November 10,2014

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Rumble in Kwara PDP over First Lady

Judge quits Fayose’s eligibility case

NEWS

Page 53

NEWS Page 8

•Hearing off as threats to life is alleged

•Jonathan’s wife invites aspirants

•www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 9, NO. 3028 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

The Nation wins eight awards at NMMA

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•Osuji

ITH a haul of eight top awards from a record 17 nominations, The Nation was the toast of the industry at the weekend in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

It was all at the 22nd Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) at the Interna-

•Ololade

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

tional Convention Centre.

The newspaper proved that it parades some of the best commentators in the industry, with Editorial Board member Steve Osuji emerging the Columnist of the Year. Editor Gbenga Omotoso was run-

ner-up in this category.

Investigations Desk head Adekunle Yusuf won the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Prize for Culture and Tradition Reporter of the Year and the Chevron Nigeria Prize for Oil and Gas Reporter of the Year.

He won the Culture and Tradition Prize with a story titled

•Yusuf

“Help, Nigerian languages are disappearing!” published on November 13, 2013. His story, “How Nigeria lost $11b to vandalism and theft” won the Oil and Gas Prize.

Yusuf, who joined this newspaper last year, also won a third prize as the Cecil King Memorial Prize for Print Jour-

•Akioye

nalist of the Year with an entry published by his former employer, TELL. His sterling achievements caught the attention of the host governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, who rewarded him with an additional N500,000 cash.

Yusuf, earlier in the year, won the Promasidor Prize in

•Dauda

the Industry reporting category and was sponsored for a course on Digital Journalism at the Pan-Atlantic University.

Okorocha also rewarded Assistant Editor Muyiwa Lucas with N500,000 cash for winning three awards Continued on page 4

•INSIDE: ‘NIGERIA GETS $59B INVESTMENTS’ P5 RIBADU’S BROTHER KIDNAPPED P53

INEC admits lapses in voter cards distribution

•SEE ALSO PAGE 6

APC: it’s plot to rig Extension in Lagos, Ogun, Kano

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ERMANENT Voter Cards (PVCs) distribution was shoddy in Lagos, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) admitted yesterday.

Besides, it explained that the loss of the data of no fewer than one million people who registered to vote in Lagos State is partly responsible for the poor distribution of the cards.

The distribution of the PVC billed for Friday till yesterday has been problematic.

The distribution was not done in nine of the 20 local government councils in the state among them Governor Babatunde Fashola’s Surulere Constituency, Deputy Governor Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire’s Alimoso and Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji’s Epe Constituency.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) said INEC had designed the programme to fail as part of a massive rigging plot.

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun took on INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner Mr. Sam Olumekun yesterday. The REC announced the extension of the distribution till today.

Lagos and Kano RECs also extended the collection of cards till today.

APC National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu said INEC and the WHEN WILL THE Presidency had colluded CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON to rig the 2015 election for

?

APRIL 15 BE FREED?

Continued on page 4

•Boko Haram fighters parading the street of an unidentified town under their control as shown in a video made available to French News Agency (AFP) by the sect...yesterday.

Boko Haram shows grip of town in video

•SEE PAGE 4

•POLITICS P15 •SPORTS P23 •JOBS P35 •CEO P37 •MOTORING P39 •FOREIGN P54

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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NEWS

•Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele (middle), President, Bank Directors Association of Nigeria (BDAN), Dr. Sony Kuku (left) and Vice-President, BDAN, Mrs. Foluke Abdulrasaq during association’s visit to the CBN PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYOSE headquarters in Abuja... at the weekend.

Naira in free fall as oil prices tumble Last Friday was bad for the naira as it fell over a drop in oil prices. This coincides with a statement by the Bureau of Statistics that consumer price inflation eased for the second consecutive month to 8.1 percent in October. Will the naira recover this week?

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•From left: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Abdulkadir Musa, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga and Director-General, Industrial Trust Fund, Mrs. Juliet Chukkas-Onaeko at the 14th annual media workshop organised by the mnistry in Abuja .

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

•The Chairman of Arco Group Plc, Chief Joseph Akpieyi(middle), the Group Managing Director of Arco Group Plc, Mr. Alfred Okoigun(left) and Arco Group's Legal Adviser, Mr. Dennis Ayisire(right) displaying the Certificate of Registration of Arco Group Plc, the new Holding Company of Arco during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos.

•Managing Director, Med-View Airlines, Alhaji Muneer Bankole (middle) speaking during the company's staffs interactive session to mark its second anniversery in Lagos... at the weekend. With him are Head of Engineering, Lookman Animashaun (left) and Ag. Head of Flight Operation, Capt. Godfrey Ogbogu.

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE.

HE naira fell to an all-time low Friday because of a drop in oil prices, and rose slightly after the central bank intervened.

The naira fell to 170 to the U.S. dollar, until a sale of U.S. dollars and a ban on payment for imported goods using foreign exchange currency was arranged by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

"We are in the market now. We haven't abandoned the market. We will continue to defend the currency," Deputy Governor Sarah Alade told Bloomberg News.

There are concerns the falling price of crude oil, the country's biggest export, will severely affect the country's economy. It is among the hardest-hit -- of oil-producing countries -- by an international excess of production, which has provoked a 25 percent fall in the price of Brent crude oil. Oil and natural gas account for 96 percent of Nigeria's export revenue and 80 percent of its government revenue.

According to experts, the continued fall in the price of crude oil in the past three months is largely traceable to unexpected developments in chaotic Libya, which pumped 40 per cent more oil in September than it did in August, and Saudi Arabia's boosting of its output as its own way to bulwark its market share and reduce the influence of American shale oil producers. Though no one would have thought that the emergence of Islamic State (IS) would have increased oil prices, Brent crude oil prices have plummeted since July, trading at its lowest price since 2012, all due to surging supply led by U.S. fracking production, stagnating European demand, and a strengthening dollar.

While declining prices could have a negative impact on oil-producing economies around the world, some have significantly more risk than others. In a capsule, countries feel the effects of oil prices in radically different ways.While every major producer is likely to suffer as a result of the price decline, countries with lower production costs and budgetary expectations are expected to fare better than those with higher costs and expectations. At $115 per barrel, the world produced about $3.9 trillion a year at 90 million barrels per day. But at $85, the total amount is $2.8 trillion. So any country consumes more than it produces gains from the $1 trillion tranfer, mostly importers. Here are the like scenarios that may emerge if the cheaper oilregime lasts longer than envisaged: Nigeria A steep decline in oil prices is straining the budgets of Nigeria, where the economy is almost totally dependent on proceeds from oil exports, posing a potentially grave security challenge for a country that is already struggling to finance its major projects. Though a major oil producing country (Africa's largest producer), Nigeria is not a major force in

determining the prices of oil, which is responsible for a huge chunk of its revenue. In other words, Nigeria is not immune to oil price shocks. The plummeting price of oil has exacerbated the dwindling oil revenue accruing to the country, a situation exacerbated by rising oil theft the country is battling with. This has resulted in a decline in what accrues to all the tiers of governments from the Federation Account, a negative trend that started last year but which the federal government hardly wants to talk about, ostensibly in order not to create fears that the country is broke. Already, some states are at their wits' end on how to pay salaries, let alone finance development projects or provide services that can impact meaningfully on the citizenry.

Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, speaking on behalf of his colleagues in the All Progressives Congress (APC), lamented recently that the dwindling resources coming to the states from the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) on every month mean that most states may be unable to afford to pay salaries.

"This has become a very serious concern to us as governors and we felt that issues that affect the lives of our people must never be politicised.

We refuse to accept that this nation is broke. I thank God that the Federal Government is not broke, if the nation is not broke, what is due to states as revenue should be paid to the states. This idea of cutting down what should go to states does not in any way promote democracy and democratic dividends and so we, as progressive governors, do call on the Federal Government to look into the issue of dwindling resources or convince us as to why the states should not get what is due to them," Okorocha said recently.

Although spin doctors in President Goodluck Jonathan's administration have often played down the effect of crash crunch, maintaining that Nigeria will not be affected by the shocks in the global market, government is said to be quietly scrambling to confront the plunge in prices. Barely a week after insisting that its economy was immune from fluctuations occasioned by the continued slide in the international price of crude oil, the government made a volte-face, admitting it is affecting the revenue base of the nation. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, announced last week that the country would have to draw down on the Excess Crude Account (ECA) if oil price dips below $78.

"Nigeria has two to three months of rainy day savings to cushion it while contingencies are put in place should world oil prices continue to fall. Our intention is not to run in there and raid it, but even if prices continue to go down we can survive suffi-

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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NEWS cial Assistant to the President on MDGs, Dr Precious Gbeneol, said there were new and difficult challenges that arose each year which required more assistance.

According to her, the increasing economic crises and global challenges such as poverty, global health problems, increase prices and the rising number of people that migrate from their countries to others, increase the need for poverty eradication. ``This is why governments across the world are being challenged to intensify efforts at improving the conditions of living of their citizens to make life worthwhile for them,'' she said.

BENEOL said the MDGs have stimulated local and international efforts targeted at improving the lives of the poor and the most vulnerable in the society.

She observed that the full adoption and implementation of the goals were clear commitments of the Federal Government to eradicating poverty in the country. ``The MDGs Office ensures that poverty alleviation related projects are delivered directly to beneficiaries through multi-level synergies that leverage resources and the requisite political support from all levels of government. ``This effort is to ensure that poverty is reduced and the country is reformed to a better level,'' she said.

She also suggested that appropriate authorities should promote inclusive and equitable economic growth in the implementation of programmes to achieve sustainable development. ``This requires the creation of greater opportunities for citizens by reducing inequalities and fostering social development,'' she noted.

Assessing the performance of the present administration in poverty eradication programmes, Mr Mouktar Diop, the Vice President of World Bank for Africa, said that the level of poverty in Nigeria had declined from 48 per cent to 46 per cent.

He noted that the government could further reduce poverty by tackling the problem of inadequate power supply and providing jobs for the youth.

But Mr Williams Ukpong, civil servant, disagreed with Diop's view, observing that most of Nigeria workers could not afford balanced diet with their wages to sustain their family. ``They struggle to train their children in schools while the rich keep on to acquire wealth; poverty level is high and I cannot agree that it is reducing,'' he said.

He, nonetheless, said that the poverty level was high due to inability of the appropriate authorities to implement laudable policies on poverty eradication.

According to him, for effective fight against poverty, the Federal Government should urgently put a mechanism in place to harmonise policies on poverty eradication for effective implementation.

Mrs Deborah Ugwu, an activist, said poverty level could not be reduced except the Federal Government focused on manufacturing sector. ``Poverty level in this country is not reducing and it behoves the authorities to have better plans on how to manage the resources of the country,'' she said.

She said that people who were directly affected by poverty in the community must be actively engaged in participating in the fight against poverty.

Irrespective of these opinions, analysts hold the belief that fighting poverty takes time and people need to understand that they can address their challenges by being conscious of their situations and their capabilities in providing solutions.

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•Dr. Jonathan

ciently for two to three months. That is the time needed to get other measures in place. What you don't want is a hard landing. Our buffers are slimmer this time," she said.

The minister also promised, rather nebulously, that the federal government is already putting in place stricter measures to cushion the effect of the drop on the economy. She also disclosed that there is about $4 billion in the ECA at present, $2billion short of what the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had recommended, adding that the country needs to ramp up our non-oil revenues on the fiscal side. According to her, McKinsey, a global consulting firm, has been engaged to carry out an extensive review of revenue services in order to identify potential gains.

"In an oil country, you can never feel at ease exactly. But I feel we can master this situation because we have a diverse base. We will have to look very hard at recurrent expenditure, and identify overlapping agencies.

When the price is heading down, everyone sees the necessity but that doesn't stop them hating you," she said. The minister was, however, hopeful that lowers oil prices may even provide a stronger incentive for the government to breathe life into efforts to revive the stalled oil sector legislation to stimulate production, and rein in oil theft, which has cost billions of dollars a year.

WO weeks ago, India led the way by announcing an end to diesel subsidies. Fears are rife that other countries may soon follow the Indian example. In Nigeria, for example, attempts to remove the fuel subsidy, a scandalous sum supported through the Petroleum Support Fund, managed by the largely unaccountable Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), have been met with stiff resistance from many segments of the Nigerian society because of varied interests.

In this year's budget alone, a whopping N971.1 billion is earmarked for oil subsidy, while record shows that subsidy payments in the last ten years have gulped more than N10 trillion all shrouded in controversy and corruption.

So if the low price persists longer than anticipated, Eze Onyekpere, lead director, Center for Social Justice, says the economy is in for a crisis of its life. While United States and other big global economies are re-evaluating to stem the tide of the looming economic crisis, Nigerian leaders, who appear not to be bothered by the danger signals, are busy strategising

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•Obama

for political relevance ahead of the forthcoming 2015 polls. According to a recent survey, seven of the 12 OPEC members, including Iraq, Iran and Nigeria, now need far higher oil prices to cover their budgets.

In July this year, OPEC had cut down on its prediction of future demand for crude oil from the 12-member cartel next year by 300,000 barrels per day against the backdrop of surging supply from non-OPEC producers, particularly the United States.

The U.S. overtook Saudi Arabia and Russia to become the world's biggest producer of oil as extraction of energy from shale rock strengthens the nation's economy, Bank of America Corporation said in a report. For this year, Nigeria had projected a budget of N4.5tn, while setting the benchmark at $74 per barrel. The government had projected oil production of 2.383 million barrels per day in the 2014 budget, but the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) put the actual production figure for the second quarter of the year at 2.21mbpd.

And with Nigeria's economy, estimated to be over 80 percent dependent on imports, economic experts say fiscal deficits seem very likely in the months ahead. According to them, chances are that this will have a serious effect on Nigeria's short-term economic and fiscal growth.

Already, government has hinted at a cash crunch, with an appreciable decline in the revenue accruing into both the Excess Crude Account (ECA) and the Federation Account. Onyekpere says there may also be delays in salary payments across the states as a result of dwindling revenue from oil, a problem he blames on government, which has paid lip service to the diversification of the economy.

Revenue statistics show that the nonoil sector accounts for only 10 percent of total revenue, which means the impact of declining oil prices on monetary policy and foreign capital inflows may be huge, if the slide persists. As regards monetary policy, since the traditional disposition of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is to defend the nation's currency through increased supply of foreign exchange, there may wrenching impact on Nigeria's external reserve, which has also experienced a decline in recent months.

If new economic realities force the CBN to respond to the current dip in oil prices by tightening monetary policy, it may further push up interest rates, up the cost of funds to investors in the economy and limit access to investible funds. Already, re-

•Mrs. Alison-Madueke

ports indicate that the falling oil prices have unnerved global investment markets, with many investors already seeking the relative safety of government bonds, driving their prices higher and their yields lower - leading to a slump in business activity and weak consumer spending. But there is good news: it will bring down the cost of fuel importation, which has always taken a big chunk of the country's revenue. Overall, government at all levels may be constrained to embrace the new realities as another wake-up call to diversify the economy, seek alternative sources of revenue and ensure better management of national income.

HE naira's sad experience co incides with oil companies drilling in the Niger Delta facing violence, corruption and the threat of kidnapping.

Oil companies drill 2.5 million barrels a day but local militants are vandalising pipelines and stealing 400,000 barrels each day, forcing companies to consider packing up their operations. "The cost of doing business in this country is pretty high as a result of the insecurity," said security consultant Chika Nwaozuzu.

"I don't think it's a very good thing for us as a nation because we need them (oil companies)."

As chairman of Slok Holding, the leading player in Nigeria's oil and gas industry, Orji Kalu knows that the threats of piracy and kidnapping can frighten away multinationals. "The pirates and other related things are stopping foreign direct investment and they are becoming a problem," he said. "All the major oil companies are not doing anything presently.

They are just watching."

A new Petroleum Industry Bill, which aims to ensure oil companies invest in their immediate environment, has yet to be passed after being debated in parliament for four years.

There is also a risk of oil companies pulling out as they are uncertain about the security and the safety of their operations, said Auwul Rafsanjani, executive director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre.

But not everyone is convinced that the oil industry is on the brink of collapse - economists remain confident that oil companies will not divest.

"If insecurity and other forms of instability, unstable environment, were to rise, that would raise costs and therefore reduces their profit. But the profit margin for now, I believe, is such that we are not at the point where we really run the risk of capital flight, particularly from the extrac-

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tive industry, and particularly from the oil and gas sector," said Dr Peter Ozo-Esan, an economist.

But as growing numbers of foreign workers are being kidnapped, multinationals are starting to realise that in Nigeria, corruption runs almost as deep as its oil reserves. As the Nigerian government tries to attract direct foreign investment, internal insecurity and popular unrest undermine its potential as Africa's economic powerhouse.

Nigeria's consumer price inflation eased for the second consecutive month to 8.1 percent in October, from 8.3 percent the previous month, driven by lower food prices, the statistics bureau said yesterday.

Food prices, the biggest contributor to headline inflation, declined to 9.3 percent last month, down from 9.7 percent in the previous month.

"In October, the pace of increase in food prices eased for the second consecutive month • representing the lowest price increase since March, 2014. The highest price increases were recorded in the coffee, tea and cocoa; fish, dairy, and fruit groups," the bureau of statistics said in a statement.

Consumer inflation in Africa's largest economy and top oil exporter rose from 8 percent in May, creeping up from a five-year low of 7.8 percent last October as food prices rose. The central bank has said it wants to maintain inflation within a target of between 6 to 9 percent.

Analysts welcomed the drop in inflation, and said the bank will take it into account at the next monetary policy meeting in two week time, with a focus on the weakening naira currency, which has lost 6.4 percent so far this year, pressured by the decline in global oil prices.

The statistics office said Nigeria attracted $6.5 billion in foreign investments in the third quarter, up 48.1 percent from a year ago, with more than half of inflows going into the stock market.

"Equity remained the largest contributor to capital imported in the portfolio investment sector, with a value of $3.77 billion. It represented 57.6 percent of all capital imported in the quarter," the statistics office said in its report.

Nigeria's main stock index shed 11.5 percent in one week to 33,225 points on Friday as pressure on the local naira currency persisted owing to the decline in the oil price, unnerving foreign investors, the major buyers of local shares.

Despite this, poverty remains a major issue in the country. The Spe-

•Vivian Emoni of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) contributed to this report

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

The Nation wins eight awards at NMMA

Automatic Senatorial tickets: Presidency under pressure to review list

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Continued from page 1

with stories published by his former employer, Tell. Anthony Akaeze of Tell also got part of this largesse. Though he won two awards, Okorocha said he was including him on the list for being an Imo indigene.

Serial award winner, an Assistant Editor Olatunji Ololade , who a fortnight ago won the CNN African Journalist of the Year award in the health and medical reporting category, got two awards.

His “Kalakuta Republic: A decade after” published on October 26 won the Olu Aboderin Prize for Entertainment Reporter of the Year. He also won the Gani Fawehinmi Prize for Human Rights Reporter of the Year with his “Fractured lives”, published on September 14, 2013.

A Senior Correspondent on the Judiciary Desk, Joseph Jibueze, was runner-up to Ololade.

The reigning Golden Pen Reporter of the Year, Seun Akioye, also did this newspaper proud, emerging winner in two key categories. Akioye emerged the Alex Ibru Investigative Reporter of the Year, with his entry, “Money, money everywhere,

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•The Nation men (from left): Fadare, Okereocha, Lucas and Mordi at the NMMA presentation award in Owerri ... at the weekend yet flood pains remain”, which traced how donations made by governments and philanthropists after the last major flood in the country was spent. He also emerged winner of the NAFCON Prize for Environment Reporter of the Year. His entry, “Even the rich envy us the way we live”, was published on April 20, 2013. Akioye won the Golden Pen Reporter of the Year with the same story.

In August, Akioye emerged the winner of international environment award, the WASH Media Award organised by the Water Supply & Sanitation Collaborative Council (WSSCC), Geneva and the Stockholm In-

ternational Water Institute (SIWI). The award was presented during the World Water Week in Stockholm.

Akioye also clinched the third position at the Hala Nigeria Story Contest on Friday. The contest was organised by the International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ) a non- profit organisation that advances quality journalism worldwide with funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The contest : “Hala Nigeria: Many Voices, Better Lives,” is designed to increase public engagement and amplify citizen voices in health news. The project, which means “Speak

Out, Nigeria,” focused on the use of new digital tools to spur citizen engagement, promote data-driven reporting to take advantage of Nigeria’s new open data movement, organize public events around key health issues, and engage citizen journalists to expand coverage into neglected regions.

The Nation also clinched the Maritime Reporter of the Year Award. Maritime Correspondent and past NMMA winner in Agriculture Reporting category Oluwakemi Dauda, shrugged off the challenge from The Guardian’s Moses Ebosele and Nigeria Today’s Rotimi Williams

Ngala, Dikwa, Bama, Banki, Gwoza, Madagali, Liman Kara, Mubi, Gujba, Buni Yadi, Damboa, Gulani and Bumsa.

It has renamed Mubi (Adamawa State) Medinatul Islam (City of Islam) and Gwoza (Borno State) Darul Hikma (House of Wisdom) The message appeared to be aimed at reinforcing Shekau’s claim that he has created a caliphate within Nigeria.

In the video, Boko Haram voices support for other socalled caliphates, including the one proclaimed in Iraq and Syria by the Islamic State (IS) group.

Shekau, who is pictured in close-up shots with rare clarity, again dismisses the government’s claims about ceasefire talks.

The video, which was deliv-

ered through the same channels as past messages, shows armed men lined along a well-paved road, with three pick-up trucks bristling with heavy weapons also visible.

Black, crested flags associated with the Islamist group are also shown.

Later, an armoured vehicle rolls down the road lined with both fighters and individuals who appear to be residents of the town.

Boko Haram has released a series of videos showing similar military hardware, equipment it says was stolen from the Nigerian military. Such claims have been impossible to verify.

No women or girls are seen on the street or anywhere else in the footage.

Most of the message is taken

up by a sermon from Shekau, delivered indoors but apparently played on a speaker to locals assembled outside.

“We have indeed established an Islamic caliphate,” he said, restating a claim he first made in August.

The images of the sermon include unusually clear close-ups of the militant leader.

Shekau has previously expressed solidarity with other jihadi groups and leaders.

In the latest video, he seemed to associate territory under his control with a wider, global caliphate, but did not submit to the authority of any other jihadi leader.

“To everyone living in Islamic Caliphate, we convey our greetings,” he said, specifically

Continued on page 56

Boko Haram shows grip of town in video

OKO Haram yesterday affirmed its control of one of the towns in the Northeast through a 44-minute video.

The video, obtained by French News Agency (AFP), showed militants on an armoured vehicle parading down a road in an unidentified town they apparently control and the group’s leader Abubakar Shekau preaching to locals.

It was not possible to tell whether the footage was staged for propaganda purposes, especially scenes of residents cheering Islamist fighters.

The sect controls 16 local government areas across three states – Yobe (two), Adamawa (16) and Borno (nine).

Some of the towns in the hands of the sect are: Kukawa, Marte, Gajiganna, Gamboru-

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ARELY four days after automatic second term deal was reached with Senators, the Presidency and the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are under pressure from governors and leaders of the party to review the list.

Also, the PDP governors, who have rejected the pact, will meet with the President anytime this week.

But a source in the presidency said the President and the National Chairman of PDP, Adamu Mu’azu, only made political concession to the Senators but not an electoral commitment.

After a three-hour meeting on Thursday night, President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of the PDP conceded automatic tickets to 40 Senators to return to the Red Chamber.

Some of those who may return

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday raised the alarm over the three-day distribution of the Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) in 12 states. It alleged that the process was intentionally programmed to fail in order to disenfranchise voters in the states with the highest number of voters.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the fact that most of the 12 states in which the process has been largely botched have the highest number of voters and are under the control of the APC point to a clear collusion between INEC and the PDP. The card distribution was yesterday extended in Lagos, Ogun and Kano states. It will now end today.

It said most registered voters were unable to collect their PVCs because INEC engaged in a programmed incompetence to swing the elections in favour of the PDP, in what is a clear case of rigging at source. of 6.1 million registrants in the state.

“But when that data was subjected to the Automated Fingerprints Identification System (AFIS) software, 82,892 multiple registrations were eliminated.

Also, there was the technical challenge of loss of data and incomplete data affecting about one million records – mostly in 1,792 polling units that were

Continued on page 56

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ROW is brewing in Bayelsa State over automatic tickets pact with Senators by President Goodluck Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

There were indications yesterday that Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson and stakeholders in the state may reject the pact.

Most stakeholders have protested to the governor not to allow the pact to disrupt the power sharing formula in the state.

But some stakeholders led by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Kombowei Benson have welcomed the pact and wanted it across board.

The Speaker and the lawmakers have dumped the agreement reached with the Dickson-led Restoration Caucus and demanded that they be returned

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

automatically in 2015.

Investigation revealed that the governor and stakeholders had reached agreement not to concede re-election tickets to National Assembly members as well as state lawmakers in 2015.

Dickson designed a zoning formula across the state for elective offices in 2015 because some of the lawmakers had completed their second term in office.

The affected National Assembly members are Senators Emmanuel Paulker (Bayelsa Central), Heineken Lokpobiri (Bayelsa West) and Clever Ikisikpo (Bayelsa East). Those in the House of Representatives are Foingha Jephthah (Nembe/ Brass), Henry Ofongo (Southern Ijaw), Warman Ogoriba (YeneContinued on page 56

Chibok girls won’t stop Jonathan’s HE fact that the over 200 declaration Chibok girls, abducted

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from their dormitory by the Boko Haram insurgents since April 14 are still in the captivity of the sect, will not stop President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration tomorrow.

Chairman of the Publicity sub committee for the event, Senator Aniete Okon, who stated the President’s resolve to go ahead with the event, added that the programme was being funded by

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s friends and associates.

Okon said inasmuch as the President believed that the girls would be found, the country would still have to move forward.

“Are you saying that until we find the girls, we should not reContinued on page 56

APC: it’s plot to rig

Continued from page 1

been able to rectify the anomalies, irregularities that might be involved. You have not been able by now to even start the exercise of those who are 18 years and above that should be captured and given the right to vote.

“And you will have 30 days minimum, according to the Electoral Act, to display the comprehensive voters register.”

There are also complaints in Plateau State where REC Habu Zarma said more than one million of 2.3million would-be voters were yet to be captured.

He said “we also had problems with registration officials; they knew they did not actually captured some voters, but asked them to go.”

But INEC denied that it had delisted some voters in Lagos State. In a statement yesterday, INEC Chair Prof. Attahiru Jega’s spokesman Kayode Idowu, said: “In particular, it is completely false that INEC has removed the records of 1.4 million persons from the Register of Voters compiled in 2011 in Lagos State. It is true that at the end of the 2011 general registration exercise, the Commission announced a figure

are Senate President David Mark, Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu; Ahmed Makarfi, Nenadi Esther Usman, Smart Adeyemi, Atai Idoko-Ali, Barnabas Gemade, Barth Nnaji, Pius Akinyelure, Boluwaji Kunlere, Philip Aduda, Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Uche Chukwumerije.

The list includes the Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, Bassey Otu, Benedict Ayade, Zainab Kure, Simeon Ajibola, Adeseun Ayoade Ademola, Agboola Hosea Ayoola, Emmanuel Bwacha, Umar Abubakar Tutari and Suleiman Adokwe.

But following pressure, the Presidency is singing discordant tunes.

One of the top aides in the Presidency claimed that the

Row in Bayelsa over automatic ticket

INEC admits lapses in voter cards distribution the PDP “from the data to the end” .

Tinubu said: “You have not

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

‘’There is no doubt that this programmed incompetence has emanated from just one source, the ICT unit of INEC, with the intent of sabotaging the PVC distribution process in key states, hence we are calling on INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega to institute an internal inquiry into the botched exercise with a view to fishing out the fifth columnists who are behind the sabotage, meting out the necessary punishment to them. ‘’If INEC is to organise a free, credible and transparent election next February, it must quickly return to the drawing board to fashion out how to ensure that all Nigerians who are eligible to vote are able to do so without hindrance, and also purge itself of the fifth columnists within its ranks who are bent on sabotaging the elections’’.

The party said it is curious that most of the affected states (Kaduna, Kano, Edo, Plateau, Ogun, Imo, Borno, Rivers, Lagos, Nasarawa, Katsina, Niger) are either opposition strongholds or harbour the highest

identified and made public before the present exercise. That was why / how the Post-Business Rule figure for Lagos State (on the basis of which PVCs were printed) came down to about 4.6 million registrants.

“For avoidance of doubt, a pre-acknowledged data loss and incomplete data of some registrants is not a ‘conspiracy’ issue as has been alleged by some no-

huge number of voters. ‘’This is highly suspicious, against the background of available information that the PDP-led Federal Government is working to disenfranchise voters in opposition strongholds during the forthcoming polls,’’ it said..

The APC said the unmitigated disaster that the PVC distribution turned out to be in those states raises some questions: Why did INEC put those states together for the PVCs distribution exercise in the first instance? Why did INEC announce the dates for the distribution of PVCs in the states if the electoral body was not ready? And why was a process that has taken INEC four years to plan end up being so shoddy?

The party said having realised it cannot win a free and fair elections in 2015, the PDP has come up with the plan to suppress the votes in the APC states which also harbour the highest number of registered voters, especially Lagos, Rivers, Kano and

table persons. It is a back-end technical challenge that is far from sealing the fate of affected persons, and for which INEC has already put in place measures to ensure redress. The Commission has made provision for eligible persons for whom PVCs could not been printed due to data loss or defective data to come out from Wednesday, November 12th to

Continued on page 56

Monday, November 17th, 2014 for their data to be recaptured during the CVR. In special consideration for the 1,792 polling units in Lagos State where the challenge of data loss is much pronounced, the CVR will take place at the polling unit level, as against the Registration Area (RA) level in other parts of the state.

“The Register of Voters is the

•Chief Odigie-Oyegun

most important bedrock of the credibility of any election. It is, therefore, not in the best interest of the political process, or indeed the enlightened self-interest of the political elite, to needlessly impugn the integrity of the Register. INEC hereby reassures the public of its unwavering sincerity of purpose; which is the reason it has always come clean on its operations, processes as well as challenges.

Continued on page 56

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5

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

NEWS President hails Onobrakpeya on award

Senators are blackmailing Jonathan, says Suswam

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has hailed the honour conferred on one of Nigeria’s renowned artists, Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya, by the Smithsonian National Museum of African Arts in Washington DC, United States last Friday.

Onobrakpeya was named the Artist Honouree on the occasion of the museum’s 50th Anniversary celebrations.

He received the UNESCO Living Human Treasure Award in 2006.

Jonathan, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, in a congratulatory letter to the world-famous 82 year-old sculptor, painter and printmaker, said Onobrakpeya’s outstanding and remarkable portfolio of works over several decades made him worthy of the recognition by one of the most distinguished art institutions in the world.

Odumodu gets second term

By Toba Agboola

T

HE Federal Government has announced the reappointment of the Director-General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Joseph Odumodu, for another term.

The re-appointment, which becomes effective from February 1, 2015, is in line with the provisions of Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act, CAP S9 LFN, 2004.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, who made this known in Abuja, said President Goodluck Jonathan approved the renewal for another term as part of efforts to sustain initiatives to further address the country’s standardisation issues.

Odumodu is also the President of the African Region for Standardsation.

New anti-competition policycoming

By Toba Agboola

A

NEW anti-competition policy to provide a level-playing field for investors would come into force soon, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, has said He spoke in Abuja at the weekend at the 4th Annual Seminar for Industry, Trade and Investment Correspondents and Editors in Abuja.

The minister said the Bill intended to bring the policy into fruition would soon be sent to the National Assembly. “ We h a v e a c o mpe t i tion policy, we have an anti-trust law that we are looking at; that is going to the National Assembly. We will make sure that industrialists and investors across the country continue to have the confidence that everyone will play on a level-playing field”, he said.

B

From left: Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed; Director General, National Pension Commission, Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu and Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), FirstBank Plc, Mr. Bisi Onasanya, at a dinner to mark the 10th anniversary of pension reform in Nigeria, in Lagos...at the weekend.

Nigeria attracts $59b investments in three years N

IGERIA attracted over $59 billion pipeline local and foreign direct investments into the economy’s different sectors in three years, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, has said.

He said the far-reaching industrial policies initiated by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in line with the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan, helped to make the country a destination of choice for investment and diversify the nation’s economic base.

Aganga, who spoke during the 4 th Annual Seminar for Industry, Trade and Investment Correspondents and Business Editors, in Abuja, said the report of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development ranked Nigeria the number one destination for investment for two consecutive years, with the country maintaining its top three position last year.

He said: “If you look at pipeline investments that have come into the country within the last three years, we have a minimum of $59 billion coming into the different sectors of the economy over the next five to eight years. This does not include the investments that are coming into the power sector. If you look at the value chain, we have about $60 billion investments going into the power sector”.

He explained that of the $59 billion, about $12 billion is going into integrated petrochemical plant.

The minister noted that if the petrochemical plant comes on stream as planned

‘Top 100 businesses key to economic growth’

T

HE Minister of Industries, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, has described the Top 100 Businesses Initiative as a bold effort to recognise and celebrate major investors and companies that are contributing to the development of the Nigerian economy.

The minister said this when he met members of the Top 100 Businesses Assessment Committee in Abuja last Friday.

Aganga said the top companies to be honoured had proven to be good corporate citizens and had contributed tremendously not only to make Nigeria the largest economy in Africa, but one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

He said: “We intend to use this Top 100 Businesses Presidential Award Dinner to say big thank you to those companies for their firm commitment and belief in our economy and to charge them to do more by bringing more investments into Nigeria.

“It is also aimed at creating a platform for public-private sector interactions on Nigerian economic policies.”

Aganga urged the committee chairman, Mr. Jim Obazee, and other members to bring their rich experience and integrity to bear in arriving at the Top 100 Businesses.

From Toba Agboola and Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

by 2018, there would be no need for the country to import refined petroleum products, adding that a lot of investments were going into fertiliser and ethanol plants, agribusiness such as sugar cane to sugar, rice mills and cement, among others.

“We have new investments going into the automobile sector due to the implementation of the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan, which is a major component of the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan”, he said.

Aganga said the increased investment focus on Nigeria, as well as sound policies across all sectors of the economy, had helped to create more employment and increase the capacity

utilisation of key manufacturing sectors.

He said, unlike in the past, when there was no comprehensive and coordinated industrial policy, the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan had been developed as a major gamechanger.

Aganga stated: “President Jonathan in February 2013, launched the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan as a major game-changer. This was based on the principle that no nation has successfully moved from being a poor to a rich nation without a robust industrial and services sector. ”In 2011, we did not have a comprehensive automotive policy on the ground.

Today, in the automotive sector, over 22 companies have signed technical commitments to manufacturing

or assembling cars in Nigeria.”

He added that the manufacturing capacity utilisation for the automotive sector had also increased by 40 per cent, while investment in sugar cane had risen from $100 million in 2011 to N3.2 billion today.

In the cement sector, the minister said MITI, under Jonathan, had made significant progress, with installed capacity at 39.5 million metric tonnes, up from 16.5million metric tonnes per annum in 2011.

Aganga said: “In 2011, the installed capacity in the cement sector was 16.5 million metric tonnes per annum.

Today, it is 39.5 million metric tonnes. When we came in, there were about $9 billion investment in the cement sector. But today, it is more than $15 billion. In 2011, the direct and indirect jobs from the cement sector were less than 600. Today, the sector provides about 2.2 million direct and indirect jobs.

According to him, unlike in the past when there were heavy importation of cement, since 2013, the Jonathan administration had not issued any import licence.

“Our main focus for the cement sector, going forward, is to improve the standard of cement and to bring the price down. Cement manufacturers must do it because we do not do price regulation. There was an announcement a few days ago that one of the cement manufacturers is bringing down the price of its 32.5 by 40 per cent from N1,700 per bag to N1,000. The 42.5 is coming down from around N1,800 to about N1, 150 per bag”, he said.

ENUE State Governor Gabriel Suswam has accused senators of blackmailing President Goodluck Jonathan to gain automatic ticket back into the Senate next year.

He, however, said nobody would stop him from going to the Senate, except God. The governor was reacting to media reports that the President had conceded automatic tickets to PDP senators to return to the Senate and that he would give way for Senator Barnabas Gemade.

Suswam spoke in a phone chat with The Nation after monitoring the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) local government congress in Konshisha, the country home of Senator Barnabas Gemade, at the weekend.

He stated that elections into the Senate were won through the ballot and not by any arrangement, urging senators to stop blackmailing the President and seek election through the ballot box.

On the assertion that returning some PDP senator would build a stronger legislature, the governor said he had better experience as a Federal lawmaker representing Ukum-Logo-Katsina-Ala Federal Constituency.

“At the end of the day, our constituents are in better positions to determine whether we have performed well to continue in office and not by blackmail as the senators are scheming”, he said.

Also, Dr. Mathise Byuan, who contested with Gemade in 2011, but was asked to step down, said the people of Benue Northeast Senatorial District had unanimously adopted Suswam as their sole candidate and there was no going back.

Byuan advised senators and the National Working Committee of the PDP to allow the process of election to take place, rather than blackmailing the President.

He said the action of the senators, who shunned sitting for two days, was a clear indication that they had no interest of the country at heart.

“Let all those who are interested in election go through the ballot as stipulated by the PDP constitution and the 1999 Constitution”, he said.

Investigation showed that seven local governments, including Konshisha Local Government Area, have unanimously adopted Suswam as their sole candidate for the senatorial seat.

Health workers to begin indefinite strike on Wednesday

H

EALTH workers under the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) have agreed to begin an indefinite strike on Wednesday, should the Federal Government failed to address some outstanding trade issues.

Already, the union has recorded a landmark in its struggle as its members have secured consultancy status from government.

According to the National President of the National Union of Allied Health Profes-

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

sional (NUAP), Felix Faniran, who is also the vice president of JOHESU, the government last Thursday formally issued a circular to that effect.

The circular, he said, gave other health workers the right to become consultants in their various fields.

But he said the government and the unions in JOHESU had not agreed on some other issues.

The unions, Faniran added, had decided to go on an indefinite strike from Wednesday.

His words: “We held a meeting with the secretary to the Federal Government (SGF) on Thursday. The government only released one of the many circulars we told them to release. The one they release was the one in respect to consultancy status, which we say they should correct.

“Other healthcare professionals are recognised as consultants and that it is their pro-

fessional bodies that have the right to dictate who should be a consultant or not, and not the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and that such people shall be qualified to receive specialist allowance. That is what we have gotten”.

On the indefinite strike by the union, Faniran said: “All other issues, particularly the circular on our salary, which was supposed to be adjusted in January, are yet to be released. Our colleagues - the Nigeria Medical Association

(NMA) members - have had their own adjusted and circulars have been issued.

They are already enjoying a new salary package.

“We are in the same sector. But they are enjoying new salary while we have not gotten the circular yet, let alone implementing it.

“Also, this is already November and budgets have been prepared in all institutions and ours have been prepared on old rate. So, we can no longer wait”.

6

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

NEWS Ikuforiji: It’s shoddy

By Oziegbe Okoeki

T

HE Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has described the distribution of the state’s Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) as “shoddy, sad, and unfortunate”.

Ikuforiji stated this while speaking with reporters after collecting his PVC last Saturday at his registration centre opposite the Police College, Ikeja.

The Speaker, who could not obtain his PVC last Friday when the exercise was scheduled to begin due to the absence of INEC officials, said: “It is not only sad, but totally unacceptable for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to have treated the people of Lagos State with so much disdain with the shoddy and uncoordinated manner by which it handled the muchpublicised distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards over the weekend.

“It was not funny at all.

First, INEC said it would distribute the PVCs to only 11 out of the old 20 local government areas of our State for three days in the first instance, only to come out later to reduce that number to seven.

And at the end of it all, it was confusion all the way”.

According to him, “the annoying aspect of it all was that highly patriotic citizens of Lagos State had trooped out to collect their cards only to be disappointed at the end of it all. It is very disappointing that the distribution of ordinary PVCs could be this problematic for an agency of the Federal Government like INEC, in this age of modernity and information technology. Nigeria can definitely do better than this at this time.

The irony of this is that the belated distribution is coming three-long years after the prospective voters were duly registered by INEC”.

Ikuforiji, however, pleaded with Lagosians not to allow INEC’s shoddiness of the distribution discourage them from remaining patriotic citizens that would be ready at all times, to discharge their civic responsibilities as at when due.

He also advised INEC to put its acts together and urgently sort things out to ensure a hitch-free fresh attempt at redistributing the PVCs. This, he added, would ensure that not a single resident of Lagos State is disenfranchised during the 2015 general elections.

T

INEC extends distribution of PVCs in Ogun, Kano T THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to registered voters in Ogun and Kano states by one day, following the hitches and irregularities that affected the exercise.

A statement by the state Resident Electoral Commission (REC), Sam Olumekun, explained that the extension granted Ogun State was sequel to a plethora of hitches witnessed by both the commission as well as the citizens during the first two days of the exercise, which started last Friday.

The INEC also appealed to residents to be calm, saying that every registered voter would get his or her card.

The statement reads in parts:”Sequel to the hitches observed during the first day of the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta and Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

Ogun State, INEC would like to inform the citizens that the exercise has been extended by one day, i.e. it will now end on Monday, 10th November, 2014 as against Sunday 9th November, 2014.

“The Resident Electoral Commissioner appeals to the eligible voters to be calm, assuring them that any voter, whose name appears in the voter register, but could not find his or her card, should not panic; as their cards shall be provided in due course.

“They should not re-register during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise scheduled for 12th to 17th November, 2014, as this would amount to double

registration.

“INEC wishes to assure the general public that all eligible citizens would be registered and issued valid voter cards before the 2015 election.”

Also, the Kano State INEC extended the collection of the PVC till today, to enable the commission meet the projected target of 4.7 voters.

Speaking to reporters yesterday at the INEC office, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Danyaya, said the extension became imperative, following the late arrival of materials, which culminated in the late beginning of the exercise last Friday.

Danyaya explained that the distribution of PVC in Kano to eligible voters was

earlier scheduled to end yesterday, but the magnanimity of the commission prompted the extension of the exercise by one day to enable eligible voters collect their PVCs. According to him, the display of voter register would also be on at the various polling units for cross-checking, while those whose names appear in the voter register are advised not to participate in the CVR exercise, which is expected to begin on Wednesday.

“Those, whose names appear in the Voter register and are yet to collect their PVC by today, are advised to proceed to INEC area Local Government offices to collect their cards after the completion of the continuous voter register exercise”, the statement added.

However, he expressed optimism that over 70-80 per cent of prospective voters in Kano will be captured in the exercise.

•Voters checking their Permanent Voters Cards (PVC) at Ward J, old Ota Road, Orile Agege, Lagos

S

PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI

Plateau voters express frustration

OME prospective voters in Plateau State have expressed concern about their inability to obtain the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that many voters, who turned up to obtain the cards in some of the PVCs distribution centres, went home disappointed.

It was also reported that while many people could not find their names on the list at some centres, some polling units were not opened for the exercise.

Among polling units not opened were Mountain Kiew, close to the Federal Secretariat,

REC: one million people not captured Hwolshe and Kwata area in Jos South Local Government Area.

At one of the polling units behind New Era Hotel in Hwolshe, out of the voters that were registered, only four names appeared on the list.

The situation was also the same at polling units in TudunWada, Kabong, Dadin-Kowa and Kabong.

A voter, Mrs. Larai Maikifi, who spoke to NAN in Hotel Junction in Hwolshe, described the situation as frustrating.

“I have been coming here since Friday when INEC started the dis-

tribution of the PVCs, but I have never seen one of its officials to tell me what is happening.

“If it has disapproved this polling unit, people should be told, but no one is telling us anything and we are confused.

“Many people have left, but I am hanging because this is the last day and I want to see if any INEC official can come and tell us where to go”, she said.

Another voter, Mr. Ibrahim Azi, said he went to his polling unit at Obasanjo Model Primary School, but did not find his name on the list.

“I have complained and I have been asked to fill a form; I have done that and I am waiting for them to tell me what to do next”, he said.

However, Mr. Timoth Golu, the Chief Whip, Plateau House of Assembly, has asked INEC to tidy up their arrangement so as not to disenfranchise a large segment of the population.

“Many people are still searching for their names; people are enthusiastic and want to vote to determine who should lead them, so INEC should not stand on their ways”, he said.

NURTW to drivers: collect your cards

T

HE Lagos State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede, has urged commercial drivers to pick up their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) to enable them eligible to vote in the general elections He spoke during the union’s monthly State Executive Council meeting at its secretariat in Abule-Egba, a Lagos suburb.

He explained that the voter card would give drivers the opportunity to exercise their civic rights.

Jega should resign now, says Rep

T

HE Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof.

Attahiru Jega, has been advised to resign his position to give room for a more competent individual, following an alleged inability to effectively manage the voter registration and the distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

A member of the House of Representatives, Lanre Odubote, gave the advice in Epe, at the inauguration of a block of three classrooms and a staff room he built and donated to LGA Central School, Agbowa, Epe. The lawmaker said the postponement of the distribution of the PVCs in eight local governments in Lagos State, including Epe, is an indication that Jega could not be trusted with the bigger responsibility of managing next year’s elections.

Odubote, who represents Epe Federal Constituency, noted that the postponement of the distribution of the cards in parts of the state is only part of the lack of capacity that Jega has shown in the discharge of his responsibility, adding that such had been the experience in all the places where the PVCs have been distributed.

Union petitions SGF, National Assembly over NTDC’s DG

HE Amalgamated Union of Public Service Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) has petitioned the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the National Assembly, asking for a probe into the activities of the DirectorGeneral (DG) of the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Sally Mbanefo, following alleged administrative lapses.

The petition, which was also sent to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), al-

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

leged that the NTDC is derailing from its vision and ought to be checked.

It accused the DG of administering the corporation through text messages.

But a top official of NTDC said the petition was baseless and a desperate bid to undermine the “growing achievements and international acceptance of Mbanefo.”

Titled “Operation Save NTDC,” the union’s petition by its Secretary for the Federal Capital Territory Council (FCT), Comrade Remi Adediji, alleged lapses in the

•‘Allegations false’ administration style of the DG. The petition reads in part: “The DG’s official medium of communication is through text messages, which make accountability or referral difficult, especially on decisions reached.

“This makes files to pile up at her office without being treated. This is a sign of pretence and lack of working experience.

“According to report from the corporation, the DG has replaced management meet-

ings with Executive Committee meeting, whereby she handpicks people without consideration to the statutory management team.

“The zonal offices are being starved of funds, relegated to the background and used as punishment site for ‘uncooperative staff’.

“There are also issues of staff being forced to work against the establishment rule. The provisions of the Public Service Rule on annual leave, maternity leave, sick leave, which are staff rights,

are breached with impunity because she considers them a privilege.”

The union also alleged that the DG said she might not be coming to the office regularly because of the campaign of President Goodluck Jonathan for next year’s presidential election. ”From the look of things, it seems the DG has no time for the administration of the corporation. She informed her management sometimes that she is now the coordinator of Strategy and Campaign for the President, hence she will not be regular in the office”, the union

added.

The petition stated that despite the fact that Mbanefo had been in office for close to two years, she “is yet to acquaint the staff of the corporation with her vision and mission for the organisation”.

“Most of the international fairs meant to showcase the image and marketing of the country’s tourism products are either cancelled or attended by her and her consultants, who she brought, who we believe are not better than the staff of the NTDC by all standards”, it stated.

7

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

NEWS

APC denies Fayose’s claims on Conditional Cash Transfer

T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State has debunked Governor Ayodele Fayose’s claim that the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme was part of his “stomach infrastructure” programme.

The APC accused Fayose of ignoring due process in the award of contracts, saying he had turned himself into a “despotic sole administrator”.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, the party described Fayose’s claim of ownership of the CCT as dishonest.

It said: “The truth of the matter is that the CCT, which is a joint programme of the government and the MDGs, was initiated by the Kayode Fayemi administration a year ago.

“There were 2,250 beneficiaries in Ise/Orun, Ikere, Irepodun/Ifelodun, Ilejemeje and Ido/Osi local governments cutting across 450 households.

Tambuwal, others for book launch

T

HE Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and Alaafin of Oyo Oba Lamidi Adeyemi are among guests expected at the public presentation of a book in honour of an Emeritus Professor of Political Science, John A. A. Ayoade, on Wednesday.

Also expected at the conference room of the National Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Ibadan include Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, his Ogun and Osun State counterparts, Ibikunle Amosun and Rauf Aregbesola.

Also expected are the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola.

The book: “The Legislature and Governance in Nigeria”, edited by Dr. Emmanuel Olugbade Ojo, a senior lecturer in the Department of Political Science, University of Ilorin and Dr. J. Shola Omotola of the Redeemers’ University Ogun State, is in honour of the professor, who turns 72 on Wednesday.

•Says Fayemi started programme “Olatunbosun said the money spent on the programme was N375 million of which Ekiti contributed N187.5 million; the Federal Government paid the balance.

“The programme, which was to achieve the Universal Primary Education, Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, was coordinated by the Office of the Special Adviser on MDGs. “The first batch of 2,250 received N5,000 monthly for one year and a phone with N100,000 after one year to start an agriculture related business.”

The APC said the governor awarded the MDGs contracts worth N1.2 billion and ignored the due process observed by the Fayemi administration in the selection of contractors.

Fayose awarded a N200million contract for the painting of the governor’s office to his brother.

The party said: “We expect the governor to give credit to his predecessor for starting the CCT programme, which he inherited and wanted to continue .

“It is the height of deceit for Fayose to present the CCT programme to unsuspecting Ekiti people as one of his stomach infrastructure programme whereas as many as 2,250 women have benefited in the last one year.

“Fayose wrongly claimed ownership of another MDGs programme, CGS LGA Track, which was put in place by the Fayemi administration, which paid the state’s counterpart funding.

“The N1.2 billion involved was contributed by the federal, state and local governments for projects in three local governments yet, Fayose claimed he met no money in all government accounts during his inauguration.

‘No plans to sack street cleaners’

•Dr. Fayemi

“He has reduced Ekiti people to playthings which can be manipulated at will. He has been telling everyone that he has employed many Ekiti indigenes when in actual fact, they are being employed by consultants outside the government.

“We advise Governor Fayose to run an open administration founded on truth and transparency.”

APC hails Jega’s comment on Osun election From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

•Jega

T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has described a statement by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Com-

mission (INEC), Prof.

Attahiru Jega, on the August 9 governorship election in Osun State as a confirmation of the credibility of the election.

Jega, in an interview said: “Look at what we did in Osun State….In Osun, we had the best election conducted so far, the best election we have conducted so far as a commission since 2011.”

The party, in a statement by its spokesperson, Kunle Oyatomi, said unfolding events in the state corroborated Jega’s assertion.

The APC said no contrary

findings had been made during the inspection of ballot papers and electoral materials in eight of the 17 local governments, where the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Iyiola Omisore, was contesting the validity and credibility of the election.

It said: “The inspection done by both parties has confirmed what the INEC chairman said because they were flawless.

“Jega said apart from being the best election INEC has conducted since 2011, the election also recorded the highest number of votes in all the governorship elections conducted within the period 2011-2014.

Police to re-arraign monarch, others

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HE Olu of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo and 10 other suspects earlier arraigned before an Igbokoda Magistrate’s Court for the death of Prince Titilayo Omolebi will soon appear before an Okitipupa High Court.

The Omolebi’s family counsel, Atima Koboju, wondered why the Ministry of Justice was yet to get legal advice a year after Oba Odidiomo was granted bail by the magis-

T

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

trate’s court.

Atima alleged that his client uncovered plans by the suspects to incriminate the deceased’s elder brother, Bamitale Iwatan.

The counsel said Bamitale returned to Nigeria from Malaysia to ensure that the suspects were prosecuted.

He assured that the suspects would be re-arraigned when the state gets legal advice on the matter.

“We are anxiously awaiting a legal advice from the Ministry of Justice on the matter.

“We have observed that a commissioner from the area, who is a close friend of the monarch, is using his position to frustrate the case.

“This is the reason why the case has not come up.

But I have met with the police and we have finalised arrangements to re-arraign the monarch as soon as the legal advice is available.”

Don seeks review of judgment

HE Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan (UI), Prof Adeniyi Olatunbosun, has called for the legal review of judgment on crimes.

He made the call at an inaugural lecture, entitled: “Tough on crime but soft on justice” at the Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

He said: “The subject of crime is an important issue, widely discussed, but its mode of treatment is often

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

ignored.

“The challenge is for those interested in the study of crime to continue to research and come up with functional ideas.

“Much creative efforts and programmes have to be put in place if we are to protect our society from crime.

“Court rulings should be treated as subservient handmaids to justice not as omnipotent masters at war with justice.

“Tougher laws have failed to stem the tide of categories of crimes in our society. The courts have not been dispensing justice to the satisfaction of the public.

“There are instances of delayed justice, non-completion of high profile cases of corrupt practices and prolonged trials.”

In order to address judiciary ills, the don stated that the independence of the judiciary should remain unassailable.

“The Osun election was in excess of 67 per cent voter turnout, notwithstanding the massive security used to scare voters.”

The APC said what happened in Osun on August 9 was a true reflection of the people’s wish.

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HE Ekiti State government has said it will not sack street cleaners or any other category of workers.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Bisi Kolawole, gave the assurance in Ado Ekiti at a meeting with stakeholders.

Kolawole called on the cleaners to be diligent, reiter-

ating the commitment of the Ayo Fayose administration to ensuring a clean and healthy environment.

He said the government would buy three tractors and 12 tipping trailers for the evacuation of refuse.

The aide cautioned the people to desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse.

Rehabilitate our roads, say Iwo youths

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HE youth of Iwo in Osun State have urged politicians seeking votes from the community to rehabilitate roads in the town.

Their spokesman, Adewale Atanda, said those in power should use their influence to support communities lacking social amenities and infrastructure.

Akanbi, who spoke at the fundraising for rehabilitation of Iwo roads, said it was time the community looked inward and developed a selfhelp attitude.

He said: “Senator Iyiola

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Omisore should have assisted the people of Osun with the connection he had with the Presidency, where he could lobby for the workers and for improved and prompt payment of federal allocation to the state.

“We want politicians to take a cue from Omisore’s mistakes and know that it is an insult to our humanity for any politician to think what the people need is “stomach infrastructure” instead of physical and human infrastructure.”

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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NEWS Ondo PDP demands screening committee

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•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola acknowledging cheers from the physically-challenged when they visited him in Osogbo ... at the weekend.With him are Deputy Governor Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori; his Senior Special Assistant on Arewa Matters, Imam Bashir Mohammed and others.

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has urged its National Secretariat to send a fresh committee to screen aspirants into the House of Assembly.

A statement by the Director of Publicity, Ayo Fadaka, said: “The national secretariat sent a screening committee to screen aspirants for the House of Assembly election, but sooner did they arrive in the state than Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his agents took them out of circulation and compromised them.

“As expected, their report disqualified all original members of the party.

The appeal Committee came after the screening committee had been taken out of circulation with a view to ratifying the injustice it perpetrated.

“This attitude is cheap and designed to remove from contention all those who have contributed immensely to the growth of the party to favour his cronies who defected with him into the PDP. “We hereby call on the national secretariat to cancel the reports of the two committees and send new people to Ondo State to screen our aspirants in the interest of the party.”

‘No consensus candidate in Oyo PDP’

Judge quits Fayose’s eligibility case P

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HE “eligibility” case against Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, which was to be heard today at the State High Court, in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, may not hold as Justice Isaac Ogunyemi has reportedly quit the case.

Mr. Justice Ogunyemi, in an earlier ruling, on the ‘eligibility’ case instituted by an Ekiti group, E-11, assumed jurisdiction to hear and try

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

the case.

E-11 had contended in its application that Governor Fayose, as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), lacked the eligibility (integrity) to contest any elective position, having been indicted by an administrative panel in 2006 for “gross misconduct” and “impeached”.

E-11 alleged that the facts regarding this impeachment were not disclosed by Fayose in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Form CF001.

Mr. Justice Ogunyemi, according to a source, had cited “threats to his life” as an excuse for quitting the case.

The source said: “Mr. Justice Ogunyemi has returned the case file to the registrar.

“I can confirm that the law-

yers have been informed not to come to court today.”

The PDP had urged the Chief Judge, Justice Ayodeji Daramola, to re-assign the case to another judge, alleging that Justice Ogunyemi had been compromised and that its interest would not be protected with his continued handling of the case.

When reassigned, the new judge will be the fifth to handle the matter.

Atiku lambasts Fayose’s ‘stomach infrastructure’

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ORMER Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose for “diluting” the sublime essence of governance.

He spoke at the inauguration of a 32-bed hospital built by the member representing Ekiti Federal Constituency 1 at the House of Representatives, Bimbo Daramola.

At the ceremony were the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, former governors Kayode Fayemi, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Segun Oni. Atiku praised Daramola for the project, urging the people to value education, health and infrastructural development.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

The former Vice-President said: “I believe Ekiti people don’t need stomach infrastructure. Would you forego education for stomach infrastructure? Would you forego healthcare for stomach infrastructure? Would you forgo infrastructural development for stomach infrastructure?

“Today, Japan is the third largest economy in the world.

They don’t have the farmland that you have in Ekiti but they have education and technology.

“They have education and then technology. Anybody who is telling you all you need is a bag of rice, no, no,

Ekiti people, no.”

Atiku berated the Peoples Democratic Party-led Federal Government for its failure to offer desirable leadership quality in the country, with unfriendly policies and programmes.

“Certainly, Nigeria is not healthy. When you look at the economy and insecurity in the country, you will know that certainly, Nigeria is not healthy.”

Regarding the June 21 election, Atiku hinted at the possibility of an earlier return of Dr. Kayode Fayemi as governor, noting “Fayemi is just on mid-term recess. He is coming back soon”.

The presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Con-

This is not our Nigeria, says Saraki

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ORMER Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki has scored the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration low.

Saraki, who spoke to reporters at the weekend in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, said: “This is not the Nigeria we all dream about.”

He said any president who is incapable of ensuring the security of lives and property of the citizenry is imcompetent.

“As a country if a scorecard says a government has not been able to provide security then honestly that government should be voted out.

“I always say to people it is not about Jonathan, whoever is the president now if he is a Muslim, Christian; from the North or South and he is running a government like this then the person has to go.

“If tomorrow, the president becomes “born-again”

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

then it is a different ball game. But we must talk about issues on ground.

“No matter how we want to paint it or gloss over, if all of us as Nigerians want to be truthful, we know that things are not going on well. We know that this is not the Nigeria we all dream about.

“For some time now, some parts of Nigeria are under siege. You see Nigerians becoming refugees in neighbouring countries. Is that the Nigeria we dream about?

“Or is it APC that is causing that? Before they tried to use religion and ethnicity but both Christian and Muslim towns and villages are being attacked. What are we doing? What is being done?

“The level of insecurity and impunity is a thing that can

be done and corrected. They are not things that we are fabricating. When you make comments they attack you, but that does not change the issue.

“That is the way they operate. Address the issues and if you are not capable of doing them step aside.”

The senator representing Kwara Central took a swipe at the National Planning Minister, Dr Abubakar Suleiman, for his criticisms of the Saraki’s dynasty.

He urged the minister to face the business of governance instead of vilifying the Sarakis.

His words: “We have ministers now that all they do is just to go on abusing us, instead of focusing on the issues.

“I have not even heard the minister of national planning talk about the economy or the planning. All I hear is Saraki, Saraki and Saraki.”

gress (APC) urged Nigerians to use the 2015 general election to bring desirable development to the country.

“The only thing that can salvage Nigeria’s situation is to seize the opportunity of next year’s election to bring about change by voting in APC.” Tambuwal said with the quality of Daramola’s contributions as a lawmaker, he did not expect less from him. He urged other lawmakers to emulate him.

Fayemi urged the people to give priority to infrastructural development.

“For us as progressives, health is wealth. The health of our people matters to us than sharing of public money.”

In respect of the June 21 election, Fayemi said: “Some miscreants were deployed in Ekiti from Abuja to rig the polls. My advice to my people is that they should keep the peace and that the truth will soon prevail.”

Oni said the hospital would improve the life expectancy of the people.

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has said there is no agreement on a consensus candidate.

Makinde, a businessman, denied yesterday that G7 aspirants from Ibadan endorsed a candidate.

His campaign organisation, Omititun, in a statement by Akeem Azeez, said the rumour of a consensus candidate was to demoralise supporters of other aspirants.

“At no time during the meeting of the G7 did they

Ambode: I’ll respect lawmakers

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N All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Lagos State, Akinwumi Ambode, has promised to respect the legislature, if he is elected.

He spoke at a private dinner with members of the House of Assembly as part of his mobilisation drive to emerge the candidate.

His campaign got a boost with the attendance of 36 of the 40 members. The lawmakers gave him a standing ovation.

Ambode told them he would not only respect the legislature if elected, but he would also submit himself to the party’s authority.

The aspirant promised to build on the achievements of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Governor Babatunde Fashola.

He also highlighted his core programmes under the acronym: LAGOS - Leadership, Accountability, Good Governance, Opportunities and Service and promised not to let the state down.

Ambode, who declared to run at the Onikan Stadium last month, will begin a tour of the local governments today, according to a statement by his campaign organisation.

‘Lagos APC primaries must hold’

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GROUP, Eko Democratic Movement (EDM), has said the

only way the All Progressives Congress (APC) can win in Lagos State is to ensure that the governorship candidate emerges through a fair process.

Inaugural lecture/dinner on Saturday

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agree to endorse a consensus candidate.

The group only deliberated on having a rancour-free primaries and the need to present the most popular candidate for the good of the party and to support the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.

On the ward congress, Makinde said he had respect for the party’s leaders, who sent an appeal panel to hear complaints of aspirants.

“We await the report of the panel chaired by a former minister of Prof ABC Nwosu.”

ET 30 of the Masters of International Law and Diplomacy (MILD), University of Lagos, Akoka, will hold an inaugural lecture/dinner on Saturday.

The event with the theme: “New Order of Diplomatic Practice for Nigeria”, will hold at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

The course representative, Abolanle Abdul-Salam, said: “This is first in the department and we hope it will be an event that would become a reference point for those coming after us.

“The event was organised to prepare the graduating students for the task of conducting a successful diplomacy. We also intend to showcase and appreciate our tutors for their dedication.”

A keynote address would be delivered by Prof Akin Oyebode, a renowned professor of International Law. The event will also be attended by Dr. Adesina Fagbenro Byron, the regional co-ordinator. UK Aid Department for International Development, who will speak on the theme.

In a statement by its Chairman, Abdulrasak Babajide, the group said what would make the party attractive to the electorate was to ensure that its governorship candidate is acceptable to all.

Babajide said: “We cannot afford to toy with the sensibilities of our people now that they are becoming conscious of their rights.

“The APC remains the party to beat and we have to get it right. And to get it right, we have to pick the right candidate and to have the right candidate; we have to create a credible process for his or her emergence.

That is why we are calling on the party leadership to give the aspirants a levelplaying field.

“That is our minimum demand and this is what we think can put the party on a sound footing before next year’s election. Any imposition of candidate would create unnecessary animosity, acrimony and divisions which we don’t want.”

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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NEWS

Three killed as police, kidnappers battle HE Police Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Anambra State and a six-man gang of suspected kidnappers yesterday engaged in a gun battle at Okpoko in Ogbaru Local Government.

Three suspects died in the incident.

A victim, Mrs. Edith Maduekwe, who was kidnapped by the suspects on October 4 at Oba in Idemili South Local Government, was rescued at Oraukwu in Idemili North Council.

Seven hundred and seventy-six thousand naira, which was part of the N1.4million ransom paid by the victim’s family, was recovered.

Items recovered from the suspects included one Ak-47 rifle with 90 rounds, one pump action gun with 10 live cartridges, charms, etc.

Parading the suspects, police spokesman Uche Ezeh said the leader of the gang, Charlie Parker, had been on the wanted list for four years.

He said acting on a tip-off, the SARS Commander, James Nwafor, led his men

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•17 arrested for child trafficking, car snatching From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

to Okpoko where the suspects were sharing the ransom.

According to him, when the suspects saw the police, they opened fire.

Ezeh said three suspects were killed, while three were arrested with injuries, adding that one of them led the police to where the victim was rescued, before he died.

He said the suspects demanded N50million from the victim’s family before the amount was reduced to N1.4million, which was paid to them.

Seventeen suspects were paraded by the command for vandalism, rape, child trafficking and car snatching.

Two women were apprehended for allegedly involving in child trafficking at Ihiala.

One of the women, 32year-old Oluchi Eze, was said to own a brothel (Mancho Hotels) at Uli in

Ihiala Local Government.

She was allegedly involved in selling a child for N400,000 with Ikenna Nzomiwu (at large), after snatching the baby from Chinyere Ohamuzo.

They allegedly carried out the child trafficking on October 28 at Uli in Ihiala Local Government.

Also, 22-year-old Chidiebere Ohanome from Unuobo village in Okija allegedly sold her son to an un-named woman for N200,000 after delivery in Onitsha.

She told The Nation that she wanted to abort the pregnancy, but was allegedly lured into child trafficking by one Dozie.

Others paraded included four men arrested for alleged car snatching.

They are 26-year-old Chigozie Obeleagu from Imo State, 25-year-old Kelechukwu Okoye from Orlu in Imo State, 56- yearold Peter Nnadika, also from Imo State and 38-year-

old Oliver Adaonu from Nsukka in Enugu State.

Chibuzor Udensi from Okija, Okoli Udochukwu, Onyemechi Chibueze and Asuquo Effiong from AkwaIbom were paraded for allegedly vandalising the property of the Power Holdings Company of Nigeria (PHCN).

The command also paraded Ezenwoko Fred, who claimed to be a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State for alleged robbery.

The “final year Electrical/ Electronics Engineering student”, who hails from Ebema, Omoku in Rivers State, claimed he was given a pistol by his friend, Frank, to intimidate a girl, who refused to yield to his advances after collecting his money.

The police spokesman said the suspects would be investigated and prosecuted.

He urged parents to monitor their children, saying the command would make the state crime-free.

Civil defence parades six suspected pipeline vandals From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

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HE Abia State command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has paraded six men suspected to be oil pipeline vandals.

The suspects were caught digging a hole to set their valve on the pipeline to steal oil.

The NSCDC Commandant, Andy Dateer, said in Umuahia, Abia State capital that his men were determined to rid the state of vandals.

He said his men arrested the men while digging a hole to mount their valve on the pipeline to siphon petroleum products.

The NSCDC boss said two of the suspects, Stephen Onwueje and Chisom Maduabuchi, claimed they were workers of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) working with the surveillance team.

Dateer said he wondered what the two men were doing at midnight in the heavy rain, wearing boxers and holding rods, cutlasses, screw drivers, hand drill, among others; digging around a pipeline.

He named the other suspects as Echefula Omeihi, 30, a farmer, who hails from Ekeakpara village in Osisioma Local Government and Chidiadi Sunday, 28, of Ugbo’s compound, Umuagbai in Umuele Osisioma Local Government.

The rest are Ahamefula Emmanuel, 31, a driver from Akpunaekpu village in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government and Nkemjika Egbufor, 30, from Ekeakpara village in Osisioma Council.

The NSCDC commandant said other items recovered included two motorcycles, hammers, rain boots, one big valve, touch light and rods.

He said his command was determined to rid the state of pipeline vandals.

Dateer thanked Governor Theodore Orji for his support and the security agencies for their co-operation.

He said the suspects would soon be arraigned.

The NSCDC boss enjoined the public to be vigilant.

Why I visited Ojukwu’s grave, by Umeh

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•The suspected car snatchers from left: Obeleagu, Okoye, Nnadika and Adaonu, at the SARS office...yesterday.

Inset: Money and items recovered.

Ex-minister, SSG, commissioner make Ebonyi PDP delegates’ list T HE crisis in the Ebonyi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) worsened at the weekend, as a faction claimed it conducted the local government congress.

The Chairman, Ben Akpa, claimed that there was no congress, as the committee sent by the national secretariat refused to conduct the congress.

He said: “They (the committee) insisted that they wanted to use the list of returning officers, signed by the deputy chairman, instead of the one submitted by the state working committee and the substantive chairman. So, we argued it and they insisted that unless they were allowed to use the deputy chairman’s list, the elections would not hold.

“He (committee chairman) also said he got a call that unless he used the list from Abuja, he was not to conduct the election. After saying that he got up and left.”

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

But the Acting Chairman Onwe Joseph Onwe-led faction claimed it conducted the congress.

It said the former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Amb. Frank Ogbuewu, Senator Nguji Ngele, a former commissioner in Martin Elechi’s administration, Dr. Norah Aloh and 10 others emerged as elected national delegates for the national congress.

The faction said 513 ward delegates emerged through the congresses conducted on November 1.

Others on the faction’s national delegates lists included Sunday Igwewa, Chief Tony Abel, Chief Chukwuma Igwe, Emmanuel Mbaechina, Bonny Ofoke, Prof. Ozo Nwke Ozo, a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

Onwe said despite the ploy

by some elements to cause disaffection, the exercise went peacefully because of the maturity and disposition of the people to democratic tenets.

A section of the PDP in the state expressed reservations about the conduct of the elections. Onwe said the elected delegates at the three-man ad hoc ward congresses and the national delegates were men and women of proven integrity.

He said the party had no doubt that the delegates

would represent the party well, having occupied positions of authority at the state and national levels.

Onwe thanked the National Working Committee and the panels, which conducted the exercise, for their patience and dexterity.

“We hail the dexterity shown by the panels sent to Ebonyi State to conduct the congresses, particularly the Chairman of the National Delegate Congress Committee, Dr. Willy Ogbeide and the members,” he said.

HE National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, has said he visited the grave of Ikemba Nnewi Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu because of what he stood for in Igbo land and Nigeria.

Umeh, who is vying for the Anambra Central seat on his party’s platform, visited Ojukwu’s grave at Nnewi last Thursday to mark the third anniversary of his birthday.

He was accompanied by the Sole Administrator of Nnewi North Council, Chukwuemeka Ojukwu (Jnr.), APGA chieftains, among others.

Umeh, addressing a crowd, said those who left APGA, thinking it would die, would be disappointed, adding that the party was growing.

He said it would win elective positions in the general elections.

The APGA national chair-

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

man said the late Ojukwu stood for justice.

His words: “There is nothing we do for our hero that will be too much. We will continue to adore him, we will continue to worship him, we will continue to remember him in our homes, groups and party.

“Our leader, we know you are seeing us. We have come to pay you respect. Ndigbo are proud of you, but it is unfortunate that those you prepared for future have deserted you.

“Those people are not true sons of Igbo land. Anybody who does not recognise your worth and what you stood for in Igbo land, will not be recognised anywhere.”

Umeh said he would be the last person in Igbo land, who would forget what Ojukwu did for Ndigbo, adding that his visit to his grave was to show him respect.

Police foil bank robbery From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

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HE police in Aba, Abia State, have foiled a bank robbery.

A patrol team from Abayi Police Station was said to have foiled the robbery at a new generation bank at Udeagbala junction, off Aba-Owerri Road, Aba. The incident, The Nation learnt, occurred on Saturday morning.

It was gathered that the robbers, after scaling the fence, tied the two private security guards and entered the bank, heading for the vault, carrying a gas cylinder and other tools.

Our source said the robbers were not arrested, as they fled when the police arrived.

There was no official comment from the Abia Police Command.

However, a police source, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the incident. He said the police recovered the gas cylinder, as the robbers abandoned it.

Forum backs governorship candidate

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NUGU State chapter of the Nigerian Councillors’ Forum has backed the consensus governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

The development has reduced the tension between Governor Sullivan Chime’s and Ike Ekweremadu’s factions, which are struggling for the

From Chris Oji, Enugu

control of the party structure.

The councillors supported the zoning of the governorship seat to Enugu North.

The forum made its view known in a statement by its Chairman, Hyginus Makata and Secretary, Francis Ani, a lawyer.

It said: “We support the leadership of the party in the state on the zoning of the

governorship seat to Enugu North, in the spirit of fairness and equity.

“We thank Governor Chime for the programmes he has been putting in place to ensure a smooth political transmission.

“We are not just supporting the endorsement of Ugwuanyi, but are also part of his endorsement by the state caucus of our party and the stakeholders.”

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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CITYBEATS ‘Collect permanent voters’ cards’

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ESIDENTS of Mushin Local Government Area of Lagos State have been urged to troop out to collect their permanent voters’ cards where they registered and voted during the last elections.

Speaking during stakeholders’ consultative meeting at the council’s secretariat, its Manager, Mr Rasaq Oladeji appealed to the residents who had obtained temporary voters’ cards to make efforts to get the permanent ones in order to be eligible to vote for candidates of their choice.

Saying that one of the civic responsibilities of a responsible citizen is to vote during elections, he said only the permanent voters’ cards would qualify a Nigerian for voting during the next elections.

Oladeji said the permanent cards are to be collected at the very centre where the registration was done, more so, where one had voted in the past elections.

He said those who would not be able to collect theirs within the three days allowed for the exercise need not entertain any fear, as arrangements have been concluded for them to go to INEC offices in their local government areas, especially at Oliyide Street, opposite the Mushin General Hospital.

He assured residents that INEC officials would be on hand from 9am to 4pm between November 7 and 9.

“Those who have not obtained the voters’ cards at all and have attained 18 years of age have November 12 till 17 to register. No eligible Nigerian will be denied their rights to vote,” he concluded.

Ailing mother seeks N10m to live S

INCE May 12, when 32-year-old mother of two Mrs. Tinuade Oyetunbi was diagnosed of renal failure, peace has remained elusive to her household. Despite their efforts and fervent prayers, her poor husband, family and relations have been in the throes of hopelessness.

The diagnosis was carried out by Dr. O. Okunade, the Consultant Nephrologist at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH).

She has since been managed at the hospital for “advanced chronic kidney disease - Stage 5 - which demands Type 1 dialysis, pending when definite treatment will be administered on her.

Out of desperation to make Tinuade, who hails from Ile-Ife in Osun State, live, her husband, a driver at a private company, has sold valuables in order to afford N60,000 weekly for dialysis.

One of their neighbours at their For Sure, Idi Orogbo Street, Bogije Ajah, Lagos home, Mrs Bola Atanda, lamented that since the couple got married in 2011, their two children “have not enjoyed motherhood as a result of the illness.”

The ailing woman, according to her elder sister, Mrs Sade Fakeye, was relocated to 4, Adewole Street, off Nike Oyawoye, Dada Estate, Osogbo, Osun State capital, to enable her easier access to medical attention at the OAUTH. According to Mrs. Fakeye, the patient’s condition had become a nightmare to the family “because we have been drained of all our resources. And quite sadly, despite the dialysis sessions, his condition is not getting better.”

As a way out, she said doctors had recommended kidney transplant in an Indian

‘My husband placed magun on me’

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FOR 19 years, my husband never forced me to make love with him. But, surprisingly, 10 days after his brother claimed he dreamt that I was in an affair with another man, he forcefully slept with me; afterwards, I started having unceasing stomach upset.”

These were the words of a 38-year-old trader, Funke Akinshola, who is praying the Customary Court in Alakuko, a Lagos suburb, to dissolve her marriage to her husband, Dare.

She said: “It was a very severe, sharp pain. It was so painful that I felt as if I wanted to go into labour.

When it became most unbearable, I told my cousin, a traditional practitioner, who told me my husband placed ‘magun’ on me. He advised me to be drinking my urine mixed with palm oil. Truly, each time I drink it, I get relieved.

“However, since then, I have not had peace of mind. In fact, I had to leave the house. But I keep wondering why my hus-

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

By Basirat Braimah

band went that far. His younger brother caused all the trouble in our marriage because we hardly quarrelled until he made that allegation against me.

I also want my daughter in my custody.”

Her husband, who said “almost everything she said is true,” however, added: “But I have also been suspecting her movement because her attitude has changed. Since she brought our matter to court, I don’t love her anymore.”

The union, which was sealed under the Native and Customary Law, is blessed with three children - Paul (17), Michael (15) and Rachael (12).

The court’s President, Chief Awos Awosola, ordered Mr. Akinshola to allow the children stay with their mother every weekend.

He advised the parties not to invade each other’s privacy and adjourned the matter till November 27.

•Mrs Oyetunbi...before the ailment began

fate of her children is in ‘theThehands of God. Everyone is praying to Him to spare their mother’s life so that they can grow up to know her. Indeed, their future is in God’s hands as their mother is waiting either for help or death to come without further delay

By Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

hospital, adding that the surgery would gulp a whopping N10million, which, unfortunately, the family cannot afford.

“We urgently need the help of kind-hearted people, organisations and even government, to assist us with cost of sending her abroad for the kidney transplant,” Mrs Fak-

’

eye said.

Also in a statement, another sympathiser, Elder Sanya Ojo urged Nigerians to come to Tinuade’s support for her to surmount her current travails.

“At this point, we have to appeal to the large-hearted governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, to come to her aid.

Other state governors, House of Representatives’

•Mrs Oyetunbi...after

members, senators and other privileged but kind Nigerians should not be left out in this save-a-soul campaign,” Ojo pleaded.

Fearing that Tinuade’s life might be terminated if no proper attention is given her condition without further delay, he added that her sister could be reached on 08036908706. He also gave his phone contact as 08033340285.

When asked about the fate of the woman’s children and the input of her parents, Ojo exclaimed: “Ah, don’t mention her parents;

both are not only poor, they are in grief out of frustration. Even before their daughter’s ailment began, they hardly knew where the next meal would come from, let alone now that their daughter is in a terrible state.

“The fate of her children is in the hands of God. Everyone is praying to Him to spare their mother’s life so that they can grow up to know her. Indeed, their future is in God’s hands as their mother is waiting either for help or death to come without further delay.”

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MAJOR access road Abeokuta Street that connects the entire Owode-Onirin community in Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and Ketu-Ikorodu Road axis in Lagos, is in complete disrepair.

Vehicle owners among residents of the affected street, under the aegis of Abeokuta Street Residents Association (ASRA), can no longer drive in and out of the street.

Also, the activities of other private and commercial motorists who ply the road to avoid the usual traffic gridlock on Ikorodu highway have been halted.

The association’s Public Relations Officer, Shafe Ewuola, told The Nation that the unabated deterioration of the road had paralysed normal business activities in the area.

“Even commercial motorcyclists can no longer take passengers through the road to their desired destinations as they are dropped off, a great distance from the street’s entrance, to trek home, thus exposing residents to dangers of being waylaid or robbed outright,” he said.

Operators of various businesses in the area are now

•The road ... last week

Residents groan as road collapses

By Basirat Braimah

grappling with poor sales and the inability of the suppliers of their various wares to access the road for their usual transactions.

Following the association’s save-our-soul moves to draw the attention of the Local Government’s Chairman, Hon. Obafemi Durosinmi, he led a team of his officials on inspection tour of the area.

The council boss, it was gathered, promised that the LCDA would assist with palliative measures since complete re-

habilitation of the road is a project beyond the financial capabilities of the council.

“We understand that he has written to the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, to get assistance from the state to fix the road,” Ewuola said, adding: “While the state government and the LCDA have pledged urgent action, residents are still waiting for the redemption of their promises.”

Communal efforts to salvage the situation through house-to-house levy have not yielded result because of the

degree of degradation being suffered by the road.

Out of frustration, the residents have continued to express their dissatisfaction over the poor maintenance of the road which, painfully, was constructed by concerned residents.

While many are threatening mass boycott in the coming elections, some residents have threatened to cast their votes to opposition parties if doing so would solve the problem for what they considered gross neglect of the infrastructure, a resident said.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Lagos officials, community leaders walk for fitness

Man ‘hides 2.235kg cocaine in shoes’

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

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•The drug ... inside one of the shoes

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FFICIALS of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a suspected drug trafficker with 2.235 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed in female shoes imported from Brazil.

Mama Solomon was caught with the illicit drug at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Ikeja, Lagos during a search on passengers on board an Etihad flight.

The agency’s Lagos Airport Commander, Mr. Hamza Umar, said: “The suspect claimed to be a shoe merchant, but during interrogation, it was revealed that he only used the shoes as modes of concealing the cocaine. Mama Solomon had two bags containing female shoes and hand bags. The drug was discovered in the soles of the female shoes and he was im-

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

mediately arrested”.

The 27-year-old Enugu State-born suspect, however, said: “I live and work in Brazil. I was given the drug with a promise that I would be handsomely rewarded if I successfully deliver the bag in Nigeria. They also assured me that somebody would help me in collecting the bags at the airport in Nigeria. Unfortunately, officers demanded to search my bag and in the process, the cocaine was found in my bag.”

The Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade, said the agency would continue to detect hidden drugs and prosecute traffickers.

He also urged the public not to relent in their effort at reporting suspected drug dealers to the agency.

“This seizure will serve as a warning to drug cartels. Efforts shall be inten-

•Mama with the bags containing the substance ... yesterday

sified to train and retrain officers on interdiction techniques and intelligence gathering in order to maintain our superiority over

‘Clue for low-cost housing’

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HE leadership of Estate, Rent and Commission Agents Association of Nigeria (ERCAAN), Lagos State chapter, has sought a well-coordinated partnership with the government and mortgage institutions to make affordable shelter available for the poor.

The position was reached at the weekend during the 18th Annual General Meeting/Conference, which was held at the Adeyemi-Bero Hall, Alausa, Ikeja in Lagos.

Its theme was: “Mortgage: An antidote for sustaining the housing millennium goal.”

The association’s national president, Emmanuel Dare, led other leaders of the

By Basirat Braimah

group from across the country to grace the occasion which was hosted by the Lagos chapter under the headship of Hon. Godwin Alenkhe. The state government was also represented on the occasion.

Alenkhe, who described the LAGOS HOMES project of the Babatunde Fasholaled administration as laudable, said “we have projected into the future of real estate development in Lagos State and realised that a well-packaged mortgage scheme is the lasting solution to home ownership.”

“Our closeness to the peo-

‘Insecurity won’t last’

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HE General Overseer of Cherubim & Seraphim Unification Church of Nigeria (Agbala Iwosan) at OkoOba, Abule-Egba, a Lagos suburb, Rev. Prophet Dr. C. O. Irapada Obisanya, has assured Nigerians of an end to the menace of Boko Haram insurgency.

The cleric, who has just returned from a 21-day “spiritual search”, described the spate of insecurity in the country as worrisome.

In a communiqué, he

condemned the activities of the Boko Haram insurgents which he lamented, had been causing untold suffering on Nigerians.

Obisanya urged government, the armed forces, other security agencies and all Nigerians to unite to prevent the activities of the group from spreading.

The state and local government across the country, the cleric advised, must join hands with the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration to address the situation to avoid further escalation.

ple at the grassroots has shown that we can be trusted because of our pedigree in real estate management. It will be more credible when a professional association like ours is encouraged to invest in the building industry. ERCAAN in the state is fully prepared to partner both the state government and mortgage institutions to make shelter available to Lagosians,” he added.

To give the state government’s housing project a legup, Alenkhe advised that every local government in the state must have a mortgage and loan department for licensed developers to access loans.

“If serious commitment and sacrifice are made by government and private sectors, then the goal of making houses affordable and available for us can be achieved at the close of the millennium,” he noted.

The association’s state Financial Secretary, who was among the awardees on the occasion, Hon. Clement Adegbuaro, said the body “is deeply committed to assisting the homeless in whatever way while on the other hand, it is lending its full support for the government at satisfying the housing yearnings of the generality of the people.”

drug traffickers. The NDLEA shall continue to seize narcotic drugs and prosecute offenders,” Giade assured.

The suspect, it was gathered, risks fifteen years jail term if convicted on the charge of unlawful possession of cocaine

O celebrate the 2014 Community Day in Lagos, scores of government officials and community leaders at the weekend staged a health walk for fitness in the Ikeja area of the state.

The walk, which started at the Ikeja Local Government secretariat, through Obafemi Awolowo Way to the Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, was flagged off by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Sports, Ministry of Youth and Sport, Mr. Sewedo Oluseyi Whenu.

Members of the Community Development Associations (CDAs), Neighbourhood Watch and government officials turned out for the walk.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Health, Dr. Yewande Adeshina, harped on the need for communities and CDAs to champion health walk in their communities.

Adeshina, who was represented by Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho of the State Primary Health Board, advised the participants to be mindful of what they eat in order to remain healthy.

Drinking water, especially first in the morning, is good for the body; eating of vegetables, olive oil and non-fatty food to aid the heart, is also essential for body growth, he said.

Commissioner for Rural Development, Cornelius Ojelabi, advised the people to exercise their bodies and keep fit to live longer and also reduce resources spent on hospital bills and time wasted at hospitals.

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THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

NEWS

Man kills uncle over land dispute

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31-year old man from Afaha Akpan Ekpo village in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Emmanuel Akpan, has killed his 67-year old uncle, Joseph Akpan, over a land dispute.

The daughter of the deceased, Ms Ini Joseph, said the problem started when her father took a surveyor to one of his parcels of land to measure and evaluate.

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

She said it was to enable him know how much he would sell it.

Ms Joseph said Emmanuel visited their home, asking why her father parted with threequarters of the proceeds from the land.

Ini said Emmanuel told her father that the payment was a requirement by their “cult”

group from anyone who sold a piece of land.

Ini said her father told Emmanuel that he only took a surveyor to the land to measure it to know its market value.

She said Emmanuel asked her father to surrender his share of the money.

According to her, Emmanuel allegedly stole N90,000 from the land’s proceeds and stabbed her father several times.

The deceased’s daughter added that her father was rushed to a nearby hospital where he died.

She said: “My father only took a surveyor to the land to measure it so that he would know its value, if he eventually wanted to sell it. But Emmanuel, who saw the surveyor on the land, went to my father when he returned home and asked him for his share of the proceeds from the land.”

Delta PDP aspirants meet Clark over Obuh

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From Bolaji Ogundele, Warri

ELTA State governorship aspirants on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have said they will not allow Sir Tony Obuh to be imposed on the party.

One of the aspirants, Chief Kenneth Gbagi, addressed reporters yesterday in Warri after a meeting at the Golden Tulip Hotel and a consultation with Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, in his Warri home. But the convener of the Delta Unite for Tony Obuh (DUF), Chief Ayiri Emami, said the anti-Obuh aspirants were enemies of the PDP. The coordinator said Obuh was qualified to be governor.

There have been rumours that Obuh is Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s anointed choice to replace him in 2015.

This has generated disquiet among other aspirants.

Those at the Warri meeting last night included Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, former House of Assembly Speaker Victor Ochei and Prof Sylvester Monye. Addressing reporters after meeting the Ijaw leader, Gbagi said the aspirants, including Deputy Governor Amos Utuama, rejected the imposition of any aspirant on the party.

NAFDAC partners IITA From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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•Former chairman, Presidential Committee on Power, Bekimbo Dagogo-Jack and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship (right), at a mega rally in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Peterside: Pipeline vandalism is national tragedy

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HE Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, has said incessant pipeline vandalism is a tragedy and a national calamity.

Reacting to the pipeline explosion at Ijegun oil facility in Ije Ododo, Lagos, the lawmaker wondered why there had been no action on pipeline vandalism, despite its threat to the economy.

He said: “Every responsible country consciously puts its best at work to deliver services. When there is a shortfall in the service delivery, the citizens should naturally ask questions.

“Today, Nigerians are asking questions and equally demanding answers from those who are paid to secure our oil and gas infrastructure. Sadly, we are not getting value for the huge investments in securing our pipelines.”

Peterside said it was unacceptable for the nation to surrender to vandals, who continued to frustrate the efforts to secure the pipelines.

The lawmaker stressed that there should be a change in the people’s attitude to solving problems, if Nigerians hoped to make the situation better.

He said: “Nigerians, more than ever before, are demanding for responsive and accountable leadership across

board. We all know that time is running out. We can no longer afford to do nothing concrete and wish that this nightmare would disappear one day. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) must wake up and justify the billions of naira spent on pipelines security.”

Peterside warned that ordinary Nigerians were making enough sacrifices, adding that any action that would exacerbate the hard times through petroleum scarcity would be callous.

He said: “We must all remember that we will account some day for every little thing we fail to do as individuals or groups towards making our

world better than we met it.”

The lawmaker condemned Nigerians who destroy ig their country’s commonwealth to make money.

He said: “There is no justifiable reason for any person or group of persons to declare war on their country’s public infrastructure. What is happening is economic sabotage and criminality of the highest order. And if anybody is caught damaging pipelines, he or she should be treated as a criminal. This time calls for vigilance.”

Peterside urged pipeline vandals to remember that Nigeria is their fatherland, adding that all do everything possible to save her.

Oshiomhole may recall sacked Perm Sec, CMD

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DO State House of Assembly Speaker Uyi Igbe and other leaders of the Assembly have pleaded with Governor Adams Oshiomhole to recall the sacked Permanent Secretary in the Edo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr Ofure Eboreime, and the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Central Hospital in Benin, Dr Edith Kayode-Iyasere.

The two doctors were sacked last week by the governor for engaging casuals at the Central Hospital.

Igbe led Majority Leader Philip Shaibu, Elizabeth Ativie and Folly Ogedengbe to Oshiomhole, seeking his leniency for the sacked doctors.

He said: “We are here, the leadership of the Edo State House of Assembly, to see you (governor) about Dr. Ofure Eboreime, the Permanent Secretary, Hospital Management Board and Dr. Mrs. Edith Iyasere, the Chief Medical Director, HMB. “The House Standing Committee on Health once went to the hospital and did oversight

•Edo Speaker Igbe pleads with governor functions there. We found that Dr Eboreime is very competent.

“We are here to appeal to you, sir, to temper justice with mercy and recall Dr. O. Eboreime and Mrs. Iyasere.

“We know that you will not compromise on standards. We appreciate that because that is the reason Edo State has moved to the position it is today.

“Sir, I am sure every now and then, people make mistakes. I am sure this is one of the mistakes that people make.

I ask on their behalf that you please forgive them.”

Folly Ogedegbe, representing Owan East, also begged the governor to forgive the two doctors.

He said: “Even then when you were the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, we knew your stand on casualisation. You fought against casualisation of workers. I can imagine how embarrassed you were when you knew that there were casuals in the state service where you have long given di-

rectives that it should not happen...”

Oshiomhole said: “Yours is a parliament that is the representative of the people, one that has its ears to the ground and one that is committed to the electorate. I know that when we take decisions, we do receive pressure. But let me explain why I took the decision.

“I am very privileged to be here and I am an employee. All my life, what I have done for a living is to defend workers.

“When we talk of workers, it’s not just junior workers. But we make a representation for the big and for the small and for the anonymous. I do not take any joy; in fact, it is always a sad moment for me when I take a decision to relieve anybody of his or her job.

“Someone drew my attention to the fact that casuals were protesting over non-payment of their salaries and that they had not been paid for several months.

“This was shocking to me

•Oshiomhole

because though our finances are difficult and despite the fact that many other state governments are in default in the payment of salaries, some three months, some four months, I insisted that in Edo State, the pay day is sacrosanct. Workers are entitled, as a right, to their wages.

“So, to hear that some workers were protesting for not being paid for up to six months was shocking.”

The governor assured Assembly’s leadership that he would heed their pleas.

He urged the lawmakers to bring the two doctors to his office today.

HE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan have embarked on a sensitization campaign to educate the public on aflatoxin management in Nigeria.

Speaking at the second edition of the sensitization workshop in the Southwest zone which took place in Ado-Ekiti over the weekend, the Director General of the agency, Dr Paul Orhii who was represented by Mrs Stella Denloye stated that the objective of the programme was to highlight and bring to the fore the extent of aflatoxin contamination in Nigeria’s stable food and export commodities.

He also stated that this will enable the public to know the potential health implications of c?onsuming aflatoxin to the population and the negative economic impact on trade and foreign exchange earnings.

According to Dr Debo Akande and Mr Joseph Atehnkeng, who both represented IITA at the workshop, said Aflatoxin is a potent carcinogen produced by some species of aspergillus fungi, most commonly found in maize and groundnut which contamination has harmful health effects for the consumers and negative economic consequences for the growers.

My drivers’ killer won’t go scot-free, says Al Makura

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ASARAWA a State Governor Umaru Al-makura of Nasarawa State yesterday said those who killed the head driver of the state Government House, Abdullahi Mairuwa, “will not go scot free”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Al-makura gave the assurance when he stopped over at the spot where the deceased was shot to death by some yet to be identified gunmen.

The governor decried the incessant killings and attacks along Lafia-Obi-Keana road and pledged to beef up security in the area.

NAN reports also that the governor, who visited Keana to commiserate with the family of the deceased, was received by the the traditional chief of the area and the senator representing the constituency. Almakura described the death as unfortunate and a great loss to the state.

He urged the family to regard the incident as an act of God, as no mortal would live beyond the time destined by God. The governor used the occasion to urge people of the state to always be their brother’s keeper, and be patient with one another.

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Wike: I’m not a cultist

GOVERNORSHIP aspirant of the Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, has said he has never been into cultism.

The former Minister of State for Education said he would never be associated with the occult world.

He spoke yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital, at a church service at the Royal House of Grace.

He said: “When they attempted to kill me on December 3, 2007 and I escaped, they started to peddle rumours that I belonged somewhere.

God saved me; I belong to God. I have always been for the Lord.

“I was a student here at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) and the Rivers State University of Science and Technology. I never belonged to a cult group. Any fellow student during my days in school, who was a cult member, should come forward to prove otherwise. I have never belonged to a cult group and I will never belong to a cult group.

I come from a religious family and I am a firm believer in God...”

Family releases Tayo Akpata’s funeral programme

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HE family of the late elder statesman, Chief ‘Tayo Akpata, has said his remains will be buried on Friday, November 21, in Benin, the Edo State capital.

The late Ima of Benin died in his Ikoyi, Lagos home on October 13.

A statement at the weekend by the family said the funeral arrangements would begin on November 14 with a memorial dinner and concert at 5pm to celebrate the late statesman’s life and times.

The screening of a documentary, titled: A Sage Goes Home, will hold the same evening at the Landmark Village in Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos.

On November 20, a commendation service will hold at Ikoyi Baptist Church at 8am and the body will be conveyed to Benin same day.

On November 21, a funeral service will hold at 9am at the Central Baptist Church, Kings Square, Benin. A reception will follow at Edo Hotel in G.R.A, Benin.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The bungled Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) distribution has enraged Lagosians and cast a doubt on the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to properly manage the electoral process without a hitch, reports EMMANUEL OLADESU.

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OR five hours, many Lagosians endured the scourging sun, waiting in vain for Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) in 11 councils.

The cards were elusive. Around 5 pm on Friday, prospective voters cried foul. The exercise was bungled in Lagos State.

The exercise was initially billed to take place in 20 local governments. Later, it was reduced to 11. The councils are Agege, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Ifako-Ijaye, Ikeja, Mushin, Lagos Island, Lagos mainland, Ibeju-Lekki, Ikorodu, Kosofe and Ojo. Besides, Lagos State had an issue with the commission over what it called the de-listing of voters from six million to less than five million.

Despite the fact that the electoral commission had four years to accomplish the compilation, it has failed to deliver, four months to next year’s general elections.

According to observers, the failed exercise underscored the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC)’s poor preparation. “There is a looming disaster. If the commission cannot distribute permanent voters’ cards, after many had registered to vote, there is no evidence that it wil be dedicated to a hitch-free poll,” said Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) Publicity Secretary Comrade Joe Igbokwe. “INEC has failed the test of credibility and integrity,” he added.

Ahead of the exercise, leaders of political parties, who had met with INEC officials raised serious doubts about the readiness of the commission for the distribution of the PVCs. Although the agency had enough time to tackle the challenge, it was evident that the task overwhelmed the commission. Thus, the party leaders advised the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Kunle Ogunmola, to postpone the exercise, until November 28. They reasoned that, between now and two weeks, the commission would have corrected its mistakes before the kick-off of the distribution.

Their fears were confirmed when the exercise could not take off in many councils at the weekend. It was expected to be a three-day exercise.

But, nothing was accomplished the first day, to the consternation of party leaders. whose advice were ignored by the agency on the eve of the exercise.

At noon, aggrieved representatives of political parties stormed the INEC office, Yaba, Lagos Mainland, to protest the failure. They alleged that the commission had deliberately deprived Lagosians the PVCs, in a bid to rig next year’s polls in favour of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Across the councils, many prospective voters had trooped out with enthusiasm to obtain the cards. Reflecting on the huge turnout, Lagos State APC Chairman Otunba Oladele Ajomale explained that the state government and the party mobilised registered voters for the exercise.

He said: “Since 2011, we have been telling people to register and be prepared to obtain their cards. We have explained to them the importance of the cards to the electoral process. Lagos has a huge voting population. To enable them get the cards, the government declared a workfree day. Therefore, Lagosians were ready. But, the INEC was not ready.”

Across the five divisions-Lagos, Epe, Ikorodu.

Ikeja and Badagry-it was the same scenario.

In Epe Division, many residents of Agbowa, Ikosi, Ejinrin, Noforija and Epe went home disappointed. A registered voter from Oto-Ikosi, Mr. Isiaka Adekunle Ibrahim, lamented that INEC officials did not show up for the exercise in polling centres. He said many people were worried by the turn of event, having stormed the designated distribution centres early in the morning. “If the INEC cannot get the cards ready by now, it is a serious problem. We have time for the collection because of the one-day holiday declared by the state government. If they had prepared well in other states, they should have prepared better for Lagos,” Ibrahim added.

Igbokwe, who said that the party had been inundated with complaints by members, observed that the exercise has revealed that the INEC is grossly incompetent and ill-prepared for the challenges of 2015. “INEC should wake up from its slumber and rectify this anomaly,” he said.

APC chieftain Senator Gbenga Ashafa said the commission has a long way to go in rekindling public confidence in the electoral process. The

• Human rights activist Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin collecting her Permanent Voter Card (PVC) at a collection centre in Ikeja.

Permanent Voter Cards: Non-negotiable, yet elusive senator, who monitored the distribution in Magodo, said, INEC officials were not available.

He warned against a deliberate plan to disenfranchise registered voters. However, he said the mistake can still be corrected, if there INEC is determined to organise a credible process.

APC National Leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu dismissed the INEC as an inept agency, wondering why it has failed to successfully complete the compilation, almost four years after. “If you have four years for this exercise and four or five months to this election you are still giving excuse, you have failed,” he said.

INEC spokesman Kayode Idowu has attributed the botched exercise to technical problem. He said critical data were lost, following the crashing of storage disk and inability of some officials to properly handle the card readers.s Ajomale yesterday flayed the INEC for bungling the distribution, saying that the APC suspected a foul play. He said the poor showing has vindicated the party’s fears about the competence, credibility and readiness of the umpire to conduct free, fair and peaceful elections next year. He complained that party members were also wor-

ried about the attempt by the INEC to frustrate Lagosians, ahead of the elections. He warned that democracy and the sanctity of the ballot box were under threat, owing to the botched exercise.

Ajomale said: “At our meeting with the INEC, all political parties, including the APC, voiced their anxiety about the unpreparedness of the INEC for the distribution of the PVCs. We have been vindicated. We said they should stop the exercise and postpone it till November 28, when the second phase will commence.

“Our people were prepared for the exercise.

They had trooped out en mass for the distribution. But, the exercise did not take off. From Island to mainland, through Badagry, Ikorodu to Epe, from Mile Two to Bagadry, the exercise failed.”

Ajomale said the INEC would have complained about an attempt by the APC to frustrate the exercise, if the party had called its members to boycott the flawed exercise.

He stressed: “If we had called APC members not to participate, they will say we want to sabotage their effort. They want to frustrate us. We

‘Initially, we had six million. Later, they said it is 4.8 million registered people. They have their own agenda. We will not be intimidated. We will ensure a peaceful exercise. INEC must do a thorough job. That is our demand’

will not be frustrated.”

The party chairman said the work-free day declared by Governor Babtunde Fashola (SAN) to ensure a hitch-free exercise was not effectively utilised by the commission.

Urging Lagosians to stand firm, Ajomale said the agenda of the INEc to disenfranchise them will not see the light of the day.

He said: “Our people should stand form. The exercise has not taken off at all. Let the people of Lagos show them that they are difference, This foul play will not stand.

“Initially, we had six million. Later, they said it is 4.8 million registered people. They have their own agenda. We will not be intimidated.

We will ensure a peaceful exercise. INEC must do a thorough job. That is our demand.

“Lagos declared a holiday because of the exercise. Everywhere we went, people were complaining. They were on queneu for hours under the sun. But, the PVCs were not available. INEC was not available. Noting was done.”

A governorship aspirant, Dr. Leke Pitan, described the exercise as a sham. He said: “It is shameful we still try to play funny games with the simple exercise of distributing voters’ cards.

In many units, our people identified their names on the lists. They were made to sign for their names only to get to the collection points and they could not get their PVCs.” House of Representatives member from Epe Hon, Lanre Odubote advised the INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, to resign. He said: “Voters cards are being given to all Nigerians, but Epe is being denied its right. We have no confidence in the Jega’s ability to be fair to our people and his ability to conduct a credible poll in 2015.

So, if he cannot distribute voters’ cards without problem, he cannot conduct a credible poll.”

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THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

‘

RACE TO 2015 I

From Khadijat Saidu, Birnin Kebbi

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EBBI State All Progressive Congress(APC) has resolved to adopt one governorship aspirants from each of the three senatorial districts before electing one candidate, who will be its flag bearer in next year’s elections.

The Chairman of the Consensus Committee, Alhaji Suleiman Argungu, told reporters in Birnin-Kebbi that the party would finally present only one candidate for the election.

He explained that 10 aspirants, who had indicated interest in the position, are expected to agree on one candidate from their senatorial zone.

“This would enable the party to avoid distraction and pool resources together to other governorship candidates from other parties,”he said Argungu said that Kebbi North Senatorial District has adopted Alhaji Ahmad Sama, adding that the Kebbi South and Central are expected to present their candidates.

“The All Progressive Congress(APC) would continue to explore avenues to ensure that the party emerge victorious at the governorship election through internal democracy, transparency,”he added.

By Fred Dimabo Davies

group in the PDP; illegal and unconstitutional removal of ward, local government and state officers elected at the congress of 2012; the party’s position on zoning and rotation of elective offices, refusal of the State Chapter of the Party to issue Delegates Nomination Forms to members other than those of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI); refusal to receive / collect Nomination Forms obtained from the national Secretariat by some aspirants; Chairman and Members of Congress Panel being loyalists, personal staff and associates of Mr Nyesom Wike, while as Minister of State for Education. Unfortunately, these issues are yet to be denied, given the weight of evidence that support them, which invariably cast a dark shadow over the avowed credibility and competence of Mr Wike.

It is also very important to say that the debate on the next governor of Rivers State, is not necessary about defeating the All Progressives Congress, as Mr Wike alludes to, but about presenting the most competent person to neutralise the angst and charged political climate in Rivers, stabilise the polity and focus on the wellbeing of Rivers people. With such a person, the PDP is bound to succeed at the poll. The reality in Rivers State is that Rivers people are fed-up with politics of bitterness, perpetual conflicts and violence by key political actors. The implication, therefore, is that the education, pedigree, performance records, credibility, overall history of the aspirants will be the basis for arriving at such a critical life-impacting decision by Rivers people and evidence shows that a quarrelsome and garrulous character is not even qualified to be the least of those to be considered. The bar has definitely been raised beyond the reach of pedestrian standards of measurement. Rivers State is not in need of a fighter, but a leader to show direction and inspire productivity among our people.

The argument that Mr. Wike fought to liberate PDP from the stranglehold of his kinsman and ally, Governor Amaechi, is not founded on sustainable logic. The PDP was never in shackles. Wike using Obuah as Chairman and Walter as Secretary, took over the leadership of the PDP and the governor and some of his supporters pulled out. Wike, the former Chief of Staff, was instrumental to the constitution of the same exco he

‘The bar has definitely been raised beyond the reach of pedestrian standards of measurement.

Rivers State is not in need of a fighter, but a leader to show direction and inspire productivity among our people ‘

‘

Confusion over consensus in Kebbi

Rivers 2015: Is Wike favoured by zoning?

T is heart warming to note the shift in reasoning by Mr. Nyesom Wike, who has acknowledged the existence of zoning in the Rivers PDP. Wike shifted ground from his previous position, which has been re-echoed by the Rivers State PDP, which has been hijacked by him, to the effect that zoning doesn’t exist in the PDP. According to Mr. Wike in his recent interview, zoning only applies when the party is in power, which is the reason, in his thinking, that the 2015 gubernatorial contest in Rivers State should be thrown open, until power is gained before zoning of political and elective offices within PDP can become effective.

This thinking is not only illogical; it falls on its face on several fronts. When juxtaposed with the crude and exclusive brand of politics within the State chapter of the party, which shuts out other aspirants and their supporters from Party activities and promotes Wike, it is plain hypocrisy for the same individual to advocate for a right to run while effectively denying others the right to participate in electoral activities within the Party.

Wike’s current position that zoning is only applied when the PDP is in power fails the test of sound reasoning because as at the time the PDP was formed, and zoning enshrined in the Constitution of the Party, it had not won any election. If, we are to discountenance this fact and even go by Mr. Wike’s current position, it would mean that an individual of a particular ethnic group, in this case, the Ikwerre ethnic nationality, can come to power through the PDP, exit the Party for political reasons, while sponsoring or colluding with another individual from the same ethnic group within the PDP to run for office, since the Party had lost power. The ramification of this thinking is better imagined than experienced and it is only deeply treacherous minds that can conceive and promote it.

In the said interview, Mr. Wike also claimed he was the most suitable and best person to fly the Party’s flag to defeat the APC in Rivers State. Again, this is not true, if it was so, why then is there a desperate effort by Mr. Wike and his cronies, to deny others the right to participate in Party? The best and most suitable person to fly the Party’s flag can only be the outcome of open and transparent electoral processes within the Party. Electoral processes that have largely undermined both the Party’s constitution especially on a subject as zoning and restricted participants the right to participate in such processes within the Party, cannot logically result in producing the best candidate for the Party.

Currently, 16 governorship aspirants are crying foul over the handling of the affairs of the Party in the State. Their grievances include: hijack of the PDP in the State by an ethnic based organisation; administration of the PDP to the exclusion of certain members who are not members of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI); non-registration of new party members and revalidation of membership of old members who are opposed to the interests of a

The reality in Rivers State is that Rivers people are fed-up with politics of bitterness, perpetual conflicts and violence by key political actors. The implication, therefore, is that the education, pedigree, performance records, credibility, overall history of the aspirants will be the basis for arriving at such a critical life-impacting decision by Rivers people

•Wike

dislodged. Now it is obvious he did all these for his selfish governorship ambition. An act that totally compromises the State Exco of the PDP. If one is to give him credit for ‘fighting’ an illusive battle, does it not make sense according to biblical injunction that ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’, for one who was appointed Minister in the Federal Government to defend the interest of his principal? Should that be the basis for the reward of Governorship of Rivers State? If one may ask, what is the outcome of the fight? Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi was not impeached, he is still the Governor of state resources. Chibuike has the House of the Assembly in his shadow.

Amaechi has crippled the judiciary and is still antagonistic towards the President and the ruling PDP. Yet, they brag about a fight that was no more than a war of words, without any tangible outcome.

The war of liberation in Rivers State was fought by Ijaw sons and daughters. Neither Wike nor his political associates participated in the fight against military dictatorship and for democracy in Nigeria.

Many like him, have never confronted guns and bullets or even been detained while fighting for justice. So, the assessment and allusion of a liberation war does not hold any truth. If the war in issue is the Amaechi vs Wike fight, then it does not qualify as a war, talk less of liberation. Only an ethnic bigot would not accept that Wike and his gang in GDI lost in the conflict with Amaechi.

To this end, it is not profitable to continue to dwell in delusion and deception, reeling out weak and unbalanced argument to promote treachery that undermines social harmony in Rivers State. Mr. Wike’s recent acceptance of the existence of zoning in PDP should be followed through with good reason and responsible action. Zoning exists, irrespective of the party’s fortune in a state, since it is not stated as a condition in the party’s condition. The desperation by Mr. Wike to clinch power and violate the PDP’s constitution is unfortunate, which, if allowed to thrive by the hierarchy of the PDP, may spell doom for its fortune in Rivers State.

Rivers people are watching how other aspirants of the party are being undermined by Mr. Wike’s cronies in the PDP. To forestall a possible break down of law and order in the state, it is advisable that the authorities step in and address the concerns raised by stakeholders of the party.

•Davies writes from Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Aspirant raises alarm over threat to life

By Musa Odoshimokhe

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HOUSE of Representatives aspirant in Akinyele/Lagelu Con stituency, Oyo State, Hon. Oladimeji Olayinka Segelu, has raised an alarm that his life is being threatened by some politicians in the area.

Segelu said in a statement in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the threat is in connection with his ambition. He urged security agencies to beef up security around prominent politicians before, during and after the polls.

The PDP chieftain lamented that his supporters, who embarked on a sensitisation drive for voters’ registration were attacked by hoodlums at Ogunsowo village, near Oyedeji, in Igbo Elerin area of Lagelu Local Government.

Segelu, who is a close associate of Senator Nurudeen AbatemiUsman however, said no amount of threat, harassment and intimidation could stop him from pursuining his ambition.

He said: “The coming election and subsequent ones will be a matter of choice between merit coupled with credibility and mediocrity coupled with notoriety which are the alternatives open to the people of Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency in 2015. I am confident that the people will go for the most credible candi•Segelu date.”

Senator withdraws from Bauchi governorship race

By Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi.

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IXED reactions have trailed the withdrawal of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed from the governorship race in Bauchi State.

For three and half years, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain has been holding consultations with stakeholders on the ambition.

When ministers who have ambition resigned from the Federal Executive Council (FEC), Mohammed did not resign, fueling suspicion that he has stepped down from the race.

There was enthusiasm among the people that a people-friendly politician would take over from Governor Isa Yuguda. They felt the minister would bring his wealth of experience to bear on governance in the state.

For his kinsmen, who believe he would emerge as the flag bearer, the withdrawal is worrisome.

A 70 year-old indigene, Haruna Usman Duguri ,who lost two sons to snake bites on his farms in 2013, described the withdrawal as an illwind.

He said: ’’My sons Abba 26 and Abdullahi 20 years had gone to harvest sugarcane and pick beans, were bitten by snake and they died because of lack of medical attention. But, we have all along been thinking that, when our son, the Kauran Bauchi, becomes the governor, he will build a hospital for us or find a way of killing the snakes so that we can return to our farms again.

“But, we are disappointed now that he can’t be our governor, and we don’t think any of the aspirants will help us,if he wins the election, even if come out here in Duguri District to vote for him”.

Another indigene, Alhassan Ibrahim, who is from Shafa village, said: “We are all devastated because, you only benefit from government project today, if you have a ‘’big man’’ in the government who belongs to the influential group and who attract the benefits of democracy. I “ was particularly hoping that, if Kauran Bauchi wins the governorship, he will help us get compensation or some form of relief from Yankari Game Reserve management for the massive destruction done to our water mellon, sugarcane, corn and other farm products by elephants yearly, since he is from here.”

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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RACE TO 2015

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times?

I have obtained my nomination form. I am doing it in exercising my inalienable right to seek elective office under our great party, the PDP, and also under the constitution of this country. I am doing it because I have passion for my people and my state.

I am a product of public expenditure.

I was brought up, educated, exposed to public office and also the treasury.

And I feel I have got so much in terms of experience, borne out of my education and my public office, to give to my state so that there will be value addition to the lives of our people.

I was the state co-ordinator for the creation of this state in 1991 before it was carved out of Borno. We were fighting for development.

Unfortunately, we have not realised this dream. The reason why the dream has not been realised is that, from the time the state was created, it has not live up to expectation. With all respect to all those people that led this state at the highest level, the expectation is still unfulfilled. Furthermore, I have come across a number of aspirants to the office. With all respect to them, I am convinced that, based on our public records, I can do better than all of them. That is why I want to give this thing another shot.

I ask this simple question, ‘Why can’t you give up’? But, they said, if all good people refuse to participate, you are going to get the worse.

But, PDP has never won governorship election in Yobe...

The truth of the matter is that I have been into this thing for some time. I have built supporters and structures in this state. I am proud as politician that has gone to the nooks and crannies of this state more than any other politician in Yobe State in the quest for leadership. I can contest under any party on my own identity, but I have

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From: Khadijat Saidu, Birnin Kebbi

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Waziri: Yobe ‘ll be better under my leadership a moral obligation. I was the one who carried the flag of the PDP in 1998 from the old parade ground in Abuja.

We were six. I was one of them. I was the one who carried the flag and the mandate to come to Yobe State and set up the structure of the PDP. It would be absolutely irresponsible to desert the party. I will remain in the party. My dreams may never be fulfilled, but I have an obligation to continue the journey. And that is where I am.

You have described the government of Ibrahim Gaidam as a bad Government. Why did you say so?

Yes. I was asked this question before and I said there are two issues involved. One, there is Ibrahim Gaidam, a nice gentleman, whom we respect, who has contributed his quota like his predecessors to the development of Yobe. But, there is also the government involving him and so many people, but he has to take full responsibility, both for his actions and the actions of his subordinates.

So, I hold him partly responsible for what is happening in the state. I feel that there are quite a number of things that are bedevilling this state that a focused , courageous, experienced, well educated leadership could do better and I feel I can do better if given the mandate.

What do you mean by Human Development Indices (HDI) and do you think you still have those structures to pursue your ambition?

Human Development Indices (HDI) is looking at the standard of education and other performances. If you look at the average pass mark of Yobe students, are they much more qualified to be admitted into tertiary institutions? What is the infant mortality? What is the mortality of our mothers? How many people have access to portable drinking water?

How many have access to self-sustainable employment?

If you become the governor, how

The implication is that the number four citizen of the country is exposed to danger, his life is not secure and, if anything untoward happens to him, we will hold the government responsible

Ex-Kebbi PDP chair joins governorship race

Adamu Maina Waziri is a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP in Yobe State. He has served as the Minister of Police Affairs and Agriculture. In 1999, 2003 and 2007, he was the governorship candidate. He was the party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011.

Now, he has declared his intention to run for the position in next year’s election. When JOEL DUKU met him in Damaturu, the state capital, he spoke on his past electoral defeats and preparations for another contest.

HY are you contesting for the governorship again, de spite your failed bid four

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•Waziri

are you going to address these lapses?

Now, let me give you part of my albatross. Nine out of 10 people in Yobe State still believe I can do the job. Seven out of 10 people are afraid of me. So, I have no problem because I will not allow what they are used to to continue. But, that will not make me change my mind because I will not be deceiving them. I want to maintain an identity. It is left for them to choose. But, the ttruth of the matter is that, if I become the governor, I will be sworn with the Holy Book to discharge my duties, based on my abilities. And I want to take that very serious, and I will do it. So, I assure you that by reputation, based on my antecedents, the moment I was sworn in, there are certain attitudes that will die that moment in Yobe State public service.

How prepared are you for primaries?

The fact that there are two or three or five people contesting for the same position is democracy. Is not antidemocracy. It is democracy. Guide the people, tell them this is democracy. There should be an election. If we don’t have election within our party, we will still have election between political parties. So why don’t we get use to a democratic principles to resolve issues rather than otherwise. So in PDP like in all parties, there are two route in choosing candidate. One, there is what we call consensus, this is where few people decides on behalf of the majority. That is one route. The second route is also what we called the democratic route, alright; where the majority decides from the minority which is during primaries or secondary elections.

These two options have been used by both PDP and other parties to arrives at political conclusions. Ok; is not an issue of do-or-die.

ORMER Kebbi State People Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Alhaji Mansur Shehu has said that political foes are peddling falsehood about his him to edge him out of the governorship race. He refuted the allegation that he did not resign properly from the Nigeria Custom Services.

He told reporters in Birnin Kebbi, the Kebbi State Capital , that the allegation was meant to dent his image and reduce his chance at the poll.

Shehu said that he is a pensioneer because he retired with dignity.

He said: “I retired from the Custom Services since October. I have my documents here with me.”

Shehu that he voluntary retried from the service, adding that his resignation followed the due process when he retired 15 years ago.

He reiterated his determination to run the state and offer a credible leadership.

Shehu added: “Now, if my people later decide not to support me, I have no choice but to withdraw for anybody who they so wish.”

He therefore, appealed to the contenders to prepare for primaries, adding that there will be no imposition.

Shehu promised to work for the economic transformation of the state, promote and an open door policy and create job opportunities for people.

‘Odeda/Obafemi-Owode /Abeokuta North deserves better representation’ From Eric Ikhilae,Abuja

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HE people of Odeda, Obafemi-Owode and Abeokuta North Federal Constituency, Ogun State have been urged to vote for credible candidates in next year’s polls. Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Samuel Abiodun-Oni, who is contesting for the House of Representatives in the constituency, said only credible politicians can work for the good of the society.

He said the need to correct past errors and improve the lives of his people informed his decision to join the race.

Abiodun-Oni, who has obtained his nomination form, said he has passion for development.

He said his commitment to the grassroots motivated him to leave his thriving private business for politics.

Abiodun-Oni, who is the Managing Director of Samfem Construction Company Limited, said he would bring his managerial experience to bear on his legislative duties, if elected as a legislator.

He said: “We are blessed with sufficient human and material resources in our constituency. What we lack today are good and experienced leaders to initiate the needed policies and legal framework to aid growth and development.

“That is where I come in. With my experience as a successful player in the private sector, and having been in politics for some time now, I know I could make the difference in assisting the enactment of functional and relevant laws to aid the most needed growth and development.

“I assure that I will also use my influence when I get to the National Assembly to attract Federal Projects and all other benefits to our people and my constituency.”

The aspirant attended the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Reverend Kuti Memorial Grammar School, Abeotuta and Obafemi Owode Local Government School, Oka via Obafemi, Ogun State.

•Abiodun-Oni

‘Jonathan must act within law’

By Musa Odoshimokhe HE Nigeria Leagues of Democrats (NLD) has charged President Goodluck Jonathan to stop all acts of impunity against the opposi tion in the build up to 2015 elections.

At a conference in Lagos, the National Coordinator of NLD Otunba Omoniyi Adebanjo said the misuse of power by the Federal Government is frightening, noting that it will truncate democracy.

He warned President Jonathan of the dire consequence of withdrawing the security details of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal.

He added that the level of insecurity in the country is already a burden on government and should not embark on any undemocratic journey in order not to escalate the situation.

He said: “The Presidency should as a matter of urgency restore the security details of the Speaker of the House that was withdrawn in commando-like manner.

“The implication is that the number four citizen of the country is exposed to danger, his life is not secure and, if anything untoward happens to him, we will hold the government responsible.”

Adebanjo maintained that government should not do anything undemocratic to heat the polity, stressing that Nigerians were warming up to elect credible democrats who will save the country in 2015.

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•Kaduna State Governor Mukhtar Yero (middle) inaugurating the Ultra-Modern Teachers’ Complex in Kaduna.

With him are: Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kaduna State chapter Mr Audu Amba (left) and Emir of Zazzau Alhaji Shehu Idris.

PHOTO: NAN

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THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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RACE TO 2015

The PDP has derailed. What is attractive in the PDP today? Is it the abduction of over 200 of the Chibok girls that government has not found solution to? Is it the stealing of our money by ministers? There is massive corruption in this country that our President does not know the difference between stealing and corruption

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‘Why I won’t go back to PDP’ Hon. Tayo Alasoadura is the former Commissioner for Finance in Ondo State. He defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), shortly before the 2012 governorship election. The All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial aspirant in Ondo Central District spoke with DAMISI OJO on the chances of the party in next year’s parliamentary elections.

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HAT is your assessment of the political situation in Ondo State?

The Bible is very clear about it when it said any house built on sand will collapse. Governor Olusegun Mimiko has been a political maverick in the past, a man who is totally unreliable, a man who comes to greet you in the house and, when he is leaving , he says good night. One would have to accompany him to the front of the house to see whether it is morning or afternoon. When you are so maradonic, one day, you will dribble yourself and there is a proverb that says those who are too wise sometimes overreach themselves. I think the chicken has come home to roost for him, the defunct Labour Party in Ondo State and the Peoples Democratic Party.

You were in the PDP and later, you defected to the All Progressive Congress (APC). What informed your change?

There are two sides to it. When my good friend, Dr Olusegun Agagu, was alive, he led us very well. He was a good man and we were so friendly that I thought whenever I needed his assistance too, like I gave him all the support when I was serving with him, he would give me support. I wanted to run for the position of a

governor in this state and I told him and I could not see the support coming and this made me not to be too happy. If it were somebody else, I would not mind. But, somebody you had served diligently, somebody you committed everything to, somebody you made his administration one of the best in this country and the best this state ever produced. There was no scandal. Salaries and gratuities were paid on time. No contractor and bank was owed one kobo.

Everything was done according to the law. When he left government, no EFCC harassed him.

Even me the Commissioner for Finance, no EFCC called me once, despite the fact that a very hostile government took over from our administration. I thought those services given should have been enough for him to give me support. The second part is that I saw the PDP drifting. When we started the PDP, because I was one of the founding fathers of the PDP, we had this aim and objective to make Nigeria better. But, after sometime, I discovered that ma-

jority of the people in the PDP wanted to grab money and steal. I as a Chartered Accountant trained in the act of transparency and accountability, I could no more accept bad beaviours that would not be in the interest of our people. I came to politics to serve. I came from a very poor family, worked very hard to get the little I got and after that to now be a party to the wanton plundering of the Nigeria resources, I don’t think I will like that.We wanted to build a national party to be able to retrieve our natural resources that were being used by other states. Our fathers who were in government had tried, but because we were not in the party at the centre, it made it extremely difficult for us to get our oil wells retrieved and, to the glory of God, by the time Dr Agagu was leading the crusade and I was carrying the file, we were able to get 103 oil wells attributed to Ondo State, which is what we are now sitting on today.

Having completed my mission, I felt it was time for me to go back home to the progressive where I

naturally belong.

You talk of progressive politics, what defines your progressivism?

Is it by party affiliation or otherwise?

Progressivism is very simple; a party that looks after the interest of the greater majority of the people; give them good education, ensure that there is gainful employment, to ensure that schools are in good shape, ensure that all the people that are working are paid on time.

Governor Olusegun Mimiko said recently that the APC is not a progressive political party...

I leave that for people to judge, if PDP is taking care of the interest of the people. I would not be the one to go into altercation with Governor Mimiko. Before, he said it was the LP that he belongs that is a progressive. Now, it is the PDP. Do you mean the six years you were in government as a PDP chieftain, you are not taking care of the interest of the people?

No. You know you can start something or have a vision about something and, along the way,

‘I saw the PDP drifting. When we started the PDP, because I was one of the founding fathers of the PDP, we had this aim and objective to make Nigeria better. But, after sometime, I discovered that majority of the people in the PDP wanted to grab money and steal’

• Alasoadura

people can derail. The PDP has derailed. What is attractive in the PDP today? Is it the abduction of over 200 of the Chibok girls that government has not found solution to? Is it the stealing of our money by ministers? There is massive corruption in this country that our President does not know the difference between stealing and corruption. Is it that a woman used N235million to buy two cars that will attract me? Is it that a woman used N10billion to hire an aircraft for her personal use and is still in the government that will attract me? Is a government that cannot arm our solders to confront the insurgency in our country Pand all the money that should be used to buy equipment for our soldiers are pocketed by few people has PDP has derailed, they are not doing what we set out the party to be and I cannot be part of them any more.

Ochicha: I have better agenda for Cross River Cross River State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant Odey Ochicha spoke with NICHOLAS KALU in Calabar, the state capital, on the prospects of his party in next year’s polls.

•Ochicha

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HY you intend to run for governorship?

I have been in several leadership capacities throughout my career. I love leadership. This has prepared and positioned me for leadership and this accounts for my decision to run for the office of the governorship of Cross River State, having been sufficiently groomed in leadership capacities. I am a member of the Nigeria Institute of Management, and Chartered Institute of Personnel Management.

The reason I am running is to simply, sincerely, honestly and humbly serve the people. I like selfless leadership in the mould of Nelson Mandela of South Africa. I believe leadership is to serve and uplift your people. I feel by running for this office, I would be able to help my people and make them happy and move our state from the level it is now to a higher level.

What is your agenda for the state?

For me, we have the best agenda for the people. We intend to do what most leaders have not in Nigeria. My administration would be anchored on three top priorities. It is only one leader in Nigeria that has adopted this strategy and that is the former Premier of the Western region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. What were the top priorities? Education, health and infrastructure. So similarly ours would be so. Education is light and life, progress and development.

Check all the developed nations. If you don’t make education your top priority, forget it. You will remain in darkness. You cannot grow.

Every family or society that wants to be great, education must be your top most priority. So if we assume leadership, education like Awolowo did would remain the most important. The second is health. Health is wealth as we all know. The third which is infrastructure gives us comfort and convenience. These three would be driven by three key economic sectors, which are agriculture, tourism and manufacturing to create job opportunities and generate wealth for our people.

The perception in Cross River State is that the PDP is the only party. What difference can the APC make?

That view holds no water. It was

relevant up till last year. Following the merging of parties to form APC, I don’t think that can be said to stand again. There is no condition that is permanent. Cross River may have been a one party state because all the little political parties could not come together, but following the merger it is not right to describe us as a one party state.

APC is coming up. It has structure now on ground. You know it takes time to build. It is a gradual process. Power is a pendulum. Democracy is all about alternatives. If you leave power in one hand for too long, it is a recipe for decay and retrogression. So for us to move forward to enjoy rapid progress, we need another party to challenge the ruling party. We need a party that can effect a positive change and the APC is a good omen for the state and should be embraced. We need a vibrant opposition to check the government else there cannot be growth, progress and development.

How formidable is the APC in Cross River?

Good leaders are opportunity minded not problem minded. So it is now left for the opposition to close ranks and realise that when we all work together, we achieve success and progress. It does not help anybody to work at cross purposes. The only way we can succeed and take over to work together and we would do that to

achieve our aim.

How strong are you financially to face the PDP? When it comes to the issue of power politics, it is not a one man thing. It requires collective effort.

It requires all hands on deck. What we need is ideas, then you can partner with somebody that has the resources. Once a man of ideas is identified, all that is needed is for all to contribute towards installing that person. Winning elections depends on your strategy and also having a clear vision. No governor ever in this state has the kind of policy we need. One measure you use to assess our leader is their three top priorities. Yes, PDP have structures, but the APC is coming on board. Like I said it takes one to have a credible candidate who can connect with the people. When Obama came on he was not given any chance, but because Americans saw him as a man of ideas, clear vision and great ideas, he was voted. A good product always sells.

I know our people. We have instances in Nigeria where the people voted who they wanted not just because of money. The same will happen here. We intend to give the people of Cross River State three best gifts no governor has ever given.

How would you react to speculations that you are planted by the PDP to cause confusion in the APC? “That is where I come in.

With my experience as a successful player in the private sector, and having been in politics for some time now, I know There is no iota of truth in that.

The PDP cannot sponsor me. If you know my antecedents, they cannot.

A lot of my friends are in PDP. They have even tried to drag me in, but they know I won’t. There is one simple question I would ask PDP up till they cannot give me the answer. I ask them what the operational philosophy of the PDP is and none of them has been able to answer that question. What are their three top priorities, they don’t know. They cannot tell me. So how can I be sponsored by the PDP? The issue of party logo, if you notice, we have just rolled out one poster and it is not a campaign poster. It is just to sensitize. That came on board when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had not lifted the ban. Before we did that we sought legal advice. They said you want to sensitize, yes, but don’t put the party logo, because INEC had not lifted the ban on party politics. The real one is coming. Just hold your breath, you will see. We are going to launch out ferociously. Elections are in stages. We could not have put party logos because that would have violated INEC regulations.

Let us just sensitize the people on my interest. The real ones with party logo will come.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Not the answer

•Federal Government asking states to seek alternative sources of funds is cynical, to say the least

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OR over four decades of the oil boom, Nigeria swam in plenty; revelling in the rent of unearned oil wealth and like prodigals, frittering away most of the petro-dollar earnings. Nigerians lived large and licentiously, developing taste for all the best things in the world and neglecting to lay even the most basic foundations for her development and growth.

Agriculture, which was the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy before the discovery of oil in commercial quantity, was abandoned. Modern infrastructure, the fulcrum upon which great industrial assets are founded, was never developed. Thus, with the advent of the oil boom, Nigeria merely became the shopping complex of the world where exotic goods from all over the world were merchandised.

More pathetic is that even the huge crude oil and gas deposit did not galvanise the establishment of refining and petrochemical complexes such that the country would stand out today as a global hub for petroleum products. On the contrary, through her years of boom up till this moment, she has been flaring most of her gas deposit and exporting her crude regardless of the myriads of inherent byproducts. She also imports till today, all her petroleum products needs.

Perhaps no other country has been more profligate with her natural endowments.

Even when the international prices of petroleum products rose at exponential rates engendering heavy windfall of petro-dollars, the receipts were largely embezzled by a succession of highly corrupt and megalomaniac leaders. They neither invested in the sector nor expanded the base of the economy.

Today, just as the price of crude oil rose, in like manner it has started to fall in the last few months, moving from a little over $100 per barrel to about $80. As has been predicted, it will continue to plunge because there is a glut in the world crude oil market, as many more countries have discovered fossil fuel. Secondly, viable, cheaper and more efficient alternatives like shale oil have been developed, especially by the United States of America, which is now poised to push her enormous petroleum reserve into the global market.

The prospects are dim indeed for countries like Nigeria which rely on primitive and non-value-added shipment of crude oil. Has the chicken finally come home to roost? If that be the case, it may not yet be apparent to governments of the day, especially at the federal level; or shall we say there is nothing to suggest that people in positions of authority have been able to come to terms with the seemingly irreversible slide in oil earnings and the attendant recession.

To buttress this point, at a recent meeting of the National Council on Development Planning (NCDP), the Minister of National Planning, Dr. Abubakar Suleiman, could only admonish the delegates who were state planning commissioners to lead the process of finding alternative sources of funding in their various states.

According to Suleiman, while his ministry was collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria, “The states are also advised to develop their strategic plans as well as

the associated contingency plans to complement the effort of the Federal Government,” he said.

We aver that Nigeria’s government, especially the Federal Government is still locked in its old lethargic mindset. This situation the country is faced with calls for a complete rethink and restructure of the current fiscal regime. First, the Federal Government must convene an economic summit for the purpose of re-drawing the country’s fiscal map in the face of this new reality. Second, it must free up the huge share of the federation funds it has arrogated to itself so that it could be re-distributed to the states and local councils where they are sorely needed. In addition, the central government must be ready to cooperate with the states in relaxing the laws barring them from exploiting their mineral resources.

Suffice it to say that years of ineptitude have brought this looming calamity upon the country, but if the pains must be mitigated, governments at all levels must break out of the old mold and go back to the basics.

‘This situation the country is faced with calls for a complete rethink and restructure of the current fiscal regime. First, the Federal Government must convene an economic summit for the purpose of re-drawing the country’s fiscal map in the face of this new reality’

Underutilised cables •That $3bn submarine cables are ‘stranded’ in Nigeria despite the serious need for them leaves a sour taste in the mouth

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HE report that a mere 10 per cent of the total capacity of the $3billion (N480billion) undersea cables in Nigeria is currently being utilised exemplifies the paradox of the rich but poor country that Nigeria is. Ever a nation of paradoxes – whereas Nigeria presently has a surfeit of capacity from the several submarine cables that have berthed in the country since 2010, dearth of the matching investment in the infrastructure to carry the capacities from the cables at the shores to the hinterlands for lastmile connectivity has meant that the endusers do not presently enjoy them.

In the situation, the South Atlantic 3 (SAT-3) ($600 million); the Glo 1 cable ($800 million); MainOne Cable, ( $250

‘If Nigerians had high expectations in terms of being on the threshold of the broadband revolution after that record pooling of $3 billion investment in a little over three years, that hope must by now be fast turning into a mirage going by the rather modest pace of growth.

The current rates of internet and broadband penetration of 32.9 per cent and 6.1 per cent, respectively, obviously says a lot about the grounds the sector needs to cover’

million); West African Cable System (WACS) ( $650 million) and African Coast to Europe (ACE) ($700 million) – all of them with landing points on the nation’s coastline are said to be “stranded”.

If Nigerians had high expectations in terms of being on the threshold of the broadband revolution after that record pooling of $3 billion investment in a little over three years, that hope must by now be fast turning into a mirage going by the rather modest pace of growth. The current rates of internet and broadband penetration of 32.9 per cent and 6.1 per cent, respectively, obviously says a lot about the grounds the sector needs to cover.

The challenge, as it appears, seems as simple as driving the last-mile investment to bring broadband services to the doorsteps of every Nigerian and to ensure that the investments do not lie fallow for much longer. Of course, we have heard about the National Broadband Plan 2013-2018, driven by the Ministry of Communication Technology, “to achieve a five-fold broadband penetration in the country by the end of 2018”. So is the plan by the National Communications Commission (NCC) to licence seven Infrastructure Companies (InfraCos) each in the six geo-political zones, including Abuja – expected to “provide a national broadband network on a non-discriminatory, open access and price regulated basis to all service providers”.

Either of the policies is in order – but only to the extent that they deliver ex-

pected outcomes. If only on account of undelivered promises from similar ones in the past, Nigerians have since learnt to be tempered in their optimism from such initiatives.

For sure, those specific measures would appear positive indications of the Federal Government finally coming to terms with the need to fast-track the deployment of the infrastructure to grow that segment of the telecommunications market. However, given the central role reserved for the private sector, the concern is whether these initiatives can be said to have fully captured the complex factors behind the reluctance by lastline investors to bring in their money.

Notably, we are talking about the factors of the operating environment and the various policies known to inhibit business.

Beyond that however is also the issue of whether the government is prepared to do the needful in providing both the leadership and direction to forge ahead.

We are talking of a framework of partnership and/or collaboration as the case may be, between the government and the private sector to deepen the market and to optimise the potentials of the sector in the near term. The reason would seem obvious: unlike the telephony segment reputed for its mass appeal, the broadband segment, despite its proven potentials to catalyse the economy, would seem relatively more restricted to be left to the devices of market forces.

That is why government’s muscle is needed to push things through.

Media and Osun election tribunal

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SECTION of the media has not served the cause of truth and has rather shown unconscionable partisanship on the Osun State governorship election and its aftermath.

While it is generally agreed that media houses have their biases, their ultimate responsibility is to serve the cause of truth and promote democratic development in the land, irrespective of their bias.

It is disheartening however that some media organisations either out of laziness or mischief or both are fond of taking news report written

by Osun PDP media minders and slamming it on their front pages without crosschecking its veracity. This unprofessional conduct has caused confusion and portrayed the media concerned as liars and unreliable entities.

Not long ago, an appellate court in Ilorin, Kwara State made a ruling on jurisdiction in a long standing suit on the 2011 elections in Osun. This means the trial of the suit proper is set to begin. However, in a bizarre twist, PDP rewrote the judgement and claimed that all elected legislators, state and federal, have been sacked and should vacate their seats. Almost all newspapers reported it as such. A few tried to ‘balance’ it with the reaction of Osun APC. One would have thought that the newspapers have their reporters in court and would rather rely on their own report. When their reporters are not in court, they should have obtained the certified true copy of the judgement and refer it to their legal departments for interpretation and meaning, in case the editors cannot understand court judgements.

Now, the truth eventually came out that it was a preliminary ruling and to further put the media in shame, PDP has now withdrawn the original suit. How low can the media sink in the partisan quagmire?

Again, Osun PDP spun an infernal lie that 100,000 invalid votes had been discovered among Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s lot in the ballot and this would mean that Senator Iyiola Omisore would be sworn in on November 27.

The report also claimed that Aregbesola for this reason has asked for a rerun election. This evil report found its way into the website of AIT and the pages of Nigerian Tribune. Several internet rodents latched it and feasted on it with frenzy. The election petition tribunal was so incensed that it warned of dire consequences if such false reports were to appear in the media again.

AIT pulled down the report and apologised on the same website. Nigerian Tribune, in its usual characteristics, is yet to make any amends. It is really instructive what has now become of the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The questions we should be asking ourselves are: one, how much could PDP have paid that is worth the integrity of a newspaper? Secondly, why would media organisations deliberately inflict such pain on its audience that look up to it for the promotion of truth and justice?

It is my sincere hope that media organisations will protect their name and integrity from being sullied as a result of Osun PDP’s fruitless desperation.

• Mike Ogundele, Osogbo, Osun State

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Adekunle Ade-Adeleye •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: That Nigeria’s economy, by virtue of its recent rebased Gross Domestic Product, is the biggest in Africa yet governments across all levels have been finding it extremely difficult to meet their fiscal obligations due to cash crunch, remains one of the internal contradictions that characterise the country’s 100 years’ existence. In Nigeria, it is the more you look, the less you see!

Except the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and her team, every Nigerian knows that Nigeria is broke.

The argument by Okonjo Iweala that “Nigeria, as country, has quite enough assets...” is only meant to distort empirical facts. To be broke, in its simplest term, means to be lacking in money. The concept of liquidation as applicable to banks if juxtaposed with the minister’s argument will expose her double standard. For example, banks are liquidated on account of bankruptcy not necessarily because they do not have enough assets but simply because they do not have enough cash to continue carrying

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Big economy, broke nation on in their businesses. As a matter of fact, a liquidated banker’s assets are usually mobilised to set off its debts. So, it is inconsequential that the country has “enough assets” as the minister would insist. Until those assets (assuming they exist) are “mobilised”, the bleeding truth is that Nigeria is currently bankrupt, simplicita!

Indices of a broke nation have continue to stare us in the face. The most evident is the continuous dwindling of the revenue allocation accruing to states and non disbursement of same to states as when due. As a result, most states have resulted to other excruciating means in order to augment the dwindling allocation. Today, many states owe their workers running into months. And where

they could not endure any longer, they resulted to borrowing in the money market through bond’s instrumentality. Of course, the implication of this is that States are mortgaging the future of their citizens. Yet we have a “fat” economy which effects are yet to translate to meaningful impacts on the lives of Nigerian masses.

How does the Finance Minister explain the recent disturbing revelation by the Niger State government of its inability to pay the debt of N294 million it owed the National Examination Council (NECO) was responsible for the non release of the 2013/2014 examination results of candidates from the state? The state government was unmistaken in its statement that this worrisome scenar-

No fourth term for Chukwumerije IR: One of the tension-soaked issues in the political landscape of Abia North Senatorial District today is Senator Uche Chukwumerije’s ‘ungentlemanly’ ambition to return to the Senate, after 12 years in the saddle. But the shock he received from the just concluded ward delegates’ congress is indicative of the people’s poise to take their destiny in their hands.

His claim that Oha-Na-Eze Ndigbo persuaded him to go back for the fourth tenure (making it 16 years) is not only sickening and but also makes a caricature of the republican spirit of Abia North constituency. In fact, he insulted the psyche of Ndigbo by the provocative impression that there is a desert of personalities in Igboland, which means: No Chukwumerije, No Ndigbo! Unfortunately, it is this unrepentant sit-tight mentality that has stymied our country to the laughable level of giant toddler and led to the increasing slide of our hard-won democracy into

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gerontocracy.

With his co-travellers in the selfserving desperation, they shut down the activities which they were elected for and arm-twisted the national leadership of the PDP just to extract illusive automatic tickets for themselves. What an ironic twist!

I therefore urge him to back out from the untamed ambition that is threatening what remained of his credibility. His mantra of ‘bumper harvest’ is a smokescreen intended to create a false sense of hope, and elicit the usual ‘carry go’ hysteria of uninformed masses. Certainly, that hackneyed sing-song is already out of fashion. Though there is always a thin-line between morbid ambition and sugar-coated sycophancy, yet when the chips are down, the people will stand behind their leaders.

Besides, I make bold to say that he should allow the younger generation to grow. He should groom the youngsters. We expect him to

retire honourably and take up mentoring as a hobby, since his stupendous wealth is enough for his family’s upkeep. In civilized countries, people like him dedicate their remaining days on earth to publish their memoirs for the benefit of future leaders. And at his nearly 76 years of age, he should metamorphose from a politician to a statesman.

More importantly, and from the points of morality and conscience, he should give chance to other remaining four LGAs in Abia North to produce the next Senator. If Senator Ike Nwachukwu whom he succeeded had remained in the position on the mere argument of ‘preserving institutional memory’, he wouldn’t have been in the Senate today. Let him therefore spare himself of people’s revolt.

•C. Jasper Uche Chairman, Umunneochi LGA, Abia State.

io was caused by the inadequate cash flow from the Federation Account. Also, in recent times, state commissioners for finance have had to storm out of meetings with the federal government in anger as a result of the inability of Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) to release their monthly allocations.

Even the federal government, recently, have had to go borrowing from foreign countries and bodies in order to carry out her fiscal responsibility. The most recent was the $1 billion external loan approval sought and received by the federal government from

the parliament to procure arms to fight the Boko Haram. It is abundantly clear from the foregoing that Nigerians do not need soothsayers or economists to tell them that the country is not only broke but may also not have the socalled “enough assets” to revive its much taunted N80.22tn economy contrary to the Finance Minister’s claim.

Largely responsible for the doldrums is corruption and mismanagement of resources. And until these maladies are checked, the country will continue to witness cash crunch that may eventually drive it to the state of perpetual bankruptcy, notwithstanding the so-called big economy status, and the sooner the minister and her employers come to the realisation of this notorious fact, the better for the country!

•Barrister Okoro Gabriel, Ebonyi State.

Nigeria needs a change of guard

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IR: For the past 15 years or thereabout, Nigeria has been under the rule of a particular set of people who have been doing their best to develop the country yet our woes as a Third World country subsist. Our leaders have made tremendous efforts and taken steps to move the nation forward but evidently things have not worked out the way we expected.

We have seen the best this leadership can do especially in the political sphere, in the economic sector and in the area of security, health, education, basic infrastructure. We have seen how our leaders continue to feed fat and live ostentatiously on our commonwealth; amidst the abundance of human capital and mineral resources, majority still wallow in poverty while countries with lesser endowments thrive better than us.

This is where the leadership has led us. One would say, Nigeria is a largely a heterogeneous country with many tongues, ideas and interests, and this makes the country literally ungovernable. Well, who is to blame for that?

There are questions about follow-

er-ship too. It is often said that a society gets the kind of leadership it deserves? Does that mean we are doomed forever as follower-ship has its flaws too?

But whether the future is bright or not, we really need a re-orientation, a renaissance. We need to change our direction, our reasoning, our ways, our understanding, our drive, our perception and the like. We need a change of guard. We have been under a particular line of thought for a while now, let’s try another hand, we might just be in for a change we yearn for.

In plain terms, a political party has led us since our return to Democracy 15 years ago; it is obvious continuity is not what we need now.

While all parties and politicians are pretty much the same old wine in new bottles, we should try out another ideology, another political party and see where that leads us in the next few years as we further look for ways to remove Nigeria from the throes of underdevelopment and oppression.

•Farotimi Dolapo University of Ibadan.

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

COMMENTS

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F all the possible expressive metaphors, why did Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd) go for the gun? It would appear that the former military ruler and All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential hopeful is still in love with the weapon nearly 30 years after his military government was toppled and after three futile electoral attempts to be president. He blurred the fundamental distinction between the gun and the vote at a rally in Kaduna where Nasir El-Rufai, a former minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), formally unveiled his governorship aspiration.

Interestingly, Buhari reportedly said to the crowd: “Your card is your gun against incompetence in government and deception.” He added: “We have suffered enough. You know what it takes to repair Nigeria, especially as regards infrastructure, security and employment. Let us get the infrastructure working; let’s get security materially, physically and morally.”

Considering that his party’s symbol is a broom, it may have been more fitting, and by far less jolting, if Buhari had stuck to the familiar image of sweeping as a means of removing the unwanted. It is possible to interpret his language of violence as a reflection of the depth of his political frustration, which is understandable in the context of the observable continuing ruin of the country by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). There is no doubt that the picture of the gun, perhaps more than any other euphemistic expression, drives the point home not only about the need for direct action but also the necessity for a destruction of the status quo.

The suggestion of blood and death, in the framework of social resistance, was similarly communicated by Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi of the APC at another rally in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, where Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed publicly announced his pursuit of re-election. In an

‘There is no doubt that the country is at a historical juncture of colossal consequence. It is a ripe moment for a full and far-reaching performance by the people, who will need to reclaim their sovereignty by seizing the stage. It remains to be seen whether they would be guided

by Buhari’s image of the gun, or Amaechi’s be-ready-for-death presentation, or Tinubu’s picture of a thorough sweep’

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HE media space has been dominated in recent times by comments from all shades of opinion regarding the desirability or otherwise of having a same-faith ticket by the leading opposition party, All Progressives Congress (APC) at the forthcoming general election.

Though the leadership of the APC has not formally indicated what the joint ticket would look like, comments that have been generated so far can best be seen as a calculated and orchestrated blackmail strategy of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in its attempt to feed Nigerians with the dangerous religious opium with regards to the deep-seated religious differences that exists in the country.

Though, differences exist, we live in a clime where an issue that should ordinarily be restricted to the personal preference of the individual is now being elevated to national/ official prominence.

Looking through the comments also, anyone who is conversant with the prevailing political permutations in the country would readily agree that it is self-serving as they (the comments) are borne out more of pure mischief or to serve personal interests of those espousing the need to ensure religious balance the choice of personalities that would be given the ticket.

It, however, gladdens my heart that the APC has become the viable alternative to the rudderless Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the voting populace is taking more than a passing interest in what is going on in the APC. The debate actually started with speculations in some quarters suggesting that the APC has made up its mind to field a Muhammadu Buhari/Bola Ahmed Tinubu ticket to challenge the incumbent government of Goodluck Jonathan next year.

I mean those who have concluded that the ticket would not do the country any good is for reasons best known to them playing down the quality of the pair, just as they have sidetracked successful historical precedence in their warped analysis.

What they only talk about is the fact that the ticket, if eventually it comes on board, will spell doom for the country owing to the current elite-induced mistrust that is currently

‘The challenges that confront us all in this country today are acute deficiencies in security, employment, power generation and infrastructure among many others. All of these indices of poverty and underdevelopment recognize neither ethnic nor religious boundaries. There are as much poor, hungry, homeless and hopeless Muslims as there are Christians’

Buhari, Amaechi and people power impassioned speech, Amaechi said: “I am very impressed by the number of persons that I have seen here today. What you must do is to stop the PDP from rigging.” He continued: “When you vote, do not go home at all. They will bring soldiers and police, remain there. If they want to kill us, let them kill us. If you go home, you will hear a different result.

Stay there and make sure nobody rigs you out.”

This striking convergence of thoughts, particularly the frightening verbalisation of violence, mirrors the decay and the defiance in the country’s political arena. Against this background, next year’s general elections promise to be, in a manner of speaking, a battle to the death for the country’s soul. It may be considered reassuring that the situation is not without instances of non-violent combativeness. APC leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu said at Ahmed’s event: “The best thing to do is to sweep them away through broom revolution.” Significantly, his choice of words, even with the apparent lexical ambiguity, plays down blood and guts.

It is a tribute to the essential concept of political sovereignty that, by clear implication, the APC’s approach is to rouse people power. It is a positive and creditable corporate stance, which has an excellent potential for achieving the desired regime change. However, the party will need to get its act together in order to surmount the objective challenges of organising for power and change, especially given the crippling socio-economic conditions that have blunted political consciousness across the country, resulting in an unbelievable atrophy of the exercise of political sovereignty.

In other words, the people seem to have lost their voice, if

not their votes.

To save the sinking ship, words, whether hot or cold, will never be enough. How well the campaigners for change can demonstrate difference and distinction will likely be an indispensable factor in awakening the people. Sadly, it is still possible to argue, as various observers have done, that the opposition is yet to acquire a distinctive and unimpeachable stamp of progressivism.

It would amount to a gross failure of discernment to trivialise the capacity of the Goodluck Jonathan administration for self-perpetuation. Indeed, Jonathan’s stunning choreographic approach to the 2015 presidential election may qualify as arguably the most systematically planned and methodically controlled pursuit of power in the country’s history of democratic politics, which should not necessarily be seen in constructive terms. Consider his unprecedented exclusive endorsement for re-election by the PDP state governors, Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, which effectively foreclosed the conventional presidential primary to choose a candidate. Add to this picture the reinforcing activities of the myriad Jonathan support groups practically begging him to be the PDP presidential candidate in the coming election.

In a manner that may have been thought impossible based on reason, the desperadoes have not only redefined the noble concept of “transformational government”; they have also gone to the ridiculous extent of labelling the Jonathan administration as an exemplary case in point. It is instructive to note that Jonathan has continued to display a reptilian sneakiness, and perhaps the ultimate joke concerning his open concealment of his re-election ambition must be his show at his party’s September 20 “Southwest sensitisation rally.” In his speech on the occasion, he referred to the various endorsements and introduced a calculated complication. He said: “I also have the right of refusal and I thank the party for giving me the opportunity.”

Whoever thought he might exercise this “right of refusal” must be living on another planet. So, news that he had set up a Presidential Declaration Committee to work towards a November date when he would formally declare his presidential ambition was unsurprising. When he eventually pronounces his hunger for power, or finally puts his powerhungry scheming beyond question, the countdown to an unforgettable power struggle would begin in earnest.

There is no doubt that the country is at a historical juncture of colossal consequence. It is a ripe moment for a full and far-reaching performance by the people, who will need to reclaim their sovereignty by seizing the stage. It remains to be seen whether they would be guided by Buhari’s image of the gun, or Amaechi’s be-ready-for-death presentation, or Tinubu’s picture of a thorough sweep.

Still on same-faith presidential ticket

By Lateef Raji being sown between the nation’s dominant faiths of Islam and Christianity.

To those opposed to the Buhari/Tinubu ticket, the nation will burn as it would have shut out the adherents of Christian faith from the power loop at the centre, a situation they see as injurious to the nation’s fragile security.

As stated earlier, the antecedents and the calibre of the eminent citizens involved must be considered before jumping onto the bandwagon of opposition to the ‘proposal’.

Let me start by analyzing the personality of Buhari, who has had the misfortune of being profiled as a religious bigot.

The Daura-born retired general is known to be a fair-minded individual who is known to treat non-adherents of Islamic faith compassionately. Most of his domestic aides are said to be Christians whom he had never prevented from practicing their faith despite being a staunch Muslim.

It was told that Buhari as a general was approached by some Muslim adherents to grant Friday as work-free as did Christians faithful but turned down their request after he asked them to point to a verse in the Quran or the Hadith that enjoins Muslims not to work on Fridays. He told them that the Bible enjoined Christians not to work on Sundays.

The vintage Buhari turned down the request when a cogent response was not forthcoming from his fellow Muslims.

Buhari’s senses of probity and accountability in public service are too well documented for me to do a recall, but one will not fail to see the austere lifestyle of a former head of state, former petroleum minister, former military administrator and former chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF).

On the part of Tinubu, one will no doubt forget his sense of financial wizardry. In fact, it won’t be out of place to describe him as the architect of modern Lagos who laid the foundation, which his successor and protégé, Babatunde Raji Fashola is building upon.

It is to Tinubu’s credit that the status of Lagos moved from being a dirty backward mega-slum to that of a thriving metropolis. When Tinubu came on board as the third elected chief executive of the state in 1999, the total internally generated revenue of the state was a meagre N600 million, and it is on record that before he left office, the internally generated revenue had peaked at over N8 billion monthly.

With the quantum leap in the financial base came massive investment in economic infrastructure that is currently servicing the growth and development of the state, a feat that has been attested to by various international bodies.

Aside from the personalities of the two, it is on record that the near-impossible task of forging the viable opposition that the APC has eventually turned out to be due largely to the efforts of these two gentlemen.

For Tinubu, his ability to turn defeat into success is legendary. When the PDP won all but one of the six states in the South-west, he soon ensured that he reversed the trend by regaining the states back except for Ondo.

For the two, an achievement that was never seen in the history of the country was brought to bear with the coming into being of the APC, a feat many thought was unattainable. To me, whoever works must profit from his labour, so it won’t be out of place for the two to pick the tickets of the party.

Talking about precedence, it is on record that in the Southwest, we have had occasions when the governors and their deputies belong to the same faith without anyone raising eye brow. Two examples readily come to mind. In the Second Republic, both Lateef Jakande and his deputy, Rafiu Jafojo were Muslims, yet the Christians did not pray that heaven should fall.

Recently in Osun State, the immediate past administration was dominated by Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Erelu Olusola Obada both Christians and to the Muslims, there were no qualms.

The challenges that confront us all in this country today are acute deficiencies in security, employment, power generation and infrastructure among many others. All of these indices of poverty and underdevelopment recognize neither ethnic nor religious boundaries. There are as much poor, hungry, homeless and hopeless Muslims as there are Christians.

It is also true that the pockets of developmental efforts that we are seeing in some parts of the country, the roads, schools; the hospitals, etc. did not discriminate among beneficiaries.

Those that are propagating the divisive schemes are mainly individuals seeking direct individual benefits for playing the religious card. If this is not so, let them come and tell us what good the combination of Jonathan and Sambo – one Christian and the other one Muslim – two uninspiring pretenders, has done us as Christians and Muslims and most importantly as Nigerians over the past years.

What Nigerians crave for is leaders with proven capability and requisite experience to lead the country out of the morass it had been dragged to by an opportunistic cadre of decadent leadership.

What should dominate our political conversation should be what the parties and their candidates are bringing to the table in terms of records of achievements and programme of action that would rescue the country from the dangerous precipice that it is currently heading.

• Raji is the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Information & Strategy.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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COMMENTS

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T is increasingly getting clearer that democracy on these shores is in very dire straits. As one political event comes and goes, indications are that our politicians have neither learnt any lessons nor are they prepared to learn any in their dispositions and attitudes to the rules of the game. This may seem a damning assertion but it has become a sad reality of the politics of this country.

Each time such infractions occur, our political actors are quick to rationalize them on the dubious grounds that we are still in the learning process. We may continue this learning process ad infinitum if conscious efforts are not made by both the political parties and politicians to guarantee the participation of the ordinary people in the electoral process.

Before now, the greatest challenge has been how to guarantee free and fair elections by eliminating those unwholesome practices that mar our electoral process. We had in the past been treated with rigging, falsification and outright writing of election results in hotel rooms and sundry hidden places. The brazen subversion of the electoral process had been such that the electorate had started loosing confidence in it. It took copious assurances from the government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for some modicum of confidence to be restored as elections began to reflect the collective will of the people as expressed in the ballot box.

But even as this little progress can be admitted, increasing signals point to the direction that politicians are relapsing to their decadent political practices through their disregard to extant rules and regulations. And if care is not taken, the little gains so far recorded by way

‘The PDP must purge itself of this ruinous notion that it will continue to disregard the sensibilities of its members at the grassroots without dire repercussions. It is no longer business as usual now there is a strong opposition party’

Emeka OMEIHE 08112662675 email: EmekaOmeihe@yahoo.com

PDP ward congresses of the electorate having their way in electoral matters, may be completely wiped off.

Or, how else do we explain the embarrassment that was the outcome of the ward congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP conducted last weekend? Reports emanating from a congress that was meant to elect three ad-hoc delegates were a huge embarrassment to all lovers of democracy. From Rivers to Cross River, Imo to Benue states, the outcome was a litany of woes as voting materials were hijacked by politicians and results written without any input from party members who had thronged their various wards to elect their delegates. Ever since, the party has been inundated with complaints as key leaders and stakeholders have been very vocal in passing a damning verdict on the outcome of that congress.

A member of the Board of Trustees BOT of the party from Akwa Ibom State, Chief Donald Etiebet came out strongly to lampoon the electoral panel sent to the state and the outcome of that congress. Hear him: “I want to tell you that I am not satisfied with the conduct of the ward congress in the state on Saturday. It was a farce and there was no congress conducted in the state”.

He accused the chairman of the PDP electoral committee of bias.

The views expressed by Etiebet mirror very vividly the outcome of that congress. It is not surprising that since then, the PDP national secretariat has been inundated with complaints from aggrieved members from across the country. Some of the complainants want the con-

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is a good man.

Look at his gentle mien and unassuming carriage in spite of being the President of the most populous black nation on planet earth. Look at how he is transforming Nigeria; the news media; the tabloids, tubes and online publications are awash with the benevolent achievements of the President. Look at the roads, the airports, railways, power sector to name but a few. Forget about the facts that there are no physical evidence on the ground; just tune to the Nigerian Television Authorities (NTA) and paid adverts in other media houses. Recall the 2011 General Elections, the President had an overwhelming majority across the geopolitical zone because the Nigerian people love him as a good man. Even though the baboons and the dogs were soaked in blood when the result was out, the election was relatively free and fair and the President genuinely won that election fair and square.

His transformation programme commenced shortly after he was sworn. First, he removed the controversial subsidy on petroleum products and hiked fuel prices as a reward to the people and kerosene became out of the reach of ordinary Nigerians. When Nigerians went to the street in protest, the security forces and police fired live ammunition and killed scores of people. The President would rather hurt the poor masses than take on the corrupt officials responsible for the failure of the subsidy regime. It was easier and better for the government to make the poor masses bear the burden and subsidize the ineptitude of government officials and rogue elements in the petroleum industry. Everybody can attest to the fact that the President is a good man.

Look at those officials fingered for grafts of monumental proportions in his cabinet; aviation, petroleum and the interior. Rather than bring them to book, the President rose stoutly to proselyte in their defence giving us presidential distinction between official corruption and stealing.

Again, look at the mega seizure of $9 million and $5 million respectively by the South African government on a botched arms deal to tackle insecurity and the insurgency in the North-east. Driven by patriotism, the President main-

‘Those who think he is not a good leader or under- performing should not forget that Nigerians have not chosen a good or performing leader yet. When we make up our mind, we can do it and get the leader that will see himself as commander-inchief and take bold and courageous decisions. Good men do not make history, courageous people do’

gresses cancelled and a repeat conducted. But the PDP national chairman, Adamu Mu’azu was reported to have said that the complaints were normal in such political activities. According to him, such complaints arise as politicians positioned themselves to take advantage and undo others. He would want to attribute these to rivalry among politicians.

Mu’azu’s views appear an oversimplification of the matter. He could also be accused of trivializing the very serious infractions that marred those congresses. It is not a matter of politicians positioning themselves to take advantage. It is not just a matter of rivalry among politicians. They go far beyond these and are at the very heart of the real essence of democracy.

Complainants are saying that there were no congresses in any of those states or where there were, they did not conform to the rules of free and fair conduct. They are angry that no voting took place at all in many of the wards and that election results were written in hidden places and submitted as the verdict of party members. They are piqued that ordinary party members were denied participation at that rung of party organization where politicians should have demonstrated their popularity by allowing the rules of the game to run their full course.

Politicians who are at home with their people have no business subverting such rudimentary engagements as the ward congresses of their parties. They ought to have submitted themselves to the rules of that game. That

is the real issue here.

Moreover, if ward congresses and party primaries which are internal affairs of political parties are that rancorous, can those thrown up from that fraudulent process be trusted to play by the rules of free and fair elections? That is the poser that has been elevated to the front burner by the outcome of that congress. Ironically also, it is the same PDP government that is being looked upon to superintend over the conduct of free and fair elections. The minimum expectation given the foregoing was for that party to position itself as a shinning example in internal democracy. Sadly, this basic expectation was only observed in its breach during that ward congress. It is sad that we are at this point once again. Given events of our recent past culminating in the implosion in that party, the minimum expectation was that the party should have learnt from some of its mistakes by now. One of the issues which its members who defected to the All Progressives Congress APC had against the party hinged on its scant regard for internal democracy. And with the coming on board of the APC, it had been the hope of all lovers of democracy to see the PDP a reformed party.

That has failed to happen as the ward congresses have vividly shown. Even before the formation of the APC, most of those who left the party cited the absence of internal democracy as their main grouse. Many of them have even had to go back to the party when their initial grouse had not been addressed. At the heart of all this, is the obnoxious notion that the party is the surest route to political ascendancy.

The PDP must purge itself of this ruinous notion that it will continue to disregard the sensibilities of its members at the grassroots without dire repercussions. It is no longer business as usual now there is a strong opposition party. But it is a matter of choice for that party.

The main opposition is there to take advantage of this lapse. But the activities of one of its governors Rochas Okorocha may turn out a negation of this optimism. Okorocha is reputed to be running for the presidency under the APC. Till now, no person has indicated interest to run for his current seat in his party and you dare not. The impression is that he reserves that position for himself should presidential ticket elude him. If and when this happens, we would be left with the same issue.

The president is a good man

By Mike Kebonkwu tained golden silence while the South African authorities found it exciting to bathe the nation in the murky water of corruption in the market square. Only his garrulous and loquacious Special Assistants (SAs) took the air waves to insult the intelligence of the people and expose their puerile logic.

The President is a good man; look at those felons of yesterday and political fugitives who even disguised as women to escape arrest in UK. He not only pardoned them, he also honoured them with Nigeria’s National Merit award. Can you beat that? He is all over the churches and recently he declared for the Anglicans and bagged the highest ecclesiastical Anglican award, the first of its kind. His detractors and political enemies want him to be like a Pharaoh or a General. As a good man he even forgot that he is the Commander-in-Chief and indeed, that all the Generals are supposed to be under him.

His detractors wanted him to visit Chibok after the abduction and kidnapping of over 200 school girls by the Boko Haram. The President would rather act the statesman that he is; the imperial majesty. It is not statesmanlike for a ruler to visit indigent people struck by misfortune. It is the bereaved that should rather pay homage to their king in the moment of calamity. Critics and opposition who would not understand keep pestering the Chief Executive of Nigeria to perform.

The sins of the President’s traducers and opposition are legion. They want him to be a performing President. They want him to take charge and be in control and make Nigeria take its rightful place among the comity of nations.

The President is a good man that is why people fight for him in all things. Look at those perceived irritant governors who had the audacity to stand to his authority, ordinary police commissioners fought for him and caged the lion in them while the state House of Assembly members sack the others as many more sit on edge. His Excellency, President Goodluck Jonathan is a good man. This is not because he has goodluck attached to his name.

As if that was not enough, he had no shoes when he was growing up which also showed a quintessential Nigerian grassroots man.

He is an academic doctor of a fine breed by dint of hard work. I understand he was even a teacher in a College of Education somewhere in Rivers State; I am not sure now.

He is soft-spoken and an introvert.

He was loyal to his principals and political masters and subservient to a fault. When he was the Deputy Governor in Bayelsa State, he was seen but rarely heard until his boss caught a tiger by the tail, and was impeached. As a good man, he was sworn in as the substantive governor of Bayelsa State. Mother luck shone on him again when former President Obasanjo handpicked him to be President Yar’Adua’s

running mate. When the Nigerian power cabal tried to scheme him out of the power equation, he watched the bizarre drama go into melodramatic fever pitch.

Nigerians rose up in their numbers and fought for him, and the doctrine of necessity was invoked which brought him in as President of the Federal Republic. This broke the broke the jinx of monopoly of power by the so-called majority ethnic groups and gave hope that any Nigerian can aspire to the highest office in the land.

This was how the reluctant good man became President. He has all the attributes of a gentleman notwithstanding his remote humble background and upbringing. When the President served out the tenure of his late former boss, some political hawks wanted to fence him off from further serving Nigeria because of mere gentleman’s agreement his political platform had which he found convenient to ignore, breach, disregard and broke. Nigerians should not leave the adoption and endorsement of the President as the only qualified candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the card carrying members and the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) only. Those who think he is not a good leader or under- performing should not forget that Nigerians have not chosen a good or performing leader yet. When we make up our mind, we can do it and get the leader that will see himself as commander-in-chief and take bold and courageous decisions. Good men do not make history, courageous people do. Good men do not bring about historical change in the life of a nation but brave men do. True, visible physical transformation will only come from a brave and courageous leadership not from a good man. Look around the world today; the people bring about the change they want: Burkina Faso, Egypt, Indonesia and even the just concluded Mid-term Elections in the United States of America where the Republicans now hold sway in both houses. Rise up and bring about the change you want; The President is a good man.

•Kebonkwu Esq. writes from Abuja

‘’The President is a good man; look at those felons of yesterday and political fugitives who even disguised as women to escape arrest in UK. He not only pardoned them, he also honoured them with Nigeria’s National Merit award.

Can you beat that?’

25

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

CEO

JOBS

New vistas for cocoa sub-sector - P. 35 News Briefing SON, NAFDAC, others to sign MoU on fake products ALL is set for three regulatory bodies to sign a Memorandum of Understainding(MoU) with the Anti- Counterfeiting Collaboration (ACC), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), its Chairman Enforcement Committee, Tony Oghoghorie has said.

–Page 26

TUC blames misapplication of funds THE Trade Union Congress has blamed misapplication of funds for the pervasive corruption in the country.

–Page 26

Govt sets 2015 date for Coal power plant operation FEDERAL government has set next year as the take-off date for a coal powered electricity generation. This is on the heels of incessant destruction of pipelines by vandals in most parts of the country.

–Page 31

Sovereign Wealth Funds are managed conservatively.

They don’t borrow money the way banks do, so you can’t compare this business to banking business. This business does not expose itself to that kind of risk. It is not the same thing as private equity •Managing Director/CEO, NSI A, Uche Orji

‘Most SME operators not competent’ - P. 37

Stock Exchange expels brokers T for shares fraud HE council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has revoked the dealing licence and expelled some stockbroking firms for fraudulent sales of shares of their clients.

The firms allegedly sold the shares of their clients without authorisation, a reference to common shares fraud where stockbrokers sell clients’ shares to take advantage of market prices or buoy their liquidity.

In a circular issued to all stockbroking firms last week, which was obtained by The Nation, the NSE indicated that two stockbroking firms were delisted from the membership list at the stock market and their directors and employees embargoed from working in any other stockbroking firm without the approval of the Exchange.

According to the notice, the

By Taofik Salako

two firms- Lakesworth Investment & Securities Limited and Gosord Securities Limited, were investigated and indicted for unauthorised sales of investors’ shares.

The multiple fraudulent transactions were in breach of the Article 59, section five of the Rules and Regulations Governing Dealing Members of the Exchange, the charter-like code and mode of operations that regulate stockbrokers at the Exchange.

With the revocation of their licences and expulsion from the market, no dealing members must engage in any type of activity with the firms. Besides, Article 144, subsection C makes it man-

datory for any stockbroking firm that may want to employ any of the former employees, directors and executives of the expelled firms to seek clearance from the Exchange.

According to the provision under the “Specific Actions Requiring Prior Consent of the Exchange,” a dealing member shall not be allowed to do any of the following without the prior written consent of the Exchange including employing any of the directors, authorised clerks or other persons including principal officers such as the chief executive officer, chief finance officer, chief compliance officer and chief risk officer, who have been indicted by the Exchange or the Securi-

ties and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Others that required clearance from the Exchange before employment included any person expelled, as an authorised clerk or its equivalent, from any other exchange; any person refused admission as a member of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers or any person expelled from its membership; any person expelled as a member of any professional association or institute and any person who is insolvent or has been convicted of theft, fraud, forgery, or any other crime involving dishonesty.

A source told The Nation that the Exchange has been working to address the root causes of frauds among stockbroking firms. The source said inactive and

illiquid stockbroking firms are prone to frauds, referring to a recent move by the Exchange to amend its rules to pave way for delisting of inactive stockbroking firms.

The draft amendment to the rules and regulations governing dealing member is titled ‘revocation of inactive dealing member firms’ licences and it has already passed the initial rule-making processes.

The Nation’s check indicated that the NSE has marked 81 out of the 322 stockbroking firms on its dealing members’ list as inactive. According to the amendment, where a dealing member is inactive for a period of six consecutive months, the Exchange shall revoke the licence of the dealing member.

A dealing member must not under no circumstances cease to carry out its day to day business activities for, which it was licensed to operate without any reasonable cause.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil Cocoa

-$117.4/barrel -$2,686.35/metric ton

Coffee

- ¢132.70/pound

Cotton

- ¢95.17pound

Gold

-$1,396.9/troy

Sugar

-$163/lb RATES

Inflation

-8.2%

Treasury Bills-10.58%(91d)

• From left: Director, Commercial Services Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dabney Shall-Holma; Director-General, NIMASA, Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi; Executive Secretary, NSC, Hassan Bello and Executive Director, Maritime Labour, NIMASA, Callistus Obi, when management of the Shippers’ Council paid a courtesy visit to NIMASA in Lagos.

Maximum lending -30% Prime lending

-15.87%

Savings rate

-3%

91-day NTB

-15%

Time Deposit

-5.49%

MPR

-12%

Foreign Reserve

$39.6b

FOREX CFA

-0.2958

EUR

-206.9

£

-242.1

$

-156

¥

-1.9179

SDR

-238

RIYAL

-40.472

Cabotage fund hits N36b as NISA clears NIMASA

T

HE Nigerian Ship Owners Association (NISA) has absolved the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) of being responsible for inability to access to Cabotage Fund by ship owners. The fund as at end of September stood at N36 billion.

The President of NISA, Capt. Dada Labinjo told The Nation that the fund is currently N36 billion, but noted that contrary to reports that NIMASA has been responsible for not allowing ship owners to access the fund as provided in the Cabotage Act, the agency is only a custodian of the fund while directive for its disbursement

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

as loans to ship owners resides with the Federal Government.

There have been reports about ship owners that suffer dearth of funds to maintain their vessels but were unable to access the fund, which they are statutorily entitled to .

The Cabotage law, which is the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act, was passed into law in 2003 and among the provisions in the Act is the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), which is pooled from the two per cent deductions from all contracts awarded under the Cabotage regime. The essence of the

Fund is to empower indigenous ship owners to be active in maritime sector by acquiring ships that have adequate tonnage to participate in coastal and inland trade and perhaps, with time, take over from foreigners currently dominate the coastal and deep sea shipping activities.

However, 11 years after the law was passed the impact of the CVFF has not been felt either in terms of loans to ship owners or by increasing dominance of the coastal shipping by indigenous ship owners, stakeholders said.

Also Labinjo debunked reports that 80 per cent of ships owned by indigenous players are substandard. He said:

“I will never agree with that position. I don’t agree with it not because I’m saying that our ships are perfect. Substandard is not a good comment. Every ship is owned by the nation where it is registered. Every ship is owned by the flag it bears, which is the country. That is why they say flag your ship.

“Yes I’m the beneficial owner of the ship but it is the country that owns it because in times of crisis, the country will convert it like it happened during the Falkland crisis, when Queen Elizabeth 2 (ship) was converted for military use. So that is why countries like to have their own ships in their own register because in times of

emergency and crisis you cannot leave Nigerian ships to call Cameroonian ships to come and help you, they will not answer you. But you can commandeer that of Captain Labinjo or that of any Nigerian.

“That is the reason the country owns the ships. I’m not saying our ships are the best in the world. I’ve been to India, Indonesia and Singapore, among other countries and I have seen the way things are there. What I know is that we have a bad habit in Nigeria and that is maintenance issue.

No doubt about it, but I’m assuring you and everybody that as the President of NISA, we will overcome that challenge.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

26

BUSINESS NEWS Dangote vows to make cement cheapest materials • Unveils 32. 5 cement for plastering

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•Group Managing Director, Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Devakumar VG Edwin (3 rd left), others from left: Special Assistant to the Group Managing Director, Dangote Cement, Hajia Fatima Dangote; Honourary Adviser to the President/Chief Executive, Joseph Makoju and Special Assistant to the President & Chief Executive, Dangote Group, Hajia Halima Dangote at the unveiling of Dangote 32.5 & 3x Cement in Lagos.

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE.

SON, NAFDAC, others to sign MoU on fake products A LL is set for three regulatory bodies to sign a Memorandum of Understainding(MoU) with the Anti- Counterfeiting Collaboration (ACC), a nongovernmental organisation (NGO), its Chairman Enforcement Committee, Tony Oghoghorie has said.

The bodies are Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Foods Drugs and Law Enforcement Agency (NAFDAC) and the Consumer Protection Council (CPC).

Speaking on the sideline of the 6th Anti-Counterfeiting Collaboration (ACC) and Inter TradeMark Association (IITA) Policy Roundtable in Lagos, Oghogborie said the organisation has presented the draft of the MoU that would be signed by the parties concerned soon.

He said through the MoU,

By AkinolaAjibade

workers from the three regulatory agencies would be train on how to tackle fake drugs and unwholesome foods in the country.

He said: “As the chairman of the regulatory and enforcement committee of Anti- Counterfieiting collaboration, I’m leading and putting together a draft of MoU on counterfieited products. We want many regulatory bodies that are interested in parrtnering with us in order to reduce incidence of fake products in Nigeria.

“We are starting with three regulatory bodies namely NAFDAC, SON and the CPC. NAFDAC, a sitting member of ACC has just shown its committent on the issue.’’

Oghoghorie, who is also the head of Corporate Security and Brand Assurance, Guiness Nigeria, said there is the likelihood that a single MoU would come ouf of the synergies that is taking place among the assocations.

He said: ‘’It might be that all these would be amalgamated and there would be a single MoU. The draft is already on. As soon as we agree on the provisions of the draft, we would solicit for the participation of the regulatory institutions in order to fight aduleteration.’’

Also, the Director of Enforcement, NAFDAC, Kingsley Ejiofor, said the MoU will help in reducing the proliferation of sub-standard products in the country.

Ejiofor said NAFDAC and

others are working to together to tackle fake products, adding that there is a Federal Task Force on counterfeiting.

He said the task force comprises of groups that are ready to fight the menace.

According to him, the Chinese government is not encouraging counterfieiting of products in Nigeria, stresssing that the government is working with NAFDAC to fight adulterated drugs.

“We are on the same page with the Chinese government. We are about having an MoU signed with the Chinese government.We are almost through with it. Its just for us to meet and sign it.

Recently, the Chinese Foods and Drugs Agency came to Nigeria to meet NAFDAC’s Director-General on the issue,“ he said.

TUC blames misapplication of funds

T

HE Trade Union Congress has blamed misapplication of funds for the pervasive corruption in the country.

Its President, Comrade Bobboi Kaigama, lamented that most projects in the country would have made Nigeria one of the most developed nations of the world were they completed.

“The fact on ground is that it is really a challenging period for Nigeria as its external debt stock is about $35 billion with the borrowed funds for most capital projects not seen on ground,” he said.

Kaigama warned that the economy is collapsing in

By Toba Agboola

spite of the rebasing of its gross domestic product (GDP), which repositioned the country as the 26th biggest economy in the World, and the largest in Africa.

According to him, the irony of the whole issue is that after the rebased GDP to the present estimate of $509.9billion (N280.2trillion) for 2013, overtaking South Africa’s $372billion for the same period, Nigeria has been described by the World Bank as a very poor country with majority of its populace living below the poverty line on less than $1.25 (N213) per day.

He said:“Moreover, the constant epileptic power supply, high unemployment rate, inflation, poor wages to workers, infrastructural decay, low per capital income make us to conclude that the new economic status declared by the government is just an ego boosting exercise and a pure illusion.”

He called on the Federal Government to implement consistent and realistic monetary and fiscal policies that woul favour the growth of the real sector rather than the current unnecessary borrowing that have negative implications on all sectors of the economy.

Kaigama said only an ef-

fective mechanism put in place by the government to curb all unnecessary borrowing as well as good governance that will save the nation’s economy from collapse He decried the recruitment process into the civil service, describing it as irregular and bias.

Kaigama condemned the appointment of graduates with 12 years ‘ post National Youth Service corps (NYSC) experience as Director in the civil service at the expense of those who have put in over 30 years in service, stressing that the Federal Government should reverse past cases to restore sanity in the system.

Govt sets 2015 date for Coal power plant operation

F

EDERAL government has set next year as the take-off date for a coal powered electricity generation. This is on the heels of incessant destruction of pipelines by vandals in most parts of the country.

Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo, said pipeline vandalism is the major reason for the current challenges of power supply in the country.

He said this on the sidelines of the signing of Memorandum of Under-

By OkwyIroegbu- Chikezie

standing between the Federal Government and Atlas Petroleum Corporation in Abuja.

While decrying the spate of gas pipeline vandalism, the minister said power generation had dropped to about 3,200MW from a little above 4,000MW as a result of the sabotage. “The recent dip in power supply has been due mainly to inadequate gas supply to thermal power plants,” he said.

Nebo explained that about 2,300MW was lost in the past few months due to the vandalism of five different gas pipelines that supply power to the national grid.

According to him, the affected pipelines include the Escravos-Lagos Gas Pipeline System with a generation capacity of 800MW (mega watts) and the TransForcados pipeline with capacity of 800MW. Others are Trans-Niger pipeline with capacity of 500MW, the Alakiri-Onne

gas pipeline and Chevron gas plant with capacity of 2,672 MW were also affected.

He revealed that President Goodluck Jonathan recently pledged $1 billion to address pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft.

On hydropower dams, the minister said the current low water level had greatly affected the use of the dams.

He further assured that rehabilitation work was ongoing at the Kainji andShiroro dams to upgrade them.

ARGEST producer of ce ment in Nigeria, Dangote Cement Plc., has vowed to make cement one of the cheapest construction materials in the country to enable more Nigerians own their houses.

Its Group Managing Director, Mr. Edwin Devakumar, who spoke at the unveiling of the 32.5 and 3X cement in Lagos, said the company is working assiduously to increase cement production from the current 29 million tons to 42 million tons from its factories across sub-Saharan Africa.

He said it was part of efforts to meet the aspiration of consumers that made the company to crash ex-factory price of cement to N1,000.

To ensure that the N1000 price is sustained in the market, the company delivers the product to dealers with its enhanced transportation system. The decision, according to the company, will ensure reduced retail price.

Devakumar said: “We have also drastically reduced the price of 42.5, which is our premium to N1,150 per bag ex-factory, ex-VAT, for the benefits to trickle down to the consumers. We have enough trucks to deliver cement at the door steps of dealers and consumers.”

He said the products would henceforth, be delivered at the door steps of consumers in the Southsouth, Southeast and Southwest at N1000 per bag because of the proximity of the factories to these regions, while they will charge N150 per bag in other parts of the country.

Devakumar said its major priority is to ensure that customers are protected in

By Okwy Iroegbu- Chikezie

the distribution chain, assuring that it would put mechanism in place to monitor the sale of the product.

He expressed optimism that the price reduction will increase per capita consumption of cement in the country, which he noted is currently lower compared to other African countries.

He said the company is poised to make housing affordable to the majority of Nigerians by not only making cement cheap but accessible to the people.

He debunked the allegation of monopoly against them by competitors, but rather charged them to put the interest of consumers at heart.

The Director-General of Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Joseph Odumodu, urged cement manufacturers to key into the Nigeria Industrial Standard (NIS), on cement standardisation as they are determined to pursue quality standards as a regulator in the manufacturing sector.

Harping on the essence of adhering to the ongoing cement standardisation in the country, Dangote’s Chief Marketing Officer, Mr. Oare Ojiekere said the 32.5 is meant for plastering only and it is lower in grade and quality compared to 42.5 and 52. 5 cement grades.

He advised consumers to look at the grade and usage inscription on the bags of cement before purchasing them, noting that there are grave consequences of using cement meant for plastering on casting and concrete work.

Lack of storage facilities puts fruit growers in danger

L

ACK of storage, marketing and infrastructure development facilities are the major obstacles to ensuring fair prices of seasonal fruits, a don, Dr Ademola Adeyemo has said .

Farmers have been producing tonnes of various kinds of fruits, harvesting huge quantities of fruits, but they could not get fair prices due to absence of storage and transport facilities, Adeyemo, Deputy Director, Department of General Administration, Agricultural and Rural Management Institute (ARMTI) Ilorin said.

He said farmers have counted heavy losses following absence of storage facilities, which made them sell their fruits at throwaway prices.

Every year tonnes of different kinds of rotten seasonal fruits l such mangoes, pineapples, watermelons, oranges, tomatoes, bananas, papaya and guavas worth over millions of Naira are being perished due to lack of cold storages, fruit processing plants, marketing and transport facilities.

He called on the government to support farmers set up cold storages, fruits processing plants, modern road and marketing facili-

By Daniel Essiet

ties.

This, he explained, would have farmers that could not carry their fruits to other markets for lack of adequate transport facilities.

He noted that transportation is key to rural farmers ferrying their produce to the towns, adding that they cannot achieve success if they fail to transport their fruits to consumers.

He said farmers are facing serious infrastructure and logistic problems, includinglack of cold storage and transport facilities.

He said there is no way the fruit industry will grow without much improved infrastructure in the supply chain, mostly an effective cold chain from harvesting products to sale to the end consumer.

According to him ,the most effective way of preserving and keeping food items fresh after harvest is to store those in suitable temperatures, and freezing produce straight after harvest is also a common method used around the world mostly for highly perishable produce.

This, he explained, provides a very long shelf life, but it requires an effective cold chain infrastructure.

27

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

BUSINESS AFRICA

Firm seeks more deals from IOCs

I

NDIGENOUS operators in oil and gas sector have urged the Federal Government to ensure that the gains of the Local Content Act get to their target by creating opportunities for the employment of Nigerians by multinational companies in jobs which Nigerian firms can to execute.

The General Manager, Fenog Nigeria Limited, Mr. Uwakwe Chukwudi, made the plea at the commissioning of a selfpropelled swamp lay barge; three service vessels; PD350 ton HDD rig; HDD water borehole and soil sample collection rig, and phase 1 of 350 meter rigid pavement access road in base 3 of the company’s jetty/

From Bolaji Ogundele, Warri

fabrication yard at Ugbuwangwe, Warri, Delta State.

Chukwudi, who called on President Goodluck Jonathan; the Minister of Petroleum Resources; the Group Managing Director of NNPC; Group General Manager, NAPIMS; the Executive Secretary and members of the NCDMB; the International Oil Companies ( IOC’s) and other stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to assist local companies that have world class capabilities by giving them jobs.

He said his company has been playing its part to ensure that

the wealth of the oil and gas industry gets to all Nigerians by massively investing in the building of heavy equipment.

He said the latest equipment will no doubt add momentum to the success of Fenog in the oil and gas industry, urging the IOC’s and government bodies to adopt Fenog’s novel method of pipeline installation as a better technology.

Chukwudi said: “Local companies like Fenog Nigeria Limited deserve encouragement to participate actively in the oil and gas industry. When we are encouraged, development will spread to all parts of the oil-rich Niger Delta region and a good percentage of our

army of unemployed youths will be employed. We count on your support for patronage in the days, months and years ahead.

“In addition to being the 2014 NOG indigenous Company Award recipient, Fenog Nigeria Limited is on the sure roadmap of being included in the world’s Guinness Book of Records for installing a 67km by 20inch Amukpe to Escravos pipeline, using Fenog’s pioneered, Continuous Horizontal Directional Drilling (CHDD) method, which is the longest and most secured string of pipeline in the world.”

He, however, called on the Petroleum Minister, NNPC Chief,

NCDMB and NAPIMS, to prevail on Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to award his firm the Trans Niger Pipeline Loopline (TNPL) project since huge resources have been expended in acquiring these equipments.

The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Ernest Nwapa, praised Fenog for acquiring such equipment and promised the firm that the board would do all within its power to ensure that the Local Content Act is strictly adhered to by the oil companies.

He noted that it was good to have partnership with

companies that are progressive and have the capacity to do some of the works done in the oil and gas industry, adding that investments such as the ones embarked upon by Fenog that grows the economy. “I also like the way Fenog grows partnership with other oil companies. This is another way of building capacity. We are in a situation whereby the country is faced with only two or three industries and our economy has been sustained by these industries. It is a good thing to have partnership with companies that are progressive and companies that have the capacity to do some of the works we are doing in the industry today.

LCCI canvass emphasis on non-oil economy

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•From left: Vice President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, Deputy President, Mr. Knut Ulvmoen, Mrs. Nike Akande, President, Alhaji Remi Bello, Honoourary Life Vice President, Chief Philip Asiodu and Honourary Life Vice President, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye at the Dinner Reception held by the Chamber for some of its officers recently awarded National Honours by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Clean energy takes centre stage at Abuja summit

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N line with the “Sustainable Energy for All Initiative” of the United Nations and the mandate of doubling the share of renewable energy in Africa, the first Africa Clean Energy Summit (ACES) 2014, will bring together stakeholders in the power sector to find ways to shift focus from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

The summit, which holds at the Sheraton Hotel in Abuja from November 17 to 20, is coming on the heels of the current debate at the international level on the need to move from fossil fuels to renewable energy. It is expected to give birth to the Africa Climate Solution Centre (ACSC), a hub that will serve as a clearing house for clean and renewable products, investors, financial institution and exhibi-

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By Muyiwa Lucas

tors for the African market.

According to the Chief Operating Director (COD), Africa Clean Energy Summit, Mr. Olawale Akinwunmi, the event will include a world-class meeting, an international exhibition, technical conferences, business fora and other activities. “The hub will operate as a 24/7 permanent climate friendly energy solution initiative for exhibition and sales of renewable energy products and services. The initiative highlights both new and planned developments, helping to source technology, secure financing and enter into business partnerships with development partners,” he said.

Other activities slated for the summit include the incorpora-

tion of the Goodluck Jonathan Institute of Clean Technology (GJICT). Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Chief Executive Officer, Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL), and UN Energy Chair, will deliver the keynote address at the event.

Akinwumi, who is the Chairman, the Environment Communications Limited, said the summit would also bring to the fore an earlier submission of relevance of the declaration of Mohammed Ashry, the Chairman, Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century, who reckoned that with the world’s energy dynamics becoming increasingly complex, there is a need for greater global integration and collaboration to address how the world

will power its future generations.

“Indeed, the future of renewable energy looks very different presently than it did a decade ago. This is well accentuated by the recent unanimous declaration by the UN General Assembly, which designated 2014-2024 as the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Energy for All. “This declaration underscores the importance of energy to sustainable development and the need for increased use of renewable sources of energy, energy efficiency, and the sustainable use of traditional energy resources. Nigeria will replicate what America is doing; just as President Obama is solarising America, President Jonathan is solarising Nigeria,” Akinwunmi said.

‘eID Card will stem fraudulent activities’

S part of the pilot phase, NIMC has started to issue identify cards with MasterCard’s electronic payments functionality, which raised eyebrows among stakeholders in the IT and financial sectors of the economy.

Speaking in Lagos during a media roundtable, Director General, NIMC, Chris Onyemenam, said the eID Card is capable of detecting fraudulent activities, adding that MasterCard was engaged to only provide the payments technology on the eID, in accordance with international standard.

He explained that the commission hopes to register about 100 million Nigerians, adding that what NIMC is do-

By Toba Agboola

ing is identity management, to avoid duplication of efforts and waste of scarce resources carried out in the past.

He noted that other agencies of government involved in the capturing of biometrics of Nigerians are merely issuing identity cards and not identity management.

He pointed out that identity management enables Nigerians to update their biometrics whenever the need arises, as it is a continuous process.

He said: “We are talking about a situation, for instance, where as a single lady was enrolled and tomorrow she gets married, she can go to a particular location and

update the information about herself.

“Identity management is about being able to affirm or assert your identity. It is not just about issuance of cards.

“Cards can be obtained at the road side business centres or cyber cafes. This is not what we are talking about.”

Onyemenam said a harmonisation, implementation and integration committee has been set up to streamline the data from relevant government agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Commission, the Police, Independent National Electoral Commission, National Population Commission, Nigerian Immigration Service, among others.

On the funding of the project by the Federal Government,

the Director General of NIMC said N30 billion had been released for its initial take-off over a period of three years.

On how MasterCard was selected for the programme, the DG said, “MasterCard presented it’s payments solution and business proposal to NIMC for the National eID Card business together with other card schemes and companies. The three popular schemes, approved and licenced by the Central Bank to operate in Nigeria and with significant business relationship with the Nigerian deposit money banks, we’re invited to submit proposals to NIMC. The most responsive and willing vendors was MasterCard”.

AGOS Chamber of Commerce and Indus try ( LCCI), has called on government to lay more emphasis on non-oil economy as it is more inclusive, growth-oriented and characterised by high economic linkages and more sustainable.

The Chamber also noted that the pressing and overriding challenge in our quest for economic diversification and transformation is to fix the impediments to productivity and competitiveness in the economy.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2014 Lagos International Trade Fair with the theme “Promoting the Nigerian economy as a preferred investment destination” over the weekend, LCCI president, Alhaji Remi Bello said the impediments include the state of the infrastructure, especially public power supply, substandard and fake products and high cost of funds in addition to inconsistent policies.

President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Com-

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

merce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture ( NACCIMA ) Alhaji Mohammed Badaru in his remarks said the theme of the fair is timely at this time when the Federal Government is implementing policies that will soon revolutionize the country’s investment climate and position it as one of the best places to for business globally.

He said: “The theme cannot be more important than now when the value of indigenous and sectoral linkages, and benefits of inclusive growth are being transmitted and fast tracked to ensure adequate provision of the enabling environment, including infrastructure and incentives to support increased economic activities, to ensure macroeconomic and policy stability for business to flourish.

Badaru stressed that no economy can experience sustainable level of real growth and national development without harnessing its trade potentials for successful transformation of the real sector.

Experts praise reduction of cement price by Dangote

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XPERTS have hailed the re duction of cement price by Dangote Cement Plc to N1,000 from N1,800. They said it is a good omen which would encourage more developments and, by extension, more jobs not only for professionals but artisans who have been out of jobs because of stalled projects. National President, Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers (NIStructE), Dr. Samuel Ilugbekhai, said the price reduction is an achievement which would benefit many, directly and indirectly.

He said: “By this singular act of patriotism, cement is being made more available and more affordable for developmental purposes. Coming barely a week after the conference of the Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers (NIStructE) on “The Effect of Cement Strength on Concrete Performance” where we called on the regulating authorities to lay more emphasis on the manufacturing of cement to ensure that they meet national and international standards, I am particularly gladdened by this development and I humbly encourage all other cement manufacturers to reduce their prices so that cement will be more affordable to more Nigerians across the country.”

President, Building Collapse

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

Prevention Guild, Mr. Kunle Awobodu, hailed the price reduction, noting that it was part of their campaign which they recently took to the National Assembly when they presented a position paper to the Upper Legislative Assembly adhoc committee on cement. He said part of their argument was that cement is capable of causing building collapse due to its exorbitant price as builders may be tempted to cut corners.

Awobodu, who is the third vice president of the Nigerian Institute of Building, canvassed a situation where a bag of cement will not cost more than N800 so that many can afford it.

He regretted that the product was more expensive in Nigeria of all cement producing countries, and hailed the reduction.

He encouraged other companies to follow the example of Dangote Cement Plc. A town planner and immediate past Secretary General, Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON), Mr. Ayo Adejumo said the reduction in the price of cement will increase activities in the construction sector. He noted the high number of abandoned projects in the country which is tied to high construction cost.

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BUSINESS INTERNATIONAL

Euro zone considers three bailout exit options for Greece

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URO zone finance ministers will consider three options for what happens after Greece exits its bailout at the end of the year, seeking to balance the need to reassure investors with the demands of domestic Greek politics.

The Greek government has staked its survival on exiting the bailout a year earlier, a move that will please voters hammered by austerity measures imposed by the EU and the IMF, but which has already rattled markets, pushing up Greek bond yields.

Finance Minister Gikas Hardouvelis told Reuters he hoped for an interim

period of up to a year after exiting the bailout during which Greece will still be get a financial safety net but would no longer be “micro-managed” by lenders.

After two international bailouts totalling 240 billion euros since 2010, when private investors refused to lend to Athens any more, Greece wants to switch back to market financing from the start of next year.

Markets reacted nervously to the plan, worried that Athens would have no longer have any financial back-up. Greek benchmark 10-year

bond yields rose to 8.9 percent in late October from 5.6 percent in early September.

Greece and euro zone finance ministers will therefore discuss ways to provide Athens with fall-back financing to boost investor confidence, while addressing domestic political sensitivities.

All three options to be discussed include a financial cushion, using 11 billion euros already granted to recapitalise Greek banks, but which turned out not to be needed, euro zone officials said.

In the first option, the

recapitalisation money, now in European Financial Stability Facility bonds, would be returned to the EFSF and Greece would instead apply for and get an Enhanced Conditions Credit Line (ECCL) from the European Stability Mechanism — the successor of the EFSF. This would allow Greece to say it is not longer under a programme, make it possible for euro zone ministers to increase the size of the credit line above the 11 billion if necessary and set clear conditions for the availability of the money, even if it is not drawn upon.

But obtaining an ECCL would mean Greece has to sign a new “memorandum of understanding”, politically sensitive in Greece where the previous MOU detailed austerity reforms demanded by lenders, resented by Greeks as a loss of sovereignty by Athens.

This option is also relatively lengthy — it would take a minimum of five weeks to complete — and tougher on conditions because the ECCL could be cancelled if Greece fails to meet reform targets and Athens would then have to apply for new, fully-fledged bailout.

Global experts to discuss public procurement

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FORMER top US presidential aide who served three American Presidents, Dr. Allan Burman is amongst top speakers expected at the 2014 National Conference on Public Procurement (NACOPP), at the State House Conference Centre (formerly Banquet Hall), Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja.

The conference, to be declared open by President Goodluck Jonathan, is being organised by National Public Procurement Forum (NPPF).

The NPPF, according to Conference Planning Committee Chair, Ms. Arinola Giwa Amu, is a union between Public Procurement entities at the Federal and state levels in a •From right: Vice President Namadi Sambo; President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alhaji Remi Bello; Vice President Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole and Director-General Mr. Muda Yusuf during a visit to Sambo by the chamber.

EU’s finance chief to unveil capital market plan

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HE EU’s new financial services chief has pledged to set out his plans for a pan-European capital market by the middle of next year, aiming to reduce companies’ reliance on banks and help revive the bloc’s fragile economy.

Jonathan Hill, the European Commissioner for financial services, said he was seeking to create an integrated capital market over the next fives years and would develop a plan by next summer following a public consultation.

“We still do not have a fully functioning single market for capital,” Hill told a conference of EU officials and business leaders. “I will be bringing forward proposals to deliver a capital markets union; a project for all 28 EU Member States.”

Channeling more money into

small companies is seen as crucial for Europe’s efforts to avoid economic stagnation because small and medium enterprises provide two out of every three private sector jobs in the European Union.

Following the worst financial crisis in a generation, banks are reducing riskier lending, a problem in a continent where banks account for 80 percent of corporate loans.

A capital markets union would mean the EU moving beyond public subsidies and loans to coordinate financing for companies and infrastructure through project bonds, public-private partnerships and infrastructure funds.

Hill said his first steps would be to push a proposal for Euro-

pean long term investment funds for infrastructure and businesses, to develop a framework for securitisation and to carry out analysis of private placements – the sale of securities to a small number of chosen institutional investors.

“I am interested in ideas for more market finance instruments – but not just in safe short-term debt, but in longer term stable debt that encourages long term investment, and in real risk capital that encourages innovation.”

The European Central Bank is at the heart of wider efforts to create a capital markets union by trying to revive securitization, or the bundling of loans into bonds to raise cash for companies to invest.

SkyTeam launches revamped application

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KYTEAM, the global airline alliance, has launched a refreshed version of its App. Free to download and available for Apple and Android devices.

The updated App now offers even more useful features for global travelers on the go.

“The App now has more useful content to aid customers during their trav-

els, with tools such as Lounge, Flight, Airport and SkyPriority finders, enhancing passengers experience,” said Michael Kimman, SkyTeam’s Vice President IT. “We are working to enrich every interaction customers have with our alliance will continue developing the App to help deliver a seamless travel experience across the SkyTeam Network. In addition to im-

proving its usability, the App is now also available in Simplified Chinese and will soon be published in Spanish.”

SkyTips is an easy-to-use database of airport travel tips shared by SkyTeam’s online community of more than 350,000 Facebook fans. The tips help customers make the most of their time at the airports and is available offline for easy access in flight mode.

Etihad extends flights to Mumbai, New Delhi

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TIHAD Airways has announced that Mumbai and New Delhi will become its first destinations in India to be served with triple-daily flights, strengthening its unparalleled offering with Jet Airways into and out of the country.

Both cities will be upgraded from their current double-daily frequencies, with the third daily flight to Mumbai starting on February, 15 2015 and to New Delhi on May 1, 2015. The development will provide business and leisure travellers with more options throughout the day between the UAE

and India, and enhance India’s connections with markets across Etihad Airways’ global network.

Along with Jet Airways’ services, both airlines will connect Abu Dhabi to 14 Indian cities, with over 200 return flights each week. This includes five flights a day to Mumbai, four flights a day to New Delhi, three flights a day to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kochi, two flights a day to Ahmedabad and Kozhikode, and daily flights to Jaipur and Trivandrum.

Etihad Airways will also launch a

daily service to Kolkata, capital of West Bengal, on 15 February 2015 to support its long-term development plan in India, and Jet Airways has announced it will soon launch daily services between Abu Dhabi and Goa, Lucknow and Pune.

In addition to the airline’s network developments, Etihad Airways has upgraded its aircraft on a number of Indian routes, including the debut of three-class, wide-body aircraft on select flights. The airline will also operate its new Boeing 787-9 on Mumbai evening services in January 2015.

renewed bid to forge a working relationship at key tiers of government.

Giwa Amu, who is also Senior Special Adviser, Due Process, to the Delta State Governor, revealed that Federal and State Public Procurement entities are convinced that the procurement reform will grow better if awareness is continuously created amongst public procurement functionaries.

It is the reason why NPPF is, besides inviting Mr. Burman, also expecting Executive Director of the Washington based International Law Institute (ILI), Ms. Kim Phan and notable Nigerian procurement scholar, Dr. Sope Williams Elegbe from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa.

Kabo airlifts 8,326 pilgrims from Saudi Arabia

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HE Kabo Air, has concluded the airlift of over 8, 326 Muslim pil grims from Saudi Arabia back to the country.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Captain Saidu Muhammad who disclosed this , while speaking with reporters, described the operation as yet another successful one in the company’s over three decades of existence According to him, passengers cut across Adamawa,Kaduna, Kano and Kwara states.Capt Muhammad noted that the last flight came into the country through Illorin International Airport with a total of 500 pas-

From Kolade Adeyemi Kano

sengers on board which comprises of 412 pilgrims and 88 officials.

He added that apart from the conveying the pilgrims to the holy land and back, along with their luggage, the company has made another history with its 580 seater B747-400 aircraft, in which it recently acquired.

The B747-400 with registration number 5N-MDK is the aircraft with the highest seating capacity in the country.

Captain Saidu then expressed his gratitude to all and sundry that contributed to the success of the exercise.

BA introduces Xmas fare

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RITISH Airways, has an nounced amazing offers for international travellers in Nigeria.

Part of the offers include a free upgrade to First for Club World customers.

The offer covers outbound travel from Lagos or Abuja in Nigeria, to destinations in London, Europe and North America from October to December 31, 2014.

According to the Regional Commercial Manager, West Africa at British Airways, Mr. Kola

Olayinka, the new offer was created to reward the airline’s customers by providing access to its most exclusive products in the first class check-in areas and lounges, including a selection of the finest wines and a concierge service.

“This is a great opportunity to thank and reward our customers this season. During the period of the offer, our Club World customers can experience the unparalleled luxury of our exclusive and prestigious First cabin service both on board and at the airport,” he said.

Firms sign secret tax deals with Luxembourg

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ORE than 300 companies, including PepsiCo Inc (PEP.N), AIG Inc (AIG.N) and Deutsche Bank AG (DBKGn.DE), secured secret deals from Luxembourg to slash their tax bills, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) reported, quoting leaked documents.

The companies appear to have channeled hundreds of billions of dollars through Luxembourg and saved billions of dollars in taxes, the group of investigative journalists said, based on a review of nearly 28,000 pages of confidential documents.

The leaked documents reviewed by ICIJ journalists include hundreds of private tax rulings – known as comfort letters – that Luxembourg pro-

vides to corporations seeking favorable tax treatment.

Luxembourg officials denied any “sweetheart deals” in its tax system.

“The Luxembourg system of taxation is competitive – there is nothing unfair or unethical about it,” ICIJ quoted Nicolas Mackel, chief executive of Luxembourg for Finance, as saying in an interview.

Pepsi, AIG and Deutsche Bank were not immediately available for comment.

EU state aid regulators are investigating Amazon’s (AMZN.O) tax deals with Luxembourg, saying the arrangements could have underestimated the U.S. online retailer’s profits and given it an unfair advantage, Reuters reported in October.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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ISSUES The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) may have been stamped out of the country, but it’s ripple effects are taking a huge toll on the businesses related to tourism and hospitality. OKORIE UGURU reports.

Ebola: Counting losses in tourism industry

• Akwaaba Travel fair 2014

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HERE was an air of euphoria and sighs of relief when the World Health Organisation (WHO) certified Nigeria Ebola Virous Disease (EVD) free last September. This was after the mandatory 21-day waiting period to see if the disease, which was imported into the country from Liberia, would resurface.

While Nigeria battled the disease from July through August and September, the industry most hit, negatively, by the Ebola outbreak, was the tourism and hospitality industry. Thousands of foreign tourists, mostly on business, left the country.

They left behind thousands of empty bed spaces. Hotels also had cancellations in their event centres of programmes booked months earlier. Occupancy rate for hotels in Lagos, which hitherto had hovered between 75 to 90 per cent, for example, nosedived to about 15 per cent. Some even went lower than that. So, the announcement by WHO was like a kiss of life for the industry.

The tourism industry was not spared.

Many tourism programme had to be either cancelled or postponed. The annual Akwaaba International Tourism Fair held in Lagos last month was almost cancelled but for the doggedness of its organisers.

Initially, about 20 countries were billed to attend the fair, but at the end of the day, only Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa and Ethiopia participated. The organiser of the fair, Mr. Ikechi Uko, said at the peak of

the crisis when countries started canceling their participations, he ended up being on admission at the hospital, having expended so much fund into the project. He said it was a miracle that the event survived the crisis. But he had to reduce the size of the fairground due to the cancellations.

Post Ebola business environment Ordinarily, the clean bill of health given by the WHO should have signaled the return to business normalcy. But many expatriate investors and businessmen, who left the country in a hurry, are not in keen about returning. They are mindful of Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea that are still battling with the disease. They constitute the bulk of business for most branded hotels and top local hospitality outfits in the country. That is why top brands in the industry are passing through difficult times. Con-

sidering the fact that most costs in running a hotel are fixed with or without guests, the hotels are incurring enormous cost to keep their hotels open. The fear is that if the situation did not normalise in the next couple of months, many hotels will close down pushing thousands of people into the labour market. The grim reality is that if the situation does not improve, many hotel workers would be thrown into the labour market.

Long-term effect of the Ebola crisis on hospitality industry Since 2008, Nigeria has seen a steady influx of top hospitality brands into the country.

Before then, the only top international hospitality brands were Starwood Hospitality Group’s Sheraton and Le Meridian and Hilton (which later pulled out) and then the

‘

‘The Ebola crisis has actually affected the entire hospitality, tourism and leisure industry, not only in Nigeria, but all over West Africa. We are only fortunate that ours has been wiped out; we have a government that is pro-active to some extent’

’

Protea group of hotels from South Africa.

However, between 2008 and now, the industry has witnessed an explosion in international hospitality brands making in-road into the country. They include Four-Point by Sheraton; Southern Sun; African Sun; Radisson Blue; Marriot; Golden Tulip; Ibis; Luxury Collections; Swiss group and many others. It is no secret that the growth in the hospitality industry was helped by the Arab Spring.

If the Ebola crisis is not tackled, all these gains may be lost.

The Managing Director of Swiss Hotel group, West Africa, Dr. Wasiu Babalola, explained the co-relation: “Let’s look at Arab uprising as an example. Leaders of about two or three countries were removed because of the Arab Spring, but are they steady? If you look at it, most investors moved their business because they thought it will be a short thing, it became long and we don’t know when it is going to stop.

“As business investors, they need to make money, so they moved practically all their events out of North Africa to subSahara, especially West Africa. Those guys are here and they are comfortable, even when the crisis was over, they did not go back. When you look at a research that was done this year, as at three years ago, about three countries in North Africa (Egypt, Morocco, and Libya) had about 50 per cent of hotel development in Africa, • Continued on page 30

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ISSUES

Ebola: Counting losses in tourism industry •Continued from page 29

and then Nigeria was ranked fourth in hotel development. But as at 2014, Nigeria is accounting for about 48 per cent of developments in Africa, that is based on signed contracts and so on while Egypt is far below. It means some of the investments that were planned for Egypt two years ago had to be moved away, and the same thing with this Ebola crisis. If we don’t try to build the confidence in the populace, investors and foreign travelers, they will look elsewhere.”

The attraction to Nigeria is the huge population, the steady economic growth, the oil money and to, a certain extent, Nigeria has become very popular for international conference tourism. Unfortunately, all these are evaporating into thin air as the Nigerian hospitality industry battles various problems. For them, the issue of safety has made profitability to pale into insignificance.

The Managing Director of HSSL Global, Nigeria’s first indigenous hospitality management group, Ayo Olowoporoku, put it thus: “This year has been challenging as a result of the Ebola outbreak. It has adversely affected business. Most of the people that use hotels come from other countries.

“They come by air, and if airlines are affected, it affects the industry. Ebola has affected travel generally. I, personally, have lost businesses, cancellations of reservations and so on, because companies cannot risk convening people in a venue. They don’t want to risk it. Even transient customers are refusing to come to hotels or places where they know they will meet with a lot of people. Everybody is running away. Hotels depend on social lives and ability of the people. We have been adversely affected.”

Babalola added his voice: “The Ebola crisis has actually affected the entire hospitality, tourism and leisure industry, not only in Nigeria, but all over West Africa. We are only fortunate that ours has been wiped out; we have a government that is pro-active to some extent.

“Ebola has affected the hospitality business directly, and possibly the tourism and leisure industry indirectly. Presently, most hotels are experiencing the worse case, even worse than the world recession. It has been recorded that even during global recession, when all other economies were reducing prices, Nigerian hotels were increasing prices. This is a kind of global epidemic that has actually affected hotel industry seriously. We are currently experiencing occupancy at the lowest ebb; we, the investors, are having terrible cash flow situations.

“There is no confidence anymore in the industry as it is. This has shown to me that customers value their safety. Safety is now a core, and that is the message they have passed across that Ebola is a safety issue and customers are particular about their safety.” When asked if the local market has also been affected, he said: “I can say it is both ends. When Ebola was still animal to man transmission, it was still a bit manageable, but when it became human to human…the hospitality business is about human beings, which is giving service to human beings, it became a very serious problem for the industry.

“You can see how parents revolted when government announced that schools should resume, they said no, we won’t. We know also people that took their children out of the country, saying whenever they get back, the children will continue with their schooling. Hospitality is human driven, not technology driven, you have to make contacts with human beings, because of that most of the foreign clientele had to leave. Even the local market, people said this is not the right

•Disun Holloway

•Ikechi Uko

•Wasiu Babalola

time to organise any event, any retreat or anything.

“So, the corporate client that would have even sustained our economy is not even coming out because people would say Ebola is everywhere, we don’t even know who is carrying Ebola. It is not written on anybody’s face. That is why it is everywhere, the local market retreated into its shell and the international travelers are not looking at our way. That is where the government needs to start looking at the post Ebola effect which will be tougher than the Ebola crisis itself.”

So, how has the industry been coping with the dwindling revenue and cash flow as a result of Ebola? Most top hospitality outfits in the country are finding it difficult paying salaries of their workers. As at middle of last month, most of the hotels have not paid their workers September salaries.

One of the leading non-branded hotels in Lagos based in Victoria Island has laid off all its auxiliary staff. There are threats that some workers would be laid off if the problem continues.

“It is so bad that most operators are making less than one-third of what they used to make, meanwhile the cost of doing business is still the same. We still need to run diesel and so on. At a point, the investor would need to make decision: which cost do I have control over? The first thing that comes to mind would be staff. The second thing that comes to mind is that let’s turn it to bread and breakfast hotel.

“We start sacking all the food and beverages department. As investors, there are options. If the government would allow us to get to that option, they are going to get a long-term problem on their hands, because they will start fretting where do we get jobs.

It does not only affect the people we sack.

Our third party suppliers will sack some people because the capacity for demand is coming down.”

Some of them complained about the issue of cash flow as a result of this low occupancy rate, they are asking for incentives like tax waivers for them to recoup some of the money they are losing.

However, Lagos State Commisoner for Tourism and Inter-governmental Relations, Mr. Disun Holloway said no: “there are no plans to that effect”. Adding: “We’ve not been approached with such request and we meet with them regularly. There are other

things that will happen. The state government cannot, any time something happens in an industry, begins tax breaks and things like that. We quite appreciate what has happened in the industry and we will do our best to ensure that the period that they are going through does not turn into a period of massive unemployment. We are glad that, as at now, the hotel occupancy rate has begun to go up. So, we hope it will continue.”

sonal hygiene, food hygiene, and a certificate being displayed so that everybody will know that they have done this thing.

The government needs also to go back to the media and make noise on a daily basis that Nigeria is Ebola free.

“I went to Google to get the names of Ebola country, Nigeria’s name was among, they did not even say Sierra Leone and other places, because that is not the market for the press. Nigeria is the most populous black nation on earth, so it goes beyond October 1st announcement by the President thanking everybody. No, the president, the governors and everybody needs to, on daily basis, tell the whole world that they are free to do their business in Nigeria without fear of any contagious disease, even beyond Ebola.

“We should also start talking about other things beyond Ebola. It is building confidence in the consumers and investors so that they don’t find a way to move their fund because if investors don’t get their returns, everybody has an exit strategy, they will move. So, for us to guard against it, the government needs to do that. Now, once you are making noise that Nigeria is Ebola free, talk to both the print and electronic media. Put it on the social media and foreign magazines; let’s do a campaign that we are Ebola free nation.

This is a campaign the government can undertake for just three months and we will achieve result. While government is doing that, it will generate some level of demands. The local demands will get excited to sustain the industry pending when the big funding will come. You would remember that WAEC does their marking in Lagos. West African Surgeons also use hotels in Lagos.

“All these West African examination bodies come to Nigeria for their programmes. Since Ebola, all of them have moved out. So, if we don’t quickly do this, they may get comfortable wherever they are and may not come back. So, we need to quickly do that. That is in the short term.”

For the medium term solution, the industry according to Babalola, needs to look at the investors, who are crying for help, but not crying aloud because they still hope that normalcy would return. “But I pray it doesn’t get to the next two to three months.

Probably the signal the government will see would be retrenchment of workers,” he said. The industry, he said, has been greatly affected by the stigma from the Ebola Virus Disease as some hotels that have suffered low patronage have begun to lay off some of their workers.

“Presently in the industry, we know of some of our colleagues that have laid off their temporary staff. They are keeping minimal staff; the basic workers, because patronage had dropped ridiculously in Lagos particularly, to between 20 to 30 per cent. Even some unbranded hotels are experiencing less than 10 per cent drop in patronage. It is so bad that most operators are making less than one-third of what they used to make, meanwhile the cost of doing business is still the same,” he said.

Wooing back tourists The hotels say they have not been sitting and waiting for their guests to return, rather they have been pro-active in wooing them back; telling them that Ebola has been wiped out of Nigeria. According to the Deputy General Manager of Southern Sun, Ikoyi, Mr. Cliff Shiridzinody, efforts to bring back guests would take at least, three months before yeilding results.

“You know it is not going to take just the next day for people to come. The damage was done. We are talking of health issues here, it will take three or four months for people to come. But what we have done is that we have taken all the cuts from the newspapers and e-mail them to the travel agents outside Nigeria and say this is what is happening in Nigeria. So, we are sending the cuts from all the newspapers to corporate organisations and travel agents in South Africa, because most of our businesses come from there, so that they can know the situation. But it is not uhuru yet, it is not going to be tomorrow, no, it will take long for the industry to stabilise again.

“When the news of WHO clearance came out, our head office in Dubai started sending out information to places where we source our market that Nigeria is Ebola free so that they can bring back the clients that we lost,” Shiridzinody said.

To get the industry back to its feet, according to Babalola, there is need for confidence building. “Building confidence to me is in three ways: we have the short, medium and long term. The short term has to be done by the government, which is two things. One needs to work with the private sector and internationally recognised institutes, such as the Institute of Hospitality, to do health and safety certification of our hospitality units.

“It is all about confirming to the world that our hotels are free, they are doing per-

‘

Most top hospitality outfits in the country are finding it difficult paying salaries of their workers. As at middle of last month, most of the hotels have not paid their workers September salaries. One of the leading nonbranded hotels in Lagos based in Victoria Island has laid off all its auxiliary staff’

’

31

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 7-11-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 7-11-14

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

32

EQUITIES

Foreign investors dump Nigerian equities F

OREIGN investors are scaling down their Nigerian portfolios as global concerns about Nigeria’s macroeconomic, political and security outlook pressured the stock market to a whooping loss of N1.44 trillion last week.

Aggregate market value of all quoted equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) dropped to N11.001 trillion at the weekend as against its opening value of N12.437 trillion for the week, representing a loss of N1.44 trillion.

The All Share Index (ASI), the main composite index that tracks all quoted equities, dropped by 11.54 per cent to 33,216.31 points compared with 37,550.24 points recorded as index-on-board for the week. The spiral decline exacerbated the bearishness that had gripped the market in October.

Nigerian investors lost an average of 8.88 per cent in October, equivalent to about N1.17 trillion, as the stock market set on a grueling fourth quarter that looks to exacerbate the recession at the equities’ market.

Aggregate market value of all quoted equities closed October at N12.437 trillion compared with the opening value of N13.607 trillion for the month, representing a loss of N1.17 billion. The ASI closed October at 37,550.24 points as against 41,210.10 points recorded as opening index for the month.

The decline in October pushed the average year-to-date for the past 10 months to -9.14 per cent. This simply amounted to a loss of N789 billion, although the average decline

•NSE loses N1.44tr

By Taofik Salako, Capital Market Editor

in market capitalisation was moderated by new listings.

The average-year-to-date return last week rose to 19.63 per cent.

Stockbrokers attributed the steep decline to the open market orders by foreign investors exiting their positions in Nigerian equities.

Analysts at Cowry Asset Management Limited, a top investment banking firm, said the continued onslaught on Nigerian equities was “due to outflows of foreign portfolio investments”.

A six-month report for the first half ended June 30, 2014 showed that foreign investors accounted for 60.84 per cent of total turnover value in the Nigerian stock market as against 39.16 per cent recorded

by Nigerian investors.

Total foreign transactions stood at N705.15 billion as against N453.91 billion by Nigerian investors. Total transactions during the period thus stood at N1.159 trillion.

However, there were more outflows than inflows with net foreign deficit of more than N100 billion.

Total foreign outflows stood at N402.63 billion as against foreign inflows of N302.52 billion.

Earlier reports had indicated general decline in foreign investments as the overall trend continued to show net deficit with outflows more than inflows. While foreign participation declined from 75.25 per cent in April to 45.56 per cent in May, domestic participation

more than doubled from 24.75 per cent to 54.44 per cent.

The five-month report for the period ended May 31, 2014 detailed month-on-month as well as periodic transactions by both foreign investors and Nigerian investors.

According to the report, the quantity of total foreign transactions dropped by about N47 billion in May to N91.9 billion, its lowest position in four months. Besides, the inflow- the buy side of the foreign transactions, declined by about N24 billion from this year’s high of N65.1 billion in April to N41.3 billion in May, its lowest position in three months.

Total transactions trended to its high of N201.61 billion in May, driven largely by significant increase in transactions by Nigerian investors, which rose from N45.64 billion in April to N109.75 billion in May. Five-month cumulative analysis however still underlined the dominance of foreign investors, who accounted for about 63 per cent of the turnover on the NSE during the period. Aggregate turnover during the period stood at N933.55 billion, consisting of N587.15 billion from foreign investors and N353.41 billion from Nigerian investors.

Buy-sell analysis of the foreign

transactions showed that foreign investors had taken out more than they invested during the period.

Foreign outflows stood at N353.41 billion within the period as against inflows of N233.74 billion.

In April, foreign investors traded N138.79 billion worth of shares including sales transactions of N73.73 billion and buy transactions of N65.06 billion. Total domestic transactions stood at N45.64 billion.

Total transactions during the month stood at N184.43 billion.

The foreign sale-buy trend in April followed the same trend in recent months, although the momentum of buy transactions appeared to be picking up. In the first quarter, nearly two-thirds of foreign portfolio transactions were on the sell side.

According to the NSE, total foreign outflows stood at N229.03 billion in the first quarter, representing some 64.2 per cent of total foreign transactions during the period.

Total foreign inflows stood at N127.41 billion. Altogether, foreign investors’ deals accounted for N356.50 billion during the threemonth period, more than 65.11 per cent of total transactions of N547.51 billion. This indicated that Nigerian investors accounted for N191.01 billion, 34.89 per cent of total transactions, during the pe-

riod.

Month-on-month analysis showed that there was increase in the momentum of foreign transactions in March 2014, with increases in both sell and buy orders. However, the downtrend continued to dominate transactions. Total foreign outflow in March 2014 stood at N75.42 billion as against inflow of N55.13 billion, totaling N130.55 billion. Foreign investors accounted for 78.25 per cent of total transactions-foreign and domestic, of N166.84 billion in March 2014.

The flow of investments in March 2014 contrasted sharply with the situation in March 2013 when there were more inflows than outflows.

Total foreign inflows totaled 53 per cent of total foreign transactions in March 2013. Total foreign transactions stood at N80.14 billion in March 2013, consisting of inflow of N43.13 billion and outflow of N37.01 billion.

Month-on-month, the outflows in February are about 107 per cent higher compared to January 2014 and about 183 per cent compared to February 2013. While total transactions at the NSE increased from N181.97 billion in January 2014 to N198.70 billion in February 2014, foreign outflows accounted for the increased tempo of activities and the higher proportion of foreign participation to local participation.

Ecobank grows Q3 net profit by 31% to N52b

E

COBANK Transnational Incorporated (ETI) Plc recorded impressive bottom-line in the third quarter as net profit rose by 31 per cent to about N52.5 billion.

Key extracts of the interim report and accounts of ETI for the ninemonth period ended September 30, 2014 showed that the financial holding company grew its top-line by 16 per cent to N207.75 billion in third quarter 2014 while interest income rose by about 11 per cent to N187.67 billion. Profit after tax rose to N52.49 billion in 2014 as against N39.96 billion in comparable period of 2013.

Further analysis showed that the company’s cost to income ratio reduced to 66.56 per cent in 2014 from 71.20 per cent in 2013. Additionally, net margin moved to 19.51 per cent as against 17.23 per cent in previous year. Ecobank was aggressive about lending as its loans to deposit ratio jumped to 71.63 per cent from 66.80 per cent while loans and advances were up by 16.55 per cent to N1.97 trillion in third quarter 2014 as against N1.69 trillion by third quarter 2013.

Deposit from customers also rose by 8.69 per cent to N2.75 trillion as against N2.53 trillion in comparable period of 2013. Total assets rose by 10.69 per cent to N3.83 trillion in 2014 compared with N3.46 trillion in 2013.

Group chief executive officer, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) Plc, Albert Essien, said the company’s strong results for the first nine months of 2014 showed solid revenue growth and a further reduction in our cost-income ratio.

According to him, the sustained improvement in the company’s Nigeria business, the largest of its 36 countries in Africa, and another strong treasury performance, helped to increase earnings per share by 26 percent.

Essien noted that the company’s

capital position was significantly enhanced recently, with the conversion of $75 million of loans by IFC funds in the third quarter and Nedbank’s subsequent investment of $493 million to reach a 20 per cent shareholding in ETI. “The management team and board remain optimistic but vigilant going into the fourth quarter given the macroeconomic and other challenges in some of our countries where we have operations. We pay particular tribute to the dedication and professionalism of our staff in countries affected by the current Ebola epidemic as they work to serve our clients in very difficult circumstances,” Essien said.

•From Left: Managing Director, TrustBond Mortgage Bank Plc, Mr.Adeniyi Akinlusi, Acting Chairman, Mr.Uduma Kalu and Company Secretary, Mr. Mark Okoye during the 5th Annual General Meeting of the mortgage bank in Lagos

Sterling Bank seeks N50b in new capital issues

S

TERLING Bank Plc plans to raise about N50 billion in a new round of capital raising aimed at further deepening the bank’s balance sheet and increase its lending capacity.

Sterling Bank would be raising about N20 billion through a special placement to identified strategic investors and more than N30 billion in another yet-to-be-specified instrument.

Shareholders of the bank are expected to meet tomorrow in Lagos to approve new capital raising.

Shareholders are expected to approve a resolution authorizing the board of directors of the bank to issue about 7.472 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N2.65 per share to Messrs. Silverlake Investments Limited or such other identified strategic investor.

In another resolution, the board of the bank is seeking to raise additional capital up to $200 million or its equivalent in Naira. The fund could be raised through any or a combination equity, global depository receipts, quasi equity, convertible loans, medium term notes, bonds and any other debt instrument.

•Holds EGM tomorrow Besides, the bank plans to explore public offering, rights issue, private placement either as a standalone transaction or by way of a programme, in such tranches, series or proportions, at such coupon or interest rates, within such maturity periods, at such dates and time subject to such terms and conditions, including through a book building process or other processes as the directors may deem fit and subject to the approval of the regulatory authorities.

The meeting is expected to empower the directors to take any action required to give effect to the resolutions on the capital raising.

Managing director, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Yemi Adeola, said the bank plans to complete its new capital raising before the end of the year.

“Following our extra-ordinary general meeting billed for November 11, we plan to conclude the ongoing private placement before the end of the year. This will put us in a strong competitive position to achieve our growth plans in coming quarters. In the meantime, we remain focused on efficiency and

are optimistic that the full year returns will be in line with our earlier management guidance,” Adeola said.

According to him, as part of the initiatives to support its retail banking proposition, the bank has realigned its business by market segments for a more focused market reach while it has continued to increase its transaction channels and it is on track to deliver additional 21 branches and 500 Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) by the end of the year.

The new capital is expected to strengthen the bank’s performance, which has successively improved over the periods. Interim report and accounts of the bank for the third quarter ended September 30, 2014 showed that while gross earnings grew by 12.1 per cent, net interest income rose by 32.8 per cent. This further bloomed into 41.3 per cent and 39.2 per cent in pre and post tax profits respectively.

Gross earnings closed September 2014 at N73.01 billion as against N65.12 billion recorded in comparable period of 2013. Net interest income rose from N24.22 billion in third quarter 2013 to N32.1 billion

in third quarter 2014. Profit before tax jumped to N8.50 billion in 2014 as against N6.02 billion in 2013.

After taxes, net profit rose from N5.07 billion to N7.06 billion.

The bank’s pre-tax profit margin rose from 9.24 per cent in third quarter 2013 to 11.6 per cent in September 2014, underlying the improving profitability of the bank.

Adeola said the performance of the bank was driven by increasing brand acceptability as shown in its growing revenues and reduction in impairment charges.

He noted that the 41 per cent growth in profit before tax despite pressures on earnings arising from monetary policy changes was driven by improvements in revenues and a 30 per cent reduction in impairment charges.

According to him, interest income increased by 15 per cent, while interest expense declined by three per cent resulting in a 32 per cent growth in net interest income. The bank recorded a 20 per cent growth in total assets to N847 billion and a 19 per cent growth in deposits to N679 billion with a 100 basis points reduction in cost of funds to 4.9 per cent.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

33

MONEYLINK

Administrator challenges judiciary on online fraud

T

HE Administrator, National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice R.P.I Bozimo has called on the judiciary to be well prepared to tackle the challenges posed by electronic banking.

Speaking at the 14th National Seminar on Banking and Allied Matters for Judges held in Abuja and organised by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), he said the introduction of electronic banking system in the country came with its myriad of challenges.

Some of these challenges, he said, include malfunctioning of ATM machines, network failures, online theft and non-availability of financial services, payment of hidden

By Collins Nweze

costs of electronic banking such as short messages services (SMS) and other numerous hidden charges.

Other challenges, he said, are lack of disclosures, errors in operating the machines, lost or stolen ATM or debit cards.

In some cases, he insisted, billions of naira are lost electronically from customers’ accounts by third parties who are scammers. Fraud and money laundering are perpetrated through electronic transfers accentuated by trans-border banking.

Scammers steal customers’ identities, forge signatures and siphon depositors’ funds.

All these challenges, he said, usually lead to legitimate legal claims between the banks and customers, especially when they are occasioned by lack of cyber security. It is when these claims are presented in court for proper adjudication or determination, as the case may be, that the success and importance of this seminar is most evaluated and appreciated.

He said the the theme for this year’s seminar is “Banking in Nigeria in the Electronic Age: Pertinent Issues for the Judiciary.

This theme, he added, is fitting for two reasons. “The first reason is that the focus of the National Judicial Institute’s programmes for this year

is information and Communication Technology (ICT). The second reason is that electronic banking system in Nigeria has taken off full blast culminating in the cashless/ cash-lite policy of the Nigerian government. It can, therefore, be seen that there is no better choice of theme than the one we have and now is the most appropriate time for this discourse,” he said.

He said that while the National Judicial Institute is the intellectual arm of the Nigerian Judiciary, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria equally facilitates the intellectual and academic programmes of the banking profession in Nigeria.

Lagos trains auditors on forensic accounting certification

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HE Lagos State Government has begun a week-long training programme for auditors within its employ on fraud detection and forensic accounting procedure in order to enhance proper auditing of the state government accounts.

The programme, declared opened by the State Auditor-General, Mrs. Helen Deile at the Peninsula Resorts, Lekki at the weekend, was designed to further enhance accountability, integrity and transparency in the auditing system of Lagos state.

Deile said the training was timely, especially with the rampant cases of fraudulent acts all over the world, stressing the need to check this abnormal trend and possibly eradicate it.

According to her, the forensic accounting certification training was organised in collaboration with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), to build the capacity of the auditors in the State Auditor General’s office about trends in the accounting and audit-

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

ing profession.

Deile expressed hope that the week-long training would make participants better officers in their respective work schedule to deliver on government mandates than before.

She lauded the State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) for grant-

A

CCESS Bank Plc has further consolidated its position as a service focused bank by winning the “2014 Best Customer Service Company Award”. The award was presented to the bank by the Nigeria Customer Service Awards (NCSA) at a ceremony held in Abuja.

The bank won the coveted prize after beating several other contenders in the banking services category.

The award recognises the impressive achievement of the bank over the past year particularly as it relates to the bank’s delivery of supe-

Offer Price

AFRINVEST W. A. EQUITY FUND ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH BGL NUBIAN FUND BGL SAPPHIRE FUND CANARY GROWTH FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CORAL INCOME FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND FBN HERITAGE FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND

152.19 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.39 1,702.33 1,099.19 115.63 121.16 1,117.51 1.2241 1.2855 0.8238 1.0941

BETAGLAS

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

rior customer service experience at every of its location across Nigeria and Africa.

Speaking on the award, Executive Director, Access Bank Plc, Mrs. Ojini Olaghere said the award is a product of the bank’s investment in people and its processes which ensure that the bank’s customers are treated to excellent customer experience at every touch point.

“I want to assure you that Access Bank will not rest on its oars in delivering excellent service. This award will also spur us to meet and surpass our customers’ expectations and remain the bank of

F

RETAIL DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM (RDAS) Transaction Dates 20/10/2014 15/10/2014 13/10/2014 ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Inflation: September

8.3%

Monetary Policy Rate

12.0%

Amount Offered in ($) 500m 350m 350m

Amount Sold in ($) 499.93m 349.97m 349.96m

CBN EXCHANGE RATES November 3, 2014

Currency

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

154.78

155.78

CHANGE

Foreign Reserves

$39b

US Dollar

$97.9

Pounds Sterling

247.6944

249.2947

Euro

193.4286

194.6783

Swiss Franc

160.4104

161.4468

Yen

1.3617

1.3705

CFA

0.2764

0.2964

228.0521

229.5255

Yuan/Renminbi

25.2949

25.4592

Riyal

41.2582

41.5247

SDR

228.8113

230.2896

22.05

5.00

Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

NAHCO

4.83

5.00

3.52

Money Supply (M2)

COSTAIN

0.86

0.89

3.49

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

ABCTRANS

0.60

0.62

3.33

UBN

6.82

6.97

2.20

UBA

4.21

4.30

2.14

MBENEFIT

0.52

0.51

2.00

STERLNBANK

2.18

2.20

0.92

LOSERS AS AT 06-11-14

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

FO

194.75

175.77

-9.75

PZ

19.43

17.54

-9.73

ASHAKACEM

24.77

22.37

-9.69

TRANSCORP

3.41

3.08

-9.68

CHANGE

N16.42 trillion.

N17.2 trillion

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

15-10-14 Rate (%) Rate (%) 17-10-14

Overnight (O/N)

11.00

10.917

1M

12.464

12.393

3M

13.281

13.201

6M

14.205

14.110

FOREX RATES

IKEJAHOTEL

2.76

2.52

-8.70

DANGSUGAR

5.43

4.97

-8.47

R-DAS ($/N)

157.29

157.29

FIDELITYBK

1.80

1.65

-8.33

Interbank ($/N)

162.75

162.75

FBNH

9.96

9.26

-7.03

SKYEBANK

2.50

2.36

-5.60

Parallel ($/N)

167.50

167.50

17.82

16.90

-5.16

OANDO

By Alvin Afadama

ORMER head of state Chief Ernest Shonekan at the weekend, commissioned the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) Summit House in Lagos. The NESG, which was created to bridge the communication gap between the private and public sectors of the economy, is also meant to serve as advocacy group that advises the government on the ways to move the economy forward.

Chief Sonekan said the NESG which has been in existence for 21 years, has now expanded and made significant progress.

Chief Sonekan said there was a lot of mutual suspicions and communication gaps between the operators in the private and public sectors, prompting the creation of the NESG to help bridge that gap.

He further said he was proud of NESG achievements and also challenged other private sector groups to emulate what the body has achieved over the years. He noted that the private sector should not expect government to do everything for them as the country belongs to everyone and collective responsibility is needed to make it a better place for all.

The Minister, National Planning Commission (NPC) Dr. Abubakar Olarenwaju Sulaiman, said occasion signifies the formal transition of the NESG from infancy to greatness after two decades of existence.

“I am delighted that the NESG Summit House is being commissioned today. Let me start by expressing the National Planning Commission appreciation and commendation of the Chairman of the NESG, Mr Foluso Philips; the outgoing Director General of the NESG Mr Frank Nweke and the entire board of members of NESG for the role played in completing the project,” he said.

DATA BANK

21.00

C/PRICE

choice for all Nigerians,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, the Coordinator of NSCA, Dr. Aliyu Ilias, said the award was instituted to celebrate outstanding excellent service delivery across all sectors in the country.

“I want to seize this opportunity to congratulate the winners in this year’s edition; you have served Nigerians efficiently based on the data gathered from your service consumers and we hope this award will propel and motivate you to improve in the area of customer service.”

Bid Price 151.27 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.33 1,702.33 1,098.52 114.92 120.30 1,116.70 1.2163 1.2855 0.8089 1.0941

GAINERS AS AT 06-11-14

SYMBOL

tered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Mr. Abel Aig Asein responding, commended the several giant steps always taken by the state government by cueing into laudable initiatives. He commended the state government for being the first state in the federation to embrace the forensic accounting training programme.

Access Bank wins best customer service award

Name

• UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

ing approval for the In-house forensic accounting certification training programme for the auditors.

She also praised the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), while sorting for smoother relationship with the institute.

The Deputy Registrar, Technical Services of the Institute of Char-

NESG Summit House commissioned

WAUA

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

Oct. 28, 2014

Rates

T-bills - 91

10.10

T-bills - 182

10.22

T-bills - 364

10.30

Bond - 3yrs

11.52

Bond - 5yrs

11.55

Bond - 7yrs

12.13

34

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS INSURANCE

NIA pledges enforcement of insurers’ market agreement HE Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) would soon enforce market discipline by e ncouraging peer review among member companies with a view to aligning the market practice with international best practices.

This was disclosed by the newly inaugurated Chairman of the association, Godwin Wiggle at the ceremony marking his investiture as the 21st Chairman of the NIA, where he highlighted his vision for the association.

The association, he said, has commenced the implementation of a market agreement as a way of checking ethical breaches, promoting discipline and improving ser-

T

Stories by Omobola Tolu-Kusimo

vice standard in the market.

NIA market agreement, which stipulates infractions and penalties for inadequate pricing of risks, was signed by all the chief executive officers of NIA member companies in 2009, but it there are signs that members may have dumped the agreement because most of them don’t abide by it. No company has been sanctioned for failing to abide by the agreement even when companies break it.

Wiggle said Nigeria has the comparative advantage in the production of oil and gas, therefore, the association will fast-track the pro-

cess of re-establishing the oil & gas insurance pool to allow the industry reap the full benefit of the Nigerian Content Act. He also said the association will sustain the current effort at addressing those laws that are militating against the growth of the market, noting that the Companies Income Tax Amendment Act (CITA) 2007, amongst others, readily comes to mind.

Wiggle further stated that the association is appreciative of the efforts of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) in promoting micro-insurance to deepen insurance penetration in Nigeria.

He said: “My administration will take up the challenge of micro-in-

surance by encouraging member companies to institute corporate structures that will ensure the success of the initiative.

“We will also reach out to other regulators in the financial services sector whose oversight functions impact on our business. We will increase the support for the technical committees of the Association with a view to realising their potentials, which will be harnessed for the achievement of the overall goals of the Association while strengthening the cordial relationship that exists with other arms of the industry.”

President, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers

(NCRIB), Ayodapo Shoderu, in his goodwill message delivered by his Deputy, Kayode Okunoren, said the emergence of Wiggle as NIA Chairman will usher in the envisaged harmonious and progressive relationship between the association and the council.

He noted that the Nigerian insurance clients have become more demanding and sophisticated, hence the need for all operators to be more professional and cohesive in the delivery of services. “Irrespective of our professional divide, we must come to terms with the need to always collaborate in order to project a positive image and to collectively grow our industry,” he said.

Swiss Re profit rises by 14 % on lower catastrophe losses

S

• From left: Senior Counsellor Methodist Girls School, Mrs Offem Arit; Group Exchange Director, Royal Exchange Mr Auwalu Muktari; Representative of Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mr Kasim Mufutau and Head (Marketing) Royal Exchange Prudential Life, Mr Kunle Kasim, during the 7th annual Exchange Leadership conference for Secondary School Prefects in Lagos State.

PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN

A

PenOp aids pension remittances with EPCCOS

PENSION industry platform named Electronic Pension Contribution Collection System (EPCCOS) that will drive seamless pension remittances of employees’ contribution by employers under the contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), has been developed by the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp).

The EPCCOS platform is free for employers and will enable them comply with the scheme without difficulty. The platform is being tested with over 500 employers and will be formally launched for use by the public in January next year.

The Managing Director, UBA Pension Fund Custodian and Chairman subcommittee on EPCCOS, Bayo Yusuf, made this known in

Lagos at this year’s PENOP media partners retreat in Lagos. He said the pension operators are currently doing a pilot run on the platform with about 500 employers.

He said the platform developer and host is the Nigerian Inter Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), a company owned by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He said: “What we are doing with the employers now is for us to see whatever challenge an employer can encounter in the course of using the service. It is an industry application supported by the National Pension Commission (PenCom). The Commission has a

regulatory oversight to ensure standards are maintained and necessary things are being done. The next phase is for them to give us a national database so that the validation will be done immediately.”

Yusuf said the objective of the platform is to ensure seamless remittances, minimise reconciliation issues, timely crediting of employees’ Retirement Savings Account (RSA), and the elimination of employers’ burden of multiple schedule generation.

NIBSS Head Business Process Outsourcing Department, Samuel Oluyemi, said: “Just like we had the problem of unremitted dividends in the capital market, the problem that EPCCOS came to solve is that of unremitted pensions.”

Royal Exchange partners NGO on youth education, The Coordinator of the FoundaHE Royal Exchange Group leadership tion for Youth Education, Mr. Patrick said it is determined to instill

T

leadership qualities in Nigerian youth.

Its Managing Director, Mr. Chike Mokwunye, said it will go into partnership with a non-governmental organisation called Foundation for Youth Education, to accomplish the objective by conducting leadership training and conference for secondary school prefects in Lagos State.

He said his company’s decision to partner with the NGO, is motivated by an abiding sense of duty and patriotism to contribute to nurturing the Nigerian youth to be productive and responsible citizens.

A conference was held on November 5, at the College Hall, Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos, and it brought together over 800 secondary school

prefects from 40 schools across Lagos State.

He said the students attending the conference are already in positions of authority in their respective schools, and they want a situation where they will continue to be seen as examples for others to follow. “At the end of the training, we expect the prefects to be role models, ready to lead, and positively influence others around them,” Mokwunye added.

He continued: “The Royal Exchange brand is well known for its empathy and high sense of patriotism. This partnership reflects our belief in the potential of the Nigerian spirit and the ability of the Nigerian youth to soar and excel in their chosen fields when given the opportunity.”

Ajogwu, said the NGO was founded with the aim of instilling academic excellence, promoting qualitative education and leadership attitude.

Ajogwu said the aim of the conference, which is in its fourth edition, is to enable students start early by developing the necessary leadership skills, adding that it will also assist the pupils, counselling and giving them direction as they begin to make their career decisions.

Royal Exchange, which had previously sponsored the Nigerian Idol, has been sponsoring the School Leadership Conference for the past three years. It started operations in 1921 and continues to be driven by innovation and determination to offer services that are of exceptional value to its customers.

WISS Re, the world’s secondbiggest reinsurer, said its third-quarter profit has risen by 14 per cent after lower-than-expected losses from natural catastrophes.

Net income rose to $1.23 billion from $1.07 billion in the year-earlier period, the Zurich-based reinsurer said in a statement. That beat the $928.6 million average estimate of 13 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg.

Swiss Re is cutting back on catastrophe coverage and moving into new lines of business to bolster earnings growth as low interest rates and fewer natural disasters undercut prices. Munich Re, the world’s largest reinsurer, said third-quarter profit rose by 16 percent, while German rival Hannover Re reported a 21 percent increase for the period.

Chief Financial Officer David Cole said in the statement: “I’m pleased to report that all business units have again delivered solid performance during the third quar-

ter, contributing to an overall strong group result.

“This performance was supported by a lower-than-expected loss burden from natural catastrophes as well as a continued improvement in the life and health operating margin.”

Swiss Re has fallen about five percent this year, valuing the company at 29 billion Swiss francs ($29.8 billion). That compares with a 4.3 percent increase in the 32-company Bloomberg Europe 500 Insurance Index.

Swiss Re wants to invest $3 billion of its excess capital at an 11 per cent return on equity by next year.

It does not disclose how much of the capital it holds.

Reinsurers such as Swiss Re that help primary insurers cover the costs of damage claims from disasters like floods and hurricanes are under pressure from declining prices for their coverage and years-long slump in borrowing costs across developed countries.

Allianz raises payout, confirms target amid Pimco trouble

A

LLIANZ SE has pledged to pay a higher share of profit to shareholders and confirmed its full-year profit target as the Pimco asset management unit struggles to contain outflows following the departure of Bill Gross.

“Starting with the financial year 2014, the intention is to propose an increased regular payout to Allianz shareholders of 50 percent of net income,” the Munich-based company said in a statement. That compares with a pay-out ratio of 40 per cent at Europe’s biggest insurer in the past.

Investors have pulled billions of dollars from Pacific Investment Management Company’s funds since the September 26 announcement that Gross, who was chief investment officer and co-founded Pimco more than four decades ago, was joining Denver-based Janus Capital Group Inc. Pimco, based in Newport Beach, California, suffered 49.2 billion euros ($60.9 billion) in client redemptions in the third quarter, Allianz said. Most of the outflows occurred in the last week of September.

The asset manager said clients pulled $27.5 billion in October from its biggest mutual fund.

“Net outflow development after the resignation of Bill Gross is within our expectation,” Chief Financial Officer Dieter Wemmer said in the statement. “Our un-

changed outlook for the full year 2014 and the newly established multi-year dividend policy are visible demonstration of management confidence about the future of Allianz.”

Allianz’s net income climbed 11 per cent to 1.61 billion euros in the third quarter. That compared with an average estimate of 1.57 billion euros in a Bloomberg survey of 13 analysts. Operating profit at the asset-management unit, which includes Pimco and Allianz Global Investors, fell five per cent to 694 million euros.

The insurer had been expected to pay 6.20 euros a share for this year, according to the Bloomberg Dividend Forecast. Allianz has promised investors to update them on payouts before year-end. It paid 5.30 euros a share as dividend for 2013, or 40 percent of profit.

Allianz said it will “evaluate and pay out the unused budget earmarked for external growth every three years.” The first such evaluation will take place at the end of 2016. Payouts won’t be allowed to push the insurer’s Solvency II ratio, a measure of financial stability, below 160 per cent, Allianz said.

Allianz shares have declined 2.8 percent this year, valuing the company at about 58 billion euros. The Bloomberg Europe 500 Insurance Index has risen 4.3 percent during the same period.

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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THE NATION

BUSINESS JOBS

•A Chocolate factory

The Federal Government is inching closer to achieving its goal of creating at least 390,000 jobs in the cocoa sub-sector. The development, which is music to the ears of operators of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in cocoa processing and farmers, is coming on the heels of the government’s latest repositioning of agriculture to claim a greater share of the annual $200b global market for finished goods made from cocoa, reports Assistant Editor CHIKODI OKEREOCHA.

New vistas for cocoa sub-sector B

ETTER days are here for existing and prospective farmers, particularly cocoa farmers. Last Monday, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga, raised the adrenalin of cocoa farmers with the announcement that it would implement expansion projects in cocoa processing and manufacturing. This, according to the Minister, is in the hope of claiming a greater share of the global market for finished goods made from cocoa estimated at $200 billion annually.

Aganga, who spoke at the Nigerian Cocoa Value Addition Summit 2014, in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), said the government was repositioning to extract immense value from the cocoa industry. He pointed out that with the expansion of cocoa processing and manufacturing capacity, the government hopes to create jobs and wealth for citizens and generate income.

Such hopes are not without basis. According to Aganga, the global value of exporting raw cocoa is approximately $10 billion a year; the total value from chocolates alone, all made from cocoa, is over $100 billion a year, while the total value of all finished goods

• To create about 390,000 jobs made from cocoa is estimated to be as high as $200 billion a year. All of them from the same $10 billion raw cocoa beans produced.

But it was not so much the monetary value, which the government hopes to derive from cocoa, that excited participants at the summit. Rather, it was the promise of job opportunities, which the latest repositioning holds for existing and prospective operators of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in cocoa processing and farmers. It is also the beginning of a new dawn for independent farm-

ers, who work on contract. The independent farmers are those engaged by beverage companies to grow cocoa for them for a fee.

For instance, as the Executive Vice Chairman, Multi Trex Integrated Foods Plc, Mr. Dimeji Owofemi, said the cocoa industry is the panacea to employment generation in the country. He said there is a multiplier effect when the produce is taken from farmland to factories, rather than from farmland to the port in the raw form. He was referring to the immense opportunities in cocoa processing.

‘Traders do not create jobs; it is the farmers and factories that create jobs. The traders are going to do their business alone, but in the factory, you have at least 50 people for the smallest size. At a point we have about 116. Now if you have 10 factories, each with 300 people, it means you have employed 3,000 people’

“Traders do not create jobs, it is the farmers and factories that create jobs. The traders are going to do their business alone, but in the factory, you have at least 50 people for the smallest size. At a point we have about 116. Now if you have 10 factories, each with 300 people, it means you have employed 3,000 people. Those are the people that are directly involved.

Aside this, you still have those that are not involved in production such as casual workers and people who trade semi finish product that we do,” Owofemi said.

Under the new push to get the best from the cocoa value chain, Mr. Owofemi said cocoa farmers and operators of processing factories are the people to pay attention to. “If you take care of those two, all will be well. But if we neglect those two, we are shooting ourselves in the foot as a country,” he said.

Owofemi is right. Several cocoa processing factories expected to spring up from the new focus on cocoa sub-sector would provide employment opportunities to professionals such as account officers who •Continued on page 36

36

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

JOBS

New vistas for cocoa sub-sector •Continued from page 35

hold National Certificate in Education (NCE), Polytechnic diplomas or University degrees in Economics or Accountancy. Nigerians with diplomas and degrees in electrical or electronic engineering, with emphasis on courses that include control and modules for instrumentation will also be employed as technicians.

Such technicians will assemble, install, repair, and test industrial chillers, refrigerators, heaters, ventilators and air conditioners. They will also diagnose malfunctioned systems, apparatus, components and locate the cause of breakdown and repair them.

This is aside from keeping temperatures in the processing, packaging of finished goods and their storage within specifications.

That is not all. Diploma or degree holders in electrical or electronic engineering will have cause to smile, working as system managers. The lucky Nigerian system managers will plan, coordinate, and direct computerrelated activities in the organisation. They will also determine the information technology goals of such organisations and are responsible for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

Other mouth-watering employment opportunities include instrumentation and control technicians, control and instrumentation superintendents, drivers, caterers, etc.

The government seems to be aware of the exciting career opportunities in the sub-sector, which is why the latest repositioning effort appears to be more encompassing.

Aganga said: “With the situation today, about 76 per cent of total cocoa produced is from Africa, but less than five per cent of the wealth in the value chain is retained here.

After many decades of dominating cocoa production, it is worrying that we still remain price takers, and capture so little value. This is not right, and this is what we have set out to change”.

Part of that change was the disclosure by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, that his mMinistry was working with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment on a memo on value chain that would unlock the cocoa sector.

Adesina said the memo would be presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC). Also, the government, he said, had provided 1.4 million pods of high breed cocoa to farmers, free of charge within two years, a gesture that had increased cocoa

•Cocoa Beans on driers

•Dr. Aganga

•Adesina

output from 250,000 metric tonnes (mt) to 370,000 mt.

Stating that the production of cocoa would be increased to 600,000 metric mt by 2016, the Minister disclosed that it generated $1.2 billion revenue in 2013 as against $900 million it generated in 2012. He said this year,

cocoa is expected to rake in about $1.3 billion.

To boost the production of cocoa, Adesina said the ministry was planning to set aside about N100 billion as Cocoa Development Fund aimed at making Nigeria a global powerhouse in cocoa production. He explained

that the fund would be raised through public-private partnership to transform the sector.

Besides, the Nigerian Cocoa Research Institute (NCRI) had released eight new cocoa hybrids with the Federal Government doling out 1.4 million cocoa pods to farmers in cocoa producing states of the country. The interventions, which are aimed at restoring Nigeria to its glorious position of the largest cocoa producer in the world, are seen as major boosts to those wishing to venture into cocoa farming and processing.

The present administration’s Cocoa Transformation Agenda (Coc.TA) had earlier set the target to raise national cocoa production output to at least, 500,000 MT by 2015 and achieve 1.0 million mt in 2018 through sustainable production systems by maintenance of existing farms, rehabilitation of old plantations and expansion programmes through intensification and good agricultural practices.

It also hopes to improve the livelihood of, at least, 100,000 farmers by increasing the yield per hectare and income by $450 every year in 250,000 farm households in cocoa producing states over the next four years.

Besides, the Coc.TA hopes to create at least 390,000 jobs from the sub-sector by doubling production, increasing processing capacity of factories, establishing and strengthening of SMEs to produce fast moving consumer cocoa products from cocoa and its by-products.

It also targets to improve cocoa marketing in the states presently producing and/or with the potential to produce cocoa.

CAREER MANAGEMENT

Are you not supposed to be employed by now?

A

RE you still wondering why you have not yet se cured your dream job? Or even worse, why you are not even being called in for a job interview by the recruitment agency let alone the employer?

Well, have you taken a step back and looked at the package that you are offering zand how you are presenting it? Maybe your offering is just not packaged together correctly which is why you are continuously being overlooked, even though you just know you are the right person for that job.

With the unofficial unemployment rate in Nigeria standing at over 30 per cent, there are millions of un-employed Job Seekers scouting the marketplace for their ideal job, and even more employed professionals applying for the same jobs, it is imperative that you take every effort of going above and beyond to ensure that you stand out from the crowds.

Let’s start by considering the basics, your resume

By Olu Oyeniran

Clean up your resume and ensure that your it is professionally puttogether with no typographical, spelling or grammatical errors.

Make sure that the layout and format conforms to that of a professional resume. Your strengths and key skills – as they relate specifically to the job that you are applying to – should be clearly highlighted and visible at a glance at the off-set. Be sure not to make silly mistakes that can get you eliminated even before the short-list stage. Go through your resume to ensure that you have covered all essential aspects that make up a professional resume.

Next, develop a professionallywritten application When applying for a job opening, please extend the recruiter the courtesy of ensuring that your skills do, in fact, meet the minimum requirements that he has setout in the job advertisements. Do

not apply to job advertisements that you are not suitably qualified for as this wastes both your time and that of the recruiter.

If you do believe that you closely match the requirements and skills contained in the job advertisement, then be sure to create a professional, top self-selling customised application, sometimes referred to as cover-note (not a standard one-size-fits-all) that is addressed to the hiring manager (not personnel/human resource dept), if possible, and that refers to the job title and where you saw the job advertised and on which date.

Then immediately get to the point and explain briefly why your skills best match the job and why you should be considered. End off by thanking the recruiter for their time. Be sure to include any relevant documentation or information that the recruiter might have asked for in the job advertisement. (see more on this at www.jobsearchhow.com) Finally, present yourself in the

most professional manner Should you be fortunate enough to secure an interview either with a recruitment agency or the employer directly, be sure that the product (you) matches the brochure (your resume) in the most professional manner. Be mindful of your interview manners but most importantly, dress appropriately for the job interview. Remember to prepare to dazzle in the job interview by researching the company, understanding the job requirements and knowing your strengths and how to communicate these effectively and in context to the job that you are being interviewed for.

Consider carefully the type of interview body language that you are giving off and be careful to avoid - as far as possible - making any of the common job interview mistakes. Come prepared with a set of interview questions yourself. Job seekers who attend a job interview with a well prepared set of interviewee questions are al-

ways most successful.

Remember, every job interview is an employment opportunity.

Should you be called back for a second interview, take just as much time preparing for the second job interview as you would on the initial meeting. When getting a call back for a second job interview ask the interviewer if there is anything that you specifically need to prepare for.

Without being over confident, attend your second job interview with the same intention as you did the first. Carry yourself with poise and professionalism.

One more thing, remember that the best way to prepare is by anticipating securing your dream job.

Good luck. Now go and secure that dream job now!

•Oyeniran is Lead Consultant, EkiniConsult & Associates. He can be reached on Jobsearchhow.com.ng Tel 08083843230 (SMS Only).

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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THE CEO The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Institute of Business Development (IBD), Mr. Paul Ikele, says Nigeria is yet to leverage on her resource endowment and population to become globally competitive. He regrets the focus on politics at the detriment of the economy. Most operators of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which should help put the economy on the path of sustainable growth, he argues, are weighed down by lack of business development plan and dearth of critical infrastructure.

In this interview with CHIKODI OKEREOCHA, Ikele says the nation’s dream of being one of the top 20 economies in the world by 2025 is, however, achievable “if we are focused.”

Excerpts:

•Ikele

‘Most SME operators not competent’ H

OW would you assess the pace of Nigeria’s economic development? Is the economy on course?

Nigeria, like any other emerging economy, is bound to have some hiccups here and there.

But, if we are focused we will identify the key areas we need to work on like provision of infrastructure, which will assist the economy to bounce back. And of course, you know Nigeria is operating a mixed economic system, which means we are mixing command economy and market economy. And in the mixed economy of course, price will keep rising depending on the cost of production and to that extent the supply may not meet up with the demand because of the scarce resources.

For example, in a mixed economy, for you to be able to put up a particular product you need some infrastructure to be able to produce, like power.

A lot of organisations need to power their industries to enable them continue to produce and the electricity is not there. You must operate with a generator and must buy fuel, and these also increase your cost of production. At the end of the day, you have to calculate your cost of production to determine the price you want to sell your products. Because you are not sure of who will buy at the price you have fixed, so you limit your production until you have identified those who will buy at that price you want to sell to enable you cover your cost

of production. There is also the political dispensation.

Considering the factors, would you say Nigeria’s dream of emerging as one of the top 20 economies by 2025 is achievable?

Yes, of course! Although, most of them that are there had a long term plan and they worked towards it. But there are lots of issuespolitical, tribal and things like that. By the grace of God we will achieve it. Recently, I was in a programme in the United Kingdom (UK) where it was actually mentioned that Nigeria can attain the position of one of the top 20 economies by 2025 and can favourably compete with Japan and other developed economies. One, because of our resources, our population, and the opportunities that Nigeria has.

Is Nigeria taking the advantage of her population and resource endowment to achieve that goal?

Yes, we are. Its only that the political situation is not helping matters. Right now, the economy is drifting. The focus is now on politics. It shouldn’t have been like that. In fact, politics should not change the economy by 10 or 20 per cent, but right now politics is almost taking 50 per cent and because of that we are losing focus. Nigeria has almost stopped production waiting for the result of the coming elections. That is wrong. We should differentiate between economic system and politics; let politics be solely on administration and then the economy should drive itself based on the activities and the factors that promote that economy.

Of course, 2025 is by the corner, about six years now, a lot of things can still happen if we are focused. Even if its not achieved, at least, we can make 50-60 per cent progress. It is achievable all things being equal.

‘The political situation is not helping matters. Right now, the economy is drifting. The focus now is on politics. It shouldn’t have been. In fact, politics should not change the economy by 10 or 20 per cent; but right now politics is almost taking 50 per cent and because of that we are losing focus. Nigeria has even almost stopped production waiting for the result of the coming elections’

Much has been said on the need to attract more investments. Would you say enough efforts are being made to that effect?

When I was in the UK, some groups from India and China were asking some key questions about investments in Nigeria because they saw that there are a lot of resources Nigeria has, which their country does not have.

Of course, the investments are coming, both local and foreign, because Nigeria operates an open system. There are also lots of Nigerian investors like Dangote, who is investing in Kenya’s oil industry. Again, because of global issues, people are being attracted to do business with Nigeria no matter the security and other challenges we have.

Why is the economy not globally competitive? What are the major challenges?

Nigeria is a growing economy. If you see the ratio of our development, let’s say between the rich and the poor, there is still a gap; we don’t have a middle class unlike the developed countries. Go to countries like the United States (US) and the UK there is a middle class.

The middle class has people that are focused, they don’t even want to be rich. These are people, who even when they marry, do not even want to have children, they just want to work.

They are people, who after going to school want to travel out with other things entirely •Continued on page 38

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THE CEO

‘Most SME operators not competent’ •Continued from page 37

on their minds. But in our situation if you are not up there you must be down there. So, because of that the economy is not moving at the speed that is expected. It has made some people to be gullible and greedy. It has even turned some people into criminals because they want to make it at all cost. Some get involved in advanced fee fraud, otherwise known as ‘419’, whereas they would have walked the ladder and get there.

So, the problem is that the middle class is difficult to sustain. For the middle class to be sustained there has to be a standard arrangement so that people will stop day-dreaming.

For instance, in Nigeria you see all kinds of cars. Nigeria is like a dumping ground for all kinds of cars, there are no controls. Our tax system should have been used to control the influx of some of these goods and services.

Our tax should have been the focus of government. As at today, a lot of funds are being wasted. In fact, the waste in Nigeria is huge. It is part of the hindrance to our economic development.

What is responsible for the sudden disappearance of the middle class?

Because of the economic values Nigeria has, which is, if you are not rich nobody cares for you. The government has not really done much to encourage the middle class. I don’t know how many people in Nigeria are satisfied with what they are getting. When you want to be satisfied, you face problems either from security issues or from religion, or from government, or from where you are coming from.

That is why some people, who were at the middle class, before you knew it they came down to zero class; looking for a way to even survive, which is wrong.

The government should have worked so hard to encourage the middle class. You must have a plan and a focus of what you want to do and how you want to do it. And when you fail, you should do an evaluation to find out why you didn’t get there, what caused it and analyse those causes. Failing is not the issue, rising is. But in most cases people cannot even rise because they don’t know why they failed.

If plans are put in place, the middle class will return. All hands must be on deck to achieve it because it is at the middle class that you have the three basic things-food, shelter and clothing.

How can the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector be supported to grow?

The SME sector is very important. In fact, China started when they closed the wall. Chinese said they want to determine whether they want to survive or not. They call it ‘sachet businesses’ or ‘sachet marketing’. They live in cottage system where they can buy and use what they can afford. And again, its better to start business small and grow big. Identify your core market requirements within your environment, provide those needs, provide the products and services and ensure that people within that area are able to buy them.

An SME does not require large capital, it operates within a short-term plan, not a longterm plan. But in our own scenario, most of them are opportunists because they want to catch up and use the money for long-term planning. That is why most of them have no direction. Like I keep saying, SMEs need to come up with business development plans. Before a company is incorporated, that company will come out with a business development plan.

Before you open an account for a limited liability company you should submit a business development plan, and government will key into it and follow it up. If at any point that business does not achieve that objective, it is quietly withdrawn. By so doing, government will be able to identify those people that are performing and those that are not performing.

You see, most people move into the SME sector because they don’t have any other alternative. SMEs of course, can assist in turning around the economy, because I can assure you that if you are in SME you know exactly what you are producing and already have grown a market share in that particular business. You will be able to identify your key customers and only focus on servicing them. Before you start a business you should be able to identify the business needs, who your key customers are and satisfy them. Some of the SMEs will

•Ikele

‘SMEs need to come up with business development plans. Before a company is incorporated, it has to come out with a business development plan. Before you open an account for a limited liability company you should submit its business development plan, and government will key into it and follow it up’ convince the banks dubiously or otherwise, and once they have the money, like N2 million, they disappear. They will use the money to import one big car, or go and take a title or marry more wives. This is why the Institute is insisting that every organisation should come out with a business development plan.

In other words, the problem of SMEs is not so much about the lack of access to funds, but the lack of bankable business development plan?

The first problem is that people, who are interested in SMEs, are not competent in that business. They don’t have real intentions in that business; their intention is to use the money for other objectives. Two, who are the professionals that draw the business plans?

First of all, you do an environmental scanning because businesses that thrive in the south may not thrive in the north, but most of them will just go and copy a business plan thinking if you are selling pure water in Lagos, for instance, you can sell it in the north, after all north has a hot weather.

So, before you do a business plan, you must do an environmental scanning. SME is one of the best businesses to get involved in. Every family can get involved in SMEs. Families can get involved in bakeries, for instance. A group or an organisation can do it. Most SME operators are incompetent people, who just want to use it to do other things and because they know how to get funds they get the money and before you know it they channel it to other areas. If it is properly directed SME is a very good business. It has helped other economies to survive.

How do we solve some of the problems you mentioned with regards to SMEs? All the players like the banks and government agencies involved in it must identify and do a thorough investigation of who needs these SMEs and for what purpose. There must be a proper business plan, which must be approved or authenticated by a standard professional organisation like the Institute of Business Development (IBD). Another thing about the Institute is that we have a code of conduct that if you err your certificate will be withdrawn and we are independent. If the right things are

done, the result will come over sometime. But Nigerians are rather in a haste, you want to start business today and make profit tomorrow. No, lay a good foundation.

What about infrastructure, which operators complain about?

What is infrastructure? Infrastructure is equipment, roads, electricity, etc. That was why I told you that the cost of production in Nigeria is on the high side. This is because individuals are providing electricity by themselves and the cost of maintenance will definitely affect the price because it will increase their cost. For a good business you should be able to cover your cost and determine your profit. Some people who get involved in SMEs do not do a social plan. But people don’t do that. They say I am the director, I don’t even earn salary, but any money made they will just withdraw and use it as if its their own. At the end of the day the money disappears and the business suffers. So, to get round it like you said, a good plan should be made, competent hands should be sought and you must do your environmental scanning to know whether the business can survive in that environment. Its not because A is doing business and he is surviving that B must survive because A is different from B. So, you must find out that business you think you have the competence in.

The price of Nigeria’s crude in the international market has been dropping in recent times. Is this a cause for worry?

No. Why should we be worried? What about the global warming? What about the ozone layer that is cracking? You see nothing is static.

For example, Nigeria had palm kernel, cocoa, groundnut pyramids why did they disappear?

Is it not because of global changes when they discovered that oil can give more than what you get from those agro-allied businesses. The moment oil came everybody keyed into it and technology changed and with time or at a stage in the circle, that oil could move into another thing. All you needed is that the time you had oil, just like the dream Joseph had in the Bible when he told Egypt that it will have seven years of bumper harvest and seven years of famine, we should have been intelligent

enough to use that oil to provide sustainable development. And then look at our core areas like agro-allied business, because as long as we live we need to survive, there is no human being who doesn’t eat food. So, if we had used that oil money to improve our palm oil, cocoa, groundnut and so many other resources, even if there is no oil again we will still plan and work like any other developed economy.

The United States (US) has a large storage of oil because it planned. The same for Germany and the United Kingdom (UK). In fact, I went to a place in the UK, they have an advanced farming system which looks at how the production of that farm for the next 20 years will be sustainable. But here we don’t have such plan. Let me give you another scenario. During the Tsunami in Thailand do you know that they discovered that rice production will drop in the nest five years. And what did they do? They came out with zero interest rate, encouraging farmers to go into core rice production. And Nigeria knows that rice is one of our major importations. What did we do?

Here the contractors were waiting and planning how they could siphon money from the government. You see, we should key into a global thing. We should be very committed to communication. When others are planning we should equally plan. Not when others are planning we will be sleeping. When China, Indonesia and others knew that because of global crisis there was going to be a shortage in food production they started planning and then cut us off and then our rice skyrocketed.

Look at how Nigeria treated the Ebola issue.

Didn’t we survive it? We did. If we waited until America will come up with a particular vaccine, which we can use people would have been dying. Why can’t we look inward? This oil & gas that we are still flaring can’t we domestic it in Nigeria? How many Nigerian homes are using gas to cook? How many industries are using electricity? Nigeria has almost 200 million population, if Nigeria can sustain this by providing goods and services things will be better. We should stop looking outside; let us look inward. That was what China did. Today China’s economy is outgrowing America’s economy. So we should be asking what can we use our oil to do? What can we use our gas to do? We have a large span of land, we have human resources, we have engineers, we have professionals across boards. Can’t we begin to look inward? Can we use that oil and sustain our own industries and use it and create our own economic value, that will increase the naira value so that naira can equitably compete with the dollar? But rather we are looking outside where we want to export our crude oil, they process it and send back to us at a very high margin thereby making our naira to be zero. Nigerians are gullible. These people are not interested in the development of our economy because we have the resources to turn around our economy by ourselves.

The institute is organising a business development week. Why the summit at this time?

Our Institute believes that business development is a key need of any economic development. Seeing what happens globally we thought that there is need for the Institute to come out with a business development week where we can look inward to review the business development segment of our economic system and review what impacts they made.

The idea came up at the time I was at the ‘UK Week’ where a paper was presented and Nigeria was seriously criticised, that nothing good comes out of Nigeria. So, we think we should discuss our problems here in Nigeria so, we invited people who have developed to come and participate with us, support us, give us their ideas, not discussing it outside Nigeria. That is the essence of the business development week and it is an annual event, we want to be running it every year. Again, business development cuts across all economic systems. Business development is in all kinds of businesses whether profit making or no one-profit making so people should key into it and be focused in their business segment and business plan to be able to use the competent hands in driving it and then the result will come.

What should participants expect?

We have a lot of themes. The Business Development Week is going to run for three days starting from 12th to 14th November 2014.

The theme of course, is ‘Business Development in Africa: Emerging issues for Strategic Action’ and the papers are going to look at the new Africa, the new frontiers, the new opportunities that we can get in Africa. As I have told you, Africa is highly endowed, Nigeria is endowed, Ghana is endowed, but let’s look at those opportunities. So, we are going to look at those opportunities. We are going to look at regional integration as a tool for Africa’s business development.

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BUSINESS MOTORING

Weststar Associates Limited, the authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria has introduced the new Mercedes-Benz Vario into the market, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

Mercedes-Benz introduces VarioTow-truck

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HE Mercedes-Benz Vario ar rives once again into the Ni gerian commercial vehicles market, but in a different variation - thanks to the authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria, Weststar Associates Limited.

The Vario is a commercial van which offers a very extensive scope for individuality as well as the use of special-purpose bodies. Now available, at Weststar, is the Mercedes-Benz 814DA 4x4 TowTruck.

This Vario Tow-Truck is powered by an OM 904 LA 4-cylinder Euro 3 diesel engine at 177 hp. It comes with several equipment like the Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Rear underride protection EEC, an under frame reinforced stabilizer rear axle, CD radio, a single-pole battery main switch, a 24 V/starter 24 V Electric equipment, Co-driver’s Cab S23 double seat and a wide angle exterior mirror on the front passenger side.

Other features include a 90— litre main tank, Halogen fog lamps, a left and right revolving yellow flasher on the cab roof, Cruise control for manual transmission, a Linear speed limiter of 90km per hour and a spare lifting device under the end of the frame.

It comes standard with a skid lift/ hydraulic ejector, a hydraulic lifting arm with hydraulic extension and is fully tiltable on load operation. The sub-frame is made of very fine-grained steel, resulting in a very flat lifting arm. A 3.6 ton winch is mounted on the arm, and works with a 2-speed manual freewheel.

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The Vario

The Vario Towtruck has a lot to offer in terms of accessories i.e. side markers with LED technology, a tool box with illumination,

S GAC Motor’s new flagship model, the GS5 Super carries with it the strategic mission of making an impact in the SUV market.

The GS5 Super was launched at the Oriental Sports Centre in Shanghai of China penultimate week.

At the launch conference, GAC Motor Director and General Manager, Song Wu was upbeat about the future of the SUV. GAC Motor is the first auto company to make official market launch at the Crown on the Sea, a popular name of Oriental Sports Centre, announcing to the world that China now owns a world-class auto brand.

Wu gave an in-depth explanation of the positioning and mission of the GS5 Super and its meaning to the GAC Motor brand.

He pointed out that Chinese President Xi Jinping recently called upon China’s literature and art circles to truly address the issue of ‘who should be served’, which is also of great guidance value for the auto industry.

and Flyer with two LED work lights mounted on it, to name a few.

More to offer is the impressive hydraulic system which has overload valves, sandwich hydraulic valves, a hydraulic 2-circuit system which includes a dual-circuit pump, and integrated hydraulic filter and tank. There is also a sepa-

rate relay and fuse box for additional power supply and fuse, plus a 12 + 24 V Jump-starting facility and cable.

The Vario stands out as not only boasting easy handling, and an extremely comfortable workplace, but also the advantages of a Van and the strengths of a light duty truck, which ultimately gives it a special

Chinese firm aims high

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

To him, a clear stance must be taken to build a world-class auto brand.

GAC Motor is sticking to the philosophy of “Make Cars for the Family” rather than blindly pursuing economic returns from the market or become a slave of the market.

Right from its founding, the firm showed great courage and wisdom of “daring to be the first under heaven” in directly entering the medium- and high-end market to compete with joint venture brands, winning high praise from the industry.

The GS5 Super was developed on a European high-performance platform. In terms of driving fun and five-star safety, it carries forward the perfect DNA of the GAC Motor

family. As for power assembly technology, the GS5 Super is the first to offer the golden power combination of a 1.8T engine and 7speed G-DCT automated manual transmission, known as T+7speed. This gives GAC MOTOR a solid foundation to win over joint venture brands in terms of core technology.

“The GS5 Super is the work of our latest R&D efforts. Technologically advanced, it will directly compete with some joint venture brands.

We believe that GAC Motor will keep abreast with and even overtake joint venture brands,” Wu said.

As the only Chinese auto brand with a firm footing in the medium- and high-end market, the firm faces competitions from Japanese and Korean auto brands. In the first three quarters of 2014, it sold 75,000 cars, up by 41 per cent

position in the Van segment.

Weststar has fully equipped workshops and highly skilled technicians to help maintain MercedesBenz vehicles and ensure their longevity in service.

year-on-year, far overtaking what joint venture brands have achieved.

“In a matter of only several years, we have established GAC Motor’s GPS production mode. If we copied the Honda or Toyota model word by word, there would be no GAC Motor today,” he said.

Meanwhile, GAC MOTOR has established strategic partnerships with the world’s TOP 10 auto suppliers including BOSCH, Continental and TRW. The world-class supporting parts fully ensure the R&D level and product quality of GAC Motor. The GS5 Super is precisely a masterpiece work of GAC Motor’s forward development based on its global R&D network.

With the GAC Motor model, Wu is confidence of the future of the company’s products. “GAC Motor is changing itself and is making breakthroughs. We have created topquality products in complete accordance with the latest international standards. But, we will not stop here. Rather, we will continue to go ahead,” Wu stated.

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MOTORING Kia unveils locally assembled Rio

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IA Motors Nigeria has unveiled its Made-in-Nigeria vehicles at the just concluded Abuja International Auto Fair at the Eagle Square in Abuja with N1.98 milion price tag.

Delivering to its brand slogan of “The Power to Surprise,” the auto giant said the unveiling is in fulfillment of the promise made to Nigerians that the locally assembled KIA will be available before the end of the year.

The Made-in-Nigeria KIA vehicles, which included the Rio, Cerato and Optima were unveiled

by Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide.

Oloye Akinjide, who later had a test drive of the Optima, expressed joy and congratulated KIA Motors for the feat.

She described the car as “the People’s Car”.

Upon exiting the car after the test drive, the Minister said “Wow, Beautiful ride, Very smooth…..this is a Great Car” and she was thrilled with admiration for the KIA SOUL by saying the model is “incredibly built to complement the youth and the women”.

The flagship model of Kia, the Quoris also caught the flair of the minister when she was shown around the luxury sedan by Mr. Sandeep Malhotra.

The stylish compact Rio, Optima and Cerato with thoroughly contemporary and distinctive styling, coupled with maximum versatility and cutting-edge safety and convenience features are truly innovative cars.

KIA staying true to its commitments offers full style and curvaceous elegance that perfectly captures the glamour of the present. The award-winning cars are engineered and designed to be an expression of individuality. Loaded with smart technologies, generous levels of convenience and safety equipment, they are as dependable and practical as they are desirable and distinctive.

Porsche replaces lock bracket

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S a precautionary measure, Porsche is replacing the lock bracket on the front lid of 4428 two-door sports cars worldwide.

This is because for some vehicles of the 911 Carrera, Boxster and Cayman model series, it is not possible to guarantee that the bracket meets the specifications in the long term.

However, to date there have not been any incidents (such as unintentional opening of the front lid).

The problem was discovered during in-house quality checks and was immediately corrected. The owners of the precisely identified vehicles will be contacted directly by their responsible Porsche dealer.

•From left: BKG Exhibitions Chief Executive Officer Mr Ifeanyi Agwu; Minister of State for FCT, Abuja, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide; FCT Secretary of Transport, Mr Jonathan Ivoke and CFAO Motors General Manager, Marketing, Mr Toyin Akigbogun at CFAO Motors stands during Abuja Auto Fair in Abuja.

BMWbuildsstreetlightswithelectriccar-chargingsockets

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MW has developed street lights equipped with sockets to charge electric cars, it said on Friday, and will run a pilot project in Munich next year that uses existing local authority lighting networks.

BMW said it has made two prototype “Light and Charge” street lights which combine efficient Light Emitting Diodes (LED) with the company’s ChargeNow recharging stations for electric cars.

“Seamless charging infrastructure is essential if we want to see more electric vehicles on the road in our cities in the future,” Peter

Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, said.

The Munich pilot will install the first charging lights, which can be grafted straight onto the existing local authority street lighting infrastructure, BMW said.

These additional charging stations can be used by as many drivers as possible, regardless of vehicle model and electricity provider, BMW said.

Two street lights are already installed in front of the BMW headquarters. Drivers will be able to pay to charge their cars via a mobile

phone app.

BMW has developed some of the most advanced electric cars, including the i3 city vehicle and i8 hybrid. But electric cars as a product category have struggled to gain widespread popularity due to their limited operating range, the scarcity of charging stations and the time it takes to recharge them.

BMW and other car makers are increasingly expanding their knowhow of electric cars and related technology that could broaden their appeal.

In addition to developing street lighting, BMW has already in-

vested into software and applications that help drivers of electric cars find a parking space and charging stations, including investments into Justpark.com and the SLAM charging network.

BMW executives recently met with rival Tesla Motors to discuss the availability of electric vehicle charging stations.

In September, Daimler said it had bought mytaxi and RideScout, two smartphone applications that will help the maker of Mercedes-Benz limousines provide services to people who do not own cars.

Chevrolet Trailblazer shines at Auto Fair

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HE latest model of Chevrolet Trailblazer Sport Utility Vehicle solely distributed by CFAO Motors in Nigeria, asserted its dominance at the Abuja Motor Fair. It also marked 10 years of Chevrolet’s impressive back to back appearance at the annual automobile festival in the federal capital city, having debuted in 2004.

As the star SUV of the motor show, Chevrolet Trailblazer was prominently positioned at the pavilion of CFAO Intermotors, a division of CFAO Motors whilst visitors took turns to appreciate its body, engine compartment, the dashboard, the classy interiors and several other ensembles of the vehicle. The general conclusion of the visitors at the fair was that it is the SUV to have, being a lifestyle, family, business and all-roads automobile.

The Trailblazer has a 6-speed automatic with a sequential shift override, a very smooth gearbox and remarkable performance-based fuel

Stories by Tajudeen Adebanjo

economy. Its excellent visibility and large mirrors, double wishbone front and Five-Link coil spring rear suspension ensure that its driving power remains in the hand of the driver. It is fitted with 245/70R18 tyres, four-wheel disc brakes to deal with the necessity of a sudden stop.

The body is made up of large dual-port grille, carved bumpers, clamshell hood, flowing side crease, wide-floodlight headlamps, power windows and wiper stalks.

The 7-seater SUV has a noiseless 2.8 litre engine with 200 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. This power is unequalled in its category anywhere in Nigeria.

Confirming the notable presence of Trailblazer at the fair ground, the Head of Intermotors Division of CFAO Motors, Mr Ladi Abiodun said the Trailblazer was specially positioned for Nigerians who do not want to bother about any transpor-

tation problem.

“Whether the road is smooth or rough, whether traffic is light or heavy, whether the destination is far or near, Chevrolet Trailblazer delivers with pleasurable comfort and

assured safety. Having introduced the SUV to Nigerians a few months ago, we have a few units left which visitors to our pavilion could pick at a good discount during the motor show only,” Abiodun said.

Stallion begins free Nissan service

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TALLION Nissan Motors Ni geria (NMN) has begun its third nationwide free service campaign with comprehensive 80point check-up during a two-week car care clinic from Novemer 3 to ovember 15.

The campaign slated for designated Nissan cars up to 2012 model year is aimed at extending the advantages of Nissan excellent services to customers and delivering world-class consumer experience to Nissan growing clientele as the yuletide approaches.

Announcing this incentive in Lagos, Stallion NMN General Manager, After Sales Service, Mr Srinivasa Jayaram, said: “the free service campaign is a thorough examination of

the engine, transmission, electrical, under-body, Air Condition, exterior et al with series of discounts on mechanical and body repairs.”

Stallion NMN will extend the services to three other locations including Lagos, Abuja and Port-Harcourt, where customers will be availed of Nissan car wash, special discounts on oils, select accessories, consumables and other value added services.

Jayaram said: “We recognise the importance of excellence both in the quality of our vehicles and in after sales service.”

Stallion NMN in May last year appointed Nissan national sales custodian and has moved swiftly to reposition the brand as Nigeria’s foremost automobile.

SAFE DRIVING

National Council on Transport and Road Safety

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HE 2014 National Council on Transport (NCT) meeting has come and gone but there are some lessons from and for the Council for the enhancement of road safety in Nigeria.

The deliberations and resolutions of the council are very rich and promising if well implemented by all the concerned stakeholders.

At the Council meeting, the longstanding logjams between the Federal Road Safety, state governments, VIOs, and driving schools are eventually moving towards a lasting solution. This

is indeed a remarkable and commendable achievement at the NCT meeting in Enugu.

However, the progress report presented by some state governments and other stakeholders clearly affirmed the point I have stressed severally that, Nigeria is very good in policy-making but very poor and uncommitted in the implementation of same.

It is disheartening that some state governments did not attend the council meeting, several came one or two days into the five-day meeting while many of the states represented were still promising to

implement the 2013 resolutions of the council. No wonder, the transport sector in Nigeria is crawling and the rate of accident is still embarrassingly high due to lack of commitment by the stakeholders.

My fear and question now is, will the state governments and other stakeholders be more committed to complete the implementation of their backlogs as well as the 2014 resolutions?

It is time for all levels of government (Federal, State and Local) as well as other stakeholders such as the Federal Road Safety Commission, Vehicle Inspection Offic-

ers and the driving schools among others, to get much more committed to the promotion of the transportation system and road safety in Nigeria.

The consequences of road accidents and fatalities directly and indirectly affect the governments, organisations, families and individuals.

My prayer is that none of the 2014 National Council on Transport resolutions will be denied the right attention and implementation so that Nigeria can move further up the ladder of transportation and road safety in the global and continental ratings.

Jide Owatunmise Registrar / Chief Executive, Professional Driving and Safety Academy

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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorsed the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents in case of any emergency on the metropolitan Roads. Accordingly, the public may easily contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

174TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO.

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he purposeful journey towards the salvation of Kano State in the transformation of various sectors/developmental projects and programmes aimed at improving the socio - economic wellbeing of the citizenry continued on Thursday 6th October, 2014 (12th Muharram, 1436 AH) when Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE presided over the one hundred and seventy fourth (174th) sitting of the Kano State Executive Council.

Forty seven (47) memoranda from eleven (11) MDAs were tabled for deliberation of which twenty four (24) cutting across five (5) Sectors were approved for execution with an expenditure of Three Hundred and Fifty Seven Million, Forty Five Thousand, Eight Hundred and Forty One Naira, Forty Three Kobo (N357,045,841.43) covering twenty two (22) projects while the remaining two (2) are on policy issues as follows; 1. THE EDUCATION SECTOR The Sectoral approach towards total transformation of Kano State for the better hinges on the Education Sector for many obvious reasons especially those to do with the dignity and raising the status of the general society in Kano State.

Achievements by the present administration are on indelible records as the Education Sector was transformed under the leadership of the second (2nd) Tenure of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Every aspect at all levels are continually being transformed with unparalleled vigour and concern as the effort was unwaveringly continued today when Council approved the execution of four (4) memoranda connected to the Education Sector. Thus; a) Presentation/Forwarding of the Agreement of Affiliation for the Commencement of B. A Qur'anic Studies Programme between the Northwest University, Kano and Aminu Kano College of Islamic Legal Studies, Kano:The Ministry of Higher Education endorsed the document on the cited issue and presented it to Council for consideration.

Details on the genesis and need for affiliation between the two (2) Institutions were presented along with the precise thirteen (13) items agreed upon by the two (2) parties.

Council acknowledged the presentation and approved execution of the affiliation between the Northwest University, Kano and Aminu Kano College of Islamic Studies for the commencement of B.A in Qur'anic Studies Programme. b) Request for Funds for the 2014/2015 Academic Year Admission Drive into Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria for Qualified Kano State Indigenous Students:Over 76,000 Students graduate from Secondary schools every year to seek fir admission into tertiary institutions across the country. Some students with good result are unable to secure admission either due to lack of financial resources, moral support, exposure and even capacity to search for the admission. Based on this the Government of Eng Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso introduced different intervention measures to assist all students with relevant qualifications secure admission into tertiary institutions either within or outside the country. To achieve this a committee Tagged "Admission Drive Committee". The purpose is to collect the documents of all eligible Kano State indigenous students and present to all tertiary institutions within the country to seek admission on their behalf.

Contents of this memorandum reminded Council of its approval granted for the enacting of a twelve (12) - Member Committee to trace opportunities and secure admission for qualified Kano State Indigenous Students into Nigerian Tertiary Institutions.

Related to this, the Ministry of Higher Education submitted the request for the release of the sum of N1,413,000.00 to enable the Committee Members distribute the necessary credentials of 3,391 identified/screened qualified Kano State Indigenous Students with five (5) credits (including English Language and Mathematics) in the SSCE and 180 and above points in the JAMB Examinations for admission at various tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Council considered the five (5) items presented estimated to cost the sum of N1,413,000.00 and approved for its release to the Ministry of Higher Education for the stated purpose as the candidates satisfy all criteria. c) Presentation of Report on the Improved Performance of Public Schools in Kano State in the WASSCE from 2011 to 2014:Examinations are the main yardsticks used to measure and evaluate the performance of the education sector anywhere in the world and particularly in Nigeria where the clearly stated basic criteria for admission into tertiary institutions on completion of the senior secondary school segment of education is five (5) credits and above (including English Language and above) as approved by Nigeria University Commission (NUC).

In a nutshell, the details of the performance of public senior secondary schools in the WASSCE from 2011 to 2014 were analyzed and presented with the main highlight that the performance improved with a record rise of 26.12% in three (3) years of the second (2nd) Tenure of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE (i.e. 12.44% in 2011 compared to 38.56% in 2014). This shows an appreciable 310% increase in performance under this sector.Details were presented as follows; Year Candidates with 5 Credits and above % of candidate with 5 credits and above 2011 4,375 12.44% 2012 10,194 21.31% 2013 19,211 36.92% 2014 16,712 38.56% This was considered as an evident attestation of the commendable positive transformation on the ground as far as education is concerned under the second (2nd) Tenure of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. This administration provides all the physical/infrastructural; material; human/ personnel; accessories; etc. requirements at all levels which is among the commendable legacies of the present administration. In fact, the Ministry of Education summarized it all in the following three (3) notations as presented to Council for consideration along with one cardinal prayer forwarded. Viz; o Council should note the huge investment on the Education Sector under this administration in terms of the provision of physical, material and human resources requirements. o Council should note the decongestion of classrooms in public schools in Kano State from over hundred (100)per classroom to a maximum of sixty (60). o Council should note the improved performance of public schools in the State in the WASSCE as presented.

Cardinally, the prayer is for the improved performance to impact positively on the admission of Kano State Indigenous Students into tertiary institutions anywhere.

Council acknowledged the presentation with appreciation. d) Request for Funds to Enable Purchase of Some Privately Owned Houses to Facilitate Construc-

tion of a Public Primary School at the Site of Kwalwa Dying Pit:The State has the highest number of primary school age pupils in Nigeria especially in its municipality where the site of the Kwalwa Dying Pit is located.

Details on the genesis and the need to establish a befitting Public Primary School at the site were presented along with the cost to purchase some privately owned houses for the purpose to the tune of N13,309,650.00 as assessed by the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning.

As such, Council was requested to consider and approve the release of the sum of N13,309,650.00 for the purchase of some privately owned properties at Kwalwa Dying Pit site for the establishment of a Pub-

Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso

lic Primary School.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

2. THE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT/MAINTENANCE SECTOR The quality of the available infrastructure for use determines the efficiency and general success of the public anywhere in the world. This relates to physical development in terms of the provision of roads and related facilities such as bridges, flyovers, ring drainages, etc; residential housing; commercial building/facilities; Government Secretariats/buildings/facilities; potable water supply; provision of electricity; etc. performance of the present administration along this line is superlative and incomparable to any other in Nigeria. Kano currently wears a new look as celebrated and applauded by the citizenry in the State.

Council continued with the commendable trend today as approval was granted for the execution of six (6) memoranda related to the infrastructural development/maintenance sector as follows; a) Request for Funds to Enable Intervention to Ensure Effective/Efficient Performance of the Challawa Water Works 1st, 2nd and 3rd:The Challawa Water Treatment Plant (WTP) commonly referred to as the Challawa Water Works was established prior to the Second World War (1930's to 40's). The first (1st) segment was maintained to supply greater/urban Kano with potable water. This was progressively augmented with the provision of the second (2nd) and third (3rd) segments.

Reportedly, the Challawa Water Works first (1st) segment ceased operations for more than one (1) year and requires general renovation. Again, the second (2nd) and third (3rd) water works require some maintenance services and replacement of water works manifold for smooth/continuous operation.

The scope of works required was assessed and estimated to cost the aggregate sum of N76,731,064.58 which was requested for release by Council to enable execution of the stated project(s).

The details presented were appraised by Council which approved for the release of the sum of N50,000,000.00 for the stated purpose. b) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Enable Installation of a 300KVA 33/0.415 Electricity Transformer at Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso School of Basic and Remedial Studies Tudun Wada Dankadai, Kano:The Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso School of Basic and Remedial Studies Tudun Wada Dankadai is among the twenty four (24) tertiary institutions established courtesy of the second (2nd) Tenure of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Currently, the School is ready to commence academic activities pending provision of electricity supply to be facilitated by the procurement and installation of 300KVA electricity transformer and other electricity supply installations.

Details on the BEME for the project estimated to cost N9,856,450.00 which was requested for release were presented to Council for consideration.

Approval was granted as requested. c) Request for Funds to Enable Drilling of a Motorized Water Borehole at Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso School of Basic and Remedial Studies Tudun Wada Dankadai, Kano:Potable water supply was identified as among the necessary requirements pending take - off of academic activities at the Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso School of Basic and Remedial Studies Tudun Dankadai, Kano.

The Ministry of Rural and Community Development assessed and estimated the requirements to cost the sum of N4,500,000.00 which was requested for release.

Relevance of the request prompted Council to approve as requested. d) Request for Funds to Enable the Reactivation of One (1) Solar - Powered Water Borehole; Replacement of One (1) Hand Pump Water Borehole and Repairs of One (1) Motorized Water Borehole:Cognizant of the resolve to provide steady and reliable potable water supply to all areas of demand in all nooks and corners of Kano State by the present administration, Ministry of Rural and Community Development submitted this request for consideration by Council. The entire projects were assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N4,580,500.00 which was requested for release.

Accordingly, Council appraised the details presented and approved as requested to be expended as follows; i. Provision of one (1) motorized water borehole at the Neighbourhood of the School of Post Basic Midwifery Gezawa = N2,740,500.00. ii. Repairs of one (1) solar - powered water borehole at Yan' Awaki Town in Tsanyawa LGCA = N990,000.00. iii. Replacement of one (1) hand pump water borehole at Sabuwar Kofa, Kano City in Municipal LGCA = N850,000.00. e) Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Compensation for Additional Number of Properties Affected but Omitted at Ayagi/Warure Wuju - Wuju Channelization Project:The Wuju - Wuju Channelization Project is among the most popular infrastructural/physical developmental projects executed courtesy of the present administration under the able leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Many structures and properties were affected in the course of executing the project. These exist in clusters - Viz; Aisami, Sani Mainagge, Warure and Ayagi Quarters.

The compensation liabilities incurred were divided into two (2) phases and fully paid. Nevertheless, the compact nature of the clusters defied effective assessment. Further investigation revealed that ninety (90) items within phase 2 (i.e. Ayagi and Warure Quarters) were omitted. These were assessed to be of compensation value to the sum of N32,957,788.00 which was requested for release.

The authenticity of the request prompted Council to approve as requested so as to enable the State

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014 Ministry of Land and Physical Planning disburse the money appropriately to the beneficiaries. f) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Electricity at Bandirawo Housing Estate using Semi Underground House Servicing:Bandirawo city is one (1) of three (3) of its type established in the State by the present administration.

The other two (2) include the Kwankwasiyya and Amana cities. Each of the three (3) is constructed to international standards which prompted submission of the cited request.

The scope of work was assessed and estimated but presented to Council in four (4) options that range through most responsive, responsive and in - house which were appraised as approval was granted for the project to be executed using the in - house estimate of N153,450,000.75.

3. THE EMPOWERMENT SECTOR For the first time in the State, Government confidently ventures out to invest in empowerment of the youth of both Genders, underprivileged women, the physically challenged, medium and small scale entrepreneurs, etc. This is through the provision of access to and granting of sponsorship to indigenous people of the State to undergo educational training at under and post graduate levels locally and abroad; various skills acquisition training and granting of take - off capital, etc.

A lot can be said on this as the number of beneficiaries is incomparably impressive while the effort continues progressively as the already established projects/schemes are sustained.

Council, once again, approved the execution of eight (8) memoranda of significance to empowerment at today's sitting. Thus; a) Request for Funds to Enable Fifteen (15) Members of the Kano State Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASOW) Attend their 30th National Conference/AGM at Yenogoa, Bayelsa State (11th November, 2014):The Government of Kano State currently under the leadership of the second (2nd) incumbency of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE considers all Trade Unions/Associations as partners in progress cognizant to which the Kano State Head of Civil Service submitted the cited request for consideration by Council.

Fifteen (15) delegates are earmarked to represent the NASOW Kano State Chapter at the Conference for whom fund is required to pay for registration, transportation and accommodation. Again, two (2) of them aspire to vie for elections into the respective offices of Secretary General and Vice President, Northwest Zone for which forms are to be purchased.

Details of the requirements and financial implications were presented to Council for consideration which were appraised as approval was granted for the release of the recommended sum of N250,000.00. b) Request for Funds to Enable Ten (10) Staff of the Kano State Shari'ah Court Appeal to Participate at the 2014 "All Nigerian Judges of the Lower Courts at Abuja (17th - 21st November, 2014):Resolve of the present administration to empower its staff by building/improving their capacities for effective service delivery was considered as the State Head of Civil Service submitted the request for consideration by Council on behalf of authorities of the Kano State Shari'ah Court of Appeal.

Originally, the request was for the sponsorship of ten (10) staff which was trimmed down to five (5) and presented to Council for consideration. Details on the three (3) items required estimated to cost the sum of N415,000.00.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved as recommended. c) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Enable Commencement of the Second (2nd) Batch Training for Three Hundred (300) Trainees at the Institute of Horticulture, Bagauda:The Kano State Institute of Horticulture (KIHORT) Bagauda is among the eighteen (18) employable skills acquisition training institutes established courtesy of the second (2nd) incumbency of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Training for the first (1st) Batch at the Institute is already conducted as all the required basic infrastructure is in place. This request was submitted to enable commencement of the second (2nd) Batch Training for three hundred (300) beneficiaries drawn from across the 44 Local Government Council Areas of Kano State.

Details on the requirements and their financial implications to the tune of N41,762,500.00 which was requested for release were presented for consideration by the Council.

Accordingly, Council appraised the request and approved the release of the sum of N11,762,500.00 being cost of training materials/requirements for three (300) beneficiaries. d) Request for Financial Assistance to Enable One Umar Danladi Isah Kademi to Undergo B. Sc Pharmacy Training at Lincoln University College, Malaysia:The Secretary to the State Government intimated Council, through contents of this memorandum, on the details regarding the request.

Accordingly, Umar Danladi Isah Kademi requested for the State Government financial assistance to the tune of N1,239,250.00 to enable him undergo B. Sc Pharmacy at Lincoln University College, Malaysia.

Already, the Scholarship Board released the sum of N817,800.00 to the candidate. However, the Kano State Scholarship Board confirmed that the actual sum of money required for the Foundation Year training at the University is N1,775,620.00 from which the sum of the already released N817,800.00 was subtracted so as to bring down the current request to the tune of N957,820.00 which was recommended to Council for consideration.

Council acknowledged the details presented and approved as recommended. e) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Medical Assistance in Respect of Muhammad Bala Jajira a Staff of the Kano State Judicial Service Commission:Muhammad Bala Jajira is a staff of the Kano State Judicial Service Commission and was involved in a ghastly motor accident on 6th December, 2013 that resulted in a spinal cord injury for which he was hospitalized for five (5) months at the Dala Orthopedic Hospital. On his discharge, the pain continued and persisted. Further medical attention was sought by the patient at the Institute of Brain and Spine, Sunflag Hospital and Research Center, India.

Details on the four (4) items required were presented to Council along with the request for the release of the aggregate sum of N2,222,500.00.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved the release of the sum N2,000,000.00 as medical assistance to the officer. f) Request for the Re - Imbursement of Funds Expanded to Purchase and Distribute 117 Admission Forms into Federal Science College, Sokoto:This request was originally submitted from the State Ministry of Education but was endorsed by the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration.

Essentially, the State Ministry of Education complied with an Executive directive issued to purchase 117 admission forms into the Federal Science College, Sokoto for distribution to thirty nine (39) of the 44 Local Government Council Areas. The best three (3) candidates from each of the thirty nine (39) Local Government Council Areas should be allocated with the forms free of charge. The assignment was successfully carried out and an expenditure to the tune of N292,000.00 was incurred and requested for reimbursement.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested. g) Request for Funds to Enable Relocation of Eleven (11) Amongst the Kano State Indigenous Students Sponsored for Studies at UNISZA to Other Relevant Universities in Malaysia:The Secretary to the State Government submitted this request for consideration by Council. Details on the genesis and reasons for the request were presented along with request for the release of the sum of $151,916.57 to cover for the tuition fee, accommodation fee and other charges in respect of the eleven (11) relocated students.

The details presented were accepted as relevant by Council which approved the release of the requested sum of $151,916.57 to enable the successful relocation of the eleven (11) students from UNISZA to other relevant Universities in Malaysia. h) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Enable Conduct of the Second (2nd) Batch of Sustainable Modern Bee Keeping Training of Three Hundred (300) Farmers in Kano State:The Ministry of Environment endorsed the request, originally submitted by the Authorities at Kano State Afforestation Programme (KNAP) and presented it to Council for consideration. The benefits derivable by the three hundred (300)beneficiaries were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of N10,000,000.00 for the stated purpose.

Council acknowledged the presentation and approved as requested and equally directed the three hundred (300) beneficiaries to be selected from across the 44 Local Government Council Areas of the

51 State in collaboration between KNAP Officials and the Local Governments' CRC Chairmen. i) Request for Funds to Enable the Kano State Deaf Team Participate in the Third (3rd) National Game for the Deaf at Abuja (10th - 22nd November, 2014):Sports/physical exercise keep the body and mind together even for the physically challenged talk less of the able bodied. The State Government under the leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE supports and empower the youths to engage in participatory sporting activities at all levels including the pinnacle professional level. Note the effort extended towards sponsorship of the Kano Pillars Football and Basket Ball Clubs, etc.

Cognizant to this, the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture submitted the request for consideration by Council.

Details were presented along with the request for the release of the sum of N993,400.00 to enable the Kano State Deaf Team participate in the third (3rd) National Games for the Deaf at Abuja (10th - 22nd November, 2014).

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

4. THE HEALTH SECTOR Continuous existence in good health is second to no other aspiration of the human being which makes the present administration in the State to leave no stone unturned in its effort to transform the Health Sector for effective/efficient health care services delivery. All aspects and general requirements by the Health Sector are catered for as reliable records show. Verification trip taken round all the relevant health care facilities/hospitals owned by the State Government can confirm this as the general effort was continued by Council at today's sitting during which approval was granted for the execution of four (4) memoranda related to the Health Sector as follows; a) Request for Funds to Enable Re - Accreditation of the Medical Laboratory Technician/Medical Laboratory Assistant Programme Offered by the School of Health Technology, Kano:The Secretary to the State Government endorsed this request originally from the Ministry of Health and submitted it for consideration by Council.

Council was politely informed that the Medical Science Laboratory Council of Nigeria is sending a 3 - Member Re - Accreditation Team to visit the School of Health Technology, Kano between 17th - 20th November, 2014 as mandatory for the course to be re - accredited for continuation. The three (3) items required for the exercise estimated to cost the sum of N3,117,260.00 was requested for release and presented to Council for consideration.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested for the commitment. b) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Operational Funds in Respect of the Governing Council of the Kano State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Madobi:The Kano State Ministry of Health reported that the Governing Council of the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Madobi conducted its functions assiduously for the period of six (6) months expending the sum of N150,000.00 in each of them to have totally expended the sum of N900,000.00 which was requested for reimbursement. The Secretary to the State Government endorsed the request and presented it to Council for consideration.

Council noted, considered and approved for the release of the sum of N900,000.00 to the Governing Council of the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Madobi as reimbursement of the expenditure incurred. c) Request for Funds to Enable Successful Conduct of Activities Undertaken by the Private Health Institutions Registration Unit (PHIRU) October - December, 2014:The Secretary to the State Government endorsed this request and presented it for consideration by Council on behalf of the Ministry of Health. Significance of the activities of Primary Health Institutions Registration Unit in the Health Sector were emphasized to Council, through contents of this memorandum along with the request for the release of the sum of N1,543,421.03 to cover for the sixteen (16) items required for the successful conduct of the activities of Primary Health Institutions Registration Unit in three (3) months (October - December, 2014).

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the request for the undertaking. d) Request for Funds for the Re - Accreditation Visit to the School of Health Technology Bebeji by the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (12th - 19th November, 2014):Periodic accreditation visits by established regulatory bodies to institutions is mandatory and was presented to Council in respect of the cited request by the State Ministry of Health.

Details were presented for consideration along with the request for the release of the sum of N5,362,375.50 to cater for two (2) issues related to the accreditation visit as follows; i. Accreditation - six (6) items required = N3,382,375.50. ii. Accreditation team expenses = N2,000,000.00.

Total = N5,382,375.50.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested.

5. THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR Agriculture is still considered as the main productive engagement of the good people of State and the Government under the leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE as it continually provides for the sector so as to improve agricultural yields. Timely provision of assorted fertilizer was ensured along with the provision of training for the acquisition of skills related to agricultural production. Animal Traction Training Institutes were established at Gwarzo and Dambatta, Poultry Training Institute was established at Tukwui, Horticulture Institute was established at Bagauda, Fisheries Training Institutes were established at Bagauda and Gwarzo, etc.

Continuing on this line, Council approved the execution of one (1) memorandum related to the Agricultural Sector. Thus; Request for Funds to Enable Conduct of the 2014 Annual Contagious Bovine Pleuro-Pneumonia (CBPP)Cattle Vaccination Exercise:The State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources conducts the cited exercise annually among its mandated routines. The year 2014 is not an exception.

As such, the cited request was submitted from the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Details were presented along with the request for the release of the sum of N15,539,360.00.

Council acknowledged the routine nature of the request and approved as requested.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 174TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SITTING 1. CONDOLENCE MESSAGE Council wishes to extend its condolence message and commiserates with the bereaved families of Late Elder Statesman, Politician in person of Alhaji Yusuf Chiroma Kutama who died on Thursday6th November, 2014 (13th Al-Muharram, 1436 AH).May his gentle soul rest in Jannatul - Fir - Dausi and may the Almighty Allah grant the families the fortitude to bear the colossal loss.

2. SIGNING OF APPROPRIATION BILL 2014 Council witnessed the signing of the 2014 Budget Appropriation Bill by His Excellency the Governor for the continued execution of developmental projects/programmes aimed at improving the socio economic wellbeing of the State citizenry.

3. SIGNING OF KANO STATE PENAL CODE (AMENDMENT) NO. 12 OF 2014 Council witnessed the signing of the amendment of the Kano State Penal Code (Amendment) No. 12 of 2014by His Excellency the Governor. This Law now provides a minimum of fourteen (14) years imprisonment for offenders of Rape Cases. This is in line with the present administration policy to eliminate such act of inhumanity in the society.

Signed: Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports andCulture www.kn.gov.ng/new

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

52

SHOWBIZ

Polo Avenue hosts WIMBIZ to cocktail

Rivers politics: Julius Agwu out, Muma Gee in

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FTENtimes, we find Nigerian comedians making huge jokes of serious political issues, and when they find the subject sinking in the minds of their laughing audience, they cap it up, mischievously, that it was just an innocent joke. In like manner, comedian Julius Agwu who had earlier announced his aspiration for the governorship race of Rivers State, has applied the reverse gear.

Agwu, after three months of prepping for campaigns, released a statement through his manager, Prince Sunday Uwem, saying; “There was a meeting (Thursday, October 30) between Julius Agwu and his kinsmen from Ikwere, and it was agreed that he should step down from the governorship race because the current Governor Rotimi Amaechi is his friend and they are both from the same area. They will want the position to rotate to another part of the state and Julius Agwu has decided to listen to his people and withdraw from contesting.”

Meanwhile, another entertainer from Rivers State, Gift Eke, aka Muma Gee, has declared her intention to contest for Federal House of Representative seat in Abua/Odua and Ahoada East LGA under PDP party.

Muma Gee, a recent mother of twins and wife of Nollywood actor Prince Eke, is better known for her costumes and stage craft as a singer, got closer to her community when in her 20s she was given a chieftaincy title.

“Precisely in 2006, I was called upon by my people after a year of trying to per-

•Muma Gee

By Victor Akande

suade me to accept a chieftaincy title, I felt too young, and it was absurd in my family for a woman to pick up a chieftaincy title,” she said Tuesday, in Lagos.

Perhaps, having accepted the title, her eyes were opened to other areas of endeavours which she believes could be better driven as a politician.

“It has always been a pain in my heart when I see women and children being subjected to abject poverty.

And this is not about me only; but you and me, about the leadership that has been laid back in this country.

That is also the reason I had to leave Lagos to go back to my motherland. In preparation for this and it is now that the reason is properly unveiled,” she explained.

The artiste, who had since

picked up her nomination form, said her community is faced with the problem of underdeveloped, giving the reason she will want to displace the incumbent.

“I see this as my civic responsibility to take charge, and ensure that I use the tools that God has given me as a role model, knowing too well that there are many people out there that believe in me as an artiste and ambassador.”

In pursuit of this ambition, she decided to “get married and raise a family at some point,” but added that she is immensely qualified for the position, because of her passion for helping people.

“Having the passion to help people, even though I need help myself, in the process, I have created the Muma Gee Foundation as a platform for helping the mentally challenged,” she declared.

HEAD of its 2014 conference, and in a bid to show support for Nigerian women striving to excel in a male dominated world, luxury goods store, Polo Avenue, recently, hosted members of Women in Management, Business and Public Service, WIMBIZ, to a PreConference Speakers Cocktail Event at the Polo Avenue Store on Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue in Lagos.

Executive Director, Polo Limited, Jennifer Obayuwana noted that the company recognises the fact that a lot of Nigerian women have invested their time, effort and resources in ensuring that Nigeria becomes a greater nation. She added that the decision to associate with WIMBIZ was borne out of her desire to encourage other women excel in their own right.

“As you already know, to succeed as a woman in a world largely dominated by men which we live in today requires extra effort, dedication and perseverance to attain. As a responsible organisation, Polo Avenue will contin-

By Medeme Ovwe

ue to support every good cause being championed

by Nigerians, especially women who desire to make positive impact in whatever they do,” she said.

Executive Director, WIMBIZ, a Nigeria based non-profit organisation, Mosun Layode, expressed her delight at the gesture extended to the organisation by Polo Avenue. She noted that the level of support received in recent times continues to spur the organisation to pursue its goals.

“The 13th WIMBIZ Annual Conference themed Nigeria Rising: Accelerating Transformation will feature a host of renowned speakers who will expose women to the numerous opportunities available to them in the country,” Layode added.

The company recently unveiled an initiative called Polo Avenue Fashion Series which it said is aimed at supporting the vibrant fashion industry in Nigeria. Polo Avenue is the franchise owner of Versace, Gucci, Dolce and Gabanna, Balenciaga,

•Obayuwana

Chopard and Jimmy Choo, and is recognized as the one-stop leading luxury destination in Nigeria.

Airtel takes One Mic to campuses

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ASHING in on the success of the first phase of Airtel One Mic, telecom outfit, Airtel Nigeria, has commenced its second phase and, according to its management, it is billed to take place in 12 tertiary institutions across the four geographical regions of the country.

The initiative, the management revealed, is aimed at discovering and promoting musical talents from tertiary institutions in Nigeria, in line with the company’s commitment to consistently encourage and empower Nigerian youths towards achieving their dreams through various identified passion points.

Students from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State University and the University of Lagos will compete under the Lagos region, while participants from University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University and Ekiti State University will represent the West region.

In the East, University of Calabar, Institute of Management Technology (IMT) Enu-

By Dupe Ayinla-Olasunkanmi

gu and University of Port Harcourt will compete for honours while the North region will have contestants drawn from University of Abuja, University of Jos and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, described the project as one of the unique ways through which Airtel continues to discover and empower talents in Nigeria.

“The stable of Airtel Nigeria is replete with quality initiatives designed to support the dreams and aspirations of the Nigerian youth, be it male or female. The company’s objective for One Mic is to create additional avenues to uncover and tap the rich talents, creativity and skills of Nigerian youths,” he said.

According to Ogunsanya, popular Nigerian artistes and music producers such as ID Cabasa, Reminisce, Black Magic, Jesse Jagz, DJ Jamalot, Patoranking, Ill Bliss, Master-

craft and Phyno have been lined up to mentor the contestants and also act as judges in the competition. An all-star song and musical video by the winners and artistes will also be produced at the end of the competition while the winner will be presented with the grand prize of a brand new Kia Picanto car.

•Phyno

•OC Ukeje and wife

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T was a day of bliss on Saturday, November 8 for Nollywood actor, OC Ukeje, as he tied the nuptial knot with his Canada-based beau, Ibukun TogonuBickersteth, at Hoare’s Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Yaba, Lagos.

The graduate of Marine Science from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), had his colleague and long-time friend, Kemi Lala-Akindoju, as his best man.

Earlier in the day, the couple had their traditional marriage while the white wedding followed immediately.

The couple had their reception at The Incubator, Yusuf Abiodun

OC Ukeje weds

By Ovwe Medeme

Way, City of David Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The 33-year-old actor came into limelight when he won the 2007 Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) reality show.

He has received several awards including Africa Movie Academy Awards, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, Nollywood Movies Awards, Best of Nollywood Awards, Nigeria Entertainment Awards and Golden Icons Academy Movie

Awards.

Among the blockbuster films he has starred in are, Two Brides and a Baby, Hoodrush, Alan Poza, Confusion Na Wa and Half of a Yellow Sun. He has also been a member of cast of the TV series that was presented at the International Emmy World Television Festival, Wetin Dey (2007) produced by the BBC World Service Trust.

According to information, the actor has concluded shoot in London for the BFI sponsored film, Gone Too Far.

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

53

NEWS

Kwara APC: we’ll be fair to all aspirants

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From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

HE Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured its aspirants of fairness and a levelplaying field.

The party also assured its members that its primaries for elective positions would hold as scheduled, in line with its commitment to internal and participatory democracy.

In a statement by its spokesperson, Alhaji Sulyman Buhari, APC said it would conduct primaries that would be accepted by all. The statement reads: “We want to assure all party members, supporters and the good people of Kwara State that primary elections for all elective positions will hold as earlier scheduled, in line with the commitment of our party, to internal and participatory democracy.

“There is no cause for alarm and our members have no reason to express fear or anxiety. Our party is yet to decide on any candidate for whatever position. Our party will decide through acceptable primary elections.

“In constituencies where party stakeholders and members present consensus candidates, our party will honour such agreement but such consensus arrangement will not halt the conduct of primary elections for the concerned elective positions.

•Groom’s father, Mr. Olakunle Osuntokun (right); his wife, Olakitan (second left); bride’s father, Mr. Olawande Adebiyi (left), his wife, Aina (second right) at the wedding of Oluwamayowa Osuntokun and Adeola (middle) at the Catholic Church of Annunciation, Abraham Adesanya Estate, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos...at the weekend

First Lady summons Kwara aspirants

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•Tension heightens in Adamawa, others

OLLOWING irreconcilable differences, First Lady Dame Patience has summoned all governorship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to a meeting in Abuja today on how to regain Kwara State.

The alleged interference of the First Lady has also heightened tension in Adamawa, Rivers and Bayelsa states where there is strong opposition against anointed aspirants.

Investigation showed that moves by PDP to ‘capture’ Kwara State in 2015 had suffered a severe setback as all aspirants vowed not to step down for any anointed choice, Mr. Dele Belgore.

The aspirants are insisting on a free and fair process which may lead to the loss of the ticket by Belgore, who is being backed by a friend of the First Lady.

The Belgore camp did not get more than 30 delegates out of the 750 delegates from the state.

Worried by the results, the congress committee did not sign the result list but travelled with it to Abuja, where the list might be “completely changed”.

It was learnt that when the

From: Yusuf Alli and Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

First Lady visited Kwara State last week, she noticed the disagreement among the aspirants.

It was also gathered that she could feel a “gang up” against her friend and the anointed aspirant by other governorship hopefuls.

Disturbed by the fact that the All Progressives Congress (APC) might still retain Kwara State in 2015, the First Lady at the end of her visit summoned all aspirants to a meeting in Abuja today.

A governorship aspirant who spoke on the condition of anonymity said: “In Kwara, the First Lady has virtually handed over the affairs of the party to her friend whose anointed aspirant cannot secure victory for PDP in the state.

“The First Lady has summoned all governorship aspirants to a meeting on Monday. We were thinking of shunning the meeting but we thought it is better to go there and confront the First Lady.

“We cannot accept a situation where the First Lady will decide for the whole people. This is a sad devel-

opment, we cannot be shortchanged.”

It was also gathered that the alleged backing of some governorship aspirants in Adamawa, Rivers and Bayelsa by the First Lady has created tension in the affected states.

Another source said: “What is playing out in Kwara is a replica of the political situation in Rivers and Bayelsa where stakeholders are watching how far the First Lady can go in imposing governorship candidates.

“We are all witnesses to how the ward congresses were hijacked in Rivers State and the attendant protest by stakeholders.

“In Adamawa, the First Lady is said to be backing Governor Bala Ngillari, against the PDP agreement zoning the governorship to Adamawa Central.

“Before Ngilari was brought by a court order, the party had agreed to zone the 2015 governorship to the central even though the then acting Governor Umaru Fintiri is from the Northern zone.

Ngilari had promised stakeholders to abide by the subsisting agreement while

scouting for support during his legal battle for the Adamawa governorship.

In line with his pledge and the PDP agreement which was superintended by the Senate President, Chief David Mark, Ngilari initially bought a senatorial seat nominations form.

“However, encouraged by some people, Ngilari began to deviate from his pledge and decided to abandon the PDP pact on zoning by purchasing the nomination form.

“Ngilari is banking on support from the First Lady who assured him of the PDP ticket. The first Lady was said to have directed Ngilari to purchase the governorship forms which he allegedly did through proxy.

The Governor has since returned the fill out form, himself.

“Ngilari however suffered serious defeat in the recent delegate congress as other aspirants swept the polls.

But Ngilari is still banking on the assurances of the First Lady who is said to be pressurizing members of the NWC to let the Governor participate in the December 8 primaries.”

32 killed in Nasarawa ethnic violence

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HIRTY-two people were feared killed at the weekend in Nasarawa State in an ethnic violence.

Gunmen suspected to be Fulani insurgents reportedly killed some Eggon villagers at Arikya-Soni in Lafia East

G

Development Area Council.

It was gathered that the villagers were returning from their farms when the gunmen attacked them and took away their property.

Their bodies were said to have been recovered and buried at Umme. There was

wailing from the families of the victims and sympathisers.

A resident at Rugbadu recounted yesterday the dastard killing. The police could not be reached last night for comment.

•Governor Al-makura

Gunmen kidnap Ribadu’s brother

UNMEN yesterday kidnapped Mallam Sani Ribadu, a younger brother to a former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

The younger Ribadu was kidnapped at his farm on the road to Fufore, about 15 kilometres to Yola.

According to sources, he went to his farm last night for a “routine tendering of his crops” when the gunmen stormed the

Yusuf Alli, Abuja

place and took him to an unknown destination.

It was unclear if the abduction was politically-motivated or by insurgents in the state.

But there was suspicion of political motives last night because Sani was rated as “central to the campaign coordination of the ex-EFCC chairman.”

Besides being a former chairman of Yola South Local Government Area, Sani Ribadu

was a member of Adamawa State House of Assembly.

A source said: “The ex-local government chairman was abducted and his car left intact at the farm. We cannot locate him.

“Apart from alerting the police, a search team has been put in place.”

The source added: “Actually, Sani Ribadu’s experience is of immense benefit to the former EFCC chairman, who is still learning the ropes in poli-

tics.

“We are suspecting that he might have been targeted. But it is too early to draw any conclusion.”

The Special Assistant on Media to the former EFCC chairman, Mallam Abdulazeez Abdulazeez, who spoke with our correspondent about 10pm yesterday, said: “It is true that some gunmen kidnapped Oga’s brother or cousin, to put it in better perspective.”

We’ve had enough of PDP misrule, say APC members From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

THE people of Birnin Gwari, Jema’a and Sanga local government areas of Kaduna State have said they will use their votes to oust the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in next year’s elections.

The said they have had “enough of PDP misrule”.

But Kaduna State Deputy Governor Nuhu Audu Bajoga told people of Southern Kaduna Senatorial District that it was better to follow PDP’s narrow way to heaven than another party’s wide road to hell.

Kwankwaso happy about turnout for PVCs

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From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

ANO State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has expressed satisfaction with the turnout of the residents in the ongoing collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

But the governor regretted the non-provision of cards in some polling units in 10 local government areas.

He assured that the problems affecting the distribution of the cards would be solved to ensure that prospective voters got their PVCs. Kwankwaso spoke at the weekend after collecting his PVC at Kwankwaso Malamai polling unit.

He said: “There is no doubt, we have started very well, even though we have got some challenges. We have got many wards and polling units that were not able to start this collection today.”

The governor regretted that in “some places, especially Dawakin Tofa, among the 10 wards, only two got the materials; Rimin Gado, only four wards got the materials and eight wards were left out; Rano, only five wards had the materials and the other five - Hotoron Kudu, Gwazaye, Kombotso, Dakata and so on – were left out”.

He added: “However, we received assurances from the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) that the materials would be made available in all the places by next Wednesday.”

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

54

A

MERICANS went to the polls last Tuesday to elect candidates to various offices, including the Senate, House of Representatives and some governorship seats.

The 113 th Congress, which is now winding down, consists of 45 Republicans, 53 democrats and two independents in the Senate with 233 Republicans, 205 democrats and 3 vacant seats in the House of Representative.

But what a difference a day makes in politics. The dynamics has changed overnight and the balance of power has now shifted fully in the way of the Republican Party.

They now control the Senate with 52 seats, shrinking the Democratic Party’s fortune in the upper chamber to 45.

Thus the gavel of the Senate Majority Leader, come January, now passes on from Democrat Harry Reid of Nevada to Mitch McConnel of Kentucky.

On the gubernatorial races, as we write, the Republicans handily won eight of the declared results with three too close to call while the only upset the democrats were able to pull is the state of Pennsylvania.

In the 2010 mid-term elections which led the GOP to seize control of the house with the Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, losing the gavel to John Boehner, a Republican of modest background, mostly renown for easily tearing up at any opportunity that touches his soul, President Obama wasted no time to acknowledge that the Democratic Party was caught shellacking.

Now this time around, 2014, another midterm elections, Ladies and Gentlemen you are welcome to Shellacking 2.0 More surprising is my darling state of Maryland, a blue state, heavily democratic, where a dark horse, Representative Larry Hogan, a real estate business mogul, trounced the effable incumbent, African-American, war decorated

U.S. 2014 elections: Global Focus Shellacking 2.0 and beyond DAYO FAKUADE, Foreign Editor

Lt. Gov Anthony G. Brown. What a night of the political long knives?

By way of digression, remember President Nixon’s Vice President Spirrow Agnew’s ‘’nattering nabob of negativism’’ credited to his speech writer William Saffire, that is classic Maryland for you.

We look forward to a lot of horse-trading, but inevitable gridlock in the final couple years of the Obama administration.

On a rather conciliatory note, President Obama and the incoming Senate Majority Leader Republican Mitch McConnel have both promised to work together in the interest of the people.

As usual, this is a tall order. Talk is cheap. Show me the action as the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Washington is a complex and intriguing place when it comes to game-playing and political shenanigans. Going by what Rand Paul and other right-wingers have been saying, they will “ bombard Obama with bills and bills and bills until we weary him out”.

In a press conference after the elections, Obama said he had spoken with Sen. John Boehner and congratulated Sen. Mitch McConnell, and he looks forward to working together over the next two years.

“Obviously, Republicans had a good night and they deserve credit for running good campaigns.

What stands to me though is that the American people sent a message ... They expect the people they elect to focus on their ambitions and not ours. They expect us to get the job done, all of us, from both parties”, he said There will be so many areas of divergence, including The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

( Obamacare) , which the Republicans detest, income inequality, climate change, Immigration Reforms and foreign issues but they might find common grounds on a few just to keep the clock ticking to the beginning of campaign 2016. These include the need to create more jobs that pay well, improving infrastructure, tax reform, growing exports and helping more young people afford college.

Lo and behold the president wasted no time in asking Congress the very next day for $6.2bn (£3.9bn) to fight Ebola in West Africa and to avoid it spreading in the US. He is requesting $4.5bn in immediate response funds and more than $1.5bn for a contingency fund More importantly is the leeway which the sweeping victory will give to the presidential wannabes in the Grand Old Party –GOP like controversial Wisconsin Gov Scott Walker, Tea Party stalwart Rand Paul and others.

It is too early to see how Tuesday’s outcome will impact Hillary Rodham Clinton’s decision to run or not to run, come 2016.

Definitely, in the next two years, the Republican Party is not inviting President Obama to any pity party any time soon.

But two years also is a lifelong in American politics, and as we say all politics are local. Obama might be at the lowest ebb of popularity in his presidency now and thus the Republicans were able to make political hay out of it, but it does not necessarily translate into what will come in 2016.

We shall wait and see. In the meantime, let the parties begin as we look forward to the Jambites coming to the 114 th Congress in

sms 08134230367 Washington in January. daborgu@gmail.com They have a lots of ropes to learn. brought in two army chieftains and Mr President tear down this at the end of the day Army second in wall command of security at the PresidenSo extolled then President Roncy upstaged his Army Chief and imald Reagan at the gate of Bradenmediately proclaimed himself head burg, the dividing fence between of interim government only to proEast and West Berlin in Germany claim himself full time head not on on June 12 1967. Willy nilly and in interim basis any more. his book The August Coup, PreasThe African Union , by a tripartite ident Mikhal Gorbachev did exactteam including our very own Presily the same months later, thus dent Goodluck “”Clueless “Jonathmarkiong the beginning of the end an, (as if he does not have enough on of the cold war setting the stage his drawing board crying for attenfor the capitulation of the USSR tion, Chiboc Girls, Boko Haram and now being scavenginly reignited inordinate ambition to perpetuate by a Spooky Vladimir Putin. himself come 2015 or Dame of Daris Yesterday actually marked the is God O) stepped in to force the lead25th anniversary of the decimation er of the military interim leader Lt of the Berlin Wall and it’s been a Col Zida to grudgingly accept to mix bag of successes and failures. name a civilian as head of the transiBut on the global level we can still tion team within two weeks. recall the bravery and resolve of men No sooner the envoys hopped on and women of compassion and hutheir planes, the military mancho is manity not being violent but chiselnow being reported as saying that he ling at the wall inch by inch without is not under any mandate to hand violence. Today Germany is a better over power in two weeks as generalplace for their joint and productive ly agreed upon. So Burkina Faso, effort. And the international commuwhere art thou before sanctions start nity is all better for this courageous kicking in? We demand answers. effort.

As we conclude, our globe is our Burkina Faso: Where art thou? heritage. Let’s continue to keep her The news filtering from the West clean in our everyday living. Go African nation of Burkina Faso has green, plant a tree in your neighbeen as unsettling and intriguing latebourhood and put a smile on a ly. Well, it all started as if the country tight face, by doing an act of ranis breathing and copying from the dom kindness. Remember that BaArab Spring script. What do you exbatunde Raji Fashola administrapect when a man thinks after 27 years tion extols us :”Life is better with of lording it over a people and still Trees”” Sit under one and read a wants to extend his lordship over his story to your children and grandpeople without necessarily improvchildren, you will be better for it. ing their lot?

See you next week.

President Compaore’s forced exit

FOREIGN NEWS Spanish Catalonia holds informal vote on secession

Asia trip tests Obama’s post-election global clout H IS influence at home fading, President Barack Obama is looking abroad to China, the opening stop of a three-country trip that will test his ability to play a commanding global role during his final two years in office.Once Obama was treated like a superstar on the world stage.

But the president will arrive in Beijing on Monday under far different conditions, with his most powerful days behind him.At home, Republicans are still rejoicing at having pummeled Obama’s party in the midterm elections, relegating Democrats to the minority in both chambers of Congress. His counterparts in Asia surely have noticed.

The trip also marks one of Obama’s final chances to deliver on his goal to amplify America’s influence in Asia and the Pacific. In China, Myanmar and Australia, leaders may render a judgment on whether Obama’s lofty ambitions in the region have been sidetracked by crises in Eastern Europe, Africa and the Middle East.”This is going to be a tough trip for the presi-

dent,” said Ernest Bower, an Asia expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

He said Asian leaders were viewing Obama’s visit with this question in mind: Who is the president after the midterm elections?”They’ll be trying to discern whether he has the commitment and political capital to follow through,” Bower said.

Even before the election, Obama’s commitment to the region and his ability to boost U.S. clout there was in doubt in many capitals. U.S. allies such as Japan and South Korea have pressed for a greater American presence, partly to counter China’s growing influence. Yet Obama’s mission against the Islamic State group and his government’s Ebola response have diverted U.S. military and financial resources elsewhere.During his three days in China, Obama planned to give a speech about U.S. ties to Asia at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and meet with President Xi

Jinping..Under Obama, U.S. trade negotiators for years have been pursuing the TransPacific Partnership, a major trade pact being negotiated with 11 nations.

The talks repeatedly have blown past their deadlines, and other nations have been wary about Obama’s ability to push a deal through Congress, where Democrats are sensitive to the concerns of labor unions.But with Republicans in charge, Obama’s prospects may have increased - so the argument goes. Republicans tend to support trade deals as a way to boost the U.S. economy, and GOP leaders have spoken positively about giving Obama the power to submit a final deal to an up-or-down vote, preventing last-minute amendments that could sink it.China is not part of the talks, and is pursuing its own free trade deals in the region.

What’s more, Chinese leaders have viewed Obama’s focus on Asia with suspicion, fearing an attempt to contain China’s growth and influence

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•Obama

in the region.In a sign of the political climate facing Obama in China, state-run media have been mocking him in the days before his visit.Another reminder of the tensions in the region came hours before Obama left on Saturday when North Korea released two American detainees after Obama’s spy chief made a secret mission to Pyongyang to secure their release.In his meetings with Xi, Obama plans to address human rights issues, officials said, including the treatment of journalists as well as pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. Climate change, a big concern in smogfilled Beijing, and China’s aggressive behaviour toward its neighbors are also on Obama’s agenda.

Bahrain meeting focuses on terrorist financing

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ASAN Jamali Bahrain’s foreign minister urged world leaders Sunday to do more to cut off funding for terrorist groups and prevent them from profiting from illegal businesses.

Sheik Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa made the comments at the start of a meeting in the Bahraini capita, Manama, aimed at bringing together financial experts to improve the fight against extremist fundraising.

He urged delegates to set a path to ensure that financial institutions and charities cannot funnel funds to terrorist groups, and “put an end to their ability to smuggle goods and extort funds from commercial enterprises.”The head

of the U.S. Treasury Department’s effort to undermine the Islamic State’s finances, David Cohen, last month estimated the group was earning about $1 million a day from black market oil sales alone.

PAIN’s northeastern region of Catalonia opened polling stations on Sunday to hold an informal vote on independence that the central government has called illegal.

The regional Catalan government pushed forward with the vote despite Spain’s Constitutional Court ordering its suspension on Tuesday after it agreed to hear the Spanish government’s challenge that the poll is unconstitutional.”Despite the enormous impediments, we have been able to get out the ballot boxes and vote,” regional president Artur Mas said after depositing his ballot at a school in Barcelona.

Polling stations are being manned by more than 40,000 volunteers in an attempt to circumvent the court’s suspension. Results aren’t expected until Monday morning.The ballot asks voters two questions: should Catalonia be a state, and if so, should it be independent.

Polls show that the majority of Catalonia’s 7.5 million inhabitants want to vote, while around half support independence.Catalonia’s push for independence comes two months after Scottish voters voted to remain in the United Kingdom.Mas has said the vote, which lacks guarantees such as an electoral roll, is only symbolic and will likely lead to anticipated regional elections that will stand-in for a referendum on independence.

Flight MH17: Nine crash victims still unaccounted for

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INE of the 298 victims of July’s MH17 crash in eastern Ukraine are still unaccounted for, Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders has said.

He was speaking after a ceremony in Kharkiv as another five coffins with remains were flown to the Netherlands.

The Boeing 777 Malaysian Airlines was flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it crashed in territory held by proRussian rebels.

The majority of the victims - 193 - were Dutch.

Both rebels and their supporters in Russia have denied shooting the aircraft down.

Investigators have struggled to gain access to the site as clashes continue nearby between Ukrainian government forces and the separatists.

Mr Koenders said experts had already come “a long way” with the identification process and would do everything they could to find more remains.

The identification process is taking place at Hilversum in the Netherlands

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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FOREIGN NEWS

Demonstrators support the families of the missing students in the main square in Mexico City on Saturday PHOTO:Reuters

Protests in Mexico after claims of students’ deaths

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UNDREDS of protesters in the Mexican state of Guerrero have attacked government buildings in the capital, Chilpancingo, burning cars.

They accused the government of involvement in the murder of 43 students in the town of Iguala in September.

The protest came after the attorney general said gang members had confessed to the killings.

He said the students were killed by the criminals acting on police orders.

Mexican Attorney General Jesus Murillo Karam said three alleged gang members had claimed the students were

Sudan’s president’s guards killed at palace

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WO security guards have been killed by a man armed with a knife outside Sudan’s presidential palace in the capital Khartoum, officials say.

The attacker seized one of the guards’ weapons before other guards killed him, a presidential spokesman said.

He said the man appeared to be “mentally unstable”.

President Omar al-Bashir was not there at the time.

Mr Bashir first seized power in a coup in 1989, and announced last month he would run for office again next year.

Press secretary Emad Ahmed said the assailant did not respond to calls to stop before he was shot dead by guards.

The International Criminal Court (ICC), which Sudan does not recognise, has indicted President Bashir for genocide in the Darfur region. He denies the charges.

Mr Bashir, who is 70, has a loyal following in Sudan’s ruling party The African Union (AU) has backed Mr Bashir in his rejection of The Hague-based court’s indictment.

It argues that as a serving head of state, he enjoys presidential immunity.

handed over to them by police.

They said some were already asphyxiated and they shot the others dead, before setting fire to all the bodies.

The suspects from the Guerreros Unidos drug gang were recently arrested in connection with the disappearances.

Mr Murillo warned that it would be difficult to identify the charred remains and that authorities would continue to consider the students as missing until DNA tests confirmed the identities.

Mexican Attorney General Jesus Murillo: ‘’I know that the information we have ob-

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weeks of protests across the country where demonstrators have insisted there is collusion between officials and organised crime, along with government inaction.

Masked protesters were armed with petrol bombs in Chilpancingo A phrase used by Mr Murillo to abruptly conclude his press conference on Friday has gone viral on social media.

He told journalists “Ya me canse”, meaning “Enough, I’m tired”.

The phrase became a hash tag on social networks and is being seen in graffiti, political cartoons and videos online.

Africa sets up $28.5m Ebola fund

OP African business leaders have established an emergency fund to help countries hit by the Ebola outbreak.

A pledging meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, raised $28.5m to deploy at least 1,000 health workers to Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Experts say that if the disease is to be speedily contained, it needs to be tackled in these three countries.

Nearly 5,000 people out of about 14,000 cases have been killed by the virus, most of them in Liberia.

Speaking at the end of the Addis Abada meeting, African Union chairman Dlamini

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tained causes great pain in the families’’ Mr Murillo showed videotaped confessions by the suspects who said they had loaded the students into dumper trucks and taken them to a landfill site in Cocula, a city near Iguala.

About 15 of the students were already dead when they arrived and the rest were shot, according to the suspects.

Mr Murillo said the bodies were then burned with petrol, tyres, firewood and plastic in an inferno that lasted for 14 hours.

The case has shocked Mexico. The protests on Saturday in Chilpancingo echoed

Zuma said the resources mobilised would be part of a longer term programme to deal with such outbreaks in the future.

The chairman of telecommunications giant Econet Wireless, Strive Masiyiwa, said that several companies had pledged money to the emergency fund - to be managed by the African Development Bank.

The Ethiopia meeting took place as Liberia was reported by the medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) on Friday to have seen a significant reduction in the number of new cases.

It warned, however, that Ebola was still on the rise in

Guinea and Sierra Leone.

Chris Stokes, the head of MSF’s Ebola response, told the BBC that the decrease in the number of cases in Liberia presented an opportunity for health workers to step up their work.

The World Health Organization says that at least one in five infections occur during the burials of Ebola victims - it issued a guide this week to how best to conduct funerals It is not clear why exactly the number of cases in Liberia has dipped - but it has been running an awareness campaign to advertise best health practices and install hand washing stations.

Merkel hails Berlin wall’s fall

HE fall of the Berlin Wall has shown the world that dreams can come true and “nothing has to stay as it is”, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said.

Speaking 25 years after the event, Mrs Merkel said the message for those in countries where rights were threatened was that things could get better.

Earlier she attended a service for the former East German regime’s victims.

The Berlin Wall was built in 1961 to stop people fleeing from communist East Germany to the West.

Its fall in 1989 became a powerful symbol of the end of the Cold War. Later in the day, some 7,000 white balloons - perched on 3.6-metre poles to match the height of the wall and stretching for 15km (nine miles) - will be released to symbolise its disappearance.

Before that there is a concert and a “citizen’s party” at the Brandenburg Gate.

‘We can change things’ The day’s events began with a brass band playing, evoking the trumpets which brought down the walls of

the biblical city of Jericho.

Chancellor Merkel said it was easy to forget what had happened in Berlin Crowds have flocked to the remaining stretches of the Berlin Wall Chancellor Merkel, who grew up in East Germany, and other officials laid roses in one of the remaining sections of the wall.

Speaking at the opening of a new information centre about the Wall, Mrs Merkel said it was easy to forget what had happened and it was important to remember it.

Queen Elizabeth II leads UK memorial ceremony

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UEEN Elizabeth II honored fallen soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth Sunday in a dignified ceremony at the heart of central London.

The 88-year-old monarch placed a poppy-laden wreath at the foot of the Cenotaph, built after World War I to remember those who lost their lives.

Large crowds, including a leatherlunged enthusiast who managed to shout “Hooray” loudly enough to be picked up by national television,

thronged the surrounding streets on a cold, clear day in the capital.

The annual ceremony remains a national focal point, much as it was when Elizabeth was a young princess. There is the mournful symphonic music, the march of around 10,000 veterans, and the sense that Britain and much of the Commonwealth has come to a halt to recognize those who have lost their lives in battle.

Prime Minister David Cameron called this year’s event particularly poignant because 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of

World War I. He also cited the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings and the conclusion of Britain’s military operations in Afghanistan.

The pageantry harkens back to the days of the British Empire, even as contemporary losses of British personnel in Afghanistan are sadly noted.

Elizabeth, dressed in black, bowed her head after she placed the wreath at the Cenotaph, built after World War I to recognize soldiers killed in action. She spent more than a half hour standing motionless as the ceremony unfolded.

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

NEWS The Nation wins eight awards at NMMA Continued from page 4

to clinch the prize.

This newspaper’s reporters were also finalists in other categories. Collins Nweze was runner-up in the Banking and Finance category. Innocent Duru was runner-up in the Feature Writing Category, which went to this newspaper’s Deputy Political Editor Raymond Mordi, who won with an entry from his former employer, Tell.

Assistant Editor Lucas Ajanaku was also runner-up in the Telecommunication Reporter of the Year category, which was won by Isioma Madike with an entry from his former employer, Sunday Mirror.

A senior cartoonist with this newspaper, Muyiwa Adetula, was also runner-up in the Nnamdi Azikwe Prize for Cartoonist of the Year.

The Nation’s performance is an improvement on last year’s record when it won six top awards, including Newspaper of the Year.

Omotoso won the Dele Giwa Prize for Editor of the Year. The Editorial Board, which has won laurels for its editorials on critical issues, won the prize for Editorial Writing. Assistant Editor (News) Olukorede Yishau won the Intercontinental Bank Prize for Capital Market Reporter of the Year. Assistant Editor (Investigations) Joke Kujenya clinched

the Peter Odili Prize for Power Reporter of the Year and Senior Correspondent Nweze won the UBA Prize for Money Market Reporter of the Year.

Two other Assistant Editors Sina Fadare and Chikodi Okereocha - got the Etisalat Prize for Most Innovative Reporter of the Year and Buba Marwa Prize for Defence Reporter of the Year.

Though with The Nation, both won with stories published by their former employers, National Mirror and Tell. This newspaper’s Brands Correspondent and reigning winner of the Schneider Prize for Electrical Counterfeiting in Africa, Adedeji Ademigbuji, was runner-up in the Brands and Marketing category as well as the CSR Reporting category for entries published by his former employer, National Mirror.

Editor of the Year was won by Martin Ayankola of The Punch.

The Newspaper of the Year was also won by The Punch. Tell was declared Magazine of the Year.

The Business Publication of the Year is BusinessDay. The Prize for the Ernest Sisei Ikoli Prize for the Newspaper Reporter of the Year was won by ThisDay’s Features Editor Adeola Akinremi, a past winner of NMMA and DAME. Other winners are: Bashorun MKO Abiola Prize for Sports Reporter of the Year - Anthony

Akaeze (BSJ): Lateef Jakande Prize for Political Reporter of the Year- Gbenga Ogundare (National Standard);Peter Odili Prize for Power Reporter of the Year Sulaimon Olanrewaju (Tribune); Ibrahim Shekarau Prize for Education Reporter of the Year Akaeze Anthony (BSJ); Keystone Prize for CSR Reporter of the Year Muyiwa Lucas (BSJ); Conoil Prize for Energy Correspondent of the Year Adedayo Oketola (The Punch); News Photographer of the Year Olaoluwa Chris Mimiola (Tribune). Olusegun Mimiko Prize for Foreign News Reporter of the Year Gesinde Oluseyi Opeyemi (Tribune); Adamu Muazu Prize for Tourism Reporter of the Year, Olapade Matthew (Tribune). IGI Prize for Insurance Reporter of the Year, Helen Eni (BSJ). Union Bank Prize for Banking and Finance Reporter of the Year, Amodu Adebayo Joseph (Newswatch). Intercontinental Bank Prize for Capital Market Reporter of the Year, Nnorom Nkiruka Eucharia (Vanguard). Aviation Industry Reporter of the Year, Olumuyiwa Lucas (Tell). UBA Prize for Money Market Reporter of the Year, Tunde Niyi-Akinmade (Newswatch); Coca-Cola Prize for Brand and Marketing Reporter of the Year, Omoike Amina Omokhefue (Newswatch); BAT Prize for Industry Reporter of the Year, Olumuyi-

wa Lucas (Tell). Sonny Odogwu Prize for Business Reporter of the Year, Tony Manuaka (BSJ).

Nigerite Prize for Real Estate/ Construction Reporter of the Year, Azuh Maureen (The Punch). Nnamdi Azikwe Prize for Cartoonist of the Year, Cornelius Emenike (National Mirror). Beatrice Bassey Ita Prize for Female Reporter of the Year, Juliana Uche-Okobi (Tell). Prize for Editorial Writing of the Year (The Guardian).

The winners in the broadcast categories are: Radio Reporter of the Year, (Adebayo Solomon of FRCN Abuja); Radio Presenter of the Year (Pepple Ibifubara of FRCN Network); George Bako Prize for Radio Broadcaster of the Year Jones Usen of Radio Continental; Radio Production of the Year (Yewande Iwuoha of Raypower); Radio Programme of the Year (Dominician Nwabufo of VON); Television Reporter of the Year (Ayoola Kazeem of Channels).

The others are: Television Newscaster of the Year (Oluseun Olagunju of NTA); Television Programme Presenter (Yvonne Bassey of DSTV/AfricaMagic); Television Production of the Year (Ozioma Godwin Okoli); Television Drama of the Year (Greg Odutayo); Television Station of the Year (Channels) and Radio Station of the Year (RayPower).

Automatic Senatorial tickets: Presidency under pressure to review list Continued from page 4

President deliberately said he believes a “reasonable percentage” of the Senators should be returned.

The source said: “Since the outcome of the talks at the Villa filtered out, there had been pressure on the Presidency and leaders of the party. Everyone wanted to know the nitty-gritty of the

agreement. But it was really not a sealed deal at all.

“The party may still tinker with the list of those the Senate wanted back in 2015. You know by the Electoral Act, there are variables to consider before fielding a candidate for any elective post.

“If a Senator is lazy or unproductive or unpopular in his or

her Senatorial District, how do you foist him or her on the people?

“At least, Thursday session laid a foundation for the need to return some Senators to the Upper Chamber to enrich the 8th National Assembly.

Another source said the President and Muazu only made political concession and not an elec-

toral commitment to the Senators who came to the Villa.

It was learnt that PDP governors may meet with the President again this week on the pact with the Senators.

A governor, who spoke in confidence, said: “We have also decided to seek audience with the President on the real picture of the pact with the Senators.

“We are directly in touch with the grassroots and local dynamics. We know what people want and how the party can win in 2015. Abuja cannot determine winning formula at the state level.

“We are giving the President the benefit of doubt on this pact.

We want to hear from him. I k n o w between Sunday and Tuesday, we will have audience with the President.”

Chibok girls won’t stop Jonathan Continued from page 4

new our fate in the country?

We feel that what is more greater to the government is the safe return of these girls. And we are working for their safe return” Okon also declared that there was no monetary contribution from the Federal Government, adding that, “The issue of cost is an entire affair of the President, who has spoken to some of us, who are his friends and asked us to meet the cost of the declaration”.

INEC admits lapses in voter cards distribution Continued from page 4

“The Commission regrets the inconvenience caused members of the public by the initial hitches in the present exercise and pledges to attend to every eligible registrant within the scope of its outlined schedules. The Commission also restates its determination to ensure that the 2015 general election meets up to global best standards, and solicits the cooperation of all Nigerians in this regard.”

Idowu added that INEC is strongly committed to ensuring that every properly registered voter get his / her Permanent Voter Card (PVC) for the 2015 general election.

“This reassurance is against the backdrop of temporary challenges that have been experienced in the third phase of the distribution of PVCs in some states, which the Commission has been making vigorous efforts to remediate.

“INEC has since Friday, November 7th, 2014, been distributing PVCs to registered voters in nine states across the country

under the third phase of the exercise. Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) is scheduled to hold in the same states from Wednesday, November 12th to Monday, November 17th, 2014.

Similar exercises have already been conducted in 24 other states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the first and the second phases of the programme.

“The Commission deferred the distribution of PVCs in four other states it had earlier listed for this third phase because the cards for those states have not been fully delivered by printers.

It is partly for the same reason that the Commission rescheduled the distribution of PVCs in limited areas of Lagos and Nasarawa states. The outstanding cards will, however, be certainly distributed in good time before the 2015 general election.

“They are presently being produced and have been scheduled for distribution under the fourth phase of the exercise from Friday, November 28th to Sunday, November 30th, 2014.”

APC: it’s plot to rig Continued from page 4

Sokoto states, wondering why the exercise was better organised in states without a huge number of votes. ‘’We know their two-pronged game plan to skew the 2015 general elections in favour of the PDP. One is to mess up the collection of PVCs in states with the highest number of registered voters which also fall under the control of the APC, with the aim of suppressing the votes in those states. ‘’The second approach is to programme the voter’s registration exercise in those states, which also have a high number of people who are due for registration, so the states will not meet the requirement to participate in next year’s election since INEC would not have finished the voter’s registration process in those states. ‘’Going by the poor state of the registration machines which cannot register more

than 50 voters a day each; the non-available or non-functioning printers and other problems, INEC cannot obviously meet the deadline to register eligible voters in those states before the next elections ‘’The plan, therefore, is to postpone the elections in the states to a later date, so the PDPled federal government can then use the Ekiti formula that includes massive militarisation and widespread intimidation to prevent a free and fair elections in the states. That is why we believe that INEC’s shoddy PVC distribution exercise in those states constitute a programmed incompetence that was jointly formulated by INEC and the PDP,’’ It said.

The APC slammed INEC for resorting to lame excuses for botching the exercise, saying Nigerians are not interested in who got the contract to produce the cards but in being able to exercise their franchise during the forthcoming elections.

Boko Haram shows grip of town Continued from page 4

mentioning “brethren” in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Shishan (an Islamist term for Chechnya), Yemen, Somalia and “the Caliphate in Iraq and Syria.”

A graphic shown later includes a picture the IS group’s leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as well as a portion of the message his group issued on July 1 proclaiming a caliphate in Iraq and Syria.

Iraq yesterday was investigating whether Baghdadi was killed in air strikes by US-led coalition warplanes.

Nigeria maintains it is still negotiating with Boko Haram envoys in neighbouring Chad and that a disputed October 17 ceasefire declaration remains viable.

Violence has, however, continued and the Islamists are believed to control more than two dozen towns and villages in the Northeast.

“There is no truce between me and Nigerian tyrants,” Shekau said, dismissing the credibility of Danladi Amhadu, the purported rebel negotiator.

“This person Danladi... if he thinks he can, let him show his face. By Allah, we will kill him,” the Islamist leader said.

Row in Bayelsa over automatic ticket

Continued from page 4

goa/Kolokuma-Opokuma), Dr Stella Dorgu (Sagbama/Ekeremor) and Nadu Karibo (Ogbia).

But last Thursday, the deal was said to have altered the power equation in the state fuelling protests and pressure on the governor.

It was learnt that there had been pressure on the governor to reject the deal in spite of the fact that it would affect some loyalists of the President.

The anger of the stakeholders in Bayelsa allegedly stemmed from the audacity of some National Assembly members who conducted parallel ward congresses.

A source in Bayelsa, who spoke with reporters in Abuja yesterday said: “We are watching events as they unfold; I think at our end in

Bayelsa State, whatever agreement the president must have reached with the senators is unlikely to have any binding effect on us because Bayelsa State is peculiar.

‘When we heard the news, some of us tried to know from the governor if it was true but he assured us that none of the National Assembly members affected by the zoning will return even if an agreement has been reached in Abuja; in fact, he was very angry and livid.

“This matter is not for the president to discuss with the Senators because most of them, especially those from Bayelsa, cannot even win their wards.

“This time around, we will impress it on the president to stay away from this because we are tired of this back and forth.

“As far as we are concerned,

Abuja cannot decide for us in Bayelsa.

Here, we have a leader of the party who is the governor and self-seeking National Assembly members cannot hide under the presidency to return to their businesses under the guise of aspirations.

The state lawmakers led by the speaker, Hon. Kombowei Benson have also demanded automatic return ticket in 2015.

“They are trying to impose candidates on us in the state; we will no longer accept this trend.”

Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information Deacon Markson Fafegha has denied any knowledge of such moves by the governor to foist his cronies on the party. “To the best of my knowledge, the governor has provided a level playing field for every contestant in the party.”

THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

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PREMIERSHIP ...PREMIERSHIP ...

NATION SPORT

Premier League Discrimination 'is rife in top flight'

Blues’ boss rules out unbeaten season Chelsea

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HELSEA boss Jose Mourinho believes it would be virtually impossible to go through the entire Premier League campaign unbeaten.

The Blues came from behind on Saturday to claim all three points against Liverpool to strengthen their position at the summit, and to fuel talk of repeating Arsenal's feat of 2003-04 when no-one beat them.

Arsene Wenger's Gunners were dubbed 'Invincibles' that season, and now many experts are suggesting that Mourinho's side could follow in their footsteps. However, the 'Special One' is refusing to entertain the idea given the quality of the competition, even though his team boasts an impressive unbeaten run stretching all the way back to March in a league fixture.

When asked if Chelsea could avoid defeat between now

and May 24, Mourinho said: "No chance. "It's possible to be champions. We want to play for that, but in modern football I don't believe in going unbeaten all season.

"One day we will lose, but the next game we will win again.

We will play badly, but we will recover our game because we are a strong team."

The Blues currently find themselves four points above this season's surprise package Southampton in second place, and while the Portuguese coach is delighted with his players' progress, he is keen to keep everyone's feet firmly on the ground. He added: "I think we have a very good chance to win the title but I think we, Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Southampton are all still in the race. "All we can say is that we are the champions of autumn."

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OOTBALL is rife with a shocking level of "institutional discrimination", according to a think tank founded by a group of former Premier League players.

Jason Roberts is part of a think thank looking at discrimination within the game The Sports People's Think Tank (SPTT) will release a report in parliament on Monday exposing the prejudices faced by black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people looking to take up positions of authority in the game.

Figures published by the Professional Footballers' Association earlier this month showed BAME people currently fill just under four per cent of backroom staff positions in the Football League.

"Football has failed to complete the promise of true equality," Jason Roberts, a former Blackburn striker and a founding member of the

•Mourinho

think tank, told the Observer.

"The numbers point to a problem that any rightminded individual would be shocked at.

"Most disappointing is the game's overall refusal, up to this point, to engage in some dialogue which challenges the decision-makers and leadership of the game, rather than focusing on the victims of these practices prospective BME coaches and managers."

The research has been funded by Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) and may prompt renewed calls for 'the Rooney Rule', a regulation used in the NFL making it compulsory for employers to interview minority candidates for vacancies.

The SPTT is backed by PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor and also includes West Brom Under-21s development coach Darren Moore and former Birmingham defender Michael Johnson.

Break comes at good time for Villa, says Lambert

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STON Villa manager Paul Lambert feels the forthcoming international break comes at a good time for his side.

Villa halted a dismal run of six successive Premier League defeats with a goalless draw at West Ham on Saturday.

Having seen Nathan Baker carried off on a stretcher with a knee injury towards the end of the match at Upton Park, Lambert expressed hope that he will have more defensive options at his disposal when Villa host Southampton in their next fixture on November 24.

Right-back Alan Hutton has missed Villa's last three

•Lambert

games due to an ankle problem, but is expected to face Southampton, while Lambert also believes Philippe Senderos will benefit from time away with Switzerland.

Senderos came on as a late replacement for Baker against West Ham, after spending a month on the sidelines with a

thigh injury.

Lambert said: "Alan Hutton will be back I think after the international games. We'll get one or two lads hopefully back fit.

"Senderos will go away with his national team and get game-time as well. It's probably come at the right time for us regarding injuries."

Asked about the injury to Baker, Lambert added: "Hopefully it's not too bad as first feared. We'll see how he is." on there."

He added: "Another excellent performance from QPR, I thought we were great."

Carroll delighted with return

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EST Ham striker Andy Carroll has spoken of his

delight after making his longawaited return to action against Aston Villa on Saturday.

Carroll had not featured since May because of a heel problem, but was brought on as a late substitute as Sam Allardyce's men were held to a 0-0 draw by Villa.

The former Newcastle United and Liverpool man came close to marking his comeback with the winning goal, only to be frustrated as a flying one-handed save from Brad Guzan kept out his injurytime header.

Despite being denied by the Villa goalkeeper, Carroll was understandably thrilled to come to the end of his long road to recovery.

"It is a great feeling to be back out on the pitch," the 25-yearold told West Ham's official website. "It took a long time, a lot of hard work and I have to give credit to all of the medical staff for getting me back fit. It has been a long time and getting on the pitch is a great feeling.

"I was edging to get on a bit earlier, but the gaffer saved me for the last five minutes. I had a great chance and the keeper pulled off a great save.

"I had to make sure it was 100 per cent before I started doing anything. I had a couple of weeks after the surgery where I could not do anything, even go to the gym.

"With me being active, that was more annoying than

anything. Getting back in the gym, working hard, training and getting on the training pitch again is a great feeling, but getting out on the pitch again at Upton Park is even better."

The point moved West Ham up to fourth in the Premier League table and stretched their unbeaten league run to five matches.

And Carroll was quick to

•Van Persie

praise his team-mates for their performances in his absence.

"We have been playing really well and winning games we probably did not expect to," he added.

"The crosses which have been coming in from out wide have been fantastic and the lads have been getting on the end of them.

"We have a quality squad this year and it shows in the games."

Manchester United ace admits missing Ferguson

M

•Carroll

ANCHESTER United striker Robin Van Persie has confirmed comments by former teammate Rio Ferdinand in an autobiography about him taking the departure of former boss Sir Alex Ferguson are true.

Van Persie won the Football Writers Association Footballer of the Year and Professional Footballers Association Player of the Year for the 2011-2012 season playing with Arsenal when Manchester United enticed him to switch alegiances to them, and it appears Ferguson was a huge part of that.

Responding to the comments in Ferdinand’s book, Van Persie said, “Rio is a great guy.

He talks a lot but there is some truth in that.

“My decision to come to Manchester was partly because of the presence of Ferguson,

or excuse me, Sir Alex. And he told me he’d stay for another three years. I enjoyed his approach.”

Van Persie was expecting to still be playing under Ferguson this season, and may have felt that he was brought to the club under false pretences.

Although his first season at the club was a huge success, with Van Persie scoring 26 goals and playing a huge part in the team earning him the first Premier League title of his career, Van Persie would have been aghast to see his former club Arsenal set the early season pace as his side limped to seventh in the table under David Moyes.

It was believed that Van Persie would be happier under compatriot and former national team coach Louis Van Gaal, however his form has not yet reached the heights of previous seasons.

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

SPORT EXTRA Ogbeche scores goal No. 7

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X-NIGERIA international Bartholomew Ogbeche scored his seventh goal in the Dutch Eredivise on Sunday when Cambuur lost 4-2 at home to Ajax.

He has now scored seven goals in 12 league games.

Cambuur are eighth on the league table with 17 points from 12 games,while Ajax are second with 26 points from 12 games.

The former Middlesbrough striker scored in the 90th minute to end the game 4-2 after Cambuur were trailing 4-1.

E • Ogbeche

Pinnick wants more overseasborn players in Eagles

• Sidney Sam

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RESIDENT of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Amaju Pinnick has revealed plans to persuade more overseas born players with Nigerian roots to play for the country.

The West Africans have succeeded in persuading some of such players to represent them, but have also lost some others to their countries of birth.

Pinnick was speaking in a television interview when he

Sokari gets late Eagles’ call-up

posited that he and his board have already begun talking to the said players, with the aim of convincing them to represent Nigeria.

“One example of our midterm plan is that we have about twenty Nigerian players playing in the premier league but you’ve not seen them feature but we are talking to them already and we have to make them understand that they have to play for Nigeria. That is our medium term,” he said.

Nigeria have succeeded in luring the likes of Shola Ameobi, Sone Aluko and most recently, Hope Akpan to play for them.

But they have also lost the likes Gabriel Agbonlahor, Sidney Sam, and David Alaba to their countries of birth and Pinnick has stressed their commitment to convince some more players with Nigerian roots but born overseas to represent the reigning African champions.

XCITING Enyimba midfielder Kingsley Sokari alias 'Bobby' has been handed a late callup by Nigeria for the two remaining AFCON qualifiers against Congo and South Africa, officials announced.

Before now, assistant coach, Daniel Amokachi had said the player is as exciting as former Super Eagles’ skipper, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, a view also shared by his other assistants, Hyandonou Valere and Ike Shorunmu.

But he also put a caveat.

“We must allow our boss,

Stephen Keshi to make the final decision”.

Last Friday at the Uyo International Stadium inauguration game against the Black Meteors of Ghana, Keshi had a first-hand opportunity to assess the player and his final verdict was that the player is good enough for the main national team.

He subsequently ordered him on the plane to Abuja for the remaining two games and Bobby is presently at the Bolton White Apartment with the rest of the stars from the Nigerian league.

• Sokari

Eagles converge for all-important clash against Congo

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REPARATIONS for the make or break Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo Brazzaville in Point Noir is expected to get started on Monday following the arrival of invited Nigerian league stars to Abuja on Saturday, after a highly impressive 1-0 win over Ghana in the

maiden Restoration Cup at the ultra-modern Akwa Ibom International Stadium last Friday.

The players who came into camp with Head Coach Stephen Keshi, his assistants and other members of staff of the national team are goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim, Warri

RAHEEM LAWAL

We must give everything in Congo

• Lawal

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AHEEM Lawal has t o l d AfricanFootball.com Nigeria have to give everything they have on the artificial pitch in Pointe-Noire on Saturday to stay on course for a place at the 2015 AFCON. The Turkey-based midfielder said the match in Congo will go a long way in determining the Eagles quest to defend their title next year. He also spoke on his immediate plans.

Raheem, you have settled down very well now in Turkey and so what are your personal targets with your club Eskisehirspor this season?

That is to be a better player and make my team better and stronger than last season.That is if I finished the season with the team.

That’s a big hint you could quit Eskisehirspor before the end of the season?

There are interests from bigger teams in Turkey, Ukraine and Germany, but I can't disclose the clubs now because nothing has been agreed or concluded yet. I may quit Eskisehirspor in January.

You staged a comeback to the Super Eagles last month in a crucial AFCON 2015 qualifier against Sudan in Abuja and Nigeria won 31,how did it feel to be back in the team?

I am so happy to have

helped the team get back on track in our quest to qualify for the Nations Cup and defend our title.

Eagles are in a must-win situation for the next two AFCON games, do you see the team winning both games to qualify for the Nations Cup? I am sure we will qualify for the Nations Cup if we played the remaining two games the way we played against Sudan.

Many players would rather not play on an artificial pitch, but that is where the Eagles will play in Congo, are you prepared to play on such a pitch?

I am more than ready to play on any kind of pitch in Congo. We need that match more than anything now and we must be ready to give our best on any kind of pitch to win. Any player given the chance to represent Nigeria on that day must give everything to win the game no matter the conditions.

Who inspired you most on your return to the Super Eagles?

God almighty.

Coach Keshi was removed as Eagles coach, but he has since returned,what do you have to say about that?

Coach Stephen Keshi is like a father to me, he gave me the chance to represent my country. I am happy to play for my country. This is all I have to say. Nigerians should support the coach and the team.

You have played against top stars like Didier Drogba and Wesley Sneidjer in Turkey, what did both tell you after the games against them?

They were both impressed with my performance and told me I should put in more effort to be a bigger star because I have the talent.

How is your relationship with other Nigerian players in Turkey?

It is cordial and good.

Wolves skipper, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Solomon Kwambe, scorer of the epoch making goal in Uyo, Emem Eduok, Nasara United’s Tony Edjomari, Christian Osaghuna Ighodalo, Gbolahahan Salami and new comer Kingsley Sokari.

The players are nested at

their usual abode in Bolton White Apartment, Zone 7, Abuja and Keshi said all invited players should be in camp by latest Monday.

“We have no time for this game and the players know, so all of them must be here early enough for the trip to Congo”, he declared.

Hughes respects Moses' decision

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ITH Super Eagles’ winger Victor Moses declaring the he has a big future in the colours of Chelsea Football Club, Stoke City Football Club manager Mark Hughes insists he is not disturbed by the skillful player's recent pronoucement.

• Moses

The former Crystal Palace and Wigan Athletic forward is currently is on season long loan at Stoke City.

Since his arrival at the club, his performance has been commended by football pundits and followers.

“He's absolutely right in saying that he's still a Chelsea player,” said Hughes.

“Chelsea obviously wanted him to get his confidence levels up again and as we stand everybody is winning.

“Chelsea are seeing a player getting back up to form, we are delighted with what he's producing and Victor has certainly benefited from playing with us.

“We are not at the point where we are going to have conversations about Victor's future because it's not the right time.”

The 23-year-old, who scored his first goal for the Stoke City last weekend, believes he still has a future at Stamford Bridge and he is due to return after his loan spell.

GOTV BOXING NIGHT

Boxers to be insured

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HEAD of the Gotv Boxing Night, one of the partners, Custodian Life Assurance has revealed that there is a providing insurance cover worth N24million for the 12 boxers billed to fight on the night of 23 November, placing enormous value on the life of the boxers.

Making this feat known at a media parley, Chief Executive Officer/ Managing Director of Custodian Life Assurance Plc, Mr. Larry Ademeso, explained why his organisation decided to intervene in boxing, explaining that the insurance cover provided is part of the company’s partnership with GOtv to ensure that boxing, a sport which once made the country proud, is rescued from its decrepit state.

In his words ‘‘I have no doubt that the event, with the active support of organisations such as ours,

By Bowale Odukale will ignite the revival of boxing in Nigeria. There is no better way of demonstrating our commitment than the scale of insurance cover we are providing the boxers participating in this event to the tune of N24million, of course, the key dependency of our future commitment will be down to the success of this initial event. We surely have long term commitment towards noble initiatives,’’. However, some boxing legends praised Custodian for its great initiative, which they reckon will encourage the boxers to put in their best in the knowledge that they are insured.

Former Light heavyweight champion, Joe Lasisi, said he is delighted at the package announced

by Custodian and believes that it will elevate the status of professional boxing.

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

SPORT EXTRA CHUKWU DECLARES

Eagles can beat Congo

Mark fetes School Sports Federation • Pleads for understanding over inadequate facilities

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• Super Eagles and Dolphins FC midfielder, Emem Uduok celebrates with teammates Ighodaro Osaguona after scoring a goal against Ghana during their International Friendly match in Uyo, Akwa Ibom last weekend

F

ORMER Super Eagles’ Chief Coach Christian Chukwu has charged the Super Eagles to put up a strong showing away to Congo Brazzaville on Saturday and beat the host team to win the three points at stake which will brighten Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations slated for Congo.

Chuwhu told NationSport he was convinced that the Eagles would spring a surprise and beat Congo in their back yard and make qualification brighter for Nigeria.

“Firstly our players must realize the fact that the game away to Congo is a must win match which has no other alternative than that Nigeria must beat them on their home ground like they did to our team in Clabar too. The players must put their hearts into ensuring that everything is done on the pitch to win the match.

“The players must approach the Congo match even more that they did in the second half of our match against Sudan in Abuja. That urgency must be there and the determination

RESULTS

England - Premier League Sunderland 1 - 1 Everton Tottenham 1 - 2 Stoke City West Brom 0 - 2 Newcastle Swansea 2 - 1 Arsenal England - FA Cup Halifax 1 - 2 Bradford Blyth 4 - 1 Al’cham Braintree 0 - 6 C’esterfield Italy - Serie A Cagliari 1 - 1 Genoa Chievo 2 - 1 Cesena Empoli 2 - 1 Lazio Juventus 7 - 0 Parma Palermo 1 - 1 Udinese Fiorentina 0 - 1 Napoli Spain - Liga BBVA Sevilla 1 - 1 Levante Espanyol 1 - 1 Villarreal Valencia 0 - 0 Bilbao

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja and the will power to beat Congo without any doubt and fears must be there right from the start of the match to the end and I am very sure we will get the needed three points we are looking for in the match.

“Nigerians have lost hope in

qualification but the players must put up a good fight to surprise everybody like they did in South Africa during the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

That fighting spirit, patriotism and hard work must be repeated in Congo for Nigeria to get the all important three points in the match.

“We all know that we desperately need to win our remaining two matches away to Congo on Saturday and later at home to South Africa in Uyo next Wednesday. But I am confident that we will be in Congo for the 2015 AFCON”, the former Eagles handler told Nationsport.

NIGERIAN SPORTS AWARD

Supersports to beam live broadcast

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HE organisers of Nigerian Sports award, Unmissable Incentives Limited have sealed a partnership deal with Supersports -leading sports TV Channels for the production and live broadcast of the 3rd edition of the award billed for Muson Centre, Lagos on Thursday.

This was disclosed by Kayode Idowu, General Manager, Unmissable Incentives Limited after a partnership meeting with the leading Sports Channel in Lagos as part of activities towards a successful hosting of the biggest sport event in Nigeria as countdown

begins to the event to expected to bring together the crème de la crème in the Nigerian Sports circle.

According to Idowu, Nigerian Sports Award and SuperSports have sealed a partnership deal that will enable the leading Sports Channel that will ensure Supersports handle the digital coverage/production and live broadcast of the award gala night to the viewing pleasure of teeming sports fans in Nigeria and beyond.

“We are indeed very proud to announce that all arrangements have been concluded with one of our strategic partners

Supersports to handle the production and live broadcast of the event for 2 hours” Idowu said.

The General Manager for Supersports, Mr. Felix Awogu noted that Supersports is proud to partner with the organizers of Nigerian Sports Award to further recognise, reward and encourage excellence performance in Nigerian athletes.

Awogu noted that Supersports will continue to add value and support development of Sports in Nigeria through strategic partnership and alliance with relevant bodies such as Nigerian Sports Award.

ENATE president, David Mark on Saturday night pleaded with participants and leadership of School Sports Federation (NSSF) who are in Otukpo for the ongoing 7th edition of Nigerian Schools Sports Festival for understandingregarding the dearth of facilities in the host local government. He said hewill do something quickly to address the hardship the participants are going through. He pleaded that they should understand since Otukpo is only a local governmentand not yet fully developed as a state capital. For him, at the end of the festivaleverybody including the young students who are the future champions will seeevery need to be grateful. He promised that he will make it a huge success.

Senator Mark spoke on Saturday night while hosting the delegates and officials of the NSSFin a dinner. He said he will personally do his best to see to the comfort ofthe boys and girls throughout the competition. He said he is aware of the difficultiesbeing faced by the athletes but will do everything within his powers to addressmost of them since the most important aspect is to have the children happy andexhibit their God given talents.‘’ We all know that Oturkpois not a state capital yet; it is only a local government with its ownlimitations as far as sports facilities are concerned but l am assuring youthat with my support, the competitors will enjoy their stay in Oturkpo. I amaware of the difficulties you are all facing in Otukpo because some of ourfacilities are not up to international standard but this is school sports wherethe basic requirement is to have schools and playgrounds where the boys andgirls will compete.

There are no tartan tracks in Otukpo but we will make bestuse of the facilities available,” the senate president explained.

According tohim, sports remains the only instrument that unifies not only the entirecommunities but also the

• Mark

country at large and that hosting such competition ina local government like Otukpo will give the children the opportunity to interactwith other children from different backgrounds, cultures and socio economic environments.

Also speakingat the dinner, Benue State deputy governor, Mr. Stephen Lawani said that he isnot surprised that such a good festival is holding in Otukpo to honour thesenate president and that as an influential member of Benue State government hewill ensure that the state government play an active role beyond approval level. Although he claimed he was not aware of the competition until the dinner, heassured the NSSF delegation that he will brief governor Gabriel Suswan on thematter for urgent attention. The deputy governor said that he is not surprisedwith the commitment of David Mark on sports development, judging from his personalsupport morally and financially to sports especially golf and basketball. Theminister of Interior, Abba Moro commended the NSSF for awarding Otukpo thehosting right.

Those who were present at the dinner were leader of NSSF Mallam Ibrahim Muhammad, all officials of the NSSF including its past president Dr Olaiya, representative of sports minister and director grassroots sportsAlhassan Yakmut, his deputy Mrs Tayo Oreweme, NSC zonal coordinator (NorthCentral) Segun Akinlotan, wife and aides of the senate president.

Siasia kick starts U- 23 team screening today

C

HIEF Coach of the U- 23 national team, Samson Siasia will commence the screening exercise of his team at the Abuja National Stadium’s Goal Project Center today.

The former Super Eagles’ Coach who led the same team to the final of the Beijing, China Olympics 2008 has vowed to mould a team that would be a pride of all and he would start off the training schedule with the academy players around the country which is expected to last for a week.

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja Like he told NationSport it would be the turn of players from the Nigerian clubs that would be seen by Siasia the following week.

It was also confirmed that the Nigeria Football Federation has put in place all the needed and necessary logistics to ensure a successful screening exercise, Siasia would be joined by his First Assistant Coach Fatai Amoo to drill the players from the academies today.

More humiliation for Enyeama

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IGERIA’S goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama is having his worst spell with Lille after conceding twice against Reims in the French Ligue 1. This comes after the 3-0 humiliation suffered in the Europa league to Everton, bringing it to five goals against the reliable goal tender.

Enyeama has only kept two clean sheets in his last 10 games, a situation which has seen Lille

drop to 14th on the Ligue 1 table with 16 points.

Last season, the Super Eagles’ captain kept 11 clean sheet totaling 1,062 minutes a new club record, but minutes short of the all time Gaetan Huard all time clean sheet record in the Ligue 1.

His fine form from last season and a above average World Cup campaign has lead to rumours of a potential bid from Liverpool and Sunderland for his services.

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THE NATION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014

NEWS

Nigeria ’ll not break up, say Uduaghan, Oritsejafor

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•L-R: Secretary of Conference, Methodist Church Nigeria, Rt. Rev. Dr. Chibuzo Raphael Opoko, His Eminence Dr. Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu Uche, Bishop of Osogbo Diocese, Rt. Rev. Amos Oluwakayode Ogunrinde and Bishop of Evangelism and Discipleship, Methodist Church Nigeria, Rt. Rev. Edoka Amuta after the consecration and investiture of Rev. Ogunrinde as Bishop of Osogbo Diocese at the Methodist Church of the Trinity, Tinubu, Lagos...yesterday

ELTA State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, have assured Nigerians that the next year’s election would not break up the country, contrary to predictions.

Uduaghan and Pastor Oritaejafor spoke at the opening ceremony of the 2014 Jubilee World Festival of Word of Life Bible Church, Warri, which had “Arise 2015” as its theme.

The governor said: “No matter the external influence, Nigeria will not break up in 2015.

“There are predictions that Nigeria will break up in 2015, but Nigeria cannot break up in 2015”.

“2015 is going to be a challenging year. In 2015, a lot is going to happen but, we shall overcome,” he added.

Uduaghan noted that Nigerians have resolved to remain united as members of a corporate entity, stressing: “We have decided in Nigeria that we

From Shola O’NEIL, SouthSouth Regional Editor

shall be one, all the parties in Nigeria have agreed that Nigeria will not break up.”

He praised the Pastor Oritsejafor and the Word of Life Bible Church for organising the Annual Jubilee Festival, which attracts men of God from different parts of the world, stating that the festival has brought blessings to Warri, Delta State and Nigeria.

“Papa is the father of all Christians in Nigeria and this fatherhood is one of the most stressful fatherhood; the stress of protecting Christianity in Nigeria, protecting Christians in Nigeria against those who does not wish us well is not an easy one.

“There has never been a time in the history of this nation that we are where we are today. We should be on our knees and pray fervently for Papa. He needs our prayers and for people who can go beyond prayers, please do what you can for him to succeed in what

he is doing.”

Pastor Oritsejafor, saying “nothing can break up Nigeria”,added that anybody wishing the breakup of the country would not have his desires fulfilled.

He said that the festival would be sustained annually

by God’s grace to win souls for Christ and prepare Christians for the years ahead.

Delivering a sermon at the occasion, Bishop Wayne Malcolm, who came from London, admonished Christians to always know that God keeps promises, stating that there were three levels of spiritual maturity: title children, young men and fathers, signifying different levels of spiritual maturity.

“As little children, we ask what can God do for me today. Young men will ask, what can God do through me? While fathers ask, what can God do? It is not about what God can do for me or what God can do through me, fathers are concerned about you,” he said.

PDP suspends Cross River local govt congress indefinitely

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•Director, Centre For Competitiveness and Strategy, Lagos Business School, Dr. Tunji Adegbesan (left); Chief Executive Officer, Aircon Nigeria Limited Mr. Yemi Idowu and Director, Public Affairs and Communication, Coca Cola Foundation, Mr Clem Ugorji at the annual conference of Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ) in Lagos

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the weekend announced the indefinite suspension of the Cross River State local government congresses scheduled for November 8.

This followed a court injunction stopping the conduct of the congresses.

At a media briefing at the Transcorp Hotels in Calabar, a member of the Electoral Committee, Manasseh Abu, also cited security concerns for the suspension.

The PDP chieftain said he was speaking on behalf of

the party’s national secretariat.

Abu, who was flanked by the PDP State Chairman Ntufam John Okon and other party executive member, addressed angry party faithful at the media briefing.

He said: “I came here this evening to address you on the scheduled national delegates’ elections that would have held today. I stand before you to announce that the elections are hereby postponed. This is consequent upon a court injunction that we received as we came in today.”

The text of his statement reads: “Consequent upon the interim injunction issued by the High Court of Cross River State and the escalating security situation with regards to the above elections, the committee constituted by the national secretariat of our party hereby suspends the elections until further notice. Consequently, therefore, the materials for the exercise will be deposited with the state police headquarters here in Calabar, awaiting further directive from our national secretariat.

Man killed trying to disarm robbers

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•From left: Cross River State Deputy Governor, Mr Efiok Cobham; Chesang Stella, Uganda (second); Kassahun Genet Yalew,Ethiopia (first position) and Ababel Yesshaneh, Ethiopia(Third) at the 10th Obudu Mountain race for women in Calabar

MAN identified simply as Nwachukwu was on Saturday night shot dead by robbers in his failed attempt to disarm one of the hoodlums.

The man was reportedly killed at his Iguosa home in Ovia North East Local Government Local Government Area.

It was learnt that that robbers entered the building when the victim’s wife went out at 5.30am to get some water.

The robbers were said to

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

have ordered her inside and demanded for her gold and other valuables.

The victim’s daughter, who spoke in confidence for security reasons, said her father was killed when he attempted to disarm one of the robbers.

She said: “My mother opened the door to go and fetch some water when the robbers followed her inside.

They told my daddy to remove the gold on his neck

but my daddy said it was not gold.

“My daddy ran inside and the robbers asked my mummy to switch on the light. When she switched on the light, my daddy began to struggle with one of them.

The robbers shot my daddy.

That was how my daddy died.”

The victim was taken to a mortuary in a white Hilux van belonging to the police.

Efforts to get the confirmation from the police were unsuccessful.

Senator to Uyo residents: support ex-SSG Udom for governor From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

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•From left: Son of the late Deaconess Agnes Ukeseh and Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Ima Niboro; his wife, Jumoke; first son, Bishop Columba Niboro; daughters, Mrs Sarah Ajiboye and Grace Owraigbo, at the funeral thanks giving service for their mother, Deaconess Ukeseh, at Emevor, Isoko North Local Government, Delta State...yesterday

HE senator representing Uyo District in the National Assembly, Ita Enang, has urged the residents to support the governorship ambition of a former Akwa Ibom State Secretary to Government (SSG), Udom Emmanuel.

Enang, who addressed reporters at his country home in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, also supported the zoning of the governorship ticket to Eket Senatorial District.

He explained that as the senator representing Uyo, his job was to lead the people on which way to follow.

The senator pleaded with his kinsmen to support Udom, adding that he had consulted widely on the matter.

He said: “I want to plead with the people of Uyo Senatorial District. We should join Eket, Ikot Ekpene and together work for Eket Senatorial District to produce the next governor of Akwa Ibom State.

“I pray that my friends, associates and those who held different opinions from mine should show understanding. They should because the people of Eket are also entitled to have a feel of the leadership of this state’’.

THE NATION MONDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2014

63

NEWS EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORMS

COLLECTION OF VOTER CARDS

• A lawyer, Mr Joe Agi (SAN) (left) returning his nomination form for the Cross River State governorship to National Organising Secretary, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha in Abuja...at the weekend

• Alhaji Mustapha (right) receiving the nomination form from Delta State governorship aspirant and a member, House of Representatives Ndudi Elumelu at the party’s headquarters in Abuja... at the weekend. With them is Elumelu’s wife Ada.

•Senator representing Lagos East District Gbenga Ashafa (left) collecting his permanent voters card at Ibeju-Lekki... at the weekend. With him are Onitedo of Oke Odo Iwerekun, Oba Tajudeen Elemoro (second left) and others.

PHOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

•Imo State former governor and a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant Ikedi Ohakim (left) submitting his form to Alhaji Mustapha... at the weekend.

Lagos House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji and his wife Pastor Mayowa –– collecting their cards in Ikeja.

•Chaplain, Chapel of Resurrection, University of Ibadan, Very Rev. Timothy Olatunji (left), praying for members of University community at the University of Ibadan Convocation Service in Ibadan...yesterday.

•Senior Special Assistant to Governor Rauf Aregbesola on Community Forum, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye (second right) collecting his Expression of Interest Form to contest House of Assembly seat from Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Osun State chapter, Prince Gboyega Famodun (second left) at the party’s secretariat, Osogbo. With them are Secretary, Rasaq Salensile (left) and Treasurer Adesegun Olanibi.

•Akwa Ibom State Peoples Democratic Party governoship aspirant Benjamin Okoko and his wife during the submission of his nomination form in Abuja.

• Zonal Head of Operations, Zone-2 and representative of Zonal Commanding Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps(FRSC), Mr. Charles Aborchi, Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Kufre Ekanem, Corporate Relations Director/Company Secretary, Guinness, Mr. Sesan Sobowale and Marketing Director, SAB Miller, Mr. Chris Wulffe-Caesar at a Media briefing on” Drive Alcohol Free Campaign” organized by an Initiative of Beer Sector Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria held at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE.

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TODAY IN THE NATION

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL 9 NO 3,028

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

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VEN for those who cannot stand the politics of Godswill Akpabio, they cannot resist plaudits for his governance of Akwa Ibom State. Last week we saw legacy in the grace of a stadium he has built in Uyo, the state capital. The sheer aesthetics, detail and vision of it benumb. It is not only about comfort but also magnificence. It is sports facility as pride.

This is what oil money has wrought, and we all should be proud. Akpabio is also planning a specialist hospital that will perform an open-heart surgery live on national television linking hospitals across the globe through the worldwide web.

President Goodluck Jonathan was happy as the stadium was declared open. Never mind that the President did not know that the nation’s football team is no longer called Green Eagles. He made the mistake once and he was forgiven, but he made it at least once more. He was still ensconced in the past.

But that is not the point here. Dr. Jonathan was justifiably proud that such an edifice came into being on his watch. My question is, if a state government can perform such a feat with oil money accruing to a state, what has he done in close to six years in the saddle as the leader of an oil-rich nation?

The centre carries the lordly share of our oil patrimony. The oil-producing states are entitled only to 13 per cent. The centre and the rest of the country share the balance.

Now, has the Federal Government done anything in terms of legacy close to the Uyo Stadium? Even the National Stadium in Abuja is in tatters. It is a feat more for political rallies than a third-rate international derby.

If the President could go to Uyo to open such a marvel, he should have something to say about what he has done.

Some of the major federal roads in the country are turning into the beginnings of craters and vehicles are like mice to their traps. I would like to know what the President’s grand vision is for this country.

As I write this piece, many of the states cannot pay their bills. They owe salaries to civil servants because the balance sheet is red with danger signals. We are borrowing to fight a war that we know little about. We glowed to the world that we were on the cusp of an agreement to end the war against Boko Haram and free the Chibok girls.

The world allowed itself to hope. Some of us, including In Touch, thought that some good might come out of this incompetence.

But where do you sign a ceasefire deal and the other side is still gun happy and its jaws wide open for human flesh? The last time such a thing happened was during the Sec-

RIPPLES I TOOK TO ARMED ROBBERY AFTER BEING ROBBED –Suspect

SAM OMATSEYE

IN TOUCH

intouchnation@gmail.com 08054501081(sms only) Twitter: @samomatseye

Leader without example ‘ With the collapse of the North under the pounding of Boko Haram, should the President not resign?

He should not hide under the performance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors. He should show example

•Dr. Jonathan

ond World War. The British Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain, naïve and pacific, signed a peace act with Hitler. Winston Churchill decried the move as an act of shame. He yelled that Hitler was the mad man of Europe. By thinking himself as the second coming of Benjamin Disreali who signed the pact of Vienna, he echoed his predecessor and crooned that he had brought “peace in our time.”

Meanwhile, the demented Fuhrer taunted from Berlin. “Our enemies are tiny little worms,” he exulted among his fellow cohorts. “I met them the other day in Munich.”

The same Hitler rolled his formidable tanks into Poland.

Just as we were sitting with phantoms of Boko Haram negotiators, their leader

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OU must listen to Sheikh Abubakar Gumi. The Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, who says he is the third voice, has just thrown a bombshell. He has asked both President Goodluck Jonathan and Gen. Muhammadu Buhari to jettison their ambition to contest the 2015 presidential election. He thinks blood would flow if both of them contested. But this is not why we must listen; Sheikh Gumi’s prognosis for next year is as ominous as it is deep, rich, courageous and refreshing.

But Hardball is not particularly concerned about the two contestants and Gumi’s homily to them. They have both collected the nomination forms anyway. No, I will take that back; their heedless supporters have foisted the forms on them. As their supporters will tell you, only an earthquake will stop them from running or even winning. But our interest here is Gumi’s insight, his wits and leadership nuggets; the type they don’t teach you in business schools. Let’s call them The Gumi Leadership Principles:

The Principle of the Third Voice:

OKAY, YOU MEAN ARMED ROBBERY IS INFECTIOUS LIKE EBOLA...EHN?

‘The PDP must purge itself of this ruinous notion that it will continue to disregard the sensibilities of its members at the grassroots without dire repercussions. It is no longer business as usual now there is a strong opposition party’ EMEKA OMEIHE

“The nation needs a third voice, a voice that is neutral. To be honest, people are afraid of the

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bloomed darkly in a video taunting our leader. He mocked us saying he had no such deal for ceasefire. He had sent the girls as Islamic brides to his fellow marauders. Meanwhile, cities are falling in the North, people are fleeing and dying. The giant of Africa has become a sickly bird trapped in a pond and cannot fly while a crocodile sidles closer for the slaughter. The Northeast is an emergency, not only for the people who live there, but also for Jonathan. The nation ought to declare an emergency on the Jonathan Presidency. It is the government that needs salvation. It has done many things that ordinarily should force it to resign.

Only recently it glossed over the $15 million moral disaster when his government in cahoots with shadowy figures ferreted the money outside the country. Yet the government blusters. It claims to be performing.

HARDBALL

He has ads and statements comparing himself to Obama and Lee kwan Yu and Mandela and claiming to achieve so much. It even claims that the Lekki Bridge in Lagos erected by the governor of example, Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, is his achievement. We can recall that his government delayed that project because they did not want Fashola to erect it over what they claimed was their waterway.

It does so because, for most part, Nigerians love good governance less than sentiment.

Those who like Jonathan say he is their son and he answers to the same God as they, and God placed him there. So he can sin all he likes. And many a religious shyster line up behind him and anoint him with false oil and invoke apocryphal scripture in his favour. So they can steal, but they do so in the name of God. They misgovern in the name of tribe. It is their pride. They also say those others who governed in the past did not do better. It is their turn to bungle. Let them have their own opportunity for disaster. Never mind their personal lives are not better. They are true believers. They are sacrificial lambs for God and tribe. Let him be the rich man and they his Lazarus of the crumbs.

Hence no one is asking whether they still eat cassava bread in Aso Rock as the President vowed over a year ago after billions spent on that project. The agriculture minister, gung-ho with statistics and swanky with bow tie, should still tell us how many Nigerians eat that bread and in what store to obtain it. Investigations show that even the socalled cassava bread had only five per cent cassava. He has spent so much money and time and other resources on power. But it has been a disaster. He gave the DISCOs to cronies. They bought them in order to eat but they discovered it was to work. They started yelling. This is not a contract that you take and play lazy. Now they want to bilk the consumers with tariffs without performing.

Neville Chamberlain resigned after his socalled peace deal with Hitler failed. With the collapse of the North under the pounding of Boko Haram, should the President not resign?

He should not hide under the performance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors. He should show example. That is the concept of federalism. It abides a strong centre, and that is why a lot more resources abound there. The President controls over 55 per cent of our budget. James Madison, the apostle of American federalism that we copy, fought with other founding fathers like Patrick Henry, to ensure that a strong centre guarantees the flowering of the states. As the fountainhead at the federal centre, he should show some example.

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Gumi’s leadership principles government (read Jonathan). So nobody can speak to the government directly. People are also afraid of Buhari’s supporters because most of them are not well educated, they are also irrational and sentimental.” Lesson: before you venture out, have you heard the Third Voice, that little voice of caution that is always lurking at the corner in the affairs of man?

The principle of The Introvert as a Bad Leader: “The Prophet (SAW) said that he (the introvert) will live alone and die alone and will be resurrected alone. He didn’t know how to go along with the community. So anybody who is an introvert is not fit for leadership.”

Dear reader, Hardball will take the liberty to rework the above phrase of the cleric to read: ‘the introvert will chop alone and die alone’.

Yes, would you believe that the cleric spoke about being generous even with the almighty ‘security vote’ for pacifying people who must be pacified and making people happy generally? Isn’t that the art that irrepressible Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti has mastered and deployed to spook the

urbane Kayode Fayemi: going to the beer parlour; eating amala, boli, guguru and epa with your people. Both Jonathan and Buhari seem introverted aren’t they? Lesson: never run for an elective office if you are introverted and a chop alone person

The Principle of the Pharaoh Syndrome or the Exaggerated Persona:

Of course we all know the story of the Egyptian king who was obdurate and would not heed the voice of reason and let the Israelites go. And for the overrated person, the cleric illustrated this principle with the story of Ali Ibn Abu Talib (cousin of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He narrated how people liked him so much they killed the Khalifa and made him Khalifa. Only to find out that he couldn’t do what they wanted and in the end, they turned around and killed him. When people elevate people beyond human capacity, it is Islamic to show his human weakness.

Lesson: Do not be overly mesmerised or infatuated by the supposed greatness of any leader, look closely and there is a portion of clay to his feet.

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