November 14, 2014 by The Nation

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Ekiti tribunal ends trial

NEWS Page 9

•Court to get addresses Dec. 17

News Alaafin: I’m not against Ajimobi P8 Sports Keshi expects ‘hostile’ Congo P41 Business NDIC pays N6.82b to depositors P55 •www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 9, NO. 3032 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

Jonathan has abandoned Nigerians, says APC •PDP: our govt a success

•SEE ALSO PAGE 6

From Yusuf Alli and Tony Akowe, Abuja

LL Progressives Congress (APC)Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun yesterday said President Goodluck Jonathan has abandoned Nigerians and cannot lay claim to a re-election ticket. He dismissed Jonathan’s speech at Tuesday’s declaration as empty and full of voodoo statistics. Continued on page 4

N150.00 •From left: Chief Finance Officer, Oando PLC, Mr. Olufemi Adeyemo; Managing Director, Vetiva Capital Management Limited, Mr. Chuka Eseka; Group Chief Executive, Oando PLC, Mr. Adewale Tinubu, at the signing of Oando PLC’s N50 Billion Rights Issue in Lagos...yesterday.

•INSIDE: VARSITIES SHUN N7B RESEARCH FUND P7 WAY OUT OF OIL PRICE SLUMP, BY TINUBU P4

Run for president, 80 Reps, associates tell Tambuwal Speaker to receive APC’s form today

From Yusuf Alli and Tony Akowe, Abuja

OUSE of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal is likely to run for president. Eighty members of the House yesterday obtained the nomination form, which will be presented to Tambuwal today in Abuja. He could accept or decline the offer. Some of the Representatives stormed the National Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) at about 5pm to collect the form from the party’s National Organising Secretary, Senator Osita Izunaso. Those mandated to get the form were Yakubu Dogara(Bauchi), Idris Wase (Plateau), Solomon Olamilekan (Lagos), Zakary Mohammed (Kwara), Emmanuel Jime(Benue), Abiodun Faleke, Samuel Adejare(Lagos) and Peter Ede(Ebonyi). For about 30 minutes, the delegation was with the National Organising Secretary. After the paper work, the Representatives were ambushed by reporters but they refused to speak with the press. A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “We came around to collect the presidential nomination form for the Speaker because we believe he has the requisite qualifications and integrity to lead the nation in 2015. “Those behind this project include 80 mem-

Continued on page 4

WILL THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15 EVER RETURN?

•Cameroonian soldiers patrolling in Amchide, northern Cameroon, one kilometre from Nigeria…yesterday.

PHOTO: AFP

Hunters liberate Mubi from Boko Haram fighters STORY ON PAGE 2

Governor attributes it all to God Troops head for commercial town

•SOCIETY P13 •POLITICS P15 •SPORTS P24 •BRANDS P26 •AGRIC P38 •FOREIGN P58

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

•President Goodluck Jonathan (middle), with Catholic Bishops among them, John Cardinal Onaiyekan (eighth left), Bishop Hassan Kukah (third left), Bishop Alaba Job (fifth right), Bishop Ignatus Kaigama (sixth right) during their visit to the State House, Abuja...yesterday PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

Jonathan has abandoned Nigerians, says APC Continued from page 1

He asked Nigerians not to give PDP which had savaged the nation for 15 years another opportunity to “finish off” Nigeria. He said if given the chance, APC will rebuild Nigeria and reclaim all seized territories from Boko Haram insurgents. Oyegun, who made the submissions on the state of the nation at a briefing in Abuja, said the APC will make history in the next few months by defeating the ruling party. He insisted that APC will conduct the affairs of the nation “differently and better than the PDP.” He listed the party’s priorities as follows:Uniting Nigerians; openness and transparency; upholding the Rule of Law; defence of the territorial integrity of the nation:motivate and equip the Armed Forces; true federalism; to rebuild and expand infrastructure; investment in human capital among others. He said: “The 2015 election will be decided on the character and leadership qualities of the Nigerian President. The Commander-in-Chief should also be “Consoler-in-Chief” bringing comfort and succor to our people in time of grief and distress. “You heard two days ago President Jonathan saying that good leaders do not walk away from the people, sadly though

APC rattled by Jonathan’s declaration, says PDP

HE Peoples Democratic Party has said that Tuesday’s declaration by President Goodluck Jonathan rattled the All Progressives Congress (APC), with the “overwhelming support” shown by Nigerians. A statement yesterday by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, said instead of accepting the successes already acknowledged by Nigerians, APC leaders went into shadowboxing and mischievous propaganda in a failed attempt to score a cheap political point. The ruling party said such a lurid epithet on the APC defied the logic of an alternative while exposing it as hypocritical and opportunistic. It called for objectivity and forthrightness from the political class, especially the opposition as the campaigns for the 2015 general elections begin in earnest. It berated the APC for always seeking to gain political capital from the insecurity challenges in the nation, adding that Nigerians, by their massive support on Tuesday, showed that they know the truth and are solidly behind the President. the statement is true, our President who wants another four years does not show evidence of sympathy for hundreds of thousands of our fellow citizens who are now Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) as a result of the occupation of their land by Boko Haram. “He brings no relief or comfort to those living under the reign of terror. About 50 young Nigerian School Children were killed and several others injured in Potiskum just a few days before the extravaganza show of his declaration.

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

The statement said notwithstanding that he defied the expectations of the terrorists and their sponsors to go ahead with the declaration a day after the Potiskum bombing, the President and the PDP stand by the mourning families as his disposition, speech and mobilising of over 100,000 Nigerians in prayers at the event clearly showed. It added that for the APC to cry wolf over this declaration, which was scheduled almost a month before the bombing, meant the opposition party was either lacking in institutional memory or suffering from a deliberate amnesia. The statement continued: “Nigerians may recall that on the 20th of May, 2014, there was a twin bomb blasts in the city of Jos, killing 118 people and wounding at least 56 others. However, this tragedy on the nation did not

“Yet we do not hear of a Presidential visit to the families of the victims, a pattern that has become usual. Our President lives in his comfort zone, content to utter words, and ‘minutes of silence’ that have no meaning to the victims. ”The President has abandoned the Nigerian people. We should end the journey with President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 and elect a leader who will be part of our lives and lead with courage and empathy.” Oyegun also said Jonathan has nothing new to offer since he

Continued on page 60

could not fix the epileptic power sector and address the insecurity nationwide. He said the President’s declaration speech was full of voodoo statistics and excuses for failure. He added: “ Two days ago, you heard President Goodluck Jonathan announce himself as the candidate of the PDP and asked Nigerians for another four years as President. You heard a lot of claims, misrepresentations and voodoo statistics, none of which can stand the barest scrutiny. Disregard them! Continued on page 57

‘Run for president’ Continued from page 1

bers of the House of Representatives, friends and associates of the Speaker from the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory. “We refused to disclose our mission to the press because we want to formally present the nomination form to him on Friday (today). He has the right to accept or reject the offer.” Another source said: “We waited for this long because we were busy consulting some opinion leaders in all parts of the country. The consultations took us about three months. “The Speaker is cosmopolitan, a man of peace and a peculiar leader who can be a source of unity for all Nigerians. He has the wisdom, the patience and the vision to lead this country.” Responding to a question, the source added: “We are aware that some respected leaders of our party are aspiring to be APC presidential candidate in 2015. “What we have done is to make Tambuwal part of the list to widen choices for party members. This is without prejudice to the aspiration of all these aspirants who are eminently qualified as well to be president.” The Speaker’s Special Adviser on Media, Imam Imam, confirmed that some members of the House bought a form for Tambuwal. He said: “Earlier today, some

friends and political associates of the Speaker notified him that they have bought a presidential nomination form for him”. The collection of the form for Tambuwal was however with a tinge of drama between the National Organising Secretary of APC, Osita Izunaso and reporters. The drama went thus: Is it true that some members of the House of Reoresentatives came to your office to obtain a nomination form for Speaker Aminu Tambuwal? I am not aware and cannot confirm it. But some members of the House of Representatives just left your office. What was their mission? They came and we had a very useful meeting and they promised to come back tomorrow morning. What was the meeting about? We had to discuss about the future of the party as it concerns the House of Representatives and they are coming back here in the morning and we are looking at the time table, the overall timetable for the party. In your record, has Aminu Tambuwal collected presidential nomination form? No as at 4.00pm today (Thursday). What has happened after 4pm? Izunaso, who was clad in a grey Safari, burst into laughter.

Hunters liberate Mubi from Boko Haram fighters

UNTERS and juju men claimed yesterday to have retaken Mubi, Adamawa State’s second largest town and commercial engineroom from Boko Haram insurgents. Governor Bala Ngilari confirmed that the locals had taken back the town – a development he attributed to the handiwork of God. He said:”The insurgents have been flushed out of Mubi and are on the run, God is in this business of security in Adamawa State. You know in the last one week or so, the government has decided to be working with the vigilante group “Yan Baka”. Local hunters and vigilantes have been working hand in hand.” Boko Haram held sway in the town and neigbouring towns since October 28, installing an amir and hoisting their flag. The insurgents renamed Mubi ‘Madinatul Islam’. The hunters killed the amir and uprooted the sect’s flags. The hunters reportedly took back Maiha on Tuesday and Mubi yesterday, according to witnesses who spoke to reporters in Yola on the telephone. But there was no independent confirmation of the hunters’ heroic act. The hunters were said to have killed the Boko Haram Emir in

Military promises to retake territories from Boko Haram

HE military told senators yesterday that soldiers will take back territories seized by Boko Haram insur-

gents. Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, who represented Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh at a parley with the Senate Committee on Defence, was quoted as saying that the military would restrategise to recover lost grounds. The committee summoned the service chief over reports of towns falling into the hands of insurgents and soldiers retreating. But the meeting was almost marred by a disagreement between the committee members and the Army chief over whether Gen. Minimah should make a remark or not before the meeting went into a closeddoor session. The chairman of the committee, Senator George Thompson Sekibo, gave the synopsis of the meeting whose agenda is “very loaded”. He noted that while politicians were From Barnabas Manyam, Yola

Mubi – a man called Shuaibu Dan America, a prominent kerosine distributor in Mubi who aided the takeover of the town by the sect. Thousands of hunters were said to have been mobilised for the battle against the sect. The hometown of Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Sanni Onogu and Tony Akowe, Abuja

busy scheming for the 2015 election, insurgents were having a field day especially in the Northeast. He informed the Army Chief that Nigerians were getting impatient and irritated not only with the military but also with the government and those who represent them at various levels. He added: “I believe that we are trying our best but is our best the best we can offer? What is happening is becoming increasingly difficult to explain to Nigerians. We want to be told what is happening. The insurgents are having a field day. “We are aware that they (the government) is releasing your funds to you because you have not complained. We also approved $1billion for the President to purchase arms and ammunitions to fight Boko Haram. We are aware that your budget is being released to you. If you have difficulties you should tell us. “The spate of insurgency, the way and manner the insurgents are taking areas, is

Alex Badeh, which is five kilometers from Mubi, was also declared free of the sect, whose fighters reportedly fled from the hunters. Many people who were driven from Mubi were jubilating when the news was broken in Yola. One of the juju men who led the battle, Mr. Young Moris, said

getting worrisome. We want to know what is happening. We also want to know the issue of the reported ceasefire. We want to know whether there was actually any ceasefire. “We want to know whether there was a dialogue, the stage of the dialogue, if any, because few days after the announcement of the ceasefire, the insurgents struck and have continued to strike. “At the last meeting, we were told that the insurgents have captured seven local government areas. The CDS confirmed that and asked that they should be given some time to liberate the captured areas. “We want to know where we are. We are approaching election year; are we going to conduct election in the Northeast under the dire security challenge? These are our concerns and the concerns of Nigerians.” Sekibo then asked Gen. Minimah to throw light on the issues he highlighted. Gen. Minimah took a measured breath and said: “I came to interface with the Senate Committee on Defence; can the press

on the telephone that the Boko Haram fighters were on the run towards Hong and Gombi. Sources in Hong and Gombi local government areas said Boko Haram men came into their towns, causing chaos. People scampered for safety. A local government source, who pleaded for anonymity said: “About 30 minutes ago,

Continued on page 60

Boko Haram fighters were in Hong town, shooting sporadically into the air as they passed by. This caused heavy traffic jams as people began running in various directions”. Yesterday, troops weapons were seen moving towards Mubi. An eye witness, Shallangwa, told reporters: “I saw many of

•Air Chief Marshal Badeh

the sect’s members running away, hanging their guns without shooting. Some of them stopped along Maiha Road, bought recharge cards and were making calls.” Reports from Mubi said the hunters recaptured the 234 Army Battalion base and other strategic security formations, which fell into the hands of the insurgents. All the flags hoisted by the insurgents were uprooted by the hunters, it was learnt. Residents said the palace of the Emir of Mubi, which had been converted to the spiritual headquarters of the insurgents, had been taken over.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

•Managing Director, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim; former Minister of National Planning Dr Shamsudeen Usman and NDIC Board Chairman Ambassador Hassan Adamu at the NDIC 25th Anniversary Lecture and Book Presentation in Abuja...yesterday.

•Chairman, UBA Capital Plc, Mr. Chika Mordi and Group CEO, UBA Capital Plc, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sanni at the investiture of Mrs Sanni as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) at the 2014 CIS Conference & Investiture of Fellows in Lagos.

•From left: Associate Managing Director/Head, Relationship Management, Moody's Investors Service,, Mr. David Aldrich; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo; Senior Vice President, Business Development, Moody's Investord Service, Mr. Michael Korwin; Vice President, Sub-Saharan African, Moody's, Mr. Akintunde Majekodunmi; and Senior Vice President, Financial Institutions Group, Moody's, Mr. Constantinos Kypreos, when the Moody team visited he bank... on Wednesday.

•From left: Senior Brand Manager - Gulder, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Onyeka Okoli, winner, Gulder Ultimate Search 11 Viewers' Choice, Otto Canon, Managing Director and CEO, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Nicolaas Vervelde, winner, Gulder Ultimate Search 11, Chinedu Ubachukwu, Marketing Director, Walter Drenth, and Brand Manager - Gulder, Seun Lawal at the official prize presentation ceremony to winners of automobiles, held at the Nigerian Breweries Plc. headquarters, Iganmu, Lagos... on Wednesday.

Slump in oil prices: A progressive way out A

By Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

WASH in the great tide of politics, we must not forget why politics can be a noble endeavor. It leads to governance. When done correctly, governance can reform a nation and improve the lot of the people. In the hands of the ignorant and the mean, governance cast abundant misfortune upon a nation and upon the welfare of its citizens. This commentary concerns governance and policy more than it does politics. I offer it to generate debate on an important economic issue. No matter who is in power, we must do whatever is in our capacity to do to steer the nation away from economic woe. The people have suffered too much hardship already. Neither side of the political divide should seek to purchase transient advantage at the high price of dousing the people in greater economic calamity. Thus, I suggest this progressive’s position on how best to shape economic policy during this period of falling oil prices. I state this hoping those in charge will take pertinent advice from any quarter. My prayer is that they are not so stubborn as to adhere to a strategy that will deepen the economic misery of our people even when better policy measures are proffered. I confess to writing this also for a reason essentially political but nonconfrontational. It accentuates the distinction between the conservative PDP and the progressive APC. The nation faces momentous elections when next year turns to its second month. The choice is a stark one; but many people do not believe as such. The differences are vast especially regarding economic policy. On the one side, the PDP champions a conservative, elitist economic model based on the theory that wealth money must first go to the already rich and well-heeled who shall determine how small a fraction of it will trickle-down to the rest of society. On the progressive side, we believe government can fillip economic growth and development in such a way that brings the fairness of prosperity to all of society. We don’t seek to penalize those who already have but we will do our utmost to remove from the clutch of poverty the bulk of our people. We seek to turn the hungry suffering of our poor and working classes into a dignified livelihood that provides a dignified existence for all. Global oil prices have fallen from over 100 dollars a barrel to approximately 80 dollars per barrel. This slide has caused a corresponding drop in government’s dollar revenues. With this, the federal government claims it has less money at its disposal and the paucity of dollars necessitates austerity measures. Most people accept this position as gospel; debate about its correctness has been nil. Yet, the stakes are much too high to assume

this subjective position as an economic certitude or uncritically accept its propriety. What they proclaim as policy is not based on any unassailable economic principle. It is statement of economic bias that beckons to the wealthy while auguring unnecessary hardship for most Nigerians. Look at jobless and poverty levels as well as the diminished status of our middle class. After viewing these statistics, most objective economists would conclude Nigeria is mired in a long-term, secular depression. Forget the rosy GDP numbers. They signify a great economic and financial segregation between those who have and others who have not. If we continue with the policy preferences of the current administration, the haves shall become the “have–mores” and the “have-nots” shall become the “have even less.” The vast majority of the claimed GDP growth has fallen into the laps of those already enjoying obvious luxury. The rest of the people are left to gaze at the enormity of the income and wealth chasm separating them from the cabal orchestrating the discordant political economy. While a small group flourishes, the rest of the nation subsidizes their economic bounty. A tight confederacy rides an economic skyrocket while the bulk of the people languish in the swamp. For one group, the economy is effervescent. For the other, it is catatonic. Nigeria is one nation with two economies. For this government to speak of austerity is to further enrich the affluent while casting the average Nigerian into greater hardship and deeper socio-economic depression. As with the Euro zone the past five years since the global financial crisis, austerity has not solved the dire economic weakness of the nations that employed this sickening remedy. All austerity has done is tighten the grip of the wealthy on the economy while weakening the position of the middle class and the poor. Austerity weakens aggregate demand, deflating an economy already fatigued and against the ropes. Those with hefty portfolios, profit as the value of their holdings appreciates by the very dynamics of deflation. Those who don’t have, find money even dearer to come by. Jobs and commerce disappear. Debt climbs. Deflation turns a noble but poor household into a committee of beggars and street urchins. The austerity that the current Administration offers is an insensitive, myopic policy that lends primacy of favor to meaningless accounting figures instead of to the material wellbeing of the people. Austerity undermines our economic pillars and breaks the spirit of the people. Austerity is the merchant of pessimism and hopeless futility. If you desire a nation of thralls, by all

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

Source: OPEC Monthly Reports

‘

I offer this advice, this warning, because the people have suffered enough hardship. I offer this advice in the slim hope those in power will ignore the messenger and objectively weigh the quality and humane nature of the message. If so, they will spare the people the grief visited upon a vulnerable people when their government blindly imposes last century’s policies in a modern setting inappropriate to the old strictures

•Tinubu

means continue this bleak path. If we want a nation of prosperity and economic justice, a different course is our due. Listen carefully to the position of the Jonathan Administration as articulated by the finance minister and you shall collide into the barricades of illogic and its weighty consequences. The claim is that government is low on funds because the lower price of oil means fewer dollars are being collected from oil sales. This sounds logical but for one fundamental point. The dollar intake is basically irrelevant to determining the amount of naira the government commands and places into the political economy. This fundamental point reveals the government’s position to be the antiquated relic of a past era. It is the way of the gold standard which ceased to exist over forty years ago. As such, government’s stance is based more on superstition than on the actual functioning of modern economy with a sovereign fiat currency of its own. The last I looked, Nigeria operates a Naira-based economy not a dollarbased one. There is no legal or moral restriction strictly limiting the amount of Naira in the system to match the amount of dollars collected via oil sales. More importantly, there is no economic justification for the close linkage implied by the government. If we take its position at face value, the Jonathan Administration is advocating that we effectively place the Naira and thus our fiscal policy on a “dollar standard.” The world jettisoned the gold standard in 1971 because it proved unworkable, reducing the policy space in which governments could pursue fiscal programs promoting full employment and social welfare. We should likewise reject this government’s imposition of

a dollar standard on our nation’s fiscal operations. Under the gold standard, a national government took pains not to incur budgetary deficits that exceeded the dimensions of its gold reserves. This was because the currency had no value by itself. Its value was based on the convention that the currency was backed by the nation’s gold holdings. Those governments that ran deficits had to pay those debts in gold. Given that gold supplies were always and everywhere finite and exhaustible, a nation had to keep its deficits within the confines of its ability to pay debts in gold. Because of this straitjacketing effect, nations would abandon the gold standard during harsh economic times in order to give them the fiscal freedom to rejuvenate their economies. This was the case during the Great Depression with the major economic powers. This should be the case with Nigeria today since the bulk of our people live in conditions redolent of the Great Depression or any other depression for that matter. Our government persists that it must limit fiscal outlays to the amount of dollars the nation holds. Similar to the operation of the discarded gold standard, following this path is to strap ourselves to austerity and the chronic deflation of austerity produces. Worse, it serves to enthrall the fiscal policy of our sovereign nation to the monetary policy of another country. That nation plies monetary policy to serve its interests and not the economic interests of Nigeria. I am baffled why this government would give such power over the fate of our economic wellbeing to another nation that does not incorporate our interests into its decisional processes. This government makes our nation the economic servant of another so that government may turn about to make

the Nigerian people its economic servant. While there is a certain logic to this dynamic, it is a perverse and debilitating one. Because we operate a sovereign fiat currency the federal government issues at its sole discretion, the federal government can never be rendered insolvent in Naira. This means it can run Naira fiscal deficits indefinitely. The only outer bound is to ensure the fiscal expansion does not incur damaging inflation rates. There is no logical reason to peg the flow of Naira into the economy to the flow of dollars received. The correct perspective is not to mechanistically restrict Naira expenditure to dollar intake. This would be tantamount to those crippled with economic blinders forcefully leading those who can see we are heading for disaster. It points to deflation, recession and worse. The better methodology is to ascertain, then achieve, the level of Naira expenditure needed to expand the economy and create jobs without causing inflation to rise to dangerous levels. This is how broadly-shared prosperity is generated in a sustainable manner. In this way, the nation’s economic engineers should focus primarily on allocating value and opportunity to our underutilised labour force and our idle, yet potentially productive capital in a way that promotes wealth creation and expansion of aggregate demand. It is this sustainment of aggregate demand that empowers the nation to rescue itself from the whirlpool of economic contraction. This avenue is more benign than the one the federal administration now advocates. Their way calls for us to forget growth and for government to preoccupy itself with allocating economic misery among those segments of the population too poor and weak to contest the immiserating actions of government against them. In the face of recessionary headwinds, government should run countercyclical fiscal policy by using its Naira sovereignty to fund fiscal deficits. The deficit is not simply for the sake of running a deficit; the funds

‘

cannot be spent on nonproductive matters. It must be used to fuel infrastructural and other projects that not only employ great numbers of people but enhance the overall productivity of the economy. The funds must be used to backstop state governments in a nonpartisan manner so that each state government may continue to pay salaries and pursue projects essential to that state’s economic critical path. To accomplish this, the federal government needs to reverse the inimical “dollarization” of the national economy in two ways. First and most importantly, it must abandon the outdated peg of fiscal policy and expenditures to the dollar intake. The one actually has no correspondent nexus to the other. Any commanding connection we give it is an artifice not an economic necessity. Related to this, we must reverse a trend that has gained momentum under this government. Among governmentaligned elites, the fad has been to conduct domestic business transactions in dollars. Policy must “nairasize” the economy by requiring all domestic transactions occur in our legal tender. As this is done, the government’s infinite ability to issue Naira will come to outweigh the limitations inherent in the overuse of the finite supply of another nation’s currency for transactions wholly internal to our domestic economy. Inflation is the major risk of running budget deficits to spur growth. We can contain inflation to acceptable levels by ensuring additional government expenditures are for items that can be supplied domestically, particularly labour. Naira paid to poor and working class people mostly circulates in the domestic economy, spurring additional local commerce and production. This is because their consumption patterns do not approach the level of import expenditures associated with their wealthier compatriots. Related to this, we must decrease our level of superfluous imports. These measures will place downward pressure on the Naira. Devalu-

ation will not be destructive but it will be noticeable. For most nations, such devaluation would be welcomed as it would make export industries more competitive, thus creating jobs and export earnings in the process. However, this will not be the case initially for us because of the moribund state of our industrial sector. Here, government would need to initiate crash programs aimed at enhancing those domestic industries perched on the borderline of international competitiveness. In the end, the policy I propose is not without risks, inflation being the chief concern. Yet, if wisely prosecuted, the rewards of job creation and economic growth allocated among the bulk of the populace outweigh the inflationary risk. More to the point, the policy now pursued bears no risks at all. It is certain to toss the average man’s economy into a stagnation that will resemble the onset of a major recession. Saving the people from this unnecessary plight is sufficient imperative to eschew the policies of old and embrace the progressive course. I offer this advice, this warning, because the people have suffered enough hardship. I offer this advice in the slim hope those in power will ignore the messenger and objectively weigh the quality and humane nature of the message. If so, they will spare the people the grief visited upon a vulnerable people when their government blindly imposes last century’s policies in a modern setting inappropriate to the old strictures. Regardless of our partisan affiliations, let us consecrate this land by dedicating ourselves to the betterment of the poor, weak, and needy members of our national family. Let this moment not pass like so many others where we have demanded that the most vulnerable among us bear the greatest weight of the national burden. Let us give them the hope, change and dignity they deserve and human decency demands. This is how we make the nation great. When I speak of a common sense revolution, this is what I mean.

THE NATION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

•From left: Mr. Peter Abimbola; Dabiri-Erewa; Chief Gbadamosi; Ojikutu; Oba Ogunsanya ; Babalakin; Prof. Wahab; Col. Abdul Mumuni and Mr. Gbenga Oshinkoya, at the books’ presentation ...yesterday PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

Why housing remains a challenge, by Babalakin

IGERIA may not achieve development in housing and construction, if the government continues to discourage individuals and private sector to complement its efforts, the Chairman of BiCourtney Limited, Dr. Wale Babalakin SAN, has said. Babalakin also argued that “unnecessary intervention” and “meddlesomeness” by the government in commercialisation of the housing scheme was part of the reason the nation was yet to witness the desired revolution in the housing sector. He spoke at the presentation of three books titled: Construction and Housing Nigeria, written by Prof. Kunle Wahab. He was the chairman of the event yesterday at the Julius Berger Hall of

By Wale Ajetunmobi

the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Babalakin said: “There is nothing wrong in individuals providing the infrastructure for the convenience of the people and development of the nation. But a situation where the government of the day is at liberty to intervene unnecessarily after commercialisation of a service frustrates the efforts of individual to take the risk and help the government in carrying out its responsibility to the people”. He decried what he called the culture of politicisation of purely professional affairs, saying such practice had drawn the nation backward and impeded its effort to provide necessary infrastructure for the development of the country. He added: “We have seen cases

where contracts of people to provide certain infrastructure are revoked and we begin to hear that they lost out because they don’t know how to play politics or because they did not belong to the right circles of politicians. Lobbying politicians in power to provide important service such as housing and construction kills the vision and spirit of individuals to invest.” The books, Babalakin said, would act as manuals for professionals in the fields of quantity surveying and building. He praised the author for providing “valuable literature” to the construction and building knowledge, adding: “The worst offence to commit in the world is to possess knowledge without disseminating it to young ones”. Lagos State Commissioner for

Housing, Mr. Bosun Jeje, who was represented by Director of Physical Planning, Mr. Peter Abimbola, said cost of materials and time delivery remained the challenges before the government to provide adequate housing for the citizens. He said the books should be professional companion of every government to over the challenge of housing. The event planning committee chairman, Mr. Jamiu Saka, noted that the three books have 37 chapters and contain manuscripts written in the 1970s. He described the author as a lover of knowledge, saying the funds to be raised from the book presentation would be disbursed to pay tuition fees of indigent students in higher institutions.

Reviewing the books, the President of Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN), Mallam Hussaini Dikko, said the books were lasting memory and enduring legacy of the university teacher. He said: “The books are Prof Wahab’s contribution to literature in the field of quantity surveying, construction and building maintenance. The books are historical, contemporary and futuristic and address the challenges in the past and present.” Prof. Wahab hailed the guests and the people, who contributed to the publishing of the books. Present at the event were dignitaries, including an elder statesman, Chief Rasheed Gbaamosi; Chairman, Lagos State Local Government Service Commission, Mr. Oluwole Ojikutu; Onibeshe of Ibesheland, Oba Richard Odusanya and Abike DabiriErewa, among others.

Boko Haram: APC demands international inquiry From Yusuf Alli and Tony Akowe, Abuja

• Odigie-Oyegun

HE National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John OdigieOyegun, has demanded an international inquiry into the country’s growing spread of Boko Haram insurgency. He said Nigerians and the international community should be concerned about why efforts at curtailing the insurgents had not yielded the desired results. The APC Chairman said it was possible that the insurgency was being used for political purposes. Odigie-Oyegun made the demand while responding to questions from reporters at the party’s national secretariat after a briefing on the state of the nation. He said it was unfortunate that having failed to protect Nigerians, especially those living in the Northeast, President Goodluck Jonathan was waiting to be elected for another four years before setting up a Special Force to fight Boko Haram. Odigie-Oyegun said: “The issue of security is a fundamental challenge that is facing the nation. Boko Haram has been with us for almost a decade and has continued to grow in strength. We thought that a state of emergency would give our military the freedom to operate and so the nation supported the National Assembly when the President requested for a state of emergency.

“The state of emergency came and things have continued to degenerate. It is only logical that you ask yourself what could be wrong. As a matter of fact, we have on a number of times pleaded that an impartial international commission of inquiry be set up to look into this Boko Haram issue. Why is it what it is? Why is it growing at the rate it is growing? “If necessary, tell us who are those behind it. Is it likely that the Boko Haram issue is now being exploited for political advantage? The more savage it is, the more they are allowed to threaten, the more they are allowed to progress, the more the people of this nation would feel the necessity to cling to the apron string of a failed government. It’s all blackmail, pure and simple. “Between you and me, I want to say this. Nigerian troops have a world-wide reputation. Nigerian troops have confronted equally savage situations in Liberia and Sierra Leone. “They have paid with blood and dear lives to bring peace to other countries where the whole nation has broken down into total anarchy and succeeded. Why are we unable to succeed in our own backyard? Ask yourself that question”. The APC said there might be some political motives behind the rising insurgency in the Northeast. He said: “Who stands to benefit if three APC states are unable to effectively participate in the elections come February 15, 2015? Why is it that contrary to simple commonsense, they have been making this endless claim that they know those behind Boko Haram? “A few days ago. The omnipotent Governor of Akwa Ibom State pronounced that they were not going to hand over to sponsors of Boko

Haram. It is clear that the PDP knows who the sponsors of Boko Haram are. So, why are they not tackling them? What is stopping them from arraigning them before the court of law. In fact, Nigerians will help them tear the people to pieces so long as there is proof; reasonable proof. “In any conflict situation, when a town is captured, you are told the level of destruction, the number of death on all sides. How come Mubi could be captured without a single shot being fired? How come our troops have been withdrawn from Mubi? How come the security agencies were not in Mubi? Who is benefiting from all of these? Please ask yourself: why? “My take on this is that some people are gaining politically from the continuation of this crisis in the Northeast. Why can that be? Is it the APC or the PDP? Are we in control of the security forces? If you want me to pronounce it, let them get up and wipe out all the savages that have turned the Northeast into a graveyard. “Everyday, we hear that our troops are not adequately armed. What is happening to the resources being deployed in armament? The last time, we heard about the $9.3 million and the $5.9 million carried in suit cases to South Africa to buy arms. “We are a sovereign nation. We can bring into this country plane and ship loads of arms from China, Russia and even South Africa itself through legal means. So, why must you carry suitcases of dollars to South Africa to buy arms? What was the intention? “For whom were the arms to be purchased meant for? Or, was it a simple act of money-laundering or was it for buying arms for reasons that may even have to do with the 2015 elections? Till today, we have not been told who were in that plane even though the government has taken ownership of the money. Who

were the agents that were going to buy these arms? “We are in a terrible situation and I hope that the people of this country and the media will like in the days of the June 12 saga stand up bravely, even though those were military times. But it looks like civilian dictatorship is even more dangerous than military dictatorship. Odigie-Oyegun took time to explain what the APC would do differently, if elected into power in 2015. He added: “What are we going to do differently? Our troops will not abandon their positions, but will fight back. We will build up reasonable intelligence. How can a suicide bomber get all the way to Niger State? “It means that these people are operating all over the place. Where is our intelligence service? “What we will do is to make the system work; to make the system function and responsive to the situation on ground and not probably ask troops to withdraw and hand over the barracks and what is left of the armoury. “When these people are coming, they come with tanks and don’t walk on foot and so, they are not guerrillas. Whether we like it or not, what is going on is a conventional warfare. So, why is our government that wants four

more years waiting until you re-elect them before they set up this special force? “How long does it take to train that force? Let us face it and realise that something very serious is wrong in the Northeast and it can only lead to one direction. “We elected them to protect us and make life better for all of us. They have done none of these and they want four more years. May God save Nigeria from their hands”. On the manifesto of the party, he said: “I have said that we will interact on a weekly basis and what we are going to interact about is what we stand for on the issues of this nation. Security, power, education, agriculture and issues like that. In the process, you will get to know every bit of the details of our manifesto. “Yes, we are going to have a great, big launching event because it is a very colorful little booklet which will be available to all persons. Within the next few weeks, I will be leading other officers on this issue of where the APC stands and what it will do for the Nigerian nation and if possible, put a time span on some of these things, by which we would want to be judged and challenged when the time comes”.

Court adjourns suit on SDP, UPN

N ABUJA Federal High Court yesterday adjourned to December 9, the suit filed by a human rights activist, Mr. Richard Akinnola, against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Social Democratic Party ( SDP ) and Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). In his originating summons filed in August, Akinnola is challenging the registration of the two political parties by INEC. Akinnola is praying the court to nullify the purported registration of the two parties by the INEC on account that the two parties, having been dissolved by existing laws, as well as urging the court to determine whether INEC has the power to resuscitate prohibited and dissolved parties. Filed on his behalf by Mr. James Ode Abah of Bamidele Aturu Chambers, Akinnola argued that both SDP and UPN were outlawed out of existence by the Political Parties Dissolution Decrees of 1984 and 1993. Justice Gabriel Kolawole adjourned the case to December 9, to enable all the defendants to be properly served with the court processes.

THE NATION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

Varsities, polytechnics shun N7.8b research fund M

INISTER of Education Malam Ibrahim Shekarau has decried the refusal of the nation’s universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to access the N10 billion fund allocated for researches. Shekarau noted that N7.8 billion was yet to be accessed from the N10.052 billion allocated to universities, polytechnics and colleges of education for institution-based research. The fund, he explained, was provided by the Federal Government and domiciled with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to revitalise research activities in Nigerian public higher institutions. Shekarau spoke in Abuja

NAFDAC’s workers begin strike By Sina Fadare

ORKERS of the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have embarked on indefinite strike, after the expiration of seven days ultimatum they gave to the management of the organisation. The workers under the aegis of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), who arrived at the premises of NAFDAC office in Oshodi as early as 7a.m, last wednesday, carried different placards with inscription such as “NAFDAC leaders have failed Nigerians”; “Admin is corrupt”; “Implement skipping”, “We have suffered enough” among others. The Chairman of the area council of MHWUN, Stephen Ibe, who addressed the workers, said the union allowed the management a sufficient time to address their grievances. But NAFDAC pretended as if nothing happened”, he said. He added that they have no alternative than to padlock the organisation’s premises “from all transactions throughout the federation, including the sea and airport” till their demands are met. Ibe added: “It is now or never. We have had series of meetings with all the stakeholders since last year march, but to no avail. Therefore, the union has no choice than to declare indefinite strike action until our expectations are met.” The union’s chairman, who regretted that despite all dialogues the workers had with the management to make sure that the crisis was resolved amicably, the NAFDAC’s DirectorGeneral, Dr. Paul Ohirii, bluntly refused to listen to their plight. According to him, some of the grievances of the union includes the upward review of Job Specific Allowance by National Salaries, Incomes and Wages and the immediate implementation of Skipping of CONRAISS by NAFDAC Management as directed by the extant circular of November 4, 2014 based on the National Industrial Court’s judgment in favour of JOHESU. Others were ratification of all outstanding promotional arrears from 2012 to 2014, full payment of 13th month allowances, full payment of eight months pension arrears from May to December, 2012 for 2012 set of NAFDAC employees and the return of GMPS, Trainings, workshops and conferences

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

while inaugurating 20 TETFund-sponsored specialised higher education textbooks, guidelines on national research fund as well as guidelines on institutionbased research. He said TETFund between 2009 and 2014 allocated N5.5 billion to public universities, N2.5 billion to polytechnics and N2.0 billion to the colleges of education. According to him, “the bad news is that over 70 per cent of these allocated funds are still un-accessed.

“The trend is not acceptable and does not show seriousness on the part of stakeholders responsible to change the fortune of our tertiary institutions”. He stressed that research work remains the cardinal objective of any tertiary institution globally. “Lack of funding, rather than dearth of researchable work, generally used to be the complaint,” lamenting that the reverse was the case now. “I want to urge the academics to seize the opportunity presented by the launching of the TETFund guidelines on

institution-based research to expedite efforts at accessing these funds and move our tertiary institutions and the country forward,” the minister said. Shekarau urged the fund’s board to ensure that the objectives of setting up the national research fund and the national book development fund were actualised. Also at the event, the Board Chairman of the TETFund, Dr. Musa Babayo, said the Federal Government is investing significantly in book development. Babayo also said the fund has succeeded in revitalising over 100 professional journals in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

‘FERMA needs more cash for road projects’

HE Managing Director of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Gabriel Amuchi, said yesterday Nigeria needs extra-budgetary funding from multilateral agencies and other sources to service about 35,000 kilometres federal roads. He noted that funding in the sector was through budgetary allocations, which, he added, was at the mercy of the “envelope” the Federal Government could part with. But Amuchi said other sources of funding such as the five per cent fuel user charge and the International Transit Vehicle charge, as contained in the agency’s Amendment Act, were need to maintain roads. Amuchi, who spoke at an interactive session with reporters in his office yesterday in Abuja, explained: “The agency is funded through appropriation and maybe, in a year, we may need “x” amount of money and maybe the Federal Government would say this is the envelope we can afford to give you. You are then left to work with that envelope. “It is released quarterly. But you won’t fold your arms because your allocations are not released at once. What you do is to project (road) failures, tackle failures by spreading what is available to you to tackle areas that need immediate attention, either through

From Yomi Odunuga, Abuja

direct operations or minor contracts”. “There are provisions in the Amendment Act for the five per cent user charge, as well as International Transit Vehicle Charges. But those funds are still not being accessed. They are still being processed. “Globally, road maintenance is not carried out depending on annual appropriations. That is why in the United Kingdom (UK), they charge Road Users Tax, Access Tax and Petroleum Tax. Whatever you do in the UK and the United States (U.S.), you pay some tax because road use is for everybody.” The FERMA boss added: “The moment you get out of the plane at the airport, the next place you get to is the road. If you are going to the airport, you need the road. If you are going to travel, you need the road to travel. “But in our country, we are still in the process of sourcing funds elsewhere and be less dependent on appropriations”. Amuchi, who said the agency had changed the face of federal roads since his administration came on board in 2011, said over 60 per cent federal roads had received maintenance despite the paucity of funds.

Why Nigerian graduates ‘re unemployed, by ACCA chief From Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

HE Association of Chartered Certified Accountants’ (ACCA) Country Head, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Ademola, has given reasons why Nigerian graduates are unemployed. Mrs. Ademola stated that based on demands from corporate organisations, it was discovered that some of the graduates write wrong curriculum vitae. She said the graduates were still ignorant of their mistakes. The country chief, who spoke at ACCA Nigeria November Summit last Wednesday in Abuja, said the summit was a platform to engage unemployed youths. Mrs. Ademola said: “Basically, what they tell them is what they expect to see on their CV, how they expect it and how to write it, because some of these organisations look at the CVs. One of the reasons Nigerian students are not employable is because they probably have wrong CVs ever and they don’t understand it. “ACCA has over 20,000 stakeholders, including students and members. Some are not graduates. I know that FirstBank Plc and some other banks hire them on internship basis pending when they finish and get engaged”. She said the core value of ACCA was opportunity and accessibility, stressing that the event was organised as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to support all stakeholders. The association, Mrs. Ademola added, had been in partnership with global and Nigerian employers of labour to reduce discrepancies arising from job agencies. Ademola stated that issues of engaging and sustaining qualified employees were major concerns to many corporate bodies, stressing that the ACCA would bridge the gap.

He said: “It is dignifying to highlight that the agency has turned the roads situation from the state when there were calls for the declaration of emergency to a state where people are now saying that they recognise that the roads are much better. There is much to be done, but a lot has been done.” He noted that the frequency of road accidents occurring because of road failure had reduced. “Available reports now have it that most accidents now occur because of bad manipulations. Somebody may be trying to overtake in a place he shouldn’t and before you know it, there is head-on collision”, he said.

Soyinka, Obasanjo to lead writers to Ake Festival By Ozolua Uhakheme, Assistant Editor (Arts)

•Soyinka

OBEL laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and former President Olusegun Obasanjo will lead senior citizens and literary giants to discussion sessions at this year’s Ake Arts and Book Festival. It will hold at the June 12 Cultural Centre, KutoAbeokuta, from November18 to 22. In a programme, titled: “Muse as Memory”, Prof. Soyinka will sit in conversation with Jerome Okolo while Patrick Okigbo will host Obasanjo in a chat, titled: “Defining a Legacy”. The festival’s theme: “Bridges and Pathways” and discussions will focus on building bridges between the African people along language, ethnicity, gender and religious lines, and charting new paths towards creative synergy and cultural crossfertilisation on the African continent.

According to the organisers, there would be nine book chats at the festival, which will featuring Yelide Kilanko on her book, “Daughters who walk this path”; Bernadine Everisto on “Mr. Loverman”; Barnaby Phillips on “Another Mans War”; Okey Ndibe on his “Foreign Gods Inc”; and Chude Jideonwo on “Are We The Turning Point Generation?” Also, Nnedi Okorafor will be discussing her new book, “The Lagoon”, while Fred D’ Aguiar’s will be discussing “London Cape Town Joburg” and Nike Campell Fatoki will speak on her bestselling book, “Thread of Gold Beads”. Tayo Aluko’s critically-acclaimed musical play, “Call Mr. Benson”, will enjoy its Ogun State premier at the festival. There will also be a contemporary dance performance by Qudus Onikeku title, My Exile is my Head. The Ake Art and Book Festival (AABF), in partnership with Ogun State government, Etisalat, Access Bank and Annoying Logo will host international authors from all over the world and will showcase the very best of contemporary African literature, music, art, film and theatre.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS I’m for Ajimobi, says Alaafin

No hiding place for criminals, says Lagos police chief

AGOS State Commissioner of Police Kayode Aderanti vowed yesterday that there would be no hiding place for criminals. Aderanti spoke when he visited The Nation in Lagos. He urged Lagosians to go about their businesses without fear or molestation. The police team was received by the management team, led by Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Mr Victor Ifijeh. With Mr Ifijeh were Executive Director (Finance and Administration) Mr Ade Odunewu; General Manager (Training) Mr Soji Omotunde, Deputy Chairman, Editorial Board, Mr Tunji Adegboyega and Managing Editor Online/ Special Duties Mr Lekan Otufodunrin. Aderanti said residents must call the police promptly when crimes were being committed. The police chief said challenges peculiar to states with large population, such as Lagos, were surmountable, adding that the police would ensure that Lagos attained the

By Musa Odoshimokhe

mega city status it craved for. He said: “We want to ensure a Lagos that is prosperous, where people are not hindered from doing their legitimate businesses. “I have told my people that Lagos State must be protected. We, as police officers, in our little ways will contribute to its safety.” Aderanti said he would ensure that sanity returned to some flash points that were noted for criminal activities, adding that places, such as Mile 2 and environs, would begin to enjoy peace. According to him, there should be a collaboration between the media and the police. “We have to move beyond our traditional policing and involve the people in making our communities safe. “We are part of the society and cannot run away from it. We don’t have to turn the complainant to be the accused. We have to assure the people that we are there for them. “People should be confi-

dent that they are safe anywhere they see the police. We want to protect people everywhere,’’ he said. He called on politicians to stop patronising thugs for elections, noting that a situation where they were armed to unleash havoc on innocent people would not augur well. “Thuggery is almost becoming a cult issue. We are now dealing with a situation where politicians engage them for elections. “They must stop all these acts. The inspector general of police has made it clear that nobody should engage thugs for election purpose. “Most of these street urchins will be taken off the streets; I have told all my people that this time around we have to work for the people. We have to be accountable to the people of Lagos State.” He added that though the state still needed additional hands to be able to effectively police; he noted that the cooperation from the residents would go a long way to complement its effort. “We have to work in a col-

HE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, has said there was no strain in his relationship with Governor Abiola Ajimobi. He said this yesterday when the governor visited him as part of his tour of local governments to distribute appointment letters to teachers. The monarch said he supports the governor’s aspirations.

Five held for missing placenta From Damisi Ojo, Akure

•Aderanti ...yesterday.

laborative manner; we have to be transparent and open. I have moved around and told my officers that this time around the police must change from what it used to be. “We have to remove the wall between us and the public.” He said the police must reassure the people, “we must

PHOTO: OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL

receive those in distress warmly. “We have to calm them down, and at least if we cannot do everything, we have to solve half of their problems. And by the time you talk to someone in distress in a reassuring manner that would have taken the pains off his or her neck.”

Tribunal grants Aregbesola right to verify documents

SUN State Election Petition Tribunal has granted Governor Rauf Aregbesola the right to verify documents tendered

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

before it by the petitioners, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship

candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore. Aregbesola won the August 9 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Omisore and the PDP are challenging the victory of Aregbesola at the August 9 poll. APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were joined as second and third respondents. Omisore’s counsel Alex Izinyon yesterday tendered the Certified True Copies (CTC) of form EC40A series, which are ballot papers account and verification statements and form EC40B for the 17 local governments in contention. The counsel for the APC, Aregbesola and INEC, Akin Olujinmi, Kemi Pinheiro and Ayotunde Ogunleye, said they would raise their objections to the documents during their final address stage. Izinyon claimed that the time spent by the respondents in cross-checking the documents sought to be tendered was long, applying that the tribunal should limit them to two minutes each.

Olujinmi objected, saying it was the right of the respondents to check the documents so that new ones would not be smuggled in. “My learned friend cannot stop me from looking at these documents, it is my right. If he is saying I should not look at them why am I here?” he said. The tribunal chairman, Justice Elizabeth Ikpejime, conceded that the respondents had the right to cross-check the documents, but appealed to them to fast-track the cross-checking. However, when form EC8B for Ejigbo Local Government was tendered, Olujinmi discovered that two of the forms belonged to Ede North Local Government and called the attention of the tribunal to the discovery. He also noted that some of the documents belonging to Osogbo Local Government were found in the ones belonging to Irepodun Local Government.

Blame Fayose for insecurity, says APC

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State has said Governor Ayodele Fayose should be blamed for the rising insecurity in the state. A statement by the Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said since the governor’s inauguration, the state had been in the news for all the bad reasons. The party cited two bank robberies in Ifaki and Ikere and blamed Fayose for the lackadaisical attitude on law enforcement. Olatunbosun said: “ExGovernor Kayode Fayemi took security issues seriously while in office. “He funded security agencies that the law enforcement agents were willing to do their jobs. That was why there were no reports of security challenges during his tenure. “We have it on good authority that the governor has

cut by half security votes to the police, army, DSS and Civil Defence . “When you don’t have good equipment and the ones you have cannot be maintained, then you expose security agents to attacks. “The criminals are also emboldened to ply their trade. That is why you have robbers writing to the banks. “Investors are leaving the state in droves because their investment could not be guaranteed. “The governor, at his inauguration, promised Ekiti people adequate security, but the reality on ground points to a breach of that promise. “The total darkness in Ekiti State has also compounded the problem.” The party urged the governor to concentrate on providing adequate security, instead of pursuing perceived political enemies.

NURSE working at a private hospital in AbaPanu in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State and four others have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the theft of a child’s placenta in the hospital. The nurse was said to have helped in the delivery of a child born by Mrs. Sinatu Adeoye. It was learnt that the baby’s father demanded the child’s placenta and those on duty could not provide it. The father’s persistent request caused tension in the hospital as the workers ran away. Police spokesman Wole Ogodo said five persons had been arrested. He said the suspects were assisting the police in their investigations.

Robbery scare in Ondo From Damisi Ojo, Akure

ANKING operations were stalled yesterday in Akure, the Ondo State capital, following a tipoff that robbers were in the town. Banks hurriedly closed at 11 am. It was learnt that officials of a new generation bank got a tip-off that robbers were planning to attack the bank, so they alerted other banks and the police. Many customers were turned back and those inside the banks left in haste. Security operatives, comprising soldiers and policemen, were patrolling the popular Oyemekun-Oba Adesida and Arakale roads, where banks are concentrated. Some Armoured Personnel Carrier Vehicles (APCs) were stationed at some strategic locations. A bank official, who pleaded for anonymity, said: “I was attending to customers when my boss rushed into the banking hall and ordered us to stop work. He directed the guards to shut the doors and not allow anyone in. “He told us that robbers were in Akure. At first, we thought they had entered our premises; everybody was running helter-skelter. “But we later got to know that the robbers were only rumoured to be in town. “Thereafter, we were instructed to go home.” Police spokesman Wole Ogodo said patrol teams had been sent round the town.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

Ekiti election tribunal ends trial •Parties to adopt final written addresses Dec 17 P T

RIAL ended yesterday in Abuja at the Ekiti Governorship Election Tribunal, with Governor Ayodele Fayose and three others asking the tribunal to dismiss the petition by the All Progressives Congress (APC). Fayose, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) closed their cases after tendering some documents as exhibits. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) concluded its case the previous day, during which it called the Ekiti PDP Secretary, Tope Deji Aluko, as its witness. Aluko told the tribunal that the election was “peaceful, transparent, free and fair”. The party’s lawyer, Robert Emukperuo, tendered some documents in support of his client’s case. The APC filed the petition challenging the results of the June 21 governorship election won by PDP candidate Fayose. APC alleged that the election was manipulated by the Federal Government in favour of the PDP. The party asked the tribunal to “unravel the hidden facts surrounding the election”, saying the poll was more of “a mechanical exercise than the conventional casting of votes.”

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

The party also challenged the qualification of Fayose for the election. APC stated that Fayose had an ongoing criminal case with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). It cited manipulation and undue militarisation of the election, as well as impeachment of the governor as grounds for the petition. Fayose’s lawyer, Yusuf Ali, who adopted the evidence given the previous day by the PDP, also tendered some documents, including a report of the panel earlier set up to impeach his client. The October 12, 2006 report was signed by seven members of the panel headed by Remi Bamigboye. The report was titled: “ Report of the Investigative Panel into allegations of gross misconduct against His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Peter Ayodele Fayose and his deputy, Mrs. Biodun Olujinmi ,delivered this day, Thursday, October 12, 2006.” The concluding part of the report reads: “The conclusion of the panel is that having regard to Section 36 of the 1999

and the sensitive nature of the allegations against the governor and his deputy, and failure of the House of Assembly to appear before the panel, the panel concluded that all allegations of gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy, as contained in the notice of impeachment dated September 26, 2006 are deemed abandoned by the House of Assembly. “The panel under the relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution and applicable substantive laws of the land hereby dismisses the case of the petitioner.” COAS lawyer O. Sadiku tendered four newspaper publications –January 21, 2012 edition of Punch; July 7, 2012 of The Vanguard; September 4, 2012 of Punch and October 19, 2012 of Punch. Sadiku did not call any witness. He told the tribunal that his sole witness was not available. Lawyer to the IGP Abdulrasheed Ajana tendered a report on the election by the Commissioner of Police (Election) Ekiti State Command, Ikechukwu A. Aduba, dated June 21. Although the petitioner’s lawyer, Wale Aina, opposed

the admission of the report, on the ground that it was not a public document, the tribunal Chairman, Justice Mahammed Sirajo, in a ruling, held otherwise. He held that since the report was authored by a public officer in the course of his official duties, the report qualified as a public document. The judge admitted the document. The report reads: “Result of unit six (6) Odogo under ward 9 in Ikole Local Government Area was cancelled due to the snatching of the ballot box by Peter Alabi of Odo AyedunEkiti an APC agent, who pretended to cast his vote and ran into the bush with the ballot box. “When pursued by the security agents, he tore the ballot papers therein and escaped. INEC subsequently cancelled the unit’s result. Where we experienced snatching of ballot box and tearing of ballot papers in which suspect mentioned is presently at large.” At the conclusion of Ajana’s case, the tribunal chairman thanked lawyers for their friendly disposition and cooperation. He adjourned till December 17 for adoption of parties’ final written addresses.

Cleric warns politicians

ROPHET Sam Olu-Alo of the Mountain of Mercy Church, Erio Ekiti,Ekiti State, has warned politicians to shun corruption. The cleric, who just returned from a 45-day evangelism/warning tour in the United States, said devastation awaits corrupt public office holders, if they don’t repent. Olu-Alo said: “This is a warning for leaders who are corrupt and are making life

difficult for the masses. “God said he will bring a thunderstorm that would bring them devastation. “It will happen next April. A word is enough for the wise, let these leaders shun corruption and do the will of the people.” The cleric said his programmes, entitled Admimogo ( I’m created with a glory) and “7 hours, 7 prophets”, will hold in Ekiti, Akure and Lagos on November 15, 22 and 29.

Give us a chance, youths plead

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) youths in Ogun State have appealed to former Governor Gbenga Daniel and Chief Kashamu Buruji to give them a chance to serve the people. Their leader, Lanre Akindele, said: “We hereby appeal to major stakeholders in the state to please give youths an opportunity to contribute their quota to the development of the state. “We are also major stakeholders and deserve some measure of consideration so as to make the state a better place for the masses. “We like to remind them that it was youths who voted out the PDP in the 2011 election, when the party fielded unpopular candidates. “There are better alternatives to these old politicians, who are vying for the Ogun Central National Assembly slots. “What the youth of Ogun Central want are not boreholes, solar panel lights, but the utilisation of their aspired position for capacity building and capital development.”

College celebrates 60th anniversary

LUMNI of Ekiti Parapo College (EPCOSA), Ido Ekiti, Ekiti State have inaugurated a four-point developmental road map for their alma mater. President of the Old Students Association, Lanre Adesuyi, at a briefing in Lagos to announce the school’s 60th anniversary, urged the alumni to participate in the grand diamond jubilee celebration. “Our abiding faith in the shining future of our alma mater has prompted us to institute a plan to celebrate the coming of age of our great college. “The celebration of EKPACO’s Diamond Jubilee will hold from November 24 – 30

By Adetutu Audu

at the school premises in Ido Ekiti.” Adesuyi said the anniversary, which derived its theme: “Celebrating the Past, Consolidating the Present, Building the Future”, from the lessons of history, will among other things help to foster existing good relationship among alumni in accordance with the school’s motto ‘Agbajopo Owo’. He added that the fourpoint objectives of the developmental plan are “to reflect on the evolution of EKPACO; to refresh old school ties/friendships; to support the school by investing in its development and to mentor pupils.”

Aspirant picks nomination form •From left: Prof Ayo Fatubarin; Chief Olu Falomo; Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Oba Gabriel Aromolaran, President of Ijesaland Development Foundation (IDF) Dideolu Falobi, Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Kunle Jaiyeola and Chairman of the event Tunde Awobiyi at the IDF Summit in Ikeja, Lagos. PHOTO: NNEKA NWANERI

Ekiti situation like military rule, says lawmaker

HE lawmaker representing Irepodun/Ifelodun 2 in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Ayodeji Olurotimi Odu, has likened the situation in the state to military rule. Odu, who spoke to reporters in Lagos yesterday, said this was why the House could not hold plenary yesterday. The chairman, Legal and Judicial Committee, said there were a lot of illegalities in the state and that the House had

By Oziegbe Okoeki

gone through a lot recently. “The House is being blackmailed, intimidated and harassed constantly in an attempt to make us submit to the demand of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that all members should join their party. “We have been offered all sorts of inducements but the 19 All Progressives Congress (APC) members stood their ground.

“So the government has resulted to outright blackmail, intimidation and harassment. “There were a lot of things to be done; the House has to approve the list of commissioners and board members; even the appropriation bill has to be passed. “How do we do all these things when he is chasing members who would help him to do these things? We should have a harmonious

working relationship and whoever wants to stay in any party let him stay there. “You can’t wish APC dead in Ekiti. The party still has a large following in the state. We cannot sit until these issues are resolved. “What is happening in Ekiti is not ideal for democracy; the judiciary is being harassed, now the legislature is going through the same experience. Where will all this lead the state?”

Mark to Ondo PDP: withdraw court cases

ENATE President and Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Re-integration Committee of the Southwest David Mark has urged feuding parties in the Ondo State chapter to withdraw their cases from court. He praised stakeholders for allowing a seamless reconciliation and integration in the party.

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Mark urged the party members to work for the party’s victory in the 2015 elections. The Senate President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement, said: “It is in unity that we can win the elections.

“We must therefore work together to ensure victory for President Goodluck Jonathan and our party in Ondo State. “I, therefore, urge you all to withdraw the cases in court and allow this reconciliation to bring forth good governance and strength to our party in admiration of all the people of Ondo State.”

Governor Olusegun Mimiko assured stakeholders of his readiness to work with all members to deliver Ondo to the President in 2015. At the meeting were Bode Olajumoke; Kingsley Kuku; Gbenga Elegbeleye; Ayo Akinyelure; Boluwaji Kunlere; Kolawole Ademujimi; Jimoh Ibrahim and Sola Ebisemiju, among others.

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

CHIEFTAIN of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Adesoji Akanbi, has picked a senatorial nomination form for Oyo South, assuring the party he will deliver the district in 2015. Akanbi spoke at the Yemetu secretariat, where he was welcomed by his supporters. The businessman was a governorship aspirant of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in 2011. The aspirant said he was stunned by the large crowd and the encomium showered on him. Akanbi praised Governor Abiola Ajimobi for transforming the state through many laudable projects and expressed the confidence that the APC would do well in next year’s elections.

Walk in Lagos tomorrow

GROUP, Idea Builders Initiative, will hold a walk for women in Lagos and some major cities tomorrow. Titled: “The Global Women’s Mentoring Walk,’ the walk will involve established women leaders/professionals and emerging women leaders/professionals convening and walking together in their neighbourhoods. In a statement, the group’s Programme Officer, Omolola Alabi, said: “As they walk, they engage in discussions regarding life goals, ideas, challenges and successes. It

underscores the value of women’s leadership and exemplifies the transformative impact women have when they come together to promote positive change throughout the world. Founder/Executive Director, Idea Builders Initiative, Mrs. Lucy Kanu, has led the Global Mentoring Walk since its inception in Nigeria. The Global Women’s Mentoring Walk initiative was established in 2008 and has reached thousands of women leaders in Africa, Eurasia and Latin America. It holds every third Saturday of November.

THE NATION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

Ward congress: Court bars PDP from accepting results

N Enugu High Court restrained yesterday the Peoples Democratic Party

(PDP) from using or acting on the list or names purported to be the list of delegates elected at the ward and local government congresses, pending the hearing and determination of a substantive suit. The ruling came as a setback for the faction loyal to Senate Deputy President Ike Ekweremadu, which relied on the purported list, even when it was common knowledge that congress did not hold in the 260 wards on November 1. The court’s order came on the heels of a declaration by the national leadership of the party before a Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday that the ward congress did not hold in Enugu, contrary to the claims by the David Ajah-led faction. PDP also denied receiving or accepting any result from or relating to the purported congress. In its ruling in a suit filed by Charles Okafor, challenging the validity of the alleged congress, the Enugu High Court, presided over by the Chief Judge, Justice Innocent Umezuluike, ordered an accelerated hearing of the substantive suit, citing the urgency of the matter. It granted the plaintiff seven days to file his statement of claim and serve same on the defendant (PDP). The defendant has 14 days to file its statement of defence and serve same on the plaintiff. The matter was adjourned till December 8 for hearing. A faction of the PDP in Enugu State, led by Deputy Chairman Ajah, had claimed that the ward congress was conducted “peacefully” and published a list it claimed contained the names of the “elected

Delegates flay CJ’s injunction

ELEGATES elected at the November 1 ward congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State have flayed the ex-parte order granted by the Enugu State High Court, purportedly restraining the PDP from acting on the list or names of the delegates elected at the congresses, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit brought by a group loyal to Governor Sullivan Chime. Reacting on behalf of the body of ward delegates elected at the congresses, a member of the three-man ward delegates, who emerged from Umuabi Ward in Udi Local Government, Mr. Emeka Aneke, described the injunction granted by the Chief Judge, Justice Innocent Umezulike, as a “gross abuse of court processes and a typical market place injunction.” Aneke, in a statement in Abuja, said delegates were not surprised at such a “market place injunction.” He alleged that the chief judge abused the court processes by granting an injunction upon an earlier court order on the same matter, which was being heard by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Aneke said: “We, the elected ward delegates, take exception to this gross abuse of court processes by the Enugu State

From: Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

chief judge. It is a public knowledge that the matter is a subject of litigation at the Federal High Court in Abuja, which had granted an injunction restraining the PDP and its principal agents from receiving any other result of the November 1 ward delegates election of the party other than the names submitted by the Acting Chairman of the party, Elder David Ajah and the Electoral Committee. “This, however, did not come to us as a surprise, especially given an earlier online report accusing the chief judge and Governor Chime of plotting to use a kangaroo injunction to truncate the peace deal brokered by President Goodluck Jonathan. “It will be recalled that the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors had boasted that they had some members of the PDP Governors’ Forum working for them to frustrate the party in the general elections before defecting, and this second injunction coming on the heels of an earlier injunction and subterranean moves seeking to undermine Ajah from carrying out his legitimate duties, leaves no one in doubt that the governor is indeed an enemy within. “We are convinced that although Chime claims to have accepted not to join the race for Enugu West, he is bent on working with opposition forces to ensure that the PDP does not present candidates for the general elections, even as we have it on authority that the governor and his men are planning to field

candidates on another party’s platform.” He alleged that the decision not to properly serve the PDP before ruling on the ex-parte motion was a deliberate attempt by the piper to rig the judicial processes in favour of its paymaster, as was the case in the Enugu ‘chicken impeachment’ and a similar controversial order restraining the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, from parading himself as leader of the party. “They deliberately served the Enugu PDP instead of the national headquarters to ensure that the PDP did not make an appearance at the court, and we are sending a petition to the National Judicial Council to investigate the processes leading to this kabu-kabu injunction and the habitual abuse of injunction by one man,” Aneke added. He urged the PDP faithful and aspirants “not to lose sleep over this contrived order, as the three-man delegate elected at the 260 wards would, on November 29, elect PDP’s candidates for the House of Assembly election and would proceed to elect candidates for the National Assembly and governorship elections.” “If there was no ward congress, on what basis did Governor Chime and his group participate in last Saturday’s local government congress where some of their loyalists were elected as national delegates by the three-man delegate elected on November 1 and on what basis did the appeal panel sit on the outcome of the ward congress?” Aneke queried.

•Ekweremadu’s faction suffers setback From Chris Oji, Enugu

delegates.” The Executive Committee, led by the Chairman, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, however, countered the claim, saying the congress was never held due to the non-arrival of members of the electoral panel and materials from Abuja. The committee’s position was corroborated by the national sec-

retariat, which in a counter-affidavit filed in defence of a suit seeking to prevent it from changing the result of the purported congress, declared that the congress did not hold in Enugu. PDP said due to a misunderstanding, “which almost led to fisticuffs” among members of its electoral committee for the congress, the materials for the election did not leave Abuja, but were deposited by

mutual consent at the Wuse Police Station for safe keeping. It asserted that contrary to the claims, the result sheets were still in its custody, adding that none of the plaintiffs “won any election and were never issued the official result sheet in form PD/ 004.” Admitting that “there have been allegations and counter-allegations in respect of the ward congress, PDP

said it had not accepted any list of ad hoc delegates from the contending parties. It urged the court to dismiss the suit since the plaintiffs had, from the evidence before it, failed to establish that they won the election, neither had they adduced any evidence that the congress allegedly conducted was in compliance with the constitution and the electoral guidelines of the party. PDP said it was working on a new date for the congress.

NLC, TUC warn govt over stunted N4b housing project From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

HE Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have petitioned the House of Representatives over “the refusal of the government to fund the workers’ housing project under existing agreements.” The unions are, therefore, threatening strike if the right thing is not done. The House of Representatives Committee on Finance headed by Abdulmumin Jibrin, chided the Federal Government yesterday for moving money into a mortgage re-financing company when the promised houses were not yet built. It said the move jeopardised the N4 billion housing project meant for Nigerian workers under the aegis of the NLC and the TUC. “Does it make sense to have mortgage refinancing when the houses are not on ground,” Jibrin asked. But the Managing Director of the Nigeria Mortgage Refinancing Company was not available to answer the questions posed by the committee and other stakeholders. The Chairman of the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE- P) was also not available, although he was invited. President of the NLC, Abdulwaheed Omar, and his TUC counterpart, Musa Lawal, however, met with the committee and complained that the Federal Government had reneged on an agreement meant to provide the Nigerian workers houses after their retirement.

Aspirant eyes House of Assembly

WRITER, Bolo Owolowo, has declared his intention to vie for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat on the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC). The aspirant told our reporter that he would be contesting for the primaries in Kosofe 2 Local Government. Owolowo once lived in the United Kingdom before he relocated to Nigeria to engage in business. He said: “For a few years I have been writing articles via various mediums online. If you google “m.b.o owolowo” it will bring up some of my articles. My

most recent article was “Nigeria’s Fools At Large”. I have written over 40 articles, all accessible via my blog.”

•Owolowo

•From left: Regional Sales Manager, Lagos, PZ Cussons, Adewale Ayodeji; National Sales Manager, Sampson Ekpenyong; Marketing Director, Sandy Griffiths and Marketing Manager, Charles Nnochiri, at the unveiling of Morning Fresh Antibacterial Dishwashing Liquid in Lagos... yesterday.

Court dismisses AMCON’s application

HE Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos dismissed yesterday an appeal filed by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) against the ruling of Justice Ibrahim Buba of a Federal High Court in Lagos. Justice Ibrahim Buba had in a ruling vacated an order by Justice Okon Abang asking AMCON to take over the assets of Bi-Courtney Group over an alleged N50 billion debt. AMCON in a notice of appeal filed through its lawyer, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, claimed that the orders of lower court setting aside Justice Okon Abang’s orders were made without jurisdiction, as it was trite in law that a court cannot grant prayers not sought by any of the parties before it. The appellate court pre-

By Precious Igbonwelundu

sided over by Justice Rita Pemu refused a motion filed by AMCON asking for an order to compile and file additional record of appeal. The court subsequently adjourned the matter till February 12 for hearing. Justice Abang had during an order delivered on September 22, appointed, Agbakoba, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), as the receiver/manager over BiCourtney assets, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Terminal 2. But these orders were set aside by Justice Buba, who held that the orders were an abuse of court process because it was obtained by Agbakoba through concealment of fact.

Other companies affected by the order are: Chartered Investment Limited, Resort International Limited and Roygate Properties Limited. However, AMCON in its notice of appeal said Justice Buba misdirected himself when he heard and granted the oral application of lawyers to the Bi-Courtney Group to vacate the receivership, possession and freezing orders made by Justice Abang on September 22, without such application being fixed for hearing. AMCON argued that Part XIV of AMCON Practice Directions, 2013 was clear that all applications other than a simple application must be filed and served on each party before hearing. The appellant said the trial judge erred in law when he held that the orders of Justice

Abang was an abuse of court process, as the cause of action in the suit before Justice Buba was different from that which Justice Abang based his orders. It maintained that there was a full disclosure of all relevant materials and facts at the time Justice Abang was moved to grant the orders, and as such Justice Buba was legally wrong to arrive at the conclusion that AMCON misled Justice Abang. AMCON averred that Justice Buba was also wrong when he held that the discharge of Justice Abang’s orders had concluded the suit, as sections 49 and 50 of AMCON Act allow the appellant a period of 14 days from the date an order is granted to file a debt recovery action. The appellant is asking the upper court to set aside the orders made by Justice Buba.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS PDP to Duke-Abiola: ‘come and take your forms’

HE leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it has noted the refusal of Prof. Akasoba Duke-Abiola to collect her Presidential Expression of Interest and Nomination forms in spite of the one week extension granted by the party, which expires today, to accommodate teeming party faithful interested in running for respective offices. The party also noted that Prof. Duke-Abiola willfully refused to collect her Expression of Interest form with Code number PD002/ P and serial number 0000003 and Nomination form with Code number PD003/P and serial number 0000003 even after it was sent to her through her lawyers. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, in a

statement yesterday said Prof Duke-Abiola’s refusal to collect the forms suggests an ulterior motive adding that other aspirants including Dr. Ghalil Tafawa Balewa and President Goodluck Jonathan collected their forms on October 30 and November respectively. The party expressed surprise that Prof DukeAbiola, chose to go to court instead of taking advantage of the extension, which expires today to collect her forms. Stating that the aspirant still has until the close of today to collect her forms, the PDP said failure to do so, it will have no option than to consider her as not being interested in the contest, but out to cause confusion and foment trouble in the party.

Church celebrates

HEAD of its 4th anniversary, Christ Anointing Bible Church has begun the annual 40-day fasting and prayer tagged: “The Same Jesus”. The programme, which began on October 6, will end on Sunday. Venue is Oba-bi-Olorun Kosi Street, Oko-ope, Mowe, Ogun State. The host, Prophet Kayode Okin, said people should come and experience powerful Jesus Christ, who raised the dead, opened the blind’s eyes, fed the multitude with five loaves of bread and two fishes and cast out demons.

Students hail MTN Surprise Initiative

HE students of University of Lagos and Federal College of Education, Akoka Lagos have continued to commend MTN for the unprecedented experience they are getting through the ongoing Season of Surprise Campaign initiated by the company. This was when one of the most sought-after Nigerian musicians and MTN ambassador, Tiwa Sawage paid surprise visits to the two campuses on Tuesday, November 11, 2014. The notable singer who arrived at the schools unannounced was given a rousing reception by the students. The students who came out in their thousands to have a glimpse of their favourite musical icon as well as take pictures with her were so elated to have her in their midst. One of the students, Ugwu Joseph Chinonso, a year-three student of Mathematics, University of Lagos who won an iPhone 6 from the singer thanked MTN for the surprise gesture. “I am so excited; this is awesome and absolutely unexpected. Apart from the opportunity to meet Tiwa Sawage who happens to be one of my favourite musicians, I am also receiving a surprise gift from her. In fact MTN has not only surprised me, they have done it beyond my imagination!” he said. In the same vein, Shodeinde Zainat Afolashade, a student of Agriculture, Federal College of Education, Akoka, Lagos, was shocked beyond words when she was handed a brand new iPhone 6 by the musical act. “This is great!” she exclaimed. “I am short of words, I have been dreaming of having an iPhone and I am getting it in a very unpredictable manner. MTN should keep up the surprises, the season should continue” she enthused. Meanwhile, the musician who took time to visit the students in their hostels on the two campuses encouraged them to face what they came to the institutions to do and also thanked

them for the support they are given the Nigerian music. “My friends please, always remember what you are here for, face your studies and keep your dream alive. I appreciate all of you for believing in us and also in Nigerian music.” She said.

•Former Chairman, Ojo Local Government and All Progressives Congress Leader Alhaji Olorunfunmi speaking when a Lagos State governorship aspirant Mr Akinwunmi Ambode (left), visited the local government as part of his consultation...yesterday. With them is the Secretary to the Government of Lagos State, Mrs. Ranti Adebule.

Boko Haram: Catholic bishops decry relief sharing for the displaced

HE Catholic Bishops Conference has decried the method of sharing relief materials to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP). Millions of Nigerians have been displaced due to the violent attacks by the Boko Haram in the north. Speaking with State House correspondents after meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday, the Catholic Archbishop of Jos, Ignatius Kaigama, urged the Federal Government to collaborate with the church, claiming it has good relief structure on ground. He said: “We are here on behalf of the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria.

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

We came not to wish him a bad day, but to talk about our nation. We had some concerns about the situation of security in the nation as well as political developments. So, in general terms, we shared with him in a conversation and discussion.” “We just wanted to remind him of things he already knows. There was nothing we said that was new. We just wanted to lay emphasis and we wanted him to know we are concerned.” The Archbishop added: “The President is already do-

ing his bit. He has assured us that he is on top of the situation. They are reviewing strategies and all that; and by the grace of God, this terrorism that we are witnessing will soon be a thing of the past. This is the assurance we are coming away with.” Saying the bishops felt that things were not right, the cleric noted that Nigerian territory was being taken away. He said: “The people we look after are displaced, their homes, their villages, towns are captured and they are internally displaced in their own land. “We thought this is not

right. We have families that are just stranded. We thought that the President should know. As Catholics, we have laid a good structure for relief and taking care of such situations. We want the government to collaborate with us. “We have what we call the Catholic Peace and Justice Commission. We respond when there is an emergency. We know how to technically do registration of displaced people. “The little funds we gather, we buy clothing and materials, and are able to reach out very effectively to make sure every victim gets something.”

Field Wike and lose Rivers, aspirant tells PDP

HE crisis of candidature in Rivers StatePeoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened yesterday, with an aspirant, Mr Atamuno Atamuno, warning of dire consequences, if a former Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, is the candidate. But Wike said no campaign would affect his chances to win the primaries and become the governor next year. A statement yesterday by his media aide, Simeon Nwakaudu, said the former minister was not disturbed by the opposition’s regular media briefings and sponsored groups. Atamuno, who addressed reporters yesterday in Abuja, said Wike’s candidacy would be tantamount to violating an agreement by Rivers PDP to cede the governorship ticket to the coastal area. The aspirant, who said he submitted his forms to the authorities at the Wadata House national secretariat of

‘Nothing ‘ll stop Wike from contesting’

ORMER Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, has said he would win the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDPs)’primaries and win next year’s governorship election, despite the opposition to his candidature. In a statement yesterday by his media aide, Simeon Nwakaudu, the former minister of state said: “The Rivers Mandate Group, an offshoot of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is gasping for breath, having lost the support of the ordinary Rivers people who have endured four years of (Governor Rotimi) Amaechi’s non-performance and misrule. “Members of this sponsored group are planted remnants of the outgoing governor, trying desperately to distract the party. “Wike will contest the December 8 PDP governorship primary, and no amount of sponsored press conferences and interviews will stop him and committed members of Rivers From Yomi Odunuga, Abuja

the party in Abuja, stressed that Wike should be stopped from taking part in the party’s primaries because his emergence would cause protest votes against the party.

PDP. The PDP is firmly organised and will defeat the APC in all elections by January with Wike leading the party. “For the avoidance of doubt, Wike will contest the governorship election, beginning with the primary on December 8. The antics of sponsored moles will not affect his chances. “Already, the party has had successful ward and local government congresses. Moles, including the Rivers Mandate Group, will continue to address press conferences while Wike is building bridges of party growth with PDP members and Rivers people. At present, Wike has consulted with party delegates from seven local government areas. The consultation continues on Friday, November 14 (today) and he will meet all party delegates before the December 8 governorship primary.”

He said: “We are looking unto the National Executive Council (NEC), the National Working Committee (NWC) and the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party to advise Wike to step aside in the in-

terest of the party because all that happened were orchestrated plans and strategies by a group of people to dominate the politics of the state against overall interests. “...We can no longer con-

tinue in that way and we have decided to say no. The best thing for the party is that this man should withdraw from the race. That propaganda that only one man can deliver Rivers State is false.” Atamuno added: “If Wike is going to participate, there will be no primaries. We don’t want him to participate. If he can do what he has done to party members, what will happen if he gets into office? “I firmly believe in the NWC, the NEC and the administrative structures of the party. I know that they have the wisdom to do what is right. I also know that they are not willing to lose Rivers State.” On why power should shift to the coastal area of the state, Atamuno noted that the other section of the state had been in power for over 15 years and many educated indigenes in the coastal region were clamouring that power should naturally come to their area.

Akpabio: I have three aspirants for governorship race

KWA Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio assured the electorate yesterday that he will hand over to any Akwa Ibom indigene the people choose as their governor. The governor said he had three aspirants among who he would like to hand over next year. He spoke on an African Independent Television (AIT)

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

network programme, which our reporter monitored in Uyo, the state capital. He attributed the successes of his administration’s “uncommon transformation” to the state legislators, who he said approved 80 per cent capital and 20 per cent recurrent expenditure consistently for

seven years. On next year’s governorship ticket, which has been generating tension in the state, Akpabio said: “If anybody tells you that there is any governor who is not interested in who takes over from him, that person is lying. But the approach differs from state to state. Like in my state, I have identified about three young men who

have had the privilege of working with me in my executive. “Three of them have bought forms to contest for the governorship. One of them is Udom Emmanuel. He served as Secretary to Government (SSG). He was an Executive Director in Zenith Bank and also a Director in African Finance Corporation (AFC). He is quite

an intelligent young man. He walked his way up. He is from Akwa Ibom State and, today, he has bought the form and resigned as the SSG. “I also have an AttorneyGeneral who I call a gentleman: one of the most brilliant lawyers we have in the state. His name is Ekpenyong Ntekim. He has also bought form to try his luck.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

PEOPLE

THE NATION

A SEVEN-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

The wedding reception for Babajide, a nephew of the former Minister of Transport and Aviation, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, and Mariam was held penultimate Saturday at Darlington Hall, Illupeju, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

•From left: Bride’s father, Mr Osaji; his wife Joy; the couple, Babajide and Mariam; groom’s parents Pastor Babatope and his wife Olubukola

Union of love birds

T was a day of fulfilment for Babajide, the chief marketing officer, Daniok Nigeria Limited, and former Miss Mariam Osaji, an Information Technology personnel with Electronic-Purse Systems penultimate Saturday as they said: “I do”. A reception was held at Darlington Hall, Illupeju, Lagos. Their family members and friends gathered in numbers, looking elegant in uniformed traditional attires. Many of the women were decked in gold gele. Babajide, an indigene of Ilesa in Osun State, is the son of the younger brother of the former Minister of Transport and Aviation, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, Pastor Segun Babatope; while Mariam hails from Asaba in Delta State. The hall was decorated in white and gold colours. The chairs were covered with white fabric and set around tables with golden overlays. As guests arrived at the venue, they exchanged pleasantries amid gospel music by

Kool Jay sound entertainment. The event, anchored by Ademosu Ademola, began with hymns and accapela by The Veteran Voices, after which the emcee introduced the guests. The bride’s parents, Ogbueshi Paul Isichei Osaji and Joy, came in first. They danced from the entrance of the hall accompanied by family members and friends amid the spraying of new naira notes. They took to their seats and the groom’s parents did same. The entry of the couple in the hall caught guests’ attention. Many left their food, stood up to welcome the couple while some used phones, I-Pads and cameras to snap ‘the newest couple in town’ as said by the emcee. They came in with their friends and family members, took to the floor and displayed beautiful dance steps, wriggling their waists and flinging their arms around each other. They smiled all through the event. Pastor Emeka Izeze led the opening prayer. The Chairman on the occasion, Pastor Solomon Odenema, took a reading from Exodus 33 vs 14. He told the couple to allow the presence of God to follow them on their marital journey. He urged them to show perseverance and understanding, knowing that they came from different backgrounds. After the sermon, Pastor Odenema supervised the cutting of the cake. After which the couple fed each other. They had their dance after the bride danced with her father and other guests later joined them on the dance floor, dancing and spraying money. Telling her story with smiles, the bride said the journey has been good. “We have fought, broken up and made up several times. But I thank God we are here,

‘The couple must live a godly life so that they can experience the riches that are ordained in marriage by God. Marriages are breaking today because God is not in it; therefore, allow God to be in your marriage always’ today, as husband and wife. Babajide is a man with a good heart, a beautiful soul and a man willing to sacrifice his own pleasure and comfort for others,” she said. The groom said his wife is caring, homely, beautiful, and supportive in all areas. “When we first met in December 21, 2011, I saw that she was the centre of everybody’s

PHOTO: ABIODUN ADEYEWA

attention; she is very cautious about how she looked and I really wanted to know who she was and here we are today. I feel so fulfilled,” he said. The Senior Special Assistant to President Jonathan on Public Affairs, Dr Doyin Okupe, advised the couple to hold on to God in the midst of all challenges. “God ordained the marriage and He is capable of keeping it,” Okupe said. Chief Babatope urged the couple to accommodate each other. “Be patient and sober; do not rush to judgment in the midst of any challenge and do not be sentimental nor jump to conclusion,” he said. The bride’s father said respect for each other is the secret of a marriage that will be successful. “The woman has to recognise that the man is the head of the family; she must respect her husband and the husband must do likewise,” he said. The groom’s father said there is more to life after wedding. “The couple must live a godly life so that they can experience the riches that are ordained in marriage by God. Marriages are breaking today because God is not in it; therefore, allow God to be in your marriage always,” he said. The bride’s mother described marriage as a sweet thing and urged the couple to be prayerful. The groom’s mother, Mrs Olubukola Babatope, Chief Executive Officer, B8 Shawama, told the groom to love his wife as he loved himself and the wife should be submissive and prayerful, noting that the decision of her husband must overrule her own. • More pictures on page 14

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

SOCIETY UNION OF LOVE BIRDS

•From left: Managing Director, Centre Spread, Alhaji Kola Ayanwale; Managing Director, Guardian newspaper Mr Emeka Izeze and Senator Ganiyu Solomon

• Dr Okupe (left) and Pastor Odemona

• Dr Oduola Abiola (left) and Mr Jaye Abiola

• From left: Chief Babatope; Pastor Williams Johnson; Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard newspaper Mr Gbenga Adefaye and Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, The Sun cum Guild of Editor’s president, Mr Femi Adesina

•Mr Ayo Akinyemi

•From left: Mr Lekan Sote; Mr Soji Akinrinade and Ogun State Commissioner for Information Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu

•Mr Tunde Ipinnmisho

•Mrs Philo Ogadi (left) and wife of ex-Ekiti State Governor Mrs Kemi Oni

•Enyi Modi and Mr Eugeme Umunn

PHOTOS: OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL AND ABIODUN ADEYEWA

WEDDING

CERTIFICATE PRESETATION

•The couple Mr Sunny Agbonluwe and his wife, former Miss Cyinth Idehen during their traditional wedding in Benin City, Edo State

•Altstrat Director, Mr Trevor Dolan (right) presenting a certificate to University of Lagos Depaprtment of Mass Communication Senior Lecturer, Dr Ismail Ibraheem, after a Training Programme organised by the University of Northampton in conjunction with Unilag Consult and Alstrat in United Kingdom. With them is Unilag Consult Acting Managing Director, Prof Bola Oboh

THE N

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

POLITICS THE NATION

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KWARA POLITICS Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has declared his bid for a second term at a carnival-like rally in Ilorin, the state capital, witnessed top leaders of the All Progressives Congress(APC), prominent monarchs, clerics and other stakeholders. Correspondent ADEKUNLE JIMOH examines the battle for the Kwara Government House and the governor’s chances at the poll.

Day Ahmed declared for second term T

HE crowd was huge. The people were singing, dancing and waving brooms, the symbol of the All Progressives Congress (APC). It was at Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State where Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed declared his intention to seek re-election. Aspirants for parliamentary elections were accompanied by their supporters to the venue of the rally. They were competing for the attention of visiting national leaders, who were in one accord. But, the governor had no rival. Having been endorsed as the consensus candidate, he exuded confidence and optimism. “I have lived up to expectation. I have fulfilled my campaign promises for the first term. I am asking for the renewal of my mandate to serve you,” he said, as he unfolded his agenda for the second term. As early as 8 am, many indigenes had stormed the Metropolitan Square, venue of the event. The rally was witnessed by top party leaders, including Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, former military Head of State and APC presidential aspirant General Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko and his Imo, Rivers, Kano, Rivers, and Edo counterparts; Owelle Rochas Okorocha, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, Chibuike Amaechi, and Adams Oshiohmole. Other dignitaries included House of Representative Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, former Kwara and Ekiti state governors; Alhaji Shaaba Lafiagi and Dr Kayode Fayemi, APC National Publicity Secretary Alhaji Lai Mohammed, party trustee Alhaji Kawu Baraje and Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly Razak Atunwa The host was the party leader and former governor, Dr. Bukola Saraki, who was hailed by party leaders for his leadership skills and commitment to the progress of Kwara. Ahmed thanked the political machinery that thew him up as the governor. He also expressed gratitude to the people that voted for him three and half years ago. He promised to accelerate the development of the state, if re-elected. The governor said: “ I humbly and formally declare my intention to run for a second term in office so that I can do more for our state and its people. By the grace of God and with your mandate, we intend to accelerate the development of our state, if re-elected for a second term in office.” Ahmed added: “I will boost the local economy through the establishment of an independent power projects (IPP) that will power industrial clusters, stimulate jobs and improve power supply to our communities. “By the grace of God, we will upscale our education reforms, with the complete overhauling and modernisation of 120 secondary schools as we start the process of benchmarking our schools against

•Crowd of supporters at the rally.

• Governor Ahmed, Senator Saraki, Gen. Buhari, Alhaji Abubakar and Hon. Tambuwal at the rally.

global best practice.” The governor promised to fight the infrastructure battle through road construction and rehabilitation. He said his administration will even construct federal roads that have been neglected. He said: “By the first quarter of next year, we will take another bold step towards providing our youth with functional skills when the City and Guilds-affiliated International Vocational Center, Ajasse Ipo takes in its first set of students. This school will connect with our Quickwin initiative, un-

der which a new crop of youth entrepreneurs is currently receiving vocational and entrepreneurship training, to fill middle level manpower gaps. “In sports, we intend to completely overhaul and modernize the indoor sports hall of the Ilorin Township Stadium in line with high standards of Main Bowl and in order to promote sports development, especially among our youths.” The governor reiterated his commitment to the Saraki political dynasty. He said: “I reaffirm my be-

lief in our political structure. A structure that has given hope to the hopeless; that has made governance inclusive in Kwara State. This structure gives hope that you can be anything you want subject only to the limit of your abilities. “It is only this structure that could have enabled Abdulfatah Ahmed, the son of a middle-level policeman, to become governor.” Saraki, who represents Kwara Central in the Senate, said Kwarans will vote for continuity in next year’s election. He described Ahmed as a loyal politician who

‘As early as 8 am, many indigenes had stormed the Metropolitan Square, venue of the event. The rally was witnessed by top party leaders, including Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, former military Head of State and APC presidential aspirant General Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko and his Imo, Rivers, Kano, Rivers, and Edo counterparts; Owelle Rochas Okorocha, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, Chibuike Amaechi, and Adams Oshiohmole’

has worked with commitment and dedication to the welfare of the people. Saraki added: “Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has attended to some of our problems and I want you to give him four more years. The people of Kwara should come out during elections and vote for the APC. This is the party for you; the other parties are only there for themselves. You don’t see them. When you go and see them they only say ‘thank you,’ can thank you help you? “This election is for all of us. They say they are coming with Abuja power; tell them that you have people’s power.” Baraje, who said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has no place in Kwara, urged the people to girds their loins against rigging. He said: “Contrary to the belief of the opposition, their lies, and fabrications, the APC is on ground in Kwara State. The second thing that this crowd is telling you is that, in 2011, when the state put forward that young, experienced and versatile young man to be the governor of the state, little did we know that we were voting for efficiency; performance of the highest order. “Kwarans are telling you that they have seen your handiwork. It is not a lie; it is something that is visible. It is what everybody can see. This crowd is telling you to continue in office for another four years. I therefore, join them that you should continue and come forward to accept our endorsement.” The venue was electrified with Tinubu’s arrival. The APC national leader, who initially addressed the audience in Yoruba language abridged all protocols, saying the electorates are far more important than lengthy protocol. Tinubu fired salvos at the Federal Government, chiding President Goodluck Jonathan for his failure to restore security as the Commander-In-Chief.The former governor of Lagos State asked the President to resign. Tinubu said: “I saw the sea of refuges caused by Boko Haram insurgents and the lies coming from the Jonathan Administration. They have exhibited failure, lack of capacity, vision, creativity; the lie of yesterday is what they repeat today and it is what they will repeat tomorrow. They are lying to you. “They are lying about the security; toying about the security of this country. I don’t have time to explain the logic of their lies. “But, if you control the armed forces and you are the Commander-in-Chief of Federal Republic of Nigeria, why should any part of this country be under occupation? And you give us excuses every day. In any civilised country Jonathan should resigned. But, if he will not resign, he should wait for our broom. We will sweep •Continued on page 16

THE NATION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

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RACE TO 2015 ‘My agenda for Kosofe’ Lagos State Commissioner for Housing Hon. Bosun Jeje is a House of Representatives aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kosofe Constituency. He spoke with EMMANUEL OLADESU on issues that will shape the contest.

HY are you contesting for the House of Representatives in Kosofe Constitu-

ency? If we are to refresh our memory, in 2007, I contested, In 2011, I contested. But, as a party man, who believe in the voice of the leaders, when they made arrangement and say, “this is the way to go,” I followed. So, when I was asked to step down in 2007 and 2011, I complied. This time round, I consulted widely, I have been given a nod that I should go ahead. So, the aspiration is on and on course. What is the assurance that you will get the ticket? I think it is the way you work that would determine your success. The way you sow is the way you reap. I have been a party man, I believe in the establishment, I believe in my people. I have always been living with them. And I have really been working with them. Even, it is my people that have been nudging me on that I should go to the House of Representatives. So, the chances of clinching the ticket for me, I think it is very high. So, that is what has been propelling in this aspiration. What are the developmental challenges facing Kosofe Constituency? Well, anything worth doing in life, there are always challenges. But, we look for solution for every challenge. I have come out and I have submitted my form and I have told all the leaders of my aspiration. Some of the challenges are that my party people are also coming out for the same post. And even, the incumbent, I learnt, is coming out too to re-contest. So, I have these challenges but I think they are not insurmountable. What experience qualifies you for a parliamentary role? I think what goes for me in my life is that I try to give back to the society what it has done for me. And the House of Representatives

is a lawmaking institution. I am a lawyer by profession and an environmentalist, a sociologist who has things to do with the people. Basically, my core area has always been people, people and people. For the environment, I think I will be more useful in making laws in that area to ensure that our people live healthy life and that they are well represented. My constituency in Kosofe will be well represented in the scheme of things at the national level. When you are the National Assembly, you are now in the Nigeria’s circle. And I want the federal presence in Kosofe. How do the people of the constituency perceive your ambition? The reception has been wonderful people are really identifying with me. I have been with them, so they are with me now that they know that I have an aspiration. Like I have said, they are nudging me that I should go ahead. They want Kosofe’s name to be heard nationally and be on the map of Nigeria. Who else could do it? My people are convinced that I could do it with my experience in business and my exposure in so many areas. I have attained so many things in my life that I am no more searching for any material gains again than to serve my people. Any time they come to me, they see me. Since when I have become a commissioner, they have been coming and they have been seeing me. I am not a type of commissioner that would luck myself up. They have been telling me that they want Kosofe name to ring bell in Abuja. And I am sure if I get there, it will definitely ring bell. It is my duty to make sure that Federal presence becomes more pronounced in Kosofe in every sphere of life. There are agitations for and against consensus and primaries. Where do you stand? I agree with both primaries and consensus to

What we are witnessing today in Nigeria is not governance, but misgovernance. We are witnessing a system that does not have the interest of the people of this country at heart. It is also incumbent on us as a people to vote out Goodluck Ebele Jonathan come 2015. That will bring peace, progress and development of Nigeria

‘ Day Ahmed declared for second term •Continued from page 15

•Jeje

get the candidates. Where it is possible to reach a consensus, there is no need for primaries. Primary basically, is expensive. Besides, it generates bad blood in our own clime here. So, we try to go for consensus if we can achieve it. If we cannot achieve it, then, we go for primaries. And good enough, the APC, being a new party, is trying to put its feet down that there should be primaries. I have a revised timetable that states that we should go for indirect primaries. And I think that all of us are going for primaries unless we can achieve consensus. If not, we go for primaries. We are prepared and everybody is prepared for it. I am prepared for it. Is the APC not threatened by the move by the PDP to displace the party in Lagos State? With what our administration has done in Lagos State, I believe the election would be a work over. Starting from Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu dministration down to Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), we have found ourselves at a level whereby it would be difficult for the PDP to contest with us and match us. we have convinced the people that governance can be beneficial. And having done that, the people themselves have seen that they can trust government. So, Asiwaju Tinubu, Governor Fashola have set the template for governance in Lagos State. PDP would try to show that they exist because of appointment. But unfortunately for them, there is no more appointment for them in Abuja because APC will over run them next year.

•Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (left), his wife, Florence (right) and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi (middle), when the governor paid the monarch a courtesy call in his palace recently.

them. I will come back. “This is just the endorsement of Governor Ahmed; that he will be reelected by the grace of God, with the support of you people here and those outside there. The unemployment situation will be conquered by the APC administration. We have the vision for the security of the lives of our children. “The thieves that daily steal your money have not given you any job; they cannot create jobs and they are starving states of funds to pay workers salaries. The best thing to do is to sweep them away through broom revolution. APC is a party of the masses. “It now behooves you to begin a house to house campaign that this is a party of the masses. “You had not seen Bukola and myself mounting the same podium campaigning for the same party before this time. This is a new beginning. This is a time of good things and tidings from us. We have brought good luck and commonsense revolution. “Now, it is time to apply commonsense revolution and it is about your lives. It is about your education, your jobs and about the security of this country. We stay together since independence and we will remain together. Any affecting any section of this country affects all of us. “Be ready to vote for change at the centre. The race has started again. We have endorsed Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed for a second term in office as he has performed creditably like his predecessor, Senator Bukola Saraki.” In a remark, Tambuwal said the APC would engender prosperity and eradicate poverty. He said: “By voting the APC at the centre, you will be voting for prosperity and the eradication of poverty. What we are witnessing today in Nigeria is not governance, but misgovernance. We are witnessing a system that does not have the interest of the people of this country at heart. It is also incumbent on us as a people to vote out Goodluck Ebele Jonathan come 2015. That will bring peace, progress and development of Nigeria. “In Kwara State, your political history is very rich. You have had the foundation of the political struggle of this state laid by our late leader, Dr Olusola Saraki. This structure that is being sustained by God Almighty has always delivered Kwara to the right place. I believe that this time around there will not be anything different. With the support of the people of the state APC shall form 100 percent the government in the state from the local council to state Assembly and to the government house. Eventually and ultimately, the state has always been providing leadership in the politics of this country. “When it comes to presidential elections, I am sure that the state will provide such leadership to the extent that we shall deliver this country to the government at the centre to APC.” Amaechi said: “I am very impressed with the number of persons that I have seen here today. What you must do is to stop the PDP from rigging us. You must go out that day to stop them from rigging us. 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 that nobody rigs you out. “They have soldiers and police, they do not have God. God is in the APC. That is the problem they have and once God is in APC, and we work with God, we shall defeat them.You know your governor will do better if you have an APC presidential candidate who wins the next election. The reason is that currently, they are stealing money. The money we should use in building ore schools, more hospitals, more transport and other amenities, they are putting it in their pocket. They are taking the money to South Africa. “We thank God we saw small, you do not know the ones we are not seeing. So, let’s vote them out so that we can vote in a better president from APC and our money will remain here. Can’t we manufacture our own guns? Why can’t we? Mubi has been over-ran by 30 to 40 young boys, who are not trained as soldiers? It simply shows that we are not funding our military. It is time to fund our military because our military has the capacity to chase away these boys. But we need treat our military with respect and with necessary support and we will win them. “This is the time to say the truth. The problem with the other party is that they do not know the truth and they do not say the truth at all. If a man does well, what do you tell him? You tell him ‘thank you’, is that not? And that is what we are here to do to tell your governor thank you. “The way to tell him thank you is to get up on the day of election and vote for him and vote for APC. If you tell him ‘thank you’ and you vote him back in, he will work well and better for you He had already worked. You are not testing him because you have already tested him and you know how well he has done.” Kwankwaso said: “We are removing the incompetent government in Abuja. By voting for the APC, we are bringing in employment for our young men and women. We are voting for peaceand development in Kwara and Nigeria.”

‘What you must do is to stop the PDP from rigging us. You must go out that day to stop them from rigging us. 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 that nobody rigs you out’

THE NATION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

RACE TO 2015

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For us in the APC, we know that the election is about the people. It is about what you have been able to bring to the table

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LAGOS ASSEMBLY PRIMARIES

Party leaders drum support for Ambode

Hon. Wasiu Sanni-Eshilokun is the Secretary of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC). In this interview with MUSA ODOSHIMOKHE, he speaks on zoning and the preparations for primaries.

‘APC’ll ensure level-playing ground for contestants’

OW prepared is the party for the primaries? The most important thing is that we are going to conduct our party primaries in accordance with the laid down rules. This will be done according to the directives of the executive of the party. We want to assure everybody that there will be a level-playing ground and everybody will be carried along. At present, we are working on the guidelines for the congresses and the national convention. So, we are going to conduct the primaries according to the directives of the party. What is the assurance that your party will sweep the poll next year? For us in the APC, we know that the election is about the people. It is about what you have been able to bring to the table. What did you achieve in the education sector? What are your achievements in infrastructural development such as roads, health and what have you? When we look at our score card in Lagos State, I have no doubt that we have met the aspiration of the people. There are calls for consensus candidates to foster unity in the party. What is your position? In every party, even in developed part of the world, they also use consensus. Even where consensus arrangement is adopted, the primaries will still hold to satisfy those opposed to the arrangement even if they are in minority.because . This is allowed because we are in democracy. When majority decides, the minority is still allowed to have their say. It is their right. I want to say they still have to go to the primaries and what we are doing at this level is to make sure that everything works according to the rules of the party. Even where there is a consensus, there would still be need for a convention, where the consensus candidate has to be affirmed. The affirmation must be more than those saying nay. Where there is none, we are going to conduct primaries. How is the party handing the issue of zoning and religion? The party in its wisdom has zoned the governorship position to Lagos East. But, what we are saying is that if there is anybody from the Lagos Central and Lagos West that there should be primaries, because they are contesting. Nobody has shut the doors against such aspirants. We are not going to say don’t contest because you are from Lagos Island or Mainland. There will

still be primaries. The party has just given a policy directive. We are not going to exclude the person because you are from Lagos Central. We will allow him to go to the primaries. All those who showed interest will be allowed to go through the primaries and basically the decision lies with members of the party. The APC will hold its primaries and there will be a national convention. All those who signify interest in any elective position will be allowed to contest at the primaries. People have accused the APC of lacking internal mechanism for crisis resolution... It is normal that some people felt aggrieved with the outcome of the recent congresses at the ward and local government levels. In this type of situation, all we should do is to reconcile. The party is not resting on its oars. I can assure you that all our aggrieved party members will be reconciled. Do you have confidence that INEC under Prof. Attahiru Jega will conduct credible elections next year? The National Assembly should do what is right; it must remove INEC from appendage of the Federal Government. It must ensure that it has independent revenue to be able to perform its statutory responsibilities without interference. INEC must not wait for the Presidency to be able to function. It must be removed from the appendages of the Federal Government. It must be made financially buoyant and independent to function well. INEC’s finances must be taken from the collective wealth of the nation. That is when you can say that this INEC will be independent or what have you. The mode of appointing people into INEC does not augur well for democracy. The Na-

‘The APC will hold its primaries and there will be a national convention. All those who signify interest in any elective position will be allowed to contest at the primaries’

•Sanni-Eshilokun

tional Assembly must look at all of these. It should look at how people are appointed to the body and ensure that those who are not politically affiliated are the ones who get into the electoral body. Appointment into INEC should be based purely on professional grounds and not by political party affiliation. When you have biased people as members of INEC, you cannot be too sure they will conduct credible election. My appeal as they are considering the amendment of the constitution, they must consider the act that establishes INEC. They must ensure that INEC is truly independent. The PDP appears to be on resurgence in the Southwest. Would it constitute a serious threat in next year’s general elections? Let me say that the movement is not based on popular will. It is based on imagination. In Ekiti, what they did prior to the election by arresting some leaders of the APC is bad. They created fear in the minds of the people. They used the police and soldiers to intimidate the people who would have voted for the APC. The same thing was repeated in Osun, but the APC was wiser; we were able to re-orientate our members, to ensure there is no power vacuum. It is something like, if Mr. A was arrested Mr. B should take over and continue the mobilisation and if B is arrested Mr. C should take over and must not be cowed. The Nigeria police and army must not begin to subvert the will of the Nigerian people. It cannot continue this way. In Ekiti, the local governments created by your party were scrapped by the new government. How do you see this? That is a gross misconduct. What he should have done was to create another law or send a bill to the Ekiti State House of Assembly to abrogate the law that created the local government. In democracy, you must obey the laws of the land. If you don’t send another bill to the House to abrogate it, your action would be null and void. It is only the House that can do that. Otherwise you wait till the time when you have control of the assembly before you do that.

AGOS State All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode’s quest for the governorship has received a major boost. Party arty leaders in Ikorodu, Alimosho, Badagry and Ojo local governments adopted him, ahead of the primaries. Amobode is on the last lap of his tour of the 20 local governemt areas and the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). In Ikorodu, the former deputy governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, led other notable leaders, including Olorunfemi Basorun, the Secreatary to Government (SSG), former Agriculture Commissioner Asipa Kaoli Olusanya, and Mrs Aderenle Ogunsanya to welcome him. Ambode told them that his bid is borne out of his passion for service. He promised to implement the manifesto of the party for the welfare of Lagosians. He also promised to give government back to the people by strengthening the LGAs and the LCDAs to take government nearer to the people. Ambode said he decided to start his tour from Ikorodu because of its socio-economic importance. He promised a good welfare package and infrastructural development. Ogunleye thanked Ambode for the visit. He said the leaders have no doubt on his capacity to rule Lagos and promised him their support. He advised him to carry the party leaders along in his programmes and policies. At Alimosho local government area, which is one of the biggest local governments in Africa, High Chief Solomon Ogundola led other leaders, including Titi Adebayo, the woman leader, Alhaji Waheed Orire, Alhaji Abdulahi Enilolonbo, Alhaji Yisa Yusuf, Hon. Femi Adebanjo, and Olusegun Sodiya to receive the aspirant. Ambode said he is not a stranger to Alimosho LGA, having served there for three years as a treasurer. He expressed his total commitment to the advancement of the LGA and pleaded that the leaders should give him their support during the forthcoming primaries. He promised, if he becomes the governor, he will open up Alimosho to provide opportunity for the people, including youths and women. In his response, Chief Ogunsola, welcomed Amobde to Alimosho ,which he described as the “country home” of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the National leader of the APC. He said that the local government could produce the votes, which determine who becomes the governor. He said this is the first time any aspirant will be given a full complement of the party leadership in the local government. He pointed out that the LGA has continued to enjoy the infrastructural development, right from the time of Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola. He urged Ambode to initiate new projects in the area to better the lot of the people. At Badagry, it was an awesome event. Ambode was received by former Head of Service and Special Adviser Hon. Sunny Ajose . The leaders assured him of their support. Ambode expressed his readiness to take Lagos to greater heights, if given the opportunity to govern the state. He said he is conversant with Badagry and its environment and the critical place it occupies in Lagos. He promised an all-inclusive governance where the less privileged and rural communities will enjoy the dividends of democracy. Ambose said the massive infrastructural transformation going on in Badagry will not only continue, but new projects will also be initiated to open up the ancient town. •Ambode

Aspirant sues for peace

HEAD of the primaries of the All Progressives Congress, an aspirant to the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Kola OKesanjo, has called for peace and harmony among party members. In a statement in Lagos, he said that the circumstances in the party required that every leader and member should eschew any action capable of causing violence, adding that the exercise should be done in consonance with the principles of democracy. According to him, the objectives of democracy can only be realised in the atmosphere of peace and decorum. He said members should embrace peaceful and see the primaries as an avenue to select leaders who will serve the people. “It is important to enjoin our teeming supporters in Lagos State to be actively involved in the scheduled primaries at the weekend and should do so in a peaceful manner. It is an avenue to pick dedicated leaders who are genuinely interested in the service of our people. It is basically a democratic exercise and everyone will agree with me that in all of this, peace is very significant if we truly believe and embrace genuine democracy. It should not be a do or die affair”, he added. Okesanjo appealed to the APC leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to remain focused as the guardian of the process. He urged win to disregard the sentiments initiated by an aggrieved characters to cause mischief and distraction among leaders and members of the party in the state. He said that the APC is a formidable party, which will not only continue to flourish but win in the general elections.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

SHOWBIZ BBA: Housemates lose wager again

AFRIFF 2014: Participants raise concerns at film workshop

•As Biggie’s alter ego takes charge

ITH more than half of the Federal Government’s N3billion grant for the movie industry being proposed for film distribution and exhibition, there are indications filmmakers are beginning to tackle their problems from where it matters most. Series of discussions abound on how best to minimize the menace of piracy by making films available to consumers en masse and simultaneously, with the conversation shifting to the ongoing Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), in Calabar, Cross River State. Tagged Demystifying Distribution in Nigeria, the event was part of the industry sessions where actors, filmmakers, film marketers, distribution houses and various professional guilds in the entertainment industry gathered to chart a new course for African cinema. The forum, which held Tuesday, had panelists such as filmmaker and distributor, Gab Okoye (Gabosky), Chief Executive of FilmHouse Cinemas, Kene Mkparu, notable distributor Uwem Jacobs and Chichi Nworah of Ibaka TV, averred that distribution is still an issue in the film in-

• Relativity session at AFRIFF By Victor Akande

dustry otherwise called Nollywood. They reasoned that Nigerian filmmakers will continue to earn little or nothing from their movies until there is a properly structured distribution framework for the film industry. According to Okoye, producer of the 1992 video films, Battle of Musanga and Nneka the Pretty Serpent, piracy is thriving because of the scarcity caused by the existing poor distribution network. “When we initiated Nollywood, we didn’t have a distribution network. We were doing analogue distribution with its attendant problems. We then realised that piracy was thriving on scarcity so I decided to float a distribution chain after I had been licensed by government. Now I have G-

Media which has offices in 20 states to bridge the gap,” said Okoye. He noted that the most important thing for a filmmaker is get a distribution guarantee from a distributor before shooting his/her film. “We are talking of a paradigm shift here. We started unprofessionally but now we must professionalise. Division of labour in the movie industry is essential and we must not abuse the distribution process,” he emphasised. On whether cinema is the answer to the distribution issue, Mkparu said it is to an extent but that the movie producer must first know why and who he/she is making the film for. He noted that, “because of issues with DVD and CD, cinema became important. But even at that, cinema alone is

not the answer. Producers spend very little on print and advertising. You need at least N15 million for publicity but most don’t do that. Then, most producers focus on Lagos alone when there are cinemas elsewhere.” For Jacobs, filmmakers need to know more about the film industry and decide how they are going to distribute their movie right from when they are planning their production. Nworah, who spoke in the same vein, said Ibaka TV has two platforms where it uploads movies. There is the YouTube channel where average films are uploaded and the premium platform where movies of cinema quality are shown. She however urged filmmakers to ensure that their works is of the highest standards to increase their earnings.

By Victor Akande

OUSEMATES in the ongoing Big Brother Africa Hotshots have again lost their wager, for failing to impress Biggie, the voyeur master of the game, who had saddled the two groups with the task of producing silent movies. Caught completely unawares, housemates simply could not believe nor trust the outcome, even as Nigerian housemate, Tayo insisted over and over again that it just could not be. They think that Biggie’s inappropriate little sister or perhaps alter ego, was clearly large and in charge and she might just have been too hard to please. After all their practising with the pianist, the costumes, set, props and their effort it seemed Biggie had left them in the care – or lack of care – of his harsh counterpart. Feeling robbed, fooled and abandoned housemates each skirted around their emotions trying hard to avoid reaching their boiling points. The silent movies performed by each team were entertaining and housemates did their best to live up to the brief, rehearsing night and day, taking direction from the pianist and finally looking the part. From what we could tell, team A’s storyline centred around a little boy who was being bullied at school and got into trouble for trying to fit in. Sheillah and Trezagah threw themselves in their roles as the bullies while Ellah was his poor mother, caught in the middle in a bid to protect her son. Team B’s movie was a love story with Tayo at the centre of what seemed like a love triangle. After courting Goitse she fell head over heels for him. Along the way he met a girl named Samantha and it was like love at first sight – ironically enough. One thing led to the next and Tayo was forced to make a decision and pick one. He picked Samantha and for Goitse this spelled the end, how could she live, if living was without him? Their movie ends tragically with her tying a noose around her neck to kill herself. Like they did in the old days of silent movies, housemates were to promote Style Up, a proudly Africa hair brand. But things were different with Biggie’s inappropriate sister, to her all the “over-acting, prancing around and bad singing” amounted to zilch because it simply failed to impress her. In her assessment over the week housemates left a lot to be desired when it came to team work, and there was a lot of snoozing in the background. With their attention focused on squabbling and pushing one another’s buttons, they didn’t give 100 percent effort this week.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

COMMENTARY LETTER

EDITORIAL

Away from danger •Govt must fulfill its promises to the 2,400 students moved to Unity Schools from the north east

S part of its response to the attacks on educational institutions in the north eastern part of the country, the Federal Government has moved 2,400 students from their various schools to Federal Unity Schools of their choice. The Students’ parents - 800 each from the three states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe that are currently under emergency rule as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency - have consented to the idea and had indeed signed that their wards be transferred to the Unity Schools in places they consider more secure. Unity Schools were established partly to bring Nigerians from all parts of the country together at tender ages and inculcate in them the importance of togetherness and unity. So, in a sense, the transfer of the students from the volatile region to these schools fulfills one of the criteria for the setting up of the schools. The snag however is that it was not a choice they willingly made; rather, it was imposed by circumstances beyond their control. At a glance therefore, the ‘forced’ transfer of the students signposts the failure of government in its core responsibility of guaranteeing the security of lives and property, which is the raison d’être of any government properly socalled. But it would appear the most pragmatic thing to do, given the realities on ground. Young boys and girls who crave western education, especially in a region where some misguided elements are now painting education as ‘sinful’ ought to be

given the necessary encouragement and support that they need to realise their potential. Most of the foot soldiers of the Boko Haram insurgents were recruited largely from the army of illiterates that roam the streets of the region and other parts of the north. They have no hope of any better life today, even as their tomorrow appears forlorn. So, they are susceptible to being brainwashed and naturally get excited by any assignments that would fetch them some money, no matter how heinous such jobs may be. It is against this background that we commend the government for acceding to the requests of the parents who asked that their children be transferred to the Unity Schools, instead of keep assuring them, as usual, of their safety which it obviously cannot guarantee. We have lost too many of our innocent young ones to the senseless killings by Boko Haram and we need not gamble any longer with the lives of the country’s future leaders. However, having agreed to move the students to the Unity Schools, the government must honour its obligations to them and their parents as it promised. They should not be abandoned midway as is usual with many government initiatives. In this light, the government should realise that the Safe Schools Initiative, under which arrangement it has moved the students is funded not only locally, but also with assistance from outside the country. So, the ‘Nigerian factor’ should not come into play in its implementation. We cannot be doing things in a wrong way

and expect others to come down to our own standards only to turn round to accuse them of not supporting us. While we commend all those that are financing the initiative, we urge the Federal Government to implement it in a way that would make further assistance possible and not in a way to shut the door against such. It is equally important for the government to know that the remaining students who have opted to remain in their respective schools in the region deserve protection. We can begin to consider basic safety measures such as perimeter fencing, gates and electronic surveillance, starting with schools in the hottest trouble spots. If we fail to help the youths achieve their hearts’ desires today, they would be the ones to torment us tomorrow, exactly the same way Boko Haram insurgents are doing today.

‘However, having agreed to move the students to the Unity Schools, the government must honour its obligations to them and their parents as it promised. They should not be abandoned midway as is usual with many government initiatives’

HIV-challenged protesters •It is sad that we abandoned People Living With HIV/AIDS to their own devices

T is bad enough that in Nigeria over 3.5 million individuals are reportedly members of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NEPWHAN). It is doubly terrible that in the country only 649,000 HIV-positive persons, out of 1.8 million who are in need of antiretroviral drugs, allegedly have access to the care. Against this disturbing backdrop, it was perhaps understandable, though equally worrying, that no fewer than 300 NEPWHAN protesters disrupted official activities at the Abuja headquarters of the National Agency for the Control of HIV/ AIDS (NACA), in an expression of bitterness over alleged neglect of the group’s members. It is a sad reflection of the depth of the group’s grievances that its spokesman, Mr. Sumaila Garba, was quoted as saying that the protesters would ensure that the NACA office was not functional for 25 days.

‘The reality of a large HIVchallenged population, which cannot be wished away, should reasonably galvanise the government into action. This constitutes a vulnerable ring and the importance of proper governmental attention to the welfare of those who are living with the virus must be considered non-negotiable’

It is instructive to note that NEPWHAN National Secretary, Mr. Victor Omosahon, shed light on its confrontational approach. He said: “We are concerned about the miserable conditions of the people living with the virus in Nigeria, as well as the high number of people dying daily from AIDSrelated complications due to the lack of access to antiretroviral drugs and the on-going withdrawal of funding support for HIV/ AIDS to Nigeria by external funding partners.” Further unsettling is the group’s more specific accusation that NACA has failed in the implementation of the Presidential Comprehensive Response Plan (PCRP) introduced by President Goodluck Jonathan to tackle the treatment access problems, among others. This particular allegation is of scary significance, considering Jonathan’s intention announced at the launch of the initiative last year. He said: “This programme will help us bridge existing service gaps, address key financial, system and coordination challenges in current HIV/AIDS response systems.” It goes without saying that failure in this regard will have unimaginably negative consequences for the affected people, and those who are in charge must not allow a debacle. It should be said and stressed that, from the state of things, it would appear that the authorities are, consciously or not, creating an enabling environment for a disaster. Or how else should the insight, provided by the Director-General of NACA, Prof. John Idoko, be interpreted? A defensive Idoko not only pointed out that the Federal Government’s programme “is starting now, after about 10 years of waiting”. He was

quoted as saying: “But it is very far from where we should be. The fund for this today should be like N140bn, but only N8bn has been appropriated.” This represents a damning picture of the level of commitment of the powers that be when it comes to addressing public health issues, among which the HIV/ AIDS burden ranks high. Nigeria has the second-largest number of people living with HIV, according to the 2012 CIA World Factbook, which is a gloomy piece of information indeed. Apart from this, approximately 170,000 people died from AIDS in 2007 alone, according to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS). Almost three decades after HIV/AIDS was first reported in Nigeria, as the NEPWHAN demonstration has shown, the country is still a long way from overcoming what critical observers have identified as roadblocks, namely, “lack of sincerity, poor funds administration, unclear motives and lax attitude of government officials.” The ugly incident should be probed. Furthermore, it should be seen as an opportunity for the government to seriously review what President Jonathan himself described as “the framework for sustainable financing of health to meet the targeted objectives.” The reality of a large HIV-challenged population, which cannot be wished away, should reasonably galvanise the government into action. This constitutes a vulnerable ring and the importance of proper governmental attention to the welfare of those who are living with the virus must be considered non-negotiable.

Britain needs Nigeria

IR: France and Britain colonised most countries in the world. For instance, at the apogee of her conquest spree, Britain reportedly controlled over one fifth of the world’s population. Among the major countries that Britain colonised include USA, India, Nigeria, Malaysia and South Africa. These countries currently boost of over 1.8 billion people. France on her own colonised, among others, Cameroon, Senegal, Togo and Burkina Faso etc. The colonial masters notably, Britain, France, Portugal, Italy, Germany and Spain, had in an agreement in 1884 in a meeting called by German Rod Von Bismark shared Africa among themselves in response to a conflict between Britain and France about some parts of Nigeria. These two countries wanted to control the areas that have the largest population and resources in Africa. After the agreement, the two settled their differences and continued with their conquest. There are insinuations that France hates Nigeria. Some claimed that France is using her colonised countries to cause havoc in Nigeria. There are claims that France was among the greatest contributors to Biafra during the civil war. Also, Israel and the Vatican were believed to have strongly supported Biafra for different motives. For France, it was to divide Nigeria as that will be advantageous to France colonised countries in Africa. The Vatican motive was because of its notion that Christians were been killed. With the current insurgency in the North east, there are also reports that Israel and France are supporting it. Yet, the three countries bordering Borno state are Francophone countries. But if what the people are saying is true, why did Britain and USA maintain a neutral posture on this issue? MI 6 of Britain and CIA of US are among the most sophisticated secret services in the world and it will be wrong for the two powerful countries to pretend not to know what is happening? Ever since, Nigeria has been on Britain and US “special interest areas;” does it mean that they are no longer interested in Nigeria? It will be recalled that when there were problems in some Francophone countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and CAR, it was France that settled it. Now the crisis in Nigeria - if any help is needed, Britain is expected to help even though France has reportedly sent troops to advice the Nigerian army. An international summit has been held in France and Niger republic - which is also a Francophone country, what is really happening? It will be cowardly of Britain and USA to forsake Nigeria and allow France to destroy it. If Britain is no longer interested in Nigeria, she should let us be. • Comrade Abdulbaqi Aliyu Jari Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto State.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: From Qatar to Kuwait all the way to Venezuela, and even in Nigeria, one sound rings clear on the balance sheets of these countries: revenue from oil is declining. The drastic fall of oil prices is making many of the oil producing nations tighten their belts and make adjustments in the national budget. This fall in revenue will surely necessitate a reduction in spending by oil producing nations across the world. Nigeria, which is presently battling lots of challenges, will also have her own share of cuts on spending. However, as price of oil goes on a freefall, Nigeria is being shielded by the Excess Crude Account! As a reminder, the Excess Crude Account (ECA) came to reality through Dr. Okonjo-Iweala during the Obasanjo era. ECA was envisaged to warehouse proceeds from oil revenue that shoots above the annual budget projections. The idea behind the establishment of the ECA then was that if oil price, like we are having now, or output unexpectedly falls, Nigeria will be under no pressure to forcibly borrow at high cost in order to fund revenue shortfalls. Seeing things in different light, the National Assembly, especially the House of Representatives, have been up in arms battling the Minister for this noble idea. It is amazing that the reps don’t take into consideration that numerous OPEC countries adopt comparatively much lower crude oil budget benchmarks than Nigeria. Members of the House Commit-

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Falling oil prices and raining day tee on Finance fail to understand the gains inherent in ECA. They fail to understand that the establishment of the ECA is actually empowered through Section 162(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which provides that the federation shall maintain a special account into which shall be paid all revenue collected by the federal government. Likewise, Section 35(1) of the 2007 Fiscal Responsibility Act stipulates that “Where a reference commodity price rises above the predetermined level, the resulting excess

proceeds shall be saved”. In further justification of the rationale for the establishment of the ECA, the Minister cited Section 16(1a) of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates that “…the State shall harness the resources of the nation, and promote national prosperity and an efficient, dynamic and self-reliant economy”. In spite of this constitutional justification for the ECA, the House of Reps didn’t fail every year to invoke Sections 59, 81 and 82 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which empower them to juggle the na-

tional budget’s estimate by constantly increasing the benchmark of the budget. They believe that the raining days is here and we must spend all that we earn at a go! In 2013, the benchmark was increased from $75 per barrel that the executive proposed to $80, while the Senate took a middle position and pegged its own benchmark for $78. In arriving at this decision, the House of Representatives posit that increasing the benchmark will reduce the budget deficit and domestic debts by as much as 66%. While

Lessons from fall of Berlin Wall

IR: Citizens of the Federal Republic of Germany the other day celebrated the 25th year anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall which occurred on November 9, 1989. The great feat brought together East and West German people. That historic unification might not have been possible without the conscientious idealistic efforts of so many people, some of whom include John F Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Mikhail Gorbachev and many people on both sides of the German divide. I watched a CNN

correspondent, Jonathan Mann on television during the celebration of that day in 1989 as a young reporter where he gave a report from Germany on the jubilant moment. 25 years later, Jonathan is still with the CNN but now a well groomed and oriented journalist. I wish same can relate to Nigerian politicians who should be well groomed to serve beyond self while in office. I wish political parties can present dependable people for elections with experience to manage the plethora of problems bedevilling the polity.

People who do not engage in acts akin to sock puppetry and who understand the role of the opposition in a democracy should henceforth come forward. Nigerians would love to see politicians with great promises go into government only after genuinely soliciting for votes from the electorate. People with real demonstrable political skill and sound leadership ability for controlling crisis are needed to wriggle the country out of her present leadership impasse. The nation needs political figures who truly understand that elective office is all

Save me from PHCN’s tyranny

IR: Is it possible for a stranger to go to somebody’s house and remove his property without his consent? This has been happening to me since 2010 and it is far from subsiding. The latest of such affronts occurred again on October 28, 2014 when my entire family was away from home. Before our return

opposing the position of the national assembly, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala warns that jerking the oil benchmark to $80 will affect Nigeria’s credit rating; make borrowing more expensive; lower the Foreign Direct Investment; impact negatively on macroeconomic stability, and the country will lose $20 instead of gaining $5. It is obvious that the Minister of Finance has made the right decision by establishing the ECA and ensuring that the account is constantly being enriched despite opposition from the National Assembly. Pray, what would have happened to the Nigerian economy in this season of economic uncertainty as the price of oil goes on downward path? The ECA is coming handy this season guiding against our nation going broke. • Abdullahi M. Seidu, Abuja.

in the evening, my prepaid meter which I paid for had been stolen with the service wire. It was with the help of the police that I later discovered that the PHCN in Romi, Kaduna state branch office that took my pre-paid meter away for no just reason. Upon enquiries, the branch manager confessed that

he wanted to connect me to another free meter from the World Bank and that he took the one I bought from PHCN with the sum of 25 thousand naira to another person who do not have meter. My request to be given another meter has not yielded any result and this is not funny at all. I want to use this avenue to call on

good Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora, human right activists, civil societies, lawyers and wellwishers to join me fight this menace to a halt by supporting me as I am preparing for a redress this time around. • Onuoja Ojodomo, Romi, Kaduna.

about solving problems; who appreciate the importance of concessional politics for peace, especially in a fickle country like ours. Like the Germans, we need genuine statesmen to teach our children the importance of service beyond self which must form the bedrock of our educational curriculum to enable a child grow with the concept of seeing life beyond a narrow indoctrinated perspective. Like the Germans, we need leaders that appreciate the power of reason to stop the insurgency ravaging our country and rebuild Nigeria, for, “where excessive emotion takes root, reason takes flight.” Like the Germans, we need leaders with the will to do and solve problems which is the essence of politics and not leaders interested only in making history by the number of years they serve(d) in office. • Simon Abah Port Harcourt Rivers State

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014 16

COMMENTS

Nigeria will be finished Email: tunji_ololade@yahoo.co.uk 08038551123, 08111845040

E belabour the ‘Nigerian dream.’ We abuse the idea that life will get better, that progress is assured if we keep faith, obey the rules and work hard, that prosperity is guaranteed if we continue to tread the slow, steady path to progress and a prosperous future. And in pursuit of these lofty ideals, we pervert the steady, measured, impartial course of the universe; hacking pliant paths to our dreams, from the crossroads where gluttony fosters depravity. Eventually, we awaken to a cold, bitter truth: We are being sacrificed. The Nigerian dream we are sold isn’t worth our sacrifice. And the individual dreams we pursue, aren’t worth a smidgen of what we make them out to be. By the time we all struggle to achieve our dreams; Nigeria will be finished. Given that each tribe may finally achieve its dreams of nationhood via secession, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw to mention a few may establish their new nations. When we do, the swollen belly of our idiocy and pride shall become clearly visible to us. When it does,

it shall suddenly dawn on us that, all along, we had been blindly acting to a script prepared by career predators from Western nations of Europe, America and our ruling class. The truth shall become clearer to us in intensity and impact and we shall hopelessly realize that we are being sacrificed. We will all be sacrificed; some of us much quicker than others. As it is now, so shall it be in our new nations, the Biafran youth, Ijaw youth, Oodua youth and Arewa youth to mention a few, shall become disposable indices in the scheme of things. But until then, we will continue to have today and squander it on the altar of racism and greed. Today, it’s impossible to see any offspring of our ruling class engage or become embroiled in the familiar tragedies that mar our lives. It’s always the children from the breadlines, struggling middle class and backwaters that are involved. We are the youth divide traditionally expected and required to function and serve as unquestioning muscles and ordinary cannon fodder in

‘We seem beset by a greater and unexplainable fear beyond the fear of poverty amongst other harsh realities of their lives. Fear plays a greater part than hope: we are infinitely buoyed and obsessed with thoughts of the money that we could make or the possessions that might be taken from us or elude us, than of the joy and value that we might add to our own lives and to the future of our fatherland’

IGERIAN political parties and politicians have over the years been linked with nepotism, tribalism, political intolerance, political violence, love of public office, maladministration, mismanagement of the economy, embezzlement of public funds, and breakdown of law and order. As a result, insufficient attention has been paid to the major responsibility of achieving nationhood through cohesion and integration. But attention must now be paid to them because investigation has shown that the above mentioned factors have been the bane of meaningful growth and development of our country, Nigeria. The lack of nationhood has definitely contributed to our slow level of progress and it is high time we began to champion the task of nation building because tribalism, ethnicity, sectionalism, partisanship, religiosity, federal character and zoning among others are inflicting pains on the people and this pain is becoming more difficult to endure. The Ibos are marginalized; there is dispute over land and borders; politicians are always fighting in the interest of their state, local government, constituency and the region; there is also stereotype about one tribe or the other among the different ethnic groups. These have serious impact on the cohesion and integration of the diversities of cultures and ethnic groups as well as the relationship among those who make decisions, laws and policies that affect us. It is for this reason that frantic effort must be made by every Nigerian to discourage these vices. This is not to say that tribe and ethnicity does not matter in our society but we need to look beyond them in steering the ship of our country. The evolution of an attitude that shows we are all one begins with knowing how debilitating the promotion of ethnicity and tribalism are. At this point in our national life, the call for national unity and achieving nationhood may not be a novelty but political parties and politicians cannot afford to shut their ears to this important call because there must be a paradigm shift from the way the affairs of government is run and how the people are mobilised. We need to move away from the old ways of doing things. This is the 21st century, things must not remain the same nor the way they have always been. Nigerians are one regardless of our tribe, culture, tradition, region and religion. Sectionalism, tribalism and nativism no longer thrive in modern societies. We all know what is right but we hardly make an effort. We have the capacity to support

the ruling class’ blueprint of pillage and destruction. The decline of Nigeria is a story of gross injustices by the ruling class to the citizenry. But that is only an aspect of it, the greatest injustice is that meted out by individual citizen to self – the youth particularly. And this predominant malaise often plays out in our corruptibility and disinclination to foster a more humane leadership and society. Today, we suffer declining standards of living, stagnant and falling wages that are hardly paid at due time; we suffer curtailment and absolute denial of our basic wages, long-term unemployment, slave labour, escalating crime wave, among other ills. Together, we perpetuate gruesome realities of the weakest being crushed decisively and maniacally by the affluent and strong. Together, we perpetuate a story of unbridled sectarian, ethnic and corporate power that has taken our government hostage, overseen the dismantling of our cultural heritage, societal and entrepreneurial values. But if the ruling class, in connivance with predatory nations and institutions from the so-called ‘first world’ is responsible for plundering our natural resources and bankrupting the nation, we, the youth, are responsible for even worse atrocities. We serve as the tools by which the ruling class and its cohorts overseas plunder and destroy our nation. The virus of political corruption, the perverted belief that only political and material profit matters, has spread to distort our thoughts and understanding of right and wrong. Today, it manifests in endemic proportions plaguing our communities with religious and political terrorism, economic and cyber-terrorism to mention a few.

Today, the Nigerian society dies a gruesome death basically because we lay to waste, our youths and we, the latter, by our suicidal actions and thoughts, submit ourselves as hopeless prey to the Nigerian ruling class and their cohorts overseas. Everyday encounters with gluttonous gangs of struggling youth reveals among other things, that many of us are the same social products as our peer from the aristocratic divide. Conditioned by life’s harshest vicissitudes to survive at all cost, we lay in wait, striving and bidding our time until we are ably positioned and strong enough to serve or rob the rich whose life we earnestly covet and decry. A visit to any night club, party, religious organization or office still attests to this fact. Ambitious and upwardly mobile youth from the breadlines or struggling working class families engage in a variety of excesses to the applause of mates yearning to be in their shoes. Either as advance fee fraudsters, bankers, journalists, accountants, secretaries, factory hands or ordinary clerks, youths from the breadlines daily engages in a bitter, desperate struggle to chance on the shortest possible cut to sudden and stupendous wealth. We seem beset by a greater and unexplainable fear beyond the fear of poverty amongst other harsh realities of their lives. Fear plays a greater part than hope: we are infinitely buoyed and obsessed with thoughts of the money that we could make or the possessions that might be taken from us or elude us, than of the joy and value that we might add to our own lives and to the future of our fatherland. Most of us, like our more privileged peer crave the best of everything without actually sweating for it. And when we do sweat for it, our industry is tainted by vigorous dashes of impatience and duplicity.

In our work, we are haunted by jealousy of competitors, and a fleeting interest in the actual work that has to be done. We spend greater time and passion defending unjust privileges that we are desperate to enjoy. Such appalling youth constitute a greater segment of the human element expected to salvage Nigeria from eternal ruin and bloodbath. Consequently, our society becomes more rudderless and unstable and vulnerable, on our watch. Now that Nigeria as our fathers, ‘the wasted generation’ made it, and we the youth, aggravate it, have begun to collapse, we withdraw from the possibility of rebirth, and instead choose to exploit the infinite possibilities in our fragility and predicted collapse. It’s about time the Nigerian youth started postponing immediate gratification and endure hard sacrifices spurred by conviction that the future can be better than the past. Beyond the politics and inanities of our existing ruling class and political parties, we face far more difficult questions at our moment in history: How do we reconcile reality with promises that have been made to us? How do we make the best of our circumstances at the backdrop of indefensible leadership failure and disillusionment of the citizenry? How do we evolve and nurture to fruition, a new vision to help us deal with our gruesome realities, even as we chart a promising story of the future? How do we divorce ourselves from the pains and disappointments of the past – particularly those that many of amongst us had no stake in but yet internalize and perpetuate unexplainable miseries thereby? How do we redefine “Peace, Unity and Progress” with our lust for “Life, Liberty and Happiness?” How do we become more human than we are now?

The time for national unity is now By Bolaji Samson Aregbeshola one another and breakaway from the past but we are always resistant. Though it may be difficult to shift away from the aforementioned factors that impede the progress of Nigeria due to fear but becoming aware of the success it brings to us as a country will make Nigerians evolve over time. The problem posed by disunity in Nigeria should be a source of concern to politicians who also double as leaders of government because Nigeria is experiencing a setback on account of tribalism, ethnicity, sectionalism, zoning and federal character. But it is also important to state that government alone cannot foster national unity. It is the collective responsibility of every Nigerian. Nigeria really needs to be united as well as become a nation, and to say that these factors mentioned above does not impede our progress is to close our eyes to the realities on ground. Disunity is causing us a lot of problems especially in forging ahead. All the tribes, ethnic groups, regions and sections of our society are suffering from the consequences of disunity and hence, all hands must be on deck to ensure that Nigeria becomes united and achieve nationhood. There is no gainsaying the fact that its benefits are immeasurable as it will lead to a steady pace of progress among others. For the first time in the history of our country, Nigerians showed the possibility of achieving unity in what was tagged 'the freest and fairest election' in which the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and his running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe were voted as president and vice-president respectively by majority of Nigerians irrespective of tribe, region, ethnicity and religion. This is just to draw our attention to what we were able to achieve through unity even though the election was later annulled by General Ibrahim Babaginda. Many Nigerians made a remarkable decision on June 12, 1993 and this is an indication that such feat can be attained once again in the history of our country, Nigeria. It does not matter if it is going to take years to achieve unity and nationhood. We can make it if we all work hard at it; we must not give up until every Nigerian be-

gins to have an outlook of one Nigeria. No tribe or ethnic group is superior to the other; hence, equal opportunity should be given to all the tribes and ethnic groups in Nigeria. Furthermore, it is saddening to know that some ministries had from independence been headed by individuals from certain region or state. This is a case of blatant tribalism. In the same vein, some tribe and ethnic group do not feel a part of Nigeria because they have been side-lined. They feel unimportant. A notion they have due to the nonchalant attitude of Nigerian leaders. The citizenship of such tribes means nothing to the ruling class and this ought not to be. No doubt, togetherness will help us achieve more as individuals. Although, it's an assertion based largely on the writer's opinion, investigation and studies but I think it's true. It pays to serve the interest of one another—becoming your brother's keeper. It is a widespread believe that united we stand, divided we fall. We can hardly achieve more as a country if tribalism and sectionalism continues. Countries that have become united have proven that it is the path of progress. There should be no disparity on the basis of tribe and ethnicity in governance. Thus, government have a big role to play in championing the course of national unity and nationhood which is yet to be achieved after 54 years of independence. • Aregbeshola is the author of Nigerians Political Parties and Politicians: Winding Road from Country to Nation.

‘It does not matter if it is going to take years to achieve unity and nationhood. We can make it if we all work hard at it; we must not give up until every Nigerian begins to have an outlook of one Nigeria. No tribe or ethnic group is superior to the other; hence, equal opportunity should be given to all the tribes and ethnic groups in Nigeria’

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

COMMENTS “I love the name of honour more than I fear death.” -- William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar

INCE my Advanced Level study years at the Ogun State Polytechnic (now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic), Abeokuta, in the mid-eighties, I had come to admire one of the quotes in Ralph Waldo Emerson’s (1803-1882) "The Conduct of Life." The edifying book is a collection of essays published in 1860. Emerson was the first American author known to receive payment for delivering a talk when he was paid $5 and oats for his horse. The quote, which can be found on page 91 of the book, goes thus: ‘The louder he talked of his honour, the faster we counted our spoons.’ The nuance of this quote was what came to my mind since the newest “political saint” in the Centre of Excellence’s political firmament, Muiz Banire, protégé of Oba Olatunji Hamzat and former Commissioner for Transport/Environment in Lagos State for 12 years, threw all decorum to the winds and in the process, portraying himself to the discernible as hypocritical harbinger of falsehearted struggle against what he calls political ‘imposition’. So, when l read his largely duplicitous recent paper delivered in Osogbo, my immediate response was: ‘why would he be writing something that is capable of projecting a party he currently serves as national legal adviser as a bunch of dictators?’ While still ruminating over the genuineness of his intent, he, symptomatic of a loose cannon - this time in a November 9, 2014 granted another interview to Premium Times, a popular online newspaper. His latest imprudence was titled: ‘APC may lose Lagos in 2015, National Legal Adviser, Muiz Banire, warns.’ He actually threatened brimstone when asked to name those he accused of using state resources to promote personal political causes. He declared: ‘We are going to define that very soon. Any time from December 3rd, we’ll start defining and documenting it appropriately.’ When asked if Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s influence is waning, particularly in Lagos APC, he said: ‘Number one, APC is a new creation, it’s not ACN. APC is a much bigger party, and it’s a conglomeration of several interests. So, to that extent, one person cannot be in charge again. So for now, everybody is in charge, every party member is in charge now unlike before. So that’s the difference.’ And surprisingly, Muiz deludingly thought himself to be one of those in charge, may be because he had the undeserving privilege of imposing candidates in the past. His final word in the interview was that the people should not ‘feel intimidated by

HE prestigious University of Ibadan, Oyo State capital, is on Monday making history by bestowing its wellthought-out award of the Doctor of Law on an exceptional courtroom firebrand, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), just a day to his birthday. Honouring this legal potentate is not a surprise to many, especially those who know his impressive antecedents, exemplary work ethics and inspiring penchant for excellence. He is a distinguished jurisprudential pontiff and a rare legal icon. It is incontrovertible that Chief Olanipekun is an accomplished, world-acclaimed and versatile legal luminary. He is an elder statesman, frontline national figure and outstanding mentor of lawyers. He has worked relentlessly to build an imperishable legacy of irresistible virtues for the legal profession. The book of Proverb 22:29 says: “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men”. This Biblical passage exemplifies the life of Chief Olanipekun, who epitomises diligence, assiduity, honour, integrity, compassion, benevolence and indeed, finesse. I can attest to the fact that the secret behind his phenomenal success is hard work and stubborn proclivity for distinction. No wonder that Henry Wordsworth Longfellow said in his ‘The Ladder of Saint Augustine’ that ‘The heights by which great men reached and kept are not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.’ Chief, as we fondly call him, inspires young lawyers to high heavens. He is a voracious reader that goes through every literature that comes his way. He often tells us that a lawyer must know what is happening around him; he reads all major newspapers published in Nigeria every day! Chief Olanipekun is a quintessential and irrepressible advocate. Watching him in action in court reveals a lawyer very deep in

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Muiz Banire’s perfidious hypocrisy

•Muiz Banire anybody because nobody is god.’ He equally stated that he believes that ‘…. we have equal rights to aspire to anything. And you need not have any godfather before you can be anything, particularly in APC.’ Let him tell the world the true statement of his bank statement in 1999 and whatever he is today is courtesy of Oba Hamzat and particularly Asiwaju. What are these people to this man of ingratitude? Banire’s outbursts are covert vituperations on Asiwaju Tinubu, former Lagos governor and political iconoclast. Let me quickly state here that while Tinubu is fallible, being a human but Banire is an ungrateful element masquerading as champion of the people. What should be of concern is that Banire, for obvious selfish political reasons, has chosen to wash in public what he has overtime consistently benefited from. If he thinks he would at the end of the day benefit from his own hypocrisy by destroying Asiwaju, his waterloo awaits him.

Banire is the type of self professed leader that Nigerians, especially Lagosians should be wary of in 2015 and beyond. Lagosians do not deserve any young man who chooses to lead by precept rather than example. It is necessary at this juncture to give an adumbrated dissection of how this former poor ‘toddler’ lecturer (yes, he was a mister when he joined government) came into the political limelight of Lagos. He rode on the political influence of his mentor/godfather, Oba Hamzat, father of current Commissioner for Works in the state, to win Asiwaju’s confidence. In fact, Tinubu was reticent when Banire was recommended to him by Kabiyesi Hamzat who was using him as the caretaker (rent collector) for his estates and also to write minutes of meeting at political gatherings. That was how he gained inroad, first as special adviser and later as commissioner for transportation in the Tinubu administration before he was later nominated by Asiwaju into the BRF government in his first term. He ended by spending 12 years in government. All he achieved was through recommendations from godfathers and after some years, he sees himself as a stalwart in Mushin area where he became a ‘master of imposition’, relying largely, on his reviled Tinubu influence within the party. It is surprising to read the same Banire saying as the Lagos APC primaries approach: ‘There is a tendency of imposition on the people…So, I believe that it must not even be allowed to happen now, even if it had been happening in the past. It is not progressive.’ At what time did Banire realise that imposition was not progressive? May be at the point where he believes he has made so much money because we know that he was far from being comfortable before he joined government when he was a proud owner of a ramshackle automobile.

Whoever doubts Banire’s profile as a master of imposition should go to his constituency in Mushin. Seye Oladejo, former chairman of Mushin Local Government and now Special Adviser, Commerce and Industry was a victim of Banire’s highhandedness. But for Asiwaju’s good sense of judgement, the man would not today be in the BRF government. It was BRF that nominated him but Banire wrote a letter to Asiwaju, threatening to leave the party if Oladejo was given the slot. He does not even have simple courtesy for the governor. For goodness sake, how do we qualify what Banire wanted Tinubu to do for him then if not master imposition? Up till today, this deceitful chief campaigner against imposition in APC is a leading light in that direction since he still writes names of ‘who gets what’ without recourse to the people. Yet, he talks about popular candidates when he was not even popular when Kabiyesi Hamzat rescued him from hustling in life. Let us ask Banire if he is ready to henceforth follow due process himself. The other time when his ‘anointed candidate’ was not elected speaker of the House of Assembly, he threw decorum to the dogs because his bid to impose, as godfather himself, his will on the House failed. Also, he opposed Yemi Ali in Mushin Odi-Olowo but Tinubu stood his ground against his whims and caprices. This same man tried to smuggle at least four persons into BRF’s government without the governor’s consent. In the current ensuing Lagos governorship race, Banire says as ‘a national officer of the party, we are meant to be neutral,’ but his partisan neutrality knows who he does not want and that person according to him is the ‘so-called anointed candidate (Akinwunmi Ambode).’ What is the definition of this unjustifiable insolence? Banire is fast becoming a misguided element that lacks the moral suasion to be in the vanguard of fight against imposition. Was it not through imposition that he became the national legal adviser of ACN and now APC? All those queuing behind him in his current outbursts, known and unknown had been at one time or the other beneficiaries of imposition from Asiwaju and by extension, the progressives’ leadership. His act of venting his spleen on Ambode, smacks of undue pride from a man who has acquired and is still acquiring so much from Tinubu and the progressive platform that he unthinkably wants to destroy because of selfish political ambitions. Banire is a pious hypocrite posturing as virtuous. Anything that is not for him, in his warped view, is not democratic. He preaches the rule of law while his eyes are on the Lagos governorship that is far beyond his egotistic grip. Of course, yours sincerely knows that for people like him, there is always a hidden agenda. But he must realise one naked fact: The hypocrite is naturally doomed!

Honour for Olanipekun By Ayo Adesanmi thought, and ardent in learning. He exhibits a unique skill for presentation of arguments, a powerful delivery and a dazzling ability to carry the court along with him. He has a stunningly clear and analytical mind. He deconstructs cases with ease and backs them up with decided authorities without winking. He is indeed a courtroom General. To Chief Olanipekun, a good mastery of the English Language and knowledge of the law are the weapons needed by a lawyer for the successful prosecution of a client’s cause. In a paper he delivered at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma on September 17, this year in honour of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), he enthused thus: “A lawyer does not possess arsenals of war; no guns, bullets, cartridges, horses, arrows, tear gas, cutlasses, cudgels or any of the modern weapons of mass destruction which are always in custody of government, but which, nowadays are always within the reach of some people/ insurgents who use them effectively against government forces, as well as innocent citizens. All a lawyer possesses are his training, his skill, his law, his law Chambers which houses a well-stocked library, his good suits and oratory prowess.” The above more graphically captures the importance of Lord Justice Birkett’s, address entitled: “Law and Literature”, when he said:”Now, words in their proper order are the raw materials of the law, and words have a magic of their own; they have colour and sound, meaning and associations. But choice words in the right order have a magical power still”. Even when he loses a case, his client goes home satisfied that he could not have had a better lawyer. His advocacy, his Brief writ-

ing too is enchanting. Even his archrivals and adversaries always agree on one point: that Chief Olanipekun pays attention to minutest details. He has his way with words. He writes with so much tantalizing effect and he describes so graphically that a reader would have an imaginary pictures of the characters or would be so carried away with the flow of language and thought that he would not have a choice than to agree with his line of reasoning. That is why many Judges of High Courts and Justices of our appellate courts have praised his writing prowess and counselled lawyers to emulate his style of writing. His capacity for giving is unassailable, his penchant for philanthropic activities is aweinspiring and his proclivity for humanitarianism is unmistakable. His many scholarships and philanthropic gestures are matters of public knowledge. He can boast one of the most organised and consistent scholarship schemes in the country – the Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme which he established in 1996 to give scholarships to indigent students. Today, the scheme has produced several lawyers, doctors, engineers, pharmacists etc. In 2006, he built, equipped and donated an ICT Centre to Amoye Grammar School, Ikere Ekiti, his cradle; in 2012, he donated a Vicarage to his home church, the St. Peter’s Church, Ikere in honour of his late father, Mr. Isaac Olanipekun; in March, 2014, he donated a well-equipped 500-capacity modern Bar Centre to the NBA Branch in Ikere; in 2011, he initiated an endowment fund with which over 700 laptop-computers and flash drives were bought and distributed among young lawyers in Lagos; while 7 cars were bought and distributed among lawyers whom he never had contact with in Ilorin.

In 2012, when the University of Ibadan was ravaged by flood and billions of naira worth of properties were destroyed, he made a donation which was only second to the Federal Government’s; in that same year, he completed the 480-capacity Wole Olanipekun Law Auditorium for the Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan. The list is endless. For a man who has done so much for the law and the society, the award of Doctor of Law on him as being done today by the University of Ibadan is, to say the least, most apt. I commend the University of Ibadan Management for its effort to honour this outstanding Jurist, doyen of the Bar, quintessential, well-informed, much gifted and exceptionally brilliant Senior Advocate. He deserves all the accolades on this momentous occasion. May the Almighty God preserve him and take him to higher heights. • Adesanmi, writes from Lagos.

‘I commend the University of Ibadan Management for its effort to honour this outstanding Jurist, doyen of the Bar, quintessential, well-informed, much gifted and exceptionally brilliant Senior Advocate. He deserves all the accolades on this momentous occasion. May the Almighty God preserve him and take him to higher heights’

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net Stories by Taofik Salako

NLNG is one of the biggest success stories in our country. From what I am told, the company has invested $13 billion so far since inception, and has become a pacesetter in terms of revenue generation for the government. -Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga

Medview Airlines set for listing

Nigeria’s businesses competitive, says CWG chief

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

EDVIEW Airlines has said it has begun discussions with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as part of efforts to get the carrier listed. Its Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Muneer Bankole who spoke during a briefing to mark the two years anniversary of the carrier in Lagos, said the airline has started discussions with some foreign carriers in the Middle East on how to secure code share and other operational agreements ahead of its planned flight operations into Dubai and Jeddah. He said the airline, over the last two years has flown on the domestic route over 756, 437 passengers, as plans are underway to extend flights into Kano, Owerri, Calabar and Uyo as it increases its fleet size from four aircraft to six . He said the airline has also flown over 250, 000 Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in the past years. Bankole said the airline decided to go to the Exchange to make it the people’s airline. He said the carrier is favourably disposed to becoming the national carrier if approached by government. He endorsed the merger and consolidation of airlines proposed by industry experts affirming that it would enhance capacity and reduce operating costs if airlines put their resources together for optimal service. He said nothing is wrong with government setting up a national carrier, arguing that it would boost national pride and enable Nigeria recoup the huge money carted away annually by foreign carriers who do not add value to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP). Bankole said government should put stricter measures in place to checkmate the invasion of the aviation sector by foreign carriers, which enjoy multiple entry points into the Nigerian market. He said domestic operators were grappling with the challenge of multiple charges by aviation agencies. He canvassed reduction and harmonisation in the charges, which he said is one of the ways government could reduce the operating costs of airlines. He also urged government to intervene in the oscillating price of aviation fuel, which he said is a huge challenge facing many operators. He said the hurdles erected by some countries for Nigerian carriers seeking traffic rights and approvals into their country is huge, as operators are required by some countries to provide over half a million Saudi Arabian currency as bank guarantee, in addition to having a foreign operators certificate as pre-conditions for flights. He said such harsh conditions should apply to foreign carriers flying into Nigeria, which have eroded the market with flexible conditions. Bankole said at the rate government is granting multiple entry point for foreign carriers, domestic operators are being undermined, a development that could stall the growth of aviation sector in Nigeria.

By Lucas Ajanaku

•From left: Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Tony Okpanachi; General Manager, Loving Gaze, Barbara Pepoli and Executive Director, Corporate Banking, Foluke Aboderin during the donation of malaria testing kits and mosquito nets to Loving Gaze, a non-governmental organisation, as part of activities marking Ecobank Day 2014 in Lagos.

CBN extends data security compliance deadline

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has extended banks’, switches’ and processors’ compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) standard till November 30. The PCI DSS is a proprietary information security standard for organisations that handle cardholder information for the major debit, credit, prepaid, e-purse, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Point of Sale (PoS) cards. The standard was created to increase controls around cardholder data to reduce credit card fraud via its exposure. A circular to banks, switches and processors, endorsed by CBN Director,

By Collins Nweze

Banking Payment System, ‘Dipo Fatokun, said the need to extend the deadline followed requests by many banks seeking more time to enable them to complete the certification process. He said to determine the readiness of various operators, the CBN engaged the services of three Qualified Security Assessors (QSA) to conduct pre-certification assessment of the banks. The result, he said, showed that while many banks had complied with the certification, many are still at different stages of compliance. He said with this extension, banks, processors and switches are expected to com-

ply before the end of the deadline. The validation of PCI DSS compliance is performed yearly, either by an external QSA that creates a Report on Compliance (RoC) for organisations handling large volumes of transactions, or by Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) for companies handling smaller volumes. The CBN had earlier released card issuance and use guidelines for the financial services sector. Fatokun said the power to issue the guideline was derived from Section 47 (3) of the CBN Act 2007. He said industry stakeholders who process, transmit, and or store cardholder infor-

mation should ensure that that their terminals, applications and processing infrastructure comply with the minimum requirements for the sector. The CBN director said all terminals, applications and processing infrastructure should also comply with the standards specified by the various card schemes. Fatokun said only banks licensed by the CBN with clearing capacity shall issue payment cards to consumers and corporations in the country. He added that banks without clearing capacity can issue in conjunction with those with clearing capacity. Also, all banks should seek approval from the CBN for each card brand they wish to issue.

Huawei deploys WiFi to busiest stadium

HINESE tech giant, Huawei Technologies has deployed its highdensity WiFi solution the Borussia Dortmund Football Club after completing comprehensive comparisons and tests. The objective was to establish a wireless network in the club’s home stadium, Signal Iduna Park. With an average attendance of more than 80,500 people, the stadium is the busiest football club in the world. The club selected Huawei’s solution which provides highdensity user access and multiservice operation, enhancing the experience for fans at the stadium. According to the tech firm, the project encountered some challenges in relation to planning, high-density user access and differentiated services to fit the business model. The first challenge related to planning. Wireless data that is transmitted through electromagnetic waves can penetrate obstacles, be refracted or interfere with

one another. In order to map electromagnetic waves like network cables, Huawei engineers developed an automatic planning tool. The tool was successfully implemented to design a high-performance wireless network covering the stadium. The result was a flawless network design forming the basis for high network quality and successful network operations. “The second challenge was in relation to high-density user access. When large audiences share moments via mobile devices, a single access point must provide high-speed access for several hundred users. Lowperformance networks will break-down in these circumstances. The Huawei high-density stadium WiFi solution uses various control and scheduling technologies to address user access, service transmission, and roaming problems. By doing so, the network performance was improved by 30 per cent, enabling each access point (AP) to provide access for more

than 100 users. In addition, the network was created to be flexible, agile and capable of supporting future service growth,” the firm explained. The third challenge was in providing differentiated services to adapt to the new business model. Economic interests needed to be balanced with user experience, with basic network access Internet services provided for free. The Huawei high-density stadium Wi-Fi solution allowed the business model to be profitable by deeply integrating IT services with network services. This allowed the customer to maximise return on investment from new services on the wireless network. The Huawei high-density stadium Wi-Fi solution helps create smart stadiums with reliable, fast, innovative wireless networks. The rapidly developing mobile Internet connects users anywhere, anytime. According to Deloitte’s research on

customer behaviors in 2013, WiFi is now the most popular choice for wireless network access. The research report shows that 69 per cent of smartphone users use Wi-Fi to connect to the Internet at home, office, or school, more than 2G and 3G systems. In addition to private network usage, 43 per cent of smartphone users connect to the Internet using public Wi-Fi access. This surge in mobile internet access has also affected retail trends, with increasing numbers of shoppers now using their mobile devices to shop online. Users’ preferences for absorbing messages are also evolving, with around 55 per cent of users preferring mobile commercials to televisual or traditional Internet commercials. The mobile trend is set to grow according to InMobi, a mobile advertising company that predicts that mobile shopping will grow by more than 35 per cent in 2014.

HE founder and Chief Executive Officer, Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), Mr. Austin Okere, has said in spite of all the challenges, Nigeria’s businesses remain competitive. Addressing a group of graduate students in the Private Equity and Entrepreneurship in Africa Course with Professor Murray Low of the Eugene Lang Entrepreneurship Centre during the Entrepreneurs in Residence Week in New York, United States (U.S), he said Nigeria is one of the top three investors’ destinations in Africa. Okere, who is Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) at Columbia Business School, quoted figures from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), adding that of the $57billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) that Africa attracted last year, Nigeria got the lion share of about $5.6billion. He said this is remarkable given that only six other countries attracted investments above $3billion. He spoke against the backdrop of the country moving up five places in the latest release of the World Bank Doing Business Report. This, he averred, is well above the average improvement of two positions by Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey (MINT countries). More importantly, the “Starting a Business”and “Getting Credit” pillars saw the most significant changes, moving up nine and 73 places respectively, indicating better engagement with the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector, which tends to be the engine of growth in most developing economies. He urged his audience to explore other viable geographies, adding that his views aligns with the one expressed at the World Economic Forum Meeting of the Global Champions in Tianjin, China, that the new frontiers for business expansion following saturation in the developed markets were Africa and Latin America. He, however, cautioned against wholesale importation of western business model templates into these emerging markets given the different geographies, peoples and cultures. He urged local partnerships to explore the immense opportunities in a mutually beneficial manner. Okere said significant milestones have been achieved in areas such as broadband access, making it possible to pursue hitherto impossible business models in cloud computing and eCommerce. He said giant strides have been made in the reforms in power, agriculture, SME support and financial inclusion through Central Bank’s Cashless Initiative, leading to improved financial transparency; and the adoption of the International Reporting Standards (IFRS) accounting standard leading to greater corporate governance standards.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVE MBER 14, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS BRANDS & MARKETING

e-mail: adedejiademigbuji@yahoo.com /mobile line: 08131075667

There is no end to the battle between Consumer Protection Council and the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC)/ Coca Cola Company Nigeria over cases of half-filled bottles of Sprite and Fantas but stakeholders urge the regulator to dialogue rather than use combative means to enhance quality control, writes ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI.

CPC vs. NBC/CCNL: Probing the half-filled bottles T HE battle between the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and CocaCola Nigeria Limited and its Nigerian franchise, the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) over an alleged breach of the CPC Act, is yet to abate. The battle which ensued early in the year as a result of a product complaint investigation involving half-filled cans of Sprite, has snowballed into a legal battle. The council ordered the companies which manufacture Coke, Sprite, Fanta and Five Alive, among other numerous drink brands, to subject their manufacturing processes to the scrutiny of inspection for a period of 12 months, which did not go down well with the company. “The order requires Nigerian Bottling Company and Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited to: subject their manufacturing process to the council’s inspection for a period of 12 months to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations; formulate and make available to the Council a Shelf Life Policy within 90 days to facilitate the removal of expired products from the market; review within 90 days their grievance resolution policy to : address compensation for injuries, or compensation in instances where replacement will be inadequate; review their supply chain management policy within 90 days to include retailers in order to minimise the distribution,” the Director-General of the CPC, Mrs. Dupe Atoki, said. To show its seriousness, the Federal Government, a fortnight ago dragged the NBC Limited, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited and their Chief Executives before a Federal High Court in Abuja for alleged criminal breach of the CPC Act. But as the case is before court of competent jurisdiction, stakeholders are asking CPC to employ dialogue and collaboration as the means of settling such issue. They said globally, this approach has worked and as Nigeria is becoming a global market for global brands, regulatory authorities should change its approach from combative to collaborative. Presently, the Nigerian Employers Consultative Council (NECA) and the Association of Food, Beverages and Tobacco Employees (AFBTE) are part of the stakeholders working to ensure that the council drops charges against the indicted firms as the case in question, half-filled bottles, does not warrant such a legal tango and a fine of N100 million. “It is important in the national interest, that the CPC safeguards both consumer and industry interests through balanced regulation. After all, regulators exist because there is an industry to regulate and these industries are critical drivers of the economy that Nigerians are duty bound

•MD, Coca-Cola Adeola Adetunji

to contribute to building not pulling down!,” said a public affairs analyst, Sopuru Uwadiegwu. He said error do occur during production process and such is also an happenstance across the globe but it would be wrong for anyone to attempt to make a defence for Coca-Cola and NBC because there can be no justification for defective products. “It is equally wrong to deny that manufacturing error is a fact of life in every industry and every country, including the most advanced ones. What is important in such situation is to ensure that industry is not deliberately endangering consumers and society by condoning such errors,” he said. In what looked like a combative regulation, he said: “What is curious in the CPC vs Coca-Cola and NBC case is the whopping fine of N100 million for an offence that was described as ‘two half-filled cans

•Mrs Atoki

of Sprite’ and also the regulator’s apparent preference to fight the court case in the media,” he said. He stated that CPC should also be encouraged to balance consumer, industry and national interest via regulation. Meanwhile, the trial of the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Plc and Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited (CCNL) and their respective Managing Directors could not go on at the Federal High Court, Abuja last week Monday because the trial judge, Justice Evoh Chukwu, did not sit. He was said to be attending a conference somewhere. The case was adjourned till December 1. But industry observers believe that before then CPC and NBC with Coca-Cola should have met to find alternative way to end the dispute. In a joint statement signed by the Public Affairs & Communications Manager, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Mr. Clem

‘What is curious in the CPC vs Coca-Cola and NBC case is the whopping fine of N100 million for an offence that was described as ‘two half-filled cans of Sprite’ and also the regulator’s apparent preference to fight the court case in the media’

Ugorji and the Head, Public Affairs and Communications, Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (NBC), Adeyanju Olomola in respect of the CPC findings, the companies said: “Each organisation cooperated with the council in the course of the investigation and provided the information available to it in varying respects including but not limited to quality assurance, product handling and consumer complaints resolution processes which have been updated over the years. It is regrettable that the Council’s conclusions and recommendations do not appear to have acknowledged the information. “As responsible organisations, NBC and CCNL take all matters relating to products very seriously and remain committed to maintaining the highest international quality management and food safety standards and certifications. Because consumers are at the heart of everything we do, both organisations also take a responsive approach towards satisfying customers and consumers. Nigerian Bottling Company Limited and Coca Cola Nigeria Limited hold the council and indeed, all regulators and stakeholders in high esteem and will continue to work with them to make any necessary improvement.”

2015: CNN rejects political adverts from Nigeria

HE penchant of Nigerians for lavish publicity in foreign media has met a stonewall in CNN, which has been rejecting political advertisement. With the 2015 elections drawing close, several politicians are shocked that the American international cable channel, which is one of the favourites in Nigeria, has been turning down commercials with overt political messages. CNN adverts are among the most expensive in the world - the network charges up to N5m for a 30-second spot at prime time - but many Nigerian companies and poli-

ticians typically value the prestige above the economic cost. This has also created a bandwagon effect, with many falling over one another to get on the international media. It is estimated that Nigerian companies and various state governments spend billions of naira every year advertising in foreign media, notably The Economist, Financial Times of London, CNN International and Super Sports. “We approached CNN agents in Nigeria to place some adverts for our principal. We sent the creatives to them as requested

and they returned them, saying they do not run commercials that are intended to campaign for votes. We could not believe it,” a consultant to a presidential aspirant said. Another, who is working for a state governor seeking re-election, said he had a similar experience. But an official of CNN said that it was a general rule not to accept certain advertisements and there was no discrimination against Nigerian politicians. Ashley Hogan-Gancarz, the account manager of CNN International, told The

Cable that: “CNN International never accept political or religious advertising. This is due to Ofcom regulations. “If you want to promote investment opportunities, etc. that would be fine but nothing to do with politics or the 2015 election.” Ofcom is the regulator of the broadcast industry in the UK, from where CNN International oversees its African operations. CNN’s rejection of 2015-related adverts is expected to benefit local media in Nigeria. Part of the advertising budget is now expected to be spent locally.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

Brandnews

Content marketing: NBC to deepen Nollywood market penetration A

S the Nigerian film industry assume a status of international brand, competing with the likes of Hollywood and Bollywood, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is planning a strategic way of ensuring that the industry’s awareness creation is expanded across the globe. In the last 20 years, Nollywood has garnered a sizeable market share and indirectly becoming a platform to launder Nigeria image, which perhaps is the reason President Goodluck Jonathan gave a N3 billion grant to boost the industry. With a production capacity of over 200 home videos monthly, the NBC is looking for a better platform to market the industry content and deepen its market penetration. To achieve this, the Director General of the NBC, Mr. Emeka Mba during a stakeholder, meeting in Lagos, expressed the commission’s readiness to work with MIPCOM, global TV and entertainment market to enable people co-produce, buy, sell, finance and distribute entertainment

Stories by Adedeji Ademigbuji

content. MIPCOM provides the people involved in the TV, film, digital and audiovisual content production and distribution industry a market and networking forum to discover future trends and trade content rights on a global level,” he said. Mba who emphasised the importance of Nigeria being part of MIPCOM and hosting Africastwhich was held between October 21 and 23 in Abuja- said every stakeholder must take advantage of the opportunities that come with digitisation even as the transition date to digital broadcasting gets closer. According to him, Nigeria could better monetize its content production and be the audio-visual hub of the continent, as there is no other African country with a better potential.

The NBC, he said, really wants to reposition Africast as a reference point for the best of equipment and a destination for content every year, so that producers can find a market for their works. “I believe that Nigeria is the hub of creative industry in Africa, what is missing is how to make money from it.” He enjoined practitioners to be open-minded, as it will change the way business is done in the sector. Mba stated that Africast 2014 is coming at a crucial time for the broadcast industry as the country switches over from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting and works towards the grant of content provider and signal distributor licences. “We need to work together to realise the vision and a more dynamic industry. The idea of having the Nigeria stand at the Cannes Film Festival is critical because we need to join

the global discussion and learn how these things are done professionally besides having the connection. We do have a vision about what the future of television in Nigeria should be but that can only be achieved through collective efforts and not by NBC alone,” Mba stated. He said that the future is digital, he amplified the need for content in the process, giving this as the reason the NBC fashioned certain policies to promote better content. He observed also that content has ecologically changed the broadcast industry. According to him, though the country has started the adventure with Africast, there is a need to take it higher by also focusing on the business of creating content. For him, this is why Nigeria’s participation at MIPCOM is important because being the biggest market for content, stakeholders in the

content creation sector in Nigeria need to get close and be part of MIPCOM. With the target date of January 1, 2015 of digitisation, the NBC boss maintained that content will play a crucial, driving role in the success of a digital broadcasting environment as indicated by the theme: Digital Broadcasting Content: Production, Sourcing and Delivery. “Leveraging on the past success of Africast, we are planning a bigger and better Africast 2014. It promises to be a must attend event as broadcasting industry leaders from across the globe will be converging in Abuja to cross-pollinate ideas and explore the opportunities for the success of digitization. “The positive response and feedback from all our past editions of Africast has inspired us to make Africast 2014 bigger and more successful. With Africa trailing the rest of the world in digitization process, there needs to be acceleration in the process for Africa to attain digital singularity with other advanced countries.

Chi signs sponsorship deal with Man U

HE management of Chi Limited has signed a multi year sponsorship deal with Manchester United at a colourful ceremony, held at the prestigious Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester, United Kingdom. The deal will allow the fruit juices brand to use the legendary Manchester United crest, club imagery, players and other intellectual property on a range of products throughout Nigeria. The event was attended by leading players of the club like Angel Di Maria, Robin Van Persie, Valencia, Anders Lindegaard, among others. Founded over 30 years ago, Chi prides itself as being Nigeria’s premier producer of healthy, high quality, fruit and dairy based drinks which are enjoyed by millions of customers every year. With mega brands like Chivita 100 per cent, Chivita Active, Chi Exotic, Chi Happy Hour, Chi Ice Tea, Capri-Sonne, Hollandia Yoghurt and Hollandia Evaporated Milk occupying leading positions in their respective segments, Chi Limited has successfully ensured market dominance in Nigeria over the years through its successful marketing and brand building strategies. With this partnership Chi’s flagship brand, Chivita 100 per cent fruit juice will become the preferred soft drink of Manchester United in Nigeria. While signing the agreement at Old Trafford, Chi Limited’s Head of Marketing, Probal Bhattacharya said: “As the flagship brand of Chi Ltd, Chivita 100 per cent will feature as the fruit juice of choice for the Manchester United team”. Describing the

partnership as between two of the most cherished brands in Nigeria, he said: “As a company, we are proud to partner with such a reputed and successful club like Manchester United whose tradition of excellence is in tandem with ours. “We are confident that the partnership will further deepen consumer loyalty as well as ensure that millions of passionate soccer fans across Nigeria continue to refresh and rejuvenate themselves with Chivita 100 per cent fruit juice and Chi’s other beverage offerings as they relish every moment of the beautiful game. Manchester United’s Managing Director, Richard Arnold said: “We are delighted to have Chi Limited as an official partner of Manchester United. With over 30 years of experience, Chi has a commitment to the health and well-being of Nigerians as well as producing high quality, market leading products. With over 35 million followers, Nigeria is home to some of the Club’s most passionate fans, and this partnership will help bring these fans closer to the Club they love.” Manchester United players Robin Van Persie, Angel Di Maria, Valencia and Anders Lindegaard took time afterwards to savour the fruit juice. Robin Van Persie commended the management of Chi limited for its refreshing taste. He stated that as an athlete, he requires healthy fruit juices like Chivita 100 per cent for optimum performance. Angel di Maria equally stressed the freshness and health benefit of 100 per cent juices like Chivita 100 per cent.

‘With this partnership Chi’s flagship brand, Chivita 100 per cent fruit juice will become the preferred soft drink of Manchester United in Nigeria’

•From left: Managing Director, Multichoice John Ugbe; Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Emeka Mba and a producer Makin Soyinka at the event.

Martell Caractère enters Nigeria market

GLOBAL cognac brand, Martell Caractere, has been launched in Nigeria, making it the second globally after it was first launched in US recently. The launch of the new blend in Nigeria is part of Martell’s commitment to innovation and leadership in the cognac space. The new blend, offers style, elegance, complexity and balance for the true man of character, and pays tribute to the spirit of legendary entrepreneur and Martell founder, Jean Martell. Launched at the grand ball room, Oriental Hotel Lagos, amidst glamour and style, Managing Director, Pernod Ricard Ni-

geria, Mr. Oliver Fages said the introduction of ‘Martell Caractère’ into the Nigerian market is in line with the global drive to position the brand uniquely in the minds of its consumers. According to Fages, Martell will be celebrating its tricentennial anniversary. 300 years of producing number 1 ultra-premium cognac and Martell Caractère is rooted in this history. Utilising the 300year-old Martell Method, a unique distillation process passed down from Jean Martell himself. “It is created using grapes sourced from Martell’s own vineyards in the Domaine Jean Martell, distilled twice without

lees and aged in fine grain French oak barrels. The blend has a generous character and subtle fruity notes. Martell Caractère has style, elegance, tenacity, and that touch of class that is special to Martell. Beyond the boldness of its flavour, this cognac is dedicated to true “men of character”, authentic, refined and confident in every dimension in life,” Fages said. The Marketing Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Mr. Sola Oke said the launch of ‘Martell Caractère’ to the Nigerian market shows the desire of the company to continually satisfy its esteemed consumers

CSR: Cap Plc empowers unemployed youths

HEMICAL and Allied Products (CAP) Plc., a subsidiary of UAC of Nigeria Plc. (UACN), has empowered some unemployed youths by providing them with skills to become professional painters. The Dulux Painters Academy initiative, a six-week intensive painting apprenticeship, which was held in Lagos recently, was spe-

cially designed by the company to empower young people as highly skilled professional painters. The training covered areas such as Paint Application, Quantification, Colour Psychology, Common Paint Problems and Solutions, Professional Ethics as well as Site–Attachment with already established professional painters The Managing Director, Chemi-

cal and Allied Products, Mrs. Omolara Elemide, who was represented at the occasion by the Finance Director, Mrs. Adeline Ogunfidodo, described the Dulux Painters Academy as a high quality apprenticeship programme targeted at Secondary School Certificate holders and facilitated by experienced resource persons and professional painters.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS

E-mail: toniaitose@gmail.com

Sms : 07035302326

SHOPPING

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

As the Lagos international Trade Fair gradually winds up on Sunday, TONIA ‘DIYAN in this report captures the highpoint and low moments of the week-long event.

T is no longer news that human and vehicular traffic is, as usual, at its peak at the ongoing Lagos International Trade Fair. But the news is that among shoppers, the growing concern this year is that items which usually sell at rockbottom prices are not just expensive but have been priced away from the reach of the common man - quite uncharacteristic of a fair. The foregoing narrative is what characterised the Lagos International Trade Fair, which began a fortnight ago with the theme: ‘Promoting the Nigerian economy as a preferred investment destination.’ As it has been over the years, the atmosphere at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Lagos Island, venue of the Fair, thronged with busy shoppers and exhibitors, either striking good bargains or showcasing their wares. The unusual human and vehicular traffic from the entrance readily announced the Fair. From Tafawa Balewa Square bus terminal and farther down to Broad Street, on Lagos Island, cars literally formed a crisscross on the roads and kerbs, just as the unfriendly car park and gate fee of N1, 500 and N2, 000 respectively caused serious arguments at the entrance with shoppers anxious to get in. Perhaps, the anticipation that the Fair would attract about 500,000 visitors from within and outside the country since Nigeria is seen as a viable market because of its vast population appeared to be a reality when The Nation shopping visited the Fair. There was noticeable presence of exhibitors from Kenya, Japan, China and other foreign nationals. Chairman, Trade Promotion Board, who is also the Vice-President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, expressed assurance that the event would ensure a better business environment for Lagos in particular and Nigeria as a whole. While praising corporate organisations that had extended their support for the hosting of this year’s trade fair, he also assured all and sundry that the ambassadors and corporate organisations would team up with the chamber to promote Nigeria as the preferred investment destination. The main objectives of the fair include the revitalisation and diversification of the Nigerian economy as well as Nigeria’s non-oil exports. It also seeks to accelerate the development of commerce and industry while promoting made-inNigeria products, agriculture and agrobased industry. On the other hand, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry described the fair as a veritable tourist centre for all, saying, it will boost the nation’s economy. LCCI said this idea is gradually puncturing the country’s lingering problem of unemployment among youths, apart from the fact that it is growing the economy. The Fair stocks all kinds of products and services. From edibles to household items, toiletries, clothing, financial houses, electrical appliances, fashion and hair accessories, health products and what have you. Companies offering good shopping experiences in sundry items include: Multichoice, Lo’lavita hair, Whispering Palms, Organo- sells herbal items made with Ganoderma Lucidum, Tyre Armour, Bliss- an outfit that sells women artificial hair, Tropical naturals and Trevo. Others include: Panasonic, CFAO motors, Isuzu, Suzuki, Toyota Nigeria Limited, Ajinomoto, Koncept Autocentre Limited, etc. Besides, foreigners from different countries also had their stands. Some of the products on display were cars, electronics, household appliances, furniture, arts and crafts, clothing, babies’ wears and accessories, fabrics, generators, inverters, solar lights among other nondescript items. Sharing his experience with The Nation Shopping, Stanley Agbator, a shopper, said

•2014 Lagos Trade Fair

International

Good, ugly faces of Lagos International Trade Fair before he got to the arena the day he visited the fair, he was ushered in by people showcasing different products and he said to himself that if you are not patient enough to get to the main pavilion, you might end up outside as many sellers would pester you to buy their products. But those outside are nothing compared to the huge exhibition of goods inside. “Perhaps the only item you won’t find on sale at the ongoing Lagos International Trade fair is a human being. No doubts, it’s an ideal place for shoppers to prepare for the festivities. Everything seems to be on display and both human and vehicular traffic cannot be overemphasised, but the challenge of buying at twice or sometimes three times a regular price of an item is a great concern to the shopper,” said Tunde Olawale, somewhat jocularly. But while narrating her experience at the fair, a first-time shopper, who simply gave her name as Angela was emphatic about the poor showing of the fair in a snappy encounter with The Nation Shopping. Wiping sweat from her brow as she packed her purchased items into her waiting car in preparation for a journey to only God knows where, her countenance was obviously one of disappointment as she cursed the organisers under her breathe while finding her way out of the sprawling Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Lagos Island, venue of the exhibition. “This Fair is just hype. In fact, I regret com-

ing here at all. If this is how fairs are, I would be the last person to come here. From what I have seen here, all the media hype about the fair were empty promises,” said Angela, as she zoomed off in her car, happy to keep a distance between her and the venue. Unlike Angela, who probably didn’t get her money’s worth, to another shopper, who simply gave his name as Mr. Bankole, a teacher, “This is more of a tourist centre than a typical fair. From my observations, it lacks the sales promotion characteristic of an exhibition which I think is the most important to the masses, I mean the end-users,” he said. Bankole, however, suggested that exhibitors at the Fair should imbibe the sales promotion strategy and do less of massive stageset and presentation of their products. According to him, sales promotions include; free gifts, discounted prices, joint promotions, free samples, free vouchers, competitions and prize draws, as well as finance deals. No doubt, both Angela and Bankole are right with their observations and views. Right from the two gates leading to the straddling construction, legs and cars competed for space and the first two stalls visited by our reporter, showed that items are indeed more expensive than they are in the regular market. Like every other year, lively atmosphere; people in their multitude, inviting lightings, colourful costumes, music, dances and all

‘The main objectives of the fair include the revitalisation and diversification of the Nigerian economy as well as Nigeria’s non-oil exports. It also seeks to accelerate the development of commerce and industry while promoting made-in-Nigeria products, agriculture and agro-based industry’

kinds of entertainment are attributes easily ascribed to the yearly Lagos International trade fair. This year, the case was not different as concerted efforts at enticing prospective shoppers, was accentuated by music and other forms of entertainment. A stroll through either of the two entrances leading into the fair and a standby parking kiosk brings a shopper to the pavilion and tent in the structure’s belly. Besides security agents, managers of the commodious car park were on hand for serious business. “You can pay N1, 500 for the ten days the Fair will hold,” one of them told The Nation Shopping. From the exterior of the imposing setting, various sizes of signposts welcome prospective customers into both the fair and its compartments. Strategically placed within the neat premises were mascots and large speakers for music. It is a sight to behold as many visited for genuine shopping, some others stood transfixed to behold the delight. However, while many window-shopped, others were busy with genuine transactions with impressive attention from polite sales persons of various companies and brands. Parading neatly dressed, sprightly-looking attendants, all the exhibitors transacting business there appeared to have keyed into the seemingly inviolate culture of cleanliness. Shoppers need not burden themselves with loads of cash from their homes as banks made available functioning ATM services within the fair. Asked from a sales representative of a beauty company why one should patronise their shop rather than elsewhere, she said: “Our products are affordable to the commoner. If you buy anything from us, and it does not suit your taste, maybe by reason of colour or texture, so far it is •Continued on page 37

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AN EIGHT-PAGE PULLOUT ON THE SOUTHSOUTH STATES

•Amaechi

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

PAGE 29

UBIMA ’S RIDDLE UBIMA’S

CR OSS RIVER CROSS

GOODL UCK GOODLUCK

Those who saw and heard of the mysterious event at Ubima, hometown of Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, describe it differently: some say it is amazing; others say it is mysterious and unbelievable. It is all about the 'rising' of a sacred tree that was felled by windstorm in the community. •PAGE 34

Cross River State Security Adviser Mr Rekpene Bassey says the Liyel Imoke-led administration has made the state the safest in the country. How was it able to achieve this? What has it cost to get to where it is? He speaks on this and more.

BETWEEN March and April last year, some people were seen on the streets of Benin City doing community service. These persons were the 5000 employed under the Community Service and Youth Empowerment Projects, one of the components of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P). Where are they now? •PAGE 32

•PAGE 33 •Oshiomhole

•Bassey

Curse of black gold Almost three years after a gas explosion and fire outbreak devastated Koluama clan, comprising of three oilproducing communities in Bayelsa State, the people still suffer the effects of the tragedy hoping that President Goodluck Jonathan will keep his words to them, writes MIKE ODIEGWU, Yenagoa

• Fire fighters trying to put out an oil rig fire

T is morning. Bright and beautiful but the traditional rulers of Koluama Clan, King S.E. Edi-Mangi; Koluama 1, JTC Leghemo and Koluama ll, N.E. Ogboinbiri-Mienye, have no light in their eyes. They are supposed to be happy ruling over a prosperous clan. But like their people, they are not happy. At times, they even feel lost and hopeless. It will be three years next January 16 since a gas explosion and fire outbreak from the gas drilling rig, K.S.

Endevour, owned by Chevron Nigeria Limited caused earth tremors and vibrations in the communities. “Several houses in the communities suffered cracks in their walls and foundations in their walls and foundations,” Mangi said. National Coalition on Gas Flaring and Oil Spills in the Niger Delta (NACGOND), a coalition of environmental experts recently visited Koluama after being inundated by the complaints of people from the area. The team came back weep-

ing and wailing like Bob Marley and the Wailers over the untold hardship of Koluama and other impacted communities. The National Coordinator, NACGOND, Dr. Edward Obi, said: “All we hear is a tale of woes. The people have lost their livelihood almost entirely. They can no longer fish or expect anything near their previous yields. The fish have either died or migrated to other safer regions of the sea.” • CONTINUED ON PAGES 30 & 35

• Koluama 2012...The burning rig

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THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT COVER

•Continued from page 29

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

Curse gold Curse of black black gold

N the place of the fish are strange weeds that are alien to that area. These weeds also hamper fishing activities. Sea levels have also risen dramatically and local residents are attributing this to the events of January 2012. The Federal Government and Chevron have reneged on promises they made during their visits. The palliatives promised by the President have also not materialised. The N120million given by Chevron in so-called ex-gratia gesture was not meant to replace a proper and formal assessment of damage and compensation to be paid to communities and individuals.

•Jonathan

Koluama threatened by ocean surge Obviously, all is not well with Koluama. The water level has risen. Indeed, a surge from the Atlantic Ocean is threatening to swallow the Koluama communities. The tidal current of the sea rose, overflew its bank and emptied into the Koluama River. Residents of the communities located along the banks of Koluama River are exposed to the direct attack of waves and tidal currents from the sea. Panic-stricken traditional rulers of the communities and other indigenes of Koluama are panic-stricken. Recently, some of the traditional rulers raised the alarm over the threats by the sea to wash away the communities. The waters are waiting for restoration. Aquatic lives are mourning their dead ones and the entire environment, offshore, onshore Koluama are dying in patience. The people now wallow in abject poverty having lost their means of livelihood to that January 16, 2012 explosion and blow-out at Chevron’s North Apoi oil/gas rig. The event of the early hours of January 16, 2012 reversed the fortunes and depleted the commonwealth of Koluama, a community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. It was not just Koluama, other communities of Eneni, Fishtown, Foropah, Ezetu 1&2, Sangana commonly called the KEFFES, including the Atlantic Ocean, Nigerian common heritage, were harmfully impacted by that unforgettable incident. On that fateful day, Chevron’s oil/ gas rig exploded and caused great tremor in the ocean. The explosion reverberated and shook the foundations of buildings in communities located many kilometres away. It, indeed, rocked the earth. The explosion, then ignited a ring of fire said to be 50 metres in diameter and rose to about 150 metres in height. The fire consumed the entire S.K Endeavour rig, comparable to the size of three football fields. It was immediately confirmed that the incident claimed the lives one French and one Indian nationals and compelled Chevron to evacuate 152 people. The fire raged for over 40 days before it was eventually put out.

Crisis management Many experts believe that the Koluama oil/gas spill incident could only be compared to the Bonga oil spill that occurred at the Gulf of Mexico. Some even insist that it was greater than the Bonga incident. But while the Bonga incident was responsibly managed by both the government and the indicted oil company, the Koluama incident has revealed the irresponsibility and impunity of both the government and many oil firms operating in the country. For instance, when the incident

•Dickson •Environmentalists taking samples of polluted water in Koluama

happened, civil society groups like the Environmental Right Action (ERA), National Coalition on Gas Flaring and Oil Spills in the Niger Delta (NACGOND) and other environmental experts rushed to the scene. But it took over a month for the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke, who hails from Bayelsa State to visit the site of the incident. Also, it took President Goodluck Jonathan about two months to visit Koluama. The management of Chevron refused to visit the site until the time the minister belatedly went to the area.

Basket of failed Promises Among the early callers at Koluama shortly after the incident was the former acting Governor of the state, Mr. Nestor Binabo. He read the riot act to oil multinationals, including Chevron, the culprit. He threatened legal action against the company amidst applauses by chiefs and youths in the communities. But Binabo could not fulfill his promises because of his brief stay in office. Then came Mrs. Allison-Madueke, and her entourage. She came on a chopper and hovered around the burning rig. Eventually, she met with the people. In fact, her visit did not make any positive impact on the affected communities. The deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral John Jonah (retd) went to Koluama on behalf of his boss. He toured the affected areas on a speedboat to assess the damage done by the explosion. Decrying the level of environmental pollution suffered by the communities, Jonah said: “It is nostalgic, especially when one sees the fishing settlements. They remain the same as they used to be in those days, as nothing seems to have changed. However, one thing that has changed is that

the environment has suffered and is still suffering much pollution. “In those days the environment was not polluted and we had things as natural as they were created. And this is where we are concerned, because the environment is dying slowly at our expense. And we need to do something about it.” He insisted that oil companies should apply the same standards obtainable in Mexico and their home countries to Nigeria. He lamented that the pollution was capable of leading to slow death among the residents, and promised that the government would respond to all the issues after proper investigations. “One thing is clear, and that is the fact that the same laws that govern the oil industry in the home countries of oil companies apply here; it cannot be different. So, if what we are experiencing now is wrong in America where Chevron comes from, it is wrong here too. This should be the standard and we should not expect anything less,” Jonah said. Also, the Bayelsa State House of Assembly passed a two-point resolution imploring the Federal Government and Chevron to urgently send relief materials and medical team to all the communities affected by the incident. They further asked Chevron to pay adequate compensation to all the affected communities. They regretted that nothing significant had been done to alleviate the suffering of the people. The lawmakers regretted that due to hunger, the neglected people were forced to eat contaminated fish. They condemned the activities of oil multinationals operating in the state, regretting that the law had debarred state assemblies from legislating on such matters. But the most expected visitor, Jonathan, went to Koluama on February 27, 2012 – about two months

after the incident. The people were angry that it took the President, their kinsman, a long time to visit them. But they were still happy as they believed that Jonathan’s coming would restore their losses. The President gave them his words. He assured them of his readiness to address the environmental problems caused by the explosion. He directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to distribute relief materials to all the communities affected by the explosion. Jonathan asked that Chevron should pay compensation to the affected communities, adding that such compensation would be determined by the outcome of investigations to be carried out on the damage done by the explosion. He directed Mrs Allison-Madueke to liaise with Chevron on the issue of employment for the indigenes of the affected communities. It was, indeed, a basket of promises. On March 6, 2012, a chopper carrying the Presidential Adviser on Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, landed on the Koluama island. Kuku claimed to have come on the orders of Jonathan. He described the explosion as the worst in the history of hazards in oil and gas industry. Kuku decried the attitude of oil companies in the region and said he was directed by Jonathan to commence skill acquisition programme for youths and women of the impacted communities. He confirmed that the spill had polluted the source of drinking water in the communities, observing that the people of the area had been denied their means of livelihood. He faulted the initial claims by Chevron that the emitting gas was not hazardous and asked the company to take responsibility for the incident instead of making excuses. “When I heard about the gas well blowout and the usual complaint of

oil multinationals, I was very bitter. It is a sophisticated gas explosion that is the worst in the history of hazards in oil and gas in the entire world. “I have gone round the entire environment before I landed and I have seen how the rivers were all gone. I have seen that you can no longer drink from the water. “You can no longer swim in the river. I saw very thick level of spillage in the entire river. The explosion is hazardous to the community and the entirety of Ijaw land and it must be treated the same way. “Chevron and the Federal Government must treat this as a hazard to humanity. We must share the burden of dealing with the issues. Chevron must take its responsibility and the Federal Government must take its responsibility,” Kuku said. Reading Mr. President’s message to the community, Kuku said Jonathan had “directed his office to visit the eight impacted communities, explore opportunities of training and manpower development for the people.” The grand conspiracy and Jonathan’s question Curiously, all the August visitors to Koluama spoke in one voice. They agreed on the high level of devastation caused by the incident. They called for adequate compensation and ordered Chevron to remediate the environment. But about three years after the incident, nothing has been done by the leaders to redeem their promises. All the institutions of government are keeping sealed lips over the matter. It is as if Koluama never existed and the incident never happened.

Koluama woes continue The state Representative of the Environmental Rights Action (ERA), Mr. Alagoa Morris, said his investigations showed that the petroleum products that were emptied into the

sea and waterways from the exploded rig wreaked immediate havoc. Evidence abound to show that whales, fish and other aquatic animals died and floated in the water after the incident. The water was polluted with oil residues and dead varieties of fish which were later found by the locals were contaminated. They could not be eaten. Other aquatic lives ran as far as their wings could carry them to areas beyond the reach of the fishermen. The water was empty. Curiously, when the people whose occupation is manly fishing thrust their nets, they could only catch strange weeds. The weeds from the bottom of the sea encircled the fishing nets and damaged them at last. Alagoa noted that strange odious chemical, which is thicker than oil, was released into the waterways from the oil rig. He said: “During the cause of ERA/ FoEN’s investigations on 18th January and 23rd January, 2012, I saw with my eyes how dead fishes, big and small were floating in great numbers on the highly polluted water off-Koluama. The surface of the water was covered with very thick substance [chemical] that displayed several colours, even like lead in some places and appeared like different coloured carpet drawings. “Some of the fishes were noticed struggled to stay alive; in throes of death. We took some into the speedboat. Samples of the chemical on the water were also collected and we took it to our office and still have them till date. We observed that the chemical in question is heavier than crude oil; from the way it behaves where we still have it stored. “Although the chemical come and settle on the surface of the bottle [on top of the water], with the slightest shake; it begins to move down on its own; showing heaviness. This is a direct contrast from crude oil on water.

“With this characteristic feature of the chemical, one can deduce that; with the turbulent nature of the Sea current; this chemical is still being tossed back and forth in the environment and hence, continue to impact the environment negatively; especially aquatic lives. Besides, the stench from the chemical is very offensive; far worse than crude oil”, he said. He said every reasonable person had expected Chevron and the government to do two things. One of them according to him is to ensure proper study of the spread of the pollutant and carry out effective clean-up. Secondly, he said those impacted in all the communities; not just limited to KEFFES communities, should be compensated for general and specific damages or losses. He said compensation should take into consideration all the months and years of making the fisher folks remain idle as a result of the destruction in the environment occasioned by the multiple explosions and toxic chemicals. He lamented that the strange weeds the people now catch in their fishing nets as fish, are emitting very offensive odour. Morris said: “Unless this is done and urgently because the government and Chevron are already failed, the scenario would only be adding to the negative trends and sailing injustice in the Nigerian oil industry; supported by government. “We are urging Chevron to commence moves to clean-up the impacted environment and pay adequate compensation to all individuals and communities impacted by the 16th January, 2012 incident. We do not need any scientific proof; we see and captured some of the impacts on marine lives: Crayfish, fishes of different sizes; including Dolphins and Whales died as a direct result of that incident. “Follow-up investigations have

also revealed that the people who once depended on the Seas are no more making ends meet due to lack of fish in the impacted environment; even the few caught are still producing the smell of strange chemicals. “Since the protection of lives and property and happiness of the people is the responsibility of all legitimate governments; if the federal and state government continue to do nothing to ensure the protection of communities from environmental terrorists like is currently shown on this matter and, also fail to secure the happiness of our people; then it would amount to irresponsibility on the part of government. “Such governments, so failing; also should lack the moral and legal justification to continue receiving revenue from resources gotten from the environment of the victims of environmental terrorism. Just as BP was not allowed to escape justice and was made to promptly deposit huge sums of money even before the fire was extinguished; the Nigerian government should rise to the occasion in defense of her citizens. Anything less is not acceptable”. Morris echoed the disappointment of many people. “What has elicited some semblance of surprise is the obvious fact that this is still sailing when, after so much struggle; a Niger Deltan is the chief occupant of the seat of political power in the country as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”. Obi said NACGOND’s interest in the matter was borne out f its concern for the environment and livelihood of ordinary Nigerians who live in areas when oil companies operate. “When their lives are impaired on account of the oil industry, NACGOND finds common cause with them. This s why we are sending a clear message to Chevron that they cannot run from accountability for their environmental crimes in the Niger Delta. “We wish to put them on notice that NACGOND will not look away on the matter of their explosion at North Akpoi. We urge them to engage transparently with these communities and constitute structures that will deliver justice to the affected communities, if for nothing else, at least to make good the bad impression that people have of them as an insensitive, elusive and untruthful organisation”, he said. NACGOND made special entreaties to Governor Seriake Dickson. Obi reminded Dickson of his initial passion for justice when the incident occurred. “We call on Governor Dickson to reignite his initial passion and vigilance against what he called ‘Environmental Terrorism’ on that occasion and make good his promise to set up a technical committee to get to the root of this matter and to properly assess the impacts of this incident on our very vital environment and fragile ecology in the immediate, mediums and long term. “We call on the minister of the Petroleum Resources to immediately revisit and activate regulatory machinery to coerce Chevron to attend to the matters arising from these communities for the sake of peace. For those who live in fragile ecosystems, like the communities along the coastline where Chevron operates,their environment is in fact their life,” he said.

Will tomorrow be better? Life is difficult for the people of the impacted communities. The breadwinners are mourning their lost ground, as they now find it difficult to feed their dependants. They only roam the rivers and return in the evening sometimes with poisoned fish. No wonder Edi-Mangi, Leghemo and Ogboinbiri-Mienye have found it difficult to smile these days and they are likely to remain in bad mood until all the promises made to the communities impacted by the Chevron rig explosion are fulfilled.

ONELGA communities tackle AGIP over vandalism From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

ACH community’s spokesman opened catalogues of woes, neglect, devastation, poverty, suffering, sickness, in their communities following spillages from oil theft and leaky, expired oil pipes in their land. It was at a workshop organised by the National Oil Spill Detection Agency (NOSDRA) for the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) and its host communities of Aggah, Obirikom, Okwuzi and Mgbede, in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State. The workshop entitled: “Accessibility/availability of NOSDRA in addressing rising environmental concern in Oil and Gas production communities in the Niger Delta”, was meant to sensitise the communities on the presence of NOSDRA in the state, its roles and mandate as mediator on issues of dispute ar The federal and River state governments’ environmental regulatory agencies such as the NESREA, NNPC (DPR), as well as State Ministry of Energy and Environment were represented at the event. The communities lamented oil spill which has impacted on their health and environment. The Paramount Ruler of Aggah community, Eze-Ali Ignatius Ekezie, observed that ONELGA youths were neglected in the amnesty deal of the Federal Government because they were peaceful. He queried the rationale of not including non-violent youths of his area in the programme while rewarding “militants who destroyed Agip facilities, tapped oil and did so many atrocities. “More than 1,000 have been sent out and trained on different skills from the militant groups but nobody remembered the non-violent ONELGA people. If those that are peaceful were not also empowered, what is the encouragement? “By what the Federal Government has done, the way then to go is to be violent, destroy things so that you will be recognized, that is what it means, but the good people of ONELGA will continue to be peaceful. “We as ONELGA indigenes we are not saying these to attract sympathy from anywhere, but just to do the needful. We don’t even have hope on the process this NGO (GASIN), and NOSDRA is taking to protect the environment, help the helpless oil processing victims, because they may have a hitch on the process that can crumble the entire efforts. “God has not made any mistake in putting the resources there. My family has six oil wells that have been producing since 1955, as I speak, most of the people around me are living in thatch houses, and we are producing oil. “I get more saddened this time whenever I watch television and see robust people all over, with their dropping jaws, people getting fat on the resources from my father’s land while my people are impoverished, I get enraged, then the oil becomes a doom in ONELGA, especially Egbema.” He grieved. Tensioned heightened at the hall when AGIP, which is at the centre of the controversy, came late to the meeting. NOSDRA Port Harcourt boss, Cyrus Nkangwung barely hid his disappointment, although he apologised on the company’s behalf. Eze –Ali Ekezie, a Septuagenarian was visibly angry at NAOC. He said, “The NNPC and their DPR, the state Ministry of Environment, NESREA are all here today, why not go and drag NAOC out to this hall because they are your workers, now that they are not here and nothing was done to them, call this meeting again tomorrow they will still not come. “Last year I came to understand that even in the MOU given to us, NDDC takes 3 per cent of that MOU money which sometimes is huge sum. That of 2 years ago was N800 million that was given to NDDC, to do what?” he raged. Eze Aggah continued: “Do you know there is no NDDC or government (both Federal and State), presence in my Aggah community there? We built our three Primary Schools and Secondary Schools by ourselves. We will soon refuse NNPC from taking our oil, and we will be prepared to die inside those oil wells. We are arranging the oil sharing formula of regions.” The chairman of GASIN, Rev. Father Edward Obi, said the NGO is out to set up a platform for meaningful discussions between host communities and the operators, adding that that was what necessitated the invitation of the government, communities and the operator (NAOC) to the meeting. He said dialogue was veritable key to addressing all issues of conflict and disagreement, between persons, but regretted that NAOC was not represented. “The way we planned it was to have a tripartite engagement between the government, communities and the operator. We as civil society are only facilitators encouraging discussions to take place because we believe that there is nothing that cannot be resolved by dialogue.” The Obirikom traditional ruler, Eze Christian Uzor Nkisa, urged Agip to look inwards for oil thieves, stressing that its staff members and JTF security operatives should be thoroughly investigated instead of pointing finger on the communities. He said the presence of heavily armed JTF men at ONELGA land and sea vindicates him and community of the accusation on oil theft. He was corroborated by Father Obi, a clergy of the Catholic Church, who noted that “with the presence of heavily armed security personnel, especially the Military and Police at the facilities it is impossible for civilians to successfully engage in vandalism. How is it possible that anybody can steal oil there and come all the way to that one road, (the military men are also at the Orashi river), and pass all the security check points and were not detected?” Representative of NAOC, Nuhu Dahiru, Dahiru, said: “I disagree with the conclusion of the Reverend on the comments that were earlier made that as a company, we are responsible for the vandalisation of our assets and also oil theft activities that have led to huge devastation of the environment. “We are a responsible organisation, we care about the communities we operate in, we care about the environment, we care about our assets, and we also care about our reputation. “The NOSDRA Director and the representative of DRP have earlier thrown light on the process of JIVs. The facts there even in the regulatory agencies for anyone that cares to verify, the cause of spills are discovered during JIVs. “We have voided a number of JIVs simply because community representative did not show up, we have not and will never ever invite somebody by giving them money or any form of inducement to act as community representative, we have not done that and will never do such a thing, the facts are there. “All the incidences that have occurred have been investigated, and if you go through the records you will see that in the last three years, 85 to 90 per cent of oil spill incidences are due to sabotage, vandalism for no just cause. “That is one thing that we are hoping that this meeting will be able to address.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

X-raying the Greater Port Harcourt city S

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt The Rotimi Amaechi's administration in Rivers State in 2009, took a proactive step by creating the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority (GPHCDA), with a vision to build a well-planned city, through the implementation and enforcement of policies that would ensure the provision of first rate infrastructure and delivery of quality services, to enhance the living standard of the people. The new Port Harcourt city is an extension of the old Port Harcourt city. The intent is to allow for urban growth strategic planning and de-densification of the old city, while gradually integrating both cities as one single unit. The authority is providing infrastructure, some of which have been completed, while others are at various stages of completion. It is also regulating developments in the new city to avoid distortion of the GPHCDA master plan. Some of the projects embarked upon by the GPHCDA, which has Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam, as its Administrator, are completed sports precinct access road, the Port Harcourt Centenary housing development, storm water canal and detention pond, 33KVA electricity supply substation, completed water project and Monte Rivers temporary access road. The other projects are M-10 highway road, internal township and priority roads, waste management facility and 18-hole Golf Course with Golf Estate and Resorts. In spite of commencing the first set of mixed-use housing project, in partnership with Liberty Land Limited, located in lots 124 and 143, and having conducted a transparent land ballot exercise for serviced plots, strictly for residential use in the low density area of the new city, which drew 114 winners from different categories in June this year, the GPHCDA has just recorded another feat, through offering of investment opportunities to prospective corporate and institutional clients in the commercial layout of the city, known as the Light Commercial Area

From left: Ms.Donu Kogbra, Mr.Nedo Osayande, Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam, Steve Onu, Tonye Cole and Sir Godfrey Ohuabunwa during the unveiling of the GPHcity new identity.

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

and Central City District, which is strictly designated within the Greater Port Harcourt City Masterplan commercial light activities and intended for immediate development, thereby strengthening partnership and collective ownership of the new city project. The successful investment road show brought together over 300 stakeholders and people from all sectors of the economy, who were thrilled by the opportunities to be part of the new city's development. The administrator of the GPHCDA, during the recent official presentation of the opportunities in the commercial layout of the city at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, stated that investing in the new city project would attract good return on investment, in view of the unique selling points. Cookey-Gam said: "The selling points are issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (Cof O) and the title documents within 45 days of receipt of application, 10 per cent discount for early birds, granting planning approval within 30 days of receipt of application, protection from multiple taxation, instalmental payment for mega investors, investors with green project will

be supported by the authority and land swap for strategic investors and blue chip companies interested in extensive investment in the new city is also assured." The administrator also called on investors to take advantage of the offers, stressing that despite the three anchors in the master plan, the GPHCDA has development nodes like the new industrial area in Eleme, education layout in Elikpokpodu/Mbodo Aluu, the Golf Course, Estate and Resorts in Omagwa, low density residential area, light commercial and city central district in Igwuruta-Ali and Igwuruta. Cookey-Gam assured that the authority would not compromise quality standards and strict compliance in implementing the master plan, which was described as one of the reasons for the phased development. The President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Chief Steve Onu, while also speaking at the event, lamented that cities are now growing without appropriate planning, stating that they would become increasingly chaotic, inefficient and unsustainable. Onu affirmed that the new Port Harcourt city's master plan covered every aspect of physical planning and that if well implemented, would serve as a

model for other cities in Africa. The President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners also noted that the establishment of the Greater Port Harcourt City by the Rivers government was a timely response to the need to create, control and manage the urban environment, to avoid the flaws of the previous master plans. The Chairman of the Board of the GPHCDA, Tonye Cole, an Architect and the Chairman of the authority's Board Committee on Investment and Brand Marketing, Sir Godfrey Ohuabunwa, in their separate speeches, stated that the dream of a new city in Port Harcourt was long overdue, because of multiple increase in population, inadequate infrastructure and unstructured development, which would not encourage investment and rapid development. Cole and Ohuabunwa also noted that the Rivers state government, through the GPHCDA, had set the tone for infrastructure and new city development in Africa, while assuring investors that their investments at the Greater Port Harcourt City is sustainable, safe and devoid of discrimination. The Managing Director/Country Chair of the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited

(SPDC), Mutiu Sunmonu, who was represented by the Anglo/Dutch oil giant's General Manager, Sustainable Developments and Community Relations , Nedo Osayande, while unveiling the Greater Port Harcourt City identity, stated that the new city has potential to trigger economic development, with the private sector investments providing the backbone for long term growth, prosperity and opportunity, which he said would add value to the infrastructural development in Africa and lead a major renaissance in the continent's infrastructure deficit. Sunmonu stressed that it was imperative to commend and encourage the GPHCDA for sticking to the new city's master plan and ensuring that the Greater Port Harcourt City develops in a structured manner. Shell's managing irector described city building as a continuous process, while calling for the support of all stakeholders for the structured growth of the GPHCDA, which he said would set the pace for the new cities' development in Africa. With Amaechi's assurance that almost all ongoing projects in Rivers State will be completed before the expiration of his tenure on May 29 next year, the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dwellers have cause to cheer.

Double celebrations for an apostle of God

T was a double celebration for Apostle John Richard, the Presiding Bishop of Warriors of Christ International Church Port Harcourt, as his friends, family and well-wishers gathered to mark his 25th year in the Ministry and as well as his 42nd birthday celebration. The event started with a church service and ended with thanksgiving, during which hundrends of prominent dignitaries, including Senator Magnus Abe, a former Minister of Transport, Alabo Tonye Graham Douglas and others joined the man of the moment to thank God for many victories and successes. The guests included great men of God who came from different parts of the country to celebrate with one of their own. Some of the members of the church and guests who spoke to Niger Delta Report said the Warriors of Christ, as a church, has enough reasons to celebrate considering the temptation and persecution against the presiding Bishop and members of the church that almost led to the collapse of the ministry. They recalled when the Bishop was accused of using diabolical means to perform miracles and attempts to destroy the church and properties. A member of the church Mr. Onyebuchi Peter said "We are not only celebrating our Father in the

â&#x20AC;˘Bishop John, his wife and guests assisting in cuting the cake From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

Lord for his 25 years in the ministry and for adding another year in his life, we are also celebrating the victory of good over evil. Some pastors in Port Harcourt last year ganged up against our church saying all kinds of things. They also said my Bishop was using a diabolic means to perform miracle, they sent police and thugs to destroy our church some members of the church were arrested. When the heat became too much to bear, the Bishop went into hiding. So we thank God today that we are celebrating this great man of God in this church. " Describing Bishop John Richard

as a great man of God, the chairman of the occasion Mr. Greg Ogbaifo said one needed not be told that Bishop Richard is filled with the grace of God. He noted that the crowd that embraced the occasion was enough to understand the kind of life he lives. He said, "My prayer for him is that as God gives him years in the ministry so shall his strength be. And so shall his congregation grow and the anointing of God in his life will increase on a daily basis." Ogbaifo said there was no doubt that the Bishop was a man called by God, stressing, "when a man speaks into your life and it come pass, then; we need to believe that he is a true

man of God. From the growth of the ministry, the Lord said he will bless the work of our hands, this ministry only started seven years ago and you can see how big the church is growing. "There are churches I know in this town that have been in existence for 15 years and they are still where they are. It is obvious; he is a humble man, he is a true man of God. There are so many churches and so many ministers all over the place, some are called some have called themselves. So we have listened to believe the spirit of discernment to know who are called and who have called himself. I believe this man of God is called of God. When we listen to the things he is doing not only in the kingdom but in the secular world, especially reaching out to orphanages, widows, then you will know that he was chosen to make sacrifice to take the ministry beyond church, tithes and offerings." Senator Magnus Abe commended the celebrant for having the gift to work in God's vineyard and also thanked God for giving him the gift of the ministry. He urged him and other men of God to speak out for the truth and for the good of the society. "As we face some challenges in our country today, the place of the church as the sanctuary of truth has become very important. It is a place

where God's intention in our lives and the lives of our country cannot be contaminated, cannot be confused and cannot be diluted by man. The place of the church in Nigeria today is more important than it has ever been and it is our prayer that God will continue to raise men of truth and holiness to do His work in a very challenging period in the life of our country." A former Minister of Transport, Alabo Tonye Graham-Douglas described Apostle Richard as a believer. "Since I met the Bishop I have observed and interacted with him and have found him to be enthusiastic and an assiduous young man that is devoted to his work. " Responding, Bishop John Richard said he lacked words to thank God and those who left their various worship centers to attend his double celebration and thanksgiving. "I feel so overwhelmed, I feel so excited and I feel like any celebrated person in the world. Twenty-five years in the ministry is not 25 months, I am thanking God for the vision and for making me to see this day especially when the grace has become double to mark my birthday today.â&#x20AC;? The highpoint of the celebration was the cutting of the anniversary and birthday cake by Bishop Richard who was supported by friends and well-wishers.

Ogbe-Ijoh leader celebrates a 'dutiful wife'

, Chief Favour Izoukumor, the pokesperson) of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Delta State gathered, family and d out the drum to celebrate the his first wife, Mrs Beatrice SHOLA O'NEIL was there

celebration thanksgiving Believers Love sy) Church in g. From there, mor, joined by well-wishers ious Kayriott efinery Road,

ded the crème ger Delta socimagnates and . They all conwoman dend, Chief FaOwei of Ogbederful and duas been there d contributed ess of my life." ukawhore, the Director, De mited, who admonished he attributes Izoukumor to ged them to be ouses through mes, stressing would become celebrant. ding Chief EO Lurine Niurling the red ved wife, he ontinue to live mony that had their union. cision to celt two decades, lained that it rolled out the who stood by d thin. He euroll and pae. He said her d led to peaced coherence in

e and she has ying the home, he has for me onsibility with his is my little ou' to her and

to encourage her to keep being of good cheers," the former President of Izon-Ebe Oil Producing Communities Forum said. Earlier in the opening prayer, Pastor Paul Omigie of Believers Love World (Christ Embassy) prayed for God's blessing upon the celebrant's life and those of her family and five children. He also prayed for the continued success of the couple's marriage, their peace and prosperity. There were also prayers from guests, including the mother of the celebrant, Mrs Adabraka Orunsanaiye, who urged the couple to remain united in love, peace and progress. The event also presented an opportunity for individuals and groups who have benefited from Mrs Izoukumor's kindness and philanthropy to express their appreciation and love to her. The recipients included a group of young lawyers, who she supported through their courses, as well as artisans and people from all walks of life. The high point of the occasion was the unveiling of a brand new 2014 BMW 3 series birthday gift from Chief Izoukumor to the celebrant and the cutting of the birthday. The car presentation was done by High Chief Egukawhore and Chief Tunde Smooth, the CEO Smutuns Nigeria Limited, who is popularly called Bolowei of Niger Delta. Guests at the occasion included the Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Hon Frank Omare, the Chairman of Warri South West Local Government Council, Chief George Ekpemupolo; PDP Chairman in the area, Chief Boro Opudu and Chairman Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Governing Council, Hon Lucky Oromoni. There were also key players in the oil and gas industry in the area, such as Chief and Mrs Sunday Agbugbu, Managing Director, Someni Nigeria Limited; Chief Mathew Tonlagha of Fenog Nigeria Limited; Julius Aroyehun, MD, Batek Nigeria Limited; Francis Oyinmi, PRO, Daewoo Nigeria Limited and Hon A. Arthur

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

other task assigned to them. Imaseun in several interviews had explained that he was not in control of how the beneficiaries are paid but to supervise the processes in the state. Addressing some of the beneficiaries when members of the House of Representatives Committee on Rural Development, came calling, Imaseun said, "President Goodluck wants to end poverty in Nigeria and that is why he decided to come up with these programme and it is not for any particular party it is for all Nigerians. So, report to the police anybody who come to you that you should bring money before you are

The Cross River State Security Adviser, Mr Rekpene Bassey, reporters in Calabar on the achievements of the present adm security among other issues. NICHOLAS KALU was there

•Izoukumor and children

•Mrs Izoukkumor being assisted by her husband to cut the birthday cake

•Mrs Adabraka Orusanaiye, celebrant’s mother

and Billy Aisien, General and Personnel managers of Lurine Nigeria Limited respectively. Others are

•Mr and Mrs M O Akuogbodo

Chief Meg Afunfien, Martins Ogaga; a renowned lawyer Akougbodu and his wife; Chief Dennis Otuaro; Afro

Biukeme, CEO Afrotex and Apostle Census Oluba, former Chairman of Okerenkoko Community.

Comedians and DJs including Akaba1 provided entertainment and thrills for guests and the celebrants,

Where are the beneficiaries of ‘Goodluck alert’?

arch and April me people were treets of Benin y service. They in traffic contreets and othnity services. upposedly the ed under the nd Youth Emne of the comReinvestment ogramme pop-P. SURE-P workluck alert' by of SURE-P, Mr. wever, after ee months, the workers have

‘Cross River remains the safest state in

the state and local governments were doing with their share of SURE-P funds. He disclosed that the state government collects N400m monthly while each local government gets between N15m and N20m and expressed regret that Edo share of the SURE-P fund was not meeting their core purpose of complementing the federal government monthly allocations geared towards the delivering on live touching projects to the people. Much of the funds to the state and local government, Imaseun alleges, ended up in private pockets and added that state share of the agency's fund "is under-utilized by its tiers of government". He said, "Local councils hves noth-

N15million to N20million naira SURE-P fund monthly; while the Edo State government get N400 million. I therefore urged you all to challenge them to accountability". Reacting, Edo State Government said its share of the Subsidy Re-investment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) was used for the delivery of service to the vulnerable segments of the society. State Commissioner for Information, Louis Odion said the palliative measures the SURE-P fund was being channeled to took off long before it received a kobo of the fund. The Commissioner challenged Imasuen "to deny if what comes to his agency is not being shared as patronage to PDP leaders and wages

when PDP makes a retired bodyguard in United States treasurer of SURE-P in Edo State. The man is simply not familiar with how state budget runs. If Mr. Imasuen does, he would not have asked such question." "Pupils in Edo State who are ferried daily to and from public schools free of charge since 2012, secondary school students who no longer pay school fees of any kind since 2012 and senior Edo citizens who are 60 years and above who enjoy free medicare since 2012 will certainly be laughing at Mr. Imasuen's ignorance." "Long before PDP-led Federal Government announced the sharing formular of the SURE-P after the national subsidy riot of 2012, Comrade

ering safety nets directly to the vulnerable segments of our society including children and the aged. "We are aware that when people are hosted under tattered canopies in private homes in the name of SURE-P, the state SURE-P account is debited as though the meeting held in a 5-Star hotel. Edo people know the fraud that is going on in SURE-P under Mr. Imasuen." "Rather than dabble into a realm that is beyond his cognitive ability, we advise Mr. Imasuen to restrict himself to his area of competence which is providing gatemen and bodyguards." When contacted on why those receiving "Goodluck Alert" were no longer working, Imaseun retorted,

who were joined by her husband and children when she took the floor to show off her dancing skill.

HAT would you say had that, I must commend the operatives been the achievement of who uncovered and nabbed the government in terms of suspects. And here is the irony about security. It is a thankless job. Nobody security in the last seven years? Our achievements in terms of says well-done for all the great and security are not only clearly obvious, mighty feats that are achieved daily but far reaching and are there for by security, yet everyone is quick to everyone to see. We have consistently condemn security managers for isolated remained on the lower rungs of the infractions national crime index. Cross River State remains the safest state in the country today in spite of the security concerns in our general area and elsewhere in the country. Suffice it to add here that the security architecture put in place by the present administration accounts for the serenity, safety and security we have enjoyed so far. Specifically put, some of the infrastructure that have helped our security system include our Emergency Response Centre – Quick Intervention Squad (ERCQIS), which has the Emergency Management, Fire and Ambulance Units. Besides, we have a comprehensive security action plan drawn by all the official security services in the state – mainly the Police, Department of State Services, Civil Defence, the Army, Navy and Air Force. The plan also encapsulates the NDLEA and other paramilitary agencies. The plan is composite with the oversight of my office. Despite attempts to curb communal clashes, there still always occur. What can be done? Situations that lead to communal clashes in Cross River State like elsewhere are sometimes •Mr Rekpene Bassey completely unpredictable. In instances where the remote causes and security breaches when they already exist, it just requires a little occur, even unavoidably or spark in terms of immediate cause inadvertently. The issue of extra judicial killings for a communal clash to occur. For instance, we have had cases where a is on the rise, suspected criminals are being killed without trials, what is quarrel and/or a fight between two persons from two aggrieved being done about this? I am not aware of the cases of extra communities led to actual hostilities between the communities; which is judicial killings you are referring to, rather unfortunate. Having said that, at least as far as Cross River State is let me note here that our security concerned. Here, we believe in due situation is pretty enviable in relative process and rule of law, particularly terms, when compared to what is in due judicial processes. So what you happening elsewhere to the Glory of are talking about may apply God. I can only say further that the elsewhere but not here, we don’t kind of communal clashes we condone impunity here. But as you experience here are in isolated very well know, most career instances due to disagreement over criminals possess lethal weapons land and/or traditional office which they use when they go out to perpetrate violent crimes. In the holding. Recently, it was reported that course of encounter with security some group of persons were arrested agencies they tend to use such when they attempted to blow up the weapons. You do not expect security Calabar/Itu Bridge from the Akwa operatives not to defend themselves Ibom end. Are you taking this during encounters with hoodlums. If an armed criminal is killed in the attempt seriously? The report on arrest of certain course, it will just be an act committed persons who intended to blow up Itu in the line of duty within the limits of Bridge has some veracity. The motive the law; which is legally and morally of that heinous plan by the arrested acceptable. There are reports that politicians suspects will be made known to the public by the police which is have been recruiting thugs and cultists investigating the matter in due course. to ensure their security. Is your office I can only conjecture that the intention aware of this and are there any preto perpetrate such high level act of emptive steps being taken to avoid terrorism was motivated by gross mayhem during this political period? You have a responsibility as a wickedness. The lesson from this is that we are not immune from the journalist and good citizen of the wave of terrorism that is on-going country to avail security with useful across the world. This calls for extra- information about this. So if you vigilance, improved hi-tech covert know such politicians I would be glad and overt operations, surveillance, to have details about them in confidence. All I can say further on

will like to us proffer a stro urgent need t holding less earnings. Th service, and no gains and situation wh holders take a of money at th masses can desperation of office seeker continue to le support of stro alternatives a tension during We work reflection of se We know and all the politic state. We hav effective coun count on the nothing wi surprise. Th security enhance phil

more by the p various partie their determin trouble maker rest assured th nothing to d political troub You just laun us what the mo you want to ac I am the co “Policing and Nigeria” whic eminent Nig Criminology Professor E University of J Tangban of t Academy, Kad motivated by policing in Nig helped by the thinkers, who co-editors. Th finely finished three of which the introducti book. The for written by Gen Dambazau (Rt Army Staff, w Professor of Strategic Stud was meant to honour of th General of Pol Abubakar. Bu that he was no to go ahead academic mat would not onl and crime prev

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

Mystery in Amaechi's hometown as fallen tree 'rises' after two weeks T

HOSE who saw and heard of the mysterious event at Ubima, hometown of Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, describe it differently: some say it is amazing; others say it is mysterious and unbelievable. The 'rising' of a sacred tree that was felled by windstorm in the community has continued to elicit mixed reaction from the people of the area. Niger Delta Report’s investigation in Ubima, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, revealed that the 'rising' of the fallen tree led to panic and anxiety among locals, particularly the aged, who felt that something must be done to appease the gods of the land. Juju priests and local deity adherents believed that it was a warning from the gods that they would not take kindly to being neglected any longer. But Christian leaders said the rising of the tree was a ploy by the devil to return the Ikwerre community to the dark days. It was gathered that the mystery started some weeks ago when a heavy downpour, accompanied by thunder and windstorm wreaked havoc in the community. Several houses and properties were destroyed by the ill wind. And among the 'victims' was a tree in the sacred forest, called Ali-Ubima, which was uprooted by the wind. But as the saying goes, 'one man's loss is another's gain' . It was gathered that loggers quickly brought out their motor-saw and went to work on the fallen tree. Azubuike Chukwu was one of those who went to work on the fallen tree. He and his colleagues got more than they bargained for. He told our reporter that the threat that the wood was in a sacred forest did not scare him because he had worked in woodlands described as more unfriendly and dreadful than AliUbima. But a few hours after he went in, the logger left with his tail between his legs. Chukwu said: "We went there to saw one of the trees that were pushed down by the wind. After dividing the long tree, we became hungry and tired; so, we decided to leave the work to look for food. To our greatest surprise, when we returned to the forest, we discovered that the tree had risen from the root side and stood up again. That was how we abandoned everything and ran for our dear lives." The awe-struck logger and his colleagues beat a hasty retreat from the forest. They ran into town to tell the unbelievable story of a tree that fell and rose again. "We ran for our dear lives because nobody knew what could happen after that," he said, adding that they left behind the paraphernalia of their operation. The news that a fallen tree in AliUbima had risen again spread quickly, like wildfire, through the community. Those who heard the incredible story soon shook off their fear, took their smart phones and turned the scene into a Mecca of sort. But while crowd from far and near trooped in to catch a glimpse of the mysterious occurrence, elders and leaders of the community were troubled. One of the leaders who spoke with our reporter said: "It is disturbing to hear that a tree that has fallen stood up again, especially when this happens in the sacred forest, it is an indication that all is not well in Ubima." However, while the elders were troubled by the occurrence, one man was joyful. The happy man was Elder Raphael Amadi, the Chief Priest who described himself as the 'Commander of Juju Priest in the community'. He

Part of the tree that was cut

From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

said he celebrated and rejoiced when the incident happened because it vindicated his position that the abandonment of the community's deity would one day come back to haunt them. He said he had been telling the community that Ali Ubima was still alive, but the members of the community would not believe him. He lamented that the community for a long time abandoned the deity and ceased to give it sacrifice or obey its command. He noted that members of the community daily disobeyed the spirit of Ali Ubima and encroached into the forest to build houses, cut down trees and do anything they like, believing that Ali Ubima is dead. It was gathered before the advent of the Christian religion and proliferation of churches in the community, Ali Ubima was a sacred forest that was revered by the members of the community. It was seen as the saviour and protector of the people during time of peace and war and it was believed that through the chief priests, the deity could alert them of pending dooms and calamity. An elder said: "The mentioning of the name of Ali Ubima saves one from any danger, but today the community no longer regards it as a sacred place. In fact, they believe that there is nothing like Ali Ubima; that was why the members of the community fearlessly entered the forest to cut down trees, build houses and do anything they want." However, the unusual event of the rising of the tree awoke the elders who rushed to see the Chief Priest for consultation and supplications to appease the god and forestall an even deadlier reaction from the angry deity. Some of the community members, who spoke with this reporter, expressed either total ignorance of the deity or said they had forgotten about Ali Ubima to worship the Almighty God. "In this era, nobody is talking about worshiping of spirit. Many years ago they told us that Ali Ubima is no longer in the forest that she got angry and ran out of the forest. So, what happened recently was a surprise to the entire community. If you go to Ali Ubima today, you would discover that people have started defying the forest. Nobody wants to worry him or herself with man-made god or spirit. I visited the scene and I was surprised by what I saw," Michael Ordu said. Narrating his role in the drama, the chief priest said: "I was in my house when members of the community came in large numbers pleading to

The Chief Priest talking to the tree after ‘rising’

me that I should follow them to the forest to plead with the gods of the land. Then I asked them what happened and they said the tree in Ali Ubima forest which fell down few weeks ago had stood again after the wood cutter separated the wood. I immediately fell into laughter praising the spirit for vindicating me. I was very happy and excited. To be frank, I did not want to follow them but for the sake of the god I serve, I decided to go and plead with the spirit. "When I looked at the tree and the entire forest I saw the annoyance of the spirit. I made some incantations to appease the gods to forgive the community for neglecting her. I also informed the spirit that I am only a messenger who has been so honest in serving her. The only problem I had in serving her is that my people are no longer interested in her protection. After that fateful day I called a meeting of Chiefs and Elders of the community where issues on how to respect and honour the Ali Ubima were discussed. But one thing is certain; some people still doubt the power of Ali Ubima and its existence. But I am only a messenger of the gods and I have made my message clear to them if they like let them abide by it or dishonour it." Despite the event, Elder Amadi expressed doubt that the event would change the perception of the people towards the worship of the deity. In fact, he was doubtful of willingness and ability of the community to find a suitable priest to head the clan after his demise. "Nobody in this community is qualified to serve Ali Ubima spirit except the person is a native of Akpohia village, who entrusted to worship and to serve the spirit. Many people have served her including my father before it got to my turn and I am glad to serve her. Not even everybody that is of Akpohia could serve her because your hands must be clean. Some died in the process of trying to serve her but since I started serving her nothing has happened to me. My father was not afraid to enter the forest and he diligently served the god before he died. Now that it is my turn to serve her I will do everything possible to ensure that the community respect the forest. Elder Amadi opined that the worship of the deity does not stop the worship of God, stressing that it could be done side by side. "Just because people believe that they are worshiping God, tell me who is not worshiping God. In the olden days when we are keeping to the law of Ali Ubima are we not worshipping God? So why should somebody believe that the only way to worship

his or her God is to disrespect the gods and tradition of the land? "This is where the source of abnormal happening in the community is coming from, because the gods of the land is angry with the people. Today people no longer make sacrifice to the gods even when situation warrants them to do so. Before, when you fall from a tree and die, the family of the victim must make a sacrifice to the gods before that person would be buried. When you die at your youthful age, or something falls on top you and you die, that person's family must make a sacrifice to gods before he or she will be buried but nobody agrees to do it anymore, instead they will tell you that they are going to church. "Even in the meeting with the elders, I told them my mind that the community should respect the gods and give sacrifices that belong to her. Even in the olden days, there is church and there is tradition; yet people never withhold what belong to the gods. I am happy that if I die today, my burial tradition would be maintained as chief priest of Ali Ubima. As a humble servant of the god, I will not be taken to mortuary. I will be buried the same day. The community will construct a wood in form of bed, decorate it and lift it up. A black dog with night vision and hegoat will be slaughtered before I will be buried. This practice has been with us since the existence of the community." Expectedly, some Christian religious leaders in the community, whose opinion were sought by our reporter, differed and expressed their reservation about the occurrence. They said the devil has no power in the present generation, adding that the community should not be carried away by the 'devil's display', which they said is a gimmick aimed at turning taking the community back to old days. Pastor Odinaka Dike of First Baptist Church advised the community to see the event as an opportunity to be liberated from the evil forest and all that it portends and stands for. "The community with the wisdom of God should clear the forest and build a house of God on the land. The devil has no power over man. The Juju priest is ignorant of what he is serving. The only person in this world that deserves sacrifice is God. The community cannot because of one devilish sign in the forest decide to turn their back on God; that will not happen. Ali Ubima has been forgotten by the community and no amount of sign that would make the people to worship her again."

Rivers varsity seeks answers to Niger Delta problems From Clarie Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

WORRIED by the prevailing environmental challenges in the oil-rich Niger Delta, the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port Harcourt says it has resolved to use its international conferences to proffer solutions to issues militating against the development of the region. This, the university said, is why it hinged the theme of its last week's 2nd International Conference on "Flood and Erosion Prevention, Protection and Mitigation" so that it could be used to proffer solution to the peculiar environmental problems facing the Niger Delta region. Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the university, Prof. Barineme Fakae, expressed gratitude to the participants who have come either to deliver papers or give audience to the lectures. He drew attention to flooding and erosion that have impacted negatively on the communities in the region in recent times. The chairman of the conference, a Professor Emeritus, Dagogo Fubara, commended those who have championed the cause of solving the region’s problems.

Foundation honours Justice Obaseki From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

A RETIRED Supreme Court Judge, Justice Andrews Otutu Obaseki, has been bestowed with the Role Model Award by the led by Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF). The HLF said the award was in recognition of Justice Obasaki's outstanding qualities and contributions to the growth of the legal profession and judiciary. The event took place in Benin, the Edo State capital. Presenting the award, a member of HLF board and first female Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Grace AleleWilliams, said Justice Obaseki was picked as a recipient because of his courage throughout his career in both the bar and bench. Prof Alele-Williams said: "I am extremely happy that we are honouring a Justice that has done wonderfully for our part of the world, our part of the country and of whom we are very proud." She urged the younger generation to emulate the qualities of Justice Obaseki as a role model on hard work, dedication and forthrightness, noting that while others were in the habit of using their positions to make quick money, "he was busy establishing a good reputation for himself. Executive Secretary of the Foundation, Mrs. Patricia OtuedonArawore, said: "HLF believes that something has to be done to salvage the image of our country. I am convinced that our society still boasts of exemplary men and women who against all odds have embraced integrity; that there are great Nigerians who can match and excel their contemporaries elsewhere." Responding on behalf of the Obaseki family, former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr Jackson GaiusObaseki said "I feel very happy and it gives me hope.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

HE vendor just supplies his copies of the day’s dailies. He reads the front page of his favourite, Noisemaker. He is soon on the continuation page and what Moseyn Ekiw sees troubles him. It is a report quoting an elder in Waters State denying reconciling with him at a church service last Sunday. He remembers that his aides have flooded You Tube with the video of his encounter with Elder Maharg Douglas at the Amazing Stars Bible Synagogue. He reads the report and Elder Maharg Douglas says he only greeted him in church as a true Christian. “I made it clear to him that there was no way I can support his aspiration. I told him the governor has to be a man from among the People on Water or Saro-Wiwa people. I won’t compromise on that. Giving blessing to his aspiration will amount to going against a principle I believe so much in and I won’t do that,” this part of the report makes him feel bad. “What is wrong with this old man?” he asks himself. But an inner voice tells him: “Nothing really is wrong with the old man. You are the one that has changed; the one who has forgotten your stand on the need for the governorship of the state to move to people who have not had it before. What has come over you?” He continues reading another of the elder’s quote: “He calls himself the caterpillar. We don’t need a caterpillar in this state. What we need is a cool-headed young man, who can unite the state and ensure that we are in safe hand. We certainly do not need a bulldozer. What will he do for us? I think a caterpillar will just scatter us.” Before he finishes reading the report, a call comes in. It is Haubo, the man he installed as the leader of the Umbrella Peoples Party (UPP) while he was a minister of the Republic of Niagra. “Good morning chief, have you seen The Noisemaker?” Haubo asks. “I have and I wonder why Elder is doing this to me. I begged him on Sunday and in a church, the house of God. He should have allowed bygone to be by-gone. Does he have to come out in the media to deny me? He even said I came to ambush him in his church. He said I was not a member and only came to ambush him. Can you imagine that?” Haubo says: “Your Excellency, the man is too soaked in with Governor Timiro. Don’t mind him.” Ekiw cuts in: “You are saying don’t mind him. This man is well-respected in this state. His People on Water respect him so much and his opinion carries weight in this state. And forget all those propaganda that the People on Water don’t have much electoral numbers. They actually do because many of them don’t actually live on water any more. They are now living among us. If you add the figures of those living among us, they are more than those still

OLUKOREDE YISHAU

ABOVE WHISPERS

•A weekly intervention on Southsouth people and matters

olukoredeyishau@gmail.com

Lonely in the spotlight

‘

Your Excellency, don’t forget that our major backer in this project, the First Dame— who has declared you as the son in whom she is well pleased and has the ability to go and conquer and wipe our tears— is also one of the People on Water

on water. I sense trouble.” Haubo thinks of what next to say to encourage his man. “Your Excellency,” he sounds like a sycophant to himself, “don’t forget that our major backer in this project, the First Dame— who has declared you as the son in whom she is well pleased and has the ability to go and conquer and wipe our tears— is also one of the People on Water. Her voice carries weight among her people too. With people like her and others with us from this area, we will neutralise the like of Elder.” There is a second silence before Ekiw comes

LAST WORD

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

‘

It is only desperate and irresponsible politicians that recourse to recruitment and use of thugs to pursue their political aspirations. (There is) the urgent need to make political office holding less attractive in terms of earnings. The focus ought to be service, and not self-serving personal gains and aggrandisement

‘

A security consultant, Mr Rekpene Bassey

‘

in again: “The situation is not as easy as you have painted. Forget all those noise I make in the public; when I am alone, I do critical analysis and thinks of what I can do not to be disgraced at the end of the day. That is why I came up with the idea of going with you guys on Sunday to go and worship in Elder’s church and see if we can get him on our side. We certainly need more of him on our side for me not to be put to shame…” “You’ll not be put to shame in Jesus’s name,” Haubo cuts in and sounds like a man sure he does not deserve to mention the holy name of Jesus considering all the treacheries he has been involved in all in the name of making Ekiw the governor.

They soon sign off with an agreement to meet later in the day to review the situation and fashion the way forward. He changes his position to the one-seater in the living room and continues reading The Noisemaker. A story on page six catches his attention. It is about the 16 aspirants ganging up against him. He wonders why they are doing that instead of joining hands with him to defeat Governor Timiro’s candidate. The G-16 is threatening a court action to stop his emergence as the party’s candidate. “What the hell is wrong with these guys?” He decides to stop reading at this point. ############### The market is busy. It looks like one of those modern markets Governor Timiro has just built. Ekiw sees a figure walking towards him. It turns out to be his mother who died a month ago. She walks up to him and says: “ My son, it is a good thing to be the governor, but it is also a bad thing to cheat others in trying to become governor. The other day that the First Dame brought a letter saying she wanted you to drop out of the race for the People on Water, I was secretly happy because I thought she had seen the light and that it would help you to get right your priorities. You had spoken about the job they offered you in Paris and I had prayed the offer should still be there for you to grab. But I was devastated when the First Dame changed her mind again and insisted it must be you.” She stops talking at this stage. Ekiw looks confused. He wants to tell her to continue but he seems to have gone dumb. Hard as he tries his mouth only opens and no word comes out of it. Then his mother begins to walk away. Then he notices an inscription at the back of the T-shirt she is wearing. It reads: “Lonely in the spotlight.” And he wonders if it has anything to do with his situation. There is no doubt he is in the spotlight, but is he lonely? Is it possible to be in the spotlight and be lonely? ############### He is soaked to the skin as he jumps out of the chair where sleep chanced on him. Flashes of the dream return to him and the one that sticks is the part about being in the spotlight and still being lonely. His wife soon runs down from the room upstairs. “Honey, what happened? I heard you scream and why are you sweating with the AC on?” “Did I scream?” “You did.” “It was a dream or a nightmare. I saw Mama talking to me about my aspiration. It looked like she was dead and came back alive to talk to me. But my own mother is not dead. What kind of a dream is this?” His wife just walks away at this point, saying as she goes up: “I just hope we will emerge unhurt from this your quest to run against the tide. I hope your decision to go against your own words will not harm us. I just hope so.”

BY OKUNGBOWA AIWERIE

Before garbage takes over Asaba

SHADOWY figure burdened with a sack darts across the dimly lit street stopping momentarily on the median along Ibusa road, to deposit a sack full of garbage. As far as the eye can see, neatly stacked plastic bags line the median on the two major roads in Asaba –namely Ibusa and Nnebisi, vitiating efforts of the government to improve sanitary conditions. Illegal dumping of refuse has become predominant practice with illegal dumpsite adorning major streets and intersections in Asaba, the Delta State capital. With the failure of the Delta State Waste Management Board to develop an effective waste evacuation plan, residents have taken laws into their own hands by dumping their waste indiscriminately. A desperate bid to curb the menace of filth saw Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan constituting a 25-man special sanitation team chaired by Deputy Governor Prof Amos Utuama but these efforts appears to have come to nought. The Chairman, Delta State Waste Management Board (DSWMB), Olori Magege, in an interview over a month ago assured that with the plans being put in place by the Uduaghn administration, waste management would improve. According to Magege the private waste

collectors had not done a good job in waste evacuation, but blamed residents for defaulting in their monthly payments to the waste collectors. Magege said with the World Bank’s entry into waste disposal in the State, Deltans would see an improved waste collection system. He said SEEFOR, a World Bank-assisted programme was designed to empower youths using the platforms of waste management and road maintenance. He said the programme had the capacity to employ a large number of youths, adding that the pilot scheme would start in Warri, Ughelli, Sapele and Asaba. According to him with the SEEFOR project many idle Deltans would be gainfully employed, adding that the state had been zoned into 130 zones with a PSP assigned to each zone. With the new waste management policy in the State, Magege said monitoring and enforcement would be reinforced. But over a month since SEEFOR took off, the sanitary conditions have not improved; illegal dumpsite have continued to thrive and the Asaba metropolis is at the verge of being swamped by garbage. Although, some old rickety trucks ply the streets of Asaba , but this has not translated to effective evacuation of filth in the

community. A resident, Mrs Felicia Abuah, said the dumping of filth on the median of major roads would continue due to the inefficiency of the agency saddled with the responsibility of waste evacuation. A retired school headmaster, Mr Vincent Okafor, also blamed the DSWMB for failing in its responsibility to address the issue of effective registration of resident and its inability to enforce its laws. His words: “The failure to register everybody as directed by the law and the inability to enforce or compel defaulters to register and to sanction them by the DSWMB gave birth to the present irresponsible attitude displayed on our environment.” He expressed sadness at what he called 'lack of moral, conscience and culture of decency' in the society, and urged DSWMB to address the situation squarely. Another resident, Mrs Mary Ijeoma, said the dumping of waste on street median ‘is a real trial of the efficiency of the DSWMB. If the management of the board excelled in its performance the refuse will not be staring at us on the roads now’. But it remains to be seen whether the DSWMB will rise up to the challenge of effective waste disposal and save Asaba residents from a possible outbreak of disease.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

SHOPPING

Lower Trade and Higher Poverty Rate Are Cousins Nigeria is not just a place to set up a business. The country is a big and growing market. Investing in Nigeria is tantamount to connecting to a big market HE relationship between trade and poverty is inverted. Countries with higher proportions of global trade tend to have less of poverty. Conversely, countries which contribute the least to global trade have higher poverty rates. This shows the importance of good trade policies in reducing poverty rates and increasing prosperity. Also, this shows why there is intense competition for export markets even by countries that already control significant share of global trade. Little wonder trade facilitation has become an economic policy of great importance. Development experts can’t agree more. Jim Yong Kim, the World Bank president, said in a recent statement that, “Trade is a critical component to ending poverty and boosting shared prosperity.” The foregoing therefore suggests that developing countries have to trade their way out of poverty. For African countries to reduce poverty, they must increase their share of global trade. But how to bring this about is anything but easy.

Trade Challenge Sub Saharan Africa is reputed to be the least developed region of the world. The SSA region is also the least integrated into the global economy through trade. Since the 1960s, the share of sub Saharan Africa in international trade has become progressively smaller: less than 5% for all merchandise and 3% for agricultural products in 2010 (World Foundation for Agriculture and Rurality 2012). Trade within the SSA region is also dismal. Tariff and non-tariff barriers have been obstacles to intra-regional trade. Although the higher hurdles are non-tariff barriers, the ECOWAS goal of free movement of person and goods across member countries remains more of a wish than reality. Exports from Africa are mainly mineral resources and agricultural produce. With very low industrial base, the commodities are exported to other regions of the world and returned later to the continent as costlier finished products. This trade pattern results in “jobless growth” in the exporting countries when the prices of the commodities are high in the international market. The jobs that are created and sustained during commodity boom are mainly in the countries that “refine” and turn the commodities to finished products through industrial activities. But when prices of commodities are depressed, fiscal shocks are transmitted through the trade channel to the exporting countries, with severe human and economic implications. Apart from being pro-cyclical, trade in commodities is generally noted for volatility of current account positions and exertion of pressure on the exchange rate. The persistence of weak or negative growth in Europe and slower growth in China has dented economic growth in countries that depend very much on the export markets including Germany. But this does not build a case against active play in the export markets; it probably asserts the importance of domestic consumption as a cushion during a period of weaker exports. Export Diversification Having established the role of trade in reducing poverty on the one hand, and the deleterious effects of export of mainly primary products on the other, it therefore means that the way to reduce poverty in developing countries is through export diversification by boosting industrial activities. Gaining a mileage in export diversification does entail formalisation of in-

By Roberts Orya

formal trade. To achieve this, empowerment of small- and mediumscale enterprises (SMEs) is of utmost importance, both in itself and in gaining more share of global trade. The key problem with informal trade is that it deprives policymakers of the major tool of policymaking, which is data. Informal trade usually takes place off the radar, making data gathering and processing virtually impossible. But policymakers need to know areas where it is important to scale up positive results in trade activities. Understanding the obstacles that confront informal sector operators will aid intervention and will eventually prepare the operators toward making due contribution to fiscal policy by coming under the tax net. SME Incubation Evidently, the Administration of President Goodluck Jonathan has identified the SME sector as critical for boosting economic growth and job creation. On its part, the Nigerian Export – Import Bank (NEXIM Bank) is aware of the potentials of Nigerian SMEs. They can leverage domestic consumption, using access to over 170 million population to harness opportunities in foreign markets. Accordingly, our interventions are now geared towards such firms that we believe are relatively well-structured to be able to stabilize their operations and then foray into external markets. Several programmes under this Administration are incubating the SME segment for a major turnaround. In the traditional areas of providing infrastructure and electricity power, the country is seen to have made big leaps in policy formulation and execution, notwithstanding the milestones that are yet to be reached. Most recent perhaps is the launch of the N220 billion SME fund by the President in August, under the auspices of Central Bank of Nigeria. Specific programmes under the Agricultural Transformation Agenda, infrastructural development for ICT utilization, local content development in oil and gas, the programme of industrialization as encapsulated in the National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) and the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Programme (NIRP) all speak of the resolve of President Jonathan to use the instrumentality of state policy to mediate market performance and SME growth. On-going implementation of the programmes is concomitant with

job creation, which is vital for eradication of extreme poverty. Unmasking Poverty Poverty eradication has once again climbed to the top of global development policy agenda. The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have announced twin programmes of ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity by 2030. Feelers from post-2015 policy debates suggest that global development goals will focus on eradication of extreme poverty, going forward from next year. In the meantime, reports from some global institutions are making some important prescriptions on poverty reduction. A recent publication by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) – Trade Policies, Household Welfare and Poverty Alleviation: Case Studies from the Virtual Institute Academic Network – strongly associates trade and poverty, offering policymakers insights on what it called “pro-poor trade policies.” Another new literature which focuses on economic growth – a sine qua non for poverty reduction – reaffirms what we already know: that export diversification is the “gateway” to higher growth. To achieve export diversification however, Chris Papageorgiou, Lisa Kolovich and Sean Nolan, all of the IMF, identify manufacturing of high quality products as a necessity. They suggest therefore that the world has gone past the Chinese industrialization model of producing cheap and low quality products to unleash price competition in the export market. Accordingly, Chris and his colleagues listed human capital, infrastructure, institutional quality, financial deepening and proximity to markets as drivers of export diversification. These are very important recommendations which are familiar but which cannot be overemphasized. I will therefore run commentaries on them in the context of the Nigerian policy environment and readi-

ness for trade as I conclude this piece. Quality products: The Nigerian middle class and wealthy Nigerians are noted to be pretty sophisticated. As such, an industrial development model that manufactures cheap and inferior products would be mistargeted at Nigerians with means. Nowhere is this recognized more than in the cable manufacturing industry where Nigerian cables are noted for higher quality than some imported brands. Once known for exporting inferior products, China has been reforming its industrial policy to emphasize the manufacturing of high quality products. This is the direction Nigeria should go to ensure we can trade in the global market of today and not of yesterday. Human capital: Within a practical framework, multi-level support for human capital development has been a key goal of this Administration. School enrolment has improved generally. Specific programmes have targeted areas that had lagged behind due to past neglect. Tertiary education is being strengthened to be able to absorb more university candidates. Another area that has benefited from government’s programme of industrial development is vocational education. For example, there are ongoing efforts to develop skills that will support growth in the power sector and automobile production and assembly plants. Also, the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) embeds training for skill acquisitions in the areas of public works, including road construction and maintenance, railway rehabilitation and dredging. Infrastructure: The foregoing already highlights the fact that the country is moving in the right direction with infrastructure development. The pace may be slow, but there is no doubt that we will attain a tipping point sooner than later. At that point, it will become more obvious to global investors that so-called infrastructure defi-

‘Exports from Africa are mainly mineral resources and agricultural produce. With very low industrial base, the commodities are exported to other regions of the world and returned later to the continent as costlier finished products. This trade pattern results in “jobless growth” in the exporting countries when the prices of the commodities are high in the international market’

•Orya

ciency in Nigeria represents investment opportunities which are being harnessed. This is a key lesson we have taken from the implementation of the power sector reform. Institutional quality: The truth is evident that Nigeria is building and strengthening its institutions again. As a constitutional democracy, the governance framework is stable and predictable. Market regulators do their jobs without the fear of any political backlash. This is what has helped to put in place a sustainable path for the turnaround of our financial market, since the introduction of reforms in 2004. NEXIM Bank itself is an institution that has been revamped as part of government decision to strengthen public sector institutions and support private sector actors. Financial deepening: There is perhaps no other country or jurisdiction that has introduced more far-reaching reforms in its financial market than Nigeria over the past ten years. The proliferation of marginal banks has given way to stronger and sounder private sector financial institutions including “mega” banks. A poorly organized and unfunded pension system has given way for the contributory system that has exceeded N4.5 trillion ($24 billion) in pension asset. Yet regulation and innovation have continued to characterize the Nigerian financial system, including the capital market. Proximity to markets: Nigeria is not just a place to set up a business. The country is a big and growing market. Investing in Nigeria is tantamount to connecting to a big market. Nevertheless, the country is also well-linked to the sub-regional markets by all popular means – road, sea and air – except by rail. As the country continues to develop capacity for trade through economic diversification, it is expected that the poverty rate will continue to fall. •Roberts Orya is Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Export – Import Bank.

•Continued from page 28

Good, ugly faces of Lagos International Trade Fair in good form, we take it back and either refund your money or get you your preferred item. Essentially, with us here, our customer is king.” An exhibitor who identified simply as Mr Chuks, a dealer on security gadgets and close circuit television, said: “The trade fair is a major opportunity to advertise our products and that is what we are doing. So, we believe it will go well.” The China stand was booming as people went back and forth. This seems normal, judging from the influx of many Chinese traders in different markets, many of who have essentially conformed to the Nigerian system of trading. Many of them speak the popular Pidgin English, which makes it easy for

them to make headway. The Lebanese were also visible in their acts. The Fair, according to LCCI, is the biggest discount fair and Exhibition in Nigeria and, indeed, Africa. It continues to live up to its billing of the biggest trade fair in Nigeria and the Lagos Chamber has been organising the premier Lagos International Trade Fair in Nigeria since 1986 when it took over from the Federal Government of Nigeria which started it in 1981. It offers a unique exposition for manufacturers, suppliers, buyers and users of a wide range of goods and services as well as opportunities for investment and trade promotion. A household exhibitor simply called Charles said his outing is im-

pressive as visitors to his stand and patronage in terms of sales and prospective investors are encouraging. A Kenyan exhibitor who gave his name as Roy, whose company manufactures local beverages, said visitors had been enlightened on the efficacy of herbal products from the entrance by his team of sales representatives and are patronizsing his products. “Our products are made with Ganoderma Lucidium which is good for regulating blood level in the body.” He added that the population in the country attracted him to the fair. “Nigerian is highly populated and some of them who live in my country are sophisticated. I am

privileged today to be here seeing them in their home town and transacting business with them. Indeed, Nigeria is number one in Africa’s economy.’’ Some exhibitors, however, complained of small spaces given to them to exhibit their goods; some said their stalls were not constructed until the second day and while their colleagues were busy making money, they were waiting to set up their stands. At the Japanese pavilion, there was a beehive of activities with visitors and prospective investors trooping in and out. An upbeat Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria Ryuichi Shoji said he was experiencing patronage from individuals and establishments who know good products.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS

AGRICBUSINESS

Ernest Okhiria, a fish breeder, from the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR) cuts the image of a determined career farmer as he stands near huge ponds filled with fingerlings. Having recorded tremendous success in his chosen field, Okhiria, who is one of the advocates of fish farming, has been ecouraging others to take to fish farming. He promises anybody who ventures into the business least 30 per cent profit . To demonstrate this, he led The Nation squelching through waterlogged fields where he has ponds filled with tilapia, which were fished out of Badore,a small suburb of Lagois. The ponds form part of NIOMR’s initiative to push aquaculture – a successful concept – so it can provide an alternative to small farmers. Some of the ponds can harvest fish up to 250 grammes (dinner plate size) to fetch the best prices. According to him, the density of fish that can be maintained in a pond is largely related to the availability of feed. Revenue from fish farming, he noted, is capable of generating enough income for farmers not only for them to buy food and pay for their children’s school fees, but to buy the stocks and feed for the next six month cycle. The Head, Biotech Department, NIOMR, Dr. Adekunle Oresegun said the institute has introduced its aquaculture programme to farmers. With rapid urban population growth and economic development, he said new, profitable markets herald a promising future for aquaculture. Farmers, he said, take part in few weeks training programme that enable them learn basic fish farming, get technical advice and training, and link farmers to markets. In NIOMR, he said the business is explained from the simple point such that people are taught the right fish feed. Farmers, he said, also needed the know-how. The fish farming business, he added, is designed to spread the expertise and training that amature fish farmers need. Addressing a World Bank Implementation Support Team of the West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme (WAAPP) on inspection of WAAPP-sponsored projects at NIOMR, in Lagos, the institute’s Director of Research, Dr. Olusegun Oyewo said the institute is counting on the private sector to develop sustainable aquaculture. In Nigeria, aquaculture mainly involves the breeding of freshwater fish, including tilapia and catfish . According to him, their production is multi-level, ranging from industrial fish farms using high amount of inputs to small ponds managed by farmers and fertilized with compost. The stakeholders and production systems, he maintained, also vary, depending on the environment, the available human, technological and financial resources. Meanwhile, he said the institute is making efforts to develop its aquaculture sector to offset the current stagnation in wild catches and avoid having to increase fish imports. Several initiatives, he mentioned, are already underway. These include development of cost effective fishmeal from local aquatic resources (clupeids and lantern fish), promotion of commercialization of rice-cum fish farming in coastal wetlands for food production, development of cost effective technology for fish smoking and drying and growth enhancement of selected tilapia species through genetic improvement.

e-mail: agrobusiness@thenationonlineng.net

Fish farming holds the ace Aquaculture is becoming the leading income generation and dominant farming activity in Nigeria. The government, leveraging on latest technologies and refined methods which make fish farming highly efficient, reducing risk and improving profitability, is empowering farmers to take advantage of the opportunities therein, DANIEL ESSIET writes.

• Integrated rice fish farm at UI

On feeds, he said there is no existing substantial good quality local fishmeal for fish feed production thereby resulting to foreign fishmeal importation. To this end, he said the institute is determined to produce good quality local fishmeal from clupeids and lantern fish. As achievements, he said the institute has helped Nigerians to set up profitable and sustainable fish farms, enhance and diversify family farm resources and strengthen food security. The results, according to him, are quite convincing. He said, for instance, that the Institute has been able to rehabilitate four earthen ponds at Badore research station. The work includes perimeter fencing of the pond area and demarcation of individual ponds. Many fish farmers, he added, are involved, with positive impacts in terms of water management, diversification of agricultural systems and improved food security. These farms create national wealth and jobs and generate foreign exchange from exports, while also contributing to the dissemination of knowledge by promoting the development of small-scale aquaculture. While population growth, urbanisation and rising consumer purchasing power have led to high demand for fish, Oyewo indicated that the future of aquaculture seems to lie in the tremendous development of domestic markets and the setting of

relatively high fish prices. He reiterated the mandate of the institute to include genetic improvement of marine and brackish water fisheries and other aquatic resources in brackish and marine waters. He commended WAAPP for its support to the Institute that has led to clearing of project site, rehabilitation of fibre glass tanks and other research facilities, installation of water supply and drainage pipes and screening of project site for bio-security and control of predators. WAAPP, he said, is supporting NIOMR through equipment to train farmers in tilapia production. Activities include conducting workshops with producers, demonstrating “best practice” techniques in fishpond management and providing follow-up extension and advisory services, and also promoting farmer-to-farmer extension. Farmers , who previously engaged in fish trading and processing are now entering the fish value chain as fish farmers. Responding the WAAPP Regional Task Team Leader, World Bank,Dr Abdoulaye Toure said he is impressed with the efforts made by NIOMR to improve fish farming. He observed however, that attention has to be given to small and medium enterprise (SME) fish farms. So far, the few SME farms that exist are geared towards local

•Chikwendu

markets, either rural or urban. However, like SMEs in other sectors, they are impeded by lack of access to funding, inputs and trained personnel. Thus, while aquaculture plays an important role in socio-economic development in some countries, there is still considerable scope for development in terms of food and nutritional security, job creation and generating added value for farmers. According to him, aquaculture development is largely achieved by successfully encouraging SMEs. The National Coordinator, WAAPP Nigeria, Prof Damian Chikwendu said small-scale fish farming is seen as a way to boost economic prospects, not just in the South West, but throughout the

The projects focused on development of a viable and sustainable integrated aquaculture systems with agriculture production for rural poor farmers. It is specifically addressing the challenges related to decreases in captured fisheries and the reduction in rice and poultry production in three West and Central African countries of Nigeria, Cameroon and Sierra Leone

country. He said WAAPP promotes aquaculture as a pathway for increasing household income among fish traders, and has supported NIOMR in training local farmers in fish farming. While at the University of Ibadan (UI), the World Bank team visited its fish-rice-poultry integrated farm sponsored by the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development. Two sustainable integrated pond-based aquaculture projects involved fish, rice and poultry production and fish, rice and pig production. The projects focused on development of a viable and sustainable integrated aquaculture systems with agriculture production for rural poor farmers. It is specifically addressing the challenges related to decreases in captured fisheries and the reduction in rice and poultry production in three West and Central African countries of Nigeria, Cameroon and Sierra Leone. Addressing the World Bank team, Professor Bamidele Omitoyin of the Department of Fisheries and Management, said the university has been able to make rice farming and fish thrive in the same pound using an approach that ensure optimal results. The water from the fish pond feeds the rice. Feeds for the fish are made from locally available materials composed by the university . He said the university has been able to establish a breeding pond to complement the efforts of those owned by farmers. There is also a poultry house where the waste is made to run through pipes into the fish ponds. He said the poultry waste is an essential and valuable component of plant fertilizer. To tackle water shortage, he said the UI farm has a storage tank that supplies water to all the ponds, including the hatcheries and a separate pond for the fingerlings. He said the university has tackled most of the challenges of farmers and that aquaculture is set to be a leading income generation and dominant farming activity. According to him, the latest technologies and refined methods have made fish farming highly efficient, reducing risk and improving profitability. The university, he added, is already involved with numerous projects across the African continent. One of the major problems with fish farmers is high cost of fish feeds. This is because most of the commercial feeds today are imported and very expensive. Omitoyin said there is no way they can break even with the use of such feed. To reverse this, he said scientists from the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, UI have been working on quality, low-cost, efficient feeds that farmers will have access to that the cost would not be more than N220 per kilo. Using this feed, cost of production, he said, will reduce and farmers’ profit margin will increase. He said the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, UI anchors West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF/WECARD) projects for integration of rice, fish and poultry and piggery. The projects, according to him, has been highly successful. Omitoyin appealed to the Oyo State government to send fish processors particularly women, fish dealers and fish farmers to the department for training for three to four days on how to process fish to remove benzo-a pyrene that induces cancer.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

AGRICBUSINESS

Stakeholders push for passage of cassava bread policy

HEAD of the stakeholders’ meeting to consider the draft policy on cassava bread in Abuja next Monday, Technical Adviser on Cassava Value Chain to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Oluwatoyin Adetunji has reiterated the determination of the Federal Government to promote investment in agriculture and ensure the involvement of cassava enterprises in the sector’s transformation process. Addressing a training on high quality cassava flour (HQCF) production management in Abeokuta, Mrs Adetunji said government and stakeholders are pushing for the passage of the Cassava Bread Bill . This, she said, prompted the sensitization meeting of stakeholders in Abuja. According to her, the stakeholders’ meeting will bring operators and the policy think-tanks together to discuss the draft policy on cassava inclusion. She said the meeting will discuss the draft Cassava Bread Bill, which will eventually be passed to the National Assembly for passage into law. She said that the eventual passage of the bill would be a considerable

achievement for the industry. The proposed bill was on the 10 per cent cassava flour inclusion in bread baking. Mrs Adetunji reiterated that the government is focusing its attention at repositioning the cassava industry by empowering farmers to utilise technology, economies of scale and production zones. To this end, she said there are ongoing efforts to improve the capacities and skills of master bakers and processors so they can

ried out assessment of yields recorded this year, involving individual crop associations, thus arriving at the conclusion of 50 per cent increase in output. The secretary attributed the success to early distribution of farm inputs by the Federal Government through its Growth Enhancement Support Scheme (GESS), as well as abundant rainfall recorded this year. He urged the state and federal government to increase their support to farmers for Nigeria to attain self-sufficiency in food production.

‘Fish farmers can help contain spread of Ebola’

LARGE scale fish farmer in Bauchi State, Alhaji Haruna Bako, has said that with adequate financial support from government, fish farmers could play a role in the struggle to contain the spread of Ebola disease. He said in Bauchi that increased fish production could lower prices and make them affordable to people, thereby shifting attention from the dreaded “bush-meat”, to fish. “With the current threat of Ebola disease, consumption trend would shift from bush-meat to fish because of affordability, and that development in itself is healthy,” he said. He however, lamented that large scale fish farming is capital intensive, hence the need for government to come to their rescue for them to remain in business. According to him, over 100 fish

farmers in Bauchi State have been forced to quit the trade due to its highly demanding nature and lack of enabling environment. “We are faced with harsh conditions, such as lack of extension services, capital to acquire lands, construct facilities, buy enough fingerlings and other inputs. “A lot of people are interested in fish farming, but when they invest huge amount and start operating at a loss, they quit,” he said. He said that if government could advance loans to the farmers and monitor their business to ensure that such monies were recouped, fish production in the state and the country at large, would increase. “If loans are granted to the farmers and they remain in business, they would not only meet the protein needs of the country, but also create job opportunities for youths,” he said.

Supercomputer to improve weather forecasts for farmers

ARMERS would soon benefit from improved severe weather warnings and better long-term forecasts, thanks to a £97m government supercomputer. The weather ranks as one of the biggest topics of conversation among farmers and it has arguably become even more common in recent years due to the effect of climate change.

is to raise the income and living standards of farmers. With more processing factories, she said the cassava industry will gain more productivity and added values. She said the ministry is ready to support farmers with cassava seeds with high levels of productivity, as well as technologies and equipment for increasing efficiency in the preservation and processing of the commodity.

•Cassava processors at work

Benue farmers record bumper harvest N assessment by the Benue State chapter of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), indicated that farmers in the state recorded bumper harvest this year. The State Secretary, Mr Sam Kwa’na, said in Makurdi, the Benue State capital,+ that the yields recorded this year surpassed that of last year by about 50 per cent. He said that apart from the bumper harvest recorded in his personal farm, other farmers also recorded similar success. He explained that AFAN had car-

By Daniel Essiet

organise production to boost productivity and product quality. She stressed that government will try to set standards and regulations to ensure bakers and processors comply with the inclusion requirement in cassava bread production. Mrs Adetunji stressed that the agricultural transformation agenda was aimed at developing a strong sector and produce more products. Its bigger target, according to her ,

The notoriously volatile British weather makes it difficult to forecast and at times it can seem easier to predict the week’s winning lottery numbers. Erratic weather patterns experienced by the country, especially in the past five to 10 years, has cost millions of pounds in the loss of livestock and crops.

She advised cassava processors to unite and work together so that they could benefit from any initiative the government would want to undertake. Speaking during the occasion, the Managing Director,Yejide Falode Agro Allied Industry,Mrs Yejide Falode supported the inclusion of cassava flour in bread and other forms of confectionery as part of efforts to improve food security and the livelihoods of farmers. She said improving the use of the crop, and scaling up/out processing technologies would help local production. She sees the inclusion as a major step that would address food insecurity, create jobs especially for the rural youth, and improve incomes. Her concern, however was that the former administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo had first ordered inclusion of cassava in bread, but the crusade failed when he left the government as there was no law in the country to back that pronouncement. As a result, she said many investors that went into cassava production business got their fingers burnt as the ideal of high quality cassava flour inclusion in wheat was jettisoned as soon as his tenure ended.

‘Why farmers, herders need help’

ITH seeds, fertilizer and animal feed rolling out to farming families,the Federal Government has been urged to address the needs of herders in the North whose livelihoods have been left in tatters as a result of hostilities. An expert with a research institute, Dr Ademola Adeyemo said this would help them to recover reinforce food production. With increasing insecurity across the country, Adeyemo said nomadic farmers need to be supported else the food security situation could worsen. According to him, thousands of

farmers have been forced to flee their lands or have their assets destroyed or seized, while others have seen markets for their crops disappear, or have sold off livestock, supplies and equipment to make ends meet. As a result of these disruptions, he said harvest was severely compromised, reducing food availability across the country. This situation, he noted, could worsen as families continue to lose productive assets and income opportunities, or find themselves forced to sell their livestock and flee terrorists attacks. Following this, he said thouands

of vulnerable Nigerians are in dire need of help to restore their livelihood. He urged the government to support herders with animal feed, adding that their needs are immense and that failure to provide that help in a timely manner will have major and lasting repercussions on the agriculture sector. He said government’s assistance will help families keep their livestock alive, protect strategic crops, promote quick-impact food production such as poultry raising and small-scale gardening, and create vital income opportunities.

Jigawa rice farmers seek credit facilities

ICE farmers in Gatafa and Ganuwa-kuka villages of Auyo Local Government Area of Jigawa State have decried their inability to access credit facilities to expand their farming business. The farmers made the complaint when they received a team of officials from the West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme (WAPP), who were in the state to supervise some projects in the state. A farmer, Malam Garba Danbaushe, told the team that their inability to access loans from the banks and government agencies was a setback to them in the area. Danbaushe explained that in a bid to meet the financial needs of the farmers, the farmers’ association usually contributes money during their weekly meetings to assist poorer farmers. “We are only aware that there are banks and government agencies and intervention programmes like SURE-P and You-Win that assist farmers, but we don’t have access to them,’’ he said. He appealed to banks and other government agencies to make loans and other credit facilities available to them. The farmer commended the WAAPP for the new Faro 44 rice seeds it provided for outgrower farmers like him. According to him, he had harvested 29 bags from the new seeds as against 13 bags he used to harvest

from other varieties. Danbaushe said though he faced some challenges in transplanting the rice plants obtained from the seeds, he was, however, pleased with his increased production. Another rice farmer, Mrs Abua Shugaba, appealed to WAAPP to provide them with other rice processing technologies. Shugaba said that the local way of threshing rice was no longer convenient for them.

The team’s task leader from the World Bank, Dr Abdouaye Troare, said that he was impressed with the farmers’ efforts on the outgrowing of improved rice seeds. Troare urged the farmers to make the seeds available to other outgrower farmers in the state. He added that the WAAPP officers were in the state to monitor and evaluate the impact of new improved seeds of various crops made available to farmers in the state.

EADP trains 15,000 farmers

HE Edo-North Zonal Manager, Edo Agricultural Development Programme (EADP), Mr Jolly Ileaboya, said no fewer than 15,000 farmers have been trained in modern agriculture by the state government. Ileaboya disclosure this in an interview inAuchi. He said that the farmers were trained in crops, livestock, fisheries, cassava and rice cultivation, as well as food processing. The EADP manager said that the beneficiaries were drawn from the six Local Government Areas that made up the Edo-North Senatorial District. “Basically, we service farmers in this locality through our extensionbased activities. We go to the field to teach farmers modern technology in farming in all aspects of agriculture, including crops, livestock, fisheries and food processing. No fewer than 15,000 farmers have had access to this training to make the farmers improve on agricultural production. It is also to make sure that farmers have a better chance than what they used to have before in terms of production,’’ he said. The EADP manager said that the state government had embarked on extensive cultivation of cassava across the state to meet the needs of bread flour millers in the country. “We have this Cassava Transformation Agenda (CTA) of the Federal Government and we have keyed into it. The state government is actually working with farmers to enable them to achieve this laudable achievement. And a lot of farmers have been able to benefit from the facility through the quality of extension services we give to them in terms of technology, among other things,” he added.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 2014

COMMENTARY

ONOLOGUE What can one say of a man who fixes his eyes on the sun but does not see it? Rather, he sees a chorus of flaming seraphim announcing a paroxysm of despair. That is the similitude of a country called Nigeria a country in which the formation of the head and the body of her populace is a paradox of inexplicable nature. And her existence to this stage is a miracle of inestimable nuisance. Or how can one classify a situation in which some parents were weeping and wailing over the mass murder or maiming of their children by the evil insurgents called Boko Haram somewhere in the Northeast of the country while some so called leaders were jubilating and chorusing political songs in the capital city of the same country all within an interval of 24 hours? Today’s article is motivated by the recent dedication of a library to the memory of Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto. That historic dedication was a great reminder of a great past in Nigeria which the present generation seems to have consigned to the debris of history. The opening monologue is a mere digression meant to reflect the current mood of the nation. This column will never be tired of quoting Arab poets because it is in the residue of those their poems that wisdom can be found. Thus, one of such poets is hereby quoted again in relation to topic at hand. It goes thus: “Eight conditions of life are inevitable for man. And there is no single living human being without the eight. These are: happiness and sadness; meeting and parting; fortune and misfortune; then, sickness and healthiness.” When, as a human being, you are not happy, you must be sad. When you are not meeting with some people, you must be parting with some. When you are not fortunate in a venture you must be unfortunate in it if momentarily. And when you are not healthy you must be sick or ill.

Conditions of Life

Happiness, meeting, fortune and healthiness, all may seem to show the positive side of life just as their abstract counterparts may reflect its negative side. But the reality is that not everything that glitters can be gold. Happiness may be Pyrrhic. Meeting may cause trouble. Fortune may be shortlived. And healthiness may engender restiveness. Incidentally, however, it takes both the positive and the negative sides of life to keep the world of man going. Life is neither static nor rigid. Rather, it randomly changes like weather. If it brings you happiness today, do not expect it to remain so tomorrow. Life is like a horse. You can ride it only if it surrenders itself to you. But as soon as it becomes tired of you and beckons to a new rider, you automatically become its own horse and it may then ride you to death.

Sources of happiness

In life, happiness is not about money or position. Neither is it about power or governance. Each and every one of these is transient even as the life of its custodian is ephemeral. As a matter of fact, there is no cause of happiness that cannot be a cause for sadness. The only known source of genuine happiness from the primordial to the modern time is contentment guaranteed by conscience. And that is the only passport on which the visa of paradise may be issued. Without contentment based on conscience, no one can appreciate the bounties of God.

Past leaders

Looking at the phenomena of human life critically, one may conclude that human world is depreciating geometrically. The men of yesteryear were greater than those of today. Their lives were more qualitative. Their thoughts were richer. Their intentions were purer. Their gazes were more visionary. Their dispositions were more human. It is upon the foundation of their thoughts and deeds that today’s technological pyramid is built. Yet, they did not allow their reasoning to be driven by the material life of their time. Fearing for their hereafter, some disciples of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) once asked him a probing question about the quality of their lifestyle saying in a quivering voice thus: “Dear Prophet! The

FEMI ABBAS ON femabbas756@gmail.com 08115708536

On memory lane

•The late Bello wealthy ones amongst us seem to have gone to the world beyond with all the existing rewards. They worshiped Allah as we are worshiping Him. They fasted as we are fasting today. Yet they were giving in charity, huge amounts of resources according to the sizes of their wealth. What is then left for us, if the paradise will be determined by the amount of our rewards?”

Exemplary Hadith

Replying, the Prophet said: “Has Allah not endowed you with what can fetch you the ticket to paradise? Every glorification of Allah you chant is charity; every praising of Allah you engage in during days and nights is charity; every deification of Allah you do in thought or in action is charity; encouraging good deed is charity; admonishing against evil is charity; even, mating with your wives is charity”. Piqued by the last assertion, the disciples asked the Prophet in unison: “Haba! Dear Prophet, how can mating with one’s wife fetch ticket to paradise?” The Prophet in a jovial tone but serious mood retorted thus: “Don’t you know that mating in the manner of an adulterer can fetch hell (because it is evil deed)? Thus, mating with legitimate wives can fetch paradise (because it is a good deed).”

Nigeria’s founding fathers

In semblance of the above, the great fathers of Nigeria’s independence left a legacy that can be called a footprint on the sands of time. By whatever standard they are measured today, the late Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello; Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa; the first Premier of Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his counterpart of the Eastern Region, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as well as Mallam Aminu Kano and Chief SLA Akintola were all exemplary in their styles of life, their personal weaknesses notwithstanding. Their legacy is a fortune which amazingly turned into misfortune in the hands of the military rascals who succeeded them. Thus, the great hope which those fathers had embedded into our destiny became colonised and turned into personal property by their political heirs. Were those great fathers to wake up from their graves today and see what has become of their sweat, they would just shake their heads in sorrow and return quietly into their graves without comments.

‘Give us a leader from amongst us whose piety will be the basis of his leadership; whose conscience will be the scale of his conduct; whose words will match his deeds and whose temperament will check his greed and avarice’ Dream and despair

It is rather a luxury that those of us who were children during Nigeria’s independence can still talk of hope even if in retrospect. Neither the children of today nor those of tomorrow have the benefit of such a luxury. If the future generations of Nigerians will lay claim to any heritage from the current leadership, it is a paroxysm of despair. And when the morrow of a country depends on despair rather than hope what else should be expected other than ruins? Against our initial prayer and wish as a people, our country became a lily by the mossy stone in recent years. At the dawn of Nigeria’s 4th Republic in 1999, an unexpected bull strayed into our national china shop and before we knew it the falcon had lost contact with the falconer. Things fell apart and the centre became the seat of the Lucifer. Thus, a bud of thorny mistletoe grew wild under the armpit of a magnificent almond tree thereby making normal access to the tree impossible.

Wishes and intentions

Incidentally, most human prayers are erroneously based on wish out of sheer ignorance. But since unlike humans, Allah judges by intention and not by wishful action He granted us our prayer and not our wish. And that was because He knew that wish is like a whirlwind which could blow in any direction and blind the wisher. As our Creator, He knows what is best for us and the right time for it. He is too kind to be indifferent to our plight and too wise to make mistake. Now, having realised that we need a new round of prayer, we must learn not to take wish for intention in prayer again. If our prayers seemed unaccepted in the past we must re-examine ourselves. “God does not change the situation of a nation unless the people of such a nation change their ‘negative’ way of life to a positive one”. Q. 13:11

Thanking God

We thank You oh Allah, for taking us through decades of undeserved hardship imposed on us by a political clique of evil agents in the name of rulers. During those unbearable decades, many people lost their lives, many lost their jobs and many more lost their wealth without any hope of a bet-

ter tomorrow. At the instance of evil policies and vindictive attitudes of those we call leaders, Nigerian youths have become wild and heartless, parents have become helpless and frustrated, families have become dismembered, patriots have become rebels, genuine businesses have folded up thereby paving way for dubious ones, innocent men and women have been viciously hounded in jail or wallowing in penury even as friends have become foes.

Painful reminder

Shortly after the commencement of the current republic, the great serenity expected to come with democracy vanished into thin air while the future became bleak even for those who should ordinarily have a stake in it with confidence and hope. Except for Your grace and mercy Oh Allah, no one knew what the next day would bring at that time. It was one seemingly tortuous but undeclared war, the end of which only a few could hope to see. But by your grace we endured it all and waited patiently to bid the demonic sphinx that cast that spell on Nigeria adieu forever. Why won’t we thank You once again for granting us that wonderful gesture. The year 1999 started with a rain of hope but a vicious rain maker thought that what we deserved was storm rather than rain and opened the furnace of tempest on us. Yet, we survived it all. When we became like a cow without a tail, it was only your grace that scared away the flies from feasting on our wound. Your promise has never been in vain. Thank You for bailing us out of a mental and psychological gulag into which we were then hounded by the new-colonialists of those days who were masquerading in the cloak of democrats. We shall forever be grateful to You as long as we remain alive. Incidentally, however, while we were glorifying You for giving us a fresh opportunity to dream and expect the transformation of our dream into a positive reality, a new calamity struck. The symbol of that dream was suddenly taken away from us like a star that turned into a meteor. And, now, we are back in a ship being piloted by a sailor who neither knows his destination nor possesses a compass with which to find his way. Yet, we know that you do not do anything without reason and whatever comes the way of man from You is in the best interest of man even if he does not know it.

New Appeal

Once again, we want to appeal to you Oh God to please equip us with diving suits with which to swim across the ocean of life as the present ship is heading for the rock. Give us a leader from amongst us whose piety will be the basis of his leadership; whose conscience will be the scale of his conduct; whose words will match his deeds and whose temperament will check his greed and avarice. Select a leader for us who will be meek and affable and not one whose ambition will be so blind as to render him desperate for power at all costs. Choose a leader for us Oh God who will be disciplined enough to know that leadership is a privilege and not a right and therefore remember that he will one day vacate the office of power and recall his achievements or otherwise in quiet retrospect. Bless us with a leader who will not promise us light and spend our hard-earned billions of naira to throw us into a permanent dungeon of darkness. We pray for a leader who will not promise us employment and use our resources to render us jobless (husbands and wives) through deliberate impoverishing policies after selling our national heritage to himself and his cronies. Appoint a leader for us who will not grant a paltry salary pay rise to an insignificant percentage of the citizenry and then turn round to inflict unbearable hardship on the overwhelming majority of the populace through unjustifiable price increases on our social amenities and thereby further aggravate poverty in the land. We are at your door oh! Allah, raising up our hands to You in prayer and placing our final hope on You without an iota of doubt. To You alone we pray and from You alone we expect mercy. AL-FATIHAT!

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

•Former President of Mozambique Joacuim Chissano (third left) cutting the tape to inaugurate the Bahago Drive Road, to mark the 59th birthday of Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu in Minna... on Wednesay. With him are Aliyu (right), his deputy Ahmed Musa Ibeto (second left) and Emir of Minna, Umar Faruk.

•L-R: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Suleiman Abba, showing the Nigeria Police Force Human Rights Practice Manual during a meeting with Security Stakeholders and Senior Police Officers in Abuja on ...Wednesday. With him are DIG Logistics and Supply, Mr Mamman Tsafe and DIG Training, Mr Saliu Hashimu

•Chairman, Lagos State Council of Nigerian Union Journalist (NUJ), Mr Deji Elumoye (second left) presenting a N250,000 cheque to a beneficiary of the NUJ Education grant, Mr. Akinwale Kasali a student of Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ) at the union’s congress in Lagos. With them are secretary Mrs. Bimbo Oyetunde and Vice Chairman, Jimoh Babatunde.

•L-R: Director, Occupational Health and Safety, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Adeyemo Layeni; Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Wale Ahmed; his Physical Planning and Urban Development counterpart Mr Toyin Ayinde; Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mrs. Dominga Odebunmi; Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Yewande Adeshina and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, Dr. Aderemi Desalu at the Lagos State Safety Week at Oriental Hotel, Lagos. PHOTO: OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL

•L-R: General Manager, Information Technology, National Health Insurance Scheme(NHIS), Mr Femi Akingbade; Oracle US Agent in Nigeria, Mr Matthew Igbalajobi and Executive Secretary, NHIS Dr Femi Thomas at the Oracle US office, during a digitalisation strategy conference to actualise universal health insurance coverage in Nigeria.

•L-R: Head of Information, Public Complaint Commission(PCC) Mr Abayomi Bukola, Head of Operations, Ajose Akinwumi and Commissioner Funso Olukoga, when the PCC team visited PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID The Nation in Lagos...yesterday

•LAGBUS Managing Director Mr Babatunde Disu (middle) with Female trainees at an induction for First Set of Female Bus Captains in Lagos...on Wednesday

•Deputy Manager, Human Resources/Admin, Skipper Electricity Limited, Payal Prashal (left) being assisted by General Manager, GTA Engineering Limited, Subramanian (second right) to present drugs and mosquito treated nets during Skipper’s free health service for the public. With them is Ikorodu Rotary Club’s president Akin Ogunolu.

•Managing Director,Glaxosmithkline, Mr Lekan Asuni(left), Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Ado Muhammed and Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa the World Pneumonia Day, held at Transcorp Hilton Abuja...on PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE Wednesday.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

SOCIETY

A one-stop shop in the heart of Ikeja, Lagos, Adam and Eve, welcomed customers and associates to the flag-off of its Christmas sales. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

Adam and Eve fetes clients

HRISTMAS is around the corner and many have begun warming up for the season. Among them is Adam and Eve gifts shop on Isaac John Street, Ikeja. It has long stood as one of the unique household shops in the area Last Sunday, the outfit not only gathered its clients to light up the season, it also treated them to good food, choice assorted drinks, and comedy. Many of them came from far ends of Lagos to identify with them. It was in a relaxing atmosphere. The street lost its weekend serenity. Posh cars lined both sides as socialites from all walks of came to be counted. On entry, they made straight for the shopping arena. Polished with style and class, it is stocked with a wide range of household equipment and gift items. For those who made purchases, they got 10 percent discount on every item. Chairman of the outfit Mr Lanre Ogunlesi and his wife, Dupe (aka Adam and Eve) were on ground to welcome guests and give them a tour, showcasing their newest stocks and designs, flaunting the slogan of the shop Dining-Giving-Living. Mrs Ogunlesi, when asked what makes them different from the others, said: “The difference is the quality we offer because here we are taking shopping to another level.” They were proud of their Upside-Down Christmas Tree. The organisers explained that: “In the 7th century, it was believed that St Boniface while staying in Thuringia, a town in Germany, took the help of the triangular fir tree to represent the Holy Trinity made up

of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. “By the 12th century, it became a custom, especially in Europe to hang Fir trees upside down from the ceiling to symbolise the Holy Trinity. The Christmas tree was also considered to be the symbol of Christianity. “Presently, the trend of hanging a Christmas tree has changed, because the tip of the Christmas tree is made to point towards Heaven.” Outside, chairs and tables were arranged. It was celebration time and the older women were in their element, laughing to comedian Julius Agwu’s jokes. They also stole the show when they took to the dance floor as Aka, a live band, dished out music and Christmas melodies. Agwu also complemented their songs with his music. The high point of the event was the lighting of the Christmas tree. It was done at the count of 10. The arena was colourfully beautified with frills depicting the season. From the rooftop to the floor and the walls, there was something depicting the herald of its sales and a countdown to Christmas. Present at the event were: Chief Executive Officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals Dr Stella Okoli; Managing Direcor of Macmillian Publishers Mrs Francesca Emmanuel; renowned scholar Prof Adebayo Williams; CEO of Seka Ltd Mr Akintunde Ogunmekan and his wife, who is the Senior Marketing Manager of Great Nigerian Insurance Plc Mrs Kemi Ogunmekan; publisher of Encomium magazine Kunle Bakare and his Yes magazine counterpart Azuh Arinze, among others.

•Mr Ogunlesi and his wife, Dupe

•Prof Williams (left) and Dr Bayo Taiwo

•From right: Dr Okoli; Evelyn Obioha and Madam Kate Kitchen CEO, Uju Modebelu •Mrs Jumoke Asiodu and her sister Mrs Emmanuel

•Arinze (right) and Bakare

•Captain Kehinde Smith flanked by CEO Citimix Yemi Okanlawon (left) and Mr Awosika

•Mr Ogunmekan and his wife, Kemi

•Dr Muyiwa Ogunyemi (right) and Chief Ladi Taiwo PHOTOS: NNEKA NWANERI

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

SOCIETY

STAKEHOLDERS’ FORUM ON PERMANENT VOTERS’ CARD ORGANISED BY LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

•From left: Lagos State Governor Mr Babatunde Fashola; Secretary to the State Government Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule and Mr Fuad Oki

•From right: Deputy Governor Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Senator ‘Gbenga Ashafa and LASIEC chairman Justice AbdulFatai Adeyinka

•Chief Imam of Lagos Sheikh Garuba Akinola Ibrahim

•First Lagos Military Governor Brig-Gen Mobolaji Johnson (left) and Senator Anthony Adefuye

•Commissioner for Education Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye (left) and Erelu Abiola Dosunmu

•Oyinlomo Danmole

•Iyaloja General of Lagos Mrs Folasade Tinubu-Ojo (left) and Alhaja Ramdat Okunola

•Cross-section of traditional rulers

•Former Head of Operation and Logistics, Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) Alhaji Musibau Oyefeso flanked by his wife, Alhaja Faimat, a retired First Bank Plc Senior Manager (left) and Mrs Adebowale

CONJUGAL BLISS

•From right: Former CONFERENCE 57 chairman, Akeem Sulaiman; ex-Secretary-General Hakeem Bamgbola; former BoT member Abiodun Mafe and Sola Adekunle PHOTOS: RAHMAN SANUSI

COMMISSIONING

•Mr Bright Odaro and former Miss Amarachukwu Ezeobi during their wedding at NTA Hall, TV Road Benin City, Edo State

•From left: Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Iyalode of Lagos Hajia Fatima Bintu Tinubu and former CokerAguda council chairman, Mrs Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe during Senator Tinubu’s commissioning of projects executed by Akinyemi-Obe’s administration

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

BUSINESS EXTRA ‘NIIMP’ ll help fix infrastructure’

HE Federal Govern ment has said the Ni gerian Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP) will help to fix the huge infrastructure rot at all levels of government, particularly at the grassroots. Minister for National Planning, Dr Abubakar Sulaiman, who spoke yesterday in Abuja,also said about $3 trillion (or N485 trillion) would be required to deliver quality infrastructure across various sectors of the economy based on sector growth strategies, outcome targets, and international benchmarks. He listed the key sectors cap-

From Nduka Chiejina (Asst. Editor), Abuja

tured in the NIIMP blueprint for implementation over the 30-year period as, energy, transport, water, education, agriculture, mining, housing and regional development, Information Communication and Technology (ICT) and social infrastructure, among others. He gave a breakdown of the capital outlay required for the sectors to include $1 trillion for the energy sector representing 33 per cent of the projected total investment outlay while the transport sector would get $775 billion or 25 per cent.

Dangote, Elumelu seek local participation in oil industry

• From left: Chairman, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode; Group Managing Director, Mr. Herbert Wigwe; Dr. Okonjo-Iweala; Senior Counsellor and Director, Africa/Middle East Department, Institute of International Finance (IIF), George Abed and President, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, at the summit in Lagos ... yesterday.

Economic slowdown affecting African economies, says Okonjo-Iweala

HE slowdown in global economic activities and the end in the easing in the United States will affect sub-Saharan Africa’s economy and other regions’, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has said. The minister, who spoke yesterday at the IIF Financial Summit organised by Access Bank in Lagos, said events unfolding over the last six months have cast a shadow on global economic recovery in the aftermath of the 2008/09 financial crisis. Speaking on the theme: Global outlook and implications for African economies, she explained that the Washingtonbased think tank Global Financial Integrity finds that at least 60 per cent of the nearly

By Collins Nweze

$1 trillion in illicit flows from the continent was due to trade mispricing and international tax invasion. “So, one can only imagine the boost to revenues if this practice can be curbed. This is why we have asked GFI to carry out a study on Nigeria. This, together with the work being done by McKinsey to strengthen tax collection, will go a long way to support our efforts to drive revenues up. Based on the results of the first few months of the year, I’m fairly confident that additional tax revenues from these efforts will surpass the US$500m previously estimated for 2014,” she said. Mrs Okonjo-Iweala said many African countries de-

pend on commodity exports as the main source of revenue. “According to statistics from The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the ratio of commodity exports to total merchandise exports is very high in several African countries – and to give a few examples, the ratio ranges from 60 per cent in South Africa, to 89 per cent in Zambia and Ghana, 96 per cent in DR Congo, and so on. In Nigeria, our crude oil exports alone accounted for about 83 per cent of the value of our total exports in 2013, according to our National Bureau of Statistics,” he said. She explained that based on last year’s data, about 70 per cent of sub-Saharan Africa’s merchandise exports goes to countries or zones that are

Mark challenges research institutes ENATE President, them perform crediton economy able David Mark yesterday ably.

took stock of the ailing economy and submitted that only planned, deliberate and sustained efforts in research and technology could rescue the nation from economic down turn. Mark challenged research institutes and tertiary institutions in Nigeria to rise up to the occasion by rolling out a blueprint that would get the economy out of the woods. He spoke at a ceremony where he received the Champion of Medical Research in Nigeria Honours award from the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Asst. Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Abuja. Mark said no nation desirous of development could afford to undermine research. According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President, Paul Mumeh, Mark said medical research is key to national development. To this end, he assured that the National Assembly would continue to make adequate budgetary allocation to research institutes to en-

He appreciated the award and promised that the recognition would spur him to offer more services to the nation. Presenting the award to the Senate President, the DirectorGeneral of NIMR, Prof. Innocent Ujah, said the honour was in recognition of Mark’s contributions to medical research in Nigeria. Ujah noted the efforts of the Senate President at promoting medical excellence , bringing to an end the 55 days Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) industrial action as well as the reinstatement of the disengaged resident doctors, among others.

NCC urges telcos on promotion of smartphones

HE Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Eugene Juwah, has urged telecommunication service providers to promote the use of smartphones, adding that it was unacceptable that a country with 133 million subscribers only has 12million smartphones in use. Speaking yesterday at 76th Edition of Telecoms Consumer Parliament (TCP) and the second edition of the repackaged TCP at Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, with Data Service Delivery: The way for-

By Lucas Ajanaku

ward as its theme, he lamented that the disproportionate figure between the number of smartphones in the country and teledensity was worrisome. He urged the telcos to help drive the use of smartphones in the country. He said the world is changing in ‘our eyes and we seem not to be realising it. The banking sector is a sector that will be most affected’ by the data revolution that will sweep across the, adding that it will eliminate branch bank-

ing and allow the road side mechanic who is afraid of going to the bank to do banking transaction on the mobile phone. Juwah said it is a known fact that Nigeria is the fastest growing telecoms market in Africa since the deregulation of the industry, adding that the transformation of telecom industry has led to a phenomenal increase in foreign direct investments (FDIs), employment, and efficient business transactions among others. This, he said, emphasised the importance of ICT in the development path of a nation.

experiencing challenges at the moment; the US (10.01 per cent), Europe (26.5 per cent), Japan (three per cent), China (21 per cent), Brazil (three per cent), and India (seven per cent). The minister said a marked slowdown in these markets would weaken demand for commodity exports from the region, with immediate negative spillover eûects on our external and ûscal positions.

WO of Nigeria’s big gest entrepreneurs, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President Dangote Group and Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman, Heirs Holdings, have called for more indigenous participation in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. They spoke at the 32nd Annual International Conference of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), in Lagos. They said the involvement of indigenous institutions and players would augur well for the economy and sued for a deliberate and systematic approach to the involvement of Nigerian entrepreneurs in the oil and gas industry. “I was encouraged to come into the oil and gas industry by someone who believes

deeply in Nigerian local capacity,” said Elumelu in his opening remarks. He explained that localisation will impact positively on the sector just like it happened with banking. “Many years ago it was the general belief that only expatriates could own and run banks in Nigeria. Today, however, the top five banks are owned and run indigenously and we need the same to happen in the oil and gas sector,” he said. Elumelu’s pan-African investment company is investing in the financial services, oil and gas, healthcare power and hospitality sectors. He said his company has ambitious plans in the oil and gas industry, adding that he is looking forward to the day when Nigeria will have the capacity to refine its petroleum on its own shores.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

MONEYLINK

NDIC pays N6.82b to depositors

HE Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has paid N6.82 billion to 528,277 insured depositors of the 48 deposit money banks (DMBs) inliquidation, its Managing Director, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim has said. Speaking yesterday at the NDIC Special Day at the ongoing Lagos International Trade Fair, he said it followed the revocation of the operating licences of about 48 insured DMBs in 1994, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2003 and 2006 as well as 103 Microfinance Banks (MfBs) in 2010, 83 last year, and 26 Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs) this year.

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie and Collins Nweze

He said a cumulative sum of N2.75 billion had been paid to 80,059 insured depositors of 186 closed MfBs as at August 31. On payment of liquidation dividends to uninsured depositors of the closed DMBs, he said a cumulative sum of N2.03 billion had been paid as liquidation dividend to 250,497 depositors with claims in excess of the insured limit as at August 31. He said it is also gratifying to note that the NDIC had declared a final dividend of 100 per cent to deposi-

tors of 14 closed DMBs as at December last year, indicating that all the depositors in those closed banks had fully recovered their deposits. Similarly, the corporation paid liquidation dividend of N2.03 billion to 453 shareholders of Alpha, Pan African and Nigeria Merchant Bank as at August 31. He said NDIC, as a deposit insurer, has also been responding to all emerging issues in the global financial system, particularly financial literacy, consumer protection, financial inclusion, sustainable banking and extension of deposit

Visa partners FirstBank, others

•Ibrahim insurance coverage to depositors of non-interest banks.

Africa global economic hub, says Access Bank CEO

HE Group Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Herbert Wigwe has described Africa as a hub of international economic evolution where tremendous innovation in financial services, telecoms and natural resources have become important drivers of global growth. Speaking yesterday at the 2014 Institute of International Finance Africa Financial Summit held in Lagos, he said the forum is part of that paradigm shift in the economic trajectory of Africa. “A congregation of some of the best financial minds, financial sector leaders and economic policy makers from across Africa and beyond are gathered here today and I am proud to welcome you all to this important gathering,” he said. The bank chief who spoke on ‘Mobilising Resources for Investing in Africa’ said more wealth has been created in Africa in the last decade than at any other time in history. “Across the continent, we have seen a steady drumbeat of

democratisation and political reform as governments are, with some exceptions, starting to provide the environment for businesses to thrive. They are creating greater feedback from and accountability to their citizens; ensuring that people’s needs are known and addressed,” he said. He said from Rwanda to Nigeria, there has been a steady increase

HE Ecobank Group and the Africa SME Champions Forum have partnered other coorganisers like the African Guarantee Fund and AfricSearch to ensure a successful hosting of over 300 Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) in Dakar, Senegal. The meeting was an avenue for over 300 ambitious SME companies in Africa who are interested in growing their businesses. The forum which the bank said creates an opportunity to identify Africa’s next great success stories, is the first di-

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

168.45 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.39 1,676.09 1,118.84 121.30 121.16 1,117.51 1.2241 1.2855 0.8238 1.0941

O/PRICE 42.30 169.74 29.76 3.04 3.78 0.60 4.00 0.89 0.74 0.51 0.57

C/PRICE 46.63 187.11 32.80 3.34 4.15 0.63 4.20 0.93 0.77 0.53 0.59

CHANGE 4.33 17.37 3.34 0.30 0.37 0.03 0.20 0.04 0.03 0.02 0.02

LOSERS AS AT 13-11-14

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

RETAIL DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM (RDAS) Transaction Dates 20/10/2014 15/10/2014 13/10/2014 ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Inflation: October

8.1%

Monetary Policy Rate

12.0%

Foreign Reserves

$37.9b

Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

Tenor

11.00

10.917

12.464

12.393

13.281

13.201

140.60

.205

5.16

4.70

-0.46

CHAMPION

8.98

8.34

-0.64

14.110

10.51

9.88

-0.63

50.01

-2.63

458.96

-24.15

CCNN

11.55

10.99

-0.57

UBCAP

1.89

1.80

-0.09

ETERNA

3.38

3.22

-0.16

CUTIX

1.48

1.41

-0.07

15-10-14 Rate (%) Rate (%) 17-10-14

Overnight (O/N)

UBA

52.64

16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

-0.17

483.11

N17.2 trillion

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

1.66

SEPLAT

N16.42 trillion.

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

Amount Offered in ($) 500m 350m 350m

Amount Sold in ($) 499.93m 349.97m 349.96m

CBN EXCHANGE RATES November 13, 2014

$83

Money Supply (M2)

1.83

FLOURMILL

Nigeria Tony Okpanachi said the inaccessibility of finance is a major obstacle to small business growth and development, with only 20 per cent of African SMEs receiving a credit line from financial institutions. He emphasised that “this forum aims to assist viable SMEs by providing them opportunity for easy financing. The partnership reaffirms Ecobank’s commitment to support small and medium-sized businesses and further enable the SME sector play a critical role in the socio-economic development of Africa.

DATA BANK

AIRSERVICE

FBNH

rect access platform to finance for the SMEs. It is also providing them the opportunities to enjoy master classes, customised consultancy service that brings together high-quality experts and a mentoring programme. According to the organisers, the idea of the SME forum is to bring together at a single location an entire range of tools, networks and services dedicated to SMEs to allow them to put in place, on their return, the methods shared by the community of the Africa SME Champions Forum. Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank

Bid Price 167.01 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.33 1,676.09 1,118.03 120.45 120.30 1,116.70 1.2163 1.2855 0.8089 1.0941

GAINERS AS AT 13-11-14

SYMBOL CADBURY DANGCEM UNILEVER IKEJAHOTEL TRANSCORP RTBRISCOE REDSTAREX CONTINSURE NEM ROYALEX OMOSAVBNK

stead it is a place of democratic as well as economic growth.” Wigwe said that despite these achievements, Africa does still face challenges that are not peculiar to the continent, but the changing global financial landscape has made it ever more important that Africa catch up as quickly as possible with the rest of the world or risk being left behind.

Ecobank, Africa SME Champions partner

Name

• UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

in security of title and the rule of law; investment in regulatory and physical infrastructure to ease the doing of business; and a low-debt, low-inflation macro environment. He said: “All of these factors together help to build the first pillar of the African investment story – no longer is this the continent of coups and generals; in-

ISA Inc. has announced a partnership with the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, First Bank Nigeria and the Youth for Technology Foundation (YTF). The partnership, it said, will provide women entrepreneurs in Nigeria with an innovative, mobile technology solution to promote financial inclusion in the country. “This initiative is part of our strategy to help increase the financial awareness of more women in our society. Through this collaboration, a total of 2,500 women entrepreneurs will become agents in the retail network of FirstBank Nigeria. These agents in turn will bring branchless banking and mobile financial services to at least 75,000 Nigerians living in rural and underserved communities,” General Manager for Visa in West Africa, Ade Ashaye said. He said lack of access to financial services and capital is a significant barrier for women entrepreneurs in the country. Empowering women by bridging this gap will translate to the empowerment of the country as a whole as women tend to invest a significant proportion of what they earn back into their families’ health and education, making a lasting difference.” FirstBank will provide the women with training on the mobile banking products while YTF will provide capacity-building entrepreneurship training to help them gain comprehensive knowledge and information on subjects that are core to their development as entrepreneurs. “We believe access to financial services is essential for progress. Financial inclusion is a bridge that allows formerly isolated members of an economic system to join in and become contributing participants. Improving access to financial services and electronic payments is a critical building.

FOREX RATES

R-DAS ($/N)

157.29

Interbank ($/N)

162.75

Parallel ($/N)

167.50

Currency

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

US Dollar

154.78

155.78

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

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

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS

Jonathan has abandoned Nigerians, says APC Continued from page 2

“You heard excuses for failure to fix basic infrastructure, arrest unprecedented levels of corruption and halt the march of terrorists daily inching nearer all of us. You heard promises that sound familiar because you have heard them all before since his six (6) years as President. “Do not give the party that has savaged Nigeria in the last 16 years an opportunity to finally finish off our dear nation. The PDP cannot deliver on any of the same promises it has failed to honour in over a decade and a half in power.” The APC National Chiarman assured that the party will do things differently if elected into power in 2015. He said the party was aware that the battle to dislodge PDP from power will be tough but it is relying on the votes of Nigerians who are already frustrated with Jonathan’s administration. He said: “In a few months, our great party will make history. It will defeat an incumbent administration at the federal level, and secure most of the governorships and federal and state legislatures. “It will then proceed to change the way our nation is governed, by restoring the valued requirements of governance, which are rooted in supremacy of the law, integrity and competence of leaders, and compassion and fairness in the treatment of the people. ” Our party stands united and confident in its ability to lead Nigeria to a new beginning. I call on all Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora to embrace our vision of a great nation that works for all of its citizens; a nation that guarantees security for all its people; and a nation able to generate and allocate its resources in the just and equitable manner intended by God who so graciously blessed us with so much. ”We are under no illusions about the magnitude of the task our party will be called to embark upon. It will be a massive challenge. But we draw strength and inspiration from the knowledge that the overwhelming majority of Nigerians recognize that a continuing PDP administration cannot guarantee Nigerians a future of prosperity, dignity and peace. “We, in the APC, are in touch with the sentiments, aspirations and concerns of our people. To those who are now living and dying in occupied parts of our nation; to those who are displaced and living in refugee camps because their homeland is occupied by terrorists, to those who are in fear of the imminent occupation of their homeland by savage elements, we say help is on the way and positive change is near. ”Our party will chart a new course of recovery and regeneration for our nation. We will set very high standards of respect for the rule of law, such that our nation will never again experience the unprecedented scale of impunity that has been the central feature of this PDP led administration.” Oyegun, who pledged to make the briefing regular, pleaded with Nigerians to give APC the opportunity to effect changes in the country from 2015. He said: “To all Nigerians, I say, our party, the APC, will change Nigeria for good. We have the men and women who can do this because they passionately believe in Nigeria and are aggrieved by the 16 years of wasted opportunities under the PDP. “We have developed the ideas and strategies to achieve this. We have the faith and confidence that this can be done in short order. “We are resolved never to give

up on Nigeria, or to abandon the imperatives of ensuring that the democratic process translates into better lives and opportunities for the present generation and a solid foundation to build an even better life for future generations. “The only people who will fear, or resist, the type of change we represent and promise, are the tiny blood sucking minority who benefit from Nigeria’s current social and economic degradation. “It is with a sense of deep patriotism that we in the APC appeal to Nigerians to join us, because we need to work together to make Nigeria the great country it should be. “I want to call on all Nigerians to work with us, support us and vote for our candidates in the forthcoming elections. APC governments at all levels will be your governments, and we assure you that you will feel the difference in the very first few months of our administration at all levels. ”We assure our brother African nations who agonize over the decline in Nigeria’s leadership that our nation will rise again and give Africa the exemplary leadership it deserves. We assure the International Community particularly, our friends, that the APC treasures their friendship and treasures their concern for our nation. “ We assure them all that we will rebuild our capacities to operate at the global level as a responsible and responsive pillar of global governance, a beacon of hope for all mankind.” While advising Nigerians to collect their Permanent Voters Cards, Oyegun asked the international community to be vigilant on 2015 poll. He said APC is determined to respect the integrity of the electoral process. He said: “I therefore appeal to all Nigerians to endeavour to collect their Permanent Voters Cards, and use them to vote out the PDP and vote in the brighter, safer and more prosperous future, which the APC represents. I call on INEC, the security agencies and other institutions of government to discharge their responsibilities courageously, fairly and firmly. Their prime responsibility is to the nation. “I appeal to the international community to remain vigilant and continue to work with all Nigerians to ensure that the 2015 elections are credible. On our part, we remain committed to respecting the integrity of the electoral process, and we will discourage its subversion and will resist vigorously the use of violence, official or otherwise, to prevent the triumph of the will of the people.” Oyegun gave insights into what the APC will offer the nation although the details will soon be unfolded to Nigerians. He said: “Once in office, our party will govern with openness and transparency, and every kobo belonging to the public will be judiciously utilized and meticulously accounted for. We will call corruption by its name and fight it with the vehemence it deserves. We will restore the faith of the public in the necessity for leaders to live honestly and lead with vision, competence and compassion. ”An APC Federal administration will unite all Nigerians by eliminating policies and sentiments such as religion and ethnicity which the PDP has deliberately exploited to divide the nation. We will restore the faith and confidence of Nigerians in each other, and ensure that no Nigerian anywhere suffers any disadvantage on account of his or her religious affiliation or ethnic origin. We will uphold the rule of law and protect the human rights of all our citizens. ”The defense of the territorial

integrity of our fatherland and the protection of the lives and property of all who live within our borders shall be a non-negotiable priority of an APC Federal Government. “We will reclaim every inch of Nigerian territory, and liberate fellow citizens who, under the current dispensation, are resigned to life as captured and conquered citizens. “Our armed forces will be massively motivated and given the necessary manpower and materials to enable them perform their sacred duty of protecting our country. Our people will be mobilized to support and honour our men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to ensure that we are all protected.” The APC chairman condemned the Nigeria Police and the Department of the State Security Service for withdrawing the security details of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal. He also faulted the recent release to Capital Oil Ltd all its assets hitherto lawfully acquired by AMCON because the proprietor of the company is one of the coordinators of the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria(TAN) which is at the forefront of Jonathan’s reelection campaign. He said:”We will ask Nigerians to vote for genuine and enduring change; change in the manner young Nigerians see their future; change in the attitude of leaders, from oppressive and arrogant leadership, to leadership anchored on respect for rule of law, fear of God and deep commitment to the service of the people; and change from a life of insecurity and daily threats to our lives and property to a life of maximum security and peace. “We see this impunity on display in the administration’s tyrannical reaction to the exercise of the right of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal to change his party. “The Police arrogated to itself the power of the judiciary to interpret the Constitution and withdrew the security details of the Speaker. The illegal and high-handed action by the Police in removing the security details of a sitting Speaker of the House of Representatives has attracted strong and widespread condemnation from within and outside Nigeria. “The Department of Security Services, a service which was hitherto insulated from partisan politics have also been directed and has similarly withdrawn its operatives from the Speaker. ”We see another manifestation of the PDP administration’s fondness for impunity and its disturbing tendency to cuddle corruption, in the recent release to Capital Oil Ltd all its assets hitherto lawfully acquired by AMCON as a result of its said involvement in the fuel subsidy scam. “It is not a secret that the proprietor of Capital Oil is the coordinator or convener of the widely derided Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) that is at the forefront of the obscene and doomed campaign for the reelection of President Goodluck Jonathan. A great nation like Nigeria should not be run with such crass disdain for decency, common sense and the rule of law.” Party leaders at the session were the Deputy National Chairman( North), Senator Lawal Shuaibu; the Deputy National Chairman (South), Engr. Segun Oni; the National Secretary of APC, Mai Mala Buni; the National Publicity Secretary, Alh. Lai Mohammed; National Treasurer, Alh. Bala Mohammed Gwagwawa; the National Vice Chairman(South-South), Prince Hilliard Etagbo Eta.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

FOREIGN NEWS

THE NATION FRIDAY, JULY 25, 2014

Ebola clinical trials start in W. Africa

LINICAL trials to try to find an effective treatment for Ebola patients are to start in West Africa next month. The medical charity Medicins Sans Frontieres, which has been helping lead the fight against the virus, says three of its treatment centres will host three separate research projects. Meanwhile, Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has lifted the state of emergency imposed in the country. She warned “this is not because the fight against Ebola is over”. It marks the progress being made in the country, where the weekly number of new infections is falling. In a radio address yesterday, she told the nation that night curfews would be reduced, weekly markets could take place and preparations were being made for the re-

•Liberia lifts emergency amid progress opening of schools. One trial involves using the blood of recovered Ebola patients to treat sick people in the Guinean capital Conakry. Two antiviral drugs will be trialled in Guinea and an unconfirmed location. “This is an unprecedented international partnership which represents hope for patients to finally get a real treatment,” said MSF spokeswoman Dr Annick Antierens. The Ebola outbreak is thought to have infected more than 14,000 people, almost all of them in West Africa. The death toll has risen to 5,160. The first trials are due to start next month. Initial results could be available in February 2015. The World Health Organi-

zation announced in September that experimental treatments and vaccines for Ebola should be fast-tracked. Two experimental vaccines, produced by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and the Public Health Agency of Canada, have already been fast-tracked into safety trials. The GSK vaccine is being tested in Mali, the UK and the US. Research on the Canadian vaccine is also under way in the US. The three latest trials are: • At the Donka Ebola centre in Conakry, Guinea, led by the Antwerp Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), involving convalescent blood and plasma therapy - using blood from recovered patients containing antibodies that successfully fought off the virus to boost the

patient’s immune system • At a site yet to be officially announced, funded by the Wellcome Trust and led by the University of Oxford, using the antiviral drug brincidofovir. It works by interfering with the virus’ ability to multiply. Up to 140 consenting patients will take the tablets twice a week over a two week period, and survival rates will be compared to those before the trial • In Gueckedou, Guinea, led by the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm), using the antiviral drug favipiravir. Around 400 people participate in the first trials and they will be extended to other centres if the early results are promising.

•Protesters set fire to vehicles outside the Guerrero state congress building in the city of Chilpancingo, yesterday. The protests still continue over the 43 Mexico missing girls who are now being alleged to have been killed and burnt to ashes by some policemen and gangs. Over 70 have been arrested. PHOTO:AP

Comet lander Philae now stable

HE robot probe Philae that made a historic comet landing is now stable after initially failing to attach to the surface, and is sending pictures. Efforts are now being made to locate the precise position

of the European Space Agency probe on the surface. Engineers say it may have bounced hundreds of metres back off the comet after first contact, before finally settling down. It is hoped Philae can gain

insights into the origins of our Solar System. It has already sent back the first images ever taken on the surface of a comet. They indicate that the lander is sitting at an angle - perhaps on a slope, or maybe even on

its side. But the team is continuing to receive “great data” from Philae. Esa’s Rosetta satellite carried Philae on a 6.4 billion-km (4bn-mile) journey to Comet 67P/ChuryumovGerasimenko.

Israel won’t cooperate with UN Gaza probe

HE Foreign Ministry announced Wednesday it would not cooperate

with the UN inquiry into the summer Gaza conflict, and rejected an entry request issued

by three members of the investigative committee seeking to gather evidence, leaving them stranded in Amman. The decision not to cooperate with the probe was approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman. The UN team has been in Jordan for several days, awaiting Israeli permission to

cross the border, Channel 2 reported. It said the members were using the time in Jordan to interview “witnesses” there. The Foreign Ministry said the decision came about because of the UN Human Rights Council’s “obsessive hostility” toward Israel and “one-sided mandate.” It also cited anti-Israel statements made by inquiry head William Schabas as a factor in the move.

Myanmar : Obama ‘confident’ of political change

S President Barack Obama has said he is “confident” about the political change process in Myanmar during a visit to the country - but added that “the work is not yet done”. His comments followed a meeting with Burmese lawmakers, including opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Mr Obama is in the capital Nay Pyi Taw for the East Asia summit. Earlier, in an interview, he accused the government of backsliding on reforms. In 2010, Myanmar held elections which replaced military rule with the military-backed civilian government of Thein Sein. Since then, many political prisoners have been released, media restrictions have eased and Ms Suu Kyi has been released from years of house arrest.

Turkish protesters attack U.S. sailors

URKISH nationalist protesters have assaulted three US sailors in Istanbul, trying to put hoods on them and chanting “Yankees go home”. The protesters, who posted a video of the attack on an ultra-nationalist website, also threw red paint and chased the sailors down a street. The sailors returned unharmed to their ship, the USS Ross, which was docked nearby, a US military spokesman said. US officials condemned the attack, but said it appeared to be a one-off event. Turkish police arrested 12 people in connection with Wednesday’s incident, but later released them, local media reported. The group, members of the nationalist Turkish Youth Union, were told they could still face charges of insult, injury and breaching laws on public protests, the Dogan news agency said. Just before the assault, one of the protesters shouted in English at the sailors: “Because we define you as murderers, as killers, we want you to get out of our land.”

EXPRESSO

Iwuanyanwu’s 2027 prognosis: debasing Ndigbo •Continued

from back page

Wow! What baby babble! The grist of his thought is that Ndigbo are donkeys required for hefting difficult political garbage in Nigeria. Two, there is a simplistic supposition that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the only party in the land destined rule forever. Third: that the turn-by-turn; chop-i-chop syndrome of his class as opposed to merit and performance will continue to hold sway. Lastly, how could an elder tell us that if one man does not have a second term of office the country would perish? If that be the case let it perish by all means! No individual or group must be allowed to hold the country to ransom; not from the north or south. In the first place, it is most discomfiting to us that an Igbo leader of Iwuanyanwu’s age and standing still holds an appointment. Which contemporary of his from other ethnic groups holds such silly appointments; as chairman of board of a third generation university at that? Then again, why does he keep demeaning and aggravating us? Even if it were meet that Ndigbo would wait in serfdom till the next 50 years to be president, we do not need him telling that to the world. Again, one is sorry to note that Chief Iwuanyanwu may be living in a time warp. Ndigbo, the real Igbo people have moved on and left him behind with his power-mongering ilk. The average Igbo has been living his life in spite of government, irrespective of Nigeria’s oil wealth and without Aso-Rock. These commodities are the stock-in-trade of Chief and his fellow rapacious elite; since after the war, they have sat atop our commonwealth making sure it only trickles down to the people. When therefore he speaks about Ndigbo vis-à-vis the presidency, he speaks only for himself. Tell us something else: We, Ndigbo want to hear his opinion on the dilapidated federal roads in the southeast like the Enugu/Onitsha and the Enugu/Port Harcourt highways. He should tell us why there is no power generating plant in the entire southeast? We want to know his thoughts on the situation in the northeast where every third person killed must be an Igbo. How many Ndigbo have been killed, how many injured and displaced? How many luxury buses burnt and how many businesses damaged? What succor for his kinsmen, innocent victims whose only crime is that they are law-abiding citizens? Why on earth is our elder telling us to seat pretty and be canon-fodder in this sham republic? Can’t he see that this is a lost republic where cowards and opportunists who live off Aso Rock and want power by all means have thought their ill-bred rascals how to make bomb? Once they have started hiding bomb under the hijab, it becomes a pastime, they never stop. It’s a historical fact. Why should Ndigbo remain in this republic of murderous people who serve bomb for breakfast, serve bomb for lunch and serve bomb for dinner? If we had elders, they should have reclined into the ime obi… Igbo wu Igbo unu mu kwa anya? Lee nu ariri! There is no doubt that Ndigbo suffer leadership vacuum since after Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Ikemba Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. There is need for the current crop to rise to the occasion. Governor Theodore Orji, chairman of Southeast Governors’ Forum has been quietly at work on the Igbo cause since he ascended the office a few months ago just as his predecessor Governor Peter Obi tried to do. Senator Uche Chukwumerije has also represented Ndigbo well as one of the true Igbo whose strident voices ring loud from the exalted chambers of the Senate. But there is need for a rebirth. Ohaneze Ndigbo has become compromised and diminished thus the need for a new forum to lead the rebirth of Igbo nationalism, the Igbo state, the Igbo persona and the Igbo ethic in the emerging states.

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

NEWS ‘Stop killing our children, husbands’ From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

HE women’s wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) yesterday urged Boko Haram to stop killing children and husbands. It advised the sect to sheathe its sword for peace and development to reign in Nigeria. The group restated its commitment to seeking divine help to tackle the nation’s security challenge since human efforts to resolve the security problem appeared to have defied human capacity. The women addressedreporters at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat in Kaduna. They decried the spate of killings in the Northeast, saying the solution was in the collective efforts of Nigerians to pray for God’s help.

Police arrest woman for ‘stealing’

29-YEAR OLD woman, Love Ogar, from Cross River State, was arrested yesterday by the police in Kaduna for allegedly stealing three children from Hotoro village in Kano State to be taken to Onitsha, Anambra State. At the parade of the suspect at the police headquarters, police spokesman, Aminu Lawan, a Superintendent of Police (SP), said the police got a distress call from leaders of Nigeria Union of Road Transports Workers (NURTW) at Kawo motor park that a driver, who brought a woman with three children from Kano to Kaduna said he noticed a strange relationship between the woman, who claimed to be the mother of the children, and the children, because of the way they reacted to her attitude. Lawan said the woman could not give satisfactory an-

From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

swers to the questions the union leaders asked her. The spokesman this was the reason the police were called in. He said following her interrogation, she allegedly confessed to stealing the children from Kano and planning to take them to Abuja. Speaking with our correspondent, the suspect said her friend, who lived in Abuja and simply identified as Tina, contracted her to bring any goodlooking almajira for her with a promise to pay N350,000 for each child. Ms Ogar said: “When I got to Hotoro, I was inside ‘Keke NAPEP’ and gave each of them sweet and called them to follow me inside the ‘Keke’. They did and we went to Sabon Gari Motor Park where I boarded an available bus to Onitsha with

the children with the intention to stop in Abuja. “My friend, Tina, had been worried because she has been married for about seven years without children. That is why she asked me to get any almajira for her. “This is my first involvement in this. She has not even paid me any money; she only promised to pay when I deliver the children.” The father of the three children, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi, said his wife called three days ago that she could not trace the whereabouts of the children. Sanusi said since he knew his children would not wander about, he organised a search party for them. He said: “When I received the second call, I knew something serious had happened. I rushed to the house and informed my district head about the missing children. I can tell

you that for the past three days, I have not been myself. “I reported the matter to the police at Hotoron police station and they called me around noon yesterday (Wednesday) that a woman had been arrested in Kaduna with three children and that she was at the police command. I quickly asked my cousin to drive me down to Kaduna. Since I got to Kaduna, I found my children, Nafiu, six; Khalid, five and Abdul, four. “I am grateful to the police, the driver of the vehicle and members of the union for their vigilance. I don’t know where I would have started from, if the children had gone missing. I also advise people with such evil minds, like this lady, because surely Allah will expose them.” The command said investigation into the matter was on to fish out other accomplices.

Plateau governorship aspirant dies

GOVERNORSHIP aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State, Senator Cosmas Niagwan, is dead. The late Niagwan was said to have expressed interest in governorship race ahead of next February’s election. He died in Lagos during a visit, it was learnt yesterday. He was 75. The late Niagwan was a senator between 2003-2007. But the aspirant had reportedly not obtained the nomination form before he died although his posters had flooded Jos, the state capital. His former legislative aide, Mr. Gabriel Nkup, confirmed his death yesterday. Nkup said Niagwan died in his house in Lagos on Wednesday night. He said: “I spoke with his wife and she said that he did not show any sign of sickness, but went to bed and failed to wake up.”

Funeral for businesswoman

PROMINENT businesswoman, Mrs Omolabake Balogun, is

dead. The mother of Mr Bolaji Balogun, an architect and Director, National Universities Commission (NUC), Abuja, was also a community leader in Agbowa-lkosi, Lagos State. The late businesswoman was married to the late Mr Jeremiah Balogun of Uyin in Ekiti State. She was 83 years. A wake keep holds today at 9, ltun Oriwu Street, Olufuwa compound in Agbowa-lkosi. The burial will hold tomorrow at 10am at Baptist Church, 94, Ikosi Beach Road, AgbowaIkosi. Reception after each event will hold at the Baptist Primary School in Agbowa-lkosi.

•The late Mrs Balogun

•All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun (right), addressing reporters on the state of the nation in Abuja...yesterday. With him from left are: Former Ekiti State Governor Olusegun Oni; APC Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Deputy National Chairman, Northern Zone, Alhaji Shuaibu Lawal. PHOTO: NAN

Potiskum blast: ‘Hospitals won’t abandon victims’

OBE State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bello Kawuwa, has said the victims of Monday’s secondary school bombing will not be abandoned, despite the strike by health workers across the country. Bello was reacting to our correspondent’s enquiry on the fate of the victims as the health workers started their action yesterday, following the inability of the Federal Government to meet their demands in an agreement they

From Duku Joel, Damaturu

reached early this year. The commissioner said he had contacted the hospitals, adding that they assured him that the boys would be well treated, despite the strike. He said: “I am sure the strike will not affect the treatment of the pupils wherever they were admitted. This is because I have contacted the hospitals affected and they have given me the assurance that the in-patients, especially the pupils, will not

be discharged but would be adequately treated.” On how much it would cost the government to treat the victims, the commissioner said: “We cannot at the moment determine the true or actual cost of the medical bills due to the various levels of treatment requires for the victims. There are some who would require surgery and other things, even more serious or less. “...I have asked the hospitals to give the treatment that

is required and send the cost to us to compile and pay. As you are aware, that is the directive of Governor Ibrahim Gaidam. We have already set the process on. All the hospitals have agreed to this arrangement and everything is going as planned.” Kawuwa said some of the pupils had been referred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Dala, Kano State. Others, he added, were being treated at the Federal Medical Centre in Azare and Nguru.

Women suicide bombers are stigma to North’s women, says Aliyu

HE Chairman Northern States’ Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Niger State Governor Babanguda Aliyu has expressed concern that the security challenge in the country has taken a more dangerous dimension with women being used as suicide bombers. The governor spoke yesterday in Kontagora when he commiserated with the Emir and the residents on Wednesday’s bombing at the Federal College of Education by a female suicide bomber. A 300-level student of the college was killed in the

•Governor visits Kontagora over blast From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

blast. Aliyu, who expressed sadness over the attack, noted that the use of female suicide bombers was a challenge in the fight against terror. The NSGF chairman said the trend would also expose women in the North to unnecessary discrimination. But he was confident that security agencies would do their job well, adding that there were plans to

strengthen existing security in the state. Aliyu urged the residents to go about their businesses. The governor said Wednesday’s attack was meant to cause panic. He inspected the scene of the blast and condoled with the families and friends of the victims. The NSGF chairman expressed joy that the attacker did not achieve her mission.

Aliyu reiterated the need for vigilance, especially in “soft” target areas, such as schools and places of worship. The governor said policing should not be left in the hands of security agencies alone but should involve other people. When he inspected the impact on the scene of the blast, Aliyu noted that the bomber was heading to the crowded shopping centre, a few feet away. He advised the school authorities to relocate the shopping centre and strengthen security in crowded places.

Boko Haram: Niger suspends school congregation From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

HE Niger State Commissioner for Education, Danladi Abdulhamid, has directed public schools to suspend open congregations. The order came less than 24 hours after a female suicide bomber killed another female student at the Federal College of Education (FCE) in Kontagora, a major town in the state. The commissioner gave the order yesterday at Maryam Babangida Girls’ Science Secondary School in Bosso at an unscheduled visit. The visit followed the discovery of four men in “hijab”, the women’s veil. The men were suspected to be terrorists attempting to invade the hostel in the early hours yesterday. When the girls noticed the strange movement of the “women” around their hostel, they raised the alarm. This forced the invaders to drop their “hijab” and run away. Efforts by the male teachers to catch up with the fleeing suspects were unsuccessful. Policemen from a neighbouring were called in to provide security for the pupils. Parents, who heard of the incident, stormed the school. Addressing workers of the school yesterday, Abdulhamid said Governor Babangida Aliyu had directed that congregations, such as morning and closing assemblies or prayers, should be suspended until further notice. “The government has resolved to suspend all congregational activities in our schools for the time being. These enemies of the society are fond of attacking schools during such activities and we feel we should suspend it for now so that we can save the lives of our children and teachers.”

Kwara PDP has no anointed candidate, says chair

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said yesterday it has no anointed candidate among its 12 governorship aspirants. The party also said it had not zoned its governorship seat to any of the three senatorial districts. Although the party conceded that controversy had trailed its November 1 delegates’ election, it added that the poll was punctuated with “tolerable violence”. PDP State Chairman Iyiola Akogun told reporters in Ilorin, the state capital, that the skirmishes were being resolved. Six governorship and five House of Representatives aspirants of the party had protested alleged manipulation of delegates’ list in favour of a particular aspirant. He said: “I also want to allay the fears of all contestants that there is no anointed candidate in PDP. If we would anoint a candidate, we could not have allowed anybody to buy the form except the anointed person. If our ticket is meant for a senatorial district, we would not have collected money from 12 aspirants, knowing that they are not from the same senatorial district. Our candidate can come from any part of Kwara State.”

Military promises to retake territories Continued from page 2

leave us?” The Army Chief said that operational matters are never discussed on the pages of the newspapers. Sekibo asked Gen. Minimah to “just reassure Nigerians that the military is on top of the security situation in the affected areas”. The Army Chief insisted that he would not discuss security matters in the presence of the press. A member of the Committee, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, intervened, reminding Gen. Minimah that the press is an important stakeholder in the fight against insurgency. Sekibo promised to speak to reporters after the meeting. He did after about two and half hours of the meeting. Sekibo said: “You (reporters) were here with us when we started at about 1pm. Now it is about two and half hours. We have deliberated on the security issues affecting our country and the Chief of Army Staff has also responded on all the issues that were raised before him. “We are assured to inform our constituents that it will not go worse than what we have now. We believe from the charge we have given to them from tomorrow and perhaps the nearest couple of weeks, we are going to have better results.” The Chief of Army Staff said: “We had a setback in Bassa that resulted in loss of territories up to Mubi and painful though but we are working very hard to retake those territories. “And very soon we will reclaim those territories and indeed other territories that the insurgents have taken. “I want to continue to rekindle the confidence of Nigerians and particularly the ordinary Nigerians who have suffered the pain of this insurgency that the Nigeria Army will continue to do its best and strive to win this war and reclaim the lost territories.” Also yesterday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) expressed concern over the rate the nation is losing ground in the current war against the Boko Haram insurgents and urged the Armed Forces to fight to reclaim their honour. In a statement entitled “Reclaim Your Honour” by the General Secretary, Dr Peter Ozo-Eson, the congress said it believed in the capacity and resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces to contain the insurgents, while appreciating the challenges faced by them The statement said: “We acknowledge that this is not a reg-

ular war. We appreciate other challenges of our security forces among which are logistics, numbers, indiscipline, motivation and others. “We are, however, worried by the consistent loss of territory by troops that are supposed to be the pride of the nation to a band of insurgents, perhaps not more than a battalion or two, poorly trained and relatively illequipped but whose foremost strength is their resolve to fight! “It is saddening that all but half the Northeast, the size of many countries, is under the control of the insurgents. Our soldiers swore to an oath to maintain the territorial integrity as well defend the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Today that sanctity is being violated with ease, the land is being desecrated and the blood of the innocent freely flow. “Today, painfully, our armed forces have become the butt of jokes in not a few diplomatic circles as our soldiers have acquired for themselves the unenviable reputation of turning tail and becoming refugees at the slightest threat of a skirmish. “We are concerned about the preparedness of our dear country and its capacity to fight. We are worried about our vulnerability. We at the Nigeria Labour Congress feel hurt and pained by what we are witnessing. We are saddened and petrified by what seems to be the unravelling of a dark prophesy. “While our forces are retreating from the Boko Haram in various battle fronts, the sect has opened a new offensive, that of winning hearts in conquered territories. In our estimation, this makes more difficult the task of reclaiming these territories. Yet our forces must go forth with a single-minded devotion. “We want to see them reclaim their honour and dignity. But, beside this, they signed a pact with the Nigerian people to defend them with their blood. It was reason the citizens paid tax, made sacrifices as well as surrendered their right to bear arms. “At this point in time, we at the Congress still believe the setbacks are temporary and remediable. Accordingly, we urge them to liberate and hold those occupied territories forthwith. “We call on the government to avail our security forces all that they need to accomplish this task. We similarly urge our communities in the conflict area to build synergy with our security forces. This is no longer an in eternal security issue. Nigeria is at war. The body language and attitude of our leaders must show this. Let us all rise with one accord and fight Boko Haram. We can beat them.”

‘APC rattled by Jonathan’s declaration’ Continued from page 2

restrain the APC from holding its so called “Mega Rally” in Ekiti the very next day, May 21 in promotion of the gubernatorial campaigns of the then Governor Kayode Fayemi. The entire top hierarchy of the APC, its national leaders, governors and the Interim National Executive were in attendance. At the rally, the APC scarcely observed a minute silence in honour of fellow Nigerians mowed down in cold blood before charging the atmosphere with usual insults and loathing acts of insensitivity, speaker after speaker. “It will be recalled also that while Nigerians and the International Community applauded President Jonathan for proscribing the terrorist sect, Boko Haram, the APC released a statement on the 10th of June 2013, alleging that such an act was unconstitutional. This is the APC pretending away from the heinous crimes of the same terrorist organisation it once

sought protection for. “On the other hand, it is on record that President Jonathan and the PDP cancelled all scheduled activities on June 3, 2012 when the Dana Air crashed and declared a week national mourning. Unfortunately, the APC desecrated this as all its leaders converged on Kano the same week to celebrate a turbanning event, meaning that 163 souls that perished as a result of that crash were not important to the party. “All over the world, it is known that terrorists plan their evil activities to manipulate political events and policies and that the more you allow them space, the more dastardly and frequent they turn. If terrorists must be denied the publicity they crave so much for, it becomes the responsibility of all patriots in moments like this to work hard to prevent them from hijacking events or taking control of our destiny. Clearly, the APC lacks the political capacity to understand this matter of statecraft.”

CITY BEATS

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014 CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Police, residents end robbers’ reign

HREE among the four armed robbery suspects who allegedly laid siege to the Oke Odun in Shashi, a Lagos suburb, have been seized by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Lagos State Police Command. Residents said the bandits raided their homes, injuring victims and carting away money and other valuables. The suspects are: Chukwuemeka Bright Bardi (23), Dare Adetunji and Abraham Nsong, both aged 21. The fourth suspect, Joshua, is at large. A police source said the three suspects stormed a house on Salvation Street, on October 21, inflicted deep machete cut on their woman victim’s head and shot one of her daughters, Ann, in the leg. After injuring two other members of the house, they were said to have made away with money, phone sets and laptops. “They attacked them with a locally made pistol, pestle and kitchen knife, which police recovered,” the source said. After the attack, the victims reportedly raised the alarm and the community’s vigilance men cordoned off the area, leading to the ar-

•The suspects ... yesterday By Ebele Boniface

rest of Dare and Abraham. Their arrest led to that of Chukwuemeka, The Nation learnt yesterday. Chukwuemeka claimed that he did not follow the other two suspects on the

operation that fateful day, but Dare and Abraham said he lied. Abraham said Dare broke the woman’s head, adding that Joshua that shot Ann in the leg. Dare, who confessed that

he had participated in robberies four times, added: “The first operation fetched me N15, 000. The fourth operation failed. But since I started robbery, I have not shot or killed anybody.”

Fashola’s wife lifts the visually impaired

HE wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola, has demonstrated her commitment to giving succour to the less-privileged, with the donation of a vocational training workshop for the visually impaired under their umbrella group, the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB). Commissioning the project at the Vocational Training Centre (VTC), Oshodi, she said the gesture was prompted by her desire to touch lives positively. She explained that the initiative was a fulfillment of

By Jane Chijioke

the birthday promise she and her husband, Mr Babatunde Fashola, made in 2012 when they visited the school. Mrs Fashola, who bagged the Honourary Membership of the FNSB, pledged her support to the organisation, even after the expiration of her husband’s tenure. The society’s chairman, Mrs Biola Agbaje, said the workshop was renovated 10 years ago by some philanthropists from the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, had remained in bad state. “For many years now, our

students have been taught in the school’s common and dining rooms and even under trees in our compound. Two years ago, God heard our prayers and directed the first lady of Lagos State, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola to us. She actually jump-started what we are seeing today. She arrived quietly that first day she visited us. On the governor’s birthday on June 28, 2012, the first couple spent part of the day with us here at the VTC. Our fortunes changed that day. Before leaving, the governor made a handsome personal dona-

tion and pledged to complete the renovation,” said Mrs Agbaje. She said the governor had also secured scholarships for all the students in the school through the state scholarship board since 2013. Fashola, she added, pledged to finance a new hostel that would accommodate about 120 students. She promised effective utilisation of the workshop. One of the students, Mr Ebong Essienkan, thanked Mrs Fashola and sought her support in creating job opportunities for them.

‘I’ve stopped sleeping with my wife’

55-year-old resident of 5, Osunnike Street, Alakuko, a Lagos suburb, Kazeem Busari, has prayed the Alakuko Customary Court to dissolve his 13-year-old marriage to his wife, Rasheedat, because “she is troublesome”. He also alleged that she constantly fights him over trivial issues. Busari, a plumber, said: “I married her solely because my first wife died and I felt my daughter needed motherly love. But since we got married, I have not known peace. She enjoys attacking me and my children. I have never gone on a successful business trip because I always receive distress calls from home. It is more than a year since I stopped sleeping with her because of her incessant fights. I have informed her relations about her behaviour. Since she can’t stand the sight of my children, I don’t want her anymore.” However, Rasheedat, 42,

By Basirat Braimah

told the court: “My husband barred me from working when we got married. His children virtually complain about everything I do in the house. Even when I tend to correct my step-daughter, she

wouldn’t listen. In fact, the last time I sent her on an errand, she slapped me. His children are mean. They regard me as a slave, not their father’s wife. I also don’t want the marriage anymore because of his children.” The marriage was sealed

under the Native and Customary Law, is blessed with a one-year-old child, Lateef. The court’s President, Chief Awos Awosola, ordered the parties to maintain peace and be lawabiding. He adjourned the case till November 27 for further hearing.

•From left: Representative of Lagos State Governor, Otunba Fatai Olukoga; Chairman of the occasion, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Senator Gbenga Ashafa; Asiwaju Olorunfemi Bashorun and Miss Ganiat Adekoya, a beneficiary, while receiving a sewing machine during the senator’s Mega Empowerment Programme at Ikorodu Town Hall, Lagos yesterday. PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN

THE NATION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014

TODAY IN THE NATION

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.9 NO.3,032

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

S Oke-Ogun converges on Okeho this weekend, the Psalmist comes to mind: What is Oke-Ogun that thou art mindful of her?What matters about Oke-Ogun? Surely,Oke-Ogun indigenes would respond that everything matters, following the Yoruba injunction that a true born doesn’t point in the direction of his/her birth place with the left hand. As a left-handed soul, I have always wondered why this instruction singles out the left hand. It’s an unkind reminder of the teasing that I experienced growing up and the merciless reaction of my otherwise dedicated teachers to any attempt to write with the left.The wise words simply mean that it is morally and socially unacceptable to ridicule or mock one’s origin. But why identify the left with ridicule, mockery, moral incongruity, etc.? So, I got distracted a bit in the last paragraph because I still have some scores to settle, not just with my former teachers and righthanded childhood friends, but also with the source of that old wise-crack. But that task has to wait for another day. Oke-Ogun matters to its indigenes for every reason that a source of being matters to a human being. Without the source, one never is. And when one is, the source also ensures that one doesn’t just exist but thrives. The effort to raise, sustain and promote the welfare of everyone of its own has been a collective one for the villages and towns that make up Oke-Ogun.Appreciating this explains the voluntariness of our communal ethos. I enjoyed the benefits of the sacrifice of others. Therefore, I am obligated to sacrifice for others. It is a Yoruba, indeed, an African ethos. But if Oke-Ogun matters to indigenes, why does it or must it matter to others? Why, for instance, must government be cognizant of Oke-Ogun? Why must the development of the area matter as a policy priority of any government, including federal, state and local?Is it because of the land? Or is it the people? A self-interested government that doesn’t give a damn about the people still has a very good reason to care about Oke-Ogun, considering the potentials of the land to yield bountiful output. It is for good reason that OkeOgun earned the title of the food-basket of the old Western Region and why it was chosen as the home of the Oyo North Agricultural Development Project (ONADEP). The land is well suited for all year-round crop-farming with a moderate investment in irrigation and it is certainly well-suited for livestock-farming with its expansive savannah. A simple matter of institutional commonsensical self-interest, you’d say. But commonsense is a rare com-

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Oke-Ogun matters

•Ajimobi

modity in this clime. Not so fast, a government sympathiser responds. “We discovered oil and it is more profitable and so we went for it. We intended to use oil revenue to develop the land and the people.” Besides the obvious fact that this gives too much credit to governmental thinking regarding costbenefit analysis, it is also true that in the more than 50 years of neglect, neither the land nor the people has been an object of focused development efforts. ONADEP became OYSADEP. Ikerre Gorge Dam, initiated more than 30 years ago to provide water and irrigation for the entire region has become not simply an eyesore but also a danger of immense proportion to the entire zone. There have been dire predictions by experts that a slight breach of the dam can trigger a Noah-like flood that may consume the land and the people from Iseyin to Kishi. Meanwhile, the Southwest became dependent on the North for its food supply. Does anyone care? What is it about the people that should matter to anyone, especially government? First, they, like others for who government cares a

GBO, emasculated and castrated:

For Ndigbo, the valiant race by the Niger River, Southeast of Nigeria, this must be the worst time in their history. Not even during the genocidal Biafran war which saw the structured extermination of over a million of their kind were they so emasculated and seemingly castrated as now. Once a sturdy leg of the tripod that made up the entity known as Nigeria, today Ndigbo are relegated, unclassified, made anonymous and irrelevant in the political equation of today’s Nigeria. Examples abound to corroborate this proposition and we will never be tired of reciting them: Ndigbo have never headed the government of Nigeria since independence in the true sense of it; Ndigbo are the largest tribe in the land and pre-independence censuses and population projections upheld that fact. But by a cruel sleight of hand and through dubious post-independence censuses, the population of Ndigbo of the Southeast zone of Nigeria has been finagled with and made inconsequential. The rest of Nigeria is at peace with itself to downgrade Igbo population for the purpose of domination. But a nation can live a lie only for so long. There are more examples of deliberate decimation: Igboland is one of the most densely populated areas of the country yet by a criminal political machination, the least number of states and local government areas were created in the Southeast zone, thus ensuring that the most people get the least of the national resources. For instance, the three Northwest states of Kano, Jigawa and Katsina have more local councils than the

lot, are human beings, who gave up on individual and group egoistic pursuits, which only breed anarchy because government promised to coordinate their activities and moderate their interactions. They had earlier established their credential as brave and courageous people who did not brook tyranny. Recall the Iseyin and Okeho peasant riots against British colonial officers in 1916. Colonialism gave up and republicanism replaced it with its promise of life more abundant. Oke-Ogun embraced the new ideology, with absolute loyalty to the progressive dispensation. But cycle after cycle, government after government, theirs have been an unfortunate case of uncompensated cooperation and unrequited loyalty. Education is the greatest leveller. But in spite of the pre-eminence of the West in education, the first High School in Oke-Ogun was established by the Church in 1958. That was Shaki Baptist High School. Government only established secondary modern schools and teacher training colleges in the area. That was how many Oke-Ogun indigenes ended up as trained teachers. Still they excelled! Professor Dibu Ojerinde is one of many who, with hard work and perseverance, successfully made lemonade out of the lemon that place of origin handed them. Communal spirit, hard work, dependability and progressive inclinations are embedded in the DNA of these people. But there is more. I have not encountered a more self-effacing people for whom the politics of self-promotion is alien; and this, in spite of those other positive qualities, could be their albatross. The world is an unrepentant exploiter of innocence. Politics is a game of number, we are told. What is also true is that if you have the numbers but not the strategy to take advantage of it, you are sure to be passed over. And being passed over has been the experience of the OkeOgun collective since the beginning of times. They have been loyal to a fault. But loyalty to

STEVE OSUJI

EXPRESSO

steve.osuji@yahoo.com

•Columnist of the Year (NMMA)

Iwuanyanwu’s 2027 prognosis: debasing Ndigbo And the winner is… EXPRESSO!

AST Saturday in Owerri, Imo State, yours truly won the Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) Alade Odunewu Prize for Columnist of the Year, 2013. It was particularly exhilarating to have lifted the bronze gong man before a cheerful crowd of my people in Owerri. I owe it to the greatest Writer of all, God and to you dear reader for always charging me on. A body of four articles were entered and since none has been singled out by the assessors, I will try to publish one or two here in the weeks ahead. The articles are: “One billion women…put down by men,” “The Malabu malfeasance,” “The Agric. Minister’s rice conundrum,” and “Five things Gov. Fashola aren’t getting right.” This award will be considered a call to arms – to shoot sharper for you. entire Southeast. You can guess what this translates to in terms of revenue allocation. Since after the civil war, population censuses and state and local government creation have been deliberately deployed as weapons of socio-economic stagnation of Igboland. The

vicious effect of these obnoxious state policies targeted at Ndigbo ring true in areas of revenue allocation, federal appointments; enlistments in the armed and paramilitary forces to name a few. Such is the injustice a people have had to endure in a polity called

one implies that others are spared bothering or caring about you. Worse, absolute loyalty doesn’t compel a passionate desire to please on the part of the object of loyalty. Without a cold calculation of political self-interest by a people, there is no warrant for a politician to make any serious effort to gratify. This takes me to the recent Oke-Ogun tour by Governor Abiola Ajimobi. First, I think it is a good thing that the Governor took time to tour the area. He must have opened his eyes to experience the many challenges of life that the people experience on a daily basis. He passed through the Iseyin-Okeho road, abandoned by the Federal Government for more than a decade. I have information that when the state government made a move to reconstruct the road, a Federal Government contractor preempted it by moving to site. The people are being swindled again and they remain silent. The governor must have seen the agony of life without clean drinking water over the entire area. And as I mentioned above, Ikerre Gorge Dam, almost completed and then abandoned since the 1980s, has the potential of supplying drinking and irrigation water for the entire area. The governor saw the dearth of higher institutions, the paradox of an area good enough to produce the country’s JAMB Director but not good enough to have a federal or state university. Second, the interaction with the people, including traditional rulers, office holders and political activists was commendable. They made their requests on the basis of their needs and the governor listened and made promises. Third, the important question now is “what next?” That government relocated to Oke-Ogun for three days was a good gesture. But there must be a follow-up and there must be some tangible results. And this cannot be left in the hands of politicians alone. Indeed, it is an opportunity for the organisers of Oke-Ogun Day to take over and challenge the Governor to make good on the promises that he made to the people. Oke-Ogun doesn’t need a third-party to liaise between her and the government. It only requires a strong determination to lay the ghost of a self-loathing and self-denying attitude to life. Oke-Ogun has learnt the hard way that politics is nothing but self-regarding calculations of quid pro quo. To receive, you must be prepared to give, and to succeed you must calculate wisely. It is the responsibility of its indigenes to impress on a world that appears disinterested that Oke-Ogun really matters. •For comments, send SMS to 08111813080 the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Heaping salt on Igbo injury: In the midst of all these, one is terribly troubled to hear people who are supposedly Igbo leaders speak in manners that seem to heap redhot coal on the injuries of Ndigbo. Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu is one of such Igbo leaders who have become disconnected and disoriented about the situation of his kinsmen in the current Nigerian milieu. He has over the years missed the opportunity to emerge as a veritable voice of Ndigbo, having never at any turn, upheld the interest of Ndigbo. Speaking to newsmen in Owerri, Imo State, last weekend, he showed the stuff he is well known for when he suggested that Ndigbo should wait till 2027 before they can aspire to Nigeria’s number one seat. According to Iwuanyanwu, if the elections of 2015 are not properly handled, situations could deteriorate to a point that it may be difficult to control. He therefore appealed that, “My people of the southeast who are legitimately demanding for the presidency of Nigeria should subjugate this ambition to the unity, peace and stability of Nigeria by supporting (the) south-south.” He said further: “After south-south has completed its tenure of eight years, the presidency will naturally go to the North…After eight years of the North the presidency will come back to the south. When it comes to the south, it will automatically be the turn of southeast since Southwest and South-south have taken their own turns.” •Continued

on page 58

•For comments, send SMS to 08111526725

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