverables we have set for this summit is to clearly define a strategic, implementable and scalable plan to restore education in Oyo State."

• Deputy Governor, Delta State, Prof Amos Utuama; Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, Chairman of Committee of Pro-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities Dr Wale Babalakin (SAN) at the inauguration of the national headquarters of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU).

How lack of good text books, others affects performance

HE Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Africana First Publishers (AFP) Mr Austin Onwubiko has said lack of good textbooks and certain teaching methods being applied by teachers are major factor affecting pupils'performances. He said this at a science education workshop organised by the Africana First Publishers Plc, at the Nigerian International Book Fair at the University of Lagos, where the new curriculum for science

Etisalat inaugurates school By Medinat Kanabe

Fashola, who told us about his plans including the Adopt-aSchool plan, and we decided to partner with him. It is such a great pleasure to see the school today and see what an environment has been created." In her speech, the Commissioner for Education Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye said there is no gainsaying that Etisalat is a responsive and socially responsible corporate organisation "which responded to our clarion call by giving the school a new look and, indeed, a new lease of life and by extension, a renewed hope and up scaled the

confidence in our pupils." Headmaster of the school Samuel Ikenga said: "I am so excited. I met this place as a dustbin in 2009 when I was posted here. Armed robbers used to hide their guns here; cultists used this place as a meeting ground; footballers used here as their field. I started fighting them until the then deputy governor sent a circular that anyone apprehended will spend six months in jail; then they stopped. "Thank God that Etisalat has made this place the best and neatest public school. Other telecommunication companies should emulate them.”

By Seun Olalude

subjects in senior school was also unveiled. Among other key factors, Mr Onwubiko said lack of good textbooks is one. He said: "Lack of quality text books is one. Another major reason for this poor performance is the teachers' method of teaching. Most teachers of these subjects have long been accused of their outdated method of teaching which many pupils find very boring and uninteresting. “Some of these teachers are not well-versed in these subjects and, therefore, teach only areas they are very conversant with and ignore the others. They lack commitment and new orientation.It simply means that you cannot offer what do not have." He however assured the new curriculum would give birth to a better result in sciences subjects. "The curriculum was compiled by authors from the country and abroad. It is our belief that this will give a new approach in the teaching of these noble subjects, to ensure better results in the future," he said. A Professor of Chemistry at the University of Benin Mary Edema urged teachers to always supervise their pupils. Recalling her days as a young teacher, Edema lamented certain attitudes of science teachers.

"You could imagine a chemistry teacher sitting down to teach while the pupils are busy doing something else. Chemistry is a practical subject, as a teacher, you need to move around. Always prepare the mind of your pupils for every class. Ask them questions about the last class and give them assignment about the topic to be treated in the next to enhance their participation," she advised. She believes pupils' success also translates to teachers'. "As a teacher when it is only 40 per cent of your pupils that pass an exam, it means you have also failed. "Back in the days as a chemistry teacher in secondary school, I and other science teachers ensured sure we gave our pupils all they needed, since we would not be available for them at the examination hall. Make sure you give your students all you think will help them in the class room before exams comes," she advised. Principal, Onitsha High School Onitsha Mrs Juliana Ofoefuna , who spke on the rate of exam malpractice said the contributions of the stakeholders could not be over-emphasised. One of the participants Miss Charity Ebonugwo lauded the new curriculum. She said the workshop has served as an eye opener. "The workshop has opened my eyes to new inventions in the teaching of science subjects which I know will bring positive change in pupils' results," she said.

Anyim for students conference

•Former Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Prof Oladipo Akinkugbe (left) welcoming the founder / proprietor Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola and wife Modupe during the university's Second Distinguished Afe Babalola Lecture with the theme “Saving the African University from itself”, at the university premises.

LL is now set for the First International Student Finance Conference in Nigeria which holds on Monday, June 7 at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Ikeja. The event tagged Revolution on funding education. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, will deliver the keynote address. The conference is to address the challenges of student financing in tertiary institutions. It is expected that given the wealth of experience of invited speakers and resource persons for the conference, it will be able to address its key objectivesdevelop a market for student financing and bridge the financing gap for student education, while

exploring funding opportunity for our tertiary education institutions, to improve the quality of student education in Nigeria. International resource persons expected include Director, Global Center on Private Financing of Higher Education, Washington DC, USA Dr. Tom Parker and former CEO, South African National Student Financial Aid Scheme Mr Roy Jackson. Other lead speakers are former Vice- President Alex Ekwueme; Governor of Lagos State and Chief Host, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN); Chairman, Senate Committee on Education Senator Uche Chukwumerije; Minister of Education Prof Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai; and Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NATURAL HEALTH

The big V.D. and the small V.D A

N obvious loose end occurred in last week's column (Sex, as an elixir and poison), which I knew many women would not fail to notice. Along the line, I mentioned the big V.D., which I said was by no means venereal disease, but vagina dryness, and promised to address if space permitted. I left the matter hanging, space permitting no further comment. And as I expected, I got some knocks for that in a way similar to the reply Jim McClellan got from an old female viewer of one of his television programmes. Judy Lindberg McFarland reported this issue in her book, AGING WITHOUT GROWING OLD. As they were knocking out for a break, Jim told the audience, "when we come back, we'll talk about the big V.D," and then whispered "Vagina Dryness". Everyone laughed. An old woman was to write to Judy, asking that she tell Jim vagina dryness wasn't funnyâ&#x20AC;Ś "I have it and it hurts," she said. More than men, women do not hide their feelings in health matters, especially when they affect their sexual lives. They spoke, and I agreed to tie this loose end. Many women notice this problem when they begin to experience pain during sexual intercourse. The vagina may be so dry that penile friction bruises it, causing pain, bleeding and, later, infection of the exposed parts. Some women do not experience pain, but are embarrassed, or feel guilty, that they are a failed sexual partner. Many Nigerian men are not known to help matters. They do not know how to pet such women, give assurances that the misfortune would not affect the relationship, and actually help them out of it. On the other hand, women carry the sexual problems of their spouses on their heads, searching health food stores for solutions to such problems as erectile dysfunction, sexual exhaustion, low sperm count and things like that. Vagina dryness used to be a menopausal issue which came along with the decrease of estrogen supply to this vault as well as poor blood circulation there. These menopausal features would be followed, of course, by opportunistic conditions, largely infections, which take advantage of the change of life to prey. Nowadays, however, many young women board the boat in their 30s and early 40s. One of the reasons gynaecologists suggest for this is that they are far more exposed to sexual intercourse than women of the older generation, making their secret places more vulnerable to alkalinasation by frequent ejaculation of sperm into it. These women may be shocked to learn that, while the sperm of their spouses may be healthy, the alkalinity, at about 9 p H, disturbs the acidic environment the virgina requires to protect itself against infections agents, especially Candida. We may come to this later. Arguably, this is the most prized part of a woman's visible prolife. It is formed by many layers of cells which depend on hormonal nurture as well as nutrients in the blood circulation for their well-being. The hormones most crucial for their health are estrogen and progesterone, produced largely by the ovaries, and, to some extent, streaks of testosterone, the male dominant hormone, and DHEA, a precursor of these hormones. Estrogen level in the blood peak in the first two weeks of the menstrual cycle, which progesterone takes over in the second half. As Dr. Holda Clark explains it in THE CURE FOR ALL DISEASES: "During your fertile years, you were meant to have a peak of 100 pictograms/milliliter (pg./ml) of estrogen on day nine and day 22 of your cycle. Progesterone, on the other hand, only peaks once, on day 22, and it should reach a level 20 to 100 times as high as estrogen. After this ends, your adrenals can still keep your hormone level regulated typical values are 20 ng/ml estrogen and, again, 20 to 100 times as mush progesterone. Keeping these two hormones in balance is just as important as the actual amount. Twenty pg/ml estrogen is enough to prevent menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, and to give your heart protection and bone density protection ANY Nigerian menopausal women do not get enough estrogen produced by their adrenal glands, which are supposed to add estrogen production to their functions list once the ovaries stop making enough of it. Fat cells in the thighs and buttocks do compensate for the 40-60 per cent shortfall from the ovaries. But these produce estrione (estrogen E 1), the harshest of the three estrogen fractions of Estrione, Estradiol and Estriol. A well-functioning thyroid gland would be required to re-arrange the ratios of these estrogen 'sisters' in favour of estriol, the most body friendly. But in many cases, the thyroid is under active. Estrogen acts as a growth hormone, stimulating or over stimulating ovaries and uterus, sometimes causing cancers and uterine fibroids, salt retention and bloating, headache, depression, thyroid dysfunction, blood thickening and clotting and loss of 2mc. Excess estrogen may also decrease libido and sex drive. Progesterone is protective where estrogen is offensive, acting in the opposite direction of estrogen as a sort of counter pole to always keep the balance. Progesterone would ensure adequate tissue oxygenation, which is anti-cancer, embryo survival, and restores blood sugar balance and sex drive, for example. A harmonicons balance of the healthy ratios of estrogen and progesterone is, therefore, necessary for vagina health. Inside the vagina, there are many organisms, friendly and unfriendly; the unfriendly ones, such as fungi, mold, Candida, gardnerella, Chlamydia, trochomonas, protozoans, do not cause trouble for as long as estrogen and progesterone are balanced. Together, they guarantee a slightly acidic environment and virile immune function

it is antibody introduced into the anus during anal sex which triggers HIV-AIDS by suppressing immune functions in oral and anal sex-enjoying people, since Nature didn't anticipate this lifestyle and protect these parts of the body against it. ELL, that was by the way, just to invite attention to some havocs wrong sex life styles may inflict. Now, Dr. Northrup explains that, being a buffered alkaline fluid, an episode of vagina exposure to semen may make the vagina less optimally acidic for about eight hours. As she puts it: "When vagina pH is higher than normal for long periods, the bacterial balance can be lost.These organisms that are normally present only in small numbers can begin to grow and cause infection -like symptoms. If a woman makes love with ejaculation of semen into the vagina three times in 24hour period, her vagina will not return to its normal pH for that period. For some women, this is a set up for infection, particularly women who are in a long distance relationship and whose sex lives are sporadic and limited to increased acidity over a few days. To prevent problems, you can douche within a few hours of intercourse with Summer's Eve Medicated Douche which contains potassium iodide and lowers vagina pH. Or use a vinegar douche- one tablespoon per one quart of warm water." Some ideas are brewing in my head. Is this why some prostitutes do not seem to have vagina infections and many young women do? Prostitutes douche after seeing every client. Newlyweds log on all through the night and early morning. Economy-stricken young women jump into many beds in one day. They swarm health food stores in large numbers for remedies of all sorts of "toilet infections," as they selfdiagnose their conditions, little realising that, as Dr. Northrup suggests, sexual intercourse almost everyday has merely knocked out of balance the immune defences of their vagina. Their situations are worsened by body-clinging clothing, which obstructs and restricts air circulation, thereby causing dampness, exactly what germs require to proliferate. A wise, health conscious woman will not let a man use his fingers on her. Many men are scruffy, dirty. Do they wash their hands with soap after using the toilet? Even if they do, what of the bacteria filled toilet door knob they turned to open the door? Even the steering wheel of the cars they drive to their lovers nests are filled with bacteria! When the rules are disobeyed, germs of all kinds have a field day in the vagina, eating up the cornified layers and producing itching and burning sensation in addition to discharges which may be clear, greenish, yellowish or creamy, odourless or smelling like cheese or fish or rotten egg.

which keep the predators in check. Stress, like bad diet, upset this hormonal balance. If is difficult for me to add the aging process as a trigger for a menopausal hormonal imbalance which cause vagina dryness, thinning and infections. Japanese women, for example, have been found not to experience, the menopausal sorrows of Western women because their diet is different and natural. N uncompensated drop in estrogen level leaves the vagina not stimulated well enough to produce those secretions which keep it moist and check its resident germs. Women are familiar with these secretions which sometimes wet their panties. Even the cervix, the bridge between the vagina and the uterus, makes its own self-protecting secretions as well. Sometime, the mucus produced by the cervix to seal its opening to the vagina becomes so thick that it prevents sperm passage enroute to the uterus. Many couples face this trouble when they try to make a baby. Even if the woman stays in bed for hours after lovemaking, her lower body raised to prevent an outflow, everything literally "comes down" once she gets up. Yoruba call it eda (d:d.), signifying outpouring. Unless the woman in well-treated for vaginal infections in the cervix, it is doubtful if a pregnancy will occur as the mucoid barrier continues to bar access to the uterus. A significant loss of estrogen deprives the vaginal capacity for such protective secretions. In the ELEMENT FAMILY ENCYCLOPEDA OF HEALTH, author Dr. R. Sharma says "this leads to a dryness that can be both irritating and painful. Dr." Marilyn Glenville says in her NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO HRT: As hormonal levels change at the menonal, the vagina is affected. There is a tendency for the vaginal walls to become narrower and thinner and for the level of natural secretions accompanying sexual arousal to fall, which can make intercourse uncomfortable.This is one of those â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;use or lose it' situations. During lovemaking and orgasm, blood circulation is increased in the vagina and these can revive vaginal tissues. It is impotent to keep up a good intake of essential fatty acids in your food and not to go on a 'no fat' diet as you need the lubrication of these oil. A study in a gynaecological journal showed that supplementing with Vitamin E produced positive changes in the blood vessels in the vaginal walls after only four weeks. I have found insertion of Vitamin E to be more successful than taking it orally, hence the recommendation ... inset a Vitamin E capsule inside your vagina, every night for six weeks and after this time just use as you feel you need it" It is the bruising of blood vessels in a thin walled vagina by penile friction which often causes bleeding in menopausal women and younger women with sick or sickly vagina. Such vagina cells are the opposite of "cornified" vagina cells. These cornified are well estrogenised and healthy cells which are "tough and resilient," as gynaecologist Dr. Christiania Northrop M.D., describes them in her WOMEN'S BODY, WOMEN'S WISDOM. When the top cornified layers go, the blood vessels lying below them as in conduit piping are revealed. They easily buckle under pressure.

Too much sperm Dr. Northrup suggests that women who make love too often in one day or in a short period run the risks of loosing the cornified cells. This, I believe, is where young, sexually active women with well estrogenised bodies pick their own vagina problems from. The vagina is naturally mildly acidic to kill off germ invaders or to at least keep them inactive. At PH 9.0 , the sperm bearing male seminal fluid is highly alkaline on a 1-14 pH scale in which readings above seven is alkaline and below seven is acidic. Acidic seminal fluid will kill sperm as does excessive acidic vagina. The vagina would like to treat sperm as invaders and kill them with its antibodies. But Nature provides sperm with antibody, something like antiballistic missiles deployed against ballistic missiles, to suppress vagina antibodies and to help the sperm travel up to the egg. Dr. F Batmanghelidj has suggested that

e-mail: www. olufemikusa@yahoo.com

Remedies

AGINA dryness indicates a deficiency of vitamin A, among many nutritional needs.The mucus membrane loves vitamin A. Vitamin E, as suggested above, aids oxygenation (germ hate oxygen) and provides antioxidant protection. In cell salt medicine, silica is used if the discharge is profuse. Natrum mur, good for dryness, is indicated for clear discharges, ferrum phos. and cal. flour. if bloody kali. mur. is for grayish discharge, natrum phos., and kali sulph green eliminations. Where the infection is severe, Golden seal root capsules may be inserted for about three days. It kills germs by denying them adhesion to cell wall, but it dries the mucus membrane if used for prolonged periods. A rehydrating and broad spectrum antimicrobial agent which, in addition, stimulates tissue regeneration, such as Aloe Vera, may be used afterwards in overnight vagina insertions. Probiotic insertions such as Udo's Choice Probiotics or Kyolic do marvellous work in rebalancing the microbial flora to clip the wings of unfriendly and troublesome germs. I almost forgot to mention Comfrey root and Calendula(Marigold) salves or creams for tissue regeneration, especially where the vagina surface is cratered or ulcerated. Rather than rely on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) with all the cancer inducing risks, plants with much, much safer estrogenic activities are suggested. These include soya bean products, Red clover leaf or extract, one of the world's best sources of estrogenic isoflavones. American Indian women gave the world Black cohosh which, in clinical trials, has cast its folklore reputation in scientific gold. For many years, I have advised women with hormonal imbalance to try Votex, Dong quail, and Fo-ti among many remedies in this bracket, and the results are often positive. Where there is need to shore up progesterone, Zinc appeals to me as does any support the adrenal glands can get. Adrenal aids abound... Ginseng, Licorice, Borage oil, Amazon Adrenal Support, which I take almost daily and Swanson's Adrenal Essentials. The matter isn't over yet if the thyroid gland is not supported and if the intestinal microbial flora isn't rebalanced. For the thyroid, Sea help and/or lodoral are good choices. Where yeast infection causes urinary incontinences, some of the systems of which are urinary urgency and inability to hold urine before arrival at the bathroom, with droppings in the panties, many women have found relief in Bell Bladder and Yeast control Tea and capsules. Of course, there are the old reliable of Amazon AF, Myco and Bellaco Capsi, all wonderful for women's ailments, especially those of the reproductive system. So the big V.D. is not about venereal disease but of all interlinked conditions of vagina dryness, itself an early warning signal of possible oncoming or established dryness in other parts of the body such as the brain, eyes, (pain and photosensitivity) lungs (asthma) etc. Ladies, that loose end is tied.

Tel: 08034004247, 07025077303

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

e-Business Will subscribers get cheaper roaming charges? For Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) operators, the roaming business is a significant source of revenue, a goldmine of sorts. While the service has helped operators to shore up their revenue base, it has depleted the resources of hapless subscribers, sometimes pitching them against the operators. ADLINE ATILI highlights efforts by operators to address arbitrary roaming charges

OME subscribers like to roam their phone lines when they are travelling outside the country. The essence is to enable them stay in touch with people back home wherever they may be abroad. But it is not cheap to roam a phone line. The cost is so high that subscribers are campaigning for a reduction. They are also calling on the industry regulators to enforce regulations on roaming charges and also introduce the necessary elements of competition to force down costs, which are on average, four times more expensive than domestic mobile phone calls. The data rates could also be 500 to 1,000 times more expensive than domestic rates. But operators seem not to be in a hurry to fiddle with charges of international roaming, which is the capability to take a mobile device and SIM card from one country to another, to obtain voice and data services there. Such calls, text messages and other services are paid to the home operator, whether on subscription or by reduction of prepaid credit. The level of charges for this service is generally high, generating concerns and complaints by users. Some of the operators have even made it remarkably difficult for their subscribers to know the prices of roaming phone calls. Moreover, the prices, even when available, may be inaccurate, incomplete or only approximations. On top of that, some unfortunate subscribers are either wrongly billed or made to pay for services not used. Many subscribers who travel abroad frequently, have routinely complained of being ripped off by operators who allow calls above credit limits on postpaid contracts without notifying them, only for them to insist that they pay bills arising from such illegal acts. They argued that subscribers who refuse to pay are punished with suspension of their phone lines, even though some of the operators make little effort to inform them of charges they will incur when abroad. A subscriber, Mr Umana Okon-Umana, had his phone line suspended after he rejected a bogus bill of N3.07million, which was nearly 3,000 per cent above his monthly credit limit of N250,000, according to him. While narrating his experience to The Nation, he said he rejected the bill because it was in excess of his credit limit, fictitious, as well as arbitrary. Another subscriber, Mr Anietie Okon, alleged he was billed N562,749 for roaming calls he never made. Complaints such as these have made subscribers ditch their home SIM cards when abroad, preferring to purchase local SIM cards in the host country, for fear of massive roaming bills. However, telecoms operators are introducing services aimed at encouraging subscribers to use their home mobile lines abroad. Globacom subscribers will also be able to enjoy seamless, unbroken communications at uniform and affordable rates in the countries where the operator has presence. The company has pioneered innovative solutions to significantly reduce the cost and simplify the experience of travel communications. The company announced a new roaming service which offers a uniform local tariff and allows use of local Glo recharge cards in any country Glo has presence. The service, UniWorld, enables prepaid and postpaid subscribers in Nigeria, Benin Republic and Ghana, to enjoy seamless, unbroken communications at uniform and affordable

rates in those countries. At the launch of the service in Lagos, the company’s Executive Director, Mr Adewale Sangowawa, said UniWorld unifies the three Glo network countries by creating a Virtual Home Environment which allows seamless communications at transparent and affordable rates across borders. “Postpaid and prepaid subscribers can now recharge with local Glo recharge cards in Nigeria, Ghana or Benin Republic while roaming and enjoy all roaming services at very affordable rates,” he said. According to him, subscribers who roam across the three countries will be charged the same uniform local rates irrespective of where they are calling from. He said customers’ bills would be rated in Naira, Cedi or CFA depending on their Glo home country. “For instance, if a Glo Benin Republic subscriber comes to Nigeria, he will pay the same unified local rates for roaming, as if he is in the Republic of Benin, with the same currency as his home country, CFA and vice versa,” Sangowawa said. He said the service was introduced to enable Glo subscribers enjoy an unbroken connection across the three countries without the hassles of roaming while visiting the countries. He said: “We recognise the strong economic and cultural ties as well as the high movement of people across these three countries where we have our footprint and introduced the UniWorld offering to boost communication in the region, as well as make mobile telephony while roaming, stress-free and affordable.” “Besides the local tariffs while roaming, Glo has also made recharging easier for subscribers roaming in the three countries with recharge cards that could be obtained from the host country. “All a subscriber would do is get a recharge card from a vendor in that country and dial *1234*234*PIN#. ‘234’ in this case being the country code for Nigeria, in the case of subscribers from Nigeria.” The company has a worldwide roaming footprint in 277 destinations for voice and SMS roaming and 118 destinations for General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) roaming. “We are changing the way we live and work within the West African region by providing a new tariff package which will give our roaming subscribers the biggest and the best value for their money. “This product is aimed at further reducing the cost of telephone services and making communication more convenient within the region,” the Globacom boss said. The company has also extended its innovative In-Flight roaming service to 10 more international airlines to enable subscribers “live, work and play with their Nigerian mobile lines wherever they go.” In-flight roaming on the Aero Mobile Network allows for voice calls and sending of SMS on flights to over 70 destinations world-

•Roaming charges, especially for data services, have been a source of worry to subscribers who travel frequently

wide. The flights include British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa Airlines, Egypt Air, Royal Jordanian, TAP Portugal, Wataniya airlines, Oman Air, Qantas, Malaysia Airlines and V-Australia Airlines, among others. The service, the first of its kind in the subcontinent, enables Glo subscribers to use their mobile devices to make and receive phone calls, as well as send and receive SMS during flights on fleets in the partnership, from Nigeria to over 70 international destinations worldwide. Chief Operating Officer of Glo Gateway, Pankaj Pradhan, said the service is offered in association with Aero Mobile Network and On Air Network. “We are happy to have pioneered the use of mobile devices during flights in the sub-region. It is part of our continuous efforts to provide subscribers with the most up-to-date technologies that enable them to stay in touch with their businesses and loved ones wherever they are,” Pradhan stated. A quasi-roaming service also introduced by the company to enable its subscribers share precious, memorable moments and maintain seamless communications with relatives, friends and business associates abroad in a simple, fast and cost effective way is the international Multimedia Service (MMS). Multimedia messaging is a next generation messaging service that allows a variety of message elements to be sent over a network, including pictures, videos, long texts, animations, sounds, among others. According to the company, the service is available to prepaid and postpaid subscribers and enables exchange of multimedia messages in over 30 countries across 70 networks worldwide at a flat rate of N30 per message. The destinations now covered by the ser-

‘We recognise the strong economic and cultural ties as well as the high movement of people across these three countries where we have our footprint and introduced the UniWorld offering to boost communication in the region, as well as make mobile telephony while roaming, stress-free and affordable’

vice include the United Kingdom, United States, Norway, Canada, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Spain, China, Pakistan, Oman, Switzerland, Portugal, Hungary and Liechtenstein. Others are Denmark, Hungary, Sweden, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Qatar, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Ireland, Poland, Algeria, Egypt, Bahrain, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Ivory Coast, Kuwait, Moldova and Turkmenistan. Pradhan, said: “One of the enduring legacies of telecommunications is its ability to foster relationships. We are delighted that with the international MMS service, we are bringing our subscribers closer to their loved ones within and outside the country. “The service brings out one of the enduring qualities of telecommunications, which is to enhance relationships.” Likewise, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) operator, Starcomms PLC, in partnership with DexterTech, a universal Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) operator, has introduced a free roaming service for its subscribers, enabling roaming in more than 50 countries and 100 networks across the world, via a new Starcomms service, DexterSIM. Chief Executive Officer, Starcomms, Mr Logan Pather, while introducing the service in Lagos, said it roams in more than 580 networks, with free roaming on more than 100 networks across the world. The service, the Starcomms boss said, will allow cheap local and international calls directly from subscribers’ mobile phones, reduce international business mobile phone charges by up to 80 per cent. Additionally, Pather said subscribers can make calls while travelling at a cheaper rate since DexterSIM works in more than 80 per cent of the world’s most popular destinations with more countries being added all the time. Chief Executive Officer of DexterTech, Mr Adekoyejo Odunaiya, said with the service, Nigerian subscribers would for the first time, be able to take their Nigerian number abroad and roam for free. He said: “Global Web, talk and text have been bundled on a single SIM, to ensure that the savvy customer can choose to remain ubiquitous regardless of where they are on the planet. Most importantly, they are charged local fees even when abroad.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 30-5-12

Courteville eyes African markets

OURTEVILLE Business Solutions Plc is to extend its operations to more African countries in the next 18 months as it consolidates its Nigerian engagement. Speaking at an interactive session with capital market stakeholders at the Nigerian Stock Exchange’s building yesterday, the Managing Director, Bola Akindele, said the company has concluded arrangements to expand its operations beyond Nigeria and Sierra Leone. He said the firm has become a household name in Nigeria where it has operations in 18 states, adding that Courteville’s autoreg has been accepted as a form of motor vehicle documentation and administration. He said, under the AutoReg franchise, Courteville provides services for vehicle licensing, hackney permit, road worthiness certification and vehicle test, among other services. He said the firm has partnered the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), to ensure easy registration processes for all NAFDAC-regulated products, adding that the part-

•NSE closes on the negative By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

nership will facilitate the remote verification and authentication of information on all NAFDAC approved products in Nigeria, as NAFDAC would be able to provide its services for the seamless registration of products. He explained that Courteville’s solution for NAFDAC came in three modules, saying the first front-end module would allow the clients of NAFDAC to do their registration on-line. Meanwhile, as part of measures to woo more foreign investors, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has concluded plans to participate in the 2012 Olympics holding in the, United Kingdom. NSE said it has invited 20 companies to be part of the investment drive during the games. Already, Courteville has indicated interest to be part of the ceremony. The NSE boss, Oscar Onyema, commended the management of Courteville for their contributions to the development of the country.

At the close of business yesterday, the NSE key indicators, further reduced by 0.03 and 0.04 per cent respectively, leaving the market capitalisation with a drop of N2 billion to close at N7.071 trillion, while the Index reduced by 9.06 points to close at 22,170.96 points. Interestingly, major capitalised stocks closed in this zone, among which are; Dangote Cement, First Bank, Nestle, Nigerian Breweries, Guinness, UACN and Lafarge WAPCO. Despite the development, the market closed lower than it opened. The downtrend was necessitated by losses recorded in few other large capitalized stocks, inclusive of GT Bank, Zenith Bank and Flour Mills. The presence of these capitalised stocks on the losers’ log, overshadowed the gainers’ log. Twenty stocks were on the gainers’ list against 16 on the losers table. Leading the gainers table was Dangote Flour with a gain of N0.30 to close at N6.30, followed by Cement Company of Northern Nigeria with a gain of N0.25 to close at N5.30. Also on the table were Ashaka Cement, May & Baker, International Breweries, UBN, Presco, Transcorp, Courtville and Cadbury. On the losers’ side, were NASCON which recorded the highest drop of N0.24 to close at N4.65. Others were Longman, Cutix and RT Briscoe.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 30-5-12

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

MONEY LINK

Don’t remove CBN’s autonomy, expert tells Lawmakers

HE Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Maxifund Investments and Securities Limited, Mr. Okechukwu Unegbu, has advised members of the National Assembly not to remove the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) autonomy. Unegbu, who was a former Chief

By Taofik Salako

Executive Officer of the defunct Citizen International Bank, warned that amending the CBN Act would distort the system. He made these remarks at the Zenith Bank sponsored Finance Correspondent Association of Nigeria (FICAN) bi-monthly forum that was

StanChart seeks strong business link with Nigeria

TANDARD Chartered Bank will be hosting representatives from 15 Singapore companies in Nigeria this week, as part of the Singapore Business Federation’s (SBF) official tour to two West African economies, Nigeria and Benin. The tour would enable the delegation to have a valuable insight into the dynamics of doing business in Nigeria and Africa in particular. Speaking on the issue, the Chief Executive officer, Standard Chartered Nigeria, Mr Bola Adesola, said: ”We have deep, local knowledge of both Africa and Asia and will continue to provide the necessary financial tools and strategic advice to Asian companies doing business in Africa – assisting sustainable economic development in both regions. This is an excellent opportunity for us to showcase Nigeria and West Africa’s investment and growth opportunities. Standard Chartered is perfectly placed to facilitate and support Africa-Asia trade and investment corridors, and we are delighted to host Singapore business representatives in Nigeria, promoting business partnerships, which stand to benefit the economies of both regions for many generations to come.” Also, the Chief Executive officer, Standard Chartered, Singapore, Mr Ray Ferguson, said the tour would enable

By Collins Nweze

Singapore to forge a strong and healthy business relationship with the two countries. ”Singapore companies cannot afford to ignore Africa from their expansion plans as the continent is now among the fastest growing regions in the world. On the other hand, Singapore’s impressive attributes as a key regional trading centre, the world’s busiest port, and a top location for investments in Asia have also led companies in Africa to view Singapore as a gateway to the rest of Asia. “This is why in 2010, Standard Chartered formed a strategic partnership with the Singapore Business Federation for the establishment of the Africa Business Group (AFBG)”,he added. He said the group was created as a national platform to facilitate business exchanges between the Singapore business community and that of our counterparts in the Sub-Saharan Africa region. He said the decision to forge this relationship with SBF rests on two critical elements – our unrivalled market knowledge and presence in both Africa and Asia, and our commitment towards bringing together businesses from the countries the bank operates in, through special projects such as the Singapore-Africa business corridor.

of the danger it will cause to the financial system. In going after Sanusi, they are trying to destroy the central bank, which should not happen.” He added: “The banking industry and capital market should compete, complement each other and therefore co-evolve within the financial system because that is the only way they can help the economy. “It means that financial regulations have to be reviewed. In other words, regulators in the financial system have to rethink about themselves. The financial regulation coordinating committee should always be thinking about cooperation. ”The capital market was very strong prior to 2008 and they were doing things as if they existed alone in a system where there are so many other contending financial institutions or financial markets. As at that time, everybody was making money

held in Lagos yesterday. He spoke on “Banks’ Financial Performance in 2011 and Q1 2012: Implication for the Capital Market.” Unegbu said: “Why is the National Assembly trying to amend the CBN Act? The reason and only reason is because there is one strong character that had taken them on. We should be thinking of building strong institutions, so that anybody who gets there, whether the person is weak or strong, will continue to evolve in the system. “We wrote a memo to the National Assembly, telling them that it is not right to do that. We fought for the financial and instrument autonomy of the CBN and so people cannot just destroy it. They are doing that because they have seen Lamido Sanusi as being too vocal and too strong to contend with them, therefore they want to cut his power, not thinking

CDL shareholders’ fund hits N23.3b ONSOLIDATED Discount Limited (CDL) has grown its shareholders’ funds from N200million to over N23.3 billion within a period of 16 years. According to the Company’s Chiarman, Mrs Funke Osibodu, the company, which operated with the initial capital of N200million in 1996, is now the most capitalised discount house in the country. Speaking during the 16th Annual General Meeting of the company in Lagos yesterday, Osibodu said the company has consecutively increased its shareholders’ fund three times. She said the shareholders’ fund has been increased from N17.1 billion to N21.8billion in recent times. Osibodu, who is also the Managing Director of Union Bank of Nige-

By Akinola Ajibade

ria Plc, said total assets for the group and the company for the year ended 31st December 2011 stood at N75.7billion and N69.2 billion respectively. She said that the gross earnings for the group and the company were N14.2billion and N12.0billion during the period under review. The Union Bank boss said the board of the company has recommended N1billion as dividend to shareholders at the rate of 25kobo per N1.00 share held. She said profit before tax stood at N6.2billion and N6.1 billion for the group and the company respectively. “ All indices show stability when compared to the previous year. With

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

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

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

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

7.9-10% 10-11%

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

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

GAINERS AS AT 30-5-12 SYMBOL

DANGFLOUR CCNN ASHAKACEM MAYBAKER INTBREW UBN PRESCO TRANSCORP COURTVILLE CADBURY

O/PRICE

6.00 5.05 10.12 1.23 5.35 3.72 14.14 0.94 0.50 45.45

C/PRICE

6.30 5.30 10.65 1.29 5.61 3.90 14.79 0.98 0.52 16.00

113m

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

Current Before

O/PRICE 4.89 2.66 1.45 1.25 4.17 1.74 0.99 1.62 1.18 30.87

C/PRICE 4.65 2.53 1.38 1.19 3.97 1.66 0.95 1.56 1.14 30.00

CHANGE 0.24 0.13 0.07 0.06 0.20 0.08 0.04 0.06 0.04 0.87

29-2-12 27-2-12

113m

155.7

22-2-12

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Dec ’11

MPR

6.50%

12%

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

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 12.6%

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

NSE CAP Index

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

Date

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

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

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 30-5-12

SYMBOL NASCON LONGMAN CUTIX RTBRISCOE FCMB CUSTODYINS LIVESTOCK GTASSURE STERLNBANK OKOMUOIL

Exchange Rate (N) 155.8 155.8

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

CHANGE

0.30 0.25 0.50 0.06 0.26 0.18 0.65 0.04 0.02 0.55

113m

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES OBB Rate Call Rate

an initial share capital of N200million in November 1996 and with no injection of any fresh capital, your company has consistently built its shareholders’ fund while fulfilling all obligations due to its stakeholders, despite the challenging environment within which it operated in the past few years,” she said. On shares divestment, Osibodu said Access Bank has indicated its willingness to divest its shareholding from the company effectively from 31 December 2011, in line with the CBN’s directives. “ The step is taken in line with the Corporate Governance principle necessitated by its significant holding in Associated Discount House, owing to its acquisition of Intercontinental Bank Plc”, she added.

DATA BANK

Tenor

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

and forgot that in making money, “There is what we call financial friction, and this is what happens between the banking sector and the capital market. Now, while the banking system has a lot of investible instruments, the capital market has few instruments. We only know about shares and stocks. This is because of the imperfect information in our system. Both the banking system and capital market lack information and this make it impossible for banks to lend. “Regulators should not narrowly focus on banks and the capital market separately, but should instead focus on them as an integral part of the system. Regulators in the world over have learnt from the recent financial crisis that had happened, that focusing on banks and capital market regulations alone can be dangerous for the system.”

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE 9.17 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 123.93 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 105.00 THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.75 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.08 BGL NUBIAN FUND 0.89 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,710.94 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 9.42 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 7,690.48 THE DISCOVERY FUND 193.00 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

9.08 1.00 123.81 104.34 0.73 1.08 0.88 1,703.76 8.96 1.33 1.80 7,486.02 191.08 1.62

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous 04 July, 2011

Current 07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

Movement

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, LAGOS DIVISION WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first Column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second Column here have applied to the High Court of Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties of the deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) days from the date hereof. S/N NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON: 1. Rev. Godwin Ikokwu known as Rev. Godwin Ikokwu late of Assembles of God Church Folarin Ajah, Lagos who died intestate on17th day of October, 2009 at Lagos. 2. Adedapo Adegbite known as Adegbite Adedapo late of 92, Femi Ayantuga Crescent Surulere, Lagos who died intestate on 23rd day of December, 2011 at Ibadan. 3. Musa Momoh late of No. 47, Akodo Epe, Lagos who died intestate on 25th day of November, 2010 at Ogun State. 4. Taiwo Apena known as Taiwo Olubunmi Apena late of Block 128, Flat 3, Amuwo Odofin, Mile 2, Lagos who died intestate on 2nd November, 2008 at Lagos. 5. Ogunjimi Akibu Adeleke late of 44, Obale Street, Ijora Apapa, Lagos who died intestate on 25th May, 2008 at Lagos. 6. Akinwande Omotunde Olafiropo late of 5, Ikogba Crescemt, Alahun Osumba Estate, Maza-Maza, Lagos who died intestate on 26 th October, 2009 at Ireland. 7. Mr. Ambrose Ukadike Chiana known as Mr. Ambrose U. Chiana late of 6, Omowunmi Street, Ajegunle, Lagos who died intestate on 20th February, 2010 at Lagos. 8. Mrs. Modupeola Adebusola Asuzu known as Mrs. M. A. Asuzu late of 82, Okigwe Road, Nnewi Anambra State who died intestate on 21 st November, 2010 at Lagos. 9. Mr. Julius Morka known as Morku Julius late of 30, Prince Fadina Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos who died intestate on 28th May, 2007 at Lagos. 10.Mrs. Favour Isioma Bebia known as Bebia Favour late of 2, Femi Ane Close, Igando, Lagos who died intestate on 5th September, 2011 at Lagos. 11.Jonah Harris Uvoh known as Harris Uvoh late of 211 Ojo Road Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos who died intestate on 15th October, 2011 at Lagos. 12.Mr. Syracus Ifeanyi Nnah known as Mr. Nnah Syracus Ifeanyi late of 114, Ilogbo Road, Ajangbadi, Lagos who died intestate on 13th January, 2008 at Lagos. 13.Amodu Saidu late of 61, Aina Street, Itire Ikate Lagos who died intestate on 6th February, 2012 at Lagos. 14.Olowu Rebecca Olufunmilayo late of 11, Church Street, off Ikola Ipaja who died intestate on 15 th July, 2000 at Lagos. 15.Nworie Gideon Obinna late of 322 Road, Block 3 Flat 3 D Close Festac Town, Lagos who died intestate on 28th Nov, 2011 at Lagos. 16.Ekun James Babatunde known as James Babatunde Ekun late of 1, Atitebi Street, Apapa Road, Ebute-Metta, Lagos who died intestate on 14 th April, 2012at Lagos. 17.Adekanbi Jimoh Atanda known as Mr. Adekanbi Jimoh late of 1, Bamgbose Close Egbeda, Lagos who died intestate on 6th June, 2010 at Lagos. 18.Nwaguzo Richard known as Nwaguzo Chukwu Richard late of 2, Dada Alaja Street, Ajegunle who died intestate on 2nd March, 2010 at Lagos. 19..Bolaji Saheed Lawal known as Said Lawal late of Block 21, Flat 7, Alhaji Masha Road, Surulere, Lagos who died intestate on 3rd August, 2010 at Lagos. 20.Mr. Adeyinka Adebiyi late of 26, Obalodu Street, Ilupeju, Lagos who died intestate on 7th December, 2010 at Lagos. 21.Mr. Obinna John Udewena known as Udewena John O. late of UB 31, Ubakason Plaza, Alaba International Lagos, who died intestate on 4th day of June, 2011 at Anambra State. 22.Candy Inyang known as Iyang Candy late of Block C1, Flat 9, Central Bank of Nigeria who died intestate on 26th October, 2010 at Lagos. 23.Mr. Philip Agbiboa late of 2, Coker Crescent Alafia, Lagos who died intestate on 12th March, 2011 at Lagos. 24.Madam Sabale Ajoke known as Madam Aduke Sabale late of 30, Vaughan Street, Ebute-Metta, West, Lagos who died intestate on 14 th October, 1981 at Lagos. 25.Mrs. Akinbode Omobosola Abike known as Mrs. Omobosola Abike Akinbode late of 20, Taiwo Akinbode Ojo, Lagos who died intestate on 19 th July, 2005 at Lagos. 26.Amatta Ernest Nwoye known as Ernest Nwoye Amatta late of 21, Salawu Street, Olodi-Apapa, Lagos who died intestate on 27th May, 2010 at London. 27.Ambrose U. Nwaneri known as Nwaneri Ambrose Ukwengawunwa late of 58, Makanjuola Street, Badia Lagos, who died intestate on 1 st September, 2007 at Lagos. 28.Fasesan Samuel Babajide late of 37, Olufemi Road, Surulere, Lagos, who died intestate on 19th April, 2009 at Lagos. 29.Mr. Charles Nweneary late of Omiaro Close Morogbo Road, Ajangbadi Lagos, who died intestate on 12th December, 2011 at Lagos. 30.Mrs. Grace Elota known as Mrs. Elota Grace late of No. 6, Betty Pride Ajao Estate, Isolo, Lagos who died intestate on 16th November, 2011 at Lagos. 31.Oyewole Ajala Rasheed known as Oyewole Rasheed late of Block 126, Flat 1, Ilasan Housing Estate, Lekki, Lagos, who died intestate on 7th January, 2011 at Lagos. 32.Alhaja Abebi Taiwo late of 78 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos who died intestate on 2 nd January, 1997 at Lagos. 33.Samuel Oladeinde Oyegunle known as Samuel Oyegunle late of 5, Idowu Akere Street, Alagbado, Lagos who died intestate on 16th July, 2009 at Lagos. 34.Ebunoluwa Badejo known as Deborah Ebunoluwa Badejo late of 12, Okunneye Avenue, Pedro, Bariga, who died intestate on 3rd May, 2011 at Lagos. 35.Thomas Isaac Abodunrin known as Thomas Bodunrin late of 41, Lagos Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos who died intestate on 17th March, 2012 at Lagos. 36.Mr. Agbabiaka Julius Olaomoju known as Sanusi Olaomoju late of 76, Oduyebo Street, Odogunyan Ikorodu, Lagos who died intestate on 13 th October, 2009 at Lagos. 37.Supol Gabriel A. Idakwo (ASP) late of 47, Dosumu Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos who died intestate on 2nd July, 208 at Enugu State. 38.Sanusi SumonuDurodade late of 12/14 Luke Street, Idumota, Lagos who died intestate on 17th March, 2011 at Owo Ondo State. 39.Oluwole Aje known as Aje Oluwole late of Block 340, Flat 6, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos who died intestate on 9th February, 2012 at Lagos. 40.Inspector Kelvin Abang known as Abang Kelvin late of Block R, Federal High Way Patrol Barrack, Ikeja, Lagos who died intestate on 16 th November, 2010 at Lagos. 41.Mr. Gabriel Adeyemi Soga known as Olusola Gabriel late of 51, Haastrup Street, Surulere, Lagos who died intestate on 28th July, 2011 at Lagos. 42.Olatunji Busara Ogunsanya late of 130, Jimoh Ojora Street, Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos who died intestate on 26th April, 2010 at Lagos. 43.Mr. Joseph Olawunmi Banjo late of 2B Ilubirin Estate Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos who died intestate on 13th July, 1984 at Lagos. 44.Sunmonu Rabiu known as Sunmonu Rabiu Akanni late of 5, Onikate Lane Isale Eko, Lagos who died intestate on 26th July, 2011 at Lagos. 45.Mrs. Daba George known as Mrs. Daba Amachree George late of 3, Ilado Close Ikoyi, Lagos who died intestate on 13th February, 2008 at Lagos. 46.Mrs. Patience Fatimetu Nwosisi late of 15, Bonarder Avenue Ago Palace Way, Ikota, Lagos who died intestate on 1st May, 2003 at Lagos. 47.Fasua Deborah Kehinde late of 13, Imale Falafia Street, Orile Iganmu, Lagos who died intestate on 24th August, 2010 at Lagos. 48.Ogungbe Oluyinka Omolara known as Ogungbe Olayinka late of 9, Dele Ashiru Crescent Ireakari Isolo, who died intestate on 4th October, 2010 at Lagos. 49.Mr. Adolphus Chinedu Unegbu late of 1,Bello Street, Sari Iganmu, Lagos who died intestate on 5th March 2010 at Lagos. 50.Mr. Joseph Achoya late of 26 Okorogbo Street, Ajegunle, Lagos who died intestate on 1st April, 2009 at Lagos. 51.Omini Joseph Eno Ina known as Joe Ina late of Federal College of Education Akoka, Yaba, Lagos who died intestate on 1st July, 2006 at Lagos. 52.Fausat Tinuade Bakare known as Fausat Tinuade Saidi late of Bebani Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos who died intestate on 24th March, 2012 at Lagos. 53.Oresotu Olutiminunu Olukayode known as Oresotu Olutiminunu Olukayode Emmanuel late of Block 216, Flat 5, Jakande Estate, Lekki, Lagos who died intestate on 23rd day of Jan., 2002 at Lagos. 54.Mr. Chukwuma Ogbonaya late of Line A, Block 3, Ijeh Police Barrack, Obalende, Lagos who died intestate on 4th January, 2010 at Lagos.. 55.Pa Daniel Oluwole Edun known as Edun Daniel Oluwole late of 22, Alhaji Amusa Street, Daleko Mushin, Lagos, who died intestate on 18 th August, 1995 at Lagos. 56.Ilavbarhe Musah known as Orivbabahi late of 26, Fetuga Street, Bariga, Lagos who died intestate on 31st July, 2011 at Benin City. 57.Elede Dumbiri known as Ebu Dumbiri Davies late of 7, Ajenifuja Street, Agege, Lagos who died intestate on 19th February, 2011 at Lagos. 58.Udeh Eugene late of 10, Kehinde Street, Ajegunle who died intestate on 1st June, 2011 at Lagos. 59.Edet Emmanuel known as A.S.P. Emmanuel Edet late of Ukamafun Police Division Akwa Ibom State who died intestate on 2nd February, 2008 at Akwa Ibom State. 60.Egbumokei Michael Ogugua known as Mr. Michael Ogugua Egbumokei late of 1, Ibe Ogugua Close, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos who died intestate on 5th July, 2010 at Lagos. 61.Rasaq Babatunde Dawodu late of 14, Bodunrin Calcrick Close Ogba, Lagos who died intestate on 20th November, 2011 at Good luck Road Maryland U.S.A. 62.Alhaja Falilat Aduke Lawal late of 28, Amosu St., Sari Iganmu, Lagos who died intestate on 8th day of March, 2001 at Lagos. 63.Mrs Mene Binitie late of 1, Awolowo Road, Ikeja who died intestate on 2nd day of Feb., 2011 at Lagos. 64.Mr Onifade Jimoh Otherwise known as Mr John Onifade late of 25, Kofoworola St., Abule Egba, Lagos who died intestate on 1st day of August, 2009 at Lagos. 65.Jamiu A. Bello late of 12, Alagbeji St., Lagos who died intestate on 22nd day of April, 2011 at Lagos. 66.Onowakpor Sunday late of 4, Dudu Close, Abule Oshun, Ojo, Lagos who died intestate on 26th day of Jan., 2011 at Lagos. 67.Suraju Musili late of 5, Sadiku St., Sabo, Abeokuta, Ogun State who died intestate on 13th day of Oct., 2010 at Abeokuta. 68.Mr Raymond Osaka known as Osaka Raymond and Anya (Anyaegbunam) late of 312 Rd., C Close, Blk. 5, Flat 11, Festac Town, Lagos who died intestate on 23rd day of March, 2009 at Lagos. 69.Hyacinth Egbunike Anosike late of 411 Rd., Blk. 73, Flat 16, Gowon Estate, Egbeda, Lagos who died intestate on 16th day of Jan., 2011 at Shagamu. 70.Mrs Regina Olubunmi Okojie Honponu Wusu late of 5A, adebayo Munis Close, Gbagada, Lagos who died intestate on 5th day of July, 2010 at Lagos. 71.Alhaji Disu Adekanmi Oroleye late of 11, Oroleye Crescent Opebi, Lagos who died intestate on 6th day of March, 2011 at Lagos. 72.Udemagwuna A Stephen known as Mr Stephen Udemagwuna and Udemagwuna Stephen late of 8, Dipo Dina St., Abule Ogun, Ojo, Lagos who died intestate on 26th day of May, 2011 at Lagos. 73.Mr Okeshola Olufunmilayo Esther late of 117, Moricas Rd., Off Orudu Rd., Adiyan, Agbado Station, Lagos who died intestate on 26th day of Sept., 2010 at Lagos. 74.Elijah Olufemi Akinade late of C.A.C. Lion of Judah 30, Powerline Off Akinola St., Egbeda, Lagos who died intestate on 29th day of April, 2011 at Abuja. 75.Amusa Babatunde Wahabi Ajao late of 35, Moshalasi St., Sari Iganmu, Orile, Lagos who died intestate on 12th day of Jan., 2011 at Lagos. 76.Yohana K. Ishiaku late of Madogah L.G.A. Adamawa State who died intestate on 15th day of Oct., 2011 at Borno State 77.Mallam Umaru Zakariya known as Zakariya Malam Umaru late of 3, Bale St., Ajah, Lagos who died intestate on 11th day of Nov., 2008 at Lagos. 78.Okpala Daniel known as Udeze late of 5, Banire St., Surulere, Lagos who died intestate on 5th day of Feb., 1984 at Awka Etiti, Anambra State.

S/N

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Mrs. Charity Oluchi Ikokwu and Mr. Emmanuel Iheanyi Ikokwu both of Assemble of God Church Folarin Ajah, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased.. 2. Mrs. Ekpenyon Efana Adegbite and Makun Adepeju Efiom (Nee Adegbite) both of 92, Adeyanju Crescent Surulere, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 3. Fatima Musa and Mohammed Lawal Musa both of 47, Akodo Epe, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 4. Adebayo Ishola Apena and Abimbola Victor Apena both of Block 128, Flat 3, Amuwo Odofin Estate, Mile 2, Lagos. The widower and one of the children of the said deceased. 5. Ogunjimi Rasheed Olalekan and Abolanle Ajoke Ogunrinde of 12, Musuro Street, Abule Ijesha, Yaba, Lagos and 8, Odunsi Street, Lawanson Surulere, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 6. Mrs. Abiodun Olatutu Akinwande and Mr. Joseph Okpoye both of 5, Ikogba Crescent, Alahun Osumba Estate, Maza-Maza, Lagos. The widow and brother of the said deceased. 7. Mr. Innocent Chiena and Mr. Nwachukwu Promise Chiena of 32, Jos Avenue, Iba New Site Lagos and 25, Okoyi Street, Ajegunle Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 8. Mrs Salau Chinwendu Omobolande and Mr. Asuzu Ugochukwu Oluide of 21, Road X Close House 7, Festac and 711B, Close House 24, Festac Town, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 9. Mrs. Deborah Morka and Mr. Vincent Ogala both of 30, Prince Fadina Street, Olodi-Apapa, Lagos. The widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 10.Godwin Apostle Bebia and David Bebia both of 2, Femi Ane Close Igando, Lagos. The widower and one of the children of the said deceased.. 11.Mary Ome Uvoh and Ezekiel Uvoh of 211, Ojo Road, Ajegunle, Apapa and 13 Ezekiel Uvoh Crescent Ogidan Peace Estate Sangotedo Lekki, Lagos.The widow and brother of the said deceased. 12.Mrs. Njideka Chukwunenye and Ikzuchukwu Uzoma both of 3, Balogun House, Agoro Street, Ajangbadi, Lagos. Children of the said deceased. 13.Mrs. Adijat Amodu and Mr. Musa Amodu both of 61, Aina Street, Itite Ikate, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 14.Olowu Bolajoko and Olugbenga Olowu both of 11, Church Street, off Ikota Road, Ipaja Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased.. 15.Micah Nworie, Oluchi Nworie and Charity Nworie all of 322 Road D Close Block 3, Flat 3, Festac Town, Lagos. The widow and two of the children of the said deceased. 16.Mrs. Theresa Ekun and Mr. Abimbola B Ekun both of 1, Atitebi Street, Apapa Road, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 17.Mr. Adekambi Fatima and Adekambi Najeeban both of 1, Bamgbose Close Egbeda, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 18.Mrs. Margaret Nwaguzo and Otunaya Nwaguzo both of 2, Dada Alaje Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. The widow and son of the said deceased. 19.Rasak Lawal and Aliu Lawal both of Block 21, Flat 7, Alhaji Masha Road Surulere, Lagos. The brothers of the said deceased. 20.Dr. Adeyinka Adedamola and Odejimi Toun both of 26, Obalodu Street, Ilupeju Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 21.Scholastica A. Udewena and Mr. Ebuka C. Udewena both of U.B.31, Ubakasem Plaza Alaba Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Lagos. The widow and brother of the said deceased. 22.Emem Mildred Iyang and Christiana Iyang both of Block C1, Flat 9, Central Bank of Nigeria. Two of the children of the said deceased. 23.Mrs. Philomena Agbiboa and Mr. Augustine Agbiboa both of 2, Coker Crescent Alafia Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 24.Henrieta O. Adebayo and Hannah Mopelola Aiyeola of 30, Vaughan Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos and 31, Smith Street, Lagos. The daughter and grand daughter of the said deceased. 25.Akinbode Gabriel Ayodele, Mr. Akinbode Olukayode, Mrs. Borishade M. Subuola and Miss Akinbode O. Adebisi. All of 20, Taiwo Akinbode Ojo, Lagos. The widower and three of the children of the said deceased. 26.Christopher C. Amatta and Augustine A. Amatta both of 21, Salawu Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. Children of the said deceased. 27.Mrs. Eugenia Nwaneri and Mr. Uzodinma Emmanuel both of 58, Makanjuola Street, Badia. The widow and brother of the said deceased. 28.Fasesan Esther Olufunke and Oguntoyinbo Olufunmilayo Kikelomo both of 37, Olufemi Road, Surulere, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased. 29.Nwaneary Christiana (Mrs), Nweneary Udoka White, Nweneary Ekawuka Brown and Nweneary Ewere Bright. All of Omi-Aro Close Morogbo Road, Ajangbadi, Lagos. The widow and three of the children of the said deceased.. 30.Mr. Uche Elota and Mr. Ikechukwu Elota of 54, Peter Imemesi Street, Satellite Town, Lagos and 6, Betty Pride Ajao Estate, Lagos. The children of the said deceased. 31.Kazeem Rasheed, Wasiu Rasheed, Latifat Rasheed and Tajudeen Rasheed. All of Block 126, Flat 1, Ilasan Housing Estate, Lekki, Lagos. The four of the children of the said deceased. 32.Alhaja Momdat Modupe Gbadamosi Otiti and Mrs. Sherifat Runmonkun of 78, Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos and 3, Adenuga Street, Aguda, Surulere, Lagos. The daughter and grand daughter of the said deceased. 33.Mrs. Olushola Oyegunle, Mrs. Folashade Faboro, Mr. Adekunle Oyegunle and Miss Mojisola Oyegunle. All of 5, Idowu Akere Street, Alagbado, Lagos. The widow and children of the said deceased. 34.Mrs. Ayooluwa Osisanya and Sesan Ajayi of 8, Odunsi Street, Ilupeju and 12, Okuneye Avenue Pedro Bariga, Lagos. The daughter and Nephew of the said deceased.. 35.Thomas Abimbola, Thomas Olufemi O. Balogun Omowunmi and Thomas Abiodun, All of 41, Lagos Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. The widow and three of the children of the said deceased. 36.Mrs. Abiodun Sumbo Bolugbe and Mr. Toluwalase Agbabiaka both of 76, Oduyebo Street, Odogunyan Ikorodu, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 37.Mr. Martins Gabriel and Mr. Kenneth Gabriel both of 42, Dosumu Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 38.Afusat Ayoka Shekoni and Adijat Abayomi both of 12/14, Luke Street, Idumota, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 39.Olufunlola Omotayo (Nee Aje) and Olasumbo Aje both of Block 340, Flat 6, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos. The sisters of the said deceased. 40.Peter Abuo Abang and Francisca O. Abang both of Federal High Way Patrol Barracks Ikeja, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 41.Mrs. Jumoke Sanyaolu and Mr. Bayo Dolapo Soga both of 5, Ishadami Street, Mushi, Lagos and 51, Haastrup Street, Surulere, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 42.Mr. Tajudeen Ogunsanya, Mr. Semiu Ogunsanya and Mr. Sikiru Ogunsanya. All of 130, Jimoh Ojora Street, Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos. The children of the said deceased. 43.Mrs. Margaret Yewande Lucas and Mr. Kolawole Oladipupo Banjo both of 2b, Ilubirin Estate Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 44.Sunmonu Rabiu Ile, Sunmonu Raufu Ayodeji and Matimoju Femi. All of Onikate Lane, Isale-Eko, Lagos. Children of the said deceased. 45.Mr. Tein George of 3, Ilado Close, Ikoyi, Lagos. Son of the said deceased. 46.Edward Nwosisi and David Nwosisi both of 3, Savanah Street, off Adetola Aguda, Surulere, Lagos. The children of the said deceased. 47.Seun Oshinaike and Awokoya Oladele of 12, Aregbe Street, Isolo and 6, Imam Musa Lawal Street, Ogun, Ogun State. The son and brother of the said deceased. 48.Rev, Edwin Olubukunola Ogungbe and Ogbungbe Olukemi Olubusola both of 9, Dele Asiru Street, Ire-Akari Lagos. The father and sister of the said deceased. 49.Mrs. Angela Unegbu, Mr. Stephen Unegbu, Mrs. Florence Ahiante and Mr. Paul Unegbu. All of 1, Bello Street, Sari Iganmu, Lagos. The widow and three of the children of the said deceased. 50.Mr. Nduka Agbonifo Achoya, Mrs. Newworld Achoya and Miss Uche Agbonife Achoya. All of 26, Okorogbo Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. The widow and two of the children of the said deceased. 51.Omini C. U. Ina and Sophia S. Ina both of 7, Amusa Street, Abule-Ojah, Yaba, Lagos. The widow and one of the children of the said deceased.. 52.Ismail Moore Paramole and Nohimat Mojisola Bello Nawoola both of 1, Babani Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 53.Oresotu Iyabo, Oresotu O. Emmanuel and Oresotu E. Odunayo. All of Block 216, Flat 5, Jakande Estate, Lekki, Lagos. The widow and two of the children of the said deceased. 54.Mrs. Josephine Ogbonaya and Joy Emmanuel both of Lane A, Block 3, Ijeh Police Barracks, Obalende, Lagos. The widow and cousin of the said deceased. 55.Mrs. Mary Funmilayo Daniel, Mrs. Florence Olayinka Ogun and Mrs. Kehinde Ibrahim. All of 22, Alhaji Amusa Street, Daleko Mushin, Lagos. Three of the children of the said deceased. 56.Ilavbarhe Rahaletu O. and Ilavbarhe Marzua I both of 26, Fetuga Street, Bariga, Lagos. 57.Mr. Godday Ebun and Mrs. Isioma Elede Ebu both of 12, Bloard Street, Igbapa, Lagos. The Elder and Younger brother of the said deceased. 58.Angela Udeh 10, Kehinde Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. The widow of the said deceased. 59.Edet Elizabeth and Edet Eno both of 57, Ojo Road, Ajegunle, Lagos. Two of the children of the said deceased. 60.Igbumokei Peter Ifechukwude and Olanrewaju Angela-Obiajulu both of C-10 Eric Moore Tower Surulere, Lagos. Children of the said deceased. 61.Mrs. Tosin I. Dawodu, Rees Dawodu and Hussein Dawodu. All of 14, Bodunrin Clerick Close, Ogba, Lagos. The widow and two of the children of the said deceased. 62.Alh. Munirudeen A. Bello and Alhaja Memunat T. Fasanya both of 28, Amosu St., Sari Iganmu, Lagos The Children of the said deceased. 63.Mr Gabriel Abiodun Binitie of 112, Awolowo Rd., Ikeja. The Son of the said deceased. 64.Miss Onifade Bukola and Mr Onifade Segun both of 25, Awolowo St., Alagbado, Lagos the Two of the Children of the said deceased. 65.Kuburat Olayinka Bello, Hakeem Olawole Bello, Sekinat A. Bello and Morinsola Bello all of 12, Alagbeji St., Lagos Island, Lagos The Widow and Two of the Children respectively of the said deceased. 66.Onowakpo Lander and Onowakpo Halbert both of Ego-Ora St., Alasia Ijanikin, Lagos The Nephews of the said deceased. 67.Suraju Salisu and Falati Shagbaike both of 10, Joseph Avenue, Sangotedo Lekki, Ajah, Lagos The Children of the said deceased. 68.Mrs. Azuka Osaka and Mr Chike Osaka both of 312 Rd., C Close, Blk./ 5, Flat 11, Festac Town, Lagos The Widow and One of the Children respectively of the said deceased. 69.Mrs Obiageli Clementina Anosike and Miss Ifeoma Anthonia Anosike both of 411 Rd., Blk. 73, Flat 16, Gowon Estate, Lagos The Widow and One of the Children respectively of the said deceased. 70.Prof. Oladipo Olusegun Hunponu-Wusu, Mrs. Dorathy Nyong and Missm Genevieve Olubunmi Okogie of 5, Adebayo Close, Gbagada Phaswe I, Lagos The Widower, Daughter and Friend respectively of the said deceased. 71.Mrs. Feyisola Abiru and Mrs Oyebimpe Dirisu both of 11, Oroleye Crescent, Opebi, Lagos The Two of the Children of the said deceased. 72.Mr. Dickson Udemagwuna and Mr Victor Udemagwuna both of No.8, Dipo Dina St., Abule Osun Ojo, Lagos The Two of the Children of the said deceased. 73.Mrs Oluyemisi Sofola and Mrs Oluyinka Osinowo both of 1, Sofola Close, Adiyan, Lagos The Daughters of the said deceased. 74.Augusta Oluwatoyin Akinade and James Obafemi Akinade both of C.A.C. Lion of Judah, 30, Powerline Off Akinola St., Egbeda, Lagos The Widow and One of the Children respectively of the said deceased. 75.Amuda Taiwo and Amusa Kehinde both of 35, Moshalasi St., Sari Iganmu, Lagos The Two of the Children of the said deceased. 76.Bitrus Ishiaku and Sunday Ezna both of 24, Happy Homa Avenue, Kirikiri Town, Lagos The Younger Brothers of the said deceased. 77.Amina Uma Zakariya and Usman Zakariya both of 3, Bali St., Ajah, Lagos The Widow and Brother respectively of the said deceased. 78.Damian Sunday Okpala and Martins Okpala of 14, Idita St., Bode Thomas Surulere and 32, Market St., Ebute Metta, Lagos The Two of the Children of the said deceased.

G.A. SAFARI (ESQ.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS

Dankwambo: I inherited empty treasury

OMBE State Governor Ibrahim Hasan Dankwambo has alleged that he inherited an empty treasury. He said it was after he assumed office that he realised the treasury had been emptied and the state was indebted to billions of Naira. “It was after assuming office that we realised the treasury had been emptied and the government was indebted to billions of Naira,” the governor said during his first anniversary in office. He said he would not comment further on the issue until the verification of the state’s finance. The governor, who was reviewing the state’s commerce, economy and revenue generation since May 29, last year, said the condition of the treasury had compelled his administration to set up an economic advisory team to rescue the state and fast-track its socio-economic development. Dankwambo decried the leakages in the revenue collected by ministries, departments and agencies and directed that “no organ of government shall henceforth be allowed to spend from its rev-

From Vincent Ekhoragbon, Gombe

enue, which must be remitted fully to the treasury.” He said: “To that effect, the Fiscal Responsibility Bill has been passed by the House of Assembly.” The governor said N500 million has been made available to 85 co-operative societies and small and medium-scale enterprises through collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI) as part of the efforts to stimulate the economy. According to him, discussions are ongoing with some Japanese and Canadian investors on ventures that will create job opportunities. Against the usual norm, Dankwambo did not constitute a transition committee

•Dankwambo

which should have evaluated and kept him abreast of the state’s financial status before assuming office. Speculations were rife that attempts to constitute such committee were frustrated by his predecessor who insisted that it was his responsibility, but ended up not doing it. The resultant impasse, it was learnt, has driven a wedge between both parties.

10 killed in Borno From Joseph Abiodun, Maiduguri

USPECTED armed robbers yesterday invaded a bakery on the outskirts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, and killed 10 people. Some residents who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity, said the robbers came in the night. One of the eyewitnesses alleged that the bandits actually came to kill the bakers who were Christians from Michika in neighbouring Adamawa State. Spokesman for the Joint Task Force (JTF), Lt. Col. Sagir Musa, confirmed the killings.

‘UNILAG renaming noble but illegal’ •Continued from page 2

about its decision. “It is my view that things could have been better handled,” he said. To him, while it is proper to give honour where it is due, such must be done in accordance with the law. “Afterall respect for the law is an integral part of democracy itself,” Babalola said, and called for a review of the decision. “It is my hope that the authorities concerned will review their position and take appropriate step to do things in a lawful manner. “That to my mind would be the greatest honour to the late Bashorun MKO Abiola.” Describing the renaming process as faulty, Babalola said: “It is pertinent to state that I do not entirely agree with the manner in which the government has gone about its decision. “To my mind, a decision to honour the sacrifice of a man such as the Late Bashorun MKO Abiola required much more thoughtfulness and thoroughness than that which the current decision seems to display. “I take this view in the light of the obvious illegality and unconstitutionality of the decision to change the name of the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University, Lagos. “The University is a creation of statute. “Everything relating to the University including its name, administration and control is provided and regulated by statute therefore necessitating that any action taken in respect of the University must comply with the provisions of the Law. “Therefore, the most important yardstick against which the decision must be measured is the provisions of the University of Lagos Act, Cap U9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. “The Act provides for the establishment, incorporation and administration of the University among others. “Section 1 provides as follows: •’Incorporation and objectives of the University: • There is hereby established a University to be known as the University of Lagos (in this Act referred to as “the University”) to provide courses of instruction and learning in the faculties of arts, law, medicine, science, education, commerce and business administration, engineering, and any other faculties which may, from time to time, be approved under this Act. “•The University shall be a body corporate and shall have perpetual succession and a common seal.’ “The above reproduced section of the Law without equivocation states that the name of the University is ‘University of Lagos’. “This amply demonstrates that the name

‘University of Lagos’ is derived from an Act of the National Assembly. “Any other name other than ‘University of Lagos’ would run contrary to the provisions of the Act. “With the above in mind, it is not difficult to see that the name announced by President Jonathan is unknown to the University of Lagos Act. “This is so for the following reasons: Being an Act of the National Assembly, the provisions of the University of Lagos Act can only be amended by another Act of the National Assembly. “Prior to the decision of the Federal Government to change the name of the University, no amendment was made to the provisions of the University of Lagos Act. “The decision of Mr. President ostensibly acting in concert with the Federal Executive Council, amounts to an usurpation of the powers of the National Assembly. “Section 4 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended confers Legislative Powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the National Assembly which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives.” Besides, Babalola said the powers vested in the President as visitor had their limits. “They do not empower him to unilaterally direct or effect a change in the name of the University. “I state this for the following reasons: The powers of the visitor are as expressly contained in the University of Lagos Act. “It is settled that where power is vested in any individual or body, such body or individual cannot exceed the powers which had been so vested. To do so would be to act ultra vires. “A careful perusal of the provisions of Section 16 of the Act will reveal that the exercise of the powers vested in the visitor of the University must be consistent with the provisions of the Act. “This is the direct purport of Section 16(3)(b) which requires bodies and persons comprised in the university to give effect to the instructions of the visitor which are consistent with the provisions of the Act. “Clearly, a unilateral change in the name of the university from that stated in Section 1 of the Act cannot under any guise, be regarded as consistent with the provisions of the Act... “The powers vested in President Jonathan under Section 16 of the University of Lagos Act are not wide enough to support the decision of the Federal Government to change the name of the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University, Lagos.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS

HE national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Edo State of building an “army” in the name of vigilance group to rig the July 14 governorship election. It said the ACN planned to “import” hoodlums from neighbouring states to cause mayhem and destabilise the state ahead of the election. PDP’s Deputy National Chairman Sam Jaja made the allegation in Benin City yesterday. The PDP chieftain said the party’s National Chairman, Bamanga Tukur, set up a 10man committee headed by

Tension in Delta PDP From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

THERE is tension within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, following an alleged plot by a faction to alter the list of elected members of the State Executive Council. The crisis, The Nation gathered, has stalled the inauguration of the council members. The inauguration billed to have taken place on May 15, 22 and 29 has been postponed indefinitely. Sources claimed that the controversy may not be unconnected with alleged interference by a group led by a prominent Ijaw leader to impose his candidates on the council. But some of the elected officials vowed to resist and fight the matter. They insisted that the authentic list of 29 names of winners, endorsed by Dr Anne Ugbo, Chairman and Returning Officer and Ibrahim Bamalli, Electoral Officer, must be adhered to. From Osagie Otabor, Benin

him to oversee the election. He dismissed allegations

that President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP National Secretariat are sup-

porting Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s re-election bid He warned members against anti-party activities but enjoined them “to chop ” w i t h t h e A C N government and vote for PDP. But the State Chairman of ACN, Thomas Okosun, said it was the PDP that uses thugs and force during elections. Okosun said the ACN believes in fairness, which is why it preaches one- manone-vote. He said the invasion of local councils by some PDP youths yesterday was a clear manifestation of the PDP’s use of thugs to rig elections.

Why Oxford, Harvard barred National Assembly members EPUTY Senate President from training, by Ekweremadu try as much as possible to ensure

American society honours slain EFCC forensic operative

Edo PDP, ACN trade allegations

Ike Ekweremadu yesterday said some international institutions have barred members of the National Assemblies from attending further trainings abroad. He said the global institutions wrote the National Assembly barring the lawmakers from attending their courses. Ekweremadu said the institutions were apparently miffed at the attitude of some lawmakers, who were nominated for courses but would either show up towards the end of such courses or refuse to attend at all. The Senate Deputy President spoke at the National Assembly in Abuja during an interactive session with chairmen of committees and the members of the Governing Council of the National Institute of Legislative Studies (NILS). He regretted that the National Assembly has been dissipating fortunes on courses for the lawmakers, adding that the beneficiaries were not interested in at-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

tending. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently arraigned the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Herman Hembe, and his deputy, Chris Azubogu, over a similar allegation. Ekweremadu, who is also the Chairman of the Governing Council of the NILS, said the Harvard University in the United States, Oxford University in the United Kingdom as well as the United States Congress have resolved to stop inviting Nigerian lawmakers for training because of their refusal to attend such courses. He said: “Harvard wrote us and said they will no longer be taking our nominees. Sometimes, we paid fees and people didn’t show up. There was an instance I had a programme at Ox-

ford with some of our colleagues. They never showed up until the last day. They came there and wanted to collect their certificates. Of course, the sponsors refused. “In fact, at the US Senate, it took about six months to resolve the problem, because they said each time we sent people they didn’t come. So, they said they wouldn’t accept any nominees from us for exchange programmes with the US Congress. But we were able to resolve that. “I want to appeal: please, if you are nominated for a course or a programme or an exchange visit, please, if you won’t be able to attend, let us know early enough. A situation where you don’t show up is very embarrassing and doesn’t speak good of us.” A member, Ayo Omidiran, said some lawmakers were refusing to attend courses abroad because the selection process was flawed. He said: “If we really want to attend those courses, we should

that those who are interested get it. May be we can start to apply for such courses and even sign an indemnity so that we will prevent this type of disgrace of our own Assembly.” NILS Director-General Ladi Hamalai said some lawmakers’ refusal to attend overseas trainings, after such had been planned and paid for, was giving the National Assembly a bad name.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

•Lamorde

HE Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Lamorde, yesterday described the slain former Head of Forensic Unit of the agency, Mr. Abdullahi Muazu, as a consummate gentleman and professional. A statement by the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said Lamorde paid tribute to

Muazu when the American Society of Questioned Document Examiners gave the forensic chief a posthumous award through his son, Mohammed Mustapha Muazu. Represented by the Deputy Director of Operations, Kabiru Shehu, the EFCC chairman said the late Muazu, who was murdered in his home in Kaduna on September 13, 2010, was given the award for his contribution to document examination and forensic. He said: “We have come to celebrate excellence. He was one of our very best who has left an indelible mark and we remember him with nostalgia.”

NDLEA decries use of sea ports by drug barons HE National Drug

Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) yesterday raised the alarm over the smuggling of large shipments of narcotics through the nation’s seaports. This followed the agency’s seizure of large quantity of heroin in collaboration with the British government officials. The unadulterated drug,

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

weighing 113.49kilogrammes, was industrially concealed in three moulding machines imported from Islamabad, Pakistan, in a 20feet container. Its street value was put at N2.2billion. The search was conducted at the Ikoyi, Lagos Headquarters of the agency.

Suspected PDP youths chase out council workers in Edo

ORKERS of three local government areas in Edo State were yesterday chased out of their offices by some youths, believed to be members and supporters of the People Democratic Party (PDP). The youths were reportedly protesting the alleged failure of the councils to obey a court judgment which sacked their transition committees. They said their action followed the expiration of the

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

48-hour ultimatum given Governor Adams Oshiomhole to dissolve the caretaker committees. The youths invaded the Esan West, Esan Central and Esan North East Local Government Areas’ secretariats in Edo Central Senatorial District. The placard-carrying youths stormed the secretariats as early as 7am and

blocked all entrances to the council premises. Supporters of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) prevented the suspected PDP youths from entering the council secretariat in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area. At Ekpoma, in Esan West Local Government Area, the police used teargas to disperse the protesters. The windscreen of a Toyota Hilux van, belonging to the council, was smashed.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

NEWS Osun warns schools against malpractices From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

HE Osun State government yesterday warned owners of private schools against aiding examination malpractices. The Director of Special Education in the Ministry of Education, Mr. Gbenga Dairo, gave the warning at a workshop organised for the proprietors of private schools. Dairo urged them to be vigilant and ensure that no atrocities are committed in their schools during external examinations organised by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO). He said the state government has zero tolerance for examination malpractices and would sanction any school involved in it. Dairo urged them to keep their schools clean and conducive for learning.

•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (middle); his deputy, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori (fourth left); and members of the Executive Council assisting the governor to cut his 55th birthday cake at the Governor’s Office, Osogbo, the state capital...yesterday.

Ondo Rep vows to fight on as court declares seat vacant

Ogun PDP begins screening HE Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has begun the screening of councillorship and chairmanship aspirants for the local government elections. The seven-man screening committee is headed by

Chief Pegba Otemolu. Members of the committee are Mr. Segun Showunmi, Alhaji Salis Adegunwa, Chief Nike Odutola, Chief Temitope Aina, Mr. Moruf Ajesegiri and Mr. Boye Adesina. The election is slated for July 21.

CAC faction sets up peace panel

HE 22-year-old leadership tussle between two factions of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) may soon be resolved. The faction led by Pastor Joshua Ogunlade has set up a committee to resolve the

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

dispute. He accused the faction led by Pastor Elijah Olusheye of being insincere with the peace moves, but said his faction is ready to broker peace.

Headless body found in Ado-Ekiti From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

HE headless body of a mentally-challenged man in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital, has been discovered in the premises of a primary school on Oke-Ila. His private parts were also missing. It was learnt that the man, simply identified as Kehinde, has been roaming the area for over five years. Sources said he was staying in an abandoned building in the school as at the time of the incident. They said Kehinde, who wears heavy dreadlocks, was not violent. Sources said he went about town, begging for money and food without disturbing anyone. It is not clear when the incident occurred, but there are speculations that it might have happened between Saturday night and Sunday morning. A resident, who pleaded for anonymity, said: “It is sad. Kehinde was not violent. If you do not give him anything, he would walk away.” When The Nation visited the scene yesterday, the decomposing body was lying in a bush within the school’s premises and an offensive odour was in the air. The head teacher and teachers refused to comment on the incident. A resident, who did not want to be named, said: “Three years ago, a pastor came to Ado-Ekiti for a revival and took him away. Few days later, Kehinde returned and his dreadlocks were gone. He seemed sane, but relapsed after a few weeks. “That pastor came from Akure, the Ondo State capital, and took him away again. When he returned, his head was completely shaven. He exhibited sanity again for a few weeks and relapsed. “I believe the pastor, who had been coming for his dreadlocks, must be the one who came for his head and private parts.” Commissioner for Education Dr. Eniola Ajayi and the Chairman of the State Universal Education Board, Prof. Dupe Adelabu, said they were not aware of the incident and promised to inspect the school today. Mrs. Adelabu said the government is planning to put perimeter fences around primary schools.

•Abegunde: I’ll appeal •Akeredolu, activist fault ruling

FEDERAL High Court, sitting in Akure, the Ondo State capital, yesterday declared the seat of the House of Representatives member representing Akure North/Akure South Federal Constituency, Mr. Ifedayo Abegunde, vacant. Abegunde was elected on the platform of the Labour Party (LP) last April. He defected to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) on February 1. He hinged his decision on the alleged intra-party crisis that was rocking the LP. LP moved to recall him from the National Assembly and the lawmaker approached the court to prevent his recall. Abegunde’s counsel, Chief Adekola Olawoye, argued that the provisions of Section 68(1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution give his client the right to resign from an allegedly factionalised party, but the defence team, led by the Ondo State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), averred that since Abegunde had dumped LP and has not proved that there is a division in the party, he should vacate his seat. The defendants urged the court to direct the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a byeelection to fill the seat. Yesterday, Justice Grace Okeke said without a party, no

•Govt shifts test to June 4 From Damisi Ojo, Akure

candidate can contest an election, adding that there is no provision for independent candidacy in the constitution. Citing a Supreme Court decision in Amaechi vs INEC (2008), she said: “If it is only a party that canvasses for votes, it follows that it is a party that wins an election. A good or bad candidate may enhance or diminish the prospect of his party, but at the end of the day, it is the party that wins or loses an election.” Justice Okeke said Abegunde could not prove that there was a crisis in the LP. She said: “INEC was present at the congress that produced the elected and recognised state chairman of the party and it says there was no crisis or factionalisation in the LP.” According to her, the issue raised by Abegunde was not a dispute that should warrant his defection to the ACN. The judge said it is a constitutional matter that a parliamentarian who defects in this manner “shall (mandatory and not a mere directive or matter of opinion) vacate his seat.” She said: “Since it is the LP that sponsored the plaintiff (Abegunde) in the election and the plaintiff defected on account of unproven imbroglio, crisis, dispute and factionalisation in the party,

the plaintiff has lost the seat and should therefore vacate the seat, I so hold.” Abegunde’s campaign group, the “Abena Campaign Organisation (ACO)”, said the lawmaker would appeal the judgment. Faulting the judgment, ACO said it was based on a media statement credited to the Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Akin Orebiyi. In a statement by its spokesman, Mr. Kayode Ojo, ACO said: “The judgment does not come to us as a surprise because of the circumstances surrounding the hasty way the case was handled.” The group alleged that the judge was hostile to Abegunde’s lawyers throughout the hearing. It said: “The other reasons are on the two cases filed by an LP chief on the factionalisation of the party at the state and local government levels. The suits, Kunle Odidi vs Olurotimi vs Adebayo, which were filed over five months ago in the same court, even before Abegunde approached the court, are yet to be listed for hearing. “Justice Okeke did not give reasons for delivering judgment in Abegunde’s case when two preceding cases are still

pending. “Another area of suspicion is the hasty way the judgment, earlier fixed for June 19, was drawn backward to May 30, without official communication to our lawyers. “We heard the rumour on Tuesday that the judgment would be delivered today (yesterday) and that arrangements had been concluded to recall Abegunde. Surprisingly, the rumour has come true. This is another test for the judiciary.” Former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and a rights activist, Mr. Morakinyo Ogele, faulted the judgment. They advised Abegunde to appeal the ruling. Akeredolu, a governorship aspirant of the ACN in Ondo State, said: “Abegunde has the right of appeal and I advise him to take that option up to the Supreme Court. Until then, he remains a member of the House of Representatives.” Ogele said the Federal High Court has no power to unseat a lawmaker. He said: “It was the lawmaker who approached the law court to restrain the LP and state government from embarking on a procedure to recall him. “In the first instance, I do not think the court has power to remove an elected officer. The matter can only be determined by a properly constituted election petition tribunal.”

I’ll revamp Oyo’s economy, says Ajimobi

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi yesterday said his administration will do everything possible to revive the state’s economy. Ajimobi said it is criminal for political office holders to fail their people. He said such political office holders would have a lot of questions to answer from their creator. Ajimobi was inaugurating various projects executed by his administration in the last one year. The projects include Temidire Motor Park and roads at Ajibode/Shasha, Benjamin in Eleyele and Molete/Ehin .He said the inauguration of projects across

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

the state will continue for a month. The governor urged political office holders to use their offices to improve the lives of the people who voted them into power. Ajimobi assured the electorate that he would not disappoint them. The governor said those complaining that his administration is slow do not understand how terrible the Oyo State he met a year ago was. He said his situation can be compared to that of a builder, who was asked to

repair, and would need to begin from the foundation. Ajimobi said in the last one year, his government has laid a solid foundation by restoring values and the people’s confidence in the government. He said his administration has built/repaired 199 roads, provided jobs and free health missions. The governor said the construction of two hotels, bridges and the N2.1 billion Mokola flyover bridge are ongoing. He said everything would be done to revamp the state’s economy.

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31S, 2012

NEWS Ruling House nominates Police officer for stool

Court fixes June 21 for case seeking to bar Jonathan in 2015

N Abuja High Court has fixed June 21 for hearing in the suit praying to stop President Goodluck Jonathan from seeking reelection in 2015. The suit, filed by a member of the PDP in Zuba Ward of Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, Mr Cyriacus Njoku, also joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as parties. Njoku is asking the court to stop Jonathan on the ground that “he is already in his second term in office, having taken oath of office as president twice”. The plantiff also wants the court to tell him whether Sec-

tion 135 (2) of the Constitution, which specifies a period of four years in office for the President is only applicable to a person elected on the basis of an actual election. He also wants the court to determine if the section should include when a person assumed the position of President by operation of the law as in the case of Jonathan He wants the court to hold that the section applies to Jonathan, who first took oath of office as substantive President on May 6, 2010 and took a second oath as President on May 29, last year. On April 18, counsel to Njoku, Mr Osuagwu Ugochukwu, had told the court that his client was willing to explore avenues of settlement

out-of-court. Ugochukwu told the court that the PDP chapter in Zuba Ward, where the plaintiff is a registered member, proposed the out-of-court settlement. Justice Mudashiru Oniyangi had then fixed May 30 to receive the report of the proposed out-of-court settlement. But at the resumed hearing, Ugochukwu told the court that the out-of-court settlement had failed. “My Lord, the settlement out-of-court did not work out. My client wants to proceed with this matter,” he said. Counsel to Jonathan, Chief Ade Okeaya-Inneh (SAN), told the court that in view of the circumstance, “I want to apply for conditional appearance’’.

•’No election of any candidate took place’

T •Dr. Jonathan

Okeaya-Inneh urged the court to grant him leave to file a memorandum of appearance and a preliminary objection to the suit. Oniyangi granted the prayers of Okeaya-Inneh and ordered that he should be duly served as other parties in the suit with all court processes. The judge then adjourned the matter to June 21, for hearing of the counter motion/ preliminary objections by counsel to Jonathan, PDP and the INEC.

HE Odaki Ruling House of Kotonkarfe, Kogi State yesterday said it has nominated a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Abdulrazaq Gambo Sani Isa Koto for the vacant stool of Ohimege Igu of Kotonkarfe. The House said no election of any candidate purportedly took place. It said contrary to the claim of the supporters of one Seidu Salihu Akawu, the ruling House had never elected any Ohimege Igu in the last 262 years. The House explained its position in a statement in Abuja by one of the leaders of the ruling House, Mohammed Abdullahi Koto.

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

The statement followed a press conference on Monday in Lokoja by a member of the Justice Forum, Ahmed Rufai Isa Koto that Akawu had been elected for the stool. He alleged that Akawu had secured 16 votes to Gambo Sani Isa Koto’s 11 votes. The Justice Forum is backing Akawu for the stool. But in a separate statement, Mohammed Abdullahi Koto said the Ruling House had only nominated CSP AbdulRasaq Gambo Sani. He said Akawu’s purported election had no basis in any manner. The statement reads in part: “The allusion to any election by the Odaki Ruling House to produce the next Ohimege is mischievous as it is not the culture and tradition of the people of Koton-Karfe to hold elections into that position. Koton-Karfe has had 22 Ohimeges spanning over a period of 262 years and none had been appointed by election. “This development necessitated the Odaki Ruling House to hold a meeting to inter alia nominate and select a candidate for the consideration as the next Ohimege of Koton Karfe. “The meeting which was attended by members of the seven out of the eight recognised compounds/families of the Odaki Ruling House unanimously nominated one CSP Abdulrazaq Gambo Sani Isakoto (a diligent, humble , unassuming and serving senior Police Officer) as the nominee of the Odaki Ruling House) for the revered stool of the Ohimege of Koton- Karfe. “The resolutions reached at the said meeting by the Odaki Ruling House was documented, signed and forwarded to the kingmakers. The choice of the Odaki Ruling House in the person of CSP Abdulrazaq Gambo Sani Isakoto enjoys the support of more that 90 per cent of the people of KotonKarfe and Igu Kingdom”.

ACN UK seeks implementation of Uwais report HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) United Kingdom Chapter has called on President Goodluck Jonathan to implement the Justice Mohammed Uwais electoral reforms Committee report in full. Its Chairman, Dr Ibrahim Emokpaire, made the call in London while addressing Nigerian youths on democracy and good governance. He said: “Nigeria is facing the serious crisis of development and democracy simply because the country cannot guarantee the sanctity of the people’s vote. This is why there is an urgent need for a complete overhaul of the electoral system so that at least everyone who votes in an election can say with confidence that his/ her wishes has been duly expressed.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012

www.thenationonlineng.net

THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2012 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL. 7, NO. 2142

WHO SAID WHAT ‘There are procedures to follow. You do not just get up and announce the re-naming of an institution created by law. Since the law says that the institution shall be called the University of Lagos, the law establishing the institution has to be changed before such an DELE BELGORE announcement ’

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

OOD morning viewers. Welcome to our Democracy Day series. Our guest today needs no introduction. He is a very senior government official, powerful and influential – some say the most influential – man before whom some cringe and with whom others binge . We are very lucky to have him. Please, join me in welcoming His Excellency. Thank you. It’s my pleasure to be on this programme which, I must confess, is timely and commendable. Una well done. Sir, what message do you have for Nigerians on this auspicious occasion? You’ll agree with me it’s a double - the return of democracy and the first year of this administration. You’re right (he smiles). Your question reminds me of that church song: Everything na double double, everything na double double. But, talking seriously, I’ll like to tell Nigerians not to lose hope; we’ll soon get to our Cannan. All I want from them is that they should continue to pray for us. We need prayers. We need support. You see, there are those who feel Nigeria will disintegrate. Let me tell you, Nigeria will never disintegrate. I repeat, Nigeria will not disintegrate. But, sir, many Nigerians already feel they have prayed enough. Many are saying that their knees are aching. They are losing patience. I know. I feel their pains, considering my background and my stature today. Who would have thought an ordinary village boy like me will grow up to be an important personality in this country? So, my advice is that we shouldn’t lose hope unnecessarily. When there’s life, there’s hope; not so? They should continue to pray for us and support us by enduring the pains. Our programmes may be a little bit difficult to understand. Remember, I promised that it won’t be business-as-usual; I promised that and we’re going to do it because we can’t continue to run this country the way we have been running it. What they are saying is that the pains are too much. They said the government was expected to ameliorate their living conditions but it has inflicted more pains, such as the January 1 subsidy withdrawal that sent fuel prices hitting the roof. They want action. (He removes his right hand from his chin).They want action? You see, these are the people who mistake and misconstrue –deliberately o– our gentle moves to be incompetence and, I tell you, they are wrong; wrong. But the truth is, I’m not a lion. I’m not an army general. I can’t

GBENGA OMOTOSO

EDITORIAL NOTEBOOK

gbenga.omotoso@thenationonlineng.net

The censored interview operate like the kings of Syria, Babylon, Egypt, the Pharaoh or like Goliath. I’m not one of these. We have a clear vision of what this administration wants to do. And all we’re asking for is simple: pray for us. Support us. Pray The public feel that you didn’t act fast enough to rein in Boko Haram. Thank you. The Boko Haram thing, you’ll agree with me, is new. It came to us as a thief in the night. We were caught unawares, but now, God willing, and with the prayers of Nigerians, we’ll overcome. Remember, terror is a global phenomenon. It is not a native of Nigeria. Who knows, it may just be our turn to experience all these things. It’s not fair for people to say we’re slow in responding. We were studying the situation. Now, we are ready to fight them. Just pray for us. You’ll see that Boko Haram will fizzle out. I use this opportunity to commiserate with our people who may have lost their relatives in these attacks. I promise them we will get to the root of the matter. Let me tell you; we know their sponsors. I’m warning them to desist because I’ll employ every means and instruments at my disposal to secure the nation against forces of evil, which seek to divide and sabotage our country. There shall be no sacred cows in our efforts to expose, contain and defeat this network of terror. Sir, the other day, the National Security Adviser said the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) planted the Boko Haram seed by dictating who could be president and who couldn’t. It’s very simple; I think the NSA should be asked to explain himself. I don’t believe that it

is undemocratic practices in the PDP that gave rise to Boko Haram or any other group. People need to ask the NSA to explain what he really meant. You see, like philosophers will say, human beings agree; people use different words to mean the same thing and use one word to mean different things. That is the primary reason for disagreement. That’s why public officers like us have to be extremely careful because words are extremely elastic. That is why sometimes when you have something in your mind, you want to communicate it, the way you communicate it, different people will give different interpretations. Sir, are you satisfied at the performance of this administration, which some people have criticised as sluggish? With due respect (he frowns his face, raising his hands to gesticulate), this government is not slow or sluggish or whatever they call it. We’re building structures and doing things differently. It is a structure that we are perfecting. Ministers don’t need to see the President, even for four years, once the structure is there. I was told you rarely see people going to work by 8am, even though the period of service is between 8am and 4pm. How many directors come to work by 8am? I’m not sure 10 per cent of your directors come to work by 8am; not exactly.

New name for University of Lagos (UNILAG)

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s renaming of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Moshood Abiola University, Lagos (MAUL) has caused a big row. Abiola’s death in detention on July 8, 1998 paved the way for the democracy we are toying with today. To many, honouring Abiola now seems more political than altruistic. Why not declare the man a former President and deck him with the highest honour in the land? How much consultation took place before the sudden announcement? What legal advice did Dr Jonathan get? Expediency? Now, people say they are bracing up for the day the University of Ibadan (UI) will be renamed Lamidi Adedibu University and the University of Benin (UNIBEN) will be

RIPPLES PRESIDENT BANS CONTINENTAL DISHES AT STATE FUNCTIONS–News

Now, is it CASSAVA BREAD served with CASSAVA SOUP?

Anenih”s ultimate prize of loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) family. And Delta State University (DELSU) will go to James “Ogidigboigbo” Ibori. Trust Hon Patrick Obahiagbon (remember him?); he has commented on the row. He said: “The nomenclatural reappellation of UNILAG is a peremptory dicta reminiscent of the January 1 denudation peripetia.”Can you beat that?

•The late Mrs Agbo

Farewell... Ngozi

HEN Mr Agbo Agbo called me on Monday, I was expecting the cheery news that his wife had put to bed. His voice was normal – smooth, low and shorn of excitement. “Good evening editor,” he said. “Evening Agbo. What’s up?” Then the bombshell: “I have bad news for you. My wife had a baby boy.” And what’s bad in that? I wondered. “ But Ngozi is dead.” I was shattered. Ngozi was a star journalist, the kind any editor will pray to find and keep. Dutiful, cheerful and passionate about her baby, Campus Life, the eight-page Education Section pullout that is the favourite on all campuses. I will miss her. But one thing I’m damn sure of: if there are newspapers in heaven, Ngozi will surely show them that a star has arrived to take up a beat. Farewell, worthy colleague. Farewell. •For comments, send SMS to 08057634061

HARDBALL HO except those very close to President Goodluck Jonathan can tell what is on his mind these days? Since he got into Aso Villa he has watched with dismay as Nigerians, some of whom he or his aides have described as rascals, mobs or obsessed partisans, react to his policies and pronouncements. In the days when the opposition was giving the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) a drubbing in the courts, a helpless and frustrated Jonathan travelled to Ibadan where he remarked before a shocked audience that the Southwest was too important to be left in the hands of rascals. It was a distinctly unsavoury language for which he owned up. Yet he was baffled by the din the opposition raised over the insult, and his minders tried to argue that the president’s remarks were understood out of context. Barely two weeks ago, through his Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, the president said he was not interested in responding to those he described as mobs. The crime of the ‘mobs’ was that they vigorously campaigned for the reinstatement of Justice Ayo Salami, the suspended President of the Court of Appeal (PCA). The president, it is clear, finds it difficult to understand why mobs disapprove

I’m not going to chase them by carrying a big stick, going into the ministries and breaking the heads of the people. I won’t change my style. When the institutions are strong, the system will work. All we are asking for are your prayers. Pray. Just pray. Pray for us. There is this; oh my… (the light goes off. A three minutes break. Lights are flashing from telephone handsets. Then, the studio is lit again).We’re sorry for that sudden break; it was due to power failure. And that leads us to the next question: What is the government doing about power? We are doing a lot. That is why when people begin to agitate and talk about devolution of power, I laugh. Is that not what we’re doing? NEPA, sorry PHCN, will be unbundled. We will complete the various power projects and ensure smooth flow of gas to the various stations. I think we’re on 4,000 megawatts now and by the time we complete the various contracts we’ve awarded, we’ll be hitting like 7,000 megawatts. The Judiciary is enmeshed in a crisis over the suspension of Justice Ayo Salami, the President of the Court of Appeal. I think (he frowns his face) we have tried our best in this matter. The NJC should stop blowing hot and cold at the same time. It should sort out the matter by saying what it wants. Today, it’s reinstate Salami; tomorrow it’s retire him. Meanwhile, there are cases in court o, cases that I never initiated and … But, sir, the NJC has said Justice Salami should return and legal experts say that is the final word on the matter. Well... we have heard that people say we are playing politics with the Judiciary; are we not politicians? I don’t think we have much to say about this matter; it is subjudice and I think… Thank you sir for your time sir. We hope to have you back on the programme. Thank you. And one last word: Nigerians should keep praying for us. We need prayers.

A president’s headache of his behaviour on the subject of the longsuffering jurist. When the same mobs took on the late Yar’Adua cabal, which in those turbulent and hilarious days was determined to stall Jonathan’s assumption of office even in acting capacity, they were apparently an agreeable crowd. Now, finally responding to the strident calls to recognise and honour the late MKO Abiola, winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, the president decided on renaming the University of Lagos in the politician’s honour. Jonathan’s voice had not yet faded from the broadcast on Tuesday when students, activists and writers took to the street, airwaves and newspaper pages to denounce him. He must be wondering whether he did wrong to honour Abiola, and what else he needed to do to satisfy the public. That is assuming he does not begin to feel the critics were bought or sponsored by the opposition, for in his logic and in the opinion of his aides, the public seldom did

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above anything without being influenced. The president is not worried that if this were really so, then his countrymen would be a population of irredeemable morons. It is indeed disturbing that Jonathan is complicating a job that should be truly exciting for the opportunities it offers to affect a generation, and possibly many generations to come, remould an ethnically diverse country, and go down in history as a leader confronted by really gargantuan crises, but who rose to the challenges with the panache, depth and passion of, say, a Kwame Nkrumah or a Nelson Mandela. Well, Jonathan has made his choice. He must now live with it. He has chosen not to listen so well or to reflect more on the Salami case. He had denounced his countrymen for protesting against the removal of fuel subsidy, and also read rascality to boisterous opposition politics. He’ll probably see partisanship, mob action or rascality in the Unilag matter than be persuaded by the sound logic of critics who oppose the method, rather than the principle, of honouring Abiola. Jonathan may be frustrated by our criticisms, an understatement it seems; but his loyal subjects are even much more indignant, going by his one-sided approach to governance.

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